In planning a blended family wedding, you should realize that there is little relationship between the elaborateness of your second wedding, and the endurance of your marriage commitment. Couples with children are very interested in making their respective children feel just as important and included as the bride and groom on the big day. There are some wonderfully creative ways to get your kids involved and excited about a new chapter in life.
Second wedding cake
A friend of mine was planning her second wedding and was looking for meaningful ways to include her two young sons and her fiance’s young daughter. One of her clever ideas was to let the kids design the wedding cake. Genius! Her actual wedding cake is pictured below – the two boys created the blue and green layers on the bottom and the little girl created the dainty pink layer on top. Each child is uniquely represented and has an important role in planning the wedding.
Photo courtesy of Marion Ruzecki
Sand Ceremony
Another great way to get children involved in a blended wedding is by having a Sand Ceremony, sometimes called a Unity Sand Ceremony. It offers a symbolic, visually poignant moment that can add not only a personalized feel but a little fun for the kids in an otherwise formal affair. Each child choosing a favorite color of sand is a great way to get them involved and excited about planning and participating in the upcoming wedding.
Blended Family Wedding Vows
Personalized wedding vows are also a touching way to help your children feel included and very much a part of the wedding.
Groom: I, ______want you to know how much I cherish your mother and how much I greatly appreciate the opportunity to share in your lives as well. Over the last few years I fallen in love with idea of us being a family and can’t wait to start a new life with you. I will be there for you, in whatever you may need. I will cherish your friendship and respect you. My intentions are not to replace anyone, but be an addition to your life.
Bride: I, _______ love you and your father with all my heart and will live the rest of my life with my very best attentions to make your life full and happy. I will listen to your needs and do my best to fulfill them. I will trust, support and respect you. My intentions are not to replace anyone, but to be an addition to your life.
Wedding Officiant: Do you ________ (Children’s names), promise to love, support and respect your new family?
Children: I do
Ladies and Gentlemen, I now present to you for the very first time – the Stranger family – Joe, Maddy, Tina and Missy
