First of all, congratulations on your engagement! Planning a second wedding might feel overwhelming, but remember, a second chance at love is a beautiful thing to celebrate.
A stunning bride from our 2023 issue of Wedding in Houston Magazine, Sharon, said it best, “It is perfectly okay to have a big fancy wedding even if it is your second time!”
Read on for our top tips for planning a second wedding.
1. Make It Unique to Your Relationship
Our most important piece of advice: don’t replicate your first wedding. Your new relationship deserves a fresh start, including on your big day. Whether you choose to break from tradition or plan a destination wedding, make sure it’s a reflection of you and your future partner.
2. Big or Small, It’s Your Call
Whether you envision a grand celebration with 500 guests or an intimate gathering of just a few close friends, the choice is yours. Some couples love a big bash, while others prefer to elope or have a small, private ceremony. This time, curate your guest list to include only those who genuinely support and love you. It’s your day, make it about the people who matter most.
3. Embrace New Traditions
The beauty of a second wedding is the freedom to create your own traditions. If your father walked you down the aisle the first time, who’s to say he can’t do it again? Or perhaps you want to walk alone, with your children, another family member or even with a cherished pet this time around. You might also consider having your children serve as your maid of honor or best man, adding a deeply personal touch to your ceremony. And remember, you don’t need a wedding party at all if that suits you better. The focus should be on what feels right for you and your partner.
4. Wear What Makes You Feel Beautiful
If a white gown and veil make you feel like a bride, go for it! But if you prefer a different color or style, embrace that choice. The most important thing is that you feel beautiful and confident on your special day.
5. Celebrate Your Way
Some brides feel hesitant about having pre-wedding celebrations like bridal showers or bachelorette parties for a second time. If you prefer not to have a bridal shower, consider an engagement party that celebrates you and your fiancé together. When it comes to bachelorette parties, a fun night out with your best friends is always a great idea to mark this new chapter in your life.
6. Register for What You Truly Want
You might already have all the household items you need, but that doesn’t mean you can’t have a registry. Opt for unique items that reflect your current interests and lifestyle. Perhaps you’re building an outdoor living space and need patio furniture, or you want new china for creating new memories around the dinner table. If you prefer not to ask for gifts, consider a honeymoon fund or a charity donation option instead.
7. Skip What Doesn’t Matter to You
The most important aspect of planning your second wedding is making it meaningful to you and your partner. Feel free to skip traditions that don’t resonate with you. Whether it’s the garter toss or the entire ceremony in favor of just a reception, the choice is entirely yours.
Remember, your second wedding is a celebration of the love and union between you and your partner. Make it as grand or as intimate as you desire. The day is about your happiness and the start of your new life together. Click here to dive deeper into Sharon and Daniel’s gorgeous wedding in Houston.
“7 Tips For Planning a Second Wedding” Spotlight WiH Partner- Registry: Bering’s
Contributing Vendors- Photo: Mustard Seed Photography / The Woodlands Country Club / Johanna Terry Events / Kiss the Cook Cakes / Brickhouse Bridal / DGZ Invitations and More / Paper Tie Affair / DJ Forrest Houston / Blush Artistry / Monarch British Limousines / Martina Liana
