The answer to who pays for a second wedding is the couple itself. We will discuss the proper etiquette for second weddings to avoid false expectations.
We recommend browsing our blog for everything related to wedding payments to guide couples in deciding who must shoulder various wedding costs. For example, read who pays for the wedding shower and more.
Who Pays For Your Second Wedding?
The couple should be the one paying for their second wedding. Unlike the first wedding, where the parents traditionally shoulder the costs, the couple should not expect their families to cover the expenses for the second wedding.
This is because the people often getting married the second time are expected to be older and more financially capable than couples getting married for the first time. That being said, some parents and family members may still contribute to the overall finances of the second wedding.
You can accept their offer to help with the second wedding expenses but never obligate them. If you can’t pay for your second wedding, it’s time to evaluate yourself and put the event on hold.
Do Parents Of The Bride Pay For Second Wedding?
The bride’s parents traditionally pay for most of the expenses at the wedding. However, this expectation no longer applies if the bride gets married for the second time.
While you can graciously accept the offer of your parents, especially if they’re capable of financially helping you, expect that you and your partner should pay for your second wedding. Couples getting married the second time should think the second wedding through, especially regarding finances.
And of course, it’s only tasteful not to be picky when you’re being helped financially. So, if the budget only allows for a small second wedding, then accept it as is rather than forcing your parents to help you afford your desired celebration.
Do You Give Money For A Second Wedding?
Giving money for the second wedding is entirely optional. It’s more traditional to give a gift to the first wedding and those who did can choose not to on the second one.
However, if you’re close to the couple or if you feel like they’ll appreciate the money or gift for their second wedding, it’s perfectly acceptable to do so. But on the couple’s side, please never ask for money or impose that your guests must give you gifts.
A more tasteful way if you truly can benefit from extra cash is to use a cash fund registry site. But again, don’t make the guests feel that they’re obligated to give you money.
How much money do you give for a second wedding?
While it’s not necessary, cash amounting to $50 and over is acceptable to give for a second wedding. You can also assess your closeness to the couple to decide the amount you’ll provide for their second wedding.
Do you register for gifts for a second wedding?
Couples having a second wedding typically don’t have a gift registry anymore. And if you also believe that you don’t need gifts, here is how to say no gifts please on the wedding invitation.
What Is Proper Etiquette For A 2nd Wedding?
How to involve children or partners from the previous relationship
You, your partner, or both of you may have kids from previous relationships, and it’s best to tell them beforehand about your plan of getting married. Of course, if you’ve been together for a long time, the wedding might not surprise them, but still, reassure them that they can ask you questions if they have any.
You also want the children of both parties not to feel overlooked, so have them in different roles in the wedding as long as they’re comfortable. And if you’re still on good terms with your ex-partner, you can consider inviting them as well.
When inviting your ex-partner to your second wedding, there are various factors to consider. But people vary, and nowadays, blended families are more civilized.
Who should be invited to your second wedding?
The second wedding is typically smaller, so your guest list is usually composed of close relatives and friends only. This can include the wedding party and immediate family members of the couples.
However, please assess your relationships with who you’re inviting, especially if they were also parts of your previous marriage. There are situations where a friend or family might feel unsupportive, and it will be uncomfortable to have them in your second wedding.
What Is The Average Cost Of A Second Wedding?
A second wedding typically costs $14,000, lower than the expected expenses on the first wedding. This is because it’s usually less extravagant and the number of guests is smaller.
It’s crucial to discuss your budget with your partner because asking your families to pay for your second wedding is not tasteful. To save on the expenses, you can consider a less formal event in a low-key venue rather than splurging on something very formal that is pricier to hold.
Conclusion
And that’s it! The answer to who pays for a second wedding is the couple themselves as it’s tacky to force your families to shoulder the wedding expenses.
Couples getting married the second time are usually more mature and financially capable. And when it comes to etiquette, make sure that your children are not overlooked and assess your relationships with your exes if you want to invite them.