So, you’re thinking about renewing your wedding vows? Wedding vow renewals are a heartfelt way for a married couple to celebrate their everlasting love (as well as a great excuse to throw another party!).
Did you know, a wedding vow renewal can take place any time from your wedding, up until 50 years later? But what exactly does a wedding vow renewal ceremony entail? Let us answer your most pressing questions, and give you a few simple vow renewal ideas as well.
If you’re choosing to mark the occasion on your wedding anniversary, why not explore our carefully curated selection of wedding anniversary cards created by our talented community?
Why do people renew their vows?
Without sounding too mushy, renewing your wedding vows enables you to publicly reaffirm your enduring love for each other (or to pat yourselves on the back for tolerating each other for so long!). And if you’ve had kids or grandkids since tying the knot, well, it’s a golden opportunity to show them that your marriage is not just about arguing over whose turn it is to do the dishes…
Seriously, though, renewing your vows is a profound way to acknowledge the love you share as well as the strength of your marriage. As our lives evolve, and the world around us shifts, vow renewals offer a poignant opportunity to reflect on the adventures you’ve been on and the growth you’ve experienced together.
What is a vow renewal?
A wedding vow renewal ceremony usually takes place years after your wedding day (unless you’re absolutely smitten and can’t bear to wait ages and ages). It’s like the sequel to your wedding, but without the pressure of legalities. You get to declare your undying love all over again, but this time, it’s not because the law says you have to. Some couples even hire a celebrant to add a touch of formality, just to make sure everyone knows this isn’t some casual run-of-the-mill affair.
During the ceremony you can choose to read the same vows as your last marriage or write some entirely new ones. Poetry readings, flowers, music, exchanging of gifts – the ball is in your court as to how you want the vibe to be. You can make it as casual or elaborate as you’d like.
How to renew your wedding vows?
Because the ceremony isn’t legally binding, you don’t need to obtain any documentation. You can host it wherever you want – with or without a registrar. Even if you do choose to use a registrar, they will not act in any official capacity.
As to the location, it could be at your favourite restaurant, hotel, or even in a public space such as a park. If it’s the latter, make sure to check whether there are restrictions on alcohol consumption and noise levels – especially if your friends and family are a lively bunch!
Wedding vow renewal ideas
And now for the ideas, here are just a few wedding vow renewal ideas to get you started.
1. Pick a date that’s special to you both
Make your wedding vow renewal extra special by picking a meaningful date. Whether that’s the anniversary of your marriage, or another memorable milestone such as a big birthday or the date you moved in together. Whatever date you choose, adding personal significance will bring an extra layer of magic to your vow renewal ceremony.
2. Engrave your rings
Why fork out for new rings when you can jazz up the ones you already have? Engrave them with the date of your vow renewal for a sentiment you’ll forever remember. Or if you’re the soppy sort, inscribe a short but sentimental message that signifies just how much you adore one another.
3. Choose a location you love
You might want to bring back the nostalgic memories of when you first said ‘I do’ by getting married at your original wedding venue. If you’re looking to make it into an elaborate affair, you could host it on a cruise, a vineyard, a beach, the list goes on… Or perhaps you want to keep it low key this time, opting for the simplicity and comfort of your own garden. Whether you opt for a laid-back barbecue, or a serene ceremony at a cherished spot, select a location that will etch this occasion into your memories forever.
4. Get the guests involved
There’s sure to be countless stories from the many moons you’ve spent together. After all, you’ve reached that point where your friends and family know your relationship better than they know their own Netflix passwords! So, why not let the kids, grandkids, or best friends in on the fun? They can share their hilarious tales, sentimental poems, or dramatic readings. Or, just open the floor for guests to unleash their favourite memories of you two lovebirds.
5. Gift your guests with renewal keepsakes
Want to ensure your guests never forget how utterly amazing your wedding renewal ceremony was? Think about gifting them with some keepsakes to remember the day by! We’re talking personalised candles, engraved keyrings, or heck, even photo coasters. That way, every time they take a sip of their tea, they’ll be forever reminded of you both!
6. Choose the perfect renewal officiant
Sure, you could go down the traditional route and hire a celebrant to officiate your vow renewal ceremony, but since there’s no paperwork involved, why not kick it up a notch? Consider recruiting that hilarious friend or family member who always keeps the party rolling. Just make sure they won’t embarrass you too much—after all, you want laughter, not cringe-worthy stories!
And there you have it. Your all-encompassing guide to wedding vow renewal ideas. For more wedding ideas, check out our article on DIY wedding ideas or take a look at our essential wedding planning checklist.
If you’re looking for suggestions on how to celebrate a big wedding anniversary you’ve got coming up, we’ve got plenty of those too. Take a look at our 25th wedding anniversary wishes blog as well as our tips on what to write in a 50th anniversary card.
