Words June Murray Dagnall
Renewing wedding vows is growing in popularity, especially as couples commemorate important anniversaries and milestones in their marriages.
It is a powerful reminder of the love, growth and shared experiences that define your unique relationship. The tradition is nothing new, and dates to ancient Rome where couples would publicly honour the lasting strength of their marriage.
There are no strict guidelines for these ceremonies as they are purely symbolic and personal, allowing couples the flexibility to design an experience that reflects their own unique bond. These events range from sunset cruises and backyard barbecues to grand events as elaborate as one’s original wedding reception. The beauty is that there are no rules, so anything is possible!
Lindsay and Pano (at left) decided to renew their vows, reaffirming their commitment to each other and creating new memories to cherish forever. After planning a trip to Las Vegas to see U2 with another couple, they came up with the notion of renewing their vows. One couple was celebrating their 20th anniversary that year, and the other couple celebrating their 15th. The couples have survived the test of time in multiple ways, including the in-laws, the out-laws, and numerous home improvement projects! Lindsay recounts the most memorable part of the event was when they renewed their vows. She was overcome with emotion, barely able to speak, and witnessing the other couple experience the same deep feelings made the moment even more meaningful. To make it even more memorable, Elvis’ spirit was there with them, as they exchanged their vows at a small chapel just off the Vegas strip, home to the original Elvis-themed vow renewal ceremonies.
Just the four of them were in the tiny chapel just off the Vegas strip, versus their wedding day which had 350 guests. It had been a traditional Greek wedding, complete with “kefi,” an ancient Greek word that conveys a sense of joy, passion and enthusiasm. Their wedding 15 years ago was filled with an undeniable sense of kefi. Their vow renewal in Vegas had just as much of that same energy, full of lighthearted moments and laughter, which helped balance the emotional tears shared by both couples. Lindsay and Pano wholeheartedly recommend vow renewals as it has deepened their unwavering love for one another. For them, it’s their way of saying “I choose you again … I choose you still … I choose you always.”
For Janis and Mike (above), the ideal way to renew their vows was to mark their 25th wedding anniversary in Scotland, a place close to their hearts. Their daughter was studying at the University of Stirling, and Janis has strong Scottish heritage, with family still living near Glasgow. It was the perfect setting to celebrate their love and connection to both the land and their roots.
Janis envisioned herself reciting her vows at Stirling Castle, the very same venue where Sir Rod Stewart held one of his Christmas concerts. If it was good enough for Sir Rod, it was perfect for them as well! The initial plan was soon set aside after learning of the costs; however, a new idea quickly emerged. While they couldn’t exchange their vows inside the Castle, they could still have a ceremony with Stirling Castle as the stunning backdrop.
They discovered a picturesque hilltop tucked within an adjacent cemetery, which became the perfect setting for their special day. There was no officiant, however a local photographer was hired, and Mike, Janis and their daughter gathered on the hilltop. Mike and Janis spoke with deep emotion, reflecting on both the joyful and challenging moments they had shared through the years. The Scottish weather, as unpredictable as always, turned chilly with a strong, biting wind. To escape the cold, the three of them, along with their photographer, set off in search of Highland cows to add a touch of local charm to their photos. The day ended on a joyful note with a lively evening at a nearby pub. The experience deepened this couple’s connection and enhanced their gratitude for one another.
Renewing wedding vows is a powerful reminder of love’s enduring strength, and each renewal is as unique as the couple themselves. Whether it’s a simple private moment or an elaborate celebration, the essence remains the same: reaffirming a bond that has only grown stronger over time. It is not about the perfect ceremony, but the perfect promise to keep choosing each other repeatedly no matter what life throws your way, or who ate the last piece of pizza!
