Hellobee Boards

Could you have a relative or someone, like an in-law or close friend, come with you and babysit someplace close by (if there is a close by option, like if the reception is at a hotel, has on site accommodations, or a otel in easy walking distance)? Then you could pop back to feed your baby, but still attend the wedding.

@Greentea: Sometimes couples make exceptions for nursing mothers, if you ask maybe they would be understanding?

Does no kids necessarily mean no babies? It's not like your 7 month old is going to wreak havoc upon the ceremony. I would just ask for definite clarification. I was able to bring my baby to a 'no kids' event because he wasn't mobile and he was breastfeeding.

It stinks but I would just decline the invitation. If it says no kids, I wouldn't ask.

I would double check in a way that makes it really easy for her to say no, and then if it seems like a real no I would ask her if she could give you some leads on a trusted local sitter to watch him at the hotel. And I bet you'll have fun!

DH and I agreed if this situation were to come up while I was breastfeeding (wedding of someone I'm close to, far enough away that there's no sitter near), that DH would stay in a hotel with the baby during the wedding/reception and I would stay as long as I wanted to/could. I know that takes away the "date/night out" feel of it but for me, I'd want to see & celebrate with my relatives.

How about sending the RSVP asap. When your cousin receives he/she may be prompted to inquire directly to you or through your parent why you declined. This gives you the opportunity ( in a complete no pressure way for them) to explain you cannot attend without your LO. The cousin will either say ok or tell you to come and bring your child.

@Greentea: I don't think you can really KNOW that it wasn't his idea too...I hate it when people pin the blame on one person like they just hate kids or something =/

It's possible that there are a ton of kids on her side of the family and that it would blow their budget to invite them all. It's possible that the other kids are out of control and would cause problems. They could just not think it's going to be the kind of event that's appropriate for young ones. And unfortunately, it's not going to go over well for them to let your baby come but then tell other people that they can't bring their children. I guess what I'm trying to say is to not take it personally. I know that it feels personal to you because it's your child, but there's a million other factors you don't know about that could be coming into play here.

I wouldn't ask-- either accept and leave LO with someone for the evening/weekend or decline.

You could ask if he has a baby sitter recommendation. If he doesn't say you don't think you'll be able to make it!