Inviting Your Ex Partner To Your Wedding

Inviting Your Ex Partner To Your Wedding amongst the royal and celebrity A list is not uncommon! What is the reason for this? If they are such good friends why did they separate in the first place? How does the new partner feel about this? What type of atmosphere does this create? Could you imagine anything worse or would you agree to such a request for your partner’s ex to attend your wedding?

Reasons For Inviting Your Ex Partner To Your Wedding:

- to make a public statement that you have moved on
- to protect the interests of any children involved in the previous relationship
- to protect financial interests (a harmonious relationship may mean more reasonable financial requests)
- to ensure the new partner realizes that the ex’s, and/or their family, will always be a part of your life
- it makes for better publicity to be seen in a positive light

Inviting Your Ex Partner To Your Wedding – Who Does This:

The most famous example of inviting ex-partners must be that of Prince Charles when he married Camilla Parker-Bowles. Allegedly there were no less than three ex love interests of Charles among the guests. Also attending was Camilla’s ex-husband and his new wife.

Ironically, Camilla Parker-Bowles and her then husband Andrew were guests at Prince Charles wedding to the Late Diana, Princess of Wales. Princess Anne, ex-love of Andrew, attended his wedding to Camilla Parker-Bowles.

Jennifer Garner on the other hand, refused to let Ben Affleck invite any of his previous love interests to their wedding. It remains to be seen whether Penny Lancaster will continence Rod Stewart inviting his ex Rachael Hunter to their future wedding.

Etiquette For Inviting Your Ex Partner to Your Wedding:

- both parties (bride and groom) should agree
- the bride and groom’s families and bridal party should be forewarned
- the ex’s current partner should also be extended an invitation
- sensitivity should be paid to the seating arrangements, particularly at the reception
- there should be no “ex” jokes made by the best man
- if children are involved particular reference should be made to welcome them into their new family unit, whilst not dismissing the old
- if unsure whether or not to invite your ex, ask yourself the question: are you likely to remain friendly/in-touch with them in five years time?

Finally, I would suggest that you should be absolutely sure how the ex is likely to behave at your wedding. Given that weddings are emotional at the best of times and stir a range of feelings, it would be very embarrassing to receive a “tirade” when your guests are asked: “is there any known impediment why this man should not take this woman as his lawfully wedded wife”. Similarly, the consumption of alcohol can also lesson an individuals inhibitions!