10 Guidelines to a Joyous Encore Wedding

So you've been married before and you have decided to take a chance at love again. The encore wedding is for the bride who is making the trip down the aisle for the second time or even the 3rd or 4th. With an encore wedding, there's less stress as you have an idea on what to expect. You also have a chance to try some of the ideas, you may feel you have missed out on the last time. Here are a few guidelines to make it a joyous event.

• Keep it simple, don't let the details take over, plan together. Today both Brides and Grooms are actively involved in planning their weddings.

• Find meaningful ways to include your children in the celebrations, and in your future lives. Tell your children first, no matter their ages.

• Reassure family and long term friends that they will continue to play an important part in your lives.
  

• Build your celebrations around those traditions and themes that are most meaningful to you, and have confidence in your choices, make sure however that in making these choices, you have given consideration to those involved and that your choices will not alienate them or make them feel uncomfortable.

• Be realistic about your budget. In all likelihood it's just the two of you footing the bill.

• Make sure you have put closure on your first marriage Legally, Financially and emotionally. Put away engagement rings from past marriages, you can save them for future generations or have the stones reset into other jewelry.

• Register for gifts that you want, even if you don't expect gifts, many guests will want to. Giving them registries are helpful for those trying to select something for that couple. Be sure to register for a range of prices.

• Remember that Thank you notes never go out of style. A written note should be sent for every wedding gift you've received, within 3 months of the date of the receipt of the gift and remember; Grooms can write Thank You notes too.

• Whether verbally or with a small token of thanks, be sure to thank anyone who has done anything for you. Rather it be Vendor service providers, clergy or friends.

• When the big day arrives, relax and enjoy your wedding.
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