Planning a vow renewal ceremony, but unclear or unsure about what the officiant should say? Don’t worry. There’s really no wrong thing for the officiant to discuss so long as it is about the love you and your partner share. Vow renewal ceremonies are often more personal than weddings, as they provide the chance to share thoughts and feelings you didn’t get to talk about at your nuptials. Such ceremonies are much less formal, after all!
Review a few tips for making your vow renewal ceremony one you’ll cherish always:
Reading Of Vows
Make the ceremony easy on your officiant by reading vows you wrote for each other. This is often the most special part of the ceremony for a couple, especially if they didn’t get to recite their own vows at their wedding so many years ago. Say what’s in your heart and have your partner do the same…it will be beautiful no matter what.
End Of The Ceremony
Pick a few different “endings” and review them with your officiant. It doesn’t make much sense for the person to say “I now pronounce you husband and wife” since you already are, and besides, this isn’t a legal ceremony .Options for the vow renewal ending can include:
- “I wish you many more years of wedded bliss.”
- “[Name] and [Name], by your continued love and commitment and with the reaffirmation you make today before your family and friends, it is my honor to pronounce you husband and wife once again.” (If you are religious, feel free to add “in the presence of God.”)
- “May you continue to thrive on your journey together.”
- “I wish you many more years of love and happiness.”
Readings By Friends
Have your officiant ask friends and family to come up and say a few words if desired. Each person can offer their own special blessing before it’s time to party!
