Ideas for a Family Wedding Ceremony
Getting married for the second time can be just as exciting as the first time. One of the primary differences, though, is that there are additional people to get involved in the ceremony. When you and your future spouse have children from previous marriages, it can help you blend the families together more effectively when you have a family wedding ceremony.
Put Your Children on the Invitation
Invitations for second weddings typically differ from the traditional invitations. In many cases, the bride and groom will completely leave their parents’ names off the invitations because the parents are often not as involved in the second wedding. If you will be holding a family ceremony, consider adding your children’s names in place of the parents to make them an official part of the ceremony.
Say Vows to the Children
Combining two families into a blended family is not easy in a majority of situations. There are differing parenting styles, additional parents outside the marriage and children who are used to having their parents to themselves. During the family wedding ceremony, you and your future spouse will share vows that bind the two of you together. Don’t stop there. Write vows to your future step-children and address how you will strive to be there for them, help them when they need it and be a friend. Most importantly, avoid taking over the parenting role.
Give Them a Gift
Don’t forget your future step-children when you are purchasing gifts for the wedding party and your future spouse. If you want them to truly feel special to you, buy them a gift that means something to them and shows what an important part of your family they will be. It often means more to purchase something of interest to them, rather than the traditional wedding trinkets.
A family wedding ceremony is a great way to start your life as a blended family off on the right foot. Blending a family is rarely a seamless effort. Everyone has to put forth the right effort to create a unity that will keep everyone happy. Involving everyone in the wedding ceremony offers a solid start, helping each member of your new family feel important.
Are you planning a family wedding ceremony? Contact us for the advice you need.