HELP! Need reception etiquette advice please!

This reminds me of my brother's rehearsal dinner. His wife's mom was mad because we told folks that kids weren't invited (as is traditional, only the kids in the wedding party were invited, not to mention dinner was pretty late, I think at ten or so) and a family friend or cousin or something that was a bridesmaid (I think) couldn't come to the dinner because she didn't have a babysitter (yet she knew weeks in advance that her kids couldn't go). She sat through dinner, not eating a thing, arms crossed, not speaking. I had to sit next to her, so it was actually peaceful. (Of course, she also called my parents, specifically my mom, high falutent (sp?) because of wanting to address the invitations correctly...)

Anyway, I think you could just explain the situation, and apologise for not making it clear on the invitation that it was adults only. As somebody else said, offer the name(s) of a babysitter(s) that she could use. Or if somebody else at the reception is having a babysitter watch their kids, maybe find out who, and see if the babysitter can manage two toddlers, or if the babysitter has a recommendation. I think she should understand, but then I also think that it would've occurred to her that maybe they shouldn't go.
 
*sigh*..Miss Manners would be so disappointed in a guest that would bring children that werent listed on the invitation. *shakes head*

Be polite, be firm. Dont be sorry, you are not the one in the wrong here. and good luck. Nothing wrong with saying that the childrens names werent on the invitation because they are not invited (Im assuming you didnt put them on there) and that the event isnt appropriate for children.
 
just ask her if her kids would like to see her naked! (then nonchalantly make it clear that she's the one expected to provide entertainment ;))
 
IMHO, anyone who knew Ruth's Chris is a classy place wouldn't think to bring the kids. Maybe they've never seen the ads in the airline magazines :)

I would PHONE (not write) them: "Sorry, we should have put 'adults only' on the invites".

If they are from out of town and HAVE to bring the kids, help 'em find a babysitter...not at your expense though.


--Don
 
I have to agree with the "I'm sorry I was not clear" message as a start. Then unfortunately you'll have to accept that no matter what you do, someone will complain about any function anyone plans (shrug). Offer to help find a sitter?
 
A lack of planning on their part does NOT constitute a problem on yours! She has more than enough time to find her own babysitter, you didn't get her pregnant, its not your problem. Enjoy YOUR wedding.
 
A lack of planning on their part does NOT constitute a problem on yours! She has more than enough time to find her own babysitter, you didn't get her pregnant, its not your problem. Enjoy YOUR wedding.

There's nothing you need to tell me, is there Hun? :lipssealedsmilie:
 
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