Second Lining
A practice steeped in New Orleans tradition, second lining refers to the conglomerate of people who join in a procession behind the "first liners" or those such as a bride or groom who are an integral part of whatever it is that is being celebrated. Teamed with music and sometimes colorful scarves, beads or costumes second lining is a way to march down the street proudly proclaiming your newly married status with your guests by your side to create your own mini-parade. All you need is a brass band, jubilant dancing in the streets, some bright colors and a reason to celebrate.
To get guests in the mardi gras mood you can coordinate your second line parade to take place between your ceremony and reception locations and start the cocktail hour early with a celebratory glass of champagne in every hand as they parade.
Whether you are roaming the streets of the French Quarter where second lining has become a wedding staple, frolicking in the sun-dappled beachside towns of Florida, or marching down the busy streets of New York where second lining might seem a little odd, it's a fun and fabulous tradition that will get your party started on the right foot.
It's also a wonderful photo opportunity, and a chance to get some great shots of your wedding guests as they let their hair down and truly celebrate your wedding day. Second lining is also a great way to rid yourself of all the stress and nerves that come with planning a wedding. With the ceremony behind you, the deed is done and it's time to cut loose.
Whether the sun or the rain is beating down, protect yourself and your guests with some colorful and fabulous parasols and umbrellas, another second line tradition, which guests can take home with them as a lasting memory and wedding favor.
If aged members of your entourage don't have the capacity to take part in the parade activity, you can still include them in the fun by having them at the beginning or at the end of your line with mardi-gras beads in hand to present to the celebrants as they leave the ceremony location or enter the reception locale.
If your ceremony and reception take place in the same venue, and space is limited, fear not, you can still enjoy the second line tradition. Simply get your DJ or musician to get the music started, pick up some napkins off the tables to wave in the air, and parade through the venue itself.
©2008 Weddingstar Inc.
