I Do—Times Two! Planning Tips

Having two celebrations doesn't mean one has to be a huge extravaganza. Wedding planner Sharon Naylor shares some fresh alternatives.

Photo by: Jamaica Tourist Board

• If you're both wine lovers, but have always dreamed saying "I do" in the sand, have your first ceremony on St. John at Scott Beach, and then the second at Meadowood in wine country.

• If your parents are pressing for a traditional ballroom wedding, don't deny them. Have the at-home, more relaxed garden wedding you want first, then celebrate afterward in the affair they've envisioned.

• If your family lives in California, his hails from New York and your friends are divided between both, have two separate weddings—one on each coast—rather than asking guests to travel for your big day.

• Take a cue from cultures that traditionally have three- to seven-day wedding celebrations. The first might pay homage to cultural themes that are important to one side of the family, while the second honors the other side.

Sharon Naylor is the author of Home From the Honeymoon and over 35 additional wedding books. To learn more, visit sharonnaylor.net.