Couples have many reasons for renewing wedding vows. You may be nearing your 10th, 25th, or 50th wedding anniversary. Perhaps the original wedding was less than ideal, or you may have made it through a rough time in your relationship. You may want the world to know you are committed to each other, or perhaps you want to keep the ceremony small with close family and friends. There is no wrong reason to renew your commitment to each other. Paradise Cove offers luxurious outdoor wedding venues in Dallas for couples young and old. We are committed to those just starting a life together, and those who want to renew their lifelong commitment to each other.
Because you are already married, some things are different. For example, you do not need a marriage license or a clergyman. You can simply state your vows, or a relative can read your vows. However, you can have the ceremony you desire, large or small in Paradise Cove’s outdoor wedding venues in Dallas.
There are few rules during the renewal ceremony for your outdoor wedding venues in Dallas.
Formal Invitations
The invitation is similar to a general wedding invitation, with the exception of there being no host at the top of the invitation. Mail the invitations at least two months prior to the ceremony. It should simply state the following for example:
Mr. and Mrs. John Doe (or Jane and Jon Doe) request the honor of your presence at the renewal (or reaffirmation) of the wedding vows…
However, if the children or grandchildren of the couple issue the invitation it could read, for example:
The children of Mr. and Mrs. John Doe (or Jane and John Doe) request the honor of your presence at the reaffirmation (or renewal) of the wedding vows of their parents…
Dress for a Wedding
If the bride is comfortable wearing the original wedding dress, wear it but omit the veil. A hat or even flowers in the hair can substitute for the veil. It is also perfectly acceptable to dress up in a formal evening gown, or a favorite cocktail dress. Perhaps the event is more of a garden party styled function than formal. Dress according to the style, and formality of the ceremony.
If the bride wears her original dress, the groom can wear the original tuxedo if it fits, or the military uniform. The groom can also wear a new suit for the celebration.
Attendants
Attendants are not necessary for a vow renewal, though it is acceptable to invite the original wedding party. A wedding party’s official position is as witnesses, and since you are already married, witnesses are not a requirement. They do not have to dress up, but it is acceptable if they do. A number of couples prefer to involve their children and grandchildren in the ceremony.
The Bridal Escort
The bride should not walk down the aisle alone. The couple may walk together, or a son or grandson can escort you.
The Ceremony
You can repeat the original vows, or write entirely new ones. New vows are common, where the two of you reveal what you mean to each other. Do not mention the hardships you have overcome, and do state what you mean to each other, and the future ahead. You will then exchange rings, and these can be the original rings, or new ones commemorating your renewal in our outdoor wedding venues in Dallas.
A reception is part of the renewal ceremony, and can be formal or informal. Dancing and the wedding cake, delicious food, all of the benefits of a first time wedding are appropriate for the renewal reception. After all, a celebration is not complete without food in our beautiful setting by Lake Grapevine at our outdoor wedding venues in Dallas.
Photography
Definitely hire a photographer for your renewal vows, it will provide memories for you and your family for decades to come. Paradise Cove’s outdoor wedding venues in Dallas offer a number of lovely sites for stunning photography.
The Wedding Registry
A wedding registry is not appropriate for a vow renewal. If guests insist, request they donate to your favorite charity. Showers and gifts are for helping young couples just starting out to establish a household, and not for an established couple to upgrade furnishings.
However, if it is an official anniversary, such as your 25th or 50th wedding anniversary, you may register for gifts appropriate for an anniversary, and not a wedding.
Hosting a Vow Renewal
It is common practice to host your own ceremony and reception. Adult children and grandchildren can assist with the costs if they insist, otherwise etiquette demands you pay the costs yourself.
Select a Venue
Planning should begin 6 months to a year ahead of time. Once size and budget is decided, select the venue and book it. When you choose Paradise Cove for your outdoor wedding venues in Dallas, we can provide you with a professional wedding planner to assist you in the details for your vow renewal ceremony.
Paradise Cove’s wedding professionals can assist you with a ceremony for renewing wedding vows, and a dinner reception afterwards. Contact us for further details, or a tour of our facility. We offer a number of beautiful sites for the renewal of your wedding vows in our outdoor wedding venues in Dallas. Schedule a tour to view our facility, and to learn more about what we offer.