Many established relationships at some point consider a vow renewal ceremony. But what exactly in a vow renewal ceremony?
Is it the same as a wedding? Reaffirming the union and love that exists between a couple can be beautiful and can be celebrated many different ways and can incorporate traditions from a wedding or couples can get creative and include new customs as a form of implementing commitment.
As an elopement photographer, I believe the best part of a vow renewal is that children from the union can now partake in the ceremony or be in attendance.
What to wear to a view renewal ceremony?
The traditional attire seen at a wedding for the most part can be worn at a vow renewal ceremony but if the couple has had a traditional wedding in the past they may decide that less formal attire might be a better option. A woman might opt for a different color other than “wedding white,” formal gowns in blush, black, light blue and shades of ivory have been popular options for ladies renewing their wedding vows.
Men that fulfill the role of “grooms” will usually choose a traditional suit and tie as it is more informal than a tuxedo. Standard colors can include black, navy, cream, or burgundy. The attire for the ceremony should establish the mood of the event.
Location of a Vow Renewal. Where and When?
Couples can get inventive and adventurous with the locations of vow renewals since there aren’t the expectations to have a vow renewal the same way you would have a wedding. From mountain tops to beaches or even amongst desert dunes; there are no right or wrong ways to have a vow renewal ceremony. I have even captured a skiing vow renewal and it was a blast!
Often, couples will decide on an anniversary date to have their vow renewal ceremony since the meaningful date already has significance within the relationship and can re-ignite the romance within a marriage. Sometimes the couple overcome trying circumstances like infidelity, illness or financial hardship and use a vow renewal to recreate their commitment to one another.
Are there Vow Renewal Rings?
An exchange of rings at a vow renewal ceremony can look similar to that within a wedding ceremony. Options for vow renewal rings can include the same rings that the couple exchanged at their original nuptials or they can include completely different rings or a form of both. This could be exchanging stones or settings from the original wedding bands or new pieces that contain nontraditional gemstones such as amethysts, mossanite, colored diamonds or emeralds.
Is an ordained officiant required to conduct a vow renewal?
Since a vow renewal is purely for the purpose of celebration the couple will not need a officiant or a license to renew their wedding vows. Legally, the couple are already married so the ceremony can be conducted by just about anyone or be in any location. It is common for the renewal to have an “officiant-like” role to conduct the ceremony. The figurehead in this position can be a person from the clergy within the couple’s church, a wedding professional, someone that they trust within their family or an individual with experience and training in public speaking.
Writing your vows
Now the fun part! A vow renewal ceremony can’t take place without “ I Still Do” vows. There are plenty of ways to write your vows, they should reflect your love, appreciation and affection for your spouse. Here is a sample of vows below-
“ I vow to continue to support you at the best and worst of times, to love you unconditionally throughout our remaining years, to continue to show patience, kindness and loyalty to you and our family. I promise to remain a lifelong partner and companion without reservation and cherish the bond we have.”
Should we have a party?
Absolutely! Everyone likes a celebration and this is a wonderful opportunity to hire a DJ, drink, have cake and really enjoy the moment. Children of the marriage can now partake in the activities and make the event memorable. Even if the celebration is a small gathering, it is worth taking the time to include friends and family in a vow renewal ceremony.
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