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5th Wedding Anniversary Gifts: 50 Anniversary Gift Ideas

Reaching your 5th wedding anniversary is such an amazing achievement. That’s half a decade married to the love of your life, which is something that should definitely be celebrated. That means it’s the perfect opportunity to give your partner a gift that’s absolutely jam-packed with symbolism and meaning.

But what sort of gift should you give your partner to mark your 5th anniversary? Should it be something they’ve asked for and you know they’d love, something that fits close to their passions and interests, or something else? There are traditional and modern anniversary gifts that couples have been giving each other for more than 100 years – as well as a traditional gemstone and flower. That’s not to say that they’re rules you have to stick to, but they can elevate your gift-giving and give it the deep level of meaning that’s fitting for such a fabulous milestone.

In this guide, we’re going to offer you 50 ideas for a 5th wedding anniversary gift, to give you a great place to start in your hunt for the perfect pressie. Then you can take the plunge and pick something up that you know your partner will truly love.

For more information on the different traditions associated with anniversaries from 1 to 90 years, read our complete year-by-year wedding anniversary gift guide.

What are traditional and modern gifts for a 5th wedding anniversary?

Traditional 5th anniversary gifts are filled with symbolism, so you can give your partner something that has meaning and thoughtfulness. There are traditional and modern gifts, as well as a traditional flower and gemstone, giving you plenty of opportunities to do something a little bit different.

The traditional and modern 5th wedding anniversary gifts

Traditional 5th anniversary gift – Wood

Of course, wood comes from trees, and trees are strong and durable. They can also grow to become exceptionally tall and withstand anything thanks to deep and unshaken roots. And even the tallest tree came from the tiniest of saplings. This is much like your marriage, which over the last five years has become strong enough to take on the world. Wood is also a versatile material and gifts come in various shapes and sizes, to suit loads of different budgets.

Modern 5th anniversary gift – Silverware

The modern 5th anniversary gift is silverware, which, if we’re being totally honest, isn’t actually very modern at all anymore. It represents wealth and glamour, which means it can be a fairly expensive gift option to choose. But it can also be luxurious and spectacular.

5th anniversary gemstone – Sapphire

Sapphire is the traditional 5th anniversary gemstone, a blindingly blue precious stone that symbolises wealth and royalty. And because it’s classed as a precious stone, it can be relatively pricey – but that also means it’s stunning when set in jewellery or accessories.

5th anniversary flower – Daisy

The traditional 5th anniversary flower is the humble daisy, one of the symbols of spring that represents purity and joy. It’s also the quintessential flower, with an open head with long and slender petals. Daisies are traditionally white, but also come in different colours such as yellow, purple and red.

How do you choose a gift for a 5th wedding anniversary?

If you’re not sure what kind of gift to give your partner to commemorate your 5th anniversary, but you know you’d like to give them something with important meaning, how do you narrow it down? Think about the following points before making your decision:

Are you interested in following the traditional and modern rules? If so, think about what type of meaning you’d like your gift to convey. It’s also important to remember that you don’t have to stick to these gifts if you don’t want to.
What’s your budget? It’s possible to pick up a wooden anniversary gift for relatively cheap, but the same can’t be said about silverware, which is notoriously pricey. This could sway your decision.
Are you interested in personalisation? Wooden gifts are great for offering personalised touches. You can get personalised silverware, but it’ll add to an already rather high cost.
What would your partner like? Have they told you they’d like something in particular? If so, how does this align with the traditional and modern 5th anniversary gifts?

If a couple in your life is about to celebrate their 5th anniversary, you might be interested to know whether or not you can join in by giving them a wooden or silverware gift. Well, the good news is, you’re more than welcome to stick to the traditional or modern gift-giving rules, and it’s a great way to tell the couple that you’ve put extra thought into their surprise.

50 ideas for a 5th wedding anniversary gift

It might not be long until your 5th wedding anniversary, which can be a tricky one if you’re looking to celebrate it by giving your partner a traditional or modern gift. Silverware might be on the expensive side, but thankfully wood gives you loads of possibilities. So, below are 50 ideas to get you thinking creatively about what your partner might love.

10 traditional gifts for a 5th wedding anniversary

The traditional 5th anniversary gift is wood, which at first you might assume is a rather dull gift to give someone you love. But, the expectation isn’t that you’ll give your partner a lump of 2 by 4 – it’s actually an incredibly versatile material that gives you practically endless options. So, here are 10 wood-themed anniversary gift ideas to give you a little inspiration.

1. A wooden photo frame

Many of us love to have photos of ourselves, loved ones and the things and places we’ve experienced either hung on the wall or displayed on a shelf. Since it’s been five years since the two of you tied the knot, you could frame your favourite wedding photo and give it to your partner in a wooden photo frame. A simple and classic gift that’s hard to get wrong.

2. Personalised wooden coasters

We all need coasters, and they’re perfect for injecting a bit of you and the things you love into your home. Wood coasters are a great gift that you can make even better with a custom personalisation. The Wood Look lets you give your partner a pair of wooden coasters carved with a special message.

3. A personalised wooden desktop calendar

Calendars are already popular accessories to have on your desk, and are particularly useful if your partner has a habit of asking what day it is or what you have coming up that weekend. A personalised wooden desktop photo calendar can help alleviate any date-related questions they might have, with the added bonus of being highly customisable.

4. Wooden cufflinks

You might not think that wood would be a good material to use in accessories, so you might be surprised to learn that wooden cufflinks are fabulous! They’re unique, stylish and an on-theme 5th anniversary gift that your other half totally won’t expect.

5. A wood-burned photo

We’ve already included a wooden photo frame on this list, but what if the wood was the photo? You can now burn highly-detailed photographs onto a piece of wood, which looks great displayed in your home. Just upload your photo and let the experts on Etsy do the rest. And don’t worry if there’s anything in the background, they’ll take care of all of that for you.

6. A wooden bracelet

First we included wooden cufflinks and now we’re including a wooden bracelet! The walnut and grey of a wooden bracelet is like no other jewellery your partner has and can be worn with loads of different outfits and suits various styles. We bet they’ll never see a gift like this coming!

7. Wooden garden bench

If you have a back garden with enough room to spare, a wooden garden bench can provide you with somewhere to sit and relax and enjoy the summer sun (when we have those rare moments of summer in the UK at least). They can be pricey, but a high-quality bench will last years and whenever there’s a nice day you and your partner can sit outside with an ice-cold drink and think back to your 5th anniversary.

8. Plant a tree in your partner’s name

It’s important that we help support our woodland here in the UK, so it would be totally on-theme to dedicate the planting of a tree to the love of your life. You can do this on the National Trust website, so you know your gift will support a great cause. And you’ll be sent a certificate you can print off so you have something to give your partner on the big day.

9. A personalised pizza board

We’re willing to put money on the fact that your partner loves pizza… most people do, after all! A quirky, fun but also practical gift would be a personalised wooden pizza board, so every time you sit down to enjoy a pizza you can have a lovely reminder of your 5th anniversary.

10. A custom wooden sign for your home

Your partner might have a gaming room they like to retreat to, or perhaps a crafting room, a gym, or a shed they can’t seem to keep out of. If this sounds like your other half, a personalised oak house sign can tell everyone exactly whose space it is. Or, you could simply hang it up next to your front door to display your house name or number.

10 modern gifts for a 5th wedding anniversary

The modern anniversary gift for celebrating five years is silverware. Although it doesn’t feel particularly modern by 21st-century standards, it does still make for an extravagant and thoughtful – if a tad expensive – gift to give your partner for your 5th anniversary. Technically, silverware could include any old set of knives and forks, but when the anniversary gift rules were written it meant the more expensive stuff.

Below, we’ve given you 10 ideas that fit the theme, but with some 21st-century additions for those who might not want to rely on expensive cutlery or gravy boats.

1. A personalised silver spoon

If you’re keen to give your partner some silverware but don’t want to spend hundreds, a personalised silver spoon is a fantastic way to do it. That way you can give something meaningful to your partner but not have to break the bank – or feel guilty about using them or getting them dirty!

2. A silver hipflask

A hipflask is a really extravagant gift to have, especially one made from silver. They can also be personalised to make it extra special. Personalised Hip Flasks offer a rather pricey sterling silver option, or Engravers Guild has a pewter variation which also comes in a wooden case, ticking off both boxes!

3. Silver cufflinks

If your other half is partial to wearing a suit, then a pair of silver cufflinks is a gift that allows them to take you with them wherever they go. They’re also fairly reasonable in price, at least as far as silver gifts go, and offer the option to include an engraved personalisation.

4. A silver guitar pick

The guitar is one of the most popular musical instruments in the UK, so for anyone who has a partner who plays, you’ll know just how much they love playing a tune. They might also be forever losing their picks – so, to celebrate your anniversary, give them a pick they’ll never want to lose in the form of a sterling silver skull guitar pick.

5. Silver photo frame

We’ve already included a wooden photo frame in this list, so it seems only right to include a silver photo frame as well. Wood might not fit your taste or home decor, and a silver frame helps any photo stand out.

6. An engraved silver-plated pen

Many of us use pens throughout the day for work, doodling, journaling and more. If this includes your other half, then a silver-plated pen would make for the perfect gift to mark your 5th anniversary. It can also be engraved if you want to turn an ordinary silver pen (if there is such a thing) into an extraordinary silver pen.

7. Antique silverware

We couldn’t create this list without at least mentioning antique silverware. By today’s standards, silverware is quite old fashioned, not to mention expensive. If you’d love to give your partner some real authentic silverware used by past generations, take a trip to your local antique shop and browse what they have in stock. If you see something you think your partner will really love make sure you snap it up quickly before someone else does.

8. A silver bowl

For something stylishly silver, which can also be put to good use (if you dare) as a serving bowl or fruit bowl, a silver and glass bowl is more traditional silverware but with a more contemporary feel.

9. A silver bookmark

If your partner loves getting lost in a good book, no doubt one of their pet hates is losing their page. Turn their frustrations into a great on-theme 5th anniversary gift with a silver Victorian hand bookmark. For what it is it’s fairly pricey, but your partner’s sure to get a lot of use out of such a meaningful gift.

10. Silver teaspoons

One of the most quintessential silverware gifts you can give is, of course, a silver teaspoon. So if your partner loves the finer things in life, they’ll love a traditional set of teaspoons in a fitted case. They might not want to use them because of how special they are, but they’ll always them as a wonderful keepsakes.

5 affordable gifts for a 5th wedding anniversary

Silverware can be an expensive anniversary gift, and maybe you’re not sure if your partner would love something made of wood – but you still want to give them an on-theme gift to mark five years together. Well, if you’ve got a small budget, you can still give them something filled with meaning. Here are five affordable gifts you can consider giving your other half to celebrate five years.

1. A pair of wood earrings

If you have a partner who loves dangly earrings, then they’ll definitely love these very affordable and very on-theme wood earrings. There are plenty of choices available so you can choose an eye-catching pair of earrings to suit your partner’s taste.

2. Interlocking wooden hearts

For an affordable token 5th anniversary gift that ticks many boxes, interlocking wooden hearts come with a lot of thoughtfulness and meaning behind them. Of course they’re wood, which represents the strength of your relationship, the hearts represent love, and the fact that they’re interlocking represents just how connected you are. Such a lovely sentiment on your big day.

3. A personalised wooden key keychain

A small but thoughtful gift that your partner can always keep with them is a personalised wooden key keychain. It’s neat and high-quality and can include a custom message of your choosing.

4. A wooden clock

For something stylish and practical, as well as totally on-brand with the traditional theme, a wooden clock with its simplistic design will look great hung in any room. That way, your partner will be reminded of your 5th anniversary whenever they check the time.

5. A wooden necklace

Another brilliant piece of wooden jewellery – which also just so happens to be affordable – is a wooden necklace. If your partner likes to wear jewellery and accessories that are big and bold, then they just might well love something colourful and unique. Avalaya has a big selection of wooden necklaces, so check them out and see if there’s something your other half might love.

5 DIY gifts for a 5th wedding anniversary

If you’re keen to make your own DIY anniversary gift to give to your partner to mark five years, there are plenty of options for you as wood is obviously a great material to use for making things. Silverware, on the other hand, perhaps not! If you’re a keen woodworker, you’re probably not struggling for a few ideas, but there are still DIY gifts you can do even with little experience. Here are five to get you started.

1. A whittled wooden ornament

With a chunk of wood and a few basic tools, you can whittle the most beautiful and special ornament with little or no prior experience. You could whittle a duck or a bridge or even you and your partner hand in hand – the options are limitless. You can pick up a beginner’s carving tool kit relatively cheaply, and there are how to start whittling video tutorials available to give you a few ideas.

2. Wooden bunting

Wood makes for a brilliant and durable way to make your very own bunting that you can hang inside or out. And if you make it yourself, there are loads of fun and unique ways you can personalise it to include little touches about your relationship. Check out YouTube for tutorials on how to make personalised wooden bunting.

3. Wooden recipe book stand

If your partner fancies themself as a bit of a whizz in the kitchen, they might have a collection of cookbooks they take inspiration from. Help them keep their recipes to hand and everything neat and tidy with a DIY wooden recipe book stand.

4. Wood coasters

We’ve already included wooden coasters in this list, but DIY wood coasters have a real rustic feel to them which means they don’t lose that fresh-from-nature look. They require a few woodworking tools, so if you have access to some you’re in a great position to give your partner something truly on-theme and full of charm. Check out this DIY wood coaster tutorial on YouTube for easy-to-follow steps.

5. Wooden trinket box

Your partner might have a collection of jewellery and accessories but maybe struggles with somewhere to keep them – you might have even given them many yourself. A DIY wooden trinket box is a super thoughtful and caring gift that’s also incredibly useful. Watch this DIY wooden trinket box tutorial video on YouTube for information on how to make your own.

5 experience or activity gifts for a 5th wedding anniversary

Your anniversary is the perfect opportunity for you and your partner to head off somewhere and experience something fun and unique. But surely you can’t tie something like that into your 5th anniversary? Actually, you might be surprised! Here are five suggestions for wood- and silver-themed experiences.

1. A trip to a cabin in the woods

What could be more on theme for a 5th anniversary experience than staying in a wooden cabin somewhere deep in the woods? That’s so much wood! Your 5th anniversary is the perfect excuse for a woodland getaway so you and your partner can spend some quality, uninterrupted time together. Check out the likes of Forest Holidays and Airbnb for a wide variety of different options.

2. Take part in community tree planting

You could use your 5th anniversary as a way for you and your partner to give a little something back. Community tree planting is a huge nationwide movement that aims to plant millions of trees and increase the size of our woodland areas. Search online to find your nearest community tree-planting event.

3. A fancy afternoon tea

Afternoon tea is seen as a real treat. It’s offered in tea rooms, hotels, attractions, country houses, restaurants… and many are luxurious and extravagant, with some still using posh silverware! Virgin Experience Days have loads of different afternoon tea-related options.

4. A silverware factory tour

By today’s standards, silverware might be seen as a little old fashioned, despite the fact that it’s actually the modern gift for celebrating five years of marriage. But, there are still some producers that manufacture beautiful silverware. Newbridge Silverware is one of those companies, and they just so happen to also offer factory tours just outside of Dublin!

5. Visit a manor or country house

For a taste of how the other half used to live (when they ate from the most expensive silverware as if it were from IKEA), you could visit a castle, abbey or stately home. Many attractions like these offer visitors the opportunity to stroll through the grounds and through the property to check out the extravagance. Some even offer guided tours too. One option is Highclere Castle, which you might recognise as THE Downton Abbey!

10 5th anniversary gifts that contain sapphire

The 5th anniversary gemstone is the incredible precious stone, sapphire. Sapphire is an absolutely wonderful stone that offers intoxicating sparkle and works just as well whether set in jewellery made from gold, silver, platinum or anything else your partner might love. This includes all different kinds of jewellery, so no matter what your partner enjoys wearing, you’re bound to find something just right. Here are 10 ideas you might think about that look fabulous with sapphire.

A necklace
A bracelet
Earrings
Cufflinks
A ring
A broach
A locket
An anklet
A nose stud
Belly button ring

There’s unlikely to be a jeweller out there, including high-street brands and independent retailers, that doesn’t have a huge selection of sapphire jewellery for you to browse. We also work closely with a range of wedding jewellers that offer incredible sapphire jewellery.

5 floral-inspired gifts for a 5th wedding anniversary

Flowers are always a wonderful gift to receive, but on your 5th anniversary, you could give your partner a floral gift with extra special meaning. Daisies are the traditional flower for five years of marriage, and one of the most recognisable flowers there are, which makes them a perfect addition to a bouquet or as inspiration for other gifts. Here are five gift ideas for the daisy-lover in your life.

1. A daisy bouquet

Of course, we couldn’t start this list without including a daisy bouquet. Daisies are small and delicate and come in lots of different colours, which makes them great when included in a floral arrangement or a dedicated daisy bouquet.

2. A Swarovski crystal daisy

Swarovski is one of the most well-known makers of glass and fine crystal, so you know their products are big on quality. That’s why a Swarovski crystal daisy just might be the perfect gift for your partner. And despite it being such a fantastically luxurious gift from a big-name brand, it’s not quite as expensive as you might think.

3. A daisy serving platter

Biscuits, vol-au-vents, cakes, sandwiches… just a few of the many uses for a daisy serving platter. It’s big, it’s bold and it’s instantly recognisable, and it’s something you can break out whenever you have guests over.

4. A sterling silver daisy pendant

It’s silver, it’s a daisy and it’s a double-hitting 5th anniversary gift that has twice as much symbolic meaning. A sterling silver daisy pendant is every bit as eye-catching as it is subtle. It’s not cheap but it is beautiful, and is likely to be something that your partner holds on to for many, many years.

5. A daisy chain ring

Another gift that includes both daisies and silver, a sterling silver daisy chain ring is actually relatively affordable and includes two links to traditional 5th anniversary gifts. It’s also a subtle nod to your anniversary that your partner can wear and pair with a wide range of styles and outfits.

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4th Wedding Anniversary Gifts: 50 Anniversary Gift Ideas

You’ve spent four wonderful years together and you and your partner are deeper in love than ever. Your 4th anniversary is a wonderful milestone, and it deserves to be celebrated. It’s also a great opportunity for you and your other half to spoil each other.

But what should you give them to mark such a brilliant occasion? You more than likely have a few ideas about what your partner loves and the type of gifts that make them smile. But, there are specific traditional and modern gifts that many couples like to give each other to commemorate four years of marriage. Similarly, there’s also a traditional flower and gemstone that has a specific meaning.

So, in this guide, we’re going to explore all the traditions surrounding your 4th wedding anniversary to help you choose a gift that has extra special sentimentality.

For more information about what couples give each other for their anniversaries from 1 to 90 years, read our complete year-by-year wedding anniversary gift guide.

What are traditional and modern gifts for a 4th wedding anniversary?

The traditional and modern 4th wedding anniversary gifts

For more than 100 years, couples have enjoyed giving each other one of the traditional or modern gifts associated with a 4th anniversary, as well as the traditional flower or gemstone… or even a combination of more than one. They each have a deep meaning behind them that makes gift-giving even more thoughtful.

Traditional 4th anniversary gift – Fruit or flowers

For the traditional anniversary gift for four years of marriage, there are actually two for you to choose from: fruit or flowers. Fruit represents the sweetness and growth of your marriage, and flowers also represent growth as well and beauty. With a little imagination, it opens you up to some really amazing gifts – or a bouquet of beautiful flowers will always hit the spot.

Modern 4th anniversary gift – Appliances

The modern gift for a 4th anniversary is appliances, which doesn’t seem like an obvious choice. Then again, even the modern anniversary gifts were created 100 years ago when there weren’t as many options as there are today and appliances weren’t as common. We can’t imagine your partner would love an iron as an anniversary gift (or maybe they would?) but there’s a huge range of possibilities out there.

4th anniversary gemstone – Topaz

The 4th anniversary gemstone is topaz – specifically blue topaz. It’s usually a striking shade of blue that offers a lot of stunning sparkle. It represents clarity and wisdom, which you no doubt have plenty of after four years of marriage. Blue topaz also goes well set in all types of jewellery, giving you loads of opportunities to find something your partner will love.

4th anniversary flower – Hydrangea (or sometimes geranium)

Hydrangeas are big blooms that come in a massive range of different and vivid colours, so you’ll have no problem finding one that fits your partner’s preferences. Hydrangeas represent grace and beauty, making them a lovely gesture to give to your other half to mark your big day.

Depending on where you look or who you ask, another flower also associated with four years is the geranium, which is smaller and more delicate than hydrangeas but still just as beautiful. They represent happiness and health, which is just lovely.

How do you choose a gift for a 4th wedding anniversary?

With so many options available to choose from (three gifts, two flowers and a gemstone) how can you possibly choose the best gift to give your partner for your four year anniversary? Well, there are several things to consider before you make your decision:

Do you both care about the traditional and modern rules? If you do, finding something that’s on theme will be a high priority, but it’s not something you should necessarily feel obliged to stick to if you don’t want to.
Do you have a budget? Appliances, gemstones and flowers can be pricey. Make sure to set your budget ahead of time and don’t be tempted to go over it.
How much personalisation are you looking for in a gift? Personalised gifts can turn an ordinary gift (if there is such a thing) into an extraordinary gift. But not all gifts can be personalised, so think about if this is something you want to do.
What are your partner’s tastes? The traditional and modern gifts might not be something your partner would particularly enjoy, so think about their interests and how they line up with these.

If you have a friend or relative who’ll soon celebrate four years with their partner, you might wonder whether you can join in on anniversary gift-giving traditions. Well, thankfully, the answer is yes! Anyone can feel free to join in, and it shows them that you’ve put a lot of thought and consideration into your gift.

50 ideas for a 4th wedding anniversary gift

If your 4th wedding anniversary is just around the corner and you want to give your other half a gift filled with special meaning, with so many gifts to choose from you might not know where to start. So, below are 50 ideas that fit the 4th anniversary themes to help get you started.

10 traditional gifts for a 4th wedding anniversary

There are two traditional anniversary gifts for a 4th wedding anniversary: fruit or flowers. That means, there are loads of options to choose from which should (hopefully) make choosing one that little bit easier. And to help you get started, here are 10 ideas for fruit- and flower-themed anniversary gifts.

1. A fresh fruit hamper

Fruit is sweet and tasty and if your partner loves it, it can be an ideal gift. But, rather than just chucking them a bunch of bananas, how do you elevate fruit? Well, the most simple way to turn humble fruit into a brilliant gift is in the form of a hamper. Express4fruits has a ton of fruit baskets to choose from, to suit loads of different budgets and tastes.

2. A fruiting plant

Another way to give a fruity gift to your partner is in the form of a fruiting plant or tree. Then it’s a little bit like two gifts in one, fitting the fruit theme while being something your partner can care for and watch grow. You can choose anything from a kiwi plant to an olive tree, many of which can thrive in the UK. Browse Plants4presents to see the kind of fruiting plants that are available.

3. Delicious fruit preserves

If you’re concerned about giving your partner a gift they might not be able to eat through in time but still want to give something fruity, then delicious jams or preserves are a wonderful on-theme gift. Plus, why not pair it with some clotted cream and scones and treat them to a homemade afternoon tea? A fruit preserve gift box could be just the gift you’re looking for.

4. Fruit-scented candles

You could bend the rules a tad and give your other half something romantic and thoughtful but still very much in the spirit of the traditional 4th anniversary gift. Fruit candles smell absolutely amazing and help set the mood for a romantic evening celebrating four years together. A nice set like the fruit scent stack from Scented Candle Studio could be everything you need.

5. A flowery fruit basket

If you can’t decide between fruit and flowers as a gift to give your partner on your anniversary, then why not simply give them both in the form of an edible flowery fruit basket? They’re fantastic show-stopping works of art that your partner just won’t see coming!

6. An M&S bouquet

There are flowers, then there are M&S flowers. Yes, everyone knows that M&S is a brand associated with quality, and the same applies to their flowers. There are absolutely oodles of choices too, so whether you want something romantic, something colourful or something subtle, you’re bound to find something your partner will love. Browse the M&S site to see what sort of bouquets they have to offer.

7. A dried floral bouquet

Fresh flowers are often a go-to floral gift for many, but there’s something quite beautiful and delicate about dried flowers that means they’re also a wonderful option. They can be just as colourful and come in a wide variety of styles as fresh flowers. And there’s the added benefit that they don’t wilt nearly as long – in fact, many will last up to three years! Check out The Happy Blossoms to see just how incredible dried bouquets can be.

8. A custom flower arrangement

If you know exactly the kind of flowers your partner loves, then why not trust a floral expert to craft a bouquet featuring all their favourite blooms? A bouquet builder ensures you give your partner a carefully made flower arrangement that’s guaranteed to put a huge smile on their face on your anniversary.

9. A pressed flower necklace

For a floral gift that will last a lifetime, a pressed flower necklace preserves your partner’s favourite flower in resin which they can wear any time they like. That way, they’ll always have a reminder of your thoughtfulness which they can take with them wherever they are.

10. A LEGO bouquet

Another floral gift that will never wilt comes in the form of a LEGO bouquet, which looks pretty darn realistic when displayed in a vase! There’s also the fun the two of you can have building them together, and you don’t need to get someone round to water them when you go on holiday!

10 modern gifts for a 4th wedding anniversary

If you’re not sure your partner would love fruit or flowers as an anniversary gift, the modern equivalent is, believe it or not, appliances! There’s a lot of choice out there, but here are 10 ideas to get you on your way.

1. A mixer

If your partner’s a keen baker and has perhaps marvelled at the mixers on The Great British Bake Off, then they’d probably love a KitchenAid mixer. They’re the crème de la crème of kitchen appliances and are super high quality. But, they can be quite pricey, so just make sure they align with your budget.

2. An air fryer

One of the most fashionable kitchen appliances of the decade is the air fryer, which encourages healthier cooking in a short amount of time, helping to save energy and money. Win win! Air fryers may seem like a gimmick, but they’re surprisingly versatile, so aren’t necessarily one of those appliances you’ll only dig out of the cupboard once in a blue moon. Check out the range of air fryers available at Currys to find one that’ll suit you.

3. A soup maker

Soup is a great winter-warming comfort food, but it can be a bit of a hassle to make at home. Not with a soup maker! All your partner has to do is throw in the ingredients and let it do its thing. Then, in less than 30 minutes they’ll have a yummy bowl of soup made exactly how you like it. Check out the Argos website to view their range of soup makers.

4. A coffee machine

If your partner loves a nice cup of coffee in the morning, they’ll know just how tricky it can be to get that barista-made taste at home. But, they can get a step closer with a coffee machine, whether it’s a traditional coffee maker or one that lets you simply pop in a pod – coffee machines are really varied. And thankfully, they also suit a range of budgets. Check out the wide selection at John Lewis to find something that suits your partner’s taste in coffee.

