Renewing wedding vows is a special and heartfelt way to celebrate love, commitment, and the journey shared as a couple. In this article, we delve into the significance of vow renewal ceremonies and guide you through the process of planning and creating a meaningful vow renewal ceremony script. Moreover, we’re fortunate to draw upon the expertise of Laura Montorio, The Paris Officiant, who graciously shares her insightful tips to make your vow renewal ceremony an unforgettable experience.
ADVERTISEMENT
A vow renewal ceremony is always just a symbolic ceremony, says Laura Montorio. So you are pretty free to decide which elements you want and don’t want to include into your vow renewal ceremony.
Basically, it is not as different as a wedding ceremony and usually contains at least an introduction, your vows, and the pronouncement. But you can also add a ring exchange, readings, rituals, your love story, and more.
The most important part are for sure your vows. It can be the same ones that you have already exchanged on your wedding day. Or you change them and write new promises that reflect how you have grown as a couple. Maybe you have new goals and dreams together, maybe you have overcome challenging times, maybe you can refine your promises after being married for several years.
A vow renewal ceremony can also include another ring exchange. Some couples use their wedding rings and simply exchange them again. Some couples get new rings for this occasion.
As a celebrant in Paris, I experience all types of vow renewal celebrations. Most of my couples celebrate just the two of them and fully focus on each other; or with only their kids. In this case, it is rather informal and casual and there won’t be any reception. But sometimes the couple is inviting their family and friends, in order to practically redo their wedding, including a dinner reception.
ADVERTISEMENT
Simple Vow Renewal Ceremony Script
So, you’ve lived in bliss with your beloved for 5, 10, 20, or forever and it’s time for renewal. You decide that you want to do it the simple way, with not much fuss. Below is a simple script that you can borrow. It’s short, straight to the point, and soulful. You can tweak it by adding your best vows for him or her as it suits. See this simple script below.
The welcome address
Claire and John, we take delight in sharing today’s very special occasion with you.
Lots of folks believe that entering into marriage is the final step in a passionate relationship. The way they see it, a couple meets, gets to know each other, falls in love, decides they want to go through life together, and then take the final step—tying the knot.
But the final step in a couple’s relationship isn’t marriage—it only marks the beginning of a grand adventure that will be long and fruitful for each couple.
ADVERTISEMENT
Officiant to the couple as they renew vows
You’ve shared the joys, blessings, and yes, the challenges, of married life for 30 years. And, this day, it’s your wish to reaffirm your commitment to working together to make your marriage grow and blossom in the years to come. May this ceremony, renewing the vows you took to become husband and wife on your wedding day, remind you that despite the stresses inevitable in every life, your love, respect, trust, and understanding of each other will continue to increase your contentment and heighten your joy in living.
Please join hands
Claire, will you continue to have John as your husband and continue to live in this marriage? (I WILL)
Do you reaffirm your love for her, and will you love, honor and cherish him in sickness and in health, for richer or poorer, for better for worse, and forsaking all others, be faithful to him as long as you both shall live? (I DO)
Repeat same for husband.
Vow renewal Reading
From any bible verse on marriage that suits the cause of your vow renewal. You can substitute also with vow renewal wording from other sources such as literature, movies, music, famous quotes, etc.
ADVERTISEMENT
Ring exchange
On your wedding day, you exchanged rings as a symbol of the never-ending circle of love. Rings serve as a reminder of your wedding vows to each other, and your commitment to living in unity, love, and happiness. At this time, it is appropriate to reconfirm the meaning of the rings you wear.
Please join your left hands together so that Johns’ hand is on top. Michael, please repeat after me.
Claire, I wear this ring you placed on my hand – as a symbol of my love and commitment to you.
Reverse hands placed and repeat for the bride.
Exhortation
I ask that you each remember to continue to cherish each other as special and unique individuals and that you each respect the thoughts and ideas of one another. And most of all, be able to forgive each other, and not hold grudges against one another. Live each day in love with each other, always being there to give love, comfort, and refuge to each other, in good times and bad.
