Why renew wedding vows

What is a Renewal of Vows Ceremony A vow renewal ceremony is an occasion for a couple to renew the vows they made on their wedding day. Any married couple, of any age, and married for any length of time, can arrange a renewal of marriage vows ceremony Every couple has a different reason for wanting to renew their vows: It may be to hold a ceremony for family and friends after marrying abroad, to combine a renewal with a naming ceremony or just because they want to!

When should you renew your vows Although these ceremonies are often associated with a special anniversary, they can be performed at any time in your marriage. The Ceremony Just as no two married couples are the same, no ceremony to renew marriage vows will ever be the same. Where can you hold a Renewal of Vows Ceremony? The Legal Status of a Renewal of Vows Renewal of vows ceremonies are optional — they are not legal ceremonies and must not be confused with a marriage.

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What code is in the image? You can even host a vow renewal elopement just for you and your S. What matters most, though, is that your vow renewal location has sentimental ties for both of you. Plus, drivable destinations are top of mind too, as couples are still looking for a dream vow renewal destination that makes it easy for family and friends to gather together safely.

Some locations may even offer vow renewal packages, which can provide couples with everything they need in one contract think: catering, entertainment, private space, and even a wedding cake.

If you don't want to spend a lot of time wedding planning for your renewal ceremony, a pre-planned package will take all of the work out of your special celebration.

Because a vow renewal isn't a legally binding ceremony like a wedding is, virtually anyone can act as an officiant , like a clergyperson, a judge, your children, a relative or even close friends. Regardless of who you choose, work with them before the date to create a vow renewal ceremony structure. Your officiant can be as involved in your renewal of marriage vows as you'd like them to be. Perhaps you want them to open with a religious reading , a quote, or a personal story before presiding over the vow exchange.

Or, you can simply have them welcome your loved ones before you and your S. Attendants are unnecessary for a vow renewal, but you might choose to invite your original bridesmaids and groomsmen to stand up for you informally, for sentimental reasons.

They don't have to wear their original outfits again, although they definitely could for the nostalgia factor. Some couples also involve their children and grandchildren, perhaps being escorted down the aisle by them or having them perform a reading during the ceremony. The vow renewal guest list is completely up to your discretion. You might choose to have an intimate reaffirmation, inviting just close family and friends who've known you through the years. But, you can definitely throw a large party for your extended family and a wider circle of friends read: wedding reception 2.

Ready to start addressing invitations again? This is one of the most important vow renewal planning tasks—after all, you'll need to send formal invites to get the word out to your loved ones. Here's how to address your stationery :. Jonathan Smith [or Susan and Jonathan Smith]. Jonathan Smith [or Susan and Jonathan Smith] request the honor of your presence at the reaffirmation ceremony of their parents.

If the invitation is issued by close friends or relatives of the couple:. If you're not sure what to wear to your vow renewal, just about anything goes. If you'd like to repurpose your original wedding dress or tux, you can definitely do so. Or, opt for a simple vow renewal dress , like an evening gown, cocktail midi or trendy jumpsuit. Alternatively, a full tuxedo isn't necessary—though you can pull out all the stops if you'd like. A simple suit-and-tie combo with a boutonniere or button-up and slacks would also suffice.

So, you've made it this far—but what actually happens at a vow renewal ceremony? The order of events is quite simple.

And, like just about every other aspect of planning a recommitment party, the itinerary is completely up to you. You can have a full-blown second wedding if you'd like, complete with a formal ceremony, a cocktail hour, and a seated dinner with dancing and mingling.

Or, you can simply gather your loved ones for a short ceremony followed by dinner or a cocktail reception. The actual vow renewal ceremony is, of course, the most important element of the party. Since a vow renewal isn't a legally binding event, there's no need to get another marriage license. Instead, along with your officiant, you'll exchange vows , recalling what you said when you were first married. You could also vary the verbiage and write original vows. This is an opportunity for both of you to really think about how you feel about your relationship, especially if the last time you exchanged vows was decades ago.

Martha Stewart Weddings. By Blythe Copeland March 14, Save Pin More. Credit: Max Wanger. View All. Comments Add Comment. Meaningful non-religious ceremonies just for you. Why renew your wedding vows? Is a humanist wedding vow renewal ceremony for me? Funerals and Memorials Weddings and Partnerships Namings. Our website uses cookies. By continuing to browse the site you agree to our privacy policy.