"Do not worry about anything, but in everything by prayer and supplication with thanksgiving let your requests be made known to God. And the peace of God, which surpasses all understanding, will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus."
(Philippians 4:6-7)
You can renew your wedding vows at any time after your wedding day, whether you had a church wedding or not. Couples cherish this service for various reasons, such as celebrating an anniversary, reaffirming their commitment after a period of separation or difficulty, or holding a service of thanksgiving if they were married abroad and wish to celebrate at home. During this special occasion, you can even have your rings blessed, whether they are your existing wedding rings or special rings like eternity rings.
There are no legal restrictions on where and when you can renew your vows, offering you the freedom to choose any location and time that holds significance for you. It could be at home, in the churchyard or another outdoor venue, at church, or combined with another service.
If you choose to have a standalone service, there is a fee involved. However, if your renewal is combined with another service (usually our Thursday service), there is no additional fee for the renewal itself. Any extra elements you desire, such as an organist, flowers, or the assistance of a verger, would be charged at the church's standard rate.
Renewing or recalling your marriage vows is a beautiful public declaration of your enduring love, affection, and commitment to each other. It is important to remember that this is not a reenactment of your wedding day. Your marriage is an ongoing and sacred covenant. Renewal of vows serves as a reaffirmation of this ongoing sacred commitment, highlighting the ongoing nature of your love and dedication to one another. There was a uniqueness and sanctity in your original wedding ceremony. The service is framed as a time of thanksgiving, providing an opportunity for you to reflect on your journey together, express gratitude for each other, and seek continued blessings for your marriage. For this reason, we kindly ask that couples seeking to renew wedding vows do not wear a wedding dress. Please note that our service of Thanksgiving for Marriage does not include walking down the aisle. Additionally, there is no role for bridesmaids or a best man in this service.
We are here to help you choose music and readings for your service, which can mirror those from your wedding day if you wish. Whether you want to invite all your family and friends or prefer a more intimate gathering, we are here to support you in creating a meaningful and memorable celebration.