Should we have a big or small encore 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; your daughter would be a great choice. Throwing your garter and bouquet is probably not a great idea as well. You and your husband would be at the head of your reception line because you would be hosting, not your parents.

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

Sincerely,

The Polite One

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