Another note on this:
I'd say invite the kids, but hire a couple of neighbourhood teenagers who'd be interested in taking the kids off separately for their fun and games. That gives the parents time to socialize, and the kids don't end up bored stiff and squirmy. The kids will pop back in to the main party when they are interested, and can be off doing their own thing when they are not.
meat" loafOkay, all you vegetarian-mockers, here's your chance. ;-) I made the "meat"loaf at liked it, even my wife, who really really really prefers to eat meat at every meal. She said it hits...
We did this last fall at my sister's wedding, as many of her friends and family have small children. It was a small wedding (sixty people) in my parent's backyard. The kids were happy (depending on age) to spend time colouring, watching videos, reading, hanging out or off in the park with one of the teens and a soccer ball. (they had a most excellent pick-up game) We had one room designated as a nap and nursing area, and another as the official quiet space. The adults were happy to be attending a special event where they could relax without worrying about having to get home in time to relieve the babysitter.
We found our teens through my parent's church. They held their first aid certificates, had completed the local Y's babysitting course, and were into sports. It was a very satisfactory arrangement.
The menu sounds great.
Shirley Hicks Toronto, Ontario
