The renewal of wedding vows is a celebration that some couples have, usually on or around their wedding anniversary. Although this event is considered to be a kind of second wedding between the same two people as the first, there are a few key differences between a wedding and the party and joviality that surround [...]

The renewal of wedding vows is a celebration that some couples have, usually on or around their wedding anniversary. Although this event is considered to be a kind of second wedding between the same two people as the first, there are a few key differences between a wedding and the party and joviality that surround the renewal of your vows. The most important key to remember is that renewing your vows is all about the shared love that has lasted long after your marriage vows were first uttered. So, when planning to renew your vows and celebrate your marriage, remember the motivation behind your event, rather than focussing on throwing an elaborate Wedding Number Two.

Renewing your vows differs from your actual wedding in the following ways:

• You will not wear a traditional white wedding dress or veil. This attire has connotations of being pure and virginal, which does not apply years into your marriage. You can, however, wear any other attire that you like – including formal wear.
• It would not be appropriate to have bridesmaids, groomsmen, a best man, maid of honour, flower girl or ring bearer. However, your children or grandchildren may be included in other ways, such as serving the food, welcoming guests, and so on.
• There would definitely be no gift registry; this would almost certainly be considered to be rude by your guests. Many guests will bring gifts anyway out of courtesy. However, if you feel strongly about not getting gifts, consider asking guests to donate money to a specific charity in lieu of gifts. This too would have to be worded carefully so as not to give the impression that gifts were actually expected.
• This is not a legal ceremony, so a legal officiant would not be necessary.
• You will be responsible for paying for this event, unlike a wedding for which parents often contribute, if they are able.

The advantages that a renewal of vows party present when compared to a wedding include:

• It is cheaper than a formal wedding ceremony and reception.
• You are under no obligation to invite any friends and / or family that you do not want to be there. Usually, you will only invite those with whom you enjoy sharing special occasions.
• You can choose anyone to do your talk and “ceremony” as it is not a legal affair. Choose a friend, parent or child to fulfil this special role. This involves those dearest to you in a very memorable and meaningful way.
• The party around renewing your vows can have any theme and style – whether formal, casual, grand or intimate. There are no rules as there are no expectations around the scale and size of such events, unlike weddings.
• This celebration will give you the opportunity to revise your vows, possibly saying ones that you have each written yourself, based on the years that have passed since your original ones.
• You can choose absolutely any venue in which to throw your bash.

In addition to expressing your ongoing love and devotion to one another, this is also the opportunity to have the day of your dreams; even if it is the second time around.

Photo Courtesy of Totem Travel