Natalia Ramos – Kids at Weddings
Have you ever wondered what really happens when kids are invited to weddings? Are couples and guests able to enjoy the celebration or are some missing out? What does it look like to intentionally include kids so everyone has a memorable experience? In this episode, I chat with Natalia Ramos about why curating an engaging space for children is more than just putting a babysitter in the room and how understanding each child’s needs can elevate the whole event. Find out what planners, venues, and couples need to think about early on and discover practical tips for making sure both kids and adults have a great time.
Listen to this new episode for strategies on including kids at events so parents can relax and everyone can enjoy the wedding day.
About Natalia:
Natalia Ramos is the founder of Natt’s Treehouse, a luxury wedding childcare company specializing in creating professional childcare experiences for weddings and special events. A former teacher with over 15 years of childcare experience, Natalia helps couples, planners, and families create celebrations where every generation can be fully present and enjoy the day. Based in New Jersey, she serves weddings throughout the Tri-State area and beyond.
Contact Natalia:
Website: www.nattstreehouse.com
IG: @nattstreehouse
Tiktok: @weddingbabysitter
Summary
In this episode, I sit down with Natalia Ramos, founder of Nat’s Treehouse, to explore how to thoughtfully include kids at weddings. Natalia Ramos draws on her education background to create more than just a babysitting service, offering curated spaces and activities that engage children and allow parents and guests to fully enjoy the festivities. She explains the consultation process she uses to understand each family’s needs, how she adapts for various ages and special needs, and why she avoids relying on screens or video games.
Natalia Ramos also shares practical tips for planning, handling challenging behaviors, and creatively setting up kids’ spaces in different types of venues. Whether you are a planner, a wedding professional, or simply planning an event with kids in attendance, this episode offers actionable advice to make the day enjoyable for guests of all ages.
If you have any questions about anything in this, or any of my podcasts, or have a suggestion for a topic or guest, please reach out directly to me at [email protected] or visit my website Podcast.AlanBerg.com
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View the full transcript on Alan’s site: https://alanberg.com/blog/
What do you do about kids at the wedding? Well, listen to my next guest and find out. Hi, it’s Allen Berg. Welcome back to another episode of the Wedding Business Solutions podcast. I am so happy to have Natalia Ramos on to talk about kids at weddings.
I’m doing good. Thank you for having me, Allen.
We were talking to each other at the Knot Gala, the 30th anniversary gala, which I was invited to because I was there in the early days—not the earliest days, but pretty early days. You were telling me about what you do with Hire the Wedding Babysitter. It says that right behind you on the sign there. So tell me, what do you do?
Well, I believe that what we do is definitely more than just babysitting, which is a huge misconception. I believe that the soul of what we do is to help couples, families, and guests go through the wedding the way that they envision it by having the kids and their guests have a wholesome experience at the wedding. That’s where we come from. That’s what we do. We watch the kids, we entertain them, we curate a space for them that allows them to be kids in a controlled environment while also letting the guests enjoy the rest of the wedding.
Okay. And that wouldn’t fit on the sign behind you. That was a lot.
Exactly.
So that’s why we fit it in with just “the wedding babysitter.”
Which is interesting because you said it’s more than babysitting, but how do you say that in a short way? So let’s roll this back. How did you get started helping families by taking care of kids at weddings?
Well, it all started because my background is in education. I was a teacher for 12 years back in Colombia. After moving here, I was looking for a job as a babysitter, and I found an ad that said, “I need a babysitter to watch my kids at a wedding.” I thought, “I could do that, but I can do it better.”
In Latino culture, all the kids are always invited to parties and events like this. They’re included, but they’re not accounted for. That’s what I noticed, and I found a hole in the system. I saw it as an opportunity to create a specific service for kids to actually enjoy the wedding while allowing the rest of the guests and the couple to enjoy it as well.
So that’s interesting. Is this all over Latin America? If there’s an event, everybody comes no matter how old or young?
Yeah, everybody comes. And what you find at the end of the wedding or party is kids who are tired, hungry, and mostly sleeping in chairs.
