Celebratory Ceremonies
Renewal of Marriage Vows
What is a Renewal of Marriage Vows Ceremony ?
This type of ceremony gives a married couple the opportunity to renew their marriage vows and to celebrate married life together. Each ceremony is unique and may be conducted in private or in front of family and friends.
What does the ceremony involve ?
Each ceremony is designed specifically for the couple and will contain options of their choosing including an introduction and welcome by the Celebrant, readings, renewal of marriage vows, signing of a certificate, rededication of rings or giving of new rings plus closing words. A normal ceremony would take between 15 and 20 minutes but may last longer depending on how many options are included.
Who are they for ?
The ceremony may be designed for couples who have been married for a number of years or may be adapted for newly married couples who may wish to renew their marriage vows in front of family or friends unable to attend the original marriage ceremony.
When and where ?
Ceremonies may be held in the local Registraton Office or at an approved venue on most days of the week. The local authority is not able to conduct ceremonies in a private home. Details available from your local Registration Office.
Is there a Certificate ?
Yes, a commemorative Certificate will be provided to record the event. The couple will need to provide their original marriage certificate before the ceremony may be arranged.
Details of costs of may be obtained from your local Registration Office.
Do they have any legal status ?
No, they have no legal status. They provide couples with a non-religious opportunity to renew their marriage vows. The certificate provides a record of the event having taken place but may not be used in place of a marriage certificate.
Who organises the event and how long does it take ?
| Couples wishing to organise a Renewal of Marriage Vows Ceremony should contact their local Registration Office who will arrange an informal appointment for them to discuss the event with a trained Celebrant. The appointment will last about 30 minutes. Once their options have been discussed the ceremony will then be designed especially for their event. Most ceremonies are organised about six to eight weeks in advance of the date so that invitations may be sent to family and friends but they can be organised at short notice if required. |
What to think about ?
If you decide to arrange a Renewal of Marriage Vows Ceremony you need to consider:
- the promises and commitments that you may wish to make to your partner
- will you and your partner make these promises in full or would you want the Celebrant to read them out
- do you want to exchange rings or present your partner with a gift to remember the event
- where would you like the ceremony to take place
- would you like the ceremony to be in private or will you invite guests to be present
