For so many of us, getting married again is a daunting and emotional experience. We are determined to succeed with the right partner this time. Marrying a first-time groom, there are so many things we "get" to do that would not be acceptable had we been born just a generation ago. Here are just a few things that have changed since I got married last time.
The Bridal Veil - used to be that a gown was okay but the veil was not. Something about virginal appearance or something. This argument (to me) went out the door when we started co-habitating with our boyfriends. Besides, the origin of the veil in American culture had nothing to do with virginity.
Ecru Invitations - why we were relegated to white if we were over 35 or a second time bride made no sense either. Its paper, people! Thankfully, today we can chose from a rainbow of color and we are not shunned from things like engraving.
Nice Receptions - Second time brides and their grooms did not have large bashes to celebrate their big day. Thankfully now we can throw pretty much any kind of party we want to help us celebrate the fact we've wed the person of our dreams.
Gift Registries - ONLINE! - How convenient is it to just point, click, charge, gift wrap and deliver with the click of a mouse!
Vendor Shopping Online - This is the biggest time saver I can think of. Long before The KNOT and others like it, you were relegated to knowledgeable friends and family or perhaps a book by a famous wedding planner. Now you can get an idea of who you are meeting before you pick up the phone to schedule an appointment.
Bachelorette parties - These were not common in my circles when I was younger. I was too busy planning anyway. Its nice to have a night out on the town with the girls this time though!
Reception Packages - last time around, I found a venue. Then I found a caterer. Then I found a baker for my cake. A DJ, Florist, etc. My venue would suggest people, but that was pretty much it. These days I am thrilled to find ready-made packages for different price points. Anything to make a lovely party and make my life easier too.
This time around is my last time. I'm thankful for the man I'm marrying and for the future we have together. I'm also thankful that a lot has changed since I wed the first time (okay, well the prices could have stayed the same....), both personally and in the wedding industry.
So second timers, any changes that shocked you (pleasantly or otherwise) when you began planning your second wedding?
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