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Emma's Wedding Diary: Renewing Wedding Vows

Auntie Mary called today as it now seems that I'm the family's wedding expert! (I told her that I got it all from my Wedding Organizer so she's getting one of her own now for her local area.) Anyway, she wants to arrange to have a renewal of wedding vows ceremony for her and Uncle David. Renewing wedding vows is becoming more popular, and in their case they felt it was a good thing to do now that the children have left home and they're starting a new phase of their life. Her friend did it on their 30th wedding anniversary but there are all kinds of reasons why people want to renew their wedding vows. It's so romantic, plus it's a great reason for a big party!

Renewing wedding vows is more relaxed than the first time!

I looked into it for her and this kind of ceremony can be much more relaxed than a wedding because it isn't legally binding. That means she'll be able to have the ceremony wherever she likes - I bet Uncle David would want it at the local cricket ground! I have a feeling she might like to have it at home as they have such a lovely garden and it can be held outside. As long as wherever they choose is safe for the number of guests it should be fine. Alternatively they could renew their wedding vows as part a religious ceremony - something like a blessing. All they need to do is get in touch with their local church or they could have a celebrant who is trained to carry out these sorts of ceremonies. The British Humanist Association would be a good place to start, I must dig out their number for her, or her local council may be able to help

The ceremony to renew the wedding vows

She can incorporate whatever she likes into the vow renewal ceremony, whether it's readings, music, extra vows, even the exchange of rings (old or new). I told her about the section in my Wedding Organizer that contains shops specialising in outfits for the bridal party so she can buy a special outfit for the day. I can't wait - and what a great excuse for a new dress for me too!