For a number of couples, whose marriages teetered on the brink of divorce and were salvaged by hard work and commitment, they want to celebrate their newly rekindled love with a vow renewal ceremony. But how to go about it? Good question. Here are a few pointers to consider.

First, the entire point here is to celebrate your renewed love and commitment to each other. So if you put it into perspective, any gathering or ceremony that you choose to mark the occasion is fine. However, it’s important to remember that this isn’t a wedding!

You don’t need to spend lavishly on a white dress or mounds of flowers, and you most certainly don’t need a bachelor or bachelorette party the night before. In fact, no maid of honor, bridesmaids, or ring bearer are required. And definitely no gift registry!

Some people prefer an intimate gathering with close friends and family at home. Others prefer something a little more public, like a gathering in a park and then a group dinner at a favorite restaurant. Whatever you choose is fine, just don’t lose sight of the main focus – celebrating your rekindled love.

If you and your spouse choose to make a little speech, or share some of the journey that has brought you to this place in your relationship, be very careful what you share. Obviously the two of you have put whatever it was behind you and moved forward, so keep the emphasis on that.

After all, this is about your future together, not your past. Your guests don’t need the lurid details of the affair that nearly destroyed your marriage, or the gambling addiction that almost sent you both to bankruptcy court. Simple and positive is the key.

Remember that this is about love, not appearances or opportunities to score gifts.

Because a reaffirmation of vows is not a legal ceremony, you will not need to get a license or sign any paperwork. However, you may wish to create a certificate to mark the occasion, or simply type up the new vows you exchanged and frame them somewhere in your home.

It is possible to hire a photographer for the occasion, but that can be very pricey. Professional wedding photographers in the mid-Michigan area typically charge $200 to $300 an hour. Instead, consider asking a few friends to take some pictures for posterity and save yourself the cash. With today’s digital cameras, you don’t need years of schooling to get great pictures.

And finally, if you have children, it would be a nice gesture to include them. After all, they are a vital and very important part of your family, and a product of your love. Allowing them to play a special role in the proceedings would be a way to make them feel special and included.

If however, reaffirming your wedding vows just isn’t a possibility because saving your marriage is no longer an option, we are here to help. The skilled family law attorneys at The Kronzek Firm have helped hundreds of people through their divorces over the years, and our experience is unparalleled. If you are considering ending your marriage, call 866 766 5245 today.