Renewal of vows

A renewal of marriage vows ceremony is for married couples who wish to celebrate in a unique and personal way their original vows to each other, their married years together and also to renew their commitment to one another.

Why renew our vows?

More and more married couples are choosing to renew their marriage vows.

For some it's a unique opportunity to celebrate a special anniversary.

For others it helps to confirm their commitment to each other.

For many it is just a personal statement of their love for each other.

Appropriate times to renew your vows

The ceremony is often associated with a special wedding anniversary, but it does not have to be, and it can be the precursor to a party or celebration.

Renewing your marriage vows can be just as appropriate for couples at any stage of their marriage.

It may be particularly relevant to those who have been through a period of unsettlement, which has put a strain on their relationship, and now wish to celebrate their renewed love and commitment.

Where couples have married abroad they often have few family and friends with them. On their return home they may want for some form of ceremony which their family and friends can share.

A Kentish renewal of marriage vows ceremony will be both appropriate and enjoyable in any of these circumstances.

What information will be needed?

Whilst this ceremony has no legal effect it is a public statement by a couple of their continuing affection, love and commitment to each other. Couples will need to produce a copy of their original marriage certificate when booking a ceremony.

Who are they for?

Any married couple may arrange a renewal of marriage vows ceremony.

The couple can be of any age and be married for any length of time.

You do not have to live in the area where you hold your ceremony.

Your unique ceremony

You choose the content of the ceremony from a number of choices and, just as no 2 couples are the same, no 2 renewal of vows ceremonies are the same.

As you go through the various choices and make your selections you will be creating a unique event that the 2 of you will treasure and your guests will remember. It is a good idea to take time and think carefully about the options that are appropriate and have meaning for you both. The special people in your lives can take part in your ceremony; your children, guests who were at your wedding and particular friends and relatives.

You may also choose to ask 2 people to witness the signing of the certificate of the event.

A Celebrant provided and trained by Kent County Council will conduct the ceremony.

What does the ceremony contain?

There are a number of choices to make in how your ceremony is arranged, a renewal of marriage vows ceremonies may contain any or all of the following:

• Introduction and welcome.
• Acknowledgement of any children of the marriage.
• Readings.
• Poetry.
• Renewal of marriage vows.
• Rededication of ring(s).
• Giving of new ring(s) or gift(s).
• Messages from previous marriage guests (often the best man, bridesmaids or bride's father).
• Special music.
• Signing of commemorative certificate and closing words.

How long is the ceremony?

The length of the ceremony will depend on the choices that the couple have made, any readings and the inclusion or involvement of family members and friends.

Commemorative certificate

The couple, any witnesses and the celebrant sign a special Kentish commemorative certificate. View the renewal of vows commemorative certificate.

Where can these ceremonies be held?

Ceremonies can be held in a range of selected venues which have been approved by Kent County Council.

These include castles, stately homes, town and country hotels, wild animal parks, civic halls, and gazebos. On fine days ceremonies may also be held in gardens attached to these venues.

Dates and times of ceremonies may vary between venues and couples are advised to check. Normally celebrants are only available to conduct ceremonies between 8am and 6pm.

How much does it cost?

The fees for ceremonies will vary depending upon the type of venue and the day of the week.

For details of all ceremony fees, including our terms and conditions, please visit our dedicated ceremonies website.

Arranging the ceremony

If you are interested in arranging a Kentish renewal of marriage vows ceremony and would like further details please contact us.

An appointment will be arranged at a local Kent register office for you to meet with one of our specialist Renewals Officers to discuss your personal requirements.