Take Two

Is this your second time around for tying the knot? It can be a minefield when it comes to planning the Day. Your first wedding may have seemed relatively easy in comparison to this one, So many etiquette rules and dos and don’ts are likely to be leaving you feeling slightly confused. Well here are a few guidelines to make sure your next trip down the aisle is everything you want it to be.

What Kind of Ceremony?
You may think that because this is your second time around you have to go for something a little more muted in tone. That is not true, you can even have a marriage in a Catholic church if you speak to the Priest he can take you through everything you need to know. A civil ceremony in a registry office is something that most couples tend to go for, purely due to expense and age and they don’t feel the need to invite everybody they know. If you do want a big wedding then that is up to you – invite who you like and blow the budget on the wedding you always wanted to have!

Who do I invite?In times gone by weddings were always very small affairs and not expected to be anywhere as near as big as the last one. However, times change and traditions are scrapped. Now it is down to you and your new partner and how you want to express yourselves on your day. A wedding is what it is and there is no reason why it should be humble and muted. Invite your nearest and dearest as you would at any wedding.

What About Us?
When getting married for a second time it is important to remember that if your partner is walking down the aisle for the first time then don’t hog the day by having everything your way. Perhaps they have always wanted a big wedding or would like a long reception. Be sensitive to their requests as well and compromise on the trickier issues. This day belongs to you both and needs to be about the relationship you have together and not about the showmanship or how much you spend. As long as you are both happy and enjoy the day for what it is.

What about Gifts?
You shouldn't really expect gifts a second time around as many of your guests will have forked out for gifts before. However, there are people who will want to give you a gift. Think if there is anything that you are saving for that they could contribute to? Or perhaps add a polite note to your invitations asking people that should they wish to give a gift for the Bride and Groom then you would appreciate them making a donation to a charity that you both support.

At the end of it all, this day is about you both as a couple. Ignore the etiquette rules and enjoy yourself - just be mindful about the cost to other people who were there the first time around.