My husband and I got married in June of 2005, but he was sent to Iraq shortly after that. We want to go on a honeymoon/vacation when he returns and is no longer in the army.
I would like to surprise him by renewing our vows while we are on our vacation. Since we still have not had the opportunity to live together, I think it would be a good way to start that aspect of our marriage. I only want it to be the two of us since we already had a big, formal wedding with our families.
How should we start off the ceremony? Walking down the aisle seems sort of silly, but I feel like there should be a symbolic way to start it off. Also, is there something else we could exchange since we have already exhanged rings?
I want to make it special, but I can't find a creative way to do some of the symbolic things.
What a wonderful idea! I think your husband will be very touched. Done correctly, it will be meaningful, romantic and memorable.
Brides often walk down the aisle for vow renewals, even when the ceremony is so intimate. However, you don't have to... You can simply play music and come together from two opposite sides. You can process down an aisle together---real or imaginary. You can exchange vows while on your knees upon a sandy beach by the ocean's shore or on a mountain top overlooking a beautiful vista.
Do what is in your heart. Do what feels right for you.
Since it will be just the two of you and given your situation, the words are ever more important. Why not prepare a statement reflecting your feelings of love for him---which you can read before your vows? When you are finished, you can slip your written words into his breast pocket. Then with your hand over his heart, you can end your statement by saying "Take these words. Carry them with you always. For whereever you go, my heart goes." (Or something to that effect.... Go to your own heart and the right words will come.)
You can ask your officiant to include a special prayer regarding your future life together, his safe return and the strength you will need during this period of separation.
May your husband end his tour of duty safe and sound.
May he be returned to your loving arms as quickly as possible.
surprise vow renewal
