Whether you have been married for 15 years or 50 years, a vow renewal is a wonderful opportunity for life partners to re-express their love and commitment for each other. Just like weddings, there are some expected etiquette and best practices for ensuring a successful day at your reception venue. Follow the do’s and don’ts guide below to start planning with confidence.

Do:

Hire a photographer.

All your loved ones together in a beautiful event venue is the perfect opportunity for some photos. Hire a professional to take pictures of family members and of you and your spouse. You can even recreate some of your original wedding photos for a fun comparison of how the family has changed over the years.

Include children.

If you have children, include them in the event. They are a core part of your family as well. You can have them stand at the altar as your attendants or have them participate in a unity candle ceremony.

Choose a beautiful reception venue.

As with any event, you’ll want to select a fitting reception venue. This will set the scene for the entire vow renewal ceremony and the following party. Think about the size of the venue — whether it will accommodate all the loved ones you want to celebrate with you — and its overall ambiance. It should be a romantic location!

Don’t:

Expect gifts.

A vow renewal is different than a wedding. Gifts are customary at weddings because two people are starting their lives together and gifts help them do that. As an already established couple, receiving gifts at a vow renewal is a generous gesture but not an expectation.

Let others make your decisions.

Your marriage is one-of-a-kind, so your vow renewal should be as well. Do not let other people dictate how you plan this important event. This advice covers aspects like whether the bride will wear a wedding gown or not, if new rings are exchanged, and other marital traditions. It’s your celebration, so do what works for you both as a couple.

Plan pre-parties.

You may have had other parties before your wedding, but they aren’t necessary for a vow renewal. Like receiving gifts, those traditions are more appropriate for couples just starting their lives together. Skip the bachelor/bachelorette parties and bridal showers.

Hidden Lake Winery & Banquet Center is the perfect location to renew your commitment to each other. This winery in Aviston, IL, has several romantic reception venues that offer seating for up to 500 guests. You and your spouse will love their romantic cabin rentals complete with fireplaces and jacuzzi tubs. Learn more about their services on their website and call (618) 228-911 to discuss your ceremony with a team member.