Why have a Vow Renewal?
Husbands, wives, life partners across the world renew their vows for many reasons. Some of the main reasons we hear include:
· They had a massive wedding because they were forced to by their families. Years late, they decided it was all too much, and really want to reaffirm their love more intimately.
· They got married in a courthouse or eloped and totally missed out on a fun, more traditional wedding experience. Now a few years later, things have settled down and the couple wants to do something a bit more formal or celebratory.
· The couple has recently been separated or has gone through a rough spot in their marriage. Sometimes couples have such great differences that it seems as if a split is inevitable, yet they somehow pull through and work it all out.
· They have hit a big marriage milestone, like a 5, 10, 25 or 50 year anniversary. These big anniversaries are a natural time to celebrate their lasting love. Do it up the way you want!
Ultimately, there are no hard and fast rules as to when you can or can’t have your vow renewal ceremony. It is a personal decision. Whether you had limited time or money when you were first married or you or you want to celebrate a big wedding anniversary is irrelevant, a vow renewal is a great chance to reaffirm your love for each other so do it whenever you want.
The reaffirmation of vows ceremony can be as intimate or as extravagant as you want or can afford. Most vow renewal ceremonies we know of are typically more intimate so as to allow the two of you to spend time together and regroup. But again, it is a personal choice so if you want to go big and invite everyone, have a blast and celebrate in a large way, then go for it.
A 20th Anniversary Vow Renewal
Vow Renewal Do’s
This is a renewal of your vows, so planning and payment is on the couple, not on parents.
You are different people from when you first married. Create new elements or even a theme that suits you as a married couple.
Many couples have children, or even fur children. This is a great time to involve them or other family members.
Add an anniversary band, or exchange new rings. Its okay to just leave this part out too, or even just acknowledge the ones you already have.
Include a special bouquet.
Wear any color you wish, including a white dress.
Have a wedding reception-like party
Vow Renewal Don’ts:
Bachelor or bachelorette parties are really for newlyweds. A last night of freedom as a single person isn’t acceptable; you are married after all.
No wedding showers. This was typically meant to help supply the new household with items they need.
A wedding party usually are not part of a vow renewal unless you are recreating your original wedding. Although, children and grandchildren often walk with the wife and stand with the couple.
A vow renewal is not considered a gift giving situation, except for big anniversaries (25th, 50th)
Wear a wedding dress. A wife is not a bride, so a wedding dress may not fit with what you are trying to do.