Dear Annie: I am 51, and my fiance is 49. We are planning a wedding for next June. This is my first wedding and his second, and frankly, I think we are too old for the white-gown-and-veil routine.

We both come from large families and want to include everyone. Would it be OK to have a small ceremony in church and then a large reception? -- Linda in New York

Dear Linda: It is perfectly fine to have a small church wedding, followed by a large reception, but please don't let your age determine how many people you invite. This is your first time as a bride. You aren't obligated to wear a white gown and veil, but if you want the ceremony to include everyone, go right ahead.