John and Claire, today you have renewed the promises and vows you made to each other on your wedding day. You have symbolized the renewal of the marriage union by the joining of hands, the taking of vows, and by the wearing of your wedding rings.
Proclamation and presentation
It is with pleasure that I conclude the ceremony of renewing the vows of marriage that joined you and binds you as husband and wife. Please celebrate this renewal of vows with a kiss!
ADVERTISEMENT
Secular Vow Renewal Ceremony Script
When thinking about how to renew wedding vows, it can be difficult to find the right words. Use this sample below as an inspiration to find your vows.
“It was so many years ago that we pledged for the very first time to love and cherish each other forever. And here, today, in front of all our family and loved ones, I will like to say that I am still in love as before. I continue to want our love to grow for better or worse, for richer or poorer, and I promise to honor, cherish, and keep you as long as we shall both live. I love you”
Traditional Vow Renewal Ceremony Wording
You have a tradition you love and want to uphold? Do it for the culture by taking a cue from this traditional vow renewal script. This is also one of the most important scripts to include most romantic weddings vows and him. It emphasizes on the strength of your love, deep-rooted in the tradition you honor. Feel free to incorporate cultural practices your favor, like unity ceremonies, binding, and all.
Names, it is a pleasure to share today’s wonderful occasion with you.
Many people believe that entering into marriage is the final step in a romantic relationship. A couple meets, get to know one another and fall in love, decide they want to spend their lives together, and then take the final step-marriage.
But marriage is hardly the final step in a couple’s relationship; rather it is the beginning of a grand adventure!
You have shared the joys, blessings, and challenges of married life for _______ years. Today you want to reconfirm your commitment to working together and ensuring your marriage blossoms for years to come. May this renewing of the vows you took to become husband and wife remind you that despite the stresses inevitable in every life, your love, respect, trust, and understanding of each other will continue to increase your contentment and heighten your joy in living.
ADVERTISEMENT
Vow renewal
[Husband], will you continue to have [Wife] as your wife and continue to live in this marriage? (I WILL)
Do you reaffirm your love to her, and will you love, honor, and cherish her in sickness and in health, for richer or poorer, for better for worse, and forsaking all others, be faithful to her as long as you both shall live? (I DO)
[Wife], will you continue to have [Husband] as your husband and continue to live in this marriage? (I WILL)
Do you reaffirm your love for him, and will you love, honor, and cherish him in sickness and in health, for richer or poorer, for better for worse, and forsaking all others, be faithful to him as long as you both shall live? (I DO)
Vow renewal Reading
You can use vow renewal wording from sources such as literature, movies, music, or famous quotes. Other sources include the Apache wedding reading, Jewish, Chinese, or readings from any other culture you identify with.
ADVERTISEMENT
Rings exchange
On your wedding day, you exchanged rings as a symbol of the never-ending circle of love. Rings serve as a reminder of your vows to each other, and your commitment to living in unity, love, and happiness. At this time, reconfirm the meaning of the rings you wear.
Please join your left hands together so that [Husband’s] hand is on top. [Husband], please repeat after me.
[Wife], I wear this ring you placed on my hand _____- as a symbol of my love and commitment to you.
Now, with [Wife’s] hand on top, [Wife] please repeat after me:
[Husband], I wear this ring you placed on my hand ______ –as a symbol of my love and commitment to you.
Exhortation
I ask that you each continue to cherish each other as special and unique individuals and that you respect the thoughts and ideas of one another. And most of all, be able to forgive each other, and not hold grudges against them. Live each day in love with each other, always being there to give love, comfort, and refuge, in good times and bad.
[Husband and Wife], today you have renewed the vows you made to each other on your blessed wedding day. You have symbolized the renewal of your union by the joining of hands, the taking of vows, and by the wearing of your rings.
Pronouncements
It is with pleasure that I conclude the ceremony of renewing the vows of marriage that joined you and binds you as husband and wife. Please celebrate this renewal of vows with a kiss.
ADVERTISEMENT
Religious Vow Renewal Ceremony Script
Thinking of vow renewal ideas for your religious ceremony? Here’s a religious vow renewal ceremony script that suits just right. Use as posted or make it into yours. Spice it up with some love quotes that work for the purpose. It is okay to also include any kids you have or other couples during vow exchange. You’d be incorporating your faith into this special moment. And taking on the blessings that come with it. See a religious renewal ceremony script below.