5. A Dyson Airwrap

Dyson may have made a name for itself as a manufacturer of super-powerful vacuum cleaners, but in recent years they’ve branched out into other appliances, including a firm hair care favourite with the Dyson Airwrap. It’s considered one of the best multi-stylers out there and does everything from drying to straightening. They can be quite pricey, though – but many will say it’s worth it!

6. A Stitch waffle maker

If your other half loves Disney and grew up watching Lilo and Stitch, then they’ll definitely love a Stitch mini waffle maker. It might not be something they’ll use every day, but you’ll be able to cook up a fun and tasty breakfast on the morning of your anniversary – you could even pair it with some fruit compote to include the traditional gift, too.

7. A slow cooker

If you’re both busy professionals, then it can be tough finding the time to make sure you’re eating home-cooked food. A slow cooker is a great way to make sure your home is filled with incredible smells when you walk through the door, without you having to spend hours slaving away in the kitchen. Morphy Richards is known for their great range of slow cookers with options to suit all needs and budgets.

8. A Hotel Chocolat Velvetiser

For a little taste of chocolatey luxury, a Hotel Chocolat Velvetiser allows you to make the most indulgent, creamy and deliciously naughty hot chocolates at home. There are loads of different flavours of hot chocolate available to make, including milk chocolate, salted caramel, white chocolate and orange. Yummy!

9. A Batman toaster

Something that’s guaranteed to put a smile on the face of any fan of the Dark Knight, a Batman toaster lets your partner make perfect toast with the Batman logo right there on the bread – which means it’s even more perfect!

10. A pizza oven

There’s nothing quite as delicious and moreish as wood-fired pizza – the trouble is, you usually have to go out to a nice restaurant to get it. That is unless you have your own portable wood-fired pizza oven at home. It might take you a few goes, but once you’ve mastered it you’ll be cooking incredible authentic pizzas in no time, so it’s a great option for your pizza-loving partner.

5 affordable gifts for a 4th wedding anniversary

If you’re looking to give your partner a gift in line with the traditional or modern themes and you don’t want to spend much (and avoid giving them a bag of apples) there are still plenty of options. So, here are five 4th anniversary gifts you can give that have plenty of symbolism and thoughtfulness behind them even if you have a small budget.

1. A fruit keyring

Who said your fruity gift has to be real? A fruit keyring can come in a whole host of different styles and shapes, so you can give your partner a funny token on-theme gift while not breaking the bank.

2. A fruity breakfast in bed

Breakfast in bed is always a very welcome surprise, but there’s no better time than on your anniversary. You could sneak out to the local shop and pick up some fresh fruit and pastries, then lay them all out on a sharing board to present to your other half for a loving start to the day.

3. A rose in a bottle

Flowers are the ultimate symbol of love but have a double meaning on your 4th anniversary as they’re one of the traditional gifts. So, you could give your partner a rose that will never wilt, hidden in a tiny bottle and personalised with a custom label. It’s adorable, affordable and unforgettable. Check it out at Not on the High Street.

4. A little bouquet of chocolates

Some people love flowers, some people love chocolates and lots of people love both. And for those people, a box of bouquet chocolates could be just the thing you’re looking for as a brilliant and affordable anniversary gift.

5. Bath flowers

For the ultimate romantic night in, you could run the bath for your partner and fill it with scented soap flowers to make the water smell beautifully floral. And why not join them so the bathroom gets all steamy?

5 DIY gifts for a 4th wedding anniversary

Making your own gift to give to your partner for your fourth anniversary can be a lot of fun, and it’s something anyone can do regardless of whether you’ve made anything before. Here are five touching DIY anniversary gifts for celebrating four years.

1. Chocolate-covered strawberries

All you need is a punnet of fresh strawberries and a bar of your partner’s favourite chocolate to make the most indulgent and romantic treats there are. Just melt down some chocolate using a bain marie or in the microwave (taking extra care not to burn it) then dip the strawberries in them and leave them somewhere cool to set. They’re quick and easy treats that are dead simple to make and hit all the right spots on anniversary night.

2. A flower press kit

Pressed flowers are fabulous little keepsakes that are simple to make and take very little effort. You also don’t need any fancy tools to do them, but a flower press kit can walk you through it.

3. Paper sunflowers

Sunflowers are big and beautiful flowers that represent summer and sunshine. They’re also pretty easy to make out of paper so you can create your very own paper sunflower bouquet. There are paper sunflower video tutorials available to help get you started.

4. A wildflower bouquet

British wildflowers are absolutely stunning, and during the spring and summer months they’re found in abundance in fields, parks and woodland. It’s also a perfectly fine thing to do unless you remove the roots, so just make sure you do it carefully. If you do, you can put together a one-of-a-kind wildflower bouquet that’s extra special because you made it. Wildflower Favours has a handy wildflower bouquet guide so you can make something truly beautiful.

5. Homemade fruit jam

While you can of course buy jam, nothing quite beats sweet and sticky homemade jam – especially if you’ve made it yourself. And usually, it only needs a few ingredients, so it’s relatively quick and easy. Just find a yummy jam recipe, grab an empty jar and your favourite fruit, and make something full of love.

5 experience or activity gifts for a 4th wedding anniversary

On their anniversary, many couples choose to spend the day in each other’s company doing things they enjoy and having fun. That’s why an activity or experience gift is a great option for an anniversary. So, here are five experience gifts that tie into a 4th wedding anniversary.

1. A flower-arranging experience

Instead of simply giving your partner a bouquet of flowers on your anniversary, why not give them an experience so the two of you can arrange flowers together? A flower-arranging experience is fun and rewarding and is a unique way to spend time on your anniversary. You can take home your bouquet when you’re done, and some provide a glass of fizz and snacks to enjoy along the way. Check out Buy a Gift to find a flower-arranging experience close to you.

2. Visit some historic gardens

Where do flowers often grow? In gardens, of course! And up and down the UK there are incredible gardens that are accessible to the public. If your anniversary is in the spring or summer, it’s a great time to visit and see the whole place in bloom, like at Woburn Abbey and Gardens. Or, you could visit the world-famous Kew Gardens which is home to more than 50,000 plant species.

3. Pick your own fruit

Towards the end of summer, farms around the country offer visitors the opportunity to pick their own fruit. It’s a charming way to spend a morning or afternoon, and it’s usually reasonably priced too. Take a look online to see which farms close to you offer fruit picking and do something different on your anniversary.

4. Take a trip to the Eden Project

The Eden Project in Cornwall is a way to experience international biomes, from tropical rainforests to the Med, and see how plants and flowers flourish around the world. Cornwall might be a fair trek for you, but you could make it an excuse to spend your anniversary away.

5. A jam-making masterclass with the Preservation Society

We’ve already suggested making jam as a DIY anniversary gift, but you could take this to the next level by taking part in a jam-making course thanks to the Preservation Society. What better way to learn how to make jam than by actual jam experts?

10 4th anniversary gifts that contain topaz

The 4th anniversary gemstone is topaz – specifically blue topaz – which is a lovely shimmering shade of blue that looks absolutely incredible set in all different kinds of jewellery. So, here are 10 ideas for wonderful jewellery you could give to your other half to mark four fabulous years together.

A necklace
A bracelet
Earrings
Cufflinks
A ring
A broach
A locket
An anklet
A nose stud
Belly button ring

You’ll find topaz used in a lot of different jewellery, both from independent jewellers and big-name high street brands. We also work with a range of wedding jewellers who can help you find exactly what you’re looking for.

5 floral-inspired gifts for a 4th wedding anniversary

Flowers might be one of the traditional 4th anniversary gifts, but just like every other anniversary, there’s also a traditional flower – the hydrangea. If you want to give your other half something inspired by this flower (and who could blame you because they’re stunning), here are five ideas you could consider.

1. A bouquet of hydrangeas

Hydrangeas are like explosions of vivid colour, with big blooms that are surprisingly hardy. They’re wonderful additions to a bouquet, but work just as well when they’re the star of the show. You really can’t go wrong with a bouquet of hydrangeas.

2. A hydrangea-scented candle

Hydrangeas have an alluring sweet, almost dessert-like smell to them, which is one of the reasons why bees love them so much! It also means it’s the perfect scent to fill your home with, so a hydrangea-scented candle makes for an on-point anniversary gift.

3. A hydrangea scarf

Because hydrangeas flourish in millions of gardens up and down the UK, they’re possibly one of the most recognisable flowers out there. If your partner loves the look and feel of this garden icon, then they might love a hydrangea scarf to keep warm during the winter months.

4. Hydrangea bulbs

As we’ve already mentioned, hydrangeas are a great flower to grow in the UK, which makes them a brilliant plant for budding (get it?) horticulturalists. And hydrangeas come in loads of different colours, so you’ll easily find one your partner will love. If you plant them in the spring or autumn they’ll flower around mid to late summer. Check out your local garden centre or browse the huge selection of hydrangeas at J Parker’s.

5. A hydrangea pin badge

Another lovely way to honour the humble hydrangea is with a hydrangea enamel pin, which is a subtle and affordable way for you to give your partner a floral-inspired anniversary present.

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Here at Bridebook, we know a thing or two about weddings, and our expert guidance and top-in-class tools have helped more than 2 million couples tie the knot. Since then, more and more of those happy couples celebrate four years of marriage every day that passes.

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3rd Wedding Anniversary Gifts: 50 Anniversary Gift Ideas

Three years might not sound like much, but the fact that you’ve made it to your third wedding anniversary is incredible. All the trials and tribulations you’ve been through, and you still love each other more than ever. We think that definitely means you should treat each other if you can.

But what should you give your partner to mark your 3rd anniversary? Chances are you’ve thought about one or two things you might like to give them, but did you know there are traditional and modern gifts that many people like to give and have done for over 100 years? There’s also a traditional gemstone and flower, so if your thoughts revolve around flowers and jewellery, you might want to include the traditions there to give your gift a little more symbolic meaning.

In this guide, we’re going to explore all the gift-giving traditions and the meanings behind them when it comes to celebrating your 3rd anniversary. That way you’ll have all the information you need to make the best choice for you and your partner to make your anniversary extra special.

For more information about the different gift-giving traditions associated with anniversaries from 1 through to 90 years, read our complete year-by-year wedding anniversary gift guide.

What are traditional and modern gifts for a 3rd wedding anniversary?

The traditional and modern 3rd wedding anniversary gifts

Ever since they were made official in the early 1900s (not that you have to stick to them by any means), lots of couples have had fun giving their partners traditional or modern anniversary gifts, as well as gifts linked to the traditional gemstone or flower.

Traditional 3rd anniversary gift – Leather

Leather is a really durable, hardy and flexible material that can withstand almost anything – which is also true of your marriage as you celebrate three years together. In fact, a leather shoe was found that was over 5,500 years old. Your marriage probably won’t last that long, but we bet it could! Leather represents strength and resilience – and for those looking for an alternative, vegan or faux leather is also just as strong and still absolutely on-theme.

Modern 3rd anniversary gift – Glass or crystal

The exact opposite of leather, glass or crystal is very delicate and fragile. This is also true of marriage, because if you don’t look after it then there’s a risk it could break. But, the fact that you’ve got to three years is evidence of how you look after your relationship. And a glass or crystal gift is a lovely way to show that.

3rd anniversary gemstone – Pearl

Pearls are incredible iridescent stones that come from saltwater and freshwater mollusks. They represent purity and beauty, and what’s more beautiful than you celebrating three years as a married couple? You can also get vegan-friendly pearls, so there’s plenty of choice for everyone if you’re looking to give your partner pearl jewellery.

3rd anniversary flower – Sunflower

The sunflower is one of the most recognisable flowers in the world with its huge open head packed full of nutritious seeds. It’s one of the symbols of summer, and represents happiness and long life – so could there really be a more appropriate flower for celebrating your anniversary?

How do you choose a gift for a 3rd wedding anniversary?

No one else in this world knows your other half quite as well as you do, and you might already have a few ideas about what you want to give them to mark your third anniversary. But, before you dive in and start adding things to your shopping basket, there are a few things to think about to make sure you choose the perfect pressie.

Do you or don’t you follow the ‘rules’? Traditional and modern gifts don’t suit everyone’s tastes, so decide whether it’s something you want to include in your celebrations.
Have you established your budget? When it comes to gift giving, it’s easy to get carried away, so make sure you set your budget and don’t be tempted to sway from it.
Are you looking for a super personalised gift? Personalised gifts are thoughtful and unique and make for something extra special.
Have you considered your partner’s tastes? You might want to give your partner something leather- or glass-related, but would they love something else more?

If you’re looking for a gift for a friend or family member who’s celebrating their third anniversary, you’re also free to be as involved in the rules as you like. Joining in by giving them a traditional or modern gift can be a lot of fun and shows that you’ve put a lot of thought into it.

50 ideas for a 3rd wedding anniversary gift

If you’re excited to give your partner a symbolic and thoughtful gift to mark your 3rd anniversary but don’t know where to start, we’ve put together this helpful list featuring 50 ideas to get your started.

10 traditional gifts for a 3rd wedding anniversary

The traditional anniversary gift for three years is leather, and thankfully there are plenty of options when it comes to choosing a brilliant and thoughtful present. So, here are 10 leather anniversary presents, which include a mix of cow leather and vegan leather options.

1. A personalised leather keyring

If you’re not sure your partner would love a leather gift but you’re keen to give them something traditional and symbolic, a personalised leather keyring is a cute way to give them something that’s totally on theme. It’s something your partner can carry with them wherever they go, and if you order one through Pedal and Brass you can personalise it, too.

2. A leather wallet or purse

Wallets and purses go through a lot of wear and tear, being pulled in and out of pockets and bags at least a couple of times a day. That’s why nothing beats a high-quality wallet or purse, and it’s something your partner will love and get a lot of use out of. There are great leather wallets available at Wallet King and a huge selection of purses at Lakeland Leather.

3. A leather photo album

Physical photo albums have fallen out of fashion over the last decade or so, and it’s about time that changed – there’s nothing quite as lovely as cracking out old photos to look back on and reminisce. A leather photo album, like those at Noble Macmillan, are great for storing those precious photographs. Or, for something a little different, a leather scrapbook gives you a place to personalise your memories and add a little character.

4. A leather laptop bag

If your partner spends hours of their day glued to their laptop for work, you’ll know just how precious it is to them. You could incorporate that into your choice of gift, by giving them a smart leather laptop bag. Knomo has a great range of extra special leather laptop bags to keep your other half’s work safe and secure.

5. Personalised leather coasters

You can never have too many coasters at home, and personalised leather coasters are stylish, durable and totally fit the theme of a traditional 3rd anniversary gift. Leather coasters from Your Surprise allow you to choose from various options and personalise them with a custom message.

6. A vegan leather notebook

Your partner might write a lot of notes, maybe for work or if they study. Or they could write a journal or like to keep paper close by to write things down. If this is anything like your partner, a vegan leather notebook would be a perfect gift.

7. A watch with faux leather strap

A watch is never a bad idea for a gift, with so many amazing options available to fit all budgets, tastes and styles. And thankfully, there are also loads of different watch strap materials out there too, including faux leather. This trendy faux leather strapped watch from Zazzle ticks a whole lot of boxes associated with the perfect 3rd anniversary gift.

8. A vegan leather jewellery box

Everyone with more than just a couple of items of jewellery knows just how tricky it can be to keep everything safe. If this sounds like your partner, a vegan leather jewellery box will do just the trick – not too expensive, on theme and super useful!

9. A faux leather e-reader case

Kindles and other e-readers are a prized possession for any bookworm. Yes, there’s nothing quite like the smell of a real book, but e-readers are so handy and versatile. Keep your partner’s e-reader in tip-top condition with a vegan leather e-reader case.

10. A vegan leather bookmark

Continuing with the bookish theme, if your other half really does love getting stuck into a physical book, a personalised vegan leather bookmark will make sure they never lose their place. And whenever they sneak in a quick chapter, they’ll always be reminded of your third anniversary.

10 modern gifts for a 3rd wedding anniversary

If you’re not sold on the idea of giving your partner a traditional leather gift, you could choose the modern option, which is glass or crystal. Here are 10 ideas to get you started and hopefully make your decision crystal clear.

1. A Swarovski crystal cherry blossom

Swarovski is one of the biggest and most well-known makers of crystals and other luxury fashion accessories, so spoiling your partner with a gift from Swarovski makes a huge statement. And thankfully, not all Swarovski gifts break the bank, like the Garden Tales Cherry Blossom, a minimalist pink flower with 230 facets to ensure real sparkle.

2. An engraved crystal heart

A lovely and hugely personal crystal gift that looks brilliant on a mantlepiece, shelf or inside a display cabinet is an engraved crystal heart, like the ones produced by 3D Crystal. All you do is send them your favourite wedding snap and they’ll recreate it inside a crystal heart. And when combined with a light base, it really makes for a fabulously personal gift.

3. A Royal Scot crystal vase

Royal Scot is an internationally renowned producer of fine, handmade crystal. Give your partner a real treat on your third anniversary with a vase that you could even give to them with flowers already in them. Then, every time they get flowers they’ll always be reminded of your symbolic gift. Check out the Royal Scot website to browse their selection of vases.

4. A Fortnum and Mason teapot

When many hear the name Fortnum and Mason, they know it’s a name associated with luxury and class. That’s why a Fortnum and Mason glass teapot makes for a brilliant gift for any tea-loving partner. It elevates the average brew and makes every tea time that little bit more special.

5. Royal Doulton Champagne flutes

Royal Doulton has been making ceramics and other luxury items for over 200 years, and they also happen to produce some incredible glassware. And as you’re celebrating three years together with the love of your life, that’s definitely a great excuse to crack out some fizz – and Royal Doulton Champagne flutes are some of the best ways to enjoy it.

6. An engraved whisky glass

If fizz isn’t really your other half’s thing and they prefer a warming glass of whisky instead, an engraved whisky glass will always go down well (as well as the drinks they’ll have from it). The Engravers Guild of London can add unique personalisations to make your gift stand out.

7. Glass on Blu-ray

Glass and crystal won’t suit everyone’s interest, so why not think a little creatively, and give your partner a copy of the movie Glass on Blu-ray. Glass is the sequel to both Split and Unbreakable, so you could have a thrilling movie night in while making sure your gift is still totally on theme. You can pick up the Blu-ray at Amazon if you’re going old-school, or find it on your favourite streaming service.

8. A Saturn crystal light

Give your partner a tiny piece of the galaxy with a Saturn crystal light. The base features a rechargeable battery that lasts up to 16 hours, making it a lovely night light for every space geek out there.

9. A bottle of their favourite tipple

If you really are struggling for ideas for a glass anniversary gift, you could just pick them up a bottle of their favourite tipple. Brandy, gin, vodka, wine, prosecco, ale… so long as it’s in a glass bottle it definitely counts. And if your partner isn’t a big drinker, you can also pick up specialty fizzy pops, or even good ol’ Coca-Cola, which always tastes better when it’s in a glass bottle.

10. A glass paperweight

Paperweights are a smart addition to a desk, even if we’re now in an age where we don’t use as much paper, so paperweights aren’t particularly needed. But thankfully, they’re still lovely ornaments – especially a Royal Scot engraved hare paperweight. That’s just one of many designs that you could choose from, with the options out there being practically endless.

5 affordable gifts for a 3rd wedding anniversary

Both leather and crystal can be a rather pricey gift to give your partner, which can make it tough to stick to the traditions if you have a limited budget. But, if you look in the right places, you can pick up a gift that’s on theme but doesn’t cost too much, so you can still get your other half a gift full of charm and meaning.

1. A glass pocket hug token

A glass pocket hug token tells your partner that you’re always thinking about them. It features hugs, hearts and is made of glass – and it’s super affordable! It’s the perfect token gift to mark your 3rd wedding anniversary.

2. A glass tealight holder

Tealights light a room with a warm dancing glow, which can only be made better with a lovely tealight holder. Dunelm has an affordable glass lotus tealight holder that ensures even more sparkle than a tealight alone.

3. A Dartington crystal gin glass

If your other half is partial to the odd gin, a lovely Dartington crystal gin glass is definitely on theme. It’s the perfect excuse to enjoy a drink to celebrate your big day!

4. A leather cable organiser

We all hate it when cables get the better of us and slither around on top of and underneath desks. If you only want a token gift that fits with the third anniversary theme, a leather cable organiser will suit you to a tee.

5. A leather luggage tag

Bring a little touch of luxury to your partner’s luggage with a leather travel luggage tag from the Leather Company. It’s genuine leather that just so happens to be affordable and really useful, so what’s not to love?

5 DIY gifts for a 3rd wedding anniversary

DIY gifts are fun to make, thoughtful and full of heart. You might assume that making a gift using glass or leather might be difficult and time-consuming, or require skills and tools you might not have. But that’s not always the case, so here are 5 DIY 3rd anniversary gift ideas so you can give your partner a brilliant handmade surprise.

1. Leather wallet

Believe it or not, it’s totally possible to make a wallet yourself without the need for specialist leather-making tools. Making a wallet yourself out of leather is also a fun challenge and means your partner will get a completely one-of-a-kind gift. If you fancy taking on the challenge, there are leather wallet-making video tutorials that walk you through the process.

2. A leather knot bracelet

If you have a few offcuts of leather (and if you don’t they’re cheap to buy online) making a knot bracelet is surprisingly simple. It also means you can give your partner a touching gift that they can wear for many years to come. There are plenty of leather knot bracelet video tutorials available and you don’t need any expertise to give it a go.

3. A glass bracelet

If you’re not sure your partner would love a leather bracelet, how about a glass bracelet instead? Or even a necklace or anklet? You don’t need to be an expert to give jewellery-making a go, and there are glass bracelet-making kits that provide you with everything you need to make your partner something they’ll love.

4. Homemade stained glass

Stained glass looks fabulous whether it’s window, glass, ornament or something else entirely. And you can even have a go at making your own stained glass with a stained glass craft kit, which you can use to elevate an ordinary drinking glass or dish and turn it into something special.

5. A homemade jar of jam or chutney

A mason jar can cost just a few pounds to pick up, which you can then fill with any sort of homemade jam or chutney you can think of. Raspberry, strawberry, fig, plum, pickle, piccalilly, peanut butter… the possibilities are endless. And whatever you create will taste so much more delicious because it’ll be made from the heart.

5 experience or activity gifts for a 3rd wedding anniversary

Your anniversary is all about the two of you, and what better way to celebrate than by doing something fun together? Leather and glass might not seem like they lend themselves particularly well to a fun experience, but with a little creative thinking, there are plenty you could get up to together. So, here are five ideas to help get you started.

1. A leather-making workshop

There’s nothing quite as satisfying as making something yourself and having something you’re proud of. So why not tie this into your third anniversary theme and spend time with your other half taking part in a leather-making workshop? You’ll get to find out all about centuries-old techniques and have a lot of fun in the process. There are leather-making courses and workshops available up and down the UK.

2. A glassblowing experience

If you’re not sold on the idea of making something out of leather, you could always make something out of glass! Glassblowing is another skill that goes back thousands of years, and a glassblowing experience gives you the opportunity to try it out for yourself and make something you can hold onto forever.

3. A whisky-tasting experience

Okay, so whisky tasting might come out of a barrel, but where is it poured? Into a glass of course! If your partner has a pallet for fine whiskies, then there’s no better way to spoil them than with a whisky-tasting experience. Another alternative would be a wine tasting experience, which would be equally as fun.

4. A glass factory experience

Dartington is one of the biggest glass manufacturers in the UK, and has a solid reputation as being the best. They also just so happen to offer factory tours, as well as glass painting, demonstrations and hand casting – a great experience linked really closely to the modern third anniversary gift. Check out the Visit Dartington website for more information.

5. Line dancing classes

This one might be a bit of a stretch, but it’s a brilliant way to spend time together on your third anniversary for two reasons: one, it’s line dancing which is a hell of a lot of fun, and two, cowboys wear leather so it totally counts! There are loads of local line dancing classes and clubs, so see if there’s one close to you for something really different!

10 3rd anniversary gifts that contain pearl

The third anniversary gemstone is pearl, a wonderful iridescent stone that comes from mollusks. There are also vegan alternatives so everyone gets to enjoy the beauty of this amazing stone. It’s a versatile stone used in all types of jewellery and accessories, so whatever your partner wears you’re bound to find something they’ll love. Here are 10 ideas for jewellery and accessories that can be set with pearl.

A necklace
A bracelet
Earrings
Cufflinks
A ring
A broach
A locket
An anklet
A nose stud
Belly button ring

Loads of big-name and independent jewellers have a whole selection of jewellery that contains pearl, and there are even some retailers that specialise in it. You might also want to browse the range of wedding jewellers we work with, as many have a huge amount of choice.

5 floral gifts for a 3rd wedding anniversary

The traditional flower for celebrating your third anniversary is the magnificent sunflower, one of the most recognisable flowers there is and the symbol of summer. Here are five sunflowery anniversary gift ideas to mark this wonderful occasion.

1. A bouquet of sunflowers

Sunflowers are bright and cheerful flowers that last a fairly long time if you look after them properly, and they look great either as the only flower in a bouquet or as part of a larger arrangement. They’re in abundance during the summer months, but florists have sunflower bouquets and arrangements year-round.

2. Sunflower seeds

One of the best things about sunflowers is just how easy they are to grow at home. All you need is a small patch of soil or a pot and access to sunlight, and then just let it do its thing. Sunflowers grow really fast, so if you plant them in April or May you should have huge yellow flowers by the middle of summer. You can pick up a packet of sunflower seeds for around a couple of pounds at your local garden centre.

3. LEGO sunflowers

Real flowers might not be your partner’s thing, or maybe they have an allergy or you don’t have the space. Thankfully, LEGO has a solution, with a set that allows you to build your own LEGO sunflowers. You can spend time building them together and then display them in a vase – and the best thing is they’ll never wilt!

4. A sunflower suncatcher

For something small and floral that brilliantly catches the essence of summery sunflowers, a sunflower suncatcher is a small but perfectly on-theme gift.

5. A sunflower necklace

If your partner loves sunflowers, then they’ll adore a sterling silver sunflower necklace with round cut topaz. It’s dainty and beautiful and the sort of necklace your partner can wear for any occasion.

Plan your dream wedding with Bridebook

At Bridebook, we’re proud to have helped more than 2 million couples in the UK and beyond come together to plan the wedding of their dreams. Every day, more and more of those couples go on to celebrate their 3-year wedding anniversary.

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Venue Showcase: The Magic of Glazebrook House Hotel

We’re shining a light on Glazebrook House Hotel, a place where time stands still, wedding dreams come to life, and magical memories are made. If you’re an engaged couple in search of a stunning, luxurious and intimate venue nestled on the edge of Dartmoor, Glazebrook House Hotel will be the perfect setting for your special day. In this exclusive showcase, we’ll explore the enchanting features of the venue, with insights from the owner and managing director, Pieter Hamman. Read on to discover the magic for yourself.

