Boomer Weddings
By Krista Dunk
So you're a Boomer getting married. Congratulations. Whether you're 41 or 65, some things about weddings never change. However, if you are a Boomer getting married, there’s a probability this isn't your first wedding. Second and third weddings tend to have a different focus than first weddings do.
Trend for Smaller Weddings:
"For my second marriage, the guest list was only about 55 people. It was wonderful having an intimate setting with only our most precious relationships there, instead of throwing a huge event. The day was very special for everyone," said Trish Ferguson
We've noticed a trend in the weddings of couples who are getting re-married. There tends to be a different focus, a change in wedding priorities. Somehow couples experiencing second or third weddings gain a new perspective. It's not about the gown that costs $2000. Urging your bridesmaids to lose 20 pounds before the wedding isn’t important. Worrying about a child interrupting your serene ceremony environment may actually crack a smile instead of breaking a sweat. It's about celebrating the love you have for each other and planning for your future together.
Some decide to keep their wedding and receptions more intimate and small. When you have a smaller guest list, you can cherish each guest more by having time to spend with them. It's easier to eliminate inviting peripheral acquaintances by eliminating all peripheral acquaintances. Most importantly, you can focus on the fact that you're getting married, rather than focusing on planning a huge event and adding excess stress to your lives.
Trend for Large Weddings:
Wanting to keep a guest list small and intimate is not always the case with subsequent weddings.
"My first marriage, we didn't even have a wedding. For my second marriage, there was a wedding but it was very minimal. I finally feel like I can have the wedding of my dreams with the man of my dreams now. Third time's the charm and I can't wait," said Teresa Worthy.
Some people may feel like for their previous wedding(s) they got ‘jipped.’ You remember what your wedding was like before, and now know what you would have done differently. Re-marriages give the opportunity to incorporate your best ideas and all the things you wish to change compared to previous weddings. Most couples will jointly create their own wedding priorities.
For example:
• I care about having great photography, but we don't really need a hired DJ
• This time I want a simple cake, but full catering
• We should write our own vows
Each couple will have certain aspects that are more important to them and others that are more flexible. Your past wedding experiences help shape these values and priorities.
Other Differences in Boomer weddings:
You'll probably have older children who will be involved in the ceremony, and possibly want to help with the planning too. This is something you probably didn’t have to consider previously. Get them on board with the planning process and make them feel like they're a critical part of your special day (because they are, of course). Also, the process of planning a wedding can strengthen the relationship a son or daughter will have with their new step-parent.
Creating Memorable Times for All:
Even though there may be a different focus on subsequent weddings, quite a few things are still common to all. For example, everyone wants their wedding to be memorable -- for themselves and for guests. Have an event to remember.
• Create your own vows to each other
• Make your own gown
• Allow a good friend to make a special toast
• Sing a karaoke song to your new spouse
It's still your special day, so enjoy it to the fullest. Photos, video, keepsakes, cards, and other items help couples fondly remember their day.
The Budget:
No matter what decade it is, couples always have some sort of wedding budget. The wedding budget is inescapable, no matter if it's a low-cost, small ceremony to an elaborate, over-the-top event; it's all about what you value most for your wedding's services. Perhaps you feel having a modest wedding and a luxurious honeymoon is what you want. Jointly decide on your priorities and go from there. If you're looking for ways to save money, yet still have a wonderful wedding, check out our Blog for tips and ideas at
Wedding Tips. You can have a great wedding even if you choose not to spend a fortune.
Ambience:
Weddings also tend to fit the couple's personalities, whether that means fun, elegant, simple, spiritual, or generous, etc. Every couple wants to make their wedding day uniquely theirs, while celebrating their love and valuing guests. Will your wedding ceremony and reception have a sweet ambiance? One that honors God? A setting right out of a Martha Stewart magazine? A party feel with lots of loud fun? Whatever you decide upon, make it fit you as a couple.
Boomers are a large segment of the population who know what they want, and typically have the money to spend if they choose to do so. Enjoy your planning process, the wedding day and most importantly... Your new marriage.