Weddings are about celebrating with the people you love, and for many couples, that includes children. From flower girls and page boys to nieces, nephews and close family friends, little guests are often a big part of the day. Catering for children at a wedding is just as important as the adults.
But when it comes to planning a wedding, catering for children at a wedding can feel like one more thing to worry about. What will they eat? Do they need their own menu? How do you keep them happy without overcomplicating the day?
The good news? With a little planning (and the right caterer) catering for children doesn’t have to be stressful at all.
Do You Need a Separate Children’s Menu at a Wedding?
In most cases, yes – and parents will thank you for it.
Children don’t always want (or enjoy) scaled-down versions of adult meals. A dedicated children’s menu means food that’s familiar, comforting and appealing. It helps to avoid untouched plates and hungry little guests.
A separate children’s menu can also be more cost-effective. Children under 10 are often charged at a reduced rate, making it easier to cater for them properly without stretching the budget.
What Makes a Good Kids’ Wedding Meal?
The key to successful wedding catering for kids is keeping things simple, recognisable and well-balanced.
A good children’s wedding meal should be:
- Easy to eat – no complicated sauces or presentation
- Familiar – dishes children already know and enjoy
- Thoughtfully prepared – good quality food, just child-friendly
Popular options often include cheeseburgers, pizza, pasta dishes, chicken, fish, mini roast dinners or picnic-style boxes. These can still feel special and in keeping with your wedding style, while ensuring children are comfortable and happy.
Children’s Meals or Half Portions of the Adult Menu?
Not all children have the same tastes and flexibility is important.
Younger children usually benefit most from a dedicated kids’ menu, while older children or confident eaters may prefer half portions of the adult dishes. Offering both options allows parents to choose what suits their child best and helps everyone feel included at the table.
This approach works particularly well at family-focused weddings where children span a range of ages.
Planning for Dietary Requirements and Allergies
Just like adults, children may have dietary requirements or allergies, and these should always be catered for with care.
Whether it’s vegetarian, vegan, gluten-free or allergy-specific meals, clear communication ahead of the wedding allows your caterer to plan safe and suitable alternatives. This gives parents peace of mind and ensures every child is looked after properly on the day.
Keeping Children Happy Beyond the Meal
Food is only part of the picture. Weddings can be long days for little ones, so small, thoughtful touches can make a big difference.
Ideas to consider include:
- Child-friendly canapés during the drinks reception
- Simple activity packs or colouring sheets at the table
- Fun desserts or sweet treats as an afternoon pick-me-up
When children are settled and content, parents are free to relax and enjoy the celebration too.
How the Right Caterer Takes the Stress Away
Catering for children at a wedding doesn’t need to be complicated, especially when you work with a caterer who understands family celebrations.
At Thomas the Caterer, we’ve spent years helping couples create weddings that feel welcoming for guests of all ages. From bespoke children’s menus and flexible portion sizes to carefully planned dietary options, we’ll help you design a catering plan that keeps little guests happy and parents relaxed.
If you’re planning a wedding with children on the guest list and would like expert advice on your menu, we’d love to help.
Get in touch with our team to discuss your wedding catering and find out how we can make catering for children completely stress-free. If you have a date, check our availability on our homepage.
If you don’t have a confirmed date yet but would still like to start talking all things food, you can email us on [email protected]