YOUR CEREMONY
TO BE CONTINUED
WHETHER YOU HAD AN INTIMATE WEDDING DUE TO COVID-19 , OR WANT TO CELEBRATE A SPECIAL ANNIVERSARY , A RENEWAL OF VOWS CEREMONY IS THE PERFECT CHANCE TO REAFFIRM YOUR VOWS IN FRONT OF ALL YOUR FRIENDS AND FAMILY
WHAT IS A RENEWAL OF VOWS CEREMONY ? It is a ceremony aimed at couples wanting to renew their commitment to each other in a unique and personal way . They are held for a variety of reasons , from couples celebrating a special anniversary to those who have overcome adversity from illness etc . They are also commonly held for couples who have married abroad and whose families and friends have missed the celebrations . A renewal of vows allows them to stage another ceremony ( although this is not a legal ceremony ) in front of all their loved ones , often followed by a big party . This makes them a great option for couples who , due to Covid-19 restrictions , married with fewer guests than they originally wanted .
WHAT INFORMATION IS NEEDED ? While this ceremony has no legal effect , it is a public statement of a couple ’ s continuing love and affection for one another . You will need to produce a copy of your original marriage certificate or civil partnership schedule . ( The marriage or civil partnership must be recognised in this country .)
HOW CAN I MAKE THE CEREMONY UNIQUE ? Your ceremony will be unique because you decide the content from a number of choices provided by the registration service . We welcome your personal touch in the ceremony , and 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 - for example , your children , guests who were at the marriage or civil partnership ceremony and close friends and relatives . You may also choose to ask two people to witness the signing of the Kentish commemorative certificate of the occasion . A celebrant provided by Kent County Council will conduct the ceremony .
WHAT DOES THE CEREMONY CONTAIN ? Kentish renewal of vows ceremonies can contain the following choices :
• Introduction and welcome
• Acknowledgment of any children
• Readings
• Poetry
• Renewal of vows
• Rededication of ring ( s )
• Giving of new ring ( s ) or gift ( s )
• Special music
• Signing of commemorative certificate and closing words
LOOKING FOR A VENUE ? See a full list of venues across Kent from page 137 .
22 | AKENTISHCEREMONY . COM | SUMMER 2023