The address
Mary and Jacob, when you first joined hands and hearts in marriage ___ years ago, you did not know where life would take you.
You promised to love, honor and cherish one another through all things. Life has surely brought you both wonderful blessings and difficult challenges over the years.
But here you are today, having fulfilled the vows to love, honor and cherish you each made on your wedding day. And God is smiling!
As you celebrate here today, and as you reflect over all the years as husband and wife, do you now wish to reaffirm the vows you took ___ years ago? WE DO
Please face each other and join hands.
Renewal of vows
Jacob, will you continue to have Mary as your wife and continue to live in this happy and loving marriage?
Jacob: I WILL
Do you reaffirm your love for her, and will you love, honor, and cherish her in sickness and in health, for richer or poorer, for better for worse, and forsaking all others, be faithful to her for as long as you both shall live?
Jacob: I DO
Mary, will you continue to have Jacob as your husband and continue to live in this happy and loving marriage?
Mary: I WILL
Do you reaffirm your love for him, and will you love, honor, and cherish him in sickness and in health, for richer or poorer, for better for worse, and forsaking all others, be faithful to him for as long as you both shall live? Mary: I DO
ADVERTISEMENT
Vow renewal Reading
From any bible verse on marriage that suits the cause of your vow renewal. You can substitute also with vow renewal wording from other sources such as literature, movies, music, famous quotes, etc. But you must consult the officiant to get a go-ahead.
Rings exchange
Mary and Jacob, on your wedding day you exchanged rings as a symbol of the never-ending circle that symbolizes the eternal quality of God, unending strength, and unending love!
May you always wear your rings as a reminder of your wedding vows to each other, and your commitment to continuing to live in unity, love, and happiness. (If not “re-exchanging rings, skip to “reference.”)To remind you of that commitment made on your wedding day, you will now renew your pledge.
Jacob, please place your gift of a ring on Mary’s hand with the words, with this ring, I renew my pledge of love and commitment
Mary, please place your gift of a ring on Jacob’s hand with the words, with this ring, I renew my pledge of love and commitment
Blessing of the couple
Marriage is a commitment to learning to care for one another in mutually fulfilling ways. It is not an act but a life-long relationship always in the making.
Marriage deepens and enriches every facet of life.
Happiness is fuller, memories are fresher, commitment is stronger, even anger is felt more strongly, and passes away more quickly.
Marriage understands and forgives the mistakes life is unable to avoid. It encourages and nurtures new life, new experiences, and new ways of expressing a love that is deeper than life.
When two people pledge their love and care for each other in marriage, they create a spirit unique unto themselves which binds them closer than any spoken or written words.
Marriage is a promise made in the hearts of two people who love each other and the potential of marriage requires a lifetime to fulfill.
Pronouncement
Jacob and Mary, today you have renewed the promises and vows you made to each other on your wedding day. You have symbolized the renewal of the marriage union by the joining of hands, the taking of vows, and by exchanging rings
It is with pleasure that I conclude the ceremony of renewing the vows of marriage that joined you and forever binds you as husband and wife. Please celebrate this renewal of vows with a sign of affection…. You may kiss!
ADVERTISEMENT
Unique Renew Wedding Vows Samples
For a vow renewal wedding ceremony outline that is unique, you need something out of the box. From the vow renewal wording, to ring exchange and readings, you must personalize it. Below is a unique vow renewal script. The readings will be at your discretion, and at best one you created yourself. You can also coin your vows, best about why you’re having a renewal. There is room for inclusions of any song, tradition, or people you wish. All of these come together to make it one of a kind.
Officiant address
[Bride and groom], When you first joined in marriage ___ years ago, you did not know what life would bring you. You promised to love, honor and cherish one another through it all. And while life has brought you both wonderful blessings and difficult challenges over the years, here you are today, having fulfilled the vows to love, honor and cherish each other. And God is smiling on you! As you celebrate your renewed commitment here today, and as you reflect on your life together as husband and wife, do you now wish to reaffirm the vows you took ___ years ago?
