My question is about vow renewal. I've been getting conflicting info about this subject as I search the internet. My husband and I have been married for five years. We were married in the courthouse without friends or family when I was 8 months pregnant. We have been through many ups and downs, even to the point of coming close to getting a divorce. Thankfully we have managed to stay together and our love for one another has grown unbelieveably strong. Now we would like to renew our vows as a sign of our love and commitment to each other in front of our family and friends. We want a small ceremony, held on his parents two acres, with dinner and dancing to follow. I don't want this to seem like a wedding but I do want to wear a wedding-like, off white dress (I was married in overalls and a tshirt) and have a wedding-like cake. We also want a professional photographer to capture our special moments as we don't have a single wedding picture. Our invitations will specifically state this is a renewal of vows. We don't want attendants but we do want to single out certain people for group pictures (taken before our guests arrive), like our parents, best friends, siblings and our three children. Is this a proper way to go about a vow renewal ceremony? Is there things we should add or change to make our guests more comfortable? Thank you for your time and answers to my questions.
Etiquette Now
WEDDING ETIQUETTE EXPERT
May 1, 2007, 2:14 PM
Post #2 of 2
(657 views)
Re: [Shelybobelly] More Vow Renewal Questions!
[In reply to]
Dear Shelybobelly,
You have a positive focus on what a vow renewal is supposed to be--a ceremony to renew your wedding vows with those for whom you care the most. Plus, it is also positive that you are scheduling this after you two have gone through a difficult time.
Most likely the reason you are having a difficult time finding consistent information is that many, if not most, sites do not focus on what is considered proper. It is unfortunate, but people do have an agenda. So, I'm glad you found us.
As long as your ceremony doesn't mirror a wedding and include traditional wedding elements you are fine. Your dress should be more of a dressy cocktail dress and of any color you wish. Your husband should dress as formally as you and even in a tux if held at night and if he wishes. Your cake should be more of an anniversary cake. Of course this can be very nice.
Include your children. They can even stand with you as you restate your vows of continued love. A family member can stand as officiate since this is not a legal ceremony. Invent elements that are uniquely yours. This can be very special.
More Vow Renewal Questions!
