Love the Second Time Around

It’s hard to believe that February is already here. I don’t know about you, but I’m always a bit stunned whenever I turn the calendar page to a new month asking myself “Where does the time go?” Of course, with our super-busy lives and multiple to-do lists it’s a given that tempus fugit!

Now, here’s an interesting question posted by lovely BG reader, Joy. If a woman married a year ago, got divorced, and is marrying again, is it proper for her to have another big reception and invite the same guests? Frankly, I don’t think so. (And neither did most of the editors I asked in an informal office poll. We may edit a bridal mag but we’re realists, too!) Let’s face it, love may be sweeter the second time around but it’s also expensive for everyone else involved. I’m sure guests spent money on shower and wedding gifts a year ago and to be expected to do the same within such a short span of time is a bit much—especially with most of us being very cautious about spending these days. If I were one of the guests, I would be thrilled that my friend had found love again but not so thrilled that I would be shelling out more mullah. If the bride is determined to have a big, blow out affair then the proper thing to do is not to have another shower and to let guests know that the honor of their presence is the only gift she needs.

Which brings to mind one of my own friends, Donna, whose first wedding had all the works: a bridal shower, a huge reception at a banquet hall with several hundred guests and a large bridal party (including me as a bridesmaid). Fast-forward eleven years later, post-divorce, and Donna is marrying again (yeah!). But this time Donna (certainly not the Prima Donna) doesn’t have a shower and her reception for about 70 people (sans bridal party) is held aboard a beautiful yacht that sails around glittering Manhattan at night. It was fun, chic and elegant and in my book, done the right way.

So, let me know how you feel about this or if you’ve ever encountered a similar situation. And if you have anything on your mind or something I can help you with, please let me know! I love hearing from you.

Posted by Diane at 11:48 a.m.