Highlights of the venue

Photo © Glazebrook House Hotel | See their Bridebook profile

Glazebrook House Hotel offers a secluded haven with private grounds, making it an ideal choice for couples seeking a more exclusive and romantic atmosphere. The venue boasts a range of features that cater to various different wedding styles, ensuring a truly personalised and unforgettable experience.

Owner Pieter Hamman sums up Glazebrook House Hotel’s stand-out features as follows: “Unique interiors, beautiful gardens, and a magical atmosphere make Glazebrook House Hotel the perfect choice for couples seeking an unforgettable wedding experience.” Through the collaboration of their creative team and striking interior designs by Timothy Oulton, Glazebrook prides itself on its enchanting atmosphere with stunning British revival décor, alongside its sumptuous handmade furnishings, beguiling vintage and retro curios, uniquely inspired by Alice in Wonderland.

Glazebrook are also proud award winners, most notably:

Condé Naste Johannsen 2016 – Best boutique hotel in the UK and Ireland
Visit England 2018 Gold – Best small hotel in England
South Devon Herald 2018 – Best hotel and overall winner of Outstanding Tourism Business Award

This outstanding venue isn’t just award-winning, but also LGBTQIA+ and multi-faith friendly, and caters to Kosher, Halal and Asian catering.

Ceremony and reception options

Glazebrook House Hotel is licensed to hold civil ceremonies and accommodates up to 140 guests. With various gorgeous areas to choose from, including the grand staircase, the beautiful dining hall, and the enchanted gardens, couples have the flexibility to tailor their ceremony to their unique vision.

Catering and dining experience

The dining hall seats up to 80 guests for the wedding breakfast, and the venue can cater for up to 140 guests for the reception and party. Glazebrook offers a partnership with a top-notch events catering company, ensuring the very best in food and drink. You can opt for bespoke menus or choose from a selection of locally sourced, seasonal options.

Accommodation and natural surroundings

With eight gorgeous bedrooms, including a bride and groom suite, Glazebrook can comfortably accommodate up to 20 guests. The beautifully styled rooms and landscaped gardens provide a perfect backdrop for photos and intimate moments with friends and family alike.

Bespoke wedding planning services

Glazebrook goes beyond just providing a wedding venue. With full wedding planning and on-the-day coordination services, you can relax and enjoy your special day while the dedicated team ensures everything runs seamlessly.

Meet the venue’s owners

Owners Pieter and Fran Hamman originally came into the wedding industry through hotel ownership and a love of helping make people happy. Pieter shares his very best expert advice for couples planning their wedding: “Plan, plan, and more planning to make sure you get exactly what you want.”

Pieter also shares his two most memorable weddings: “Both a Narnia themed wedding complete with characters and decorations and an Alice in Wonderland themed wedding complete with fancy dress and fun surprises!” As you can see, Glazebrook provides the ideal setting for unique themed weddings that are personal to you and as alternative as you like!

Secure your booking today

If you’re dreaming of a unique wedding surrounded by beauty, luxury and unparalleled service, Glazebrook House Hotel is the place where your magical memories will begin. Glazebrook’s coordinator, Hannah Roberts, will guide you on a tour through the house and discuss your wedding plans in more detail, before answering any questions you might have and creating a personalised wedding proposal and quote for you. View their profile and enquire today to make your wedding dreams reality. What are you waiting for?

Happy Planning!

What to Wear to a Wedding as a Guest? Dos, Don’ts and Top Tips

You’ve been invited to a wedding! Yay, free cake!

…But wait. What are you going to wear?

For as long as there have been weddings, there have been wedding guests struggling to know what to wear. Do you go traditional, simple, or show-stopping? Should you match your partner or go for complementary colours? And what’s the deal with hats? It’s enough to make anyone consider ‘losing’ their RSVP.

But, don’t worry — we’re here to help. From decoding wedding dress codes to navigating the fine line between fashionable and flashy, we’ll help you curate a look that not only complements the celebration but also shows off your personal style. Read on to learn the best colour to wear to a wedding, a breakdown of popular dress codes, and some top tips on wedding guest dressing. Happy styling!

What should I wear to a wedding as a guest?

Photo © Shauna Rolfe Photography | See their Bridebook profile

The most important thing about wedding outfits for guests is that they don’t upstage the bride and groom. That means no ball gowns, no top hats*, and definitely no white.

The key is to find that sweet spot between expressing your style and adhering to the dress code set by the couple. You’ll also need to consider the weather and the location of the wedding. For example, a beach wedding in the summer will call for completely different attire from an autumnal forest wedding.

As a rule of thumb, you can’t go wrong with semi-formal. That means a knee-length cocktail dress, a tailored suit, or a chic jumpsuit.

*Top hats are a standard part of white-tie dress codes. However, white tie is rarely used. As a general rule, no top hats unless explicitly stated on the invitation.

What sort of wedding guest outfits are there?

What to Wear to a Wedding As a Guest Dos, Don’ts and Top Tips — What to wear to a wedding as a guest: inspiration for all seasons

Winter wedding guest outfit

Winter wedding guests face the delightful challenge of balancing style with the practicality of staying warm. As the temperatures drop, it’s an opportunity to embrace luxurious fabrics, rich colours, and cosy layers to create a standout ensemble.

Consider a long-sleeve cocktail dress in a jewel tone or something with a little bit of sparkle. If you aren’t a fan of dresses, you can’t go wrong with a well-tailored suit and a long coat that staves off the cold.

Close-toed shoes are always recommended, and you could try bringing a wrap or faux fur stole for both warmth and flair.

Summer wedding guest outfit

Summer weddings are all about being light and floaty. If you’re a fan of a dress, try a flowy chiffon number or a sundress in a cheerful print. Otherwise, try a light-coloured suit like pale blue or grey paired with a crisp, short-sleeved shirt. This strikes the perfect balance between formal and laid-back.

Loafers or dressy sandals are a great choice for footwear.

Plus-size wedding guest dresses

Plus-size guests will look fabulous in wrap or fit-and-flare style dresses. Don’t shy away from bold colours for a dramatic yet feminine look.

Slingback shoes are also a great option for those with wider feet as they provide comfort and style.

Mature ladies’ dresses for wedding guests

Mature ladies might want to opt for an a-line dress or even a tea-length gown for a sophisticated look. When selecting colours, consider timeless options like classic navy or sophisticated neutrals. These hues are not only elegant but also super versatile, allowing you to pair your dress with a range of accessories and outerwear for different seasons.

Petite wedding guest dresses

Empire waist dresses are a great choice for petite guests as they can make you look taller. You could also try a high-low hem which adds length where you need it, or try a suit tailored to your petite frame.

Maternity wedding guest dress

Maxi dresses are a great option for maternity wedding attire. The long, flowing silhouette provides ample room for your growing belly, allowing you to move with ease. If you’re not a dress kind of person, maternity jumpsuits are a modern and trendy choice.

Look for styles with an adjustable waist or a wrap design for flexibility, and make sure you can get in and out of it comfortably in a toilet cubicle. You may need a few practice runs before the big day!

What is the best colour to wear to a wedding?

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The best colour to wear to a wedding will depend on the season and the couple’s requests. For example:

Spring or summer wedding

Light or bright colours are perfect for a spring or summer wedding. Think pastels, mint green, coral, turquoise, or pink.

Autumn or winter wedding

Keep your tones dark or muted for an autumn or winter wedding. Think navy, burnt orange, purple, mauve, or dark green. Jewel tones are always trendy and can add an air of sophistication to your outfit.

Match the dress code

It’s become increasingly popular for the couple to specify what colours they’d like the guests to wear. For example, you might see:

“We’d like everyone to dress in pastel colours” for a whimsical wedding.
“Please could everyone wear different shades of blue” if someone has a specific colour scheme in mind.
“We’d appreciate it if everyone could dress in black” for an ultra-chic wedding.

Don’t wear white as a guest

Unless specifically stated on the invitation that the couple would like you to wear white — just don’t do it. Most people consider it disrespectful.

It’s best to steer clear of different shades of white too. That includes ivory, bone, cream, and other similar tones.

What if my dress has a white base but a pattern over the top?

White dresses with flowers, birds, or another pattern over the top might be acceptable if the dress is more than 60% pattern and the white base isn’t the predominant colour. If you’re certain you want to wear this dress, we’d recommend getting the bride’s approval first.

What is the dress code for a wedding?

Photo © Gene Weatherley Photography | See their Bridebook profile

You may see one of the following dress codes listed on your wedding invitation:

Black tie. Black tie usually means a tuxedo, elegant evening gown, or a cocktail dress.
Formal. A formal dress code will mean a suit, knee-length dress, or cocktail dress.
Beach formal. Try suit trousers with a button-down shirt and no tie, or a floaty maxi or midi-length dress.
Casual. Casual can mean many things. However, you can’t go wrong with suit trousers and a short-sleeve button-down shirt. You could also wear a sundress or a blouse and skirt.

If no dress code is listed, it’s best to dress semi-formal, which means a well-fitted suit or a pretty, knee-length dress.

What is the most popular dress code for a wedding?

Most people tend to opt for semi-formal. This keeps everyone looking smart while still allowing the guests to be comfortable.

Where to buy clothes for wedding guests

Photo © Si Robinson | See their Bridebook profile

Whether you’re bougie-on-a-budget or have a little more to spend, you’re sure to find beautiful options in these online shops.

Less than £50

Vinted

Vinted is a second-hand clothes-selling app where you can find beautiful dresses for as little as £1! You can search for specific brands, sizes, colours, materials, and more. Many clothes are brand new with tags, and those that aren’t are in great condition. Plus, buying second-hand clothes is way more sustainable than purchasing brand-new clothes.

Asos

Asos is the perfect shopping destination for wedding dresses. You can set a budget using the ‘price range’ filter, and even sort dresses from lowest to highest price. You can also filter for size, colour, length, brand, and body fit.

Zara

Zara has a mix of pricier and low-cost dresses. This European brand exudes sophistication with its unique contemporary style, and you can filter dresses by size, colour, and style. However, taller guests may struggle with the length of Zara’s dresses.

Quiz

Quiz is a beautiful option if you prefer traditionally feminine styles. Packed with flouncy and fluttery styles, Quiz offers great clothes for wedding guests at reasonable prices.

£50-100

Abercrombie & Fitch

Abercrombie & Fitch has a whole section of their website dedicated to helping you be the ‘Best Dressed Guest’. Their dresses are beautiful, high quality, and suit a wide range of body types with their petite, regular, and tall sizing.

John Lewis

The John Lewis department store stocks a range of beautiful brands; it’s the perfect destination if you’re not sure what you’re looking for. If you’re lucky enough to live near a John Lewis store, they offer a complimentary personal shopping service to help you find your dream wedding guest dress.

Next is another retailer that carries a range of brands. The website is easy to navigate, and you can easily filter by price, size, colour, and occasion.

Over £100

Ted Baker

Ted Baker is another store known for its ultra-feminine styles. Although they’re a little on the pricey side, they have regular sales, and the quality is second to none.

Karen Millen

Karen Millen is known for its high-quality and beautiful wedding guest dresses. You’ll never be outdone in a Karen Millen gown. Their wide range of dresses will suit many different body types and personal styles.

Monsoon

Monsoon has been a staple of wedding guest dress shopping for years. Renowned for its bohemian-inspired designs, this brand effortlessly captures the essence of romantic and whimsical fashion.

Top tips for wedding guest attire

Photo © S Howard Photography Ltd | See their Bridebook profile

Watch those shoes

We know they look fabulous, but wearing ultra-high heels or brand-new leather shoes on a wedding day is a recipe for disaster. Tall heels will tire your feet out and prevent you from dancing, and brand-new shoes are likely to rub and cause blisters.

Instead, opt for shoes you know you’ll be comfortable in. Try wearing a lower pair of heels that you can dance all night in or wearing an already broken-in pair of brogues.

If you’re adamant you want to wear high heels, consider bringing a lower heel to change into later on. Your feet will thank you in the morning.

Be mindful of culture

Weddings with a religious element may ask you to cover up before you enter the church, temple, or mosque. You generally need to have your knees and shoulders covered to enter a religious building, and may even be asked to remove your shoes or cover your hair. Although this may not be your preference, it’s important to respect the couple’s wishes.

Consider the weather

Check the weather on the morning of the wedding, and always have a backup outfit in mind. If there’s a chance of rain, consider bringing a foldable umbrella or a stylish raincoat that complements your outfit. For unexpected temperature changes, having a shawl or light jacket can make a significant difference.

If in doubt… double-check

If you’re not sure whether an outfit is in line with the couple’s requests — ask them.

It’s perfectly acceptable to reach out to the bride, groom, or someone close to them to clarify any questions you may have about the dress code. This not only ensures that you’re on the right track, but also demonstrates your consideration and respect for their wishes.

The bottom line on being the best dressed wedding guest

Photo © Damion Mower Photography | See their Bridebook profile

Picking the perfect wedding guest outfit can be stressful. Between the cost, dress code considerations, and endless style options, the task may seem daunting. However, with a bit of planning and time spent internet shopping, you’ll be the belle of the ball.

We recommend you closely adhere to the wedding dress code, dress for comfort and not just style, and double-check with the couple if you’re unsure. Happy shopping!

FAQs

Photo © Schmittat Photo&Video | See their Bridebook profile

Do you have to wear heels to a wedding as a guest?

No, you don’t have to. The most important thing is that you’re comfortable.

While high heels add an air of elegance to any outfit, they are by no means mandatory.

What should you not wear as a wedding guest?

You shouldn’t wear T-shirts, vest tops, football shirts, jeans, dirty trainers, flip flops, or other casual clothes to a wedding unless specifically asked to. This is the most special day of the bride and groom’s lives — make an effort for them!

Can anyone attend a wedding as a guest?

Anyone can attend a wedding ceremony in a registry office or religious building. However, you shouldn’t attend a reception you’re not invited to. It’s impolite.

Happy Planning!

The Ultimate Guide to Renewing Your Wedding Vows

True love, like a fine wine, only gets better with time, and what better way to savour its richness than by renewing your wedding vows?

Whether you’re celebrating a milestone anniversary, overcoming life’s challenges, or simply wanting to step forward together with a renewed sense of commitment, renewing your vows is a beautiful and symbolic way to reaffirm your love and recognise the journey you’ve shared with your partner.

If you’re not sure where to start, check out our ultimate guide to renewing your wedding vows. We discuss everything you need to know about marriage vow renewal. This includes the practicalities, what to wear, and how to go about planning your special day 2.0!

What is a vow renewal?

Renewing your wedding vows is a ceremony where already-married couples reaffirm their commitment to one another by reading vows. Think of it as a top-up to your wedding ceremony.

Couples can choose to re-read their original vows or come up with completely new vows. This is nice if it’s been a long time since your original wedding day or if you’ve overcome significant challenges together that you want to recognise.

Renewing your vows is the opportunity to reflect on the journey you’ve shared, celebrate the growth in your relationship, and express your enduring love for each other.

Why do couples renew their vows?

There are a number of reasons couples might choose to renew their vows. These include:

1) To celebrate a milestone

Couples might renew their vows to celebrate a special anniversary or milestone. For example, after 10, 25, or 40 years of marriage, or the birth of a child.

2) To celebrate overcoming challenges

Couples who have faced significant challenges in their relationship may want to renew their vows as a symbol that they’re moving past these challenges together. For example, illness, financial difficulties, or other obstacles.

3) Reaffirming commitment

Sometimes, the chaos of everyday life gets in the way, and couples can become distant. Vow renewal can act as a powerful reminder of the commitment they’ve made to one another and help reignite the spark between them.

4) To have the wedding of their dreams

Some people just can’t wait to get married. As a result, they may have tied the knot young and might not have been able to afford the wedding they always wanted. A vow renewal provides another opportunity for couples to plan and experience their dream wedding.

5) To include more family

Families grow and develop over time, and couples might choose to renew their vows to include those who couldn’t be there the first time around. For example, children, step-siblings or parents, or even a new brother or sister-in-law.

6) Just because

There’s no better reason to renew your vows than simply because you want to. Couples may choose to renew their vows as a celebration of the everyday moments, the laughter shared, and the small victories that sometimes go forgotten but contribute immensely to their shared journey.

When do couples renew their vows?

Photo © Selen Photography | See their Bridebook profile

The great thing about vow renewals is that there’s no set time or rules for when a couple can renew their vows. In fact, couples can choose to renew their vows as frequently as they’d like.

However, generally, couples don’t renew their vows until they’ve been married for a few years and have weathered the initial stages of marriage. This gives them the chance to deepen their connection, accumulate shared experiences, and navigate the ups and downs of marriage before renewing their commitment.

How much does it cost to renew your vows?

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The good news is that there’s no strict need to shell out for the ceremony itself. That’s because legally you aren’t obliged to hire an officiant when renewing your vows. But, if you fancy, you could invite a priest, rabbi, celebrant or even judge to add a sense of occasion to your ceremony. If you would prefer a more personal touch, having a friend or family member officiate is also a great option.

That said, you may have to pay to rent a space for the ceremony. This cost will depend entirely on how elaborate you want your vow renewal to be. For a simple ceremony in your local place of worship or town hall, you can expect to pay a modest fee only. However, something more elaborate in a boutique hotel or grand stately home will understandably come with a higher price tag.

Just like with a wedding ceremony, there are lots of things you can do to keep the cost down if a full-blown celebration is what you’re after. Check out our wedding saving tips for how to save on everything from your venue to your florist.

What should you wear to a vow renewal

Photo © John Fox Wedding Photography | See their Bridebook profile

Good news — you can wear whatever you’d like to a vow renewal! However, if you’re looking for some guidelines, try following the below tips:

Things to know for spouses

- White isn’t a must. Don’t feel the need to wear white if you don’t want to. Instead, you should feel free to wear any colour that suits you, represents your relationship, or matches the theme of your ceremony. Pastels and neutrals are both popular options for vow renewals.
- Accessorise thoughtfully. Try incorporating aspects of your original wedding day into your vow renewal through thoughtful accessories. For example, sewing a small part of your veil inside your renewal outfit, wearing the same cufflinks, or even the same perfume or aftershave can all bring back memories of your special day.
- Dress for the weather. Nothing will ruin your special day 2.0 like not being prepared for wind or rain. Make sure your outfit is suitable for the predicted weather conditions, and keep a spare umbrella to hand (just in case!).

Things to know for guests

- Consider your footwear carefully. As great as they look, try not to wear heels that are too high or wear brand-new shoes. Both will cause you discomfort throughout the day and might distract you from fully enjoying the celebration.
- Check the dress code. The dress code should be listed on the invitation, so make sure you respect the wishes of the celebrants. If no dress code is listed, you can’t go wrong with semi-formal.
- Coordinate with your partner. Vow renewals are a great opportunity for a cute couple pic. To stand out (without overshadowing the married couple) consider matching your partner’s tie to your dress colour or wearing matching suits.

Where should you renew your vows?

Photo © Damien Vickers Photography | See their Bridebook profile

The good news is that you can renew your vows anywhere you like. Potential options include locations that are also popular wedding destinations.

A beach or seaside
A destination/overseas location
In your own home or garden
At a historical location
In a church, temple or mosque
In an art gallery
In the forest or a woodland

You’ll need to consider the cost, practicality, and size of each venue before making your decision. For example, planning a forest wedding when both you and your partner suffer from hay fever probably isn’t the best idea.

How to plan a vow renewal

Ready to start planning your vow renewal? How exciting! Try following these 7 steps to help you plan your perfect vow renewal ceremony.

1) Pick your date

First things first — you need to set the date. Consider meaningful dates such as your original wedding anniversary or a relationship milestone. Take into account factors like the season, weather, and any personal or cultural preferences. Once you have your date set, you can move on with the rest of your planning.

2) Choose your location

The next step is picking where you’ll hold your ceremony. This will act as the backdrop to your whole day, so choose a location that not only resonates with your love story but also sets the tone for your celebration. Whether it’s somewhere that’s sentimental to you, a formal affair, or even just your favourite beach — all that matters is that it’s special to you and your spouse.

3) Decide what you’re going to DIY

Not only does DIY’ing parts of your vow renewal ceremony help keep costs down, but it also adds a personal touch that makes your celebration uniquely yours.

Check out some of our posts on creating DIY elements for your wedding celebration, which you can apply to your vow renewal ceremony too:

4) Pick your vendors

Once you’ve decided what you’re doing yourself, it’s time to pick which vendors you’d like to work with. You’ll most likely want a photographer and a celebrant at the very least. However, you may also want a caterer, cake maker, florist, entertainment, stationery provider, or even a wedding coordinator, depending on how elaborate your celebration is.

5) Send your invitations

The next step is to send your invitations to your guests. You’ll need to include details like the date, time, location, and dress code. It’s also a good idea to include a run down of the day so attendees can dress accordingly. For example, will there be a sit-down meal or a cocktail hour, or will the ceremony be on the beach? These are all important details that your guests need to be made aware of.

6) Pick your outfit

The next step is to pick your outfit. As above, you can wear whatever you’d like to your vow renewal ceremony. Our recommendations are that you consider the weather and dress with the formality of the occasion in mind.

7) Optional: Buy your rings

Some couples like to upgrade their wedding band or engagement ring for a vow renewal. Alternatively, you might like to treat your spouse to an eternity ring to wear with their wedding and engagement rings. If you’re not ‘ring people’, you could try a watch, a nice bracelet, or even a necklace. Check out our post on 30 unique alternatives to engagement rings for a little more inspiration.

Examples of traditional vow renewal wording

Photo © Harry Richards Photography | See their Bridebook profile

When planning what to say in your wedding vow renewal ceremony and how to word your vows, you can take inspiration from your own original wedding vows, whether you repeat the same ones, or lightly adapt them. We’ve got dedicated articles on the above to help you get started:

Plan your vow renewal with Bridebook

Vow renewals are a beautiful way to reaffirm your love for your partner and celebrate the journey you’ve shared and continue to share. It’s a chance to reflect on the highs and lows and the laughter and tears, and to express your enduring commitment in a new or continued chapter of your love story.

So, whether you’re commemorating a significant milestone or simply embracing the joy of the present, vow renewals offer a unique opportunity to deepen your connection and rediscover the magic that brought you together.

However, trying to keep on top of everything can be tricky. If you’re struggling to stay organised, we’ve got all the tools and tips you might need to plan your big day 2.0 right here at Bridebook.

FAQs

Photo © Photos by Persephone | See their Bridebook profile

Do I need to be given away at a vow renewal?

No, you don’t have to be given away. However, it can be a nice gesture to express your feelings and show appreciation to a special person in your life. Plus, it’s always nice to have someone to hang on to as you walk down the aisle (again!).

Do I need a licence to renew my vows?

No, renewing your vows doesn’t typically require a licence. Since the ceremony doesn’t establish a new legal marital status, there’s no need for a specific licence. However, depending on where you’re holding your renewal, you may need a permit to hold an event at the location.

Do I need to wear a wedding dress to renew my vows?

No, you don’t have to wear a wedding dress to renew your vows. In fact, you can wear anything you want on your special day 2.0 We recommend that you dress appropriately for the weather and consider the formality of the occasion.

Happy Planning!

2nd Wedding Anniversary Gifts: 50 Anniversary Gift Ideas

Every anniversary you and your partner spend together is a cause for celebration. You may have celebrated your first wedding anniversary and done something extra special – it was your first anniversary of many, after all. But, your second anniversary is just as fabulous as the two of you continue to fall deeper in love and carve out your lives together. So, we think your second anniversary should be treated with just as much prestige as other momentous anniversaries!

When it comes to celebrating your second anniversary, you might have your eye on the perfect gift to give your other half. But, there are traditional and modern gifts you might want to give that are filled with symbolism and special meaning, along with a traditional flower and gemstone. That means, if you’d love to give your love an anniversary gift that has a little history behind it, you can. Or, you can give them that one thing you already have your eye on – there’s no right or wrong option.

If you’re looking for an extra special gift to give your partner to mark your second anniversary, but you’re not quite sure what to give them, you’ve come to the right place. In this guide, we’re going to explore the different gifts you could consider and what they represent, to take your gift-giving to the next level.

For more information about all the different anniversaries you and your partner will share and the gifts you can give them, read our complete year-by-year wedding anniversary gift guide.

What are traditional and modern gifts for a 2nd wedding anniversary?

The traditional and modern 2nd wedding anniversary gifts

Since the early 20th century, there have been traditional and modern gifts which many couples like to give each other to celebrate their 2nd anniversary. There’s also a traditional flower and gemstone that have wonderful meaning behind them.

Traditional 2nd anniversary gift – Cotton

Cotton is a natural fibre that grows in huge open fields. It’s a really delicate plant that can be carried away with a light breeze. But, once it’s been picked and processed this delicate plant becomes incredibly strong and durable – as strong and durable as your marriage. And it gives you a brilliant amount of creativity to come up with a unique present that your loved one will adore.

Modern 2nd anniversary gift – China

By today’s standards, china probably feels a little outdated. But, china is associated with quality and luxury. It’s also precious and fragile, so has to be looked after and maintained – a lot like a marriage. China is another gift that’s open to interpretation and gives you a chance to have fun with your gift-giving.

2nd anniversary gemstone – Garnet

Garnet is a lovely gemstone that’s frequently seen in deep shades of red, but can also come in orange, brown, green and even black. It symbolises trust and friendship, which is a beautiful way to encapsulate your relationship with your partner. Garnet isn’t always a first-choice stone for use in jewellery and accessories, but it’s very versatile, not to mention striking.

2nd anniversary flower – Lily of the valley

Lily of the valley is an incredibly dainty little flower that looks a lot like a cluster of tiny bells. They’re beautiful when grown outside, but also make for great bursts of green peppered with white as part of a bouquet. They symbolise purity and youth, which you and your other half no doubt have in spades!

It’s important to note that lily of the valley is toxic to cats and dogs, so if you have a furry friend at home then you should think of an alternative. Thankfully, we have plenty of suggestions for you below.

How do you choose a gift for a 2nd wedding anniversary?

You know your partner better than anyone, but you’ll only have one 2nd wedding anniversary, so how on earth are you supposed to choose the perfect gift? You could get them a few things, but then that’s likely to get expensive. Have a think about what your partner would really love which would stand out above other times you might give them gifts, like on their birthday or Christmas. Consider these points when choosing the ideal gift:

Should you follow anniversary traditions? The traditional and modern gifts aren’t set in stone, so make sure they fit with what you and your partner might be expecting.
Have you set your maximum budget? You might want to really spoil your partner, but you should set a budget and stick to it. This will likely influence what you can give them.
How personal do you want the gift to be? Something off-the-shelf can be fantastic, but personalisations elevate a gift and make them even more special.
What does your partner love? Cotton or china gifts might not be something your partner would appreciate, and if so is there something else they might prefer?

