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Encore Wedding Planning and Gift Q & A

 Encore Wedding etiquette, big or small wedding, gifts

Should we have a big or small wedding?

Dear Polite One, 

We are both in our forties and I've been married before, but he hasn't.  I have a pre-teen daughter and he has no children.  What type of ceremony is appropriate for our situation? Since I had all the trimmings the first time, should we this time?  He really would like a traditional all-out wedding/reception.

Interested in Propriety  

Dear Interested in Propriety, 

Go for it!  This is a new beginning for both of you as a couple.  Celebrate and enjoy it.  There are few restrictions for encore/second-time brides these days.   Elements to be avoided would be a blusher veil and your father escorting you down the aisle.  However, your daughter would be a great choice of escort.  

Tossing your garter and bouquet is probably not a great idea as well.  And because you would be hosting, not your parents, you and your husband would be at the head of your reception line.  

Other than that, the sky is the limit.  You can have the wedding that you desire, register for gifts, include a bridal party, all of it.   

If this were a 3rd, 4th... wedding, to some it might appear gauche to wear a traditional gown though.   

Sincerely, 

The Polite One

What is a proper encore wedding gift?

Dear Polite One,

While not a first wedding for either of my friends, they are getting married after living together for a decade. Since she is an avid cook, I considered new knives but am not sure if this is considered a proper wedding gift.  

Best Friend 

Dear Best Friend, 

In the past, knives were considered inappropriate.  It’s crazy by our standards, but people actually believed that the gift of knives meant you wanted to “sever” the relationship.  Thankfully, we are beyond that silliness. 

You are a very generous friend. It is a great gift. One, I believe she will love.

Sincerely, 

The Polite One

Please Read

Do I give a gift or what?

Encore Wedding Planning

4 of the Most Asked Wedding Etiquette Questions Answered 


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