Planning A Vow Renewal: A Guide To Wedding Bliss

Planning a wedding vow renewal is a chance to celebrate your marriage and reaffirm your commitment to your partner. While it's similar to planning a wedding, vow renewals are more unique and meaningful, and you shouldn't get caught up in the same kind of planning. First, choose a location, date and time, and consider whether you want to renew your vows on your wedding anniversary or another meaningful date. Then, decide on a venue, keeping your budget, the venue capacity and available amenities in mind. You can wear your original wedding outfits or something new, and there are no rules when it comes to attire. Finally, book your vendors at least 2-4 months in advance.

Choosing a location, date and time

Vow renewals are a chance for couples to reaffirm their commitment to each other and celebrate their enduring love. When choosing a location, date and time, it's important to remember that this is different from a wedding. Natasha Anakotta of American Marriage Ministries says: "The most important thing to remember is not to get caught up in 'wedding planning' again. Vow renewal ceremonies should be unique and meaningful while wholly re-committing yourselves to each other."

A popular option is to renew your original vows on the same day as your wedding anniversary. If that's not possible, or you prefer another day, pick a date that has meaning to you as a couple and one that's easier for guests to attend (for instance, a weekend versus a weekday).

When choosing a venue, consider your budget, the venue capacity, and available amenities. For some couples, an outdoor space is a must. It's also important to book at least 2-4 months in advance to ensure vendors can work your event.

What to wear

When it comes to what to wear for a wedding vow renewal, there are no rules. You can wear your original wedding outfits if you still love them and they still fit, or you can pick out something new that reflects your current style. You can still go with a wedding look and do a white dress or a suit, or do something more unique and fun. It's best to match your attire to the formality of the event.

Photography

Planning a wedding vow renewal is a chance to reaffirm your commitment to your spouse and celebrate your enduring love. It is important to remember that this is different from a wedding, and not to get caught up in 'wedding planning' again.

When it comes to photography, it is recommended to work closely with a professional photographer to create a fun and unique experience. This is an opportunity to capture meaningful moments and create lasting memories. Here are some tips to consider:

• Choose a photographer whose style and approach resonates with you. Look for someone who understands your vision and can help you feel comfortable and relaxed in front of the camera.
• Discuss your expectations and ideas with the photographer. Share any specific moments or details you want to be captured, such as intimate exchanges, emotional reactions, or unique decorations.
• Consider the location and timing of your vow renewal. The photographer can help you scout for picturesque backdrops and suggest the best times of day for flattering natural light, ensuring your photos are visually stunning.
• Think about incorporating props or themes that reflect your personalities and interests. Whether it's a whimsical outdoor setting with fairy lights or a playful beach backdrop with colourful umbrellas, these elements can add a unique twist to your photos.
• If you have a specific theme or colour palette for your vow renewal, communicate this to the photographer. They can use this information to suggest complementary backdrops, poses, and editing styles to create cohesive and aesthetically pleasing images.
• Finally, don't be afraid to be yourself and embrace the moment. The most authentic and heartfelt photos often come from genuine emotions and interactions. Trust your photographer to capture the beauty of your love story.

Inviting guests

When it comes to inviting guests to your wedding vow renewal, it's important to remember that this is not a wedding. Vow renewals are different, and you should focus on making the event unique and meaningful to you and your spouse.

That being said, you'll want to ensure that your chosen date is convenient for your guests. While you might choose a date that holds a special meaning for you and your spouse, such as your wedding anniversary, it's also worth considering whether a weekend date might be easier for your guests to attend.

The venue you choose will also impact your guests' experience. Consider your budget, the venue's capacity, and the amenities on offer. If an outdoor space is important to you, factor this into your decision.

Finally, don't forget to book your vendors in advance—at least 2-4 months ahead of time—to ensure they can accommodate your event.

How to make it unique and meaningful

Vow renewals are a chance to celebrate your marriage and reaffirm your commitment to your spouse. While it's similar to a wedding, it's important to remember that it's not a wedding, so you shouldn't get caught up in wedding planning. Instead, focus on making the ceremony unique and meaningful to you and your spouse.

To make your vow renewal unique and meaningful, consider the following:

• Choose a date and venue that are meaningful to you as a couple. For example, you could renew your vows on your wedding anniversary or pick a date that's easier for guests to attend, like a weekend. If you have your heart set on an outdoor space, make sure to consider the weather when selecting a date.
• Work with a photographer to create a fun and unique experience in an amazing destination. This will ensure that your special day is documented and that you have beautiful photos to look back on.
• Wear something that reflects your current style. You can put on your original wedding outfits if they still fit, or you can pick something new. There are no rules here! You can still go with a wedding look, like a white dress or a suit, or you can do something more unique and fun.
• Plan the event together with your spouse, deciding on the formality of the event and how you want to look.
• Remember that there's no "right" reason to host a vow renewal. It's all about honouring your commitment to your spouse, no matter what stage of your marriage you're in.

Frequently asked questions