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HomeMy WebLinkAboutThe Citizen, 2005-02-10, Page 36Aecetid-time tkiides Secund time awund Getting remarried? Doing it your way, including not wearing a wedding dress is perfectly acceptable for couple who choose to walk down the aisle a second time. Planning a second wedding? For many couples who are getting married, it’s common for either partner to have been married before. According to gettingremarried.com, nearly 50 per cent of all marriages in 2003 were second weddings for at least one partner, if not both. In the past, it was unheard of to plan a reception for a second marriage and most couples either chose to elope or have a small ceremony and dinner afterwards, inviting only a few close friends and family. But, times have changed and so have the rules of the game for what is considered acceptable when getting hitched a second time. While some couples still choose to elope or have a small affair, others go for a more elaborate reception, even having their children participate in the ceremony. The growing trend seems to be couples tailoring their second, third and even fourth weddings to what works for them. So, whatever you decide, there’s no right or wrong way to celebrate. But, remember, what is comfortable for one couple may not be for another. That’s why it’s particularly important to consider your preferences as a couple, as well as personalities, religion, finances, family customs and life situation when planning a second wed­ ding. To guide you, here are some of ‘encore’ wedding etiquette tips, courtesy of weddinggazette, com * Anything goes as far as a ceremony and/or reception. Keep it small and simple, or make it big. Either way, works today. The key is making everyone feel comfor­ table. * If you don’t want guests to give gifts, do not include a note about no-gifts with the invitation. However, as you receive responses to the wedding, you (your fiance, mother, or your maid of honour) should let the guests know that their presence is more than enough. Still, some guests may give you a gift anyway. In that case, it is totally acceptable to ask that they make a donation to your favourite organization or charity. * A bride who has been married previously can choose the wardrobe and flowers of her choice. While a white gown no longer symbolizes purity, many encore brides are opting for coloured gowns and/or accessories. Many choose not to wear the blusher veil which, traditionally, symbolized virginity. Orange blossoms symbolize first­ time brides, so encore brides may choose not to use them in their bouquets (but it’s acceptable if they do). * Encore brides can be given away by a father, a brother, or even a friend. Or, a second-time bride may choose to walk down the aisle by herself. * Typically, the bride and groom host their own affair, but it is equally common for the parents of both the bride and groom to offer some financial support. However, such help shouldn’t be expected if the parents contributed to the first wedding. All in all, there are no strict rules to follow for second marriages I • Wedding invitations & accessories ( • Wedding programs, cake tops A Wedding Store Glassware Guest Books Favour Ideas - Bubbles Balloons Decorations & Tableware Cello wrap, ribbons, bows Ceiling decor and back drops Rentals: arches, pillars, table centrepieces Linens, wine glasses and more SHIR-TIME PARTIES 308 Main St. E., Listowel 291-5555 www.shirtimeparties.ca only your future spouse and you can decide what's right. “A moment of bliss, a lifetime of balance.” • Relax and unwind before your big day with a variety of spa services. A luxurious treat for the bride, groom, mother of the bride and groom, wedding party and friends, • We offer - Massage therapy, European facials, pedicures, manicures, and many more relaxing services. • We can facilitate groups with advance notice. Schedule your appointments early to guarantee full satisfaction. www.spa-in-bayfield.ca 565-2123 Set the mood for your wedding by creating your own fine ol a Kind Invitations & Accessories Put a unique stamp on your ❖ Wedding Invitations ❖ Programs ❖ Guestbooks ❖ Placecards ❖ Menus ❖ Wedding Favours ❖ Thank You Cards Sometimes even the smallest detail can set the invitation apart. And when the big day has come and gone, we can help you create a wedding album that showcases every moment with your personal style. 43 Wedt St.r Qodj&ucJ't 524-2992 The Citizen. Weddings 2005. Page 11.