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Getting remarried for 1st anniversary

aja
New User

Post #1 of 3 (6798 views)

Getting remarried for 1st anniversary

My husband and I have only been married for four months, but we are already planning on getting remarried on (or around) our 1st anniversary. For the past two years, my husband has been battling a chronic skin condition which required many surgeries (ten to date) and medications. Because of his poor health, we were unable to have a "real" wedding. We finally got married so that I could closely care for my husband. We were married by my husband's uncle at his house--totally a last minute thing. We had a total of about 12 people there, unfortunately, most of our guests were from my husband's side. My mom was the only representatitve from my side. I wore a champagne colored prom-looking dress and he wore a chocolate suit. Knowing that we would plan a larger wedding in the near future, I specifically chose not to wear white. I've read a lot of posts, and it sounds like veils, bridesmaids, groomsmen, and all the other traditional things in a first marriage may be too much for a second. I really feel that we had a ceremony and not an actual wedding, so I hope to wear white and do that other fun stuff we didn't get to do. How much would be too much for the "second" time around? Would I still need to have a head table if I don't have a wedding party? What about throwing the bouquet/garter? I probably won't have a maid of honor helping me, so that's why I chose to come to this site. THANKS!

(This post was edited by the_admin on Feb 1, 2008, 8:22 PM)

Etiquette Now
WEDDING ETIQUETTE EXPERT

Post #2 of 3 (6784 views)

Re: [aja] Planning a second wedding [In reply to]

Dear Planning,

I'm sorry. What you are trying to plan is not a second wedding. You are already legally married. You will be planning a vow renewal or reaffirmation of your marriage. Please visit this page dedicated to the etiquette of vow renewals at http://www.gettingremarried.com/vow_renewal_etiquette.html

It isn't proper or viewed positively to create a celebration that resembles a wedding. You wouldn't have a wedding party or the bouquet and garter toss. The head table would be fine for just the two of you. Everyone will probably want to congratulate you for your one year anniversary because this will be viewed more as an anniversary party by your guests.

This is not viewed as a gift giving event.

Best wishes,
Rebecca Black, Etiquette Consultant
Etiquette Now
http://www.etiquettenow.com

the_admin
Remarriage Forum Moderator / Moderator

Post #3 of 3 (6783 views)

Re: [aja] Planning a second wedding [In reply to]

If you were married civilly the first time and now want to marry in the church your service could be called a blessing of your marriage. This ceremony should be treated as Rebecca suggested you treat a vow renewal.
I Do - Take Two Moderator

(This post was edited by the_admin on Jun 24, 2005, 5:01 PM)