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Frequently Asked Questions

We have compiled a list of frequently asked questions about our Renewal of Vows ceremonies.

If you question is not listed, please contact the ceremony team who will be happy to help you.

We would really like to hold our ceremony in our local village hall, would that be ok?

Gloucestershire Registration Service encourages families to hold their celebration where they feel most comfortable, we would simply be required to conduct a risk assessment in your chosen location. An additional fee will apply.

My partner and I have recently been married abroad and would really like to celebrate with our family and friends at home. Is a Renewal of Vows right for us?

A Renewal of Vows ceremony is perfect for celebrating your love with your family and friends. You could rededicate the rings you gave to one another on your wedding day and even share with your guests an account of your special day in your own words.

Can I arrange a surprise for my partner? We have been married for 40 years this year.

Our ceremonies team will be happy to help plan your surprise, answering all your questions. We will of course take every care when contacting you so that the surprise stays a surprise!

Are we able to include other family members in our celebration?

You can make special acknowledgements to your children and/or grandchildren. This can be done by the Celebrant or by yourselves. You could also ask a member of your family to deliver a reading, or perhaps a grandchild to sing their favourite song or rhyme.

How much like an actual wedding can we make our Renewal of Vows ceremony?

In terms of order of service your Renewal of Vows can follow very closely to a traditional wedding ceremony; you can choose to be given away, exchange rings, and have bridesmaids. However, there is no legal status to a Renewal of Vows ceremony and this point will be made clear by the Celebrant as part of the introduction and welcome. 

Could we write our own vows?

Yes, the choices brochure provides suggestions of what you may like to say to one another. Therefore, except for any religious content, you are free to enhance your ceremony any way you choose. 

My partner and I have had a Civil Partnership, can we have a Renewal of Vows?

Yes, we have a selection of options specifically created for couples who have been through a Civil Partnership. Please find the ceremony brochure here.