Ultimately, the bride and groom decide whether children will be allowed at their wedding. As wedding consultant Laura Bauer of Elegant Events Ltd. points out, the reception is their first social event as a couple and sets the tone for how they're going to entertain guests in the future. With wedding costs skyrocketing in the last ten years and receptions becoming more formal, many couples choose to invite adults only.  Those who do should brace for not only friction but also defiance.

With more brides planning their weddings by long-distance, bridesmaids back home are throwing showers minus the guest of honor.