Tips please for going to a wedding reception with a toddler.

[LaTristesse]

So we're going to a wedding reception in a few weeks with DS, 14 mo.
We're getting there at 7 and aim to leave at 10. DS usually goes to bed at 7.30, so do we keep him up late or take a buggy for him to sleep in (not sure if he will!)?
I know it's only one night but I'd like to try and minimize the disruption to his routine if possible.
Does anyone have any tips for this kind of situation? How to prepare him, how to best get him into bed when we get home (undress him or sleep in his clothes) ... That kind of thing.
Thanks

Tbh. It would be easier to get a babysitter for the evening and have fun at the wedding without worry.

The whole thing is a major disruption of his routine, so anything goes that works on the day, it won't have long term consequences as it's a one-off.

I'd have the buggy as an option - you don't want to be stuck carrying an unconscious child. He may fall asleep, or may decide to stay up, I'd not force the issue and respond to whatever message he's giving you.

If he's awake before you leave, change into PJs, he will probably fall asleep on the way home then you can just transfer him straight into bed. I've always found that's the best route with mine.

And enjoy your evening :)

Hi LaTristesse - I took DS to a wedding reception at a similar age. Take LOADS of snacks (kept him quiet during the ceremony). I took DS off to a quiet room (I think it was the disabled loo at the venue) about half an hour after his usual bedtime (it was just before pudding so I missed part of the meal) and did milk, PJs and a quick story. I then put him down in his buggy (it lay flat), gave him his blanket and teddy and put a sarong over the top to block out the light and walked him around for about 5 minutes. He went out like a light and slept through a ceilidh - he actually slept better there then he usually did at that stage in his own cot . Not sure if any of that is helpful but basically I just stuck as closely to his usual routine as I could and then put him down to sleep in his buggy and it worked. Good luck :)