Getting re-married should be a special, monumental day in your life. Rather than doing something small or low-key simply because it’s your second wedding, this is the time to embrace this happy season of your life and go all out! We’ve gathered tips and tricks from top industry pros to help make your second wedding feel absolutely unforgettable.
Prioritize your guest list.
“This is your second chance at a perfect day that feels extremely personal to you. In setting priorities for your day, consider your guest list first and foremost. Who is in your inner circle these days? Who makes you the happiest and most comfortable version of yourself? Those should be your parameters when setting your guest list.” – Mandy Connor, Owner, Hummingbird Events & Design
Add some interactive experiences for your guests to liven things up.
“Your second wedding should be just as memorable as your first! Adding in an interactive experience for your guests will make it unforgettable, such as fireworks/flower cannon, lots of food stations, or even an escort display of items guests can have as their favor. The ideas are endless, but make it something that is about you and your spouse!” – Casey Stamouli, Owner & Lead Planner, Casey & Co. Events
Opt for a unique location.
“Choose an unconventional location for your second wedding to create a truly unforgettable experience. Consider a mountaintop, a secluded beach, or even in a charming vineyard. The scenic backdrop will enhance the ambiance and make your wedding day feel extraordinary. Even your backyard can be uber special.” – Misty Damico, CEO & Founder, Luxe Event Productions
Don’t stress about traditions!
“You don’t need to follow old traditions regarding second weddings. If you want to wear a traditional wedding gown, go for it! If you want to host a large wedding with a big guest list, do it! The most important thing to remember is that you should be true to yourself and your betrothed in how you celebrate your special day.” – Mandy Connor, Owner, Hummingbird Events & Designs
Stick to a close-knit wedding party.
“Keep your wedding party small and limited to only the most important people who really want to stand out on your day. If there are children on either side (or both!) have these people in the party only. Age doesn’t matter! It is always so heartfelt and sweet to see this.” – Valerie Falvey, Kirkbrides Wedding Planning & Design
When it comes to your fashion, don’t skimp!
“Just because this is a second wedding does not mean you cannot wear white. Our Isa and Lou gowns are made of organic cotton which will keep you cool and comfortable during your day of celebration. Another rule of thumb we love is that whether it’s your first or second wedding, clean and simple is always a good choice. Our Althea is a timeless slip dress that can be dressed up or down depending on how you style your big day. And don’t worry about having a bulky gown collect dust in your closet! Instead of having another gown take up space in the back of your closet, we offer an Event After conversion package with every Poemia wedding dress. After your wedding you can send the gown back to us and we will shorten it and naturally dye it, giving it life well after you say your ‘I do’s’.” – Katie Rieben, Co-Founder + Head of Product, Poémia
Consider the things you wish you had done differently the first time around.
“Do everything you wanted to do the first time but couldn’t! Usually , with a second marriage, you are paying for it and not worrying about making the whole family happy or inviting your parent’s friends-friends that you never meet. Keep it true to what makes you both happy and not fold to the pressure of what’s right to do by the family!” – Erica, Infinite Events
Don’t forget to show appreciation for your partner throughout the planning process!
“Look for little ways to make your partner feel extra special leading up to your wedding day.” – Colleen, The Handkerchief Shop
Create a specialty menu!
“Create a signature cocktail or a special menu that represents your love story or showcases your favorite restaurants. These culinary memories will be a fun addition to your second ‘I do’.” – Misty Damico, CEO & Founder, Luxe Event Productions
Small and authentic is key!
“Second wedding or first wedding, both are incredibly special! Want to make your second wedding extra special? Keep it small and authentic. Forget about all your ‘obligatory invites’ and keep it to those who are truly your nearest and dearest. Once you have them there, treat them to a full weekend with personal details to keep it feeling intimate and warm. Welcome your guests with a hand-written note, spoil them with multiple events and delicious food, the list of ways to make your guests feel special is endless!” – Nora Sheils, Founder, Bridal Bliss + Co-Founder, Rock Paper Coin
Add personal touches that reflect you and your partner’s personalities.
“Sit down with your partner and reflect on the unique things that represent you as a couple. This could be favorite music or songs, menu items, color or design style, your pets, or even an inside joke that perfectly encompasses your relationship vibe. From there, discuss how you might incorporate these elements into your wedding day. These are the details that will make your wedding stand out and ensure you don’t accidentally “repeat” anything from previous engagements (no pun intended). Through this practice you will curate the perfect reflection of your love for your family and friends to remember for years to come!” – Alexandra Denniston, Owner & Lead Planner, Eventlightenment Planning
Write personalized vows.
“Take a moment to craft heartfelt vows that reflect your journey together, share your experience, lessons learned, and aspirations for the future. This will not only make the ceremony more meaningful, but your guests will love it.” – Misty Damico, CEO & Founder, Luxe Event Productions
Go off script for the reception.
“For the second wedding, go off script and create a fun evening for your guests. Bring in a comedian, a surprise performer or take everyone on an excursion! Think outside of the box from the normal wedding elements and wow your guests with an experience instead of them expecting a normal wedding celebration.” – Jamie, Cape Cod Celebrations
Make it stress free.
“For your second wedding, the most important element is to keep it small, intimate and stress free. You want to be able to focus on your husband and guests. My first wedding, I was barely able to even sit down with my husband because you are trying to greet every guest and are pulled in so many directions. It was unnecessarily stressful when the focus should be on the couple’s love with only the most important people in their lives. For my next wedding, I plan to do long dinner tables for 60 or less and truly focus on the details. I am a wedding planner and own parties By The Sea in Los Angeles, California. I create over the top elegant designs with the most talented chefs and florists in Southern California. I focus on the design aspects, making sure the menu and food is top of the line is absolutely a priority. I also love to bring in different local vendors to create one of a kind custom cookies and cakes, and having party favors for each guest is always a special touch. For the second time around, my suggestion is above all else: make it for you and your loved ones and focus on the flowers, food and a stunning venue.” – Parties By The Sea
Embrace what makes your story unique.
“Your second wedding is an opportunity to celebrate that led you to this special moment. Incorporate personal touches and meaningful details that reflect your unique love story.” – Anastasia Shevchenko, Sheff Production Photography & Videography
At the end of the day, remember there are no rules.
“When planning any wedding, whether it be your first marriage or a re-marriage, it’s crucial to remain true to what you + your partner want! Forget any societal pressures you might feel. If something doesn’t feel representative of you and your partner, scrap it! Big wedding, small wedding, elopement, huge wedding party, no wedding party… There are no rules to a ‘perfect wedding’. At the end of the day, it matters about starting this new chapter with the person you love! And if you stay true to that vision, I guarantee it’ll be a memorable celebration!” – Kari Dirksen, CEO + Lead Planner, Feathered Arrow Events
Now, if you are obsessed with these tips and tricks from top industry pros to help make your second wedding feel absolutely unforgettable, we know you will love Pro Tips From Top Wedding Industry Professionals Regarding Your Wedding Guest List for even more inspiration!”