Second Wedding Reception Ideas
If you're planning a second wedding, there are plenty of things to consider -- from the appropriateness of a bridal shower and the wording on the invitations to what to wear and what role the kids will play. Then, of course, there's the reception. There are few etiquette rules regarding a second reception, and these include being very careful about references to exes. Many couples tend to go smaller and more casual the second time around. But if you did that the first time, why not go big this time? The most important thing is that the bride, groom and any children involved are comfortable with the plan.
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Something Completely Different
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If you did the big, traditional wedding and reception the first time around, think about a smaller, more intimate or casual affair this time. Because so many first weddings are as much about the parents of the bride and groom as the couple themselves, a second wedding should be something the happy couple wants, independent of expectations from family and friends.
And whatever you do, don't wed or hold your reception in any of the same places where your first weddings took place. You don't want to find yourself reliving those memories, nor do you want your friends to be making comparisons.
Take It on the Road
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If you've dreamed of a mountaintop wedding or a wedding by the sea, then tell your friends and family to plan for a vacation along with the big event. Second weddings tend to be less traditional, so having a reception at a ski resort, a campground, or even on a cruise ship, could be just as memorable as a lavish reception in a beautiful ballroom.
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Hit the Beach
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If you're beach-lovers, consider something that mixes a little sand and sun with your wedding vows. You can't walk 100 yards along a Florida beach in the fall or spring without running into a wedding with barefoot bridesmaids and most of the guests in sunglasses. There's a reason they're so popular. The ceremonies are picturesque, and the reception can be anything you want -- from a beach blast with a keg and a DJ to a more formal dinner at a luxury beach-side resort.
What About Disney?
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Many second weddings include brides and grooms with children. Take the about-to-be-combined families to a place like Disney World, which caters to kids and weddings (the chapel at the Grand Floridian is very sweet, and there's Cinderalla's castle in the background). The day after the reception can be spent at one of the parks -- which can be a great incentive for the children involved in the wedding to be on their best behavior.
Wedding Traditions
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Unless the bride or groom feels strongly about them, you may want traditions such as the garter and the bouquet toss to be absent from a second wedding reception. This goes for the wedding, too. It's not necessary to have someone give the bride away (for a second time).
Include the Children
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Even if the kids adore their new stepparent, the idea of seeing mom or dad marry someone else can be jarring to kids. But if you let them be a part of the ceremony and formally introduce them at the reception, you're reinforcing the idea that two families are becoming one and that you're all in this together. From flower girls and ring bearers to bridesmaids and groomsmen, the kids of marrying couple deserve a key role. Make sure everyone in the new family dances with one another at the reception. If the kids are up to it, let them make a special toast, as well.
Two Receptions
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Because there are likely to be children involved in a second marriage, another idea is to hold a junior reception for the kids, their cousins and their friends, at the same time as the adult reception. A local party planner could help. It will help keep the kids from getting too bored, and knowing the children are well-supervised -- pay a babysitter or two to look after the young party crowd -- will let the bride and groom relax and enjoy their moment together.
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