Finding the right childcare can be one of the trickiest parts of planning a family-friendly wedding. Professional support is becoming increasingly popular, with more couples turning to wedding nanny services to keep little guests happy and safe
Founder Lorraine Shannon started Shannon’s Sitters to fill a gap she saw in the weddings and events industry for professional childcare.
As couples look for ways to create relaxed, inclusive celebrations, many are discovering how transformative dedicated wedding childcare can be.
Glasgow-based Shannon’s Sitters provides qualified wedding nannies and event childcare across Scotland, ensuring children are supported throughout the day while parents enjoy the festivities without worry.
Founder Lorraine Shannon shares what a wedding nanny actually does, the benefits for families, and why early planning and proper safeguarding matter when organising childcare for your big day.
Who is behind Shannon’s Sitters, and what inspired this wedding childcare service?
I’ve been working in childcare for almost two decades now, and have seen the joy that high-quality care brings to children and families.
I started Shannon’s Sitters to fill a gap I saw in the weddings and events industry for professional childcare. My goal was to give parents and guardians peace of mind, allowing them to fully enjoy their special day, knowing that their children are safe, supported and happy.
What are the key benefits of hiring a professional wedding nanny?
Some parents fear a nanny might take their child away from the experience; in reality, we make sure they’re involved in the day but without becoming overwhelmed by the excitement.
There’s a safety element people don’t always consider too. Yes, there will be family members around, but they’ll be enjoying the day themselves; having a professional, first-aid-certified nanny onsite means there’s someone focused entirely on the children’s wellbeing.
“Hiring a nanny isn’t about separating children from the wedding – it’s about making sure they can be part of it in a way that is safe, happy and relaxed”
“Parents often tell us that hiring Shannon’s Sitters was one of the best decisions they made for their wedding – not just for their children’s comfort and safety, but for the reassurance it brought to the entire day.”
What does a wedding nanny typically do on the big day?
We arrive early to set up a safe play area with toys and games and a quiet zone. Once the day gets going, we’ll manage meals or snacks, assist with routines (like naps) and provide flexible care as the schedule evolves.
As the evening winds down, we support little ones through their bedtime routines, finishing off with a comforting bedtime story to help them settle calmly and happily.
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What’s it like offering childcare at weddings – and what challenges can arise?
It’s so rewarding seeing children settle quickly, build trust with us and genuinely enjoy themselves.
Hearing from relaxed, grateful parents at the end of the night is always a lovely moment too. One challenge can be managing changing event logistics, but experience has taught us to be adaptable and prepared for anything.
"Snacks and activity packs can be a lifesaver – especially for the ‘boring’ bits, such as the speeches and dinner."
Do you have a memorable story from providing childcare at a wedding?
One that really stands out was for a couple who had a beautiful ten-week-old baby boy. The mum was understandably anxious about leaving her newborn, especially on such an emotional day.
After an initial welcome meeting and a few FaceTime catch-ups, it was lovely to see her relax and truly soak up every moment of her wedding day. I felt genuinely privileged to be trusted with the care of her little one.
What advice would you give couples thinking about booking wedding childcare?
Go for it! Hiring a nanny for your wedding isn’t about separating children from the day, it’s about making sure they can be part of it in a way that’s safe, happy and relaxed.
Every child is different, and we’re there to meet their needs in the moment, from managing routines to offering quiet time when it’s required. It’s important to book early, especially during peak wedding season, and to communicate any specific needs, such as medical information or the child’s favourite comfort items.
"Look for a provider who has strong safeguarding policies in place – it’s essential that all staff are PVG-checked, hold relevant qualifications and experience, and are paediatric first-aid-certified"
Lastly, the company should have public liability insurance and conduct a thorough risk assessment for each venue or setting to ensure it is a safe and suitable environment for youngsters.
Top tips for having a child-friendly wedding
Book early to secure the right event nanny for you and your family.
Our diary is already filling up with bookings as far ahead as 2028!
If you’re not hiring an event nanny, be sure to consider how children will get through the ‘boring’ bits, such as the speeches and dinner.
Snacks and activity packs can be a lifesaver.
Set up a small quiet area for tired little ones to retreat to, or consider adding this as part of your nanny package for extra comfort.
"Pre-event meetings are key, according to Lorraine, as they help build familiarity and trust."
