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.

Perhaps you have been married overseas and wish to conduct a ceremony in Australia.

Appropriate times to renew your vows

The ceremony is often associated with a special wedding anniversary, but they do not have to be, and 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 however, on their return home they may want some form of ceremony in which their family and friends can share.

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 may want 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 two couples are the same, no two renewals 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 two 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 two people to witness the signing of the certificate of the event.

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 brides father)
Special music
Signing of commemorative certificate and closing words

How long is the ceremony?

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

So talk to Jan Littlejohn for a very special ceremony…..

I love you not only for who you are
But for what I am when I am with you
For not only what you made of yourself
But what you are making of me
 ......Anon

Costs

Fees can be paid by cash, cheque or direct debit. Water taxis or parking at Opera House.  A surcharge of $15.00 for inner City travel/parking.