Authored by Jody Morse in Wedding
Published on 06-08-2009
Are you planning on getting married a second time? No matter what anyone tells you, a second wedding is just as important as the first. Whether you want it to be very small and simple, or large and elaborate, remember that a second wedding is about the celebration of two people. As with all weddings, etiquette should play a role in planning a second wedding. Here are some second wedding etiquette tips that you should keep in mind.
Let Children Know First
The first and foremost second wedding etiquette tip that you should be aware of concerns children. Before sending out engagement announcements for a second wedding, be sure to let your children know that you are getting married. Also keep in mind that if you want to follow good second wedding etiquette, incorporating all children into the wedding ceremony in some way is in your best interest.
Decide if You Should Tell Your Ex
As long as you are on speaking terms with your ex, it is proper second wedding etiquette to let him or her know about the engagement. If you need to deal with one another on a regular basis due to the children, then it is especially important to make sure that your ex-spouse hears it from you first. Do keep in mind that your children should never learn about your second engagement from your ex, however.
Second Wedding Invitation List
Another one of the main keys to second wedding etiquette is who will be invited. With your first wedding, it is likely that you were able to invite just about anyone you wanted. With a second wedding, there are limitations as to who can make the invitation list. Proper second wedding etiquette says that you should not invite anyone who your future spouse is uncomfortable with you inviting. This means that there is a strong possibility that your ex-spouse and former in-laws will not make the list. Even if you’re on good terms, be sure to consider how they would feel about being invited.
Avoid Anything Related to the First Wedding
Good second wedding etiquette says that you should avoid anything from your first wedding. You will want to make sure the whole wedding is a completely new experience. Do not choose the same wedding venue, wear the same dress, use the same engagement ring or even incorporate the same colors into your wedding ceremony. Second wedding etiquette aside, remember that this is the special day for you and your new husband or wife. Reminding yourself or your guests of a previous wedding is not the best way to begin a marriage.
Second wedding etiquette can seem somewhat challenging. It really does not need to be, however. The most important thing to keep in mind is that you should follow the same etiquette as you would for first weddings. In addition, you need to follow second wedding etiquette. What this really means is that you need to take the feelings of others, such as your children, ex-spouse, and new fiance, into consideration.
