Ettiquette for a Second Wedding
Many people believe the ettiquette for a second wedding is very different than for first time brides. In reality the differences are generally less than thought. Even the bride who begins planning with the thought of a very nontraditional wedding often finds the attraction of many traditional components too meaningful to set aside. Many second time brides want to experience the special feeling and beauty of wearing a full wedding gown.
Today's market includes numerous selections designed especially for the second bride. Of the many brides seeking help at our wedding planning center, whether for our site library, concierge service, our complete "everything" packages, or one of our several chapels, many are second weddings. They often enjoy the use of the site library to assist them in finding a more creative, lesss conventional location for the ceremony or reception. Sometimes the convenience of a location which can meet both needs is a desirable option. A rapidly growing trend is the popularity of the "everything" package available through the Christian Wedding Planning Center. The Everything Package combines all but the clothing, rings and honeymoon into one time and cost saving purchase. Under the direction of a professional coordinator, the plan can be customized to meet the budget, style, and needs of each couple.
Another difference in planning for a not first time bride is her shift in emphasis. Most of the more meaningful customs seem to continue while some of the lesser customs fall by the wayside. Some plan the same. Some delete the train and the blusher on the bride's veil or the veil is replaced entirely with flowers in her hair. Many choose to include their children as a part of the ceremony.
One popular custom is to have all the children from both sides participate in the unity candle or the prayer of family blessing. Another custom increasing in popularity is the presentation of the family medallion in a separate section of the ceremony to symbolize the new couple's commitment to the child. This is similar to the symbolism of the wedding ring for the couple. A specially inscribed medallion is presented to each child, often accompanied by reciting a commitment of continued love and family bonding. This can be followed by joining hands and a prayer of blessing and commitment for the entire family.
Whether the wedding takes a more or less traditional look is not as important as retaining the meaningful family values and spiritual significance of marriage. Second brides are generally more mature and independent and less likely to include traditions that are less meaningful to them purely for the sake of tradition or only to please a parent or grandparent. They experience more freedom whether they choose to include a large number of guests, traditional church or chapel wedding or a casual wedding in their home, garden or at the beach. At the Christian Wedding Planning Center we encourage each couple to plan a uniquely meaninful wedding suited to themselves and utilizing as many or as few of the wedding traditions as they choose.
Second weddings are sometimes slightly smaller but are rich in family involvement. This makes wonderful photographs and video. Couples should not forgo professional photography because they may be planning a smaller, second wedding. The main highlights that remain are very important for photographs even if some of the more ceremonial traditions are deleted.
Choosing a highly qualified professional is important not only for the quality of the memories in photographs and video, but also for the helpful, prompt and courteous manner in which they efficiently accomplish this. Leaving such a critical task to one less qualified has a negative effect on the entire day, often throwing it off schedule and adding stress and frustration to a day which every couple wants to be perfect. If children are involved in the wedding they will often not have the patience to be well represented in the photographs if not completed with precision and skill. By choosing a professional photographer, you will be free to relax and enjoy your special day, knowing your memories are dependably preserved.
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