What is a renewal of vows ceremony?

A Renewal of Vows ceremony is for couples who are married or in a civil partnership and wish to celebrate, in a unique and personal way, either their original vows to each other, their years together or to renew their commitment to one another.

The ceremony can be a unique opportunity to celebrate a special anniversary and for many couples it is a personal statement of their love for each other and can be the precursor to a party or celebration.

Couples who have married or entered into a civil partnership abroad (which is recognised in this country) often feel the need for some form of ceremony when they return home. Family and friends, who could not attend their original ceremony, can therefore share in the couple’s celebrations with a Kentish Renewal of Vows ceremony. The couple could repeat the exact vows they used when they were abroad or they can choose new ones.

Whilst a Renewal of Vows ceremony has no legal effect, it is a public statement by a couple of their continuing affection, love and commitment to each other.

What happens at a renewal of vows ceremony?

The content of the ceremony will be chosen by you from a number of choices and, just as no two couples are the same, so no two ceremonies to renew vows will ever be the same.

As you go through the various choices available to you and make your selections, you will be creating a unique event that the two of you will treasure and your guests will remember. You can include your own ideas and wording, special poetry, original vows or readings from guests.

The special people in your lives can take part in your ceremony; your children, guests who were at the original ceremony and particular friends and relatives. You may also choose to ask two people to witness the signing of the certificate for the event.

The ceremony can be either formal or informal and can contain the following choices:

• Introduction and welcome
• Acknowledgement of any children belonging to the couple
• Readings and/or poetry
• Renewal of Vows
• Rededication or giving of new ring(s) or gift(s)
• Messages from guests, who may had read at the original ceremony (often the Best Man, Bridesmaids or family member)
• Special music
• Signing of a special Kentish Commemorative certificate by the couple, any witnesses and the celebrant
• Closing words
• Where can they be held?
• Ceremonies can be held in Approved Premises, Kent and Bexley Approved Premises or in unlicensed venues (subject to KCC’s approval).

Please speak to your local ceremonies team to find out more.