I’ve seen those pictures.
Yeah, definitely. We have pictures like that.
I’ve been to some weddings that had kids. My cousin got married for the second time, and her grandchildren were there, as young as four. Her father was there too, and he was 92 at the time. So you had this huge age range. The kids were there for the ceremony, and then I didn’t really see them afterward. I don’t know what the plan was, but I think one of the parents had to stay with them. That means the parent isn’t enjoying the party, right?
Exactly. They miss parts of the wedding, or another family member gets put on babysitting duty—a grandparent, an aunt—and they’re missing the whole point of the wedding.
So when someone contacts you about this, how does the conversation go? They probably contact you because they think they need a babysitter. Your sign does say that. Although Nat’s Treehouse sounds much more like a fun space than just babysitting. So how does that conversation usually unfold?
People come in with different ideas of what they actually want, so we go through a consultation process. We work on their vision—not just for the kids, but for the entire wedding experience and how the kids fit into it.
Some couples want the kids there only for the ceremony and not the reception. Some don’t want them there at all. We figure out what their vision is, what their needs are, and how we fit into that.
What do you find in terms of age? I understand not wanting a three-year-old there all night because they’re going to be exhausted. Is there a certain age where it’s okay for them to stay longer?
Mostly kids who are older than 12 are allowed to stay for the reception because they’re able to fit into that type of social event.
For younger kids, we decide which parts of the day are best for them. We’ve worked with children as young as four months old. Actually, next month I’m booked for a wedding with a two-month-old baby.
Wait, next month? So that baby’s only about a month old now?
Exactly. When we had the consultation, the bride was still pregnant. Obviously, they didn’t plan it that way, but we’re here for that.
Oh, so it’s the couple’s child.
Exactly.
Depending on the ages, we curate the experience. For older kids, we create a playroom with toys and activities. For younger children, we create a cozy space where they can relax, nap, and eat comfortably.
Older children might attend the ceremony and then transition into our play area during cocktail hour and stay there through the reception.
Are you with them during the ceremony?
Sometimes, yes. We help them walk down the aisle, wait until they’re done with their role, and then bring them back with us because ceremonies can be long. Young kids often can’t stay quiet or engaged the whole time.
Yeah, like a two-hour full Mass.
Exactly.
How do you handle such a wide range of ages? You can’t entertain toddlers and ten-year-olds the same way.
We’re very intentional about that. Before the wedding, we learn everything we can about the children—their interests, dislikes, allergies, comfort items, what frustrates them, and how they calm down.
Then we curate the space according to age groups. We also staff accordingly. We don’t put toddlers and older children together with just one or two caregivers. We assign caregivers specifically for younger children and others for the older kids.
Older kids enjoy games, crafts, role-playing, and group activities. Babies need comfort, sensory toys, and cozy areas for naps and meals.
Let’s bring up the elephant in the room. Video games—yes or no?
No.
So what do you do with the ten-year-old who’s used to staring at a screen all day?
We set expectations early with the parents. We explain that we want the kids engaged with the activities we’ve worked so hard to create. Movies or video games are our last resort.
We encourage parents to prepare their children by framing it as an opportunity to spend time with other kids and enjoy something different. At the end of the night, when everyone is tired and we’ve exhausted our activities, then we might put on a movie—with the approval of the couple and the parents.
Okay. Here’s the next one. How do you handle the brat?
One thing we have to understand is that weddings are completely different environments for kids. They become overstimulated very easily.
As childcare professionals, we’re trained to recognize the early signs before a tantrum happens. By anticipating those triggers, we can often prevent meltdowns.
If one does happen, we remove the child from the situation, get down to their eye level, talk calmly, let them breathe, and use the comfort tools and strategies the parents have shared with us.
Do you also care for children with special needs?
Absolutely. I have team members with specialized experience, and we discuss those needs during the consultation so we’re prepared.
We also bring sensory toys and calming resources that benefit many different children, not just those with special needs.
So the whole idea is that the kids enjoy themselves while the parents enjoy themselves too.
Exactly.