If you’re someone giving a 2nd anniversary gift to a friend or family member, you can also interpret these rules how you see fit. There’s nothing wrong with joining in on the traditions and giving someone something linked to cotton or china to help them celebrate their big day.

50 ideas for a 2nd wedding anniversary gift

If you want to give your partner a 2nd anniversary gift steeped in meaning, but have no idea where to start, we’ve put together a list of 50 ideas to help get you started. That way, you can find the perfect gift and show your love that you’re super romantic and thoughtful.

10 traditional gifts for a 2nd wedding anniversary

The traditional 2nd anniversary gift is cotton, so to give you a bit of inspiration here are 10 cotton-themed gifts you can give to your loved one.

1. Personalised cotton bath towels

Never argue about who’s using the wrong towel again, with personalised bath towels! Good towels are hard to come by, but cotton towels with your names embroidered on them are as soft as they are thoughtful. You can pick up some lovely towels in a wide variety of colours from Not on the High Street.

2. Personalised dressing gown

Is there anything more relaxing than spending the day in your dressing gown? And relaxing is what anniversaries are all about. A personalised dressing gown is completely on-board with the cotton theme, with the added bonus of being completely unique to them. There’s a lovely selection of robes at The Fine Cotton Company which can be personalised with an embroidered name.

3. Personalised love knot cushion

Keeping the personalisation theme going, a cushion is a nice subtle way to bring a bit of you to your home furnishings. A love knot cushion from Not on the High Street can be personalised to include your names and the date you got married, and is available in different sizes and colours.

4. Bedsheets from the hotel where you spent your first night together

Contact the hotel where you and your partner spent your first night together as a married couple and ask them where they get their bedsheets from. Then, you can see if you can get hold of the exact same sheets so you can have that honeymoon feeling every time you get in bed. They’ll probably be from a wholesaler, but with a bit of charm, you might be able to place a one-off order with them if you explain what you’re hoping to do.

5. Cotton flowers

For a subtle but beautiful cotton gift, a handmade cotton flower is something your partner can always keep to remind them of your anniversary. They’re delicate but stunning and will last a lifetime.

6. A comfy pair of socks

Socks might not be glamorous, but they’re comfortable and practical. A lot of decent socks also happen to be cotton, and there are tons of options out there. Check out Nordic Socks for some of the snuggliest socks you’ve ever seen.

7. Song lyrics cotton canvas

If you and your partner are into music, you could give them a cotton record that features their favourite song lyrics, or maybe even the lyrics from your first dance. Take a look at Blim and Blum to see how unique and cool they are.

8. A cotton bracelet

Cotton isn’t usually associated with jewellery, but it actually makes for a touching accessory that your partner is bound to love. Not only is it a gift from you on your anniversary, but it also has deep and poignant meaning. There are expert craftspeople on Etsy who produce lovely cotton bracelets.

9. Egyptian cotton candle

Candles are a surefire way to help build a romantic atmosphere on your anniversary, and why not do that with an on-theme Egyptian cotton-scented candle? Not only that, but the Egyptian cotton candles by Shearer Candles have a slight aroma of carnation, which calls back to your first anniversary flower last year.

10. A nice shirt

You really can’t go wrong by getting your partner a nice shirt that they can wear, either on an average day or to crack out on special occasions. And if you give it to them early in the day then they can always wear it in the evening if you decide to go out for a romantic meal or similar. Cotton Traders has loads of high-quality cotton shirts to choose from.

10 modern gifts for a 2nd wedding anniversary

If cotton’s not to your liking, the modern choice for a 2nd anniversary gift is china. Okay, perhaps china isn’t as modern as it was a hundred years ago, but it’s still a lovely gift that can be interpreted in lots of different ways. So, here are 10 china-themed gifts to give you some ideas.

1. A fancy china tea set

One of the most obvious china gifts you can give your partner is a fancy china tea set, especially if they enjoy a nice hot cuppa. There’s also a massive amount of choice available, from expensive bone china to sets that are a little (and a lot) more affordable. You can go quirky or posh or something for everyday use – the choice is yours.

2. A china rose

China is a hard gift to give someone, but you can surprise your partner with a little creative thinking. So, think outside the box and give your partner a handmade china rose, which is delicate and beautiful. And, if you get one through Not on the High Street, you can even personalise the petals with a message so your partner will always be reminded of your special day.

3. Some fine china

If your bowls and plates are in need of an upgrade, you could give your partner a lovely new set from a prestigious name, like Royal Copenhagen. China can be rather pricey, though, so it might not be a set you want to use every day – just for special occasions or whenever the mother-in-law pops around for tea.

4. A delicious Chinese meal

Remember, you’re free to interpret china however you like, so you could treat your other half to a delicious Chinese meal. Whether you spend the evening cooking a meal together, you snuggle under the duvet with a takeaway, or you get dolled up to visit a nice restaurant, just make sure you enjoy yourselves!

5. A delicate figurine

China can be used to create beautiful figurines which look amazing on a shelf or in a cabinet. These come in loads of of different styles from various artists and makers. You could choose something unique to your partner’s interests, or something that represents the love the two of you share. For example, The China Shop has a cute figurine that’s simply but appropriately named The Perfect Day.

6. Mr and Mrs mugs

You really can’t go wrong by giving your partner a mug. China mugs are delicate but feel special, and there are so many different options out there that you’ll be spoilt for choice. To keep things solely focused on you, you could even have them personalised, like a pair of espresso mugs from Susan Rose China.

7. An adorable trinket dish

Whether your partner needs somewhere to keep their keys, their rings and other jewellery, or little bits that usually go amiss right when they need them, a trinket dish is always useful to have around. And a trinket dish from Becky Broome can be personalised to make it extra special.

8. A snack box from China

Another one that stretches the rules, but it’s your anniversary so do whatever you think will make your partner happy! And we bet that a box full of tasty snacks from China will be a fun and unique way to enjoy some treats on your anniversary.

9. A tealight dome

Fill your home with a warming glow cast by a tealight dome. They make for elegant and sweet little decorative items with the bonus of looking beautiful, especially when the sun starts to go down. Check out Nantucket Gifts for a great (and affordable) selection of tealight domes.

10. A china clock

Another brilliant use for china is as the face of a clock, which is surprisingly affordable and can be decorated with simple but effective designs. Thanks to the simplicity it’ll also look good wherever you choose to hang it. Susan Rose China has plenty you can choose from.

5 affordable gifts for a 2nd wedding anniversary

If you’re looking to give your partner a gift on your 2nd anniversary but only have a small budget to play with, then that doesn’t mean you can’t get them something thoughtful and on-theme. Here are five affordable gifts you can give your love to mark your 2nd anniversary.

1. Cotton candy

Why not give a gift that totally fits with the traditional second anniversary theme but at the same time is totally unexpected and affordable? Cotton candy is tasty, sweet and a cute token gift that still has a ton of meaning behind it. Sweet shops like So Sweet Shop have a bunch of different cotton candy treats to choose from.

2. Plain socks

A decent pair of cotton socks don’t need to break the bank. They’re a handy little gift that will always be put to good use. A lot of high street retailers sell multipacks of socks for next to nothing for the perfect practical present.

3. Cute mouse decoration

Not all second anniversary ornaments have to be pricey. Rather than thinking china, why not think cotton instead, with a cute mouse sat on top of a cotton reel ornament? It’s adorable and fits the traditional theme, as well as being super affordable.

4. Moisture gloves

Okay, hear us out. Cotton moisture gloves might seem like a random gift, but it’s just the prelude to a larger gift you could give to your partner, in the form of a romantic pamper evening. Use them as part of a personal pamper party by spending the evening exfoliating, moisturising and relaxing in face masks.

5. Cotton bag

If you’re really not sure what to give your partner that fits with the traditional theme, why not pick up a cotton bag and fill it with goodies, like snacks, games and other treats? That way, you’re giving your partner something you know they’ll love while still including a little touch of tradition.

5 DIY gifts for a 2nd wedding anniversary

A DIY gift shows that you really care and put thought into your gift, because it takes a little more effort than popping to the shops or ordering something online (which is totally fine too!). But, you probably have a lot on so might struggle to find the time. Thankfully, not all DIY gifts have to take ages to make. So, here are five DIY 2nd anniversary gift ideas to get those creative juices flowing.

1. Grow your own cotton

You’ll have to start early for this one, but if you have a greenhouse or similar you can grow your own cotton plant here in the UK. Cotton seeds are very cheap, and given the right environment, can flourish. Then, right before your anniversary, you can pick them, arrange them in a vase and present them to your love.

2. Cotton bunting

Cotton is a brilliant material to make bunting from, whether from old t-shirts you don’t wear anymore or sheets you can pick up from a craft shop. But, the more personal you can make it the better, and it’ll look great hung up as you celebrate your big day. There are video tutorials on how to make bunting which can help you get started.

3. Cotton flowers

If you have some cotton wool, potpourri, thread and a glue gun, you have everything you need to make some super cute DIY cotton flowers! You don’t need any experience to make them, and your partner will love the effort you put into them. Check out this easy-to-follow video tutorial on how to make cotton flowers for instructions.

4. Some personalised embroidery

Embroidery is a really rewarding hobby because you can produce an unlimited number of incredible designs, so why not have a go at embroidering something that’s associated with something your partner loves? If you’re not sure where to start, you can pick up embroidery kits that include everything you need.

5. Cotton handkerchiefs

If you have some old cotton offcuts or a t-shirt you no longer wear, why not have a go at turning them into handkerchiefs? That way, your partner will have something lovingly handmade by you that’s already close to them, with the added bonus of being useful! Tiny Trash Can has simple instructions you can follow that don’t require any sewing.

5 experience or activity gifts for a 2nd wedding anniversary

One of the most exciting ways to spend your anniversary is taking part in an activity or experience. But what experiences can you do that tie into your 2nd anniversary? Here are five suggestions for cotton and china-related activities.

1. World of Wedgewood factory tour

Stoke-on-Trent is famous for its history of pottery making, and there are plenty of factories in the area that still operate today. And thankfully, some of them offer factory tours so you can see how they make such beautiful pottery and china. If you’re not far from Stoke-on-Trent, why not treat your partner to a tour, like at the world-famous Wedgewood factory, where they’ll teach you all about this fascinating industry?

2. A relaxing spa day

This one slightly bends the rules but it still counts, because you’ll most likely be sitting around relaxing all day while wearing comfy cotton dressing gowns! A spa day is a wonderful way to hang out with the love of your life, enjoy some tasty food and unwind. Champneys has a selection of spa day options at their locations across the UK.

3. A Scream movie night in

For an affordable and snuggly but perhaps scary night in, why not sit down to enjoy a Scream movie marathon with a takeaway? This one’s a bit of a stretch, but one of the characters (played by Liev Schreiber) is named Cotton, so we think it totally counts!

4. Sock creature kit

Couples who craft together, stay together. That’s not an official saying, but there’s no doubt that crafting is a cute way to spend time. And to link it to your second anniversary, Not on the High Street offers make-your-own sock animal kits.

5. Pottery painting

Continuing the craft theme, why not spend an afternoon painting pottery together? Places like Social Pottery won’t let you paint fine china, but you could have a go at painting anything from a money box to a garden ornament. They then fire it for you in a kiln and you can collect your masterpiece a few days later.

10 2nd anniversary gifts that contain garnet

Garnet is a gorgeous gemstone that’s usually a deep shade of red but can also come in a range of different colours. That means it’s super versatile and fits with loads of different types of jewellery, whether it’s classic silver, gold, platinum or anything else your partner might love. Here are 10 suggestions for jewellery you can consider that’s set with garnet:

Earrings
Cufflinks
A ring
A necklace
A broach
A locket
A bracelet
An anklet
A nose stud
Belly button ring

Plenty of high street jewellers will have a selection of jewellery pieces and accessories that are set with garnet, so next time you’re in town have a browse to see what they have. You can also check out the range of wedding jewellers we work with here at Bridebook, as they have lots of beautiful options.

5 floral gifts for a 2nd wedding anniversary

The traditional 2nd anniversary flower is lily of the valley, an incredibly delicate and dainty flower that symbolises purity and youth. Here are five ideas for second anniversary floral gifts closely linked to lily of the valley.

1. A lily of the valley bouquet

Nothing’s going to be quite as stunning as a lily of the valley bouquet, a really stunning arrangement with bold greens and pops of white. Just remember to find an alternative if you have pets at home as they can be toxic to cats and dogs.

2. Lily of the valley sculpture

For something a little more pet-friendly but still just as beautiful, a lily of the valley sculpture from David Shuttle is every bit as elegant as the real thing. And the best thing is it’ll never wilt so you’ll always have something to remember your anniversary by.

3. Lily of the valley gift and soap box

Lily of the valley has a delicate sweet scent that lends itself perfectly to soap and other body and soap products. So, a lily of the valley hand and body gift box smells amazing and is also a brilliant way to treat your partner on your anniversary.

4. Lily of the valley brooch

Lily of the valley is such an eye-catching flower that it deserves to be shown off as much as possible, and a lily of the valley brooch is the perfect way to do that. It captures the elegance of this plant brilliantly!

5. Lily of the valley night light

How about a floral gift that’s three in one… a crocheted lily of the valley nightlight in a pot! It’s eye-catching, unique and full of character, making it a great gift for your big day.

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Here at Bridebook we’re wedding experts, who have helped more than 2 million couples get married and go on to celebrate their second anniversary.

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1st Wedding Anniversary Gifts: 50 Anniversary Gift Ideas

At the end of your first year as a married couple, your wedding probably feels like a really long time ago, but also like it only just happened yesterday. What an amazing and magical time as you and the love of your life took the plunge to spend eternity together.

To mark such a momentous time in your marriage, you might want to give your partner a special gift. But what should you give your partner for your first wedding anniversary? Of course, you could give them whatever you or they want – there are no set rules you have to follow. But, if you’d like to give them a gift that symbolises something, there are traditional and modern anniversary gifts that many couples like to give.

So, if you’d like to give your partner a 1st anniversary gift with meaning and history, then we have all the information you’ll need below. We’ll let you know the traditional and modern gifts for a first anniversary, as well as the traditional gemstone and flower. That way, you’ll know the meaning behind them and why they make for such a thoughtful gift. We’ll also offer you plenty of ideas that fit the theme, so you can give your partner a wonderfully memorable gift to commemorate your first wedding anniversary.

For more information about what different wedding anniversary gifts you can give from 1 to 90 years, read our complete year-by-year wedding anniversary gift guide.

What are traditional and modern gifts for a 1st wedding anniversary?

The traditional and modern 1st wedding anniversary gifts

If you’re looking to give your partner a 1st anniversary gift with meaning or something that has special significance, you can give them a traditional or modern gift. Or, there’s always something that features the traditional gemstone or flower.

Traditional 1st anniversary gift – Paper

Paper might seem like a small and inexpensive gift (you still might be feeling the effects of paying off your wedding after all) but it symbolises new beginnings, which is just perfect. Paper can be used for such a wide variety of things and can be the start of amazing things – just like your marriage. It also offers you plenty of opportunities for creative gifts.

Modern 1st anniversary gift – Clocks

The modern gift for a first anniversary is a clock, which is something else that provides you with different possibilities, from a lovely wristwatch to a brand new smartwatch, or perhaps even an ornate grandfather clock to put in the hallway of your home. Clocks represent time and the eternal love you have for your partner.

1st anniversary gemstone – Gold

Okay, gold isn’t actually a gemstone, it’s a precious metal, but that preciousness is a status that describes your marriage to a tee. Gold is a luxurious gift, and fits with a wide range of gifts and jewellery.

1st anniversary flower – Carnation

Carnations are big, eye-catching flowers that come in an array of bright and bold colours. Carnations represent love and devotion, so could there really be a more appropriate flower for your first wedding anniversary?

How do you choose a gift for a 1st wedding anniversary?

How you choose what type of gift to give your partner for your 1st wedding anniversary depends on you, your budget and your preferences. While you might love to give your other half a gold watch, it might not be possible. And that’s perfectly okay! But bear these points in mind when thinking about what to give your partner to mark your very first wedding anniversary.

Do you follow traditions or not? They’re only there as guidelines, and both the traditional and modern gifts were created in the early 20th century, so might not fit with what you’re looking to give as a gift. Speak to your partner about your plans and expectations ahead of time.
Do you have the appropriate budget? Gold can be expensive, as can clocks and fresh flowers. A paper gift can be affordable and can be interpreted in lots of different ways.
Do you choose something personal? Personalised gifts show that a lot of thoughtfulness went into your gift.
What are their interests? Is there something your partner might like in particular and has dropped hints about or asked for?

If you’re a friend or family member, you might also like to give a traditional or modern gift – they’re not exclusive to the couple themselves. So if you want to join in with the fun and give them something papery or clocky (not their technical terms) then go ahead, they’ll definitely love the thought and symbolism behind your gift!

50 ideas for a 1st wedding anniversary gift

Looking to give your partner a thoughtful gift to mark your 1st anniversary but not sure where to start? Below, we have 50 ideas to help you think of the perfect gift for the love of your life. And if you’re someone with a loved one soon celebrating their 1st anniversary, our choices below should also give you plenty of inspiration for a thoughtful gift.

10 traditional gifts for a 1st wedding anniversary

The traditional gift to give to mark a 1st wedding anniversary is paper, so here are 10 paper gifts to consider giving your other half on this special occasion.

1. Commission an artist to draw or paint your favourite wedding photo

One of the highlights of your whole wedding was no doubt getting your photo album back so you could look through your photos and relive your big day over again. You could reignite those same feelings all over again by commissioning an artist to draw or paint one of your partner’s favourite wedding photos. Digitally produced artwork can easily be printed and framed, which fits nicely with the theme of paper.

You could hire an artist on Etsy, or otherwise speak to an artist you admire by contacting them through their website or on social media.

2. Create an anniversary-themed comic book

If you and your partner have a shared love of comic books or graphic novels, you could create a personalised comic book that features your incredible love story. There are templates you can follow, like the one on Not on the High Street, to create a comic book using photos that are automatically stylised. Or, you could ask a comic book artist to draw something truly unique to you.

3. Frame your wedding vows

Many couples love to write their own wedding vows, which is a super passionate and personal way of telling your partner how you feel in front of your friends and family during your wedding ceremony. To forever immortalise those wonderful words, you could print your vows on high-quality paper, or hire a calligrapher to pen them in handwritten ink. Websites such as Calligraphy Studio offer a bespoke service.

4. Give your partner paper jewellery

Jewellery is always a popular gift, but how can you combine that with the traditional first anniversary gift? Well, there are very talented jewellers out there who can hand-craft delicate and beautiful pieces of jewellery out of paper – everything from bracelets to necklaces. Check out Wire Moon and Li-Chu Wu who are both super-talented paper jewellery designers.

5. A print of your favourite place

After spending so much time together, you probably have a favourite place where the two of you love to hang out, whether it’s your favourite city, a romantic spot somewhere deep in the woods, or beach vista where you like to watch the sunset. Etsy has a huge selection of city art and more which would look wonderful hung up in your home.

6. Where you met heart map

Looking back, there’s nothing quite like the moment you met the person you went on to marry. It might have been a chance encounter at the pub, or you sat beside each other in a university lecture, or you went to see a film together at the cinema after meeting online. Wherever you met, you can have it framed and pinpointed on a heart-shaped map. Check out Positive Prints who can do all the work for you.

7. Printed sheet music for your first dance song

Without a doubt, you’ll always remember the song you had your first dance to for the rest of your lives. Whenever you play it on Spotify or it comes unexpectedly on the radio, you’ll look at your partner with a loving smile (and maybe dance around the lounge, why not?). You can have those wonderful notes and perfect words printed and framed so you can always be reminded of their special meaning. Blim & Blum offers lots of great customisations and styles so they’ll go in any room.

8. Personalised notebooks

If your partner studies or writes a lot of notes for work, or they’re a keen writer, they’ll probably have a lot of notebooks lying around. Combine practicality and thoughtfulness by giving them personalised notebooks, which could include some of your favourite wedding snaps. Getting Personal has a huge variety of different notebooks you can choose from to personalise in loads of different ways.

9. Mini photo book keyring

Your wedding album is possibly one of your most precious possessions, but the problem is that it’s probably quite chunky – not exactly pocket-sized. Well, why not rectify that, with a mini photobook keyring, like the one offered at Wanapix? You can put together a personalised photobook filled with your favourite photos from your wedding, which is dinky enough to attach to a pair of keys and pop right there in your pocket or bag.

10. Paper craft kit

If you and your partner love getting crafty together, you could pick up a paper craft kit, so the two of you can hang out on your anniversary and do some crafting. Makebox has a range of wonderful high-quality paper craft kits available that look great on a shelf or desk once you’re done.

10 modern gifts for a 1st wedding anniversary

If you’re not sure about a paper-themed gift to give to your partner on your anniversary, the modern choice is a clock, which initially might not feel like it opens up your selection, but it does. So, here are 10 clock-themed gifts to consider giving your partner on your first anniversary.

1. Paper clock

You could combine the meanings behind a paper gift with the meaning of a clock-themed gift, by giving your partner the best of both worlds in the form of a paper clock. A clock made from recycled paper has a brilliant meaning to it, with the added bonus of looking smart and being practical.

2. Amazon Echo Show

Smart-home tech is the future, and an Amazon Echo Show not only lets you tell the time (or ask Alexa for it if you’re busy), but is also a handy gadget for cooking, communicating, finding out the weather, setting reminders and more. Plus, it’s always fun to start the day by asking Alexa to tell you a joke (even if they can be a little bit cringe).

3. Personalised clock

A clock might not seem like a super exciting gift, but if you personalise it so that the numbers are photos of your wedding instead, it suddenly means so much more. A personalised clock is unique and thoughtful and unlike any other personalised gift you might give the love of your life.

4. A unique cuckoo clock

Is there anything more beautiful than an ornate cuckoo clock? They’re eye-catching works of art that look great in any home. And they don’t need to be the traditional Swiss cuckoo clock either – like those available at The Bradford Exchange, which are themed to Star Wars, Disney and Ghostbusters among others.

5. An engraved clock

Tell your partner how much the last year has meant to you, and how much you’re looking forward to the future, with an engraved clock. The Engraved Gifts Company has plenty of styles and designs to choose from to suit a wide range of budgets, and they allow you to personalise them with a loving message.

6. A garden sundial

Remember, clocks haven’t always ticking hands that tell the time. Before the clock was even invented, everyone had to use the sun to figure out the time of day using a sundial. Sundials have the added bonus of looking fantastic in your back garden, and come different styles, like those available at Discount Garden Statues. It’s an unexpected historical twist on this modern gift!

7. A gold watch

Not only is your first anniversary linked closely to clocks, but also to gold – so a gold watch seems like a nice meaningful gift. And the good news is, watches come in more shapes, styles and sizes than you can count, plus they can fit a budget of any size. Check out your favourite high-street jeweller as a handy starting block.

8. A projection alarm clock

An obvious choice for a clock-themed gift is an alarm clock, but how can you elevate the humble alarm clock into becoming a unique gift? Well, why not get an alarm clock that both of you can see at the same time, with one that projects the time onto the ceiling? Plus, they have customisable options so it fits with your bedroom and even doubles as a handy mirror.

9. A clock kit

Clocks are complicated to put together, but a clock-making kit means your partner can have the satisfaction of creating something with the functionality of a fabulous-looking clock. Magic Holz has a range of quirky designs, that just so happen to be wood – so they’re technically made from paper, too!

10. A personalised map clock

What could be more lovely every time you glance at the clock, than to be reminded of the place where you and your partner met, or the venue where you both said I do? A clock that features a map makes for a brilliantly unique gift, like those offered by Bombus.

5 affordable gifts for a 1st wedding anniversary

If you’d love to give the love of your life a thoughtful first anniversary gift but you don’t have a big budget (and who can blame you after paying for your wedding?), then don’t worry – there are still plenty of options available. Here are five affordable first anniversary gifts to treat your partner with.

1. A personalised line drawing

Not all personalised gifts come with a big price tag. A personalised line drawing is a simple and effective gift, and one that’s super personal and extremely affordable too. It also looks amazing when hung on the wall.

2. Anniversary toilet paper

Okay, so this one is a bit of a joke gift, but it totally fits with the paper theme of your big day! Anniversary toilet paper is cute and funny, and for a limited time, you’ll be reminded of your anniversary every time you do your business!

3. Love coupons

For something very affordable but also thoughtful and funny, love coupons give your partner the right to cash them in whenever they please. From a car wash to a snuggly movie night in, it gives you an excuse to add a little fun to doing chores and date night.

4. A tiny paper flower

Combine a floral gift with a paper gift, and don’t pay much in the process – three birds with one stone! Plus, it looks incredibly cute and is full of thought, so make that five birds with one stone. Not on the High Street has a selection of lovely paper flowers.

5. A book in their favourite genre

There’s nothing quite like escaping into a good book. If your partner loves to read, you can usually pick up a paperback from your local bookshop for around £8. If you know the sort of book they enjoy reading, read a few blurbs at your local bookshop and ask for some recommendations so you can pick them up something they might love.

5 DIY gifts for a 1st wedding anniversary

Add an extra level of personalisation to your anniversary gift by creating it yourself. Many ideas don’t need a lot of time or skill, just a little bit of creative thinking. Here are five DIY 1st anniversary gift ideas to get you started.

1. A ‘what I love about you’ journal

You no doubt have a ton of really complex feelings about your partner – it’s why you married them in the first place! A what I love about you journal gives you plenty of space to get those thoughts and feelings down on paper, which they can always look back on with love and fondness.

2. A bouquet of paper flowers

Because the traditional gift of a first anniversary is paper, you could hand-craft a bouquet of paper flowers to surprise your love. That might sound tricky, but there are plenty of paper flower video tutorials available, and you can craft them from coloured paper or something meaningful, like the pages of a book or a map of your favourite place. So if you give yourself enough time, you can create a lovely little bouquet that has extra special sentimentality.

3. Paper bunting

Bunting looks great hung up to celebrate any occasion, and homemade paper bunting that features personalised decorations is a wonderful way to tell your partner how you feel. It could feature photographs, ticket stubs, maps, memorabilia… anything you can think of. There are also paper bunting video tutorials to help get you started.

4. Dates in a jar

If you have a sheet of paper and a spare jar, you have everything you need to make a sweet and thoughtful gift. Write down a bunch of ideas for date night (watch a romantic comedy under the covers, have a pizza picnic in the park, read a book together…) and either fold them carefully or tie them up with some string. Once you have enough, you can give them to your partner and ask them to pick one at random every time it’s date night!

