Renewing Vows: A Wedding Reimagined

A vow renewal is a ceremony in which a married couple reaffirms their commitment to each other and demonstrates that their marriage vows are still sacred to them. It is a chance for couples to celebrate their relationship and is usually held on milestone wedding anniversaries. The ceremony often takes the form of a marriage ceremony, with the couple exchanging the same or new vows, and is followed by a small celebration. While there is no legal standing to this ritual, it is a way for spouses to share their love and promises with each other. Vow renewals can be as elaborate or low-key as the couple wishes and can be held anywhere, with no restrictions on location or officiant.

Location: Choose a venue that holds sentimental value, or travel to a new destination

When it comes to choosing a venue for your vow renewal, the world is your oyster! There are no rules, so you can get as creative as you like. The most important thing is to choose a location that is meaningful to you and your partner.

If you want to keep things simple, you could have a small celebration at home, or at a local church or restaurant. Or, if you want to go bigger, you could hire a venue that holds sentimental value, such as the place where you first met, or where you got engaged.

If you're feeling adventurous, why not make it a destination vow renewal and travel to a new place? This could be somewhere you've always wanted to visit, or somewhere that holds special significance for you both. You could even recreate some of your most precious wedding or honeymoon moments by returning to the location of your honeymoon.

If you're looking for a tropical destination, there are many all-inclusive resorts in the Caribbean that offer vow renewal packages, providing you with your own personal planning team to take the stress out of organising your special day.

Remember, there's no right or wrong choice when it comes to the location of your vow renewal. The most important thing is to choose a venue that feels right for you and your partner and that will allow you to celebrate your love and commitment in a meaningful way.

Guests: Opt for an intimate gathering or a larger celebration

When it comes to guests, you can opt for an intimate gathering or a larger celebration for your vow renewal. Ultimately, the guest list should include the people who are most important to the couple and who have been a significant part of their journey together.

If you're having an intimate vow renewal ceremony, it's best to include only close friends and family. This can be a good option if you want to make the event more personal and meaningful. It can also be more cost-effective and allow you to focus on creating a special experience for your closest loved ones.

On the other hand, if you're planning a larger celebration, you can invite extended family and a wider circle of friends. This option can make the event feel more like a grand reunion or party. It can also be a good choice if you want to include people who may not have been able to attend your original wedding.

When deciding on the guest list, consider the venue capacity and the overall vision for your vow renewal. If you have a specific venue in mind, make sure to take into account its capacity when determining the number of guests.

Keep in mind that there is no right or wrong answer when it comes to the number of guests. A vow renewal can be as intimate or as large as you want it to be. The most important thing is to create a meaningful and memorable experience that celebrates your love and commitment.

Attire: Wear whatever you like—you don't have to wear white or a suit

When it comes to attire, there are no rules for vow renewals. You can wear whatever you like and don't have to wear white or a suit. It's entirely up to you and your partner, and the look and feel of your celebration. The only piece of advice to consider is discussing what you're wearing with your partner ahead of time so that one of you doesn't end up feeling over or underdressed.

Some people try to recreate their wedding as much as possible for this often-small ceremony, while others go for a more simple or unique look and style. It's perfectly fine for brides to wear their old wedding gowns, which signify the start of a beautiful union. If your dress still fits, this could be a perfect option! Otherwise, you can go for a cocktail dress or a formal evening gown (in whichever colour you like), while your partner complements you perfectly with an expertly tailored suit. What you wear depends on how formal your ceremony will be, and this depends on individual taste.

A veil isn't necessary for a vow renewal, but you can wear one if you wish. You can go for a hat or flowers in your hair, which is just as lovely. A partner wearing their wedding day tuxedo can spice things up with some new accessories like cufflinks, gifted jewellery, and a new tie or vest.

If you're having a vow renewal ceremony, you can simplify things a bit by choosing not to go the route of the white dress but still want to look elegant and as amazing as you did on your big day.

Officiant: Anyone can lead the ceremony, or you can forgo an officiant

A vow renewal ceremony is a chance for a married couple to reaffirm their commitment to each other and their marriage. It is a symbolic celebration of their love and does not have any legal standing. This means that there is no need for a registered or official officiant to preside over the ceremony.

Since a vow renewal is a ceremony with no legal obligations, you can choose anyone to lead the ceremony. This could be a friend or family member with a special connection to the couple, or even one of your children. If you would prefer a more traditional officiant, you can choose your local pastor or a hired wedding professional.

If you are planning a private ceremony, you can choose to forgo an officiant altogether. There are no rules for a vow renewal, so you can say and do anything you wish.

Friends or family members who act as officiants often wish to present the couple with a commemorative renewal of vows certificate as a keepsake. As it is not a legal document, these certificates can be creative and personalised.

Agenda: Exchange vows and rings, with readings and music

A vow renewal ceremony is a wonderful way to celebrate a marriage and can be as elaborate or low-key as you wish. It is a chance to reaffirm your commitment to your spouse and can be turned into a full-on party, bringing together family and friends.

Readings and Music

The ceremony can include readings and well wishes from guests before the vows are exchanged. You might also like to include blessings from a presiding officiant.

Exchange of Vows

The couple will recite their vows to each other, either using the same vows from their wedding day or new vows written for the occasion. The vows can include experiences or lessons learned during the marriage, such as the joys in your lives, any hurdles overcome, and how you will continue to support each other.

Exchange of Rings

The exchange of rings is a powerful symbol of the couple's unending commitment to each other. The couple will place the rings on each other's fingers and can choose to recite ring exchange wording to solidify their commitment. This can be traditional, modern, funny, or religious. For example:

• "With this ring, I thee wed, and pledge you my love, now and forever."
• "I give you this ring as a symbol of my love, my faith in our strength together, and my covenant to learn and grow with you."
• "I give you this ring as a symbol of our love. Let it be a reminder that I am always by your side."
• "I give you this ring, which is a symbol of my love and commitment to you."

Frequently asked questions