The Ways to Request No Children on an Invitation
You're hosting an event and would prefer that no children attend. Perhaps it is a formal function and alcohol will be present, or you're worried that children may be disruptive or distracting. Whatever the reason, it's your party and you get to set the rules. Being as straightforward as possible will help to avoid any misunderstandings or awkward situations that could result otherwise.
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Be Clear
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Include the words "Adults Only, Please" on your invitations if you sincerely do not want children at your event. This may put some people off and can go against more rigid etiquette which could result in some potential guests not attending. However, being passive and relying on the hope that the invitees will notice that you didn't add "and Family" after their names on the invitation envelope, will likely mean that children will inevitably show up at your event. Consider adding an explanation if you're concerned about offending anyone. Explain that space or funds are limited or that the presence of alcohol or adult-type entertainment places limitations on who you are inviting.
Change The Wording
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Altering the wording of your invitation can get the message across that it is not an event for children. "Please join us for an adult reception/celebration on Saturday, September 15" succinctly makes it clear who should and should not attend.
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Response Cards
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Wedding invitations almost always include response cards that indicate how many people will be attending. Even if your event is not a wedding, consider including response cards with the invitation you send out. You can have them printed with a blank line next to the words "Adults Will Attend" which sends the message that having children attend is not an option.
Alternatives
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Out of town guests with children present a unique problem when requesting that children not attend your event. Allowing certain people to bring their children and not others will only result in resentment and hurt feelings. However, if finances permit, consider securing the services of babysitters on behalf of guests who must bring their children along. Include appropriate wording to your invitations such as, "As this is an adults-only event, childcare services will be provided on site."
Also, setting up an event website is an effective and convenient way to have all of the pertinent information relating to the function such as time, venue and directions in one easily accessed place. There are many services available that offer free or low cost websites that are simple to build. You can indicate that the event is for adults only on the main page of the website and add the website address on the invitation.
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