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HOW TO PLAN YOUR VOW RENEWAL IN AUSTRALIA

A GUIDE TO CELEBRATING YOUR EVERLASTING LOVE WITH A VOW RENEWAL IN AUSTRALIA.

So, you’re wanting to commemorate a milestone anniversary?! Or you’re here because you find yourself reminiscing about your big wedding ceremony, wishing it had been more intimate? Or is it that you just want to simply reignite your love story?!

YES, YES, YES! Well, you’ve landed on the right page!

In this comprehensive guide I’ll take you through the process of planning an unforgettable celebration of love / vow renewal ceremony. From advice on choosing the perfect location to ideas on what to wear, and tips on creating a personalised ceremony.

Before we get deep, it’s important to remember – don’t get caught up in the ‘wedding planning’ again. Yes, there is definitely a planning stage but not near as much!

“The location was beyond stunning, and getting back into our wedding outfits and being able to spend time together doing something crazy was beyond special, even a little romantic. Love this day almost as much as the day when we really did marry each other” – Luke and Leigh

THE DETAILS

Capturing the memories

Some would argue the order of importance when it comes to locking in vendors and I could be biased here but the first step in planning your vow renewal is choosing a photographer. Because if they’re anything like me they will *almost* do all the planning for you ?And just like your wedding day, your vow renewal ceremony is a special occasion that deserves to be captured. There will be similar emotions and intimate moments that you’ll want to remember forever.

Choosing a location

Australia’s incredible landscapes provide an array of stunning locations for vow renewals. And unlike during your wedding planning, your dreams aren’t about to be crushed because the venue you so badly wanted isn’t available for your date.

Your vow renewal ceremony can take place nearly anywhere! I encourage my couples to choose a place that holds special meaning to them. Whether it’s on a secluded beach, amidst the lush rainforests, or against the backdrop of the rugged Outback, choose a setting that aligns with your sense of adventure.

What to wear

Throw out the fashion dos and don’ts because at a vow renewal, anything goes! Celebrate your love in your own unique style. Strut around in a bright pink mini dress adorned with sequined love hearts—because who said you can’t be the human embodiment of love itself? And gentlemen, why not rock a suave green velvet suit jacket? Embrace the bold, the unconventional, and the downright fabulous. After all, love is the best dress code, and confidence is the best accessory.

Flowers / Bouquet

Having a bouquet for your vow renewal is entirely a personal preference. Some couples choose to embrace the tradition of carrying a bouquet, while others prefer a more relaxed approach. Bouquets do add a lovely touch and ladies, if you’re already worried about what to do with your hands bouquets can be a great distraction.

P.S. Your local florist will generally have beautiful grab and go bouquets on the ready! #budgettip

Bouquet from Petal Head Farm, Gympie Queensland

Inviting Guests (or not)

If you answered YES to the opening question you’re here because you find yourself reminiscing about your big wedding ceremony, wishing it had been more intimate?, I won’t need to do any further arm twisting. But if you’re sitting on the fence about who to invite it’s time to channel your inner rebel.

Let it be a just-the-two-of-us kind of ceremony. It’s your chance to embrace the pure, unfiltered connection you share without worrying about who’s judging your kissing skills.

If, however, you have since had children and would love to include them, I’m so down for this.

Like any good elopement/vow renewal photographer, I’ll be the stealthy ninja in the bushes, armed with a zoom lens to capture those stolen glances, secret giggles and of course the big ol pash that’s just for the two of you.

If you’re still not convinced on ditching the crowd, it will of course be just as beautiful to have your closest friends and family present. Reckon they’ll want to hide in the bushes with me?

THE CEREMONY

Vow Renewal Legalities

Unlike weddings, there is no legally binding aspect for vow renewals in Australia. They are simply a symbolic ceremony, focusing solely on the celebration of love and commitment.

Ceremony Vows and readings

One of the most important aspects of a vow renewal ceremony is exchanging vows or reading a tear-jerking love letter to your partner. Take the time to reflect on your journey as a married couple. You can choose to renew your original vows or create new ones that reflect the growth and experiences you’ve shared.

In addition to vows, consider incorporating readings or rituals that hold special meaning for you. This could be a favourite poem, a song lyric, or a symbolic gesture like lighting a unity candle. Personalize your ceremony to make it a true reflection of your unique love story.

Deciding whether or not to have a Celebrant

The presence of a celebrant or officiant is not strictly essential for vow renewals. You have the flexibility to design your vow renewal ceremony based on their preferences.

That said, some couples choose to have a celebrant or officiant to guide the ceremony, offer reflections or blessings, and provide a sense of structure. A celebrant can add a special touch to the event, helping to create a meaningful and personalised ceremony.

If you would prefer a more casual and intimate celebration, you can lead the ceremony yourselves, involve family/close friend, or the photographer will guide the order of events. Ultimately, the decision to have a celebrant is entirely up to you.

Choosing music

Music has the power to evoke emotions and set the mood for your vow renewal ceremony. Choose songs that hold significance for you as a couple, whether it’s the song you danced to on your wedding day or a song that represents a special moment in your relationship.

Create your romantic bombshell playlist, share it with me and I’ve got the rest. Afterall, I’m much more than a photographer!

Picnic, Champagne, and Cake

Pack a picnic and add a touch of bubbly champagne to raise a toast to the years of laughter, adventures, and, of course, love. And let’s not forget the cake, because every celebration deserves a sweet finale.

VOW RENEWAL CHECKLIST

As we wrap up this guide to crafting the ultimate vow renewal in Australia, remember one thing: there are no rulebooks in the language of love. Whether you choose to celebrate in a lush garden, on a sandy beach, or in the comfort of your backyard surrounded by pizza boxes from your favorite shop, the key ingredient is the love you share. So, throw on that sparkly dress, don a velvet suit, or perhaps go au naturel. It’s your love story, and the script is all yours to continue writing.

Lastly, here’s a cheeky little checklist to ensure your vow renewal is as unforgettable as your first “I dos”