That means many of the traditional taboos about second weddings have been discarded in favor of a contemporay approach.

And with the odds high that if you choose to marry for a second (or third, or even fourth!) time, you will be part of a "blended family", modern etiquette has to make allowances for many variations on the traditional bride-and-groom scenario.

So here are our tips and ideas for second (or encore!) marriages:

Etiquette for Second Weddings

Traditionally second weddings are a smaller affair, usually with close friends and family. Most modern encore brides dispense with the bevy of bridesmaids in favor of a single attendant.

But remember it's YOUR big day, and if you want a fairytale wedding with all the trimmings, and your budget allows for it, our advice is go for it!

The wedding service and reception are usually hosted by the bride and groom second time around, and the invitations are typically worded to inform your guests of this.

All the costs associated with encore weddings are usually paid by the bride and groom. Of course, if parents wish to make a contribution, by all means let them.

Most brides have been given away at their first wedding, so there is no need for her to be given away again. Family members, in particular children or step-children, are an excellent choice, as this gives them the opportunity to actively participate in the wedding ceremony.

Wedding Dresses for Second Weddings

No matter whether it's your first, second or fifth wedding, you still want to look beautiful, so wear something you adore and an outfit that makes you feel special.

Many second-time brides choose an elegant, more sophisticated wedding dress - often a full length or cocktail length dress in off-white, oyster or a pastel shade. Although most etiquette experts agree that a long veil and train are not appropriate for a second wedding, a matching hat or headpiece adds style. A simple but elegant tiara carefully positioned in your updo also looks fabulous and adds a special touch.

Piles of freshwater pearls surrounded by silver plated rhinestone leaves create a full, romantic headpiece - perfect for the second-time bride. Browse more beautiful headpieces and tiaras.

Second wedding ceremonies

Writing your own marriage vows for a second wedding ceremony makes it very personal and meaningful. Draw inspiration from the special relationship you share and what it means to you. Nowadays it's also becoming popular to include vows made to children who will become a part of your blended family.

Welcome your children into your new family by including them in your candle lighting ceremony. The unity keepsake candle is personalized with your names, wedding date, and your children's names.

If you plan on having a religious ceremony, begin a new family tradition by keeping ancestral records in a personalized Family Bible. In addition to family names, the cover reads: "As for me and my house, we will serve the Lord."

Second wedding gifts

Although wedding gifts are not generally expected for a second wedding, most guests delight in giving the newly married couple something. Traditional wedding gifts for the household are usually not appropriate, since the new bride and groom are generally coming from an established home.

Many couples these days are using a "money tree" or "treasure chest" at the reception, where guests can anonymously place a small cash gift, to either help the couple cover the cost of the celebration, or contribute to the honeymoon.

Here are some books we highly recommend to help you with all the challenges and joys of second marriages.

Emily Post on Second Weddings Elizabeth Post	Second Wives : The Pitfalls and Rewards of Marrying Widowers and Divorced Men Susan Shapiro Barash	Divorce & Second Marriage: Facing the Challenge Kevin T. Kelly