So you’ve decided to say “I still do”—amazing! Whether you’re celebrating 5 years or 50, planning a vow renewal gives you the chance to create a day that’s filled with meaning, fun, and your unique love story.

But where do you start?

These top 5 vow renewal planning tips will help you set the tone, find your style, and build a celebration that’s just right for the two of you.

Tip 1: Embrace a Theme That Feels Like You

Having a theme doesn’t mean matching everything to a single color—it means creating a cohesive vibe that guides your decisions and brings everything together.

Think about:

• The era you fell in love (hello, retro glam or roaring ’20s!)
• Shared passions (travel, jazz, coastal living)
• A favorite location or destination
• Your wedding style, revisited or reimagined

Pro tip: A theme helps you make faster decisions—from invitations to flowers to your outfit—because you already know what fits (and what doesn’t).

Tip 2: Let Personal Details Steal the Show

This is your celebration, so let it feel like you. Whether that means incorporating your favorite foods, quoting your favorite movie in your vows, or serving desserts that remind you of your honeymoon, now’s the time to tell your story.

Ideas to try:

• Serve your go-to date-night meal.
• Create a menu based on where you met, traveled, or live.
• Highlight your differences in a fun way: Beer and wings for him, martinis and macarons for her.

When guests see and taste “you” in the details, it makes the whole day more memorable.

Tip 3: Create Signature Cocktails

Want your reception to feel upscale without the full-bar price tag? Signature cocktails are the answer.

Make it meaningful:
Pick a drink that reminds you of a special trip or moment, or craft something totally new together. Serve it alongside his-and-hers mocktails or wine to keep costs (and cleanup) low.

Bonus: Signature drinks make for amazing photo ops and a fun story to share with guests!

Tip 4: Dine and Dance After Dark

Dreaming of a fun, “adults only” vibe? Consider a vow renewal ceremony at 7 or 8 p.m., followed by a stylish evening reception with dancing, mood lighting, and lighter fare.

Evening reception perks:

• Skip the full dinner—serve small plates, desserts, or appetizers.
• Create a party atmosphere that feels romantic and sophisticated.
• End the night with a fun twist like late-night milk & cookies or a breakfast snack bar.

Less pressure. More fun.

Tip 5: Add Just the Right Amount of Sparkle

Want your celebration to feel a little extra? A few well-placed details can add serious dazzle—without going full disco ball.

Ideas to try:

• Wear a beaded or sequined accessory, like a sash or hair clip.
• Add edible glitter to your cake or cocktail rims.
• Use crystals or metallics in centerpieces, signage, or even your bouquet.

The key? Balance sparkle with simplicity so the bling complements, not competes.

Final Thoughts: Keep It Fun, Keep It You

Your vow renewal isn’t about impressing anyone—it’s about celebrating your journey together and creating a new, joyful memory. Whether you’re planning an intimate backyard brunch or a full-blown glam bash, use these vow renewal planning tips to stay grounded, excited, and fully in love with every part of the process.

You’ve already built a life together—now it’s time to celebrate it in a way that feels perfectly you.