5. Homemade scavenger hunt

Write some clues and leave them around your house so your partner has to go on a scavenger hunt. The clues can get progressively harder, and build up to something special at the end, like tickets to a show or co-ordinates to your favourite restaurant.

5 experience or activity gifts for a 1st wedding anniversary

A great way to spend your anniversary is by giving your partner an experience that the two of you can share together. Thankfully, because tickets are often paper, it also lets you tie your gift into the traditional first anniversary theme! So, here are five experience gift ideas for you to consider.

1. Tickets to a cinema with beds

If you’re a cinephile, you might go to the cinema quite regularly, so where’s the sense of special occasion in that? Well, did you know that some cinemas now have beds in them? It’s a simple way to elevate a cinema trip to the next level. It’s true – even big cinema chains like Odeon have seats at the front that allow you to lay down and get snuggly… just no funny business, okay?

2. Theatre tickets

A trip to the theatre is always magical, so why not catch a play or a musical in London or at your local theatre? Check out sites like London Theatre Direct to get a discount on a show you and your other half would love to see.

3. Afternoon tea for two

Is there anything more quaint than afternoon tea for two? Treat your partner to cucumber sandwiches, delectable sweet treats and yummy creamy scones. And if you say ‘time for tea’ it loosely (continuing the tea humour here) connects it to clocks, too! Okay, it’s a bit of a stretch, but afternoon tea is always a winning gift. Virgin Experience Days offers plenty of choice up and down the UK.

4. A night in a nice hotel

Escaping from reality is a great way to spend your anniversary, which you can do by spending a night in a nice hotel. It could be somewhere you’ve been to a thousand times before, or somewhere completely new. Wherever you go, it’ll be lovely to spend time relaxing in each others’ company. Buyagift has some great options for overnight stays.

5. A game of giant Monopoply

Remember shuffling through piles of paper money when you land on someone’s hotel while you’re playing Monopoly? Well, you can do that on a huge scale thanks to lifesized Monopoly! The only thing we ask is that you play nice, because Monopoly is a serious (but extremely fun) game.

10 1st anniversary gifts that contain gold

The first anniversary gemstone (even though it is actually a precious metal) is gold. And of course, gold is one of the most luxurious and eye-catching precious metals there is. Gold jewellery goes with almost anything, and also suits a huge range of styles and budgets. So, you could consider the following types of jewellery that look great in gold:

Earrings
A ring
A necklace
A bracelet
A broach
A locket
A watch
An anklet
A hairpin
Cufflinks

Many high street jewellers will have different items of gold jewellery, so whatever your budget you’ll likely find something that your partner will love. Or, you could check out the range of wedding jewellers we work with, many of which also offer lots of other types of jewellery, too.

5 floral gifts for a 1st wedding anniversary

The traditional anniversary flower to give when celebrating your first anniversary is the carnation, but there are lots of variations to make it extra special. Here are just five floral gift ideas to give your partner something blooming wonderful on your first anniversary.

1. A big bunch of carnations

There’s fabulous meaning behind anniversary carnations, as they symbolise love and devotion, plus they have the added bonus of being big and colourful. They tend to last around two weeks, so they won’t go anywhere fast if you keep them watered and give them flower food.

2. A paper bouquet

Tie the themes of flowers and paper together with a bouquet of paper flowers that are guaranteed never to wilt. Paper Tree offers a lovely bouquet that’s sure to hit the spot.

3. A scented flower card

The anniversary card to top all other anniversary cards, complete with a gorgeous watercolour flower and authentic floral scent. A showstopping 3D flower card is sure to be a gift that your partner will never forget. Check them out at The Luxe Co.

4. Carnation seeds

If you have a garden and space to plant some flowers, carnations will grow quite happily in the UK. If you plant the bulbs after the last frost of winter, you should have some incredible blooms at the end of spring and into later summer. You should be able to find carnation bulbs at your local garden centre.

5. An origami flower

What’s more romantic than a single rose painstakingly crafted using ancient origami techniques from the page of a book? Absolutely nothing. Visit The Origami Boutique to choose the perfect floral gift for your partner.

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What Are the Traditional Wedding Vows?

Wedding vows are one of the most important but often overlooked parts of the wedding day. Because they only last 3-5 minutes, people tend to forget about them! This can lead to stress, anxiety, or even a last-minute scramble to come up with meaningful words. But, not to worry — we’re here to turn that potential stress into a breeze of beauty and tradition.

Infused with love and a symbol of commitment, traditional wedding vows are the perfect way to say ‘I do.’ These beautiful words have stood the test of time, helping generations before us express a love that lasts a lifetime. But, which classic wedding vows should you choose? It can be confusing with so many denominations to choose from.

To help you out, we’ve created a list of classic wedding vows for 22 different denominations! So whether you’re connected to nature, are of Christian or Islamic background, or even if you’re interested in mix-and-matching — we have your back!

What are the traditional wedding vows?

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Traditional wedding vows are the most common types of wedding vows read during a wedding ceremony. In Western countries, classic wedding vows include phrases like “I, [Name], take you, [Partner’s Name], to be my lawfully wedded [wife/husband/life partner]”.

Traditional wedding vows are deeply rooted in religious and cultural traditions. They are read as a sign of commitment to one another and, in some religions, serve as a symbolic contract before the eyes of God.

Do I have to be religious to use traditional wedding vows?

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No, you don’t have to be religious to use traditional wedding vows.

However, you should ideally have a connection to the religion or practice if you want to use the traditional wedding vows of that denomination. This shows respect for the culture and the heritage from which the vows originate.

For example, if your grandmother was Jewish but you haven’t personally practised Judaism, incorporating traditional Jewish wedding vows could be a meaningful way to honour her and the cultural background she cherished. However, having no connection to Judaism and wanting to use their vows may be considered disrespectful.

If you’re adamant you want to use the vows of a specific denomination but have no connection to the faith or culture, consider writing your own vows inspired by the words of that language! This should help you find a happy medium between what you want and being respectful.

22 traditional wedding verses

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Check out this list of traditional wedding vows for 22 different denominations.

Christian wedding vows

Christian wedding vows are generally considered to be the standard wedding vows in Western countries. They’re slightly different from Catholic vows in that they aren’t preceded by any questions.

Traditional Christian wedding vows are:

I, [Name], take you, [Name]

To be my wife/husband/life partner,

To have and to hold

From this day forward;

For better, for worse,

For richer, for poorer,

In sickness and in health,

To love and to cherish,

Till death us do part,

According to God’s holy law.

In the presence of God, I make this vow.

Top Tip: If you’re looking to include a Bible verse in your wedding speech or mix up your wedding vows, check out our post on the 25 best Bible verses for a wedding ceremony. This will help you personalise your wedding vows while still staying true to your religion.

Catholic wedding vows

Catholic wedding vows are usually preceded by three questions from the priest. These questions are called The Order of Celebrating Matrimony.

The priest will say, [Name] and [Name], have you come here to enter into Marriage without coercion, freely and wholeheartedly?

To which the couple must reply that they have.

Are you prepared, as you follow the path of Marriage, to love and honour each other for as long as you both shall live?’

To which the couple must reply that they will.

Are you prepared to accept children lovingly from God and to bring them up according to the law of Christ and his Church?

To which the couple must reply that they will. They can then move on to the traditional Catholic wedding vows

The Priest will then say:

Since it is your intention to enter into the covenant of Holy Matrimony, join your right hands, and declare your consent before God and his Church.

Groom: I, [Name], take you, [Name], to be my wife/life partner. I promise to be true to you in good times and in bad, in sickness and in health. I will love you and honour you all the days of my life.

Bride: I, [Name], take you, [Name], to be my husband/life partner. I promise to be faithful to you in good times and in bad, in sickness and in health, to love you and to honour you all the days of my life.

Anglican wedding vows

Similar to Catholic wedding vows, traditional Anglican wedding vows start off with a question from the celebrant. This is called the interrogation, and reads as follows:

Into this union [Name] and [Name] now come to be joined. If any of you can show just cause why they may not be lawfully wed, speak now, or else forever hold your peace.

There is usually a pause (and some giggles) as you wait for someone to speak.

If no one does, the Priest or celebrant moves on to say:

I charge you both, here in the presence of God and the witness of this company, that if either of you know any reason why you may not be married lawfully and in accordance with God’s Word, do now confess it.

The Priest or celebrant then says to the bride:

[Name], will you have this man to be your husband/life partner, to live together with them in the covenant of marriage? Will you love them, comfort them, honour and keep them, in sickness and in health; and, forsaking all others, be faithful unto them as long as you both shall live?

The bride then says:

I will.

The Priest or celebrant says to the groom:

[Name], will you have this person to be your wife/life partner; to live together with them in the covenant of marriage? Will you love them, comfort them, honour and keep them, in sickness and in health; and, forsaking all others, be faithful unto them as long as you both shall live?

The groom then answers:

I will.

The Priest or celebrant addresses the guests, saying:

Will all of you witnessing these promises do all in your power to uphold these two persons in their marriage?

The congregation responds:

We will.

Methodist wedding vows

Traditionally, Methodist weddings will have shorter vows than other branches of Christianity.

Many Methodists use the following vows:

I, [Name], take thee [Name], to be my wife/husband/life partner, to have and to hold,

from this day forward, for better – for worse, for richer – for poorer,

in sickness and in health, to love and to cherish, till death do us part,

and thereto I pledge thee my faith.

However, some prefer an even shorter vow reading. This is called the United Methodist Declaration of Consent:

I take you, [Name], to be my wife/husband/life partner from this day forward, to join with you and share all that is to come, and I promise to be faithful to you of God and this congregation to declare your intent.

Lutheran wedding vows

Similar to Methodist vows, traditional Lutheran wedding vows are on the shorter side compared to standard Christian or Catholic wedding vows. Classic wedding vows include:

In the presence of God our Father, the Lord Jesus Christ, the Holy Spirit, and this community, I, [Name], take you, [Name], to be my wife/husband/life partner; to have and to hold from this day forward, in joy and in sorrow, in plenty and in want, in sickness and in health, to love and to cherish, as long as we both shall live. This is my solemn vow.

You could also use:

I, [Name], take you, [Name], to be my wife/husband/life partner from this day forward, to join with you and share all that is to come, and I promise to be faithful to you until death parts us.

Baptist wedding vows

As with other Christian wedding vows, Baptist wedding vows usually include promises of love, commitment, and partnership. However, there is usually more freedom to craft your own marriage promises in Baptist wedding ceremonies. You should work closely with your Priest or celebrant to craft vows that uniquely represent you as a couple.

Traditional Baptist wedding vows are usually pretty short and read as follows:

Will you have [Name] to be your wife/husband/life partner? Will you love them, comfort and keep them, and forsaking all others remain true to them, as long as you both shall live?”

The couple then respond:

I will.

Alternatively, you could create your own wedding vows to read on your special day.

Presbyterian wedding vows

Traditional Presbyterian wedding vows follow a similar structure to other Christian wedding vows. However, as with Baptist weddings, couples in a Presbyterian wedding may have the option to include personal promises or vows.

If you’re looking for a jumping-off point, try following this classic structure. First, the celebrant will say:

[Name], wilt thou have this woman/man/person to be thy wife/husband/life partner, and wilt thou pledge thy faith to them, in all love and honour, in all duty and service, in all faith and tenderness, to live with them, and cherish them, according to the ordinance of God, in the holy bond of marriage?

Bride/groom/life partner: I will.

Quaker wedding vows

In keeping with Quaker traditions, Quaker wedding ceremonies are usually a silent affair. The partners and their guests will meet for a silent worship. This means the couple and guests gather in silence, waiting for divine guidance. The couple will rise to exchange their vows when they feel moved to do so.

When they do, they will usually say something like:

In the presence of God and these our friends, I, [Name], take thee, [Name], to be my wife/husband/life partner, promising with Divine assistance to be unto thee a loving and faithful spouse, until it shall please the Lord by death to separate us.

Episcopalian wedding vows

Traditional Episcopalian wedding vows may vary slightly depending on the specific texts used in the church. However, they generally follow this traditional structure:

I, [Name], take you, [Name], to be my wedded [wife/husband/life partner], to have and to hold from this day forward, for better for worse, for richer for poorer, in sickness and in health, to love and to cherish, till death us do part, according to God’s holy ordinance; and thereto I pledge you my faith.

Jehovah’s Witness wedding vows

Jehovah’s Witnesses usually have simple wedding ceremonies followed by a small gathering of friends afterwards. The main feature of these weddings is not the vows, but instead the wedding talk. This is a religious reading, which is usually around 30 minutes long and read by a Priest or faith leader.

If the bride and groom would like to exchange vows, they usually read the following:

Priest: [Name], do you take [Name] to be your wife/life partner, to love and cherish, according to God’s Holy Word?

Groom: Yes, I do.

Priest: [Name], do you take [Name] to be your husband/life partner, to love and submit to, according to God’s Holy Word?

Bride: Yes, I do.

Unitarian wedding vows

The Unitarians are a more liberal branch of Christianity. As a result, there are no set traditions or constraints for Unitarian weddings. Instead, Unitarian weddings are focused on the joining of two souls regardless of religious background, gender, or beliefs.

Unitarian wedding ceremonies are usually completely bespoke — the Priest or celebrant works with the couple to create a service that suits them. This means you are encouraged to write your own wedding vows for the ceremony.

If you’re really stuck, try following this format. First, the celebrant will say:

Do you, [Name], take [Name] to be your lawfully wedded spouse, to love and to cherish, to honour and respect, in times of joy and in times of challenge, forsaking all others and holding only unto them?

Bride/groom/life partner: I do.

Celebrant: And do you, [Name], take [Name] to be your lawfully wedded spouse, to love and to cherish, to honour and respect, in times of joy and in times of challenge, forsaking all others and holding only unto them?

Bride/groom/life partner: I do.

Interfaith wedding vows

Interfaith weddings are where two people from different religions or cultures come together to hold a wedding that represents them. Interfaith weddings highlight the beauty of finding common ground while honouring differences.

They are usually a blend of the couple’s favourite traditions and customs from their individual cultures or religions. They not only unite the couple, but also foster a broader sense of understanding and appreciation among their families and communities.

As a result, there are no traditional wedding vows for interfaith weddings. Instead, each couple can use the traditional wedding vows from their respective backgrounds to create a beautiful and unique ceremony that represents them as a couple.

Apache wedding vows

Apache weddings are usually called Apache blessings and are a beautiful and poetic way for those from the Native American community to celebrate their love.

It’s important to note that these words are often attributed to the Apache people, but their actual origin and cultural authenticity have been debated.

The traditional Apache wedding blessing is as follows:

Now you will feel no rain,

For each of you will be the shelter to the other.

Now you will feel no cold,

For each of you will be the warmth of the other.

Now there is no more loneliness,

For each of you will be the companion to the other.

Now you are two bodies,

But there is only one life before you.

Go now to your dwelling place

To enter into the days of your togetherness.

And may your days be good and long upon the Earth.

Buddhist wedding vows

Buddhist wedding ceremonies can vary widely based on cultural and regional traditions. As a result, there’s no standardised set of traditional Buddhist wedding vows. Instead, Buddhist wedding vows often revolve around the principles of Buddhism. For example, mutual respect, understanding, and commitment.

Consider using something like:

As we enter into this union, I vow to honour and respect you, to support and cherish you in times of joy and sorrow. I promise to cultivate patience, understanding, and compassion as we walk the path of life together. May our union be guided by the principles of the Buddha, and may we find joy and contentment in each other’s presence. Just as the lotus rises above the muddy waters, may our love bloom amidst the challenges of life. I take refuge in the Three Jewels and commit to nurturing our spiritual growth and understanding.

However, if you’re looking for something shorter, you may also consider:

I, [Name], take you [Name] to be my faithful wife/husband/life partner, and my one true love. I will cherish our friendship and love you today, tomorrow, and forever. I will trust you and honour you. I will laugh with you and cry with you. Through sickness and health.

Jewish wedding vows

Jewish wedding ceremonies have some of the oldest wedding vows in human history. As a result, Jewish celebrations are steeped in rich traditions that have been passed down through generations. They draw on inspiration from ancient texts like the Torah and emphasise the importance of building a home based on shared values and mutual support.

Jewish wedding vows are generally split into the Kiddushin, or the Sanctification, and then the Sheva B’rachot, or the Seven Blessings. There are also other celebrations during a Jewish wedding like the Nissiun, the ring exchange, a reading from the Song of Solomon, and the breaking of glass.

This Kiddushin is as follows:

Rabbi: [Name], do you take [Name] to be your wife/life partner, to honour, cherish, and protect them, and to live with them in a committed and loving partnership?

Groom/life partner: I do.

Rabbi: [Name], do you take [Name] to be your husband/life partner, to honour, cherish, and support them, and to live with them in a committed and loving partnership?

Bride/life partner: I do.

After the Kiddushin there is the Nissiun, which is where the Rabbi reads the marriage contract. After this there is a ring exchange, followed by the Seven Blessings:

Rabbi: Blessed are You, Adonai our God, Ruler of the universe, who has created joy and gladness, bride and groom, mirth, song, delight, and rejoicing. May there soon be heard in the cities of Judah and the streets of Jerusalem the sound of joy and the sound of gladness, the voice of the groom and the voice of the bride.

After this, there is a reading from the Song of Solomon and the breaking of glass.

Muslim wedding vows

Muslim or Islamic marriage vows reflect the Muslim wedding contract. This is called the Nikah and includes specific statements made by the couple to one another. The bride traditionally reads her vows first.

I, [Name], offer you myself in marriage and in accordance with the instructions of the Holy Qur’an and the Holy Prophet, peace and blessing be upon him. I pledge, in honesty and with sincerity, to be for you an obedient and faithful wife/life partner.

The other partner responds: I, [Name], in accordance with the instructions of the Holy Qur’an and the Holy Prophet, peace and blessing be upon him. I pledge, in honesty and sincerity, to be for you a faithful and helpful husband/life partner.

The Imam or prayer leader then completes the vows with:

May Allah bless this union and grant [Name] and [Name] a happy and prosperous life together.

Hindu wedding vows

Similar to Jewish weddings, Hindu wedding ceremonies are steeped in history and have a great cultural significance to the religion. Hindu marriage vows are an integral part of the wedding ceremony and symbolise the sacred bond that the couple is entering into.

There are four parts to a Hindu wedding ceremony, with the vows or pledge (called Sankalpa) being led by a Pandit or Pujari. The Sankalpa is as follows. First, the Pandit will say:

In the presence of the sacred fire, the deities, and our families, do you, [Name], take [Name] as your lawfully wedded wife/life partner? Will you cherish and protect her, and fulfil your responsibilities as a husband?

Groom/life partner: I do.

Pandit: And do you, [Name], take [Name] as your lawfully wedded husband/life partner? Will you be a devoted wife and fulfil your responsibilities in this sacred union?

Bride/life partner: I do.

Sikh wedding vows

Sikh weddings are also called Anand Karaj ceremonies and include a reading from the Guru Granth Sahib, the holy scripture of Sikhism. Traditional Sikh weddings don’t include a vow exchange.

However, if you’re looking to incorporate wedding vows into your Sikh wedding ceremony, it’s essential to approach it with respect for Sikh traditions and customs.

Pagan wedding vows

Pagan wedding vows are a great choice for anyone with a strong connection to nature, who practises neo-paganism, or who is looking for a more spiritual wedding ceremony.

Pagan wedding vows are often deeply personal and can vary widely based on individual beliefs, preferences, and the specific traditions followed. As a result, there are no traditional Pagan wedding vows. Instead, the couple take part in handfasting ceremony vows.

Handfasting is a tradition where the couple’s hands are bound together with coloured cord. The colour of the cord has different symbolic meanings. For example:

Red. Red attracts strength, courage, and fertility.
Orange. Orange offers encouragement, attraction, and kindness.
Blue. Blue brings patience, understanding, and loyalty.

While the service leader ties the couple’s hand together, they may say something like:

As a symbol of your unity, you shall now bind your hands together. These cords represent the ties that bind your hearts and souls. Will you honour and uphold one another through all the twists and turns that life may bring?

Partners (together): We will.

Celtic wedding vows

The Celts are people of Scottish, Irish, Welsh, and Cornish heritage. If you want to honour your ancestry by incorporating Celtic elements into your wedding ceremony, use these vows to draw on the rich cultural and spiritual traditions of the Celts.

The Celts also use a handfasting ceremony to symbolise the binding of two lives together in love and commitment. However, they traditionally use different wedding vows. You could either use:

You are blood of my blood, bone of my bone. I give you my body, that we might be one. I give you my spirit, until our life is done.

Or:

You are the star of each night,

You are the brightness of every morning,

You are the story of each guest,

You are the report of every land.

No evil shall befall you, on hill nor bank,

In field or valley, on mountain or in glen.

Neither above, nor below, neither in sea,

Nor on shore, in skies above,

Nor in the depths.

You are the kernel of my heart,

You are the face of my sun,

You are the harp of my music,

You are the crown of my company.

Druidry wedding vows

Druid weddings are similar to Celtic or Pagan weddings in that they often draw inspiration from nature and ancient traditions. They also tend to be more personalised to the couple’s unique spiritual beliefs and values.

Druid weddings embrace the idea that each couple’s love is a unique and sacred expression, meaning couples are encouraged to write their own marriage vows.

Non-denominational wedding vows

A non-denominational wedding is a wedding that doesn’t fit into any other specific category. This means you can pick and choose the traditions you want to follow, creating a day that’s as unique and special as your love story.

So, whether you draw inspiration from various cultural traditions, blend modern and classic elements, or create entirely new rituals, the freedom to personalise your ceremony is one of the defining features of a non-denominational wedding.

The bottom line on traditional wedding vows

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If you’re looking for stress-free wedding vows, traditional marriage vows are the way to go. They’re beautiful, timeless, and have been used for hundreds of years to help people express their love. Plus, using traditional wedding vows means you’re sure you cover all your bases in terms of marriage promises.

But, if you are looking for something a little more bespoke, don’t be afraid to mix it up. Custom marriage vows are becoming more and more common, and there’s nothing wrong with deviating from tradition so long as it feels true to your relationship.

If you’re looking to infuse some personalisation into your traditional vows, get inspired by our 15 romantic and inspiring love poems to get you started. Alternatively, if you want to write your own vows from scratch, try our ultimate guide on how to write wedding vows.

Happy Planning!

How Long Should Wedding Vows Be?

Hey, lovebirds. Are you looking for a guide on how long your wedding vows should be? Then you’re in the right place!

Getting the length of your vows right can be tricky. We know you want to tell the world how much you love your partner. But, we recommend you save that for the wedding speeches and keep your wedding vows short, sweet, and to the point. Aim for an average of 2 to 3 minutes. This allows you to express your love without making your guests feel like they’ve settled in for a feature-length film.

This article explores exactly how long your vows should be, the benefits of writing your own wedding vows, and common pitfalls that can trip you up during the writing process. Keep reading to learn how to write wedding vows and nail the perfect length for your marriage promises.

What are wedding vows?

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Wedding vows are the promises you make to your spouse-to-be on your special day. Vows are read during the wedding ceremony and are traditionally first read by the groom. However, your wedding ceremony should be a reflection of your relationship, and you can read your vows in whatever order you’d prefer.

How long should wedding vows be?

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Wedding vows should last at least 1 minute but no longer than 4 minutes per person. Ideally, wedding vows should last between 2 and 3 minutes per person. This gives a total of 6 minutes on average.

If you have a lot to say, you can go as long as 4 minutes. Any longer than this and you run the risk of losing your guests’ attention. Keeping them within the recommended time frame ensures that your words are impactful without becoming overwhelming.

Should I write my own wedding vows?

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Writing your own wedding vows can be a great choice. Check out all the benefits of writing personalised wedding vows:

You have full control. Writing your own vows means you have full control over the content, length, and structure of your vows. Want to keep it short and sweet? Go for it! Feel like pouring your heart out with a longer expression of love? Totally your call.
Memorable for you and your guests. Writing your own wedding vows will make the ceremony more memorable for your partner and guests. Try injecting a funny anecdote, special memory, or personalised story into your vows to make your spouse-to-be smile.
A symbol of your commitment to your partner. Writing your own vows isn’t easy— it would be much quicker to stick to the standard script. But, by pouring your thoughts and emotions onto paper, you’re demonstrating a level of care and commitment that goes beyond the traditional.
Keepsakes for the future. Keep all the drafts of your wedding vows. It doesn’t matter if they were scribbled on the pack of a coaster or written in a special notebook. The different drafts of your wedding vows can be a unique and beautiful keepsake to gift to your spouse. They show your thought process in the lead-up to the wedding and are a tangible representation of the effort you put into your special day.

Pro tip: Frame every version of your wedding vows in side-by-side frames. You can then gift them to your spouse for your paper wedding anniversary (that’s your first anniversary – learn more in our wedding anniversary gift guide).

Common mistakes when writing your own wedding vows

Writing your own wedding vows or marriage promises can be tricky. Be careful to avoid these 4 common pitfalls:

1. Not leaving enough time for edits

We’ve all been there – we’ve left our coursework or homework until the day before the deadline. But your wedding vows are more than just words on paper. Rushing through the writing process may mean you miss out on important memories or sentiments that dilute the meaning of your vows.

We recommend starting work on your vows at least two weeks before the big day. Once completed, set your first draft aside for a week or so. Think about anything but your vows during this time. Once your mind feels fresh, come back to your vows and begin to edit them. Cut anything that feels forced or impersonal. You can also add extra anecdotes, inside jokes, or quotes if the vows feel too sparse. Check out our post of 100+ love quotes to inspire you.

2. Being too personal

Striking the balance between expressing your love without oversharing can be a delicate balance when writing your vows. It’s natural to want to tell your guests just how much you love your partner, but it’s important to remember that all their family, friends, and possibly work colleagues are present.

Focus on highlighting your partner’s best qualities, the excitement leading up to this day, and how blessed you feel to share your life with this person. Throw in a few anecdotes or inside jokes for good measure, and you’ve got a recipe for beautiful vows that hit just the right mark.

3. Taking too long

As mentioned earlier, taking too long to read your vows will risk losing the attention of and emotional connection with both your partner and your audience. Although vows are an important and lovely part of the wedding ceremony, it’s important that your words are heartfelt and sincere. Keep them short, sweet, and to the point.

Try to stick to the 2-minute mark for your wedding vows. You can increase it to 4 minutes at a push, but we don’t recommend going on any longer than this.

4. Not practising as you go

Practising as you go is a great way to sound out phrases or sentences in your vows. If something doesn’t quite sound right or flow smoothly, practising as you go allows you to make quick adjustments. This can reduce the overall editing process and help you get to your final product more quickly.

Write your own wedding vows today with Bridebook

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Writing your own vows gives you full control over the length, contents, and structure of your wedding promises. It’s the perfect opportunity to inject your personality and unique love story into your big day.

