Overview
A renewal of vows ceremony is sometimes called a reaffirmation ceremony. It's a ceremony for couples who wish to celebrate renewing their vows in a unique and personal ceremony.
One of our experienced celebrants will present your personally-designed ceremony to make the occasion a day to remember.
We're legally required to make sure your guests are aware that they are attending a renewal of vows ceremony.
Why you may want to renew your vows
A renewal of vows ceremony is a very special way to enhance anniversary celebrations, or to share your commitment to each other with family and friends.
It's often associated with a special anniversary but it's appropriate for couples at any stage who wish to celebrate their renewed commitment to each other.
It's also popular with couples who previously married or formed their civil partnership abroad. The ceremony allows them to celebrate with a larger circle of family and friends.
Your ceremony
Ceremonies last up to 30 minutes.
You must agree the content of the ceremony in advance with the Superintendent Registrar who is attending the ceremony.
You cannot have any religious music, readings, words or performances. If you want to choose your own music, you may bring your own CD or device that plays music, like a mobile phone.
At the heart of the ceremony will be your wish to re-affirm your vows to each other. It's a also a chance to make your new vows to each other in front of your friends and family. You may want to thank special members of your family like your children or parents for all the support they have provided.
Rings
Most couples choose to have rings included in the ceremony. You can either re-use the rings from your original ceremony or have new ones. The rings can be presented by the best man from your original ceremony, a new friend, a child, or whoever you want to include.
You may prefer to give tokens of the reaffirmation you're making. Whatever your choices, we're here to help make this a special and memorable occasion.
Ceremony certificate
At the end of the ceremony, you'll receive a certificate commemorating the ceremony. The certificate is a memento of the day and is included in the cost of the ceremony.
Book your ceremony
We offer ceremonies on most days at most times.
We'll arrange an appointment for you to meet a celebrant to design your unique ceremony.
To make an enquiry or book an appointment, email us at registrar@royalgreenwich.gov.uk