Planning A Wedding For Later In Life

Planning a wedding for an older couple can be a unique challenge, as most wedding tips are aimed at younger couples. However, it is important to remember that love can be found at any stage of life, and that should be celebrated. Planning a wedding later in life can bring up bittersweet emotions, especially if family members have passed away. It is important to focus on the relationship as much as the wedding, and to consider what is best for the couple rather than a happily ever after performance.

Outfits

Planning a wedding for an older couple can be an exciting time, but it can also present unique challenges. One of the most important aspects of the day is the outfits.

For the bride, a wedding dress that is modest and subtle with lace and other intricate details is a popular choice for older brides. A relaxed halter neckline and body-skimming silhouette in creamy white satin is a chic option, while a plunging back can add a subtly sexy statement. The Becca Dress is another great option for older brides, with its modern bias-cut silhouette and adjustable straps. It is crafted in heavy satin and can be styled with a matching headband.

If you're looking for something with a vintage feel, a tea-length gown inspired by 1950s fashion is a timeless choice. This style often features a flared midi skirt and pockets, which are both practical and stylish. For a more dramatic look, consider a dress with diamanté and pearl trims, and match with crystal flower pearl earrings.

For the groom, a classic suit in a neutral colour such as grey or navy is always a safe choice. A waistcoat or vest can add a touch of elegance, while a bow tie or pocket square can be used to add a pop of colour. It's important to consider the comfort of the groom, especially if it's a warm day.

Ultimately, the outfits should reflect the personality and style of the couple. It's important to feel comfortable and confident on your wedding day, so choose outfits that make you feel like the best version of yourself.

Registry

When it comes to planning a wedding for an older couple, it's important to remember that the wedding industry often ignores this demographic, focusing instead on younger couples. This can make older couples feel invisible.

If the couple wants a registry, there are a few things to consider. Firstly, what items would they like to include? For older couples, it's likely that they already have many of the traditional registry items, such as kitchen appliances and homeware. Instead, they might want to include more unique or personalised items that reflect their interests and hobbies.

Another option is to consider a honeymoon registry, where guests can contribute to the couple's honeymoon fund or specific experiences during their trip. This can be a great way to ensure the couple has a memorable and enjoyable honeymoon, especially if they haven't had the chance to travel extensively before.

If the couple already has everything they need, they could suggest charitable donations instead of gifts. This allows guests to give back to a cause that is important to the couple, and it can be a meaningful way to celebrate their wedding.

Finally, the couple might decide that they don't want a registry at all. This is perfectly acceptable, and they can simply inform their guests that their presence at the wedding is gift enough. It's important to remember that the focus of the wedding should be on the couple and their relationship, rather than the gifts they receive.

Wedding size

When planning a wedding for an older couple, it is essential to consider the couple's preferences and what is best for their relationship. The focus should be on the relationship as much as the wedding itself. This may involve having difficult conversations and normalising talking about challenging topics.

Older couples may have experienced the loss of family members, which can make weddings bittersweet. As a result, they may prefer a smaller, more intimate wedding with only their closest friends and family. A smaller wedding can be more manageable and allow the couple to focus on their relationship and each other.

On the other hand, some older couples may want to celebrate their love with a larger wedding, inviting extended family and friends. This can be a chance to reconnect with loved ones and create new memories. Ultimately, the decision on wedding size should be based on what the couple feels comfortable with and what aligns with their vision for their special day.

Family members who have passed

When planning a wedding for an older couple, it's important to remember that weddings can be bittersweet, especially if family members have passed away. Older couples are more likely to have experienced such a loss, and this can be a difficult topic to discuss. To start the conversation, a couple's therapist can help.

Dr Charnas points out that "this time around, the focus should be on the relationship as much as the wedding". It's important to consider what's best for the relationship, rather than getting caught up in the "happily ever after" performance. Wedding planning can shine a light on any issues in a relationship, so it's crucial to normalise talking about difficult things. Having slightly off-putting interactions now can prevent more stressful conversations in the future.

When it comes to the wedding day itself, there are a few ways to honour family members who have passed away. One option is to include a memorial table or display with photos and mementos of loved ones. This can be a special way to remember those who are no longer with us and can provide comfort to the couple and their guests. Another idea is to light a candle in memory of those who have passed away. This can be a simple yet meaningful way to honour their memory.

Additionally, the couple may want to consider including a special reading or poem during the ceremony that reflects on the importance of family and the impact of those who are no longer with us. This can be a touching way to acknowledge their presence in spirit. Finally, the couple may want to consider incorporating a moment of silence or reflection during the ceremony to honour their loved ones. This can be a powerful way to remember those who have passed away and can provide a sense of peace and closure.

Relationship issues

Planning a wedding for an older couple can be a unique challenge. While some wedding advice is timeless, there are certain issues that are more likely to affect older couples. For example, older couples are more likely to have experienced the loss of family members, which can make the wedding a bittersweet occasion.

Dr Charnas, a couples' therapist, recommends that older couples focus on their relationship as much as the wedding. She encourages couples to talk about difficult things and consider what's best for their relationship, rather than getting caught up in the "happily ever after" performance.

Wedding planning can shine a light on any issues in a relationship, so it's important to be prepared to have challenging conversations. A couples' therapist can help you to start these discussions if you're unsure how to begin.

Consider whether a prenup is necessary and how to approach this topic with your partner. While it may not be an easy conversation, it's better to have it now than to face a more stressful situation in the future.

Frequently asked questions