Planning a Second Wedding? Everything You Need to Know

civil wedding

Second weddings are a common occurrence, but planning a second wedding isn’t the same as planning a first wedding. Also, second weddings seem to come with more opinions, whether it be from your kids, friends or family members. It is important to set aside those opinions and follow proper wedding etiquette for second weddings.

The Dress and Attire

the dress and attire

At a second wedding, you don’t have to wear a white dress. In fact, most second brides already had their white dress moment, which is why most second wedding dresses are brightly coloured. You don’t even have to wear a dress if you don’t want to.

Announcing Your Plans

anouncing your plans

If this is your second marriage, you may have kids from a previous marriage (or your soon-to-be-spouse may have children). It is important you discuss your plans with your children first. Then, let your ex-spouse know about the wedding before you start telling other family and friends. If your children will be part of the new wedding ceremony, run it by your ex as a common courtesy.

Involve the Kids

involve kids

If you have children from your first marriage or your fiance does, try to involve them in the wedding planning process as well as the wedding itself. This will help them adjust to the new wedding and could be a great experience for them as well. Get their input, ask them what role they would like to play in the wedding, etc.

Registering for Your Gifts

registering your gifts

For a second wedding, most couples skip gift registries and create a honeymoon fund. Traditionally, wedding gifts are meant to help set up the new couples home, but as a second marriage, it is unlikely you need the same items you did before. You can still create a gift registry if you would like, but stick to household items you both need.

What About the Bridal Shower?

bridal shower

Bridal showers are not typically thrown for second-time brides. However, you may have friends that insist on throwing one. Perhaps you didn’t get an official bridal shower the first time around either. There is no right or wrong way when it comes to the bridal shower, but don’t feel obligated to have one if you don’t want one.

Paying for the Wedding

paying for the wedding

In a first wedding, parents of the couple usually help pay for the wedding bill. But, a second wedding usually falls on the shoulders of the couple. While family and friends are more than welcome to help, you may notice they are less inclined to pay for a wedding the second time around.

What if it is a First Time Wedding for One of You?

what if its a first time wedding

Just because it is your second wedding doesn’t mean it isn’t the first for your spouse. If one of you have never been married before, you can combine the etiquette of a first time and second time wedding together.

Readers: What are your thoughts on second weddings? Any etiquette rules you want to share?