There are plenty of reasons that couples choose to have a wedding vow renewal ceremony. Maybe there was no original wedding, but instead just a quick elopement in a time-sensitive situation. Or maybe their wedding was perfect in every way and they simply want to take the time to tell each other they are even more in love than the day they got married. Either way, vow renewal ceremonies are quickly becoming more and more popular, and for good reason: the only thing more romantic than watching two lovebirds exchange vows is watching them 30 years later, still in love as ever.
So if you’re planning on having a vow renewal ceremony (congratulations!) here are a few things to keep in mind:
1.) Use the originals. If at all possible, try and find the original vows you promised to each other. Not only is it a romantic throwback to your original wedding, but it shows that your love for each other is still as strong as it was that day. And don’t stress about using them in their entirety, it’s also perfectly acceptable to write completely new vows to signify how much you’ve grown together.
2.) Invite the right people. Vow renewals are often much more intimate than the original wedding, and since they are taking place often years after the couple has been married there are also many children to include as well.
3.) Incorporate parts of your lives. You are celebrating your love for a person that has truly lived alongside you. They have laughed and cried with you and been there through thick and thin. If you both have grown to love wine, for example, have your ceremony at a beautiful vineyard.
4.) Consider the officiant. Since a vow renewal does not change the fact that you are married, you can use literally anyone you want to officiate! That means a close friend or your oldest child can take over this very meaningful role.
5.) Choose what you’ll wear. This kind of ceremony is typically much more laid back than an actual wedding, so there’s no need to go all out and spend $4,000 on a new dress. However, just as every other aspect of this day should be a reflection of your love for each other, so should your wardrobe. Perhaps you can wear that necklace your husband gave you on your latest anniversary, or heck, maybe the two of you simply want to renew your vows in swimsuits and then hop in the pool for the rest of the day!
6.) Have fun! A vow renewal ceremony is supposed to be fun, so don’t stress if the flowers aren’t the exact color you requested or if the DJ is 12 minutes late to set up. Have your vow renewal as part of a vacation in Hawaii, or as an extravagant backyard BBQ. Have a theme party or go skiing for the weekend! No matter what you do, just make sure you both enjoy yourselves!
Lily’s Bridal – Offers Wedding Dresses, Plus Size Wedding Dresses, Prom Dresses, and Plus Size Prom Dresses. Maryland’s top Bridal Boutique. Book your appointment today to find the ONE!