We Do
Please face each other and join hands (Friends can officiate this part).
Renewal of Vows Ceremony
[Groom], will you continue to have [Bride] as your wife and continue to live in this happy, loving marriage?
Groom: I WILL
Do you reaffirm your love for her, and will you love, honor and cherish your wife in sickness and in health, for richer or poorer, for better for worse, and forsaking all others, be faithful to her for as long as you both shall live?
Groom: I DO
Repeat the process for the bride.
Vow renewal Reading
This is the time to include your creativity. A reading down by you or from any source you hold dear.
ADVERTISEMENT
Exchange of Rings
[Bride and Groom], on your wedding day many years ago you exchanged rings as a symbol of the never-ending circle that connects you to the eternal quality of God, unending strength, and unending love! May you always wear your rings as a reminder of your vows to one another, and your commitment to continuing to live in unity, love, and happiness. To remind you of this commitment, you will now renew your vows.
[Groom], please place the ring on [Bride’s] hand and say the words, “With this ring, I renew my pledge of love and commitment.”
Repeat same for bride.
Optional section
Include whatever tradition that appeals to you here. You can also bring in your kids or other couples if you so wish.
Blessing of Couple
Marriage is a commitment to care for one another in mutually-fulfilling ways. It is not an act but rather a life-long relationship that’s always evolving.
Marriage enriches every part of life.
Happiness is fuller, memories are fresher, commitment is stronger, and even anger is felt more strongly. However, it passes away more quickly.
Marriage understands and forgives mistakes. It encourages and nurtures new life, new experiences, and new ways of expressing love.
When two people pledge their love and care for each other in this way, they create a spirit unique unto themselves which binds them closer than any words, whether written or spoken.
Marriage is the promise made in the hearts of two people who love each other. The potential of marriage takes a lifetime to fulfill.
Pronouncement
[Bride and Groom], today you have renewed the vows you made to each other on your wedding day. You have symbolized this renewal by the joining of hands, the taking of vows, and the exchanging of rings.
It is with great pleasure that I conclude the ceremony of renewing your vows of marriage. Please celebrate this renewal of vows with a sign of affection….you may now kiss!
ADVERTISEMENT
Funny Vow Renewal Ceremony Script
You are a very happy couple and you want the renewal to be a humorous affair? Try this funny vow renewal ceremony script below. You can include funny romantic wedding quotes to spice it up. Your vows can also come from you, something hilarious to get the guests going.
Officiant welcome
We are gathered here today to celebrate one of life’s greatest moments, the vow renewal of two hearts. In this ceremony today we will witness the GROOM/BRIDE and GROOM/BRIDE renew their vows in their marriage.
Today we have come together to witness the new dawn of these two lives. Romance is fun, but true love is something far more and their love has stood the test of time. They desire to reaffirm it and that’s why we are celebrating today.
But today is also a celebration for the rest of us, for it is a pleasure for us to see the love in bloom, and to participate in the renewal of vows of two people so delightfully suited to one another. And to have a couple of cocktails in the process.
So let’s get on with it already!
Exhortation
A good marriage must be created.
In marriage, the “little” things are the big things.
It is never being too old to hold hands.
It is remembering to say, “I love you” at least once a day.
And it is never going to sleep angry.
It is standing together and facing the world.
It is speaking words of appreciation and demonstrating gratitude in thoughtful ways.
And it is having the capacity to forgive and forget.
It is giving each other an atmosphere in which each can grow.
It is a common search for the good and the beautiful.
And it is not only marrying the right person — it is being the right partner
Vow renewal
[Groom], will you continue to have [Bride] as your wife and continue to live in this happy, loving marriage?
Groom: I WILL
Do you reaffirm your love for her, and will you love, honor and cherish your wife in sickness and in health, for richer or poorer, for better for worse, and forsaking all others, be faithful to her for as long as you both shall live?
Do you promise to continue to love, honor, cherish and protect her, and be faithful to her as you have done?
And do you promise to continue loving her after she has no teeth left?
