What’s most important is that you make that final decision clear. Too often will brides-to-be receive an RSVP only to see that Sandy and Tony from down the road have replied for the two little ones as well. So if children are not invited make it distinct to avoid any awkward phone calls or possible confrontations. Although it may seem tough to exclude, it's perfectly ok to only invite children who are part of your or your fiancé’s family. Just because your niece is the flower girl and you’re your cousins the pageboy doesn’t mean every kid from the block should be fishing for an invite. So if you’re afraid of getting muddy handprints on your frock or having to set up a sandpit next to the buffet then simply say no to PG13 and tell your guests to leave the tiny tots at home. People will understand, and sometimes you simply can’t afford to accommodate the extra fingers and toes.

On the other hand, having the kids at a wedding doesn’t have to mean setting up a daycare. After all, kids can provide those sorts of Hallmark moments you can’t prepare in advance. A wedding is a joyous occasions for those of any age, and if properly catered for, you won’t have to worry about the kids interrupting the festivities. So, keep them entertained, supervised and happy so you don’t freak out on the day.

Try to seat the parents and their children together at one table or at tables close to each other. While the idea of a kid’s table sounds ideal, it can also lead to an unsupervised disaster. An even better way to manage the kiddie clan is to hire a chaperone. This way, someone else can deal with the boo boo’s and bathroom trips while you and their rents can kick back with a glass of wine or three.

You also need to be weary of the demands that come with providing for children at a wedding. Smoked salmon with a side of truffle and greens probably won’t go down so well with the youngsters, but at least the party pies and mini pizza’s will save you some dosh.  As for a child’s short attention span, be sure to have another room for them to play in or some activities set up in advance to keep them busy.

So when deciding on who makes the cut, keep an open mind. It’s a decision that will suit your wants and needs, and not those of the guests.