Do you ever have to go get the parent?
Yes, although it’s rare. We don’t want a child to reach the point where they’re miserable and only want their mom.
Usually, if that’s likely to happen, the parents tell us ahead of time. They’ll say, “At some point, this child may become overwhelmed. If that happens, come get me.”
I imagine every venue is different. You’re curating a space, but not every venue has an extra room.
That’s true. We stay flexible. We often use one of the getting-ready suites, usually the groom’s suite if it’s available. We ask for it to be cleared before we arrive so we can set it up for the children.
Not every venue has two getting-ready suites either. What’s the strangest space you’ve had to use?
Probably the smallest one. It was at a brewery in Brooklyn. The event space was basically one long room with the ceremony and reception all happening there.
We managed to create a space that didn’t interfere with the flow of the wedding. Parents could still keep an eye on their children, and everything looked intentional rather than like something thrown together at the last minute.
The aesthetics matter to us. We want our setup to feel like part of the wedding.
So you didn’t have to bring in pipe and drape or anything?
No.
I’ve seen inflatable rooms that could almost create a play space inside a venue.
I actually considered tents and similar ideas while developing the business, but I didn’t want them to clash with the overall aesthetic and feeling of the wedding.
What would you suggest to planners, venues, DJs, photographers, and everyone else listening? This conversation really has to happen early, doesn’t it?
Absolutely.
What if you show up and nobody planned for the kids? Any advice?
It’s no secret that kids are going to be kids. If children are invited, just keep that in mind.
If possible, create some sort of controlled environment with simple activities. Coloring pages, Play-Doh, bubbles—kids love bubbles. Those things won’t keep them entertained all day, but they can definitely help create a smoother experience.
You’re still not going to stop the little kid from walking down the aisle and eating the flower petals.
Exactly.
I love those photos of the little boys dressed like Secret Service agents with sunglasses and earpieces. They’re just too cute.
They really are.
Do you only do weddings?
No. I also do other events. I was recently booked for a christening for twin boys.
The idea is to serve any adult-centered event where kids are invited but not always considered, like mitzvahs, anniversary parties, and similar celebrations.
Right. The same concept applies. How do we include the kids, let the parents enjoy themselves, and keep everyone engaged?
Exactly.
You came to this country, you had this idea, and you made it into a business. How did that happen?
Like many small businesses, it started as something I did on weekends while it grew. But from the beginning, I always envisioned it becoming something much bigger than just weekend weddings.
It took a lot of research and learning how to build and grow a business. Every day brings new challenges that help me create better systems and protocols.
My first wedding came through the family I worked for as a nanny. Their reaction was incredibly encouraging, and that opportunity showed me what this business could become.
There’s the lesson for everybody. Keep your eyes and ears open because sometimes there’s an opportunity right in front of you.
Now that it’s a business, though, are you at every event?
That’s the goal—to eventually have multiple teams. We’ve been training our sitters and lead sitters so every event receives the same level of professionalism and service.
Ultimately, I’d like to be more in the leadership role instead of attending every event personally.
For now, though, I’m still at most of the weddings. I do have my team handle some hotel babysitting services, but I personally attend most weddings and special events.
When you’re building a business, it’s like starting with a little raft. Eventually you get to a canoe, then a motorboat, and eventually you’re the captain of a ship with people running the engine room while you’re steering the vision.
Exactly.
Are your caregivers all teachers?
Not all of them, but they all have childcare experience—whether as nannies, babysitters, or in similar roles. I assign them based on the depth of their experience.
And because you work with such a wide variety of children, you probably need bilingual staff and specialists for different needs.
Exactly.
You’ve definitely got your hands full.
I do.
Natalia, this has been fascinating. I love having guests who serve such a specific niche. It’s been a while since I’ve had someone on the podcast with such a unique specialty, so I’m glad we met at the Knot Gala. We were both dressed to the nines that night.
We definitely were.
I actually just took my tuxedo jacket to the cleaner because I always end up with makeup on the shoulder from all the hugs. Fortunately, my wife is perfectly secure knowing I always come home to her.
