You and your hubby decided to elope. Both of you have been married before, and you wanted to skip the wedding planning hubbub and stress that surrounded your first nuptials. There’s not a darn thing wrong with eloping with your true love, however if you’re “hearing it” from family and friends, you might want to throw a small shindig in honor of your marrage. Use the following tips for having a “wedding” after your elopement if it’s what you really and truly want to do.
Invite Wording
Since y’all are already married, feel free to skip the whole ceremony part and have a reception only. Request “the pleasure of [name’s] company” on the invitations and note that you have decided to celebrate your union with those closest to you.
Venue Selection
Schedule your wedding reception at a country club, banquet hall, private room in a restaurant or bar, park, your backyard…whatever is appealing and affordable is generally what’s best. Don’t give in to pressure from family and friends about where the reception should be held, as you’re throwing it for their benefit! Make the event as casual or formal as you want. If your first wedding was a little too casual, consider a semi-formal event. If your first wedding was so black-tie it nauseated you, opt for something chic yet informal.
Gifts And Money
Feel free to register for gifts, though it is unlikely you need a new blender or toaster oven. Ask for charitable donations to your favorite nonprofits if you want, or “experience” gifts, such as money towards a ski package in Aspen or the chance to swim with sharks in tropical waters. If you really do need a new toaster oven, go for it.
Make your second wedding reception what you want it to be…and have a really great time!
