A Kentish Renewal of Vows - Say “I do” Again

This type of personal and fulfilling ceremony is often associated with a special  anniversary, such as the tenth, twenty-fifth, fortieth etc. but they do not have to be, and can be the precursor to a party or celebration. The ceremony can however, be just as appropriate for couples at any stage of their marriage. It can sometimes 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 to each other.

A marriage or civil partnership ceremony is a very individual and personal occasion which can be very rewarding when shared with family and friends. Where couples have married or registered their civil partnership abroad, often with few family and friends with them, they can on their return home feel a need for some form of ceremony to which those family and friends who missed the original ceremony can share - a Kentish Renewal of Vows ceremony can provide the answer.

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.

Who are they for?

Any married couple or couple in a registered civil partnership may arrange a Kentish Renewal of Vows ceremony. The couple can be of any age and be married or in a civil partnership for any length of time. You do not have to live in the area where you want your ceremony. The ceremonies are non-restrictive, secular and do not contain religious references.

Your Unique Ceremony!

The content of the ceremony is chosen by you from a number of choices and, just as no two couples are the same, so no two ceremonies to renew vows will ever be 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. Therefore 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 the original wedding or civil partnership, and particular friends and relatives. You will also need to ask two people to witness the signing of the certificate of the event.

The ceremony will be conducted by a celebrant provided and trained by Kent County Council.

What does the ceremony contain?

Kentish Renewal of Marriage Vows ceremonies can contain the following choices :- an Introduction and Welcome, Acknowledgement of any children, Readings, Renewal of Vows, Rededication of ring(s), Giving of new ring(s) or gift(s), Messages from previous guests, Special music, Signing of commemorative Certificate and closing words.

Normally ceremonies last between 15 and 30 minutes dependant upon the choices that the couple have made, any readings, and the inclusion or involvement of family members and friends.

A special Kentish souvenir commemorative Certificate of the ceremony is signed by the couple, their witnesses and the celebrant.

Where can these ceremonies be held?

Kentish Renewal of Vows ceremonies can be held in a range of specially 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 summer days ceremonies may also be held in gardens attached to these venues). The availability of dates and times of ceremonies does vary between venues and couples are advised to check. Celebrants are available to conduct ceremonies between 8 a.m. and 6 p.m. on any day of the year.