Of course.
Thank you for joining me and sharing all of this. You clearly have a passion for what you do. We need to get you a bigger sign that says, “More Than Just Wedding Babysitter.”
I think that’s it.
Maybe just add “Not Just” to the sign.
I’ll probably do that.
There you go.
Thanks, everybody, for listening. Look in the show notes if you’d like to learn more about Nat’s Treehouse. If you’re in the New York tri-state area and need this service, definitely reach out. Even if you’re outside the area, I’m sure Natalia would be happy to answer questions about how to make weddings more enjoyable for kids and their families.
Definitely. For sure.
Thanks, everybody.
Thank you.
I’m Alan Berg. Thanks for listening. If you have any questions about this or if you’d like to suggest other topics for “The Wedding Business Solutions Podcast” please let me know. My email is [email protected] or you can text, use the short form on this page, or call +1.732.422.6362, international 001 732 422 6362. I look forward to seeing you on the next episode. Thanks.
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Question
How can I make weddings enjoyable for guests with kids?
Tags:
#weddingplanning #guestexperience #children
Answer
You want everyone to have the experience they envisioned, including families with kids. I intentionally create spaces and activities for children so parents can enjoy the celebration without worry. It’s about curating an environment where kids can be themselves while adults relax and celebrate.
Takeaway: Make weddings memorable for everyone—including parents and kids.
Question
What’s the biggest misconception about hiring a wedding babysitter?
Tags:
#weddingservices #babysitting #myths
Answer
Many assume it’s just babysitting, but it’s much more. I craft experiences for kids, not just supervise them. It’s about creating a part of the wedding where children feel welcomed and engaged, allowing adults to truly enjoy themselves.
Takeaway: Great childcare elevates everyone’s experience, not just supervision.
Question
How do I decide which parts of my wedding kids should attend?
Tags:
#kidsatweddings #planning #weddingadvice
Answer
Start by thinking about the vibe you want. Some couples invite kids only to the ceremony; others include them at the reception if they’re a certain age. I ask what feels right for you, then design a plan that fits—maybe kids join part-time or have a dedicated space for the entire event.
Takeaway: Be intentional about when and how kids participate.
Question
What’s a common problem when kids attend weddings?
Tags:
#weddingissues #children #guestexperience
Answer
Too often, kids are invited but not considered in the plans. They end up tired, bored, or sleeping in random chairs, and parents miss out on the fun because they’re on babysitting duty. Intentionally including kids in your planning makes all the difference.
Takeaway: Don’t just include kids—plan for them.
Question
How do you keep kids entertained at a wedding, especially with different age groups?
Tags:
#weddingentertainment #children #eventplanning
Answer
I tailor spaces and activities to each age group—sensory toys and nap setups for babies, crafts and games for older kids. I also split staff so every child gets attention, and always collect info from parents beforehand to personalize the experience.
Takeaway: Custom experiences keep every age happy and engaged.
Question
Should I allow video games or screens for kids at my wedding?
Tags:
#screenfree #weddings #children
Answer
I avoid video games and screens as much as possible. Instead, I encourage engagement with activities and other kids. Only when everyone’s tired at the end of the night do I consider a movie, and always with parent approval.
Takeaway: Creative play beats screens—save screens as a last resort.
Question
How do you handle kids who act out or get overwhelmed at weddings?
Tags:
#childbehavior #weddingplanning #parenttips
Answer
Kids get overstimulated in new environments. I watch for early signs and act before a meltdown. When needed, I use comfort items or take them to a quiet spot and talk calmly at eye level. Prevention and empathy go further than discipline.
Takeaway: Anticipate needs—don’t just react to tantrums.
Question
Can you include kids with special needs at weddings?
Tags:
#inclusion #specialneeds #weddings
Answer
Absolutely. My team includes people with special education backgrounds, and we discuss every child’s needs during our consultation. We bring sensory toys and adapt our setup so all kids can feel comfortable and have fun.
Takeaway: Meaningful inclusion takes planning—but it’s always possible.
