First, congratulations! Life IS good, and you deserve to choose the type of wedding and reception you want for your special day.
Very likely, you already have a pretty good idea of what you do – and absolutely don’t -- want to do on your wedding day. But whether you want to go BIG or just family and close friends, that still leaves a lot of little details to consider.
Jacquie’s Gourmet Catering wedding planning team has helped lots of second-timers with their receptions – for which we have adopted a slogan we embrace fully. Life is too short to worry about what others might think. “Absolutely,” nods owner Jacquie Bols, “Just do what feels right for you.”
Here are some pretty cool ideas to use – or not -- from the happy couples we’ve worked with recently:
1. ANNOUNCEMENTS
The most important people to tell are your children and/or close family members so you can set the tone of your news, co-parents included.
No kids? It’s still courteous to inform your ex so they can hear it from you rather than from someone else. Even if you aren’t on the best of terms, it’s the classy thing to do.
After you have told the kids and your family, feel free to send announcements out. The world is a busy place. It’s a good idea to get your date on their calendar early. Do what is easiest for you and to your liking.
Speaking of kids, you might choose to include them in the announcement – especially if they will be involved in some way with the ceremony.
2. THE VENUE
The place you choose for your wedding and reception will set the tone for the day. That’s why we recommend choosing a place that has meaning for you both.
We have lots of experience with venues and are happy to help in your decision. We can give you the scoop on everything from parking to best places for live bands – to guest capacity.
3. WHAT TO WEAR
In general, outdoor weddings are more relaxed in attire and attitude; indoors, a little less so.
That said, wear whatever you want in a color that looks good on you. We’ve seen everything from formal white gowns to dresses in jewel tones or pastels… or a bright sundress… or anything else that strikes your fancy.
Anything goes for the groom, too, from a classic suit to an open neck shirt and casual slacks. Shorts could work, too, depending on the season.
Just be sure bride’s and groom’s colors and styles work well together so you both feel comfortable.
4. CEREMONY IDEAS
Consider including the kids. We’ve seen kids of all ages and both sexes “standing up” for the bride – and the groom.
If you are unsure of younger children’s participation, invite a close friend or family member to assist them as needed.
If the venue is outside and it’s cool with management, bring your family dog/s. Guests love seeing them beside you as you say your vows.
Older kids might want to share a reading during the ceremony -- as long as kids are comfortable with their roles.
5. TO GIFT OR NOT TO GIFT
Gifts are now much more common for a second weddings today. You can register (or not) just as folks do at a first wedding.
Another great idea is to request “no gifts,” possibly suggesting a donation to a cause you both support.
6. FOOD AND BEVERAGES
We can pull together the ideal menu for your group, large or small. We have great suggestions on what’s trending, what foods pair well, and how to set things up to look great while satisfying a multitude of palettes and appetites.
Open bar? Sure. But beer and wine alone are also perfectly fine.
Signature cocktails can also be fun – from naming them – to what goes into them.
Mocktails? We gotcha covered.
Let’s talk about what you want
When you’re ready to set ideas in motion, give us a call. As you can see, we have lots of ideas. We’re happy to help make your second time around absolutely memorable -- and lots of fun!
