IT is all too easy when we think of weddings to think of the bride as a blushing young girl in the bloom of her youth and the groom as an equally inexperienced young man.

Of course, a great many couples about to be married fall into this category but they are not the only ones to contemplate matrimony.

There are probably as many who approach the event for the second or third time.

And some, indeed, may even consider entering a new marriage partnership long after retirement.

Generally speaking, these second (or more) time around weddings are quieter affairs, though not invariably so.

They do, however, have the same requirements in terms of ceremony, reception, transport and photography, all of which have to be arranged.

The couples will be concerned with what to wear, who to invite, where to live afterwards and where to go for the honeymoon.

And it's no less exciting or worrying just because the main participants are of more mature years.

Marriage does not become less of a commitment as the years advance and getting married does not become easier.

Clothes for the event will depend on the couple involved and the time of year.

A smart lounge suit for him and a pretty dress and jacket for her are the most popular options.

Most brides opt to wear a hat and their hairdresser will usually be only too happy to design a hairstyle around this.

Make-up for the older woman has to be very carefully applied if she is not to look dollish.

If she is not generally accustomed to wearing it but feels it would add to the sense of occasion, bring in experts from a beauty salon for a professional make-up artist on the wedding morning.

Invariably, 21st century weddings involve children of the bridal pair and that will mean the closest possible attention to detail.

With family harmony in mind, it's worth making whatever you do a shared event.

Keep the reception informal so youngsters can really join in - and the planning should not be left until the last moment.

The first way of involving them is usually by giving them roles such as bridesmaids, page boys, best man (or woman), flower girls and ushers.

Even if your ceremony is a civil one, it's a good excuse for them to wear extra special outfits - but make sure you all agree on what that is and that they enjoy wearing it!

You can also ask whoever is marrying you if the children can stand by your side.

This will do a lot towards making them feel included on your big day.

Draw them into the preparations even more by asking them to suggest colours, flowers and even wedding music.

You don't have to follow some outlandish ideas but the key thing is that you've helped them feel they are taking part.

Weddings are generally happy events, regardless at what time of life they take place.

The important thing about arranging them is that the couple has what they want, when and where they want it.