Our event planners spill: How to de-stress second weddings

As you might expect, Jacquie’s event planners have a lot of experience planning weddings. That said, second weddings tend to be less formal and a lot more flexible. These weddings are fun and inspirational for us to do as well.

Here are some of what we’ve learned from our clients, and from experience:

• Traditions become optional. Tone tends to be more relaxed and casual. You both get to plan the day you really want, ignoring formalities as you wish.
• Where whatever type of dress you want in whatever color you love!
• Bridesmaids & groomsmen? Have ‘em or not. Often we see a bestie or two supporting the bride and/or groom. Or teen or adult children. Or a favorite grandparent.
• Ceremonies are a lot more low-key. Perhaps have a family friend perform the ceremony (it’s easy to get certified as a non-traditional minister online).
• Consider a more intimate ceremony first, then a larger celebration afterward (it doesn’t even have to be the same day as the ceremony.)

What about that reception?

Go low-key or go wild! Inside or outside – or choose a venue with both options. It’s absolutely up to the two of you.

There are hundreds of venue options available, each with its own special vibe; everything from casual to upscale; country to boho chic, classic to a little bit of everything.

As you are considering the venue, be thinking about your guest list. Be strategic with whom you both invite, especially if your event is smaller. Work friends included or just friends and family? Have you kids invite those they would like as well.

Seated dinner? Think strategically about that, grouping guests at tables by mixing friends, blended family, and neighbors at each table. Makes for more interesting conversations – and establishing a good comfort level.

Having multiple serving stations? Great idea, especially when there will be a mix of kids, family and friends. We can help you plan a diverse menu to please multiple palates: Light appetizers, ethnic food stations, kid-friendly stations, salad and “bowl” bars – our event planners have no shortage of workable ideas!

And speaking of that, here are some of the reception ideas we’ve seen and admired. (Feel free to see where they take you, or come up with your own.)

• Skip the bouquet toss in favor of handing it to a special single friend. Or the person who introduced you. Or quietly dividing your bouquet after the ceremony into several tiny bouquets, one for each child or each of your parents.
• Maybe you skip the round of traditional toasts and just have each (or one of you) speak to the guests, families and children.
• Set the tone with your new co-joined families. Something we love is when the first dance includes all members of the merged family, especially the kids.
• Cutting the cake? Have the kids help pass the slices out. It’s cute to watch, and the kids love being involved.

No matter what kind of wedding you have in mind, we’ve also love to be by your side, helping with ideas, suggestions, and getting everything set for you and your guests to enjoy!

• Jacquie’s event team