Kids dilemma

Sounds like you should just have a no kids party, with your kids being the exception.

View Quoted Comment I was hoping that would be acceptable

I would make it known that this is an "adults only" event. There's nothing wrong with it, and you've said you don't want your own kids there, except for the ceremonial stuff in the beginning. There will always be people who disagree with you, or don't like the decision you've made. You just have to be confident in knowing you are throwing the party you want, and inviting who you want. You can put it on the invitations, spread it by word of mouth, whatever works. Just be prepared for some guests not being able to make it due to lack of child care. Also be prepared to have guests ask you to make an exception for their kids. Don't do it. If you really don't want kids there, make it clear to everyone that kids won't be allowed. I think some parents will appreciate having a night out without their kids. If you give people enough notice, most will be able to find a sitter.

It's okay to not have children at your event, especially if you really want people to be able to focus their full attention on socializing with others and not wrangling their kids. How many children are spread amongst your group? If there are 10 or so, maybe considering hiring a couple of babysitters to help out the parents. A lot parents may decline if they find it difficult to find childcare, which is totally understandable.

Three babysitters for about 6 hours may not be all that expensive. $15 per hour x 3 babysitters = $45/hour x 6 hours = $270.00. That's not including food to feed the babysitters and the kids, so you can probably get this all done for about $400. That can also include some games or entertainment like setting up a laptop for them to watch movies, etc. That's not too shabby considering what a load off it'll be for you and your guests.

View Quoted Comment That's a good idea thank you! A gf did that during her wedding but kids stayed on site at the venue which i would be opposed to. I need to play w the idea.

View Quoted Comment You’re very welcome. I hope it all goes well for you.

I would have No Kids on the invite but have your children there. Would one of your parents take them when they sleepy? That is what we are doing. Our children are staying as long as they behave and then my parents will bring them home and put them to bed. Either way I would not have others children there.