Question
What should venues or planners do if kids will be at a wedding?
Tags:
#venueadvice #planners #kidsatweddings
Answer
Have a controlled environment ready and think about kid-friendly activities—coloring pages, Play-Doh, bubbles—before the big day. Even simple activities make things smoother for everyone and prevent chaos.
Takeaway: A little preparation avoids big disruptions.
Question
How do you manage with limited venue space for kids?
Tags:
#venuechallenges #kidsatweddings #eventlogistics
Answer
I’m flexible—bridal or groom suites work great, but if space is tight, I can set up in any available spot. I’m mindful not to disrupt the flow or look out of place, so everything fits seamlessly with your event’s aesthetic.
Takeaway: Creative setups make the most of any space.
Question
What advice do you have for planners who forget about kids until the last minute?
Tags:
#weddingplanning #kids #mistakes
Answer
Don’t assume kids will just blend in. If the conversation never happened, be ready with coloring books, simple crafts, and bubbles. It’s not perfect, but a little effort can keep things from spiraling out of control.
Takeaway: Never let kid plans be an afterthought.
Question
How did you turn wedding babysitting into a business?
Tags:
#entrepreneurship #weddingbusiness #growth
Answer
I started by seeing a real need—kids were invited, but nobody planned for them. From there, I learned everything I could about running a business, built a team, and kept refining the process with each event.
Takeaway: Businesses grow from seeing—and filling—an overlooked need.
Question
Do you only offer these services for weddings?
Tags:
#eventservices #diversification #businessgrowth
Answer
No, I also do christenings, mitzvahs, anniversary parties—any event where kids are present but not the main focus. The approach is the same: include the kids so everyone has a better time.
Takeaway: Kid care is valuable at any adult-focused event.
Question
What do you look for when hiring childcare staff for events?
Tags:
#hiring #teambuilding #weddingbusiness
Answer
I prioritize childcare experience—nannies, babysitters, teachers—as well as specialties like bilingual skills and special needs training. I match team members to each event based on what the kids will need.
Takeaway: Build your team to match your clients’ unique needs.
Question
Is it okay if I’m not at every event as the business owner?
Tags:
#leadership #scaling #businessadvice
Answer
You can’t be everywhere if you want to grow. I focus on training my team to deliver the same standards so I can lead, not just show up at every event. Delegation is key.
Takeaway: Train others so your business can scale beyond you.
Question
What’s one simple activity every wedding with kids should include?
Tags:
#children #weddingplanning #simpletips
Answer
Bubbles. Trust me, kids love them and they’re a hit at every event. They’re easy, inexpensive, and keep little ones smiling and occupied—even for a few precious minutes.
Takeaway: Sometimes bubbles are all you need.
Question
Any advice for newly engaged couples considering inviting kids?
Tags:
#weddingplanning #kids #guestlist
Answer
Decide early how you want kids involved. Think about ages, which parts of the day are kid-friendly, and be honest about what you want your experience—and theirs—to look like.
Takeaway: Set boundaries early so expectations are clear.
Question
How do you keep activities looking intentional and stylish at a wedding?
Tags:
#eventdesign #kidsatweddings #aesthetics
Answer
I coordinate the kids’ area to blend with the wedding décor. The goal is for the kid space to look like it belongs—never like an afterthought or random addition.
Takeaway: Design kids’ spaces to enhance your event, not clash with it.
Question
How do you prepare for possible meltdowns from kids at an event?
Tags:
#weddingplanning #childcare #eventproblems
Answer
I talk to parents beforehand about each child’s triggers and comfort items. Open communication and prep let me prevent most problems—and if one crops up, I know who to alert and how to handle it fast.
Takeaway: Prevention and communication beat damage control.
Question
What’s your process for making sure every child feels comfortable and included?
Tags:
#inclusivity #childcare #eventplanning
Answer
I consult with families before the event to learn about each child—likes, dislikes, allergies, and comfort needs. This lets me personalize the experience and create a safe, welcoming environment for everyone.
Takeaway: Personalization is the secret to happy kids and parents.
