How to Politely Request an Adults-Only Wedding or No Kids Event

When it comes to wedding etiquette, creating a “no kids” or “adults-only” atmosphere at your wedding or event can be communicated with grace and respect. Here are some ways to communicate this on your invitations while ensuring your message is clear and polite. For a full guide on wedding invitation etiquette, visit our post here.

1. Wording on the Invitation

A simple statement on the invitation itself is the most direct approach. Here are a few examples:

• Formal Wording:
  • “We respectfully request an adults-only celebration.”
  • “Please join us for an adults-only reception following the ceremony.”
  • “Due to limited space, we kindly ask that this celebration be for adults only.”
• Casual Wording:
  • “Let’s celebrate! Please join us for an adults-only evening.”
  • “We hope you understand our wish to keep this an adults-only event.”

This method works best if you want to convey the request clearly without needing further clarification.

2. Adding to the RSVP Card

Including the adults-only request on your RSVP card can reinforce the message without making it the focus of the invitation. You might write:

• On the RSVP Card:
  • “We have reserved ___ seats in your honor” (leaving a specific number for adults only).
  • “Adults only reception to follow.”

This wording gently reminds guests of the request while keeping the focus on the RSVP.

3. Use the Invitation Envelope

Addressing the envelope specifically to the invited adults only is a subtle way to set expectations. Use formal names without including “and family”:

• Examples:
  • “Mr. and Mrs. John Smith” (instead of “The Smith Family”)
  • “Ms. Sarah Johnson and Guest” (without adding “and Family”)

This approach lets guests know that the invitation is extended only to the listed individuals. For a complete guide on titles, plus ones and how to address invitations, visit our guide here.

4. Including a Note on Your Wedding Website

A wedding website is a perfect place to include additional information, especially if your wedding will be an adults-only event. Adding a short FAQ section or polite note about the preference can clarify for guests:

• On the Website:
  • “We have chosen to make our wedding a day for adults only. We appreciate your understanding.”
  • “Due to venue space limitations, we kindly request no children at the event.”

This is especially helpful for providing a reason and explaining the request if needed.

5. Consider a Reception-Only Adults Policy

If your ceremony welcomes all ages but you’d prefer an adults-only reception, clearly outlining this difference on the invitation can work well:

• Example:
  • “Join us for a family-friendly ceremony, followed by an adults-only reception.”

This approach allows you to include younger guests for part of the day while gently enforcing the adults-only policy later in the evening.

6. Add a Note about Babysitting Options

If you anticipate guests may need assistance with childcare, you can add a brief note indicating nearby options, if available:

• Example:
  • “For your convenience, we have a list of recommended local babysitters.”

This helps guests feel supported and acknowledges the extra effort involved in attending an adults-only event.

Final Thoughts

Communicating your preference for an adults-only event can be done tastefully with a simple note on your invitation, RSVP card, or wedding website. By focusing on clarity and respect, you can convey your wishes while helping guests feel appreciated and comfortable.