Should a Second Wedding Be as Grand as the First? Let’s Dish!

You’ve been down this aisle before (or maybe more than once—no judgement here!), and now you’re tying the knot with someone new. Congratulations! But here’s the big question: should this wedding be as grand as the first? Or is it time to dial it down and focus on something a little more… you? Let’s dive into it, shall we?

A moment of reflection

Right, let’s be honest. After your first (or second) wedding, you’ve probably realised a few things about what you really want. Sure, the fireworks, five-tier cake, and 200 guests were lovely the first time, but do you really need all that fuss again? This time around, you know the day’s not about impressing Aunt Brenda or fulfilling your mum’s wedding dreams. It’s about celebrating your new chapter with someone who gets you. So, do you go big? Or do you save the big show for your anniversary trips?

Are You Spending or Saving?

Let’s face it, you’ve been there, done that, and probably bought the (overpriced) wedding dress. Now that you’re a bit older, wiser, and (hopefully) a little more financially stable, you might think differently about splashing the cash. Maybe you’ve got retirement to think about, or perhaps you’re saving up for an epic round-the-world honeymoon instead of splurging on chair covers no one will remember.

The good news? You can still have a gorgeous day without maxing out the credit cards. The question is whether you want a grand affair or something more laid-back. Either way, a budget-friendly bash can still be full of love—and less stress!

Blended Families and Kids: The Real VIPs

Now, if you’ve got kids, they’re probably going to be a big part of this celebration. Whether they’re from your side, your partner’s side, or both, it’s all about blending the family. You might want to include them in the ceremony—flower girls, pageboys, or even a cheeky ring bearer. Just imagine your child walking down the aisle, stealing the show with cuteness (or maybe a tantrum if we’re being realistic).

It’s not just about you two anymore, and that can make things really special. Whether it’s a big wedding or a small one, creating a family celebration can give you all the feels.

To Invite or Not to Invite

Ah, the guest list. Always a joy, right? But now you’ve got the added question: who gets invited to the second wedding? Do you ask the same people who attended the first one, or is it time for a fresh slate? No one wants to sit through a ‘deja vu’ ceremony with the same old crowd who’ve already been there, done that.

Keep it simple: invite the people who matter now. No need to feel guilty if you don’t want to invite the ex-in-laws (awkward much?) or that friend you lost touch with after the first wedding. This is about you and your new partner, so surround yourselves with the people who genuinely support you both.

What Suits You Now?

Let’s be real. Do you want to recreate the big, grand affair from your first wedding, or are you looking for something a little more intimate this time? Trends in second weddings lean toward more personal, meaningful celebrations—think destination weddings, small gatherings in gorgeous locations, or a fun elopement followed by a fab party with friends later.

On the other hand, if you’re still itching for a big bash, who’s stopping you? If a lavish wedding feels right, go for it! This time, it’s all about what feels most authentic to your relationship, whether that’s a casual backyard BBQ or a black-tie soirée.

Avoiding the Comparison Trap

We’ve all heard it: “So, what was the first wedding like?” Eye roll, right? The key here is not to fall into the trap of comparing this wedding to the last one. Every relationship is different, and so is every wedding. This one is about your new love story, not a rerun of the old one.

Feel free to embrace the differences. If your first wedding was all white-glove service and fancy traditions, maybe this time it’s more relaxed and personal. Or vice versa! There’s no rulebook saying your second (or third) wedding has to be smaller, cheaper, or less exciting.

Ultimately, the best weddings are the ones that feel like you. Whether you go all out with a grand celebration or opt for something small and heartfelt, the key is to make it reflect who you are now. Don’t worry about what anyone else thinks or expects—this is your fresh start with someone new, so own it!

Here’s a tip: add personal touches that mean something to both of you. Maybe it’s a ceremony location that’s special, a nod to your new life together, or even a fun ritual you both share. And hey, if you want to skip the whole garter toss nonsense this time around, more power to you!

At the end of the day, your second wedding doesn’t need to be as grand as the first—unless you want it to be! It’s all about what makes you and your partner happy. Whether you go big or keep it intimate, the key is to focus on celebrating this new chapter in your lives. This wedding is all about you two—so make it one to remember, in your own way.

So, go ahead and plan the wedding you really want. Grand or intimate, it’s bound to be the perfect way to say ‘I do’—again!