Planning a wedding is a full-time job. So is having a baby. Doing both at the same time? That’s superhero status. But if you’ve recently welcomed a little one and still have “tie the knot” on the calendar, we’ve got you covered.
This is your practical, parent-friendly, stress-busting guide to making your wedding magical and manageable—with a newborn in tow.
1. Keep it small (but mighty)
Big weddings are beautiful, but small weddings are magic—especially when you’ve just had a baby. A limited guest list means less chaos, fewer logistics, and more time to enjoy the moment. You’ll have space to breathe (and breastfeed), cry happy tears, and maybe even eat your dinner while it’s still warm.
Small doesn’t mean boring. Think intimate garden receptions, micro weddings at home, or a laid-back BBQ by the beach. With fewer guests, your budget stretches further—and you can focus on the people who matter most.
Related read: Should you have a small wedding? Pros, cons, and planning tips
2. Recruit a baby handler
Appoint someone you trust—your mum, your sister, your best mate—as the designated baby wrangler. This person is your go-to for all things nappies, naps, and mini-meltdowns. They’ll hold the baby during the vows, entertain them during speeches, and give you a break when you need it.
Pro tip: Choose someone who wants the job. Make sure they understand the responsibility and are happy to help without being glued to the bar.
Related read: The Knot: Tips for Bringing a Baby to a Wedding
3. Pack a baby survival kit
Create a mini kit with everything you might need: nappies, wipes, toys, extra clothes, dummies, snacks (for you too!), and any feeding essentials. Opt for quiet toys—Montessori-style rattles, soft books, or teething rings.
Have this bag close at hand throughout the day and assign someone to keep an eye on it. You’ll thank yourself later.
4. Prioritise recovery and rest
If your due date and wedding day are close together, be kind to yourself. Postpartum recovery varies wildly. You might feel amazing after a few weeks—or need several months to feel human again.
It’s perfectly fine to push the wedding date back. Or simplify your plans. This is your celebration; it should feel joyful, not exhausting.
Related read: What to expect after giving birth – and how to look after yourself
5. Choose a baby-friendly venue
Look for venues that offer private, quiet spaces—ideal for feeding, changing, or taking a break. If there’s a bridal suite, make it a mini nursery. Bonus points if there’s air conditioning and comfy chairs.
Set up a space where parents with babies can gather. There’s power in numbers—and solidarity in shared snacks and spit-up.
External link: Brides.com: How to Incorporate a Newborn Baby Into Your Wedding
6. Include your baby in the celebration
There’s nothing sweeter than a tiny guest of honour. Whether it’s a stroller ride down the aisle or a cameo in your engagement shoot, there are plenty of creative ways to make your baby part of the day.
Some ideas:
- Baby’s name on the invites
- A signature cocktail named after them
- Mentioning them in your vows
- A mini outfit to match your wedding theme
Just remember—they don’t need to be in every photo. A sleeping baby is still a star.
7. Embrace flexible scheduling
Forget rigid timelines. With a baby in the mix, flexibility is everything. Build extra time into every part of your day—getting ready, eating, even dancing. Inform your vendors about your new priorities: naps over first dances, cuddles over corsages.
A good photographer will work with your baby’s rhythm, capturing beautiful moments in between feeds and fusses.
Related read: Wedding Day Timeline with Kids: What to Expect and Plan For
8. Accept the mess—and the magic
Your baby might cry through the speeches. You might have to breastfeed in your wedding gown. There might be spit-up during the first dance. That’s okay.
You’re doing something incredible. Your baby will one day look back on these photos and see how loved they were, right from the start. This is real life—and it’s more beautiful than Pinterest-perfect ever could be.
Final Thoughts
Planning a wedding with a newborn isn’t easy—but it is 100% possible. With smart planning, a solid support system, and a flexible attitude, you’ll create a day that’s full of heart, laughter, and unforgettable family memories.
So breathe. Nap when the baby naps. Eat the cake. You’ve got this.