Groom-I do
Repeat same for bride.
ADVERTISEMENT
Ring Exchange (who has the rings) (repeat after me)
There are 3 rings of marriage. The wedding ring, The Engagement ring, and the suffering. We hope the latter can be held to a minimum.
[Bride and Groom], on your wedding day many years ago you exchanged rings as a symbol of the never-ending circle that connects you to the eternal quality of God, unending strength, and unending love! May you always wear your rings as a reminder of your vows to one another, and your commitment to continuing to live in unity, love, and happiness. To remind you of this commitment, you will now renew your vows
Pronouncement
[Bride and Groom], today you have renewed the vows you made to each other on your wedding day. You have symbolized this renewal by the joining of hands, the taking of vows, and the exchanging of rings.
It is with great pleasure that I conclude the ceremony of renewing your vows of marriage. Please celebrate this renewal of vows with a sign of affection. It’s that time you’ve been waiting for… you may now kiss!
Do You Exchange Rings When You Renew Your Vows?
Couples can choose to exchange, or not exchange rings while renewing wedding vows. It is totally up to them, as traditionally there is no ring exchange at wedding vows renewal ceremony. If they do choose to exchange, then can either use their wedding rings or get entirely new rings.
Marriage Renewal Vows Samples
Marriage vows renewals happen in diverse settings for diverse reasons. A couple could decide to renew their marriage vows after surviving an illness, a rough patch, or infidelity. It could also be a way to reaffirm their love they share even in terminal illnesses. Last is that the couple could be in bliss and wants to mark that milestone of years in marriage. Whichever one you’re up for, below are 5 renew wedding vows samples to see.
ADVERTISEMENT
Vow renewal after surviving a sickness
“Eight years ago, I promised to love you for as long as we both will live. I never imagined that I would face the possibility of losing any time, or how broken it will make me. Today, we got to that bridge and crossed it. I am so grateful that I get to continue life’s journey with you by my side. Once again, I promise to love you, honor you and keep you, for better or worse, in sickness and in health, for as long as we both live.”
Vow renewal for wedding anniversary
“Mark/Grace, 50 years ago, I pledged to you my love and commitment, but it feels just like yesterday. I promised to love you, honor you, comfort, and keep you. I pledged to be by your side in sickness and in health, in times of want, and times of plenty, for better or worse, for the rest of our lives. We have had all of those things, and you have been by my side as we created a family, a home, and a life together. Today, at the beginning of our 51st year as husband and wife, in the presence of God, and our family and friends, I renew my vows to you, pledging my eternal love for you, and eagerly awaiting what life may bring us.”
Vow renewal after a rough patch
“On our wedding day, I pledged to love you in sickness and in health, and for better or worse. The past year has tested those vows, but our enduring love for one another has prevailed. I come here today to make a fresh start, to renew our vows of love, honor, and fidelity, and to reaffirm my love for you.”
Religious wedding renewal vow
“I am blessed with you, (bride/groom). All my thanks go to God for our togetherness through all these years which has enriched our lives beyond measure. And again I promise with all of my being to love you and to cherish you all the days of our lives. As Christ helps me”
Vow renewal after getting through infidelity
“On our wedding day, I pledged many things to you, including my faithfulness. With great sorrow and regret, I acknowledge that I broke that vow but I realize now the enormity of my mistake. Others come and go, but you are the constant in my life whom I will always love. I believe in this marriage more than ever, and I reaffirm my love and commitment to you.”
ADVERTISEMENT
Crafting the Vow Renewal Ceremony Script
Welcoming and Opening Remark
- Setting the tone with warm and heartfelt opening remarks, acknowledging the significance of the occasion.
Reflecting on the Journey and Celebrating Achievements
- Taking a moment to reflect on the joys, challenges, and growth experienced as a couple.
- Celebrating the milestones and achievements reached together.
Renewing Wedding Vows and Exchanging Rings
- Reciting renewed vows that express the continued love, commitment, and promises to each other.
- Optionally exchanging rings as a symbol of the enduring bond.
Special Readings, Poems, or Personalized Promises
- Including readings or poems that hold personal significance to the couple.
