Wedding Etiquette for Encore Brides
Is this Marriage Mach 2? Wedding etiquette for encore brides has changed! Second weddings are usually smaller than first weddings – and more personal. Couples marrying for the second time are mature enough to know exactly what they want, and many have already done the big wedding thing and want to celebrate with close friends and family only. Besides, priorities are different this time ’round. Many couples have careers, homes and children, and no longer feel pressured by their families – or society – to throw a traditional wedding.
If entering into a second marriage, wedding plans don’t have to be less elaborate. Many encore brides and grooms want to throw big shindigs, and that’s just fine!
When planning a second wedding, keep the following things in mind:
- Wear a traditional white wedding gown if you want. The ‘no white’ rule no longer applies.
- Feel free to register for gifts. If you already have all the household items you require, consider setting up a honeymoon registry or having guests donate to your favorite charities.
- If divorced and want a church wedding, check with the cleric before your wedding date to make sure the church allows second weddings. If you get turned down, try a nondenominational minister, or go the civil ceremony route.
- Consider a destination wedding–always a popular choice for second weddings.
- If you have kids, involve them in the ceremony. This is a great way to get them excited about your nuptials.
Check out a few ideas for getting children involved:
- Encourage kids to offer input on wedding decisions, such as music, favors and anything else. This helps them feel included.
- If kids are artistic or love crafts, commission them to make favors, place cards, invitations, wedding programs, etc. Also have them help decorate the venue.
- A young daughter can be your flower girl or ring bearer, while a young son can serve as ring bearer.
- Preteens? Make them junior bridesmaids or junior ushers. Teens and adults can serve as bridesmaids, groomsmen, ushers, maids of honor or best men.
- Have a child give a reading or a speech if desired.
- If a child is plays an instrument have him or her perform during the ceremony or reception.
- Don’t force kids into anything. Ask them if they want to participate, and what they would like to do.
Keep these tips in mind and throw your dream wedding! Have fun!
