Expert says not wanting children at weddings is a class issue

March 6, 2025 16

Image: David Ferguson — Photo Credit: David Ferguson

Sociologist, Dr Mbali Mazibuko, says young couple’s decision to not want children at their weddings signifies social class mobility.

Mazibuku says the events that young people and the middle-class host speak to the growing consumer culture in the country which is evident by the well curated weddings and other social events they host.

She was weighing in on a fresh social media conversation on whether children should be invited to weddings.

The debate was sparked by a viral video of a traditional wedding in which children who are believed to be that of the couple are seen running around with one of them trying to lick icing off the wedding cake.

The couple in question seems to be unbothered by the busyness and perceived disruption.

Nothing I hate more than ill disciplined children😯😕🙌😥😥 pic.twitter.com/0rPxxRDWLI

— Amanda (@MMxolisii) March 3, 2025

While some believe this video is proof of why children shouldn’t be invited at such event, others dismiss such assertions as unfair.

Ironically, most of the people throwing tantrums under this tweet don’t have kids

They are all acting like they were the coolest kids growing up

It’s the same way ye all approach marriage while dating thinking it will be rosy upon rosy and get thrown off when your partner…

— Kunle (@Soulmedika) March 4, 2025

My strict side is telling me ndingababaxabulaaaaa…

My “soft parenting” side says maybe they’re neurodivergent or hyperactive nton nton, need proper diagnosis. 😭😭😭

Either way isandla sam singathawuzelaaaa

— Somelele🇿🇦🇿🇦🇿🇦📍 (@McFumbata) March 3, 2025

Dr Mazibuko says this conversation for her is about class as poor black families prefer modest weddings.

She adds that a nuptial ceremony for people within this social bracket are just about family and they might not have the resources to find a caretaker to look after the children during the occasion.

She emphasises that this also indicative of the tough economic circumstances people are living under.

The sociologist has also advised the young generation to communicate their desires for not wanting children at a wedding in a kind manner, especially, since not everyone is in the same economic capital as them.

Dr Mazibuko says when people consider inviting children, they must understand that they will get bored if there aren’t any fun activities planned for them.

When I was a DJ, kids at the reception were 👎. They take over the dance floor, you have to watch what you play and the adults can’t “be themselves”. They saw the wedding, now put them to bed! 😄

— El-Travs O’s Commander (@el_travs) February 20, 2025