Why Bother Renewing Your Vows?

Sep 3, 2013

I was just talking to a friend about her recent holiday. It turns out that she had gone on a cruise. While at sea, the captain  performed a lovely vow renewal ceremony, for herself and her husband.

I had to forgive her for not using me to conduct the ceremony, as she didn’t realise I was a civil celebrant (how can that be?!!). And I don’t have the smart naval uniform, either.

I asked if there was any particular reason for the ceremony. It turns out that they were celebrating 13 years together, and renewing their vows “just seemed like a good idea at the time”. And why not?

ring blessing 10-08-13 - resized

So why bother renewing your vows?

  • You may be, like my friend,  in a secure relationship, and want to celebrate it publicly.
  • Perhaps you want to celebrate an unorthodox number (such as a 13th anniversary), but it certainly makes sense to commemorate a significant milestone (ending in a 5 or 0).
  • You may originally have eloped or had a small wedding, and would now like to share your delight with your friends/family.
  • Maybe your wedding didn’t meet expectations for some reason (poor weather, an argument, disappointing service) and you want to make up for it.
  • You’ve come through a rough time (infidelity, illness, financial difficulties) and want to affirm to the world that you are sticking by (and with) each other.
  • You want to strengthen your relationship by a public reaffirmation.

What you won’t need

Because a vow renewal is not a wedding, you won’t have to worry about any of these:

  • Rings
  • Hen party/stag do
  • Wedding list (no, come on, you don’t need any more presents!)
  • Stuffy rituals (you can organise what you want, if you have a civil celebrant)
  • Venue (you can do this almost anywhere)
  • A reception (unless you choose to have one)

 

Organising a vow renewal is simple enough.All you have to do is fix a time, place and a date, invite some friends and choose an officiant – oh, and look forward to a wonderful, meaningful day!