A double couples wedding?
Typically, a marriage ceremony and reception are about one happy couple. This is true in most places, including Canada. Some people opt to have a single ceremony and celebration for two or more couples. When it’s two couples, this is what’s known as a double wedding. Close friends, siblings and other family members may do this to save money, pool resources or just for the quirkiness of it all. The TLC network once aired a program that featured one set of identical twins marrying another set of identical twins in a double wedding. The television program “Fuller House” featured a triple wedding in one of its season finales. Here are some things to consider for going this route.
Know Before You Go
Pulling off a double wedding is going to be difficult if you don’t have a close connection with the other people involved. Even if you have a sibling or bestie, you need to be sure that this is a smart idea going in. Unlike a typical ceremony, where you and your partner are calling the shots, now your special day must also consider the preferences and needs of another couple. If you’re someone who likes to plan and the other couples are less organized or prefer to play things by ear, there could be trouble well before you get to paradise.
Consider the Benefits couples
One of the biggest benefits of a double wedding is cost savings. You’ll only be paying for certain features once, such as a venue, catering and reception entertainment. If the couples are funding the wedding, then the overall costs are split, leading to further savings. If you and someone close are engaged and have the same friends and families, this allows your loved ones to save one date and plan to be at one event. A wedding of this type prioritizes the convenience of those you love, which is a good thing!
Get on the Same Page With The Other Couples
It’s idealistic to expect multiple couples to agree on everything when it comes to details, but you should have open discussion and reach a consensus on the following:
- Compromising: Each person should be clear on dealbreakers, must-haves and low-priority items. Be willing to compromise on certain details so that the event is special for all involved.
- Choosing a look: If one couple wants high fashion and another wants casual and laid back, there needs to be plenty of discussion about going with a hybrid aesthetic. You don’t want to end up with something that sounds good on paper but is ultimately unsuccessful.
- Going first: When there’s one pair tying the knot, you don’t have to figure out who marches down the aisle or exchanges vows first. Realize that between the wedding and reception, you’ll need to figure out what makes sense when there are multiple folks involved.
- Exchanging vows: It’s entirely up to the group to decide on the order, but it might be better to have one couple exchange vows at a time. Consider having each couple kiss at the same time to symbolize the various levels of unity represented in a double wedding.
- Receiving gifts: Instead of a gift registry, perhaps you could ask guests to contribute monetarily to a pool to be split among the newlyweds for honeymoon or other marriage startup expenses.
Ditch the Wedding Party
Depending on the circumstances, it might be easier to forgo having a maid of honor or best man, especially if the people who would fulfill these roles are getting married too. Remember that bridesmaids and groomsmen are usually there to help the couple before and during the big day. Having loved ones attend to multiple couples may be a huge ask. Multiple parties may be unwieldy.
Marrying multiple couples in one ceremony doesn’t have to be complicated. It allows you and others to deepen your bond and pool resources when it comes to time, talent and treasure. A successful event requires careful planning, a willingness to compromise, honesty and regular communication.
