Question from Mickey:
We are planning on renewing our vows after 20 years at sea. I was just wondering do we have a wedding party and such? Also we are inviting our friends to go on the Alaskian cruise with us to help celebrate!! And do I have my dad walk down with me!!
Answer from Bridal Expert Angela:
How you plan the renewal of your wedding vows is up to you. There is a lot of leeway in planning a “renewal” event. But saying that, here are some ideas for you.
If your original wedding party is available, you would have them at the reception at the head table. They would not be part of the renewal ceremony unless they did a special reading or something else. They won’t be “standing up” for you as a couple at the ceremony. But, saying that, I have seen a bridal party all dressed up and reenacting the wedding. There is more work with this option, as you need to pick dresses and accessories, and most people don’t want to go through the trouble and the expense. Also, not everyone from the original bridal party is available after 20 years.
Usually the couple come up the aisle together to signify their many years together.
You may choose to honour the original bridal party and your parents by seating them at the front in a place of honour right before you walk up the aisle as a couple.
That is how it is usually done. Saying that, know that you can change this if you choose to. A renewal of vows is a very personal statement of your life together, and you can express it in any way you choose.
Enjoy the cruise (what a great idea!). If you have any other questions, please feel free to ask.
Angela Fiebelkorn, Ask The Expert
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