Vow renewal garden party
A short, heartfelt vow renewal under a flower arch, then a relaxed garden party with afternoon tea or a barbecue.
- Guests
- 20-60 guests
- Party length
- 4-5 hours
- Prep time
- Several weeks
- Ages
- All ages
What it is
A renewal of wedding vows for a milestone anniversary. Less formal than a wedding, it’s often in a garden with a celebrant, close family and friends, and the couple’s children or grandchildren involved.
Plan ahead
- Three months before: book a celebrant (vow renewals aren’t legal ceremonies, so anyone can lead it).
- Six weeks before: send invitations, plan the meal and hire chairs and an arch.
- Two weeks before: write new vows and choose readings.
The ceremony
- Welcome from the celebrant
- A reading by a child or grandchild
- The couple’s new vows to each other
- Exchange of new rings, or a blessing of the old ones
- A kiss, cheers and confetti
Set the scene
A flower arch, chairs in rows with an aisle, bunting, and a table with their original wedding photo.
Food and drink
- Afternoon tea or a barbecue
- Champagne toast
- A cake that echoes the original wedding cake
Tips
- Keep the ceremony short and personal.
- Biodegradable petal confetti only.
On the day
- Arrival (20 min): guests take seats facing the arch.
- Ceremony (20 min): a celebrant, readings, new vows and ring exchange or blessing.
- Drinks and photos (40 min).
- Meal (60 min): afternoon tea, barbecue or a buffet.
- Cake and toast (20 min).
- Music and dancing (60 min).
Shopping list
wedding flower arch
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anniversary rings
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vow renewal decorations
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garden chairs hire
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wedding bunting
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celebration cake stand
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