Q: My husband and I want to renew our wedding vows. Is it customary to do so after a certain number of years? And what types of ceremony and reception are appropriate?
A: You can renew your vows at any time, but it’s common to hold the event on a major anniversary, such as the tenth, twenty-fifth, or fiftieth.
The ceremony is usually an intimate one, with your relatives, original attendants, and close friends present. But the festivities afterward can be as grand as you like, with champagne toasts and a replica of your wedding cake. Some women wear their bridal gowns, but anything from a suit to a cocktail dress would also be fine.
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I recently attended what was supposed to be a retirement ceremony, when, at the very end, the retiree and spouse renewed their vows, minister and all. As a guest, I couldn’t help but feel awkward. So I agree an intimate ceremony is the best, where your guests are aware in advance, that you will renew your vows.
WHAT KIND OF DRESS SHOULD THE RENEWING BRIDE WEAR TO THE CEREMONY
Tanya, nowadays, just about anything goes, though your decision should take into account the time of day, formality and location of the ceremony, not to mention flattering style, budget and your innate level of taste. Purchase a couple of bridal magazines to peruse for ideas and take them with you to a reputable bridal salon and ask their advice. It is usually best if you do not invite a lot of friends or relatives to voice their opinions, as this can lead to indecision and hurt or disgruntled feelings. By the way, I am interpreting “renewing” as you used it to mean a second wedding ceremony, not a renewal of vows, though the opinions I’ve stated here apply to both situations. Best wishes!