Renewing your vows

Although many couples choose to renew their vows at milestone anniversaries, the ceremony is just as appropriate at any stage of a relationship. Any legally married couple or civil partners of any age can arrange a renewal of vows ceremony and you do not need to live in the area where you would like the ceremony to take place. It is also ideal if you have married abroad and now wish to celebrate your wedding or civil partnership with family and friends who were unable to attend the original ceremony.

The ceremony has no legal status but nevertheless is still of great significance. It also acts as a public statement of your continuing love and commitment to one another.

What you need to do

Choose your venue

Ceremonies can take place at The register office at The Story.

In addition, there are a number of approved premises for marriages and civil partnerships across the county where ceremonies can be held.

Book the registrar

Contact Registration Service to book your registrar. When you book you will need to pay a non-refundable booking fee of £40 in addition to the ceremony fees. Any changes to your booking will result in an additional £40 payment.

Plan your day

You can personalise your ceremony to create a unique and memorable event for both you and your guests. Take time to make sure the options you choose have meaning for you both. You may also want the special people in your lives, such as your children, relatives, friends and guests who attended your wedding or civil partnership to take part in the ceremony. You will also need to ask two people to witness the signing of the certificate.

Renewal ceremonies usually last about 15 minutes but can take up to 30 minutes if more readings or other elements are included. The ceremony will usually include:

• introduction and welcome
• acknowledgement of any children of the marriage or civil partnership
• reading
• renewal of vows
• rededication of rings
• giving of new rings or gifts
• words from previous guests such as the best man or bridesmaid
• further reading
• signing of certificate
• witnesses
• closing words