Wedding vows should be an average of 2 minutes in length. They should be at least 1 minute long, but no longer than 4 minutes. Focus on quality over quantity and make sure that what you say resonates with your partner.

If you’re feeling stuck, check out some of our posts on wedding vows and speeches. You’re sure to find inspiration in these 15 romantic and inspiring love poems. Or, if you’re looking for something more religious, try using snippets from our 25 best Bible readings post.

FAQs

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Is 3 minutes too long for wedding vows?

Like baby bear’s porridge, 3 minutes is just right for wedding vows. It gives you enough time to say everything you want to say without overwhelming your audience.

How do you end a wedding vow?

We recommend ending your wedding vows with a sweet sentiment. Try something simple like, “I love you” or “I can’t wait to start the rest of our lives together”, or something silly like, “I guess we’re pretty serious then?”

Who says their wedding vows first?

The groom traditionally reads his vows first. However, you can mix this up however you’d like in a modern wedding.

Happy Planning!

Bridebook Engagement Trends Report: 13 Key Wedding Trends for 2024 and Beyond

If you’re curious about what the key wedding trends will be for 2024 and beyond, you’ve come to the right place. Our Engagement Report provides unparalleled insights into the ever-changing landscape of weddings. Based on feedback from over 3,500 engaged couples planning weddings for 2024 and beyond, the report sheds light on the evolving preferences and trends that shape today’s weddings. Read on to get the low-down on the biggest trends for the year ahead, along with some expert insights from Fran Everist, Director of Sales and Marketing at Hedsor House in Buckingshamshire, on what’s popular with today’s couples, and why.

As the average amount couples spend on their wedding continues to rise in recent years, and as Gen Z couples come of age, we’re seeing plenty of new wedding trends emerge. From changing proposal dynamics and evolving style trends, to prioritising personalisation and guest experience to blending tradition with innovation, to embracing both sustainability and technology, 2024 weddings promise to be a unique tapestry of meaningful connections and stand-out experiences. Today’s couples are redefining traditional norms to create bespoke celebrations that reflect their diverse tastes and interests. Here are our top 13 trends to watch…

1. Gen Z is coming of age

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According to our survey, the average length of dating before engagement stands at 4.7 years, with 30-year-olds dating for 4+ years most likely to plan an engagement. And yet, in a notable shift, 23% of engaged couples are now part of Gen Z, a 12% increase from those married in 2022.

Gen Z, who are currently represented by those aged 11-26, are known for being digital natives with short attention spans (8 seconds!). They’re visually and video-led, and value social proof, authenticity, personalisation, and sustainability.

Younger couples, particularly 20-somethings, favour outdoor proposals specifically, and 27% choose to pop the question while on holiday. Family involvement is highest among Gen Z couples, with 49% seeking parental blessings in advance.

Perhaps surprisingly in today’s digital landscape, 61-71% of all couples don’t film or photograph their proposals. However, 67% share their engagement on social media within one day.

2. Couples are discussing marriage in advance

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Our Engagement Report reveals a significant difference in how Gen Z couples approach engagements. A notable 53% of 20-somethings discuss plans for marriage in advance of the engagement, compared to 32% of 40-somethings, which suggests transparency and shared decision-making are a key priority for younger couples specifically.

Commenting on this trend, Hamish Shephard, Bridebook’s founder and qualified wedding planner, notes, “Gen Z is redefining the narrative of engagements. Their decisions reflect a generation that values considered, meaningful connections, with an emphasis on taking the time to build a solid foundation before making lifelong commitments. Gen Z is clearly challenging traditional norms, clearly valuing open communication and partnership. The modern couple is breaking away from stereotypical gender roles, viewing marriage as a shared and collaborative journey.”

3. Pets are getting wedding invites, while parents’ friends are out

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Less than half of today’s couples will invite their parents’ friends. Our Engagement Report reveals that only 42% of Gen Z, 38% of Millennials and 27% of Gen X will invite them.

On the other hand, nearly 1-in-5 (21%) of Gen Z couples will include pets on their guest list. So it’s good news for your furry friends, though not quite so good news for your parents’ friends! Fran Everist tells us that Hedsor House has “seen a big leap in the numbers of couples bringing their dogs to their wedding. Take-up of our Canine Concierge service has trebled in the last year, with couples very much seeing their dogs as an essential part of the family. Pet donkeys, llamas and cats have also made it onto the guest list!”

On the subject of guest lists, half of couples will also allow children at their weddings, with older Gen X couples being the most likely to include children. When it comes to children at weddings, Fran Everist adds that while this does not yet relate to Gen Z couples, Millennials also “seem to be increasingly having the house and children first, and the wedding afterwards.”

4. TikTok as a wedding planning tool

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A notable 41% of Gen Z couples are using TikTok for wedding purposes, the highest among all segments. This represents a huge jump from 11% of all engaged couples in 2021, and not only suggests a preference for digital expression, but also highlights the profound impact that social media platforms can have on shaping the narrative of modern weddings.”

Hamish remarks, “As true digital natives, Gen Z couples are rewriting traditional approaches to wedding planning. We’re seeing a drive towards fostering a sense of community and inspiring others to embrace new and creative wedding trends.”

5. The rise of AI

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Today’s couples are embracing technology, with 7% using AI for music playlists and 5% turning to generative content for speeches, invitations and vows.

This again highlights that as weddings become both more personalised and tech-savvy, couples are embracing innovative tools to craft a truly unique celebration.

6. Sustainability takes centre stage

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Today’s couples are increasingly incorporating sustainability tactics into the weddings, from favouring lab-grown diamonds to upcycled decor and paper-free invitations. They also enjoy second-hand, meaningful items, especially jewellery:

47% will have plant-based confetti, the most popular eco-friendly activity.
Preference for ethical jewellery has more than doubled from 6% to 14%.
Preference for pre-loved attire has also more than doubled from 7% to 16%.
Upcycled decor and paper-free invitations have risen by almost 10% since 2022.
22% use second-hand items (such as grandmother’s ring, or family heirloom jewellery).
Many are considering selling their wedding decor and fashion items.

Gen Z are revealed to be most committed to sustainability, and are the group that is most likely to resell their wedding items, from decor to bridesmaid’s outfits and their wedding dress (21% of Gen Z will consider selling their wedding dress compared to 18% of Millennials).

Commenting on this trend, Fran Everist notes that “Hedsor House, which launched the very first carbon-neutral wedding package last year, is seeing a gradual shift in couples wanting more sustainable choices. Whether it’s swapping cut flowers in favour of faux blooms, or wanting their wedding breakfast to be locally sourced, couples are making meaningful changes to their day.”

7. Unique speciality catering is what it’s all about (especially pizza)

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Unique specialty catering gains popularity as couples look for new and different ways to entertain guests and create bespoke experiences. Couples want that stand-out, ‘wow’ factor.

Most notably, 16% of engaged couples want food trucks at their wedding. Of these planning for food trucks, nearly three-quarters (71%) will have a pizza van specifically. So if you’re fancying a fun and more laid-back catering option for your wedding next year, you won’t be alone! And this culinary customisation extends beyond savoury food: 1-in-4 (25%) couples plan to have pick ’n’ mix sweet stations, while 1-in-5 will have signature cocktails as the most popular specialty drink.

Fran Everist associates this trend with the rise of outdoor weddings, as more and more couples look for “relaxed dining options which mirror the vibe. Hedsor House is seeing an increase in requests for BBQs, hog roasts and street food. The classic English Afternoon Tea is also a growing favourite for those looking for elegance and insta-appeal.”

8. Champagne still rules as the top wedding drink

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Classic bubbly remains the favourite celebratory drink among today’s couples. Champagne will be served at 1-in-5 (21%) weddings in 2024. On the other hand, beer proves to be an unpopular wedding drink, with only 4% of couples planning to serve it.

Not many couples are going teetotal next year. Only 4% will have a completely alcohol-free wedding, while 3% will have a deliberately low-alcohol wedding. So it’s all about the bubbles!

9. Rustic vibes and green tones will reign supreme, while themed weddings gain in popularity

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Rustic vibes will dominate 2024 weddings, with greens reigning as the top wedding colour. Unique gemstones like emerald and moss agate gain popularity as 39% of Millennials and Gen Z couples plan rustic-style weddings, including having a barn or farmhouse as their wedding venue. A rustic wedding is a more informal style of wedding than is traditional. It’s one which draw inspiration from the countryside, incorporating elements of nature, vintage decor, DIY touches and warm, earthy tones, and ties in nicely with today’s couples’ commitment to sustainability and environmentalism.

Couples are clearly being drawn to the authenticity and intimacy that rustic aesthetics provide, and want to create a wedding atmosphere that feels both timeless and personally meaningful. 2024 weddings will celebrate individuality and depart from the conventional. Move over luxury glam or elegance! Next year is all about natural charm grounded in charm and simplicity.

Fran Everist notes that Hedsor House is seeing “couples increasingly wanting to marry outside which is very much about wanting to enjoy the unique country setting.”

Among Gen Z in particular, themed weddings are also in, with 6% of these couples planning a themed wedding. Popular themed wedding styles include Disney, Lord of the Rings, Harry Potter, Halloween, celestial, festival and throwbacks like the 80s or TV sitcoms or movies.

Fran Everist agrees that “couples are increasingly bringing their unique personality to their nuptials. Hedsor House has seen a rise in themed weddings with Harry Potter, Pokémon and Mario Kart being recent examples.”

10. Top first dance songs combine the classic with the contemporary

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The top 25 first dance songs of 2024 feature legendary classics alongside contemporary hits, with Elvis Presley reigning supreme amidst male vocal ballads and country songs.

The no.1 first dance song of the year is an old favourite, “Can’t Help Falling In Love”, by Elvis Presley – no doubt seeing a revival following the 2022 biopic ‘Elvis’ – while Ed Sheeran, Shania Twain and Elton John each hold two songs in the top 25.

Male vocal ballads are trending as well. In particular, James Arthur, Lewis Capaldi, Biffy Clyro and Clinton Kane are firm favourites for 2024 first dance songs.

Country music songs are gaining popularity, with Luke Combs and Lonestar ranking the highest.

11. Weddings will be fun and games

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Weddings aren’t just the greatest parties of all time. They’re fabulous, showstopping spectacles, and a chance to enjoy unique experiences with the ones you love. Given today’s couples preference for unique, bespoke celebrations, it’s no wonder that couples are going beyond classic wedding music entertainment, like bands and DJs, opting to explore fun and quirky non-music entertainment too.

Couples getting married in 2024 don’t want stiff formal affairs, but are instead embracing informal playfulness. Most notably, our Engagement Report reveals that 23% of engaged couples want garden games to feature at their weddings. Think horseshoes, giant Jenga, lawn bowling, and croquet, and even old sports day classics like egg and spoon and sack or space hopper races.

In general, couples are looking to showcase a wide variety of entertainment. 19% will have fireworks, while 8% enjoy the idea of secret singers or singing waiters. Other interesting wedding entertainment options for 2024 include magic mirrors, a live portrait artist or caricaturist, axe throwing, and even mini golf/crazy golf. Couples are embracing anything and everything. The point is to put fun at the heart of their wedding, and to really prioritise guest experience.

Commenting on this trend towards spectacular and unique wedding entertainment, Fran Everist observes that “fireworks continue to be very popular at Hedsor House, and classic English lawn games like croquet are on the rise as couples embrace the outdoor country house vibe.”

And to hold on to these unique memories, 1-in-10 (11%) will have an audio guestbook. What a great way to bring guests’ experience to life, beyond the more traditional written notes.

12. Out with (some of) the old

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In the realm of wedding traditions, the ‘first look’ trend remains en vogue. More specifically, 22% of Gen Z couples enjoy this trend, the highest among all generational groups. Some other traditions are standing the test of time. For example, walking down the aisle by one or both parents, exchanging rings and vows, first dance, wedding speeches, and cake-cutting.

Yet other old wedding traditions are on their way out. Half of couples won’t have confetti or rice thrown at their wedding (Fran Everist comments that bubbles and sparklers are popular alternatives these days), and only half of couples will offer wedding favours to their guests.

Tossing the bouquet and carrying the bride over the threshold represent some of the least used traditions in today’s weddings. Couples are instead tossing away tradition, and turning to social media instead – specifically viral TikTok trends – and we’ll only see more of this moving into 2024.

Weddings in 2024 will clearly be an interesting tapestry of tradition and innovation, showcasing the diverse tastes and values of today’s progressive couples, who on the one hand continue to uphold traditions that remain relevant to them, but who equally aren’t afraid of creating bespoke experiences that to fit their unique vision and values.

13. Multi-day weddings and bigger is better

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When it comes to wedding lengths and timings, our Engagement Report shows that younger couples are favouring longer multi-day affairs, with 36% of Millennials and 34% of Gen Z planning weddings spanning more than one day to truly celebrate in style. Who can blame them? After all, why have just a single wedding day when you can have a wedding weekend! The younger generation clearly want to stretch out the celebrations as much as possible and make the most out of their weddings, following the American trend of having a rehearsal dinner the night before.

Fran Everist agrees that “multi-day weddings are definitely on the rise, whether that’s at weekends, or during the week. Rather than the inconvenience and expense of going abroad for destination weddings, many couples are choosing to create more relaxed UK experiences with extended celebrations. Morning-after brunches and night-before BBQs are often highlights; couples enjoy using all of the venue’s spaces for different aspects of their experience, including the grounds.”

This relates to a wider cultural shift among the youth of today. After the years of enforced isolation at the hands of the pandemic, followed by the war in Europe and the cost of living crisis, those who can afford it want to party, and bigger is better than ever. It’s all about the energy and all about the fun. And here at Bridebook, where creating joy underpins everything we do, we’re all for it.

The bottom line on 2024 wedding trends

There you have our top 13 trends of next year! With the influential rise of Gen Z weddings, 2024 weddings are poised to be a fusion of tradition and innovation and, above all, celebrate each couple’s joy through hyper-personalisation. Weddings have changed a lot in recent years, and are set to change even more before next year is out, while still clinging on to what makes them so special. Which of these new trends will you be incorporating into your own big day?

Happy Planning!

How to Plan a Wedding: Our Step-By-Step Wedding Planning Guide

Getting married is such a fun and exciting time. After the thrill of getting engaged and enjoying your new-found status as someone with a fiance, it’ll soon be time to knuckle down and plan the biggest party of your life.

When it comes to wedding planning, there’s so much to think about. There’s the venue, theme, flowers, food, ceremony, your guest list, what gifts you should buy the wedding party, what time everything starts… the list goes on and on. There’s so much to think about, research and decide on, that it can be difficult knowing where to even begin. If you’ve never done it before, you’ll no doubt have a ton of questions about how to plan a wedding. It’s only natural: there are a lot of pieces that have to come together to produce the perfect wedding for you.

That’s where we come in. At Bridebook, we’re wedding planning experts, so we know exactly what goes into organising every different type of wedding there is. So, in this guide, we’re going to dive into every stage of planning a wedding, from the moment you get engaged right through to the moment you say, I do! That way, you’ll know what you need to do to have the wedding of your dreams.

Is planning a wedding difficult?

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Planning a wedding can be a long process with lots of different moving parts. It takes effort and commitment but doesn’t necessarily have to be difficult. There’s so much to think about, that if you don’t go in prepared, it can make planning a wedding feel more difficult than it has to be. But like with anything, with solid strategies, teamwork and communication, it can be a fun and rewarding process.

How long does it take to plan a wedding?

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Planning a wedding takes as long as it needs to. Yes, this is a wishy-washy answer, but it’s true. It also heavily depends on the size and scale of your wedding, and how ambitious you want it to be. In theory, you could organise a beautiful registry office wedding in less than a month. You might even be able to plan a wonderful traditional wedding in as little as a few months, but the grander and more personalised you’d like your wedding to be, the longer it’ll take to plan. It’s also worth bearing in mind that popular venues and vendors can be booked up as much as two years in advance.

If you’re having a religious wedding ceremony, this can also determine when you can get married. For example, if you want a Catholic wedding ceremony, you have to give at least six months’ notice before you can get married.

If you do want to get married in the near future but you haven’t even made a start on the planning, think about just how much work goes into organising a wedding – so much so, it takes most couples one to two years to plan one. You’ll have to research, design, speak to, book or pay for your:

Timeline
Ceremony
Budget
Guestlist
Venue
Reception
Officiants
Vendors
Hair and beauty
Attire
Decor
Catering
Rings
Marriage license
Accommodation
Gifts and favours
Stationery
Honeymoon

Plus a heck of a lot more. If you think you can plan that much stuff in just a few months, then go for it. It’s more than achievable if you’re happy having a smaller wedding, like a registry office ceremony, but larger, more traditional or religious weddings will be quite a stretch. But, never say never – just be prepared to get stuck in.

How soon should you start planning your wedding?

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This can be a difficult question to answer, because it depends on how much time you have between now and your perfect wedding date. In an ideal world, you’ll want to allow at least two years to plan your wedding, as this is generally enough time to allow you to find and book your dream venue and vendors – especially if you want to go for something popular with other couples.

Depending on your circumstances, you may want to get married on a specific date, which may well be a year or less away. If this is the case, you’ll absolutely be able to do it, but it might mean you’ll have to work a little harder to find a venue and professionals who still have availability, especially if your chosen date falls on a Friday, Saturday or Sunday.

If you’re having a smaller, more intimate wedding, then you’ll find it easier to organise a wedding in a shorter timeframe. The general rule is, the larger the wedding, the more time you should allow for the planning. If you can, give yourself plenty of time, so you don’t need to rush, you can spread out some of the costs, and you’ll have a wider choice when it comes to venues and vendors.

Think about hiring a wedding planner

Before you begin planning your wedding, and definitely before you make any bookings or pay any deposits, talk to your partner about whether or not you’d like to hire a wedding planner.

Wedding planners are skilled professionals who have the time, knowledge and experience needed to plan a fabulous wedding that matches exactly what you’re looking for. They have connections and relationships, as well as great negotiating skills to secure dates and grab bargains. They can be an invaluable asset to you, especially if you’re not sure how much time you’ll have to spare.

The only downside is, wedding planners can be expensive. The average cost of a wedding planner in the UK is £1,891, which is roughly 10% of the average cost of wedding. This may sound like a lot, especially if you’re already spending close to 20 grand, but wedding planners know all the tricks of the trade to save couples money. They may even save you more money than their fee, which can make them absolutely worth the cost.

Because of that, if you are going to hire a wedding planner, you need to make the call early on. If you hire them at some point down the line, after you’ve already signed contracts and paid deposits, then you won’t get the full value that they could bring.

So, if you are keen to take advantage of a wedding planner’s time and expertise, make sure you hire them at the start of your wedding planning journey so you get the most value.

How to plan your wedding in 31 steps

Planning a wedding can be a long and tiring, but also super fun and rewarding, experience. There’s so much to remember, that it’s hard to know where to start. Do you jump straight in and find your venue? Do you set your date first? Or perhaps something else?

Here at Bridebook, we’ve helped more than two million couples plan their perfect wedding, so we know a thing or two about what to do, when to do it, and where to start. So, follow the 31 steps below so you can plan your big day in style and have the wedding you’ve always envisioned in your head.

1. Set your maximum budget

It’s no secret that weddings are expensive, and if you don’t watch what you spend things can very quickly spiral out of control. As we’ve already highlighted, weddings in the UK cost an average of £19,184, which is a rather big chunk of change. But, many couples spend far less than this – and some spend far more. Either way, it’s important to know how much budget you have to play with so you can keep on top of your finances.

Before you spend a penny on your wedding, you must must must work out your budget. Only then will you know the size, scale and scope you can go for. To do this, you can use our handy wedding budget tool, which you can use to look at your own finances and how they align with the hopes you have for your wedding. Only once you have an accurate idea about how much money you have to spend on your wedding can you start to make plans – otherwise you risk overspending and getting yourself into a tricky situation.

That being said, there are ways to cut costs so you can still have the wedding of your dreams even with a limited budget. Read our ultimate guide to saving money on your wedding for more information.

2. Speak to family about help paying for your wedding

As part of working out your total wedding budget, if you plan on asking family for help paying for your wedding you’ll want to speak to them at the start of the process. If this is something you’d like to do, know that you’re not alone – our 2023 Wedding Report found that a third of couples ask family for help paying for this and that. But, to make sure you and your family are on the same page, it’s something you’ll need to be open and honest about as soon as possible.

Not only does it give your family time to save money if they need to, it also ensures you can factor it into your budget. This makes managing your money much easier. If you’re not sure how to broach this tricky subject with your loved ones, read our blog post on how to ask your parents for help paying for your wedding.

3. Think about your ideal wedding date

One of the most common questions you’ll get as an engaged couple is when’s the big day? or have you set yourself a date yet? It’s all asked out of love, of course, because everyone’s so excited for you! But, it’s also one of the most important decisions you’ll make – without a date, you can’t book all the exciting things that will make up your wedding.

You might decide to get married on a specific date, such as the anniversary of when you met. Or, you might let cost be a deciding factor, with our 2023 Wedding Report revealing that Tuesdays in winter are among the cheapest dates for a wedding. Or, you might let availability decide, such as if your favourite venue only has certain dates left to book.

Whenever you choose to get married, once you have your date set in stone you can begin planning everything else around it.

4. Think about wedding styles, themes and colour schemes

Since the moment you got engaged, you’ve probably spent many hours watching videos, reading magazines, browsing Pinterest, scrolling through Instagram… we could go on. By this stage, you may have a few ideas about how you’d like your wedding to look and feel, but now’s the time to get serious. Sit down with your partner and discuss the styles, themes and colours you’d like to feature across your day. Once you have that, you can start getting more specific and research vendors who fit with your vision.

5. Consider buying wedding insurance

Weddings are expensive and involve bringing a lot of different vendors and professionals together. That also means there are a lot of moving parts that can potentially go wrong. They probably won’t, but there’s always that small chance.

So, before you spend any money, it’s recommended that you consider wedding insurance. However unlikely it is that something unexpected will happen, you’re dropping so much money on your wedding that it’s not worth the risk. Most wedding insurance policies are valid for 24 months, so if your wedding is less than two years away you’ll need to wait until your date falls within this timeframe.

6. Make a wedding checklist

Many weddings have a lot of crossover, so when it comes to planning there are a lot of similar steps – that’s what makes a guide like this one so accessible to couples with different aspirations for their wedding. But, you’ll no doubt have things you want that are unique to you on top of all the other stuff as well.

That’s why you need to put together a wedding checklist, otherwise, things risk getting overlooked, forgotten, pushed back, missed… and that can lead to frustrations and panic.

One easy and convenient way to put a checklist together is with our super useful wedding planning checklist tool, which you can access via desktop and take with you on your phone so you can add to it and check things off as you go. If you make sure everything’s on your list, you’ll know exactly what needs to be done and when so nothing gets left behind.

For more detailed information, read our guide to creating the ultimate wedding planning checklist.

7. Find your perfect venue

Browsing (and possibly even visiting) venues is no doubt something you’ve already been excitedly doing on the sly, but now you can dive right in. Your venue is usually the single biggest expense at your wedding, and is often one of the most competitive to find, which is why it’s important to do so early. After all, you can’t start booking other vendors until you know you have a venue secured for your date.

Once you’ve found your ideal venue, get your name on the booking form and pay your deposit to book it. And that’s when things will really start to feel real!

8. Start work on your guest list

Once you know the budget you have to play with and you’ve secured your venue, you can start to work out who you’d like to invite to your wedding. The bigger your budget, the more guests you’re likely to be in a position to invite. If you have a smaller budget, you’ll have to make some tough calls on who might not make the cut. Just make sure you invite everyone who came to your engagement party (if you had one) and anyone you want to be part of the wedding party… obviously.

To make the process easier and avoid any disagreements, read our post featuring 11 wedding guest list arguments all couples have (and how to resolve them).

9. Choose your wedding caterer

The food is often one of the highlights of any wedding for the guests (apart from watching their loved ones get married of course). It also means you get to have a little fun, do some research and perhaps even take part in a few tasting sessions. Creating a wedding menu is definitely not a job you’ll want to skip over!

With so much choice available out there, it can also be a tough decision. So, you’ll want to make a start early on in the planning process. This is especially important if you’re choosing a caterer who’s highly regarded or popular, so don’t delay.

10. Send out save-the-dates to your guests

With your date now set in stone, you can start telling people about your big day. If your wedding is still more than a year away, you can do this by sending save-the-dates to everyone on your guest list. This just makes sure that everyone keeps your wedding date free and they don’t book a holiday or agree to something else that day. You can have a lot of fun designing your save-the-dates, so let your creativity go wild – you can have anything from fridge magnets to coasters or anything else you can think of.

11. Hire your other vendors

Now that you have your venue and (hopefully) catering sorted, you can move on to the many other vendors who’ll come together to create the wedding of your dreams. This will likely include your:

Photographer
Videographer
Musicians and/or DJ
Entertainment
Florist
Transportation
Cake maker
Hair and beauty artist (including for a trial)

And more! Much like with the venue and caterer, any popular and in-demand suppliers will be snapped up for your date pretty quickly, so if there’s someone you know you’d love to hire for your wedding then make sure you get in there as quickly as you can.

12. Make sure there’s accommodation for your guests

If you’re getting married somewhere with accommodation, like a hotel, it’s usually standard practice for the hotel to block out a certain number of rooms that only your guests can book. Keep in regular contact with them to make sure you always have rooms available, so that when your initial block of rooms is filled more become available. If you’re getting married in a hotel with a limited number of rooms, they may automatically reserve every room for your wedding, but you’ll want to double-check this with them.

13. Choose your wedding dress

Finding your perfect wedding dress is no mean feat, which is why you should give yourself plenty of time. On top of that, even when you do find the perfect dress, you’ll probably need to arrange for alterations at least once.

If you’re choosing a dress off the rack, you can probably turn things around quite quickly. If you’re having a dress made by a seamstress, however, there’ll likely be a lengthy wait – as much as six months or more – especially if you choose a design that’s complex or intricate.

If you’re on the hunt for a dress but conscious about how much you might spend, read our blog post on how to save money on a wedding dress.

14. Build a wedding website (if you’ve chosen to have one)

A wedding website is a handy tool to have, as it works as a great resource so your guests can RSVP, view your gift register and find out more about the date, time and place of your wedding.

For more information, read the guest post from Squarespace on our blog about how to create the perfect wedding website.

15. Create a gift register

Your guests will be keen to congratulate you on your marriage by giving you a little something. The trouble is, if you don’t have a gift register then some guests might accidentally double (or triple) up. A gift register can prevent this from happening and also means you’re more likely to end up with gifts you want or need. Or, if you don’t need anything, you could simply ask for money – that’s ok too. A gift register just tells your guests what they need to know if they want to get you something. It’s not an urgent step when planning your wedding, but if you start it early enough you can keep adding to it as you realise there’s something you might like.

