So, are you thinking of a double wedding?

Given that the cost of weddings is what it is, planning and paying for two weddings at the same time is more than most families can handle. Inevitably, someone will suggest, Hey, why not do a double wedding? Depending on the people involved, this can be a winning idea or a total disaster in the making. These are the pros and cons of double weddings.

There can be several significant advantages to shared weddings. The first is undoubtedly the cost. Instead of paying to entertain the same family members twice, why not save money by doing it all in one go? However, don’t expect to be able to host a wedding for two couples for the same price as a celebration for a couple. You’ll definitely need a bigger venue, and while you’ll only have food and drink costs for the bride’s family once, there will also be a guest list for each groom’s family. And of course, a bigger venue means more flowers, more clothing rentals, and possibly even a bigger band or more powerful sound system. Naturally, there will also be two wedding dresses and bridal jewelry sets. While a shared reception won’t be half the price of two solo parties, you can still realistically save about 1/4 to 1/3 on two separate events, which will add up to thousands of dollars.

It’s not just the parents of brides-to-be who may find a double wedding to be a better value. For out-of-town family members who have been invited to both events, their costs will be cut in half (except for wedding gifts). Your family will not only save money, but also time. When two sisters are planning weddings close together, it’s not just the expense of the trip that can become difficult, but also the time for two separate trips. Having an all-in-one adventure will definitely make it easier for your loved ones to attend. It will also avoid the possibility of hurt feelings when guests accept one sister’s wedding but reject the other because it is not feasible for both of them to attend.

Of course, there can be some pretty serious downsides to a double wedding. Before committing to the concept of planning a joint wedding, consider carefully how you and your sister view the world. The biggest problem is when the sister couple does not share the same vision of the perfect wedding. Do you both tend to like the same style of clothing, similar colors, the same types of places? Do they work well together, with a good balance of give and take, or is there one sister who always has to get her way? If you now both point to your sister and say, “Her!”, chances are you’ll find agreeing on wedding plans a tough ride. Also, be honest with yourself; If you really long to be the center of attention on your wedding day, how will it feel to share the spotlight?

For those sisters who ultimately decide to have a double wedding, there are a few things that can help make it all go smoothly. Agree on a unified vision for decorations and food, but each sister can still show off her individuality when it comes to her wedding dresses, jewelry sets, and bridesmaid attire. He thinks coordinated, but not paired. To avoid any argument, the older sister’s name goes first on the invitation and she exchanges her vows first. Work with her officiant to weave the two sets of vows into a single ceremony to save your guests from having to endure two full ceremonies in a row. Once you get to the reception, a double wedding can make for one big, wonderful party, so make sure you enjoy it to the fullest!