How to plan a vow renewal ceremony – Where do I start?
Whether you’re planning your own vow renewal ceremony or someone else’s ceremony. Make sure you have a plan and stick to it. Keep in mind: that the vow renewal ceremony is not as detailed as the original wedding. But it does need planning and attention to detail.
The first step in the process is to understand the WHY behind the ceremony. Some couples feel this is a great idea and want to celebrate their years of marriage. Letting the world know – they’d do it all AGAIN. If that is the case, then celebrate their years of LOVE and DEDICATION with each other.
The next few steps would include choosing a location, vow ceremony, guest list, and party layout. These are the meat and potatoes of the event. Be patient: It will take some time in planning your perfect vow renewal ceremony.
Having a few people helping you with these steps is very helpful. Don’t be afraid to delegate responsibilities to trusted individuals. But still, oversee the entire ceremony. 1-2 people per mentioned step would be ideal. But if you want to recruit more help then by all means feel free.
Now to get started…
Vow renewal location ideas
This can be done in a variety of ways. First, think about locations that have meaning to the couple. For some, it may be a location where they first met. For others, it may be a location they visit often or has other significant meaning.
OR it can be a local hall, restaurant, or home where you decide to have your vow renewal ceremony location. Either way, make sure it’s a night the couple will never forget.
If you are having trouble identifying a location try doing a quick Google search or check out Yelp. Yelp can be a great way to see reviews, and pictures, and get company information. Also, companies like Venue Report are a great online tool you can use to find a location.
In a previous article (Vow Renewals: How to plan the perfect ceremony). I wrote about the option of not having a big vow renewal ceremony. Instead, you might think about having an elegant dinner with family and friends.
If budget is an issue, don’t feel that you can’t make this event meaningful. Nowadays, people are doing more with less. It’s not about how much money is spent but more so it’s about the impact you want to create.
Vow renewal wording
These ceremonies can be as extravagant or simple as you’d like them to be.
The vows are focused on the celebration of your commitment to each other. The wording is designed to highlight the love these two people have for one other. Sharing with the audience why it’s important they’re partaking in this beautiful moment.
Pronouncement: XXX and XXX, having witnessed your vows of affirmation with all who are assembled here, and by the authority of love itself, I do affirm that you have expressed your desire to continue as husband and wife.
Kiss: You may seal your vows, and confirm your continued commitment and love for each other, with a kiss.
Presentation: Ladies and gentlemen, it is my honor to present to you, once again as husband and wife: XXX and XXX. They will now have their first dance “AGAIN”
Most people have a healthy fear of public speaking. However, I would recommend the couple say a few words to each other. This doesn’t have to be a 10 minutes speech. But something meaningful and heartfelt they’d like to communicate to their spouse.
Making the guest list
Who should be there? How many people should be there? These are questions only you and your group of supporters could answer. REMEMBER: there is no wrong answer.
Just keep in mind there are certain variables that could affect how many people will be attending. For instance, location and budget are two main factors that can depict your number of guests. This would naturally lead to the WHO should we invite question.
Traditionally, the number of guests doesn’t mirror the original wedding. In my experience, small venues had 10-15 guests at a residence. And larger venues had 20-50 guests at a hall or hotel. Make sure to invite people the couple would want to be there to celebrate this important milestone.
Tip: For those who can’t make it to the vow renewal ceremony encourage them to send their love and blessings to the couple. This can be in the form of a card, text, or gift.
Simple vow renewal ideas
There are so many fun things you can do to make this event memorable. Some clients of mine decided to have a theme at their ceremony. For instance, an “All White” theme was popular at a recent ceremony. The couple requested all guests dress in white attire. The theme really added to the excitement of the evening AND it was great for pictures.
Another idea that stood out was asking each guest to fill out a short questionnaire located at each table. At the end of the evening, the questionnaires were collected and read by the couple. It was a cute gesture that talked about how that person met the couple and fond memories.
Once everything is in place you can start executing your plan. This is supposed to be a fun event and it shouldn’t be stressful. Lastly, however, you decide to celebrate the vow renewal make sure it’s a ceremony that won’t be forgotten.