For a little inspiration on where to get started, read our 50 wedding gift list ideas for every budget.

16. Shop for your bridesmaids’ dresses

With your wedding dress bought (or at the very least ordered), you can start browsing for dresses the rest of your squad will wear. You’ll want to make sure they tie in nicely with your theme, colour scheme and your own outfits so they all complement each other. This might mean a long search, or you might get lucky and find something quickly – hope for the latter but plan for the former.

Who pays for the dresses can be a tricky subject, so it’s worth discussing this with your bridesmaids before you head out dress shopping. For more information, read our post on what your bridesmaids should and shouldn’t pay for.

17. Book the rehearsal dinner venue (if you’re having one)

Not many couples in the UK choose to have a rehearsal dinner, but it’s slowly becoming a popular trend. If you’ve decided to have a rehearsal dinner, make sure you book a venue that’s large enough in plenty of time. Like with the wedding itself, the more guests you want to invite, the more challenging you’ll find it to secure a venue, especially if you leave it quite late.

18. Choose your suit and buy your shoes

Just like with the dress, the search for the perfect suit or tuxedo can also take some time. Even if you don’t consider yourself picky, finding a suit that fits your requirements might take a fair few visits to a fair few shops. All we’re saying is, don’t leave it too late.

As part of this, find yourself a nice pair of shoes. You’ll spend a lot of your wedding day on your feet, so bear this in mind when trying them on!

19. Make arrangements for things you want to hire

Did you know you can hire things for your wedding as a great way to save money? If you have a tight budget, or you simply want to save a few bob so you can spend it elsewhere, you can hire anything from suits to a marquee. Just make sure you reserve what you want to hire in plenty of time, as they can go fast – especially around the busy wedding season.

Also, make sure you pay close attention to the return date, because if you miss it you might end up with some hefty fees!

20. Hire an officiant, registrar or celebrant (if you’re having one)

If you’re having a religious ceremony, you’ll likely know who’s going to officiate your wedding, as it’s something you’ll have discussed at the time you booked it with the leader of your local place of worship. However, with some religious ceremonies (and some other types of ceremonies as well) it may be down to you to hire a registrar to make sure your marriage is legally binding. If so, speak to your local register office to get the ball rolling on this (which will cost you a small fee).

A great way to add a huge amount of personalisation to your wedding ceremony is through hiring a celebrant, which you’ll also want to arrange around the same time if this is something you’ve chosen to do. Remember, you can have a registrar officiate your wedding without a celebrant, but you can’t have a celebrant officiate your wedding without a registrar. It’s all to do with very serious legal reasons, you see.

21. Finalise, print (or write) and send your invitations

You should now be in a great position to send out your wedding invitations. The main information to include on your invitations are the date, time and location, but couples often choose to include information on the food, wedding website and gift register (if they have them), and any other relevant details.

With that, you can print or write your invitations and pop them in the post.

22. Buy your wedding rings

If you’re exchanging wedding rings at your wedding ceremony, don’t leave it too late to buy them. Yes, many couples choose to go with the good ol’ reliable wedding band, but it can sometimes be a little more complicated than that. You also need to factor in the time it’ll take to have them resized if necessary.

For a little inspo, read our guide to choosing the right wedding ring for you.

23. Work out the groomsmen, page boy and flower girl’s attire

If you’re buying the outfits that your groomsmen, page boy and flower girl will wear, incorporate them into your wedding shopping trips with several months to spare. They might not seem quite as important as your or your bridesmaids’ outfits, but they’re still key considerations that take time.

24. Design your wedding favours

As a gesture of thanks for your guests coming to your wedding, you might want to give them a token gift which you leave on the table ahead of the wedding breakfast. It’s another way for you to get as creative as you can, but also not spend too much money. Something as small as a pack of sweets is usually fine – your guests won’t be expecting much.

For a few suggestions, read our post featuring 29 ideas for wedding favours.

25. Choose your hymns and/or readings

Now that your wedding’s fast approaching, you’ll want to iron out some of the details of your ceremony, such as the hymns and/or readings you’d like to be included. If you’re having a registry office wedding ceremony, you can’t include any references to God or religion, but in other types of wedding, you have free rein to include what you like, whether that’s a non-religious reading, or a traditional Bible reading.

If you’re asking a friend or family member to perform a reading, ask them at least a couple of months before the wedding, so they can prepare themselves and maybe even have a practice run or two.

26. Write your wedding vows (if you’ve chosen to write them)

Another tough call you’ll have to make about your ceremony is what type of vows you’ll want to include. Every wedding in the UK has to include contracting and declaratory words, but unless you’re bound by tradition in a religious ceremony, you usually have flexibility when it comes to your vows.

If you’re writing your own vows, make a start on them with at least a few weeks to go, so you have plenty of time to add to them, cut from them and make general tweaks and changes. Getting exactly how you feel down on paper can actually be harder than it sounds.

If you don’t want to write your own vows, you may choose to memorise them, repeat them from the officiant, or simply say the famous words, I do. Speak to your officiant to discuss your options in more detail to help you decide which is right for you.

27. Choose gifts for your wedding party

Many couples choose to give members of the wedding party gifts as a sign of appreciation for playing a role in their wedding ceremony. It’s common for couples to give gifts to the bride and groom’s mums as well as the bridesmaids and maid of honour. Some couples also choose to give a little something to the page boy, flower girl, best man and groomsmen. If you choose to give them something, it doesn’t have to be much – some flowers or a bottle of wine will do (apart from the page boy and flower girl, of course – you might be best off getting them a toy instead).

Gifts don’t need to be custom or bespoke, so can be picked up relatively late in your wedding planning journey.

28. Finalise your wedding playlist

A great way to personalise your wedding is through your choice of music. By now you should have hired all the musicians and/or DJs you’ll have performing at your wedding, but as the big day approaches you can make a few decisions about the specific music you’d like them to play.

From the music at the ceremony to the cheesy disco tracks you’ll be throwing shapes to late into the night, make sure you let the appropriate vendors and professionals know exactly what music you’d like them to play and when. You’ve no doubt got your first dance song already picked out!

29. Make sure the decor and stationery are ready

To match your theme, style and colour scheme, you can fill your venues with decorations and stationery to make them align closer to your vision. This could be anything from huge floral centrepieces to the tiniest of napkin holders. If you want something at your wedding, make sure it’s ready by putting them together over time.

Popular items of decor and stationery include:

Pillow for the page boy
Basket and petals for the flower girls
Table numbers
Place names
Centrepieces
Guestbook
Cake stand
Cake topper
Welcome sign
Card or gift bag/box

30. Design your seating plan and write the name cards

Once you’ve received all your RSVPs (if you’re waiting on a few stragglers feel free to give them a nudge) you can finalise your seating plan. Once you’ve worked it all out, you can have it designed and printed so it’s ready to display at the venue.

At the same time, you can make a start on the name cards, or send them to a pro who can do it for you with some swish calligraphy skills.

31. Make sure you have a plan B in place

Just like how we mentioned right at the start of this list that things might go wrong (it’s not likely, but it might)? Well, as well as securing wedding insurance, you might want to think up a plan B, particularly for any plans that might come with a little risk. For example, if you plan to hold the ceremony outside, even if your wedding takes place in the middle of July, you’ll want to have a plan B in place in the event a storm rolls in right at the wrong moment.

It’s always better to have a backup plan and not use it than it is to run around looking for a quick fix when you should be enjoying the build-up to your wedding.

What else do you need to plan ahead of your wedding?

Photo © Jamie Ellis Photography | See their Bridebook profile

Remember that checklist we encouraged you to make? Now’s the time to consult that and make sure everything specific to you has been covered. You can use our handy wedding checklist tool and it’ll do a lot of the work for you.

Not that it’s strictly part of planning a wedding, but many couples like to enjoy a night or two away from their partners during the buildup to the wedding for a stag and/or hen do. This can be anything that your heart (and budget) allows. It could be anything from a night out clubbing to a weekend off in Europe. It could even be a night in playing board games – whatever floats your boat (you could also spend it on a boat!).

Similarly, a popular non-negotiable for couples is a honeymoon. Our 2023 Wedding Report found that the average amount spent on a honeymoon is £4,200, so among the hustle and bustle of planning your wedding, you might want to set some time aside to think about whether you’d like to go away after the wedding for a honeymoon. Or, perhaps a minimoon will be a little kinder to your budget, followed by a honeymoon a few months later?

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Happy Planning!

How to Write Wedding Vows: Structure, Examples and Top Tips

Delivering your wedding vows is one of the most beautiful and intimate moments of your life. You’re stood up there with the love of your life, telling all your family and friends just how special they are to you — what could be more magical?

Writing your own wedding vows adds an extra level of meaning and personalisation to this already magical moment. It’s a chance to share your special memories, inside jokes, and the promises you intend to keep as a married couple.

If you’re here, you’re probably wondering how to write marriage vows and craft a truly memorable moment. Let us guide you through how to write personalised wedding vows and how to avoid common pitfalls, and get inspired by our examples of great wedding vows.

What are wedding vows?

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Wedding vows are the promises and commitments made to your partner during your wedding ceremony. They are read aloud and usually last between 2 and 3 minutes per reader, totaling a maximum of 6 minutes.

The groom traditionally reads his vows first, followed by the bride. However, you can read the vows in whatever order you’d like. Try mixing it up for a same-gender, gender-neutral, or other non-traditional wedding service.

How do I write wedding vows?

How to Write Wedding Vows — Follow these steps to write your wedding vows

Writing your wedding vows can be nerve-wracking. We get it — it’s a big moment, and you want to get it right. They are the promises that will shape your marriage, and understandably, you want them to be heartfelt, meaningful, and reflective of the commitment you’re making to your partner.

With all this in mind, the most important thing is that you speak from the heart. Don’t be afraid to share a special story, a personal moment, or a quirky detail that showcases your love. Let’s delve a little deeper into the steps you should take when writing your wedding vows.

Step 1 – Brainstorm your ideas

The first step is to brainstorm. Grab a cup of tea, sit down together, and let the nostalgia flow. Try making a spider diagram of your favourite memories, inside jokes, and quirks that define your relationship. Think about the moments that made you laugh uncontrollably or the challenges you conquered side by side. These will make the perfect base for your wedding vows.

Step 2 – Draw on inspirations

If you’re feeling stuck or want your vows to be more traditional, consider drawing on inspiration from classic films, your favourite books or, if you’re religious, from the Bible. Quotes from these sources can give you a good jumping-off point and set the tone for your wedding vows. For example, For something poetic and beautiful, look to quotes from your favourite novel. If you’re aiming for heartwarming and timeless, try turning to your favourite romantic film. For something traditional, try a Bible verse.

Step 3 – Consider the structure

The next step is to consider the structure of your vows. Like any good story, your vows should have a beginning, a middle, and an end. Having these three distinct sections to your vows will enhance the structure and help you feel more confident.

The beginning of your vows should consist of special memories and anecdotes from your relationship, or even a reflection on the day so far. The middle should then consist of the traits that make your relationships so special, and the end should include the promises you are making to your new spouse.

Step 4 – Write your vows

Once you’ve planned and prepped what you want to say, it’s time to put pen to paper and actually write your vows. Writing your vows can be difficult. However, bear in mind this is only the first draft, and the most important part of a first draft is that it exists. It doesn’t need to be poetic or magical — this comes with the edits. Instead, write down all the thoughts, feelings, and promises that come to mind. You can refine it at a later stage.

Take regular breaks, keep coming back to your inspirations, and don’t be too hard on yourself.

Step 5 – Edit and refine

Once written, take a break from your vows. Spend a few days (or even a week!) not thinking about them. This will help you come back to them with a fresh mind and a new perspective.

Once this time has passed, you can start editing. Cut any superfluous words and refine your ideas. This is your chance to polish your words and make them resonate even more profoundly.

You may need to edit your vows a few times before you’re happy with them. This doesn’t mean they’re bad — it just means you’re committed to making them the absolute best reflection of your feelings. Editing is a natural part of the creative process, and your vows deserve the time and attention to make them the best that they can be.

Step 6 – Practise makes perfect

Once you’re happy with the structure and content of your vows, it’s time to practise, practise, practise. Read your vows to a trusted friend, in the mirror, and even record yourself speaking them for review later.

Take any feedback you’re given. Feedback can help you refine your delivery and ensure that your words land as you intended.

Suggested wedding vow structure

Every good love story should have a beginning, a middle, and an eventual end. We recommend this is the structure you use with your wedding vows.

The beginning

The beginning should highlight any special memories or anecdotes you share with your partner. Why not start at the very beginning with the story of how you met? Was it love at first sight, friends to lovers, or something different? Take your guests on the journey of the special moment you met and describe how you felt after your first date. Your guests will love it, as will your partner.

The middle

The body of your vows should include what makes your relationship so special. For example, the traits you value in your partner, what makes them unique, and how much you appreciate them. Don’t be afraid to lay it on thick — that’s what vows are for, after all!

The end

The end of your vows should include the specific promises you are making to your new spouse. Traditional vows promise to love, honour, and obey in sickness and in health. However, this may not feel appropriate for you.

Instead, you could promise to grow in faith with one another, or to support them through life’s twists and turns. You could promise to love them in spite of their bed-head, through heck and high water, or to be their unwavering partner in crime.

The beauty of hand-written vows is they can be as unique as your relationship. Feel free to take creative liberties and make promises that will speak to you and your partner.

Common challenges for writing your own wedding vows

We know writing your wedding vows can be tricky. Check out our handy solutions to a few common problems.

How to start wedding vows

There are a few ways you can start your wedding vows. We recommend:

Your partner’s name. Starting with your partner’s name or ‘My love” is a simple but effective start.
A short quote. Using a short quote from a shared favourite song, poem, or book is another great way to open your vows. It will set the tone for the vows and connect your promises to something meaningful that you both love.
A declaration. Starting with a declaration like “This is the best day of my life”, or “I feel like the luckiest person in the world to be stood up here with you” will capture the significance of the moment and set the tone for the vows that follow.

When to write wedding vows

We recommend starting your wedding vows around two weeks before the big day. This way, you leave long enough for writing, revisions, and practising without feeling rushed or stressed.

How to write personal vows

If your vows are feeling a little generic or lacking a personal touch, try using the following techniques:

Use inside jokes. All couples have special inside jokes. Sometimes, all it takes is a word or a glance to have you both in hysterics. Try using that word or turn of phrase in your vows. It will create a moment of intimacy between you and your partner which everyone will be able to see.
Use song lyrics. If you have a special song or lyrics that hold sentimental value to you both, consider incorporating those into your vows. If the song is especially meaningful, for example, it’s going to be your first dance, you could use these lyrics as inspiration for the body of the vows.
Make it about your partner. If you’re really stuck, focusing the vows on your partner is always a winner. Explain how special they are to you, how grateful you are that they’re in your life, and the adventures you’ve shared together.

Inspiration for writing your own wedding vows

If you’re feeling stuck, check out our articles on inspiring quotes, poems, or Bible verses.

100+ inspiring love quotes

You can find love quotes in film, TV, literature, music, and more. You’re sure to find something that fits the bill with our list of over 100 inspiring love quotes.

15 romantic love poems

If you’re struggling to write your own wedding vows, consider using a love poem to express how you feel. Check out our article featuring 15 romantic and inspiring love poems for some guidance!

25 Bible verses for a religious ceremony

Using Bible verses in your wedding vows is a great way to inject traditional values and timeless love into your ceremony. You’re sure to find something that resonates in our list of 25 best Bible readings for your wedding ceremony.

Top examples of great wedding vows

Photo © Simon Dewey Photography | See their Bridebook profile

Beginning with your unique love story: “From the moment I first laid eyes on you, I knew my life was about to change in the most incredible way. Our story began with a glance, turned into laughter, and unfolded into a beautiful journey of love. Today, in front of our loved ones, I promise to cherish every chapter of our tale, knowing that with you, each page is more enchanting than the last.”
Embracing quirks and imperfections: “To my partner in crime, my fellow adventurer, and the one who loves me even on my ‘bed-head’ days, I stand before you with all my quirks and imperfections. I promise to cherish the laughter in our kitchen dance parties and to be the instigator of countless more. Through every twist and turn, I vow to love you, not just for richer or poorer, but for the unique, wonderful soul that you are.”
Drawing inspiration from a shared song: “As we stand here today, I am reminded of the melody that became the soundtrack of our love. Just as our favourite song plays on, I promise to dance through life with you, finding joy in every note. Together, we’ll create a symphony of love that echoes through the years, always in tune, always harmonious.”
Incorporating your shared experiences: “In the tapestry of our journey, there are threads woven with shared experiences, challenges conquered side by side, and moments that defined ‘us.’ I promise to honour our unique connection, to appreciate the traits that make you extraordinary, and to celebrate the love that has grown stronger with every step we’ve taken together.”
Weaving in humour and inside jokes: “My love, if life is a grand comedy, then you are my favourite punchline. In the laughter we’ve shared and the inside jokes that only we understand, I find the heartbeat of our relationship. Today, I vow to keep the humour alive, to find joy in the simple moments, and to be the reason behind that twinkle in your eye.”
Focusing on shared faith: “In the journey of life, I promise to walk hand in hand with you, growing in faith and love. Through every sunrise and sunset, I commit to being your unwavering partner, finding strength in our shared beliefs, and embracing the divine love that brought us together.”
Expressing gratitude and appreciation: “You are my greatest gift, my partner in adventure, and the one who has turned ordinary moments into extraordinary memories. Today, I express my gratitude for the love you’ve poured into my life. I promise to be your constant supporter, your confidant, and your biggest fan in all the adventures yet to come.”
Reflecting your journey together: “From the first date that set our hearts racing to the challenges that made us stronger, our journey together has been nothing short of magical. Today, I stand before you, grateful for every step we’ve taken. I promise to continue growing with you, facing life’s twists and turns, and savouring the beauty of a love that has stood the test of time.”
Making specific, personal promises: “I promise to be the one who makes your morning tea, a cup filled not just with warmth but with love. I vow to be your partner in our kitchen dance parties, initiating joy with every beat. Through every sunrise and sunset, through sickness and health, I pledge to be the constant in your life, your anchor in the storms, and your unwavering source of love.”
Ending with a declaration of love: “In this moment, surrounded by the ones we hold dear, I declare that this is the best day of my life. I feel like the luckiest person in the world to stand here with you. Today, I promise to cherish, to adore, and to love you through all the days of our lives, for you are my heart, my love, and my forever.”

Top tips for writing your own wedding vows

Photo © Philtography | See their Bridebook profile

Check out our top tips for how to write marriage vows.

Start early

Writing your own wedding vows can be tricky. It’s important you leave enough time for writing, editing, and practising. We recommend allowing at least two weeks. However, if you’re a bit of a perfectionist or you struggle with your words, you may want to leave even longer.

Make your vows personal to you

The most important thing about your wedding vows is that they speak to your unique love story. Even the most beautifully written vows don’t mean anything if they aren’t personal to you and your partner.

Consider what makes your relationship special. Reflect on the inside jokes, shared experiences, and challenges you’ve shared over the years. Weaving these moments throughout your vows will add a personal touch and show your partner how much they mean to you.

Be specific

There’s nothing worse than a woolly vow. Be specific in your promises. If you promise to make your new spouse a cup of tea every morning — say that. If you’re promising to be the instigator of every Friday night kitchen dance party —say that. If you’re promising to love them even when they’re old and grey, or even the classic for richer or for poorer — say that. The specificity will add depth to your vows and make you sound confident in your decision to marry your partner.

Practise makes perfect

As with wedding speeches, practise always makes perfect. Practise reading your vows in the mirror or to a trusted friend. Take any feedback on board to help you refine your delivery and boost your confidence.

The bottom line on writing your own wedding vows

Photo © The Snapper | See their Bridebook profile

Writing your own wedding vows can be a challenge, especially if you’re not sure where to begin or how to put your feelings into words. However, it’s a challenge worth facing.

Reciting your wedding vows is one of the most memorable moments of your life. Our top tips are to be specific about your promises, leave plenty of time for revisions and practise, and focus on including inside jokes and special memories. This will help keep your guests engaged and show your partner exactly how much they mean to you on your big day.

Once you’ve nailed your wedding vows, it’s time to move on to writing your wedding speech. Check out our post on wedding speech examples to help you craft the perfect wedding speech.

FAQs on writing personalised wedding vows

Can you say your own vows in a Catholic wedding?

Catholic wedding ceremonies usually ask that the bride and groom stick to traditional wedding vows. However, depending on how liberal your priest is, you may be able to change the wording of a few lines. Hey, there’s no harm in asking, right?

Can you say your own vows in a church wedding?

Yes, you can say your own vows in a church wedding. It’s a good idea to run them past your celebrant or priest first to make sure they’re in line with the traditions and guidelines of the church.

What are the 3 promises of marriage?

For grooms, the 3 promises of marriage are to “love, cherish, and worship” their wife in traditional wedding ceremonies. Brides must promise to “love, cherish, and obey” their husbands.

Happy Planning!

How to Get Married: The Ultimate Step-By-Step Guide

Getting married is a long process, but it’s also fun and incredibly rewarding. From the moment you get engaged, you’ll think about venues, food, attire, entertainers, music, cakes, vows, transport… the list goes on.

But how does it all work? With so much to figure out, where’s the right place to start? Who do you speak to first? And how do you keep on top of everything so nothing gets forgotten and your wedding goes ahead exactly as you dreamed it would? It’s also important to remember that, as well as being a great gesture is love, getting married is also a legal process – which means there are critical steps to follow if you want to make sure everything is by the book.

But, organising your wedding doesn’t need to be a complicated process, so long as you know what you have to do and how you should go about doing it. That’s where we come in! So, in this guide, we’ll tell you all about how to get married and provide you with the steps to follow so nothing gets left behind. We’ll cover the whats, whens, whys, wheres and hows, so all you need to worry about is making those all-important decisions.

What are the main wedding legalities?

How to navigate the process of getting married

We’ve got a whole post dedicated to which wedding legalities each ceremony requires, whether civil or religious, in terms of both the legal documents required and the religious proceedings. Whatever venue you’re getting married in, whether registry office, place of worship, restaurant or outdoor space, there are certain non-negotiables: giving notice, hiring a registrar, saying your vows, and enlisting two people to witness the all-important signing of the register.

What are the stages to getting married?

When it comes to just getting married in the legal sense, there are only a few simple steps to be taken, which we’ve summarised below. The process is the same for both heterosexual and same-sex weddings, and regardless of whether it’s your first or fiftieth marriage or anything in between!

Choose your wedding date and venue
Give notice to marry
Book your registrar
Choose your vows
Choose two people to be witnesses
Finalise your plans and payments
Attend your wedding ceremony

We’ve set out those steps in the handy quick reference infographic above.

However, for most couples, the journey from getting engaged to saying ‘I do’ is a little more complex, and will involve planning a fabulous wedding celebration alongside sorting out the essential legalities. Follow our comprehensive step-by-step guide so you don’t miss a thing, and can get married with peace of mind.

1. Start with the perfect proposal

Of course, every marriage starts with a proposal. How you do that is entirely up to you. Will you make a huge romantic gesture, like getting down on one knee at midnight for the perfect New Year’s Eve proposal as fireworks explode, or go for something a little more intimate, like at your favourite woodland spot or as you finish a romantic meal?

However you choose to propose, just make sure it’s true to you and your relationship, paying close attention to what you think your partner will appreciate.

For some inspiration, read our article featuring 15 romantic proposal ideas.

2. Check your eligibility to marry

From the moment you get engaged, it’s easy to get excited and rush straight into planning your wedding. But, unless you’re especially keen to get married on a specific date, try not to go too hard too fast. Enjoy your new-found status as an engaged couple and ease into wedding planning gently. Why not take a trip to celebrate your amazing news? Or, throw an engagement party so you can celebrate while surrounded by your loved ones.

For more information on what to do after you bag yourself a fiance, read our step-by-step guide featuring 20 things to do after you get engaged.

Once you’ve thoroughly celebrated your engagement, you’ll need to check your eligibility to get married, as there are legal rules around this in the UK. You can get married or form a civil partnership in England and Wales if you are:

Aged 18 or over (anyone under this age will require parental permission).
Not already married or in a civil partnership
Not closely related to each other
A UK citizen or have indefinite leave to remain in the UK (if you or your partner are from outside the UK or Ireland, you might need to apply for a visa to get married in the UK)

3. Work out your budget

Every couple who gets married has to work out their budget. Whether you have a small budget, a modest budget, or a money’s-no-object budget, you still need to know exactly how much you have to spend. After all, there’s a huge difference between the cost of a registry office wedding and a 200-guest, castle-hosted wedding extravaganza.

It’s not the most glorious part of the wedding-planning process, but it’s one of the most important. Look at your current finances, along with the money you think you can save between now and your ideal wedding date. Only when you’ve got an accurate idea of the money you have to spend can you start properly looking at venues and other vendors. To help you work things out, use our handy wedding budget calculator.

For more information, read our ultimate wedding budget breakdown.

4. Talk to your parents about money

Our 2023 UK Wedding Report found that two-thirds of couples ask family for help paying for their wedding – so there’s absolutely nothing wrong with it. But, if you do plan on speaking to family and asking them to pay for the venue or a couple of vendors, it’s important to do so early. That way, you’ll know what they can commit to and won’t have to make any assumptions or guesses, which can complicate things if they don’t turn out how you’d hoped.

For tips on how to broach the subject, read our guide on how to ask your parents for help paying for your wedding.

5. Think about your wedding ceremony

You should decide early on what type of wedding ceremony you’d like to have. If you have religious beliefs, you might prefer to have a Catholic wedding ceremony or Hindu wedding ceremony. If not, you could have a non-denominational wedding ceremony or traditional wedding ceremony.

If you have a strict budget or you’re not interested in having a big wedding, you may choose to have a registry office wedding ceremony instead.

The type of ceremony you go for depends entirely on your beliefs, preferences and budget. Remember, there’s no right or wrong answer – only what’s right for you.

To find out more about the different types of wedding ceremonies, read our ultimate wedding ceremony guide and ultimate wedding ceremony order guide.

6. Think about your wedding breakfast and evening reception

With your budget more or less set, you’ll also be in a great position to decide whether you’d like to have a wedding breakfast, including a three- or four-course meal, or head straight into the evening reception. Or, you may choose to have neither – or both. Again, it all depends on your budget and what your perfect wedding day looks like.

Once you know what you’d like out of your big day, you can start thinking about planning it!

7. Choose your wedding date

There are a thousand different reasons why you might choose to have your wedding on a particular date. Perhaps you’d like to choose a date for symbolic reasons, like the date you first met. Or, maybe it’s for religious or spiritual reasons. Or, maybe it’s even for budgeting reasons – for example, Tuesday is the cheapest day of the week to get married.