- Crafting personalized promises or vows that reflect the journey and aspirations for the future.
Acknowledging Family and Loved Ones
- Expressing gratitude and love towards family and friends who have supported the couple throughout their journey.
- Acknowledging those who have been an integral part of the relationship.
Blessings and Wishes for the Future
- Invoking blessings and offering well wishes for the couple’s future together.
- Emphasizing the continued support and love of family and friends.
ADVERTISEMENT
Vow Renewal Ideas
Taking a cue from do-overs by trending celebrities, we have some vow renewal ideas. They are refreshing, yet timeless. Celebrities did it and we are still gushing about it. See ideas below.
Kid stars
At Jay-Z and Beyoncé’s wedding vow renewal in 2018 their twins, Sir and Rumi were the stars of the day. Make your kids the stars of the day by wearing collaborative outfits with them. You could throw in signage to tell guests what you’re doing.
Family affairs
Cozy and intimate, be like the Beckhams. At almost twenty years of marriage, they held the vow renewals in their home. It had only six people in attendance. It a very private event.
Valentine’s just the two of us
This is one romantic renewal, inspired by “How To Get Away With Murder” star, Viola and her husband Julius. In 2016, they took advantage of the Valentine romance and renewed their vows. It was just the two of them and their love.
Wild getaway
The Osbourne’s, after almost thirty-five years of marriage, took off to Las Vegas for a renewal. It has even more soul because they only just got through an infidelity scandal. Ozzy and Sharon are happier than ever. So, a getaway to somewhere local or out of town, and say those vows again.
Bring on the retro vibe
Make a glam cake and coat with glitter, to match your taste. Then insert candles or fireworks, the exact number of years you’re celebrating. This will send a message to the guests even without telling. And the retro vibe will set everyone in the mood for some fun.
Something rustic
Best for an outdoor wedding vow renewal. Make signage and decor out of old wood, clothes, and banners. The guests will feel the rustic charm as the signage directs them to the venue.
Brides Often Ask
How and Why to Renew Vows?
Renewing wedding vows takes as many details as planning a wedding itself. From writing samples of wedding vows to scout for the appropriate renewal of vows quotes, and other things. But this isn’t where the main problem lies. The bulk of it lies in first knowing the reason why you should have a marriage vow renewal. Once this gets sorted, the rest follows.
For many valid reasons. It’s always a pleasure to remind the one whom you promised forever, that you’re still on the same page. It could be by marking specific anniversaries into marriage, after sicknesses, surviving a stressful period, temporary break up, etc. Some couples use this opportunity to have a wedding they couldn’t afford at the time they got married. For them, it’s a do-over in grand style.
Where and when to renew vows?
It all depends on your preference as a couple. In your home, at the church, a restaurant, backyard, cliff, mountain top, etc. Couples could also make it destination bound by having it at a getaway spot. This is great for couples who want to take a honeymoon which they didn’t get after their wedding. Now the couple can afford to travel, then the renewal should happen at that destination. In general, there shouldn’t be a fuss about the venue, as it depends on the couple’s preference.
Anytime! A year, two years, five, ten, fifteen, twenty-six, fifty, and more. Vow renewal has no time frame or stamp. Anytime you’re ready to say “I do” again, then break a leg.
What does the officiant say at a vow renewal?
The officiant at a vow renewal typically welcomes guests, speaks about the couple’s journey, and invites the couple to exchange vows.
What is the welcome script for vow renewal?
A welcome script for a vow renewal involves expressing gratitude for guests, acknowledging the significance of the occasion, and setting a warm and celebratory tone.
What do you say when someone renews their vows?
When someone renews their vows, you can express heartfelt congratulations, share in their joy, and convey well-wishes for continued love and happiness in the years ahead.
Each vow renewal ceremony script we’ve listed can be used as posted or tweaked. Oh yes, you are free to borrow them for your marriage renewal vows. You will find religious, unique, traditional, and funny scripts, all suited for your wedding style. Remember, there are different reasons for renewing vows, and we have samples too. Being with the one you love and affirming to them that you do is so delightful.
ADVERTISEMENT