Your Second Wedding with Your One and Only Groom
One great thing about renewal ceremonies is that anything goes, since you’re most likely not bound to Mom and Dad’s ideas (or money). You also probably got a lot of not-as-fun obligations out of the way the first time for etiquette’s sake (inviting his nosey aunt, pleasing the crowd with the Chicken Dance…). But the first best thing about a renewal ceremony is that you’re doing it just for the sake of love. Whether you’ve been married one year, ten, or more than fifty, a renewal ceremony is simply a great way to reaffirm your love. It’s also a great way to remind yourselves of what your marriage really means.
I do-over.
Other advantages abound. If you didn’t have a big ceremony the first time, now’s your chance. You can wear the (non-white) dress of your dreams, or go more formal than you did for that Cancun beach wedding. You can have your best friend officiate, as it isn’t legal anyway, or you can take the time to find the perfect church you skipped in favor of a secular affair. In other words, a renewal ceremony is a great way to do-over what you missed the first time.
Love renewed.
As for rules, anyone can host, including you. Some couples renew their vows along with their closest friends, in a double ceremony made all the more special because your loved ones are sharing the day with you. You can exchange the same vows you said at the first wedding, or change them to reflect how your relationship has developed over the years. As for rings, many people add new engravings on their bands or purchase new jewelry altogether. Receptions tend to have a more casual feel, and couples often opt to nix the DJ or band in favor of a sit-down dinner or chic cocktail party.
Second time around.
Registering for gifts is generally avoided, as people don’t want to appear greedy for more presents, but you should consider it. Some of your guests will want to mark the occasion, so think about registering at a few places. (If you still feel uncomfortable about it, only mention the registries when guests specifically ask.)
On the other hand, although it’s frowned-upon the first time around, you can say “No Gifts” on the invites (some people will bring them regardless of what you say). For the gift-happy among your loved ones, you can always suggest that they make a donation to a favorite charity.
And even though the usual pre-wedding parties and showers are avoided, if you were too afraid to have that crazy bachelorette party before, this time around go ahead and give it a go-go.