There are often receptions or parties after the wedding. But I have never seen anyone wearing a bridal gown at one just so those who weren't at the wedding could see it. I'm assuming you are talking about a traditional wedding gown. But it was a small ceremony; perhaps you wore a terrific "regular" dress? If so, I absolutely would go ahead and wear it again for the party. That you wore it for your wedding doesn't mean it needs to be enshrined forever! If it's a traditional gown and veil -- well, you know your group, and we don't. So I don't know if they really are all that worked up about seeing you wearing a wedding gown, or if they will be thinking it seems a bit silly, or some of each. In any case, I assume all these people love you, so I don't think you have a problem with anyone permanently thinking anything bad. If you have your heart set on wearing your gown again, who is it hurting? I think the bigger issue is how YOU will feel. The fact that you are asking here makes me suspect that you feel uneasy about it, and if you plan to wear it, you will be second-guessing yourself from now until the party and all through the party, worried that you will feel foolish, which will reduce your own pleasure. If you wear a terrific regular outfit, you will for sure feel confident. Believe me, you will still be The Bride! Maybe wear some flowers, too. Best wishes on your marriage, and have fun at your party whatever you decide to wear.

Thanks everyone. I'll ask my daughter what she'll be wearing. Since she has the great wardrobe, maybe I'll borrow something from her. This trip is an anniversary present from the kids. We're seeing Momma Mia.

I'm not sure it's an east/west coast thing that's determining what people wear as much as it may be a social class thing. I'm on the east coast and I've been to formal events with more white collar folks and everyone was dressed very formally. And then I have been to, eg, a wake with a more blue collar group and saw cut off shorts and sandals and cowboy boots and jeans. Then there was my uncle from FL whose only apparent suit was a mustard polyester leisure suit from the 70s which he wore to his mother's funeral...I guess I can give him credit for still fitting into the thing decades later...

Such pretty dresses posted here. I love both, jojoco. I was actually leaning toward the floral for a November wedding, but both are stunning. The SPLC is so very elegant, you cannot go wrong with it. I like the advice to take both and see how you feel that day. The green and black dress your friend is wearing for the rehearsal dinner is gorgeous.