Once you have a date in mind, you can start looking at venues. But, if you find the perfect venue and it’s within your budget, just be prepared to negotiate or have a little wiggle room. If it’s a popular wedding venue, there’s every chance other couples will have got there first and your chosen date might not be available.

For more information, read our article on how to pick your wedding date.

8. Decide whether you want to hire a wedding planner

Before you book your venue or throw down a deposit on a single vendor, make sure you and your partner have decided whether or not you’d like to hire a wedding planner.

Wedding planners can be rather pricey – around 10% of your overall wedding budget. But, the cost is often more than worth it, thanks to their ability to spend time searching and negotiating, as well as the relationships they’ve already established thanks to years of working with popular venues and vendors within the industry.

Half the fun of getting married is planning your wedding, but if you don’t have the time, patience or inclination, a wedding planner can make it a heck of a lot easier. Just make sure you decide early on if it’s the right choice for you, because you’ll only see their true value if you haven’t already booked everything beforehand.

9. Think about your theme and colour scheme

As part of the vision you have for your wedding, before making any kind of bookings you’ll need to have a clear idea of your theme and colour scheme. That could be something rustic and natural, sleek and modern, floral and elegant… you might even have something super unique and massively personal to you, like a book theme or subtly nerdy fantasy theme. The theme and colours you decide on can then have a huge influence over the venue, decor, stationery, food and more.

10. Put your wedding checklist together

Only you (or your wedding planner if you have one) will know exactly what you want from your wedding, from vendors to colour schemes and everything in between. But even then, with so many things to keep on top of, there’s every chance that one or two things will get left behind, or – worst case scenario – forgotten about completely.

That’s why it’s important to put together a wedding checklist early, which you can add to and check off as you go. To make things easier, we have a wedding planning checklist tool that you can access for free and make changes to whenever you need. And for some inspiration for what you might want to include on your checklist and when you might want to aim for checking it off, read our ultimate wedding planning checklist guide.

11. Be open and honest with each other

A big part of getting married is always being open and honest with your partner. Agree to talk to each other about everything and anything, no matter how big or small they might be. Like with a marriage, wedding planning is also about communication, so make sure you do plenty of it. It’s a fun process, but it’s also long and might get a little tricky at times – most of the time, though, it’s nothing that can’t be overcome with a few frank chats about what’s really on your mind.

12. Find your perfect venue

Once you know what you want from your wedding and how much money you have to help make that happen, you can start making reservations, signing agreements and throwing down money on deposits.

The biggest single cost of your entire wedding day will be your venue. And without it, the rest of your wedding day can’t happen, so make it your priority to find and secure your dream venue as soon as possible. Whether it’s a hotel, registry office, place of worship, stately home, castle, restaurant, golf club, garden or anything else you might think of, get your name down for your chosen date and secure it for yourselves. The more popular the venue is, the more likely it is that it’ll be snapped up quickly – sometimes, you might need to book it up to two years in advance.

If you’re choosing to get married in a place of worship, it’s unlikely that you’ll also be able to host the wedding breakfast and/or reception there, too. So, if you’re having multiple venues, you’ll need to make sure they’re all available on the same date.

For help making one of the trickiest decisions you’ll come across when getting married, read our article featuring our top 10 tips for choosing your wedding venue.

13. Put your guest list together

With your venue secured, you’ll know how many guests it can accommodate, so you can start thinking about your guest list. If you’ve gone with a smaller venue, this might mean making a few tough calls on those distant cousins you only see every few years, or restricting the number of plus ones you dish out.

For help and advice on this tricky topic, read our introduction to your wedding guest list.

14. Hire the rest of your vendors

It’s time to start researching, meeting with and booking the rest of your wedding day vendors, who’ll all come together to create the overall vision you have for your big day. These include:

Photographer
Videographer
Caterers
Cake makers
Entertainers
Musicians
Florists
Decor
Hair and beauty
Attire
Stationery
Celebrants
Transport
Marquee hire

And that’s not even all of them. Make sure you leave yourself with plenty of time, because you’re going to be browsing a lot of wedding supplier profiles, sending a lot of messages, and meeting with a lot of people.

15. Choose your wedding attire

Many couples choose to get married in traditional wedding attire, whether it be a suit, bridal gown or something specific to their culture or background. But, you might choose something else that’s in keeping with where you’re getting married and the theme. For example, if you’re getting married in the middle of a forest, a bridal gown with a long train might not be the best choice – just think of all the leaves and twigs!

16. Give notice to marry

When there’s less than a year to go until your wedding, another critical stage must be met, which is when you and your partner give notice that you intend to get married. To do this, you must speak to your local register office and sign a statement, which is done at least 28 days before your wedding day, but no more than 365 days ahead of your big day.

Make sure both you and your partner go to the register office in person, and take with you a valid form of ID and proof of address. You’ll also need information related to the date, time and location of your wedding. If you’ve been married before, you’ll also need to provide evidence of your divorce or your former partner’s death certificate.

There is a small fee for giving notice, which can differ between different local authorities, but is generally around £35 per person.

17. Book your registrar

In the UK, religious weddings aren’t legally recognised unless a registrar is present. If there isn’t one, then your marriage won’t be bound by law. Many places of worship have a registrar to make sure your marriage follows the correct legal processes, but some may not, and if this is the case then you’ll need to book the registrar as well.

Many religious wedding ceremonies follow a set structure or contain cultural or religious rituals and traditions, so it might not be possible for you to have a registrar there on the day. If you’re not sure if this applies to your ceremony, speak to the head of your place of worship or the religious leader who’ll be officiating the ceremony. It may be that you’ll have to visit a registry office around a week or so before the religious ceremony (along with two witnesses) to have a small, private civil ceremony to ensure your marriage is legally binding. Some couples also choose to do this after the religious ceremony.

18. Choose your vows

As well as being a promise to your partner and a hugely symbolic gesture, a wedding ceremony is also a legal process. That means, like with any legal process, there are certain steps that must be followed – if they’re not, your marriage won’t be valid.

There are two crucial parts to the words you say at your wedding: the declaratory words and the contracting words.

The declaratory words tell the registrar, witnesses and guests that you don’t know of any reason why you can’t legally get married. The contracting words are the words you speak or agree to that finalise your marriage – a popular response to the contracting words are I do.

But, if the type of ceremony you’ve chosen allows for personalisation, you may choose to write your own vows. Writing your own vows can be tough, but the only person who can express how you truly feel is… well, you. If you feel confident enough, this may be something you choose to do, but if it’s not, that’s fine too. There’s no right or wrong option.

19. Choose two people to be witnesses

We’ve already touched on this, but as part of the legal process, you need to have two adult witnesses at your wedding who are happy to sign the marriage register to say they were there to witness the two of you get married.

It’s a symbolic gesture and super easy to do, but it’s not something you’ll want to spring on someone the morning of the wedding, so make sure you ask them in plenty of time. The only prerequisites are that they must be capable of understanding what’s taking place, which also means they have to have a solid understanding of English.

20. Book your dream honeymoon

Whether it’s immediately after the wedding or a few months down the line, a honeymoon is a non-negotiable for the majority of couples. If it’s something you plan to do a couple of days after the wedding and your budget allows for it, make sure you don’t book it too late. Yes, it’s another cost, but you’ll avoid possible disappointment if you get it booked sooner rather than later.

21. Finalise your wedding plans and payments

Use your wedding planning checklist tool to track invoices and payments so you don’t miss any deadlines. The last thing you want during the last few remaining weeks and days before your wedding is for a vendor to cancel your booking because you forgot to pay your final invoice.

Just like Santa Claus, you’ll want to check your list twice (or even three or four times), so nothing gets forgotten or overlooked.

22. Enjoy the build-up to your marriage

Planning your wedding is a lot of work, and with so many things to keep on top of, you might feel a little stressed or under pressure at times. But, it’s important to savour the moment and enjoy yourself. You’re probably never going to throw a party of quite the same magnitude again, so make sure you take a little time for yourself, and lap up the love and attention you’ll get from your family and friends.

23. Attend your wedding ceremony

By the day of the wedding, there should be nothing else left to organise, and the professionals you’ve hired to help make your day special will know exactly what to do.

The most important part of the day is the ceremony itself, specifically the declaratory and contracting words. Don’t be tempted to say ‘no’ as a joke – it’s a legal declaration so you have to follow the instructions given to you by the registrar if you want everything to go ahead and be valid.

Then, once you’ve signed your marriage certificate (along with the registrar and witnesses), everything is done and you’ve suddenly bagged yourself a spouse!

That’s all there is to it, really. Your wedding day will go by as quick as a flash, so take plenty of mental (and actual!) pictures and have fun.

24. Make your marriage known

Once you’re married, it’s time to enjoy your life as a newly married person! All the legal stuff is over and done with, but if you changed your surname you’ll want to let businesses and authorities know about it, like your bank, insurance providers, DVLA and others. HMRC and other authorities will also need to know about your marriage as this can have an impact on the tax and benefits you pay and receive – so don’t delay and get yourself in hot water, because you might end up with an unexpected tax bill later down the line.

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The Best Non-Religious Readings for a Wedding Ceremony

Religious wedding ceremonies aren’t to everyone’s taste, and that’s perfectly fine! The most important thing about your wedding day is that it reflects your unique love story. If religion hasn’t played a part in that, you can easily substitute Bible readings and hymns with non-traditional wedding ceremony readings. These can include excerpts from your favourite books, films, music — and more.

This guide includes our 15 favourite readings from books and literature, from films and TV, and from songs and musicals. Plus, we share some handy tips on what makes a good non-religious wedding reading and how you can seamlessly weave them into your wedding day.

What is a non-religious wedding reading?

Non-religious wedding readings include handwritten speeches, paragraphs from popular books, quotes from films and TV, and lyrics from songs and musicals. They can work particularly well when incorporated into a non-denominational wedding ceremony (a ceremony that doesn’t specifically fit into its own category).

The beauty of non-religious or non-traditional wedding ceremony readings is that they can be customised to reflect your unique love story. For example, you could change the names of literary characters to yours and your partner’s. Alternatively, you could include lyrics from ‘your song’ or change the lyrics of a song to better fit your special day. The options are endless with non-religious wedding readings.

What makes a good non-religious wedding reading?

Photo © Karl Moriarty Photography | See their Bridebook profile

A good non-denominational wedding reading is one that means something to you and your partner. If you’re not sure whether something will hit the mark, try asking yourself:

Does this represent me and my partner?
Is it appropriate for my guests to hear?
If isn’t, can I change it to make it appropriate?
Does it tie into the promises I’m making to my partner on our wedding day?

If the answer to all or most of these questions is yes, then you’ve picked a good non-religious wedding reading! If there’s just something about the reading that doesn’t feel right, don’t be afraid to modify it to fit your needs. You can change sentences, names, places, and more until it feels like a perfect reflection of your love story.

When should I make a non-religious wedding reading?

Photo © Christopher Kitchen Photography | See their Bridebook profile

You can make a non-denominational wedding reading at any point during your ceremony or reception. For maximum impact, we recommend one or more of the following:

As a ceremony introduction

Making a non-religious reading as a ceremony introduction will set the tone for your wedding and engage your guests right from the beginning. Make sure your celebrant knows that you intend to give an opening speech, as this may affect the overall flow and structure of the ceremony.

Before the vows

If your non-religious wedding reading is quite short, consider making it before you read your vows to one another. This will give your guests a glimpse into your relationship and is your chance to squeeze in a few extra promises. Plus, it will set the tone for your vows and create a beautiful transition into that deeply intimate moment.

Instead of a speech

If you aren’t too confident in your speech-making abilities, you could use a non-religious wedding reading instead. Your reading will need to last between 3-5 minutes to ensure you meet a traditional wedding speech length. This is perfect if you intend to use a quote from literature!

After the desserts

A non-religious wedding reading is the perfect way to round off a beautiful day before your guests get to partying. You can round off the ceremony on a heartfelt note, leaving your guests with warm sentiments as you transition into the reception. It’s best to keep these words short as your guests will be eager to get to the party, so stick to song lyrics, short poems, or quotes from film or TV.

5 marriage ceremony readings from books and literature

1. Jane Eyre by Charlotte Brontë

I have for the first time found what I can truly love — I have found you. You are my sympathy — my better self — my good angel — I am bound to you with a strong attachment. I think you good, gifted, lovely; a fervent, a solemn passion is conceived in my heart; it leans to you, draws you to my centre and spring of life, wrap my existence about you — and, kindling in pure, powerful flame, fuses you and me in one.

2. The Amber Spyglass by Philip Pullman

I will love you forever; whatever happens. Till I die and after I die, and when I find my way out of the land of the dead, I’ll drift about forever, all my atoms, till I find you again… I’ll be looking for you, every moment, every single moment. And when we do find each other again, we’ll cling together so tight that nothing and no one’ll ever tear us apart. Every atom of me and every atom of you… we’ll live in birds and flowers and dragonflies and pine trees and in clouds and in those little specks of light you see floating in sunbeams… and when they use our atoms to make new lives, they won’t just be able to take one, they’ll have to take two, one of you and one of me, we’ll be joined so tight…

3. Everything I Know About Love by Dolly Alderton

I know that love can be loud and jubilant… It can be dancing in the swampy mud and the pouring rain at a festival and shouting “YOU ARE AMAZING” over the band. It’s introducing them to your colleagues at a work event and basking in pride as they make people laugh and make you look lovable just by dint of being loved by them.
It’s laughing until you wheeze.
It’s waking up in a country neither of you have been in before.
It’s skinny-dipping at dawn.
It’s walking along the street together on a Saturday night and feeling an entire city is yours.
It’s a big, beautiful, ebullient force of nature.
I also know that love is a pretty quiet thing.
It’s lying on the sofa together drinking coffee, talking about where you’re going to go that morning to drink more coffee.
It’s folding down pages of books you think they’d find interesting.
It’s hanging up their laundry when they leave the house having moronically forgotten to take it out of the washing machine.
It’s saying ‘You’re safer here than in a car’ as they hyperventilate on an EasyJet flight to Dublin. It’s the texts: ‘Hope your day goes well’, ‘How did today go?’, ‘Thinking of you today’ and ‘Picked up loo roll’. I know that love happens under the splendour of moon and stars and fireworks and sunsets but it also happens when you’re lying on blow-up airbeds in a childhood bedroom, sitting in A&E or in the queue for a passport, or in a traffic jam.
Love is a quiet, reassuring, relaxing, pottering, pedantic, harmonious hum of a thing; something you can easily forget is there, even though its palms are outstretched beneath you in case you fall.”

4. The Chaos Of Stars by Kiersten White

I didn’t fall in love with you. I walked into love with you, with my eyes wide open, choosing to take every step along the way. I do believe in fate and destiny, but I also believe we are only fated to do the things that we’d choose anyway. And I’d choose you; in a hundred lifetimes, in a hundred worlds, in any version of reality, I’d find you and I’d choose you.

5. The Bridge Across Forever by Richard Bach

A soulmate is someone who has locks that fit our keys, and keys to fit our locks. When we feel safe enough to open the locks, our truest selves step out and we can be completely and honestly who we are; we can be loved for who we are and not for who we’re pretending to be. Each unveils the best part of the other. No matter what else goes wrong around us, with that one person we’re safe in our own paradise. Our soulmate is someone who shares our deepest longings, our sense of direction. When we’re two balloons, and together our direction is up, chances are we’ve found the right person. Our soulmate is the one who makes life come to life.

5 marriage ceremony readings from films and TV

1. Captain Corelli’s Mandolin by Louis de Bernières

Love is a temporary madness, it erupts like volcanoes and then subsides. And when it subsides, you have to make a decision. You have to work out whether your roots have so entwined together that it is inconceivable that you should ever part. Because this is what love is. Love is not breathlessness, it is not excitement, it is not the promulgation of promises of eternal passion, it is not the desire to mate every second minute of the day, it is not lying awake at night imagining that he is kissing every cranny of your body. No, don’t blush, I am telling you some truths. That is just being ‘in love’, which any fool can do. Love itself is what is left over when being in love has burned away, and this is both an art and a fortunate accident.

2. Carrie Bradshaw in Sex and the City

His hello was the end of her endings. Her laugh was their first step down the aisle. His hand would be hers to hold forever. His forever was as simple as her smile. He said she was what was missing. She said instantly she knew. She was a question to be answered. And his answer was ‘I do.’

3. Harry Burns in When Harry Met Sally

I love that you get cold when it’s 71 degrees out. I love that it takes you an hour and a half to order a sandwich. I love that you get a little crinkle above your nose when you’re looking at me like I’m nuts. I love that after I spend the day with you, I can still smell your perfume on my clothes. And I love that you are the last person I want to talk to before I go to sleep at night. And it’s not because I’m lonely, and it’s not because it’s New Year’s Eve. I came here tonight because when you realise you want to spend the rest of your life with somebody, you want the rest of your life to start as soon as possible.

4. The Priest in Fleabag

It turns out it’s quite hard to come up with something original about love, but I’ve had a go. Love is awful. It’s awful. It’s painful. It’s frightening. It makes you doubt yourself, judge yourself, distance yourself from the other people in your life. It makes you selfish. It makes you creepy, makes you obsessed with your hair, makes you cruel, makes you say and do things you never thought you would do. It’s all any of us want, and it’s hell when we get there. So no wonder it’s something we don’t want to do on our own. I was taught if we’re born with love then life is about choosing the right place to put it. People talk about that a lot, feeling right, when it feels right, it’s easy. But I’m not sure that’s true. It takes strength to know what’s right. And love isn’t something that weak people do. Being a romantic takes a hell of a lot of hope. I think what they mean is, when you find somebody that you love, it feels like hope.

5. David Rose in Schitt’s Creek

I have never liked a smile as much as I like yours. I’ve never felt as safe as I feel when I’m with you. I’ve never known love like I do when we’re together. It’s not been an easy road for me but knowing that you will be there for me at the end makes everything okay. Patrick Brewer, you are my happy ending.

5 marriage ceremony readings from songs and musicals

1. Les Misérables by Victor Hugo

You can give without loving, but you can never love without giving. The great acts of love are done by those who are habitually performing small acts of kindness. We pardon to the extent that we love. Love is knowing that even when you are alone, you will never be lonely again. And the great happiness of life is the conviction that we are loved. Loved for ourselves. And even loved in spite of ourselves.

2. She’s Not Perfect by Bob Marley

She’s not perfect — you aren’t either, and the two of you may never be perfect together — but if she can make you laugh, cause you to think twice, and admit to being human and making mistakes, hold onto her and give her the most you can. She may not be thinking about you every second of the day, but she will give you a part of her that she knows you can break — her heart. So don’t hurt her, don’t change her, don’t analyse and don’t expect more than she can give. Smile when she makes you happy, let her know when she makes you mad, and miss her when she’s not there.

3. If I Should Fall Behind by Bruce Springsteen

We said we’d walk together, baby, come what may
That come the twilight should we lose our way
If as we’re walking a hand should slip free
I’ll wait for you, should I fall behind, wait for me.
We swore we’d travel, darlin’, side by side
We’d help each other stay in stride
But each lover’s steps fall so differently
But I’ll wait for you, and if I should fall behind, wait for me.
Now everyone dreams of love lasting and true
Oh but you and I know what this world can do
So let’s make our steps clear that the other may see
And I’ll wait for you, and if I should fall behind, wait for me.
Now there’s a beautiful river in the valley ahead
There ‘neath the oak’s bough soon we will be wed
Should we lose each other in the shadow of the evening trees
I’ll wait for you, should I fall behind, wait for me
Darlin’ I’ll wait for you, and should I fall behind, wait for me

4 . Your Song by Elton John

It’s a little bit funny this feeling inside

I’m not one of those who can easily hide

I don’t have much money but boy if I did

I’d buy a big house where we both could live

If I was a sculptor, but then again no

Or a man who makes potions in a travelling show

Oh I know it’s not much but it’s the best I can do

My gift is my song

And this one’s for you

And you can tell everybody this is your song

It may be quite simple but now that it’s done

I hope you don’t mind

That I put down in words

How wonderful life is while you’re in the world

5. Thinking Out loud by Ed Sheeran

When your legs don’t work like they used to before
And I can’t sweep you off of your feet
Will your mouth still remember the taste of my love
Will your eyes still smile from your cheeks
And darling I will be loving you ‘til we’re 70
And baby my heart could still fall as hard at 23
And I’m thinking ‘bout how people fall in love in mysterious ways
Maybe just the touch of a hand
Oh me I fall in love with you every single day
And I just wanna tell you I am
So honey now, take me into your loving arms
Kiss me under the light of a thousand stars
Place your head on my beating heart
I’m thinking out loud
Maybe we found love right where we are
The bottom line on non-religious wedding readings

Overall, non-denominational wedding readings are the perfect way to open up your wedding ceremony, set the tone of your reception, or even serve in place of traditional speeches. They’re a great way to incorporate your favourite books, TV shows, or songs into your special day and connect your love story with the hearts of your guests. Plus, you can customise the readings to reflect your personalities, values, and the special journey that brought you both to this moment, making the quotes you choose even more unique.

So, if you were looking for a non-religious wedding reading for your big day, take inspiration from this comprehensive guide. If, however, you want something shorter to pepper through your wedding speeches, see our post on 100+ Inspiring Love Quotes to inject some romance and whimsy into your wedding readings.

Happy Planning!

Your Step-By-Step Proposal Guide: In Partnership With The Proposers

If you’re thinking of proposing, you’ve come to the right place. It’s not just a case of dropping down on one knee – there a lots of moving parts to consider. So, whether you have a proposal in mind already, or are looking for inspiration, we’ve partnered with The Proposers to answer all your questions, from deciding when to pop the question to where to celebrate afterwards. Read on to learn from how to create a once-in-a-lifetime moment that you and your partner will treasure forever.

So, you’ve decided it’s time to pop the question – huge congratulations!

This is a very exciting moment in a relationship and quite a unique one as well. Whereas in a wedding you will both be planning together, a proposal is a perfect opportunity to plan a special surprise for your partner to show them just how much you care and to perfectly reflect on what you love about them as well as your relationship story thus far.

The holiday season is a perfect time to propose and one of the most popular as well, and we totally see why – the festive ambiance is all around, loved ones gather to celebrate and as a bonus point it leaves ample time to plan a beautiful summer wedding. We think there’s no better gift to give your partner than a stunning proposal this Christmas.

Below is The Proposers’ step-by-step guide to lead you all the way to ‘yes’:

1. Make sure you’re on the same page

As a preliminary step, we always recommend our couples discuss their future plans together, especially what they hope for in terms of getting married. Of course, this doesn’t need to give any of the proposal away – talk about generalities so that you know you are both on the same page. You can show them a TikTok that just ‘popped up’ on your feed or mention a recent colleague’s engagement as a prompt. It’s also a great opportunity to get a bit of information about what your partner may want for the proposal itself, what ring they’re dreaming of or if they want you to ask for permission from their parents – all useful details in taking the next steps.

2. Ask parents for permission

It’s tradition to ask for your partner’s hand in marriage from their father or from both parents depending on preference. If this is something that’s important to your partner, it’s a lovely sentiment to do so. In person is often best, we find. Soon you’ll all be family, so it’s a great opportunity to show your appreciation. Your partner’s parents will certainly value the gesture as well.

3. Pick the perfect ring

Now that you have the go-ahead, it’s time to shop for the perfect ring! Hopefully at this point you’ll have an indication of what your partner loves. Usually a diamond is preferred, and if that’s the case, consider what metal they would favour (such as platinum or gold), the shape (princess, round, pear are some options) and learn about the 4 Cs (carat, cut, clarity, colour), so that you can go into purchasing confidently. To get the sizing right when your partner isn’t watching, measure a ring they currently have that they often place on that finger. Otherwise, check out Bridebook’s guide on how to secretly measure your partner’s ring finger.

Of course, a diamond isn’t mandatory these days. If you think your partner would prefer another gemstone or even a different gift such as a watch, these are all excellent options as well, so long as it’s what you think your partner would love. Again, check out Bridebook’s top 30 unique alternatives to engagement rings for more inspiration. Some modern couples like to design the ring together, in which case you can propose with a place ring just for the photos.

4. Set the perfect scene

The good news is, there’s no right or wrong way to propose – the perfect ‘yes’ moment is totally dependent on who you are as a couple. Even so, we recommend considering the below when deciding how to ask.

Do you want a private proposal somewhere discreet, or public with the crowds cheering? Would your partner love a grand gesture with all the trimmings or something more small-scale and sentimental? Would they like friends or families to join or have it be just the both of you? The answers to the above will lend a hand when securing the perfect venue, which is essential in creating the desired atmosphere for those four all-important words.

Through our time planning proposals, we’ve had the fortune to work in many different settings, from privatising Disneyland just for the couple, to creating a flash mob in a central train station, and even closing a Cat Café for the day for a couple who loves felines. The venue of your proposal can be totally unique (like atop an epic landmark, such as a Swiss glacier), totally romantic (like a stunning hotel room with bouquets of roses all around), or tender and sweet (like the place you first met)!

Once you know the backdrop, consider what decoration you may want to enhance the ambience with. In the age of social media, it’s quite popular to have a display with lots of flowers and candles. While some locations can’t be decorated, particularly if you’re looking to propose in public, you can still get creative with other touches (as below).

5. Consider the special touches

No matter the setting, the details are really what makes a proposal meaningful. These are additional touches to really show your partner how much you care.

We always ask our clients about their love story, about activities or trips they’ve enjoyed with their partner, about their partner’s favourite things (like their hobbies, music, movies, colours) and about their dreams as a couple together. These points are helpful in understanding what makes your relationship unique, and can then be incorporated in creative ways into your engagement. From having your partner’s favourite song played in the background to toasting with a wine you enjoyed together on holiday – but this time with a personalised label with your proposal date – these touches will surely wow your partner!

6. Make it picture perfect

Consider hiring a professional photographer to shoot your proposal. This is the perfect way to ensure you have stunning images to go alongside your engagement announcement and to share with loved ones (who will want a full run-down of how it all happened). We absolutely love the candid shots a photographer captures when our clients walk in to the proposal venue and the surprise is revealed. These are priceless, and having this moment to reminisce on forevermore is truly something worthwhile.

It’s also a good idea to think about booking in a professional videographer or musician to serenade if you’re looking at creating a larger scale production. These aren’t mandatory, but a great add-on if budget allows.

7. Think about what you’re going to say

Once you’ve organised the running of the day, think of the specific moment itself. It will be extremely moving for your partner if you say a few meaningful words on such a momentous occasion. We recommend writing it down and committing it to memory so that you can remember everything you want to say in the moment.

8. Ready, set, ‘YES’

When the day arrives, and after all the groundwork has been laid out, our favourite tip is to try to relax and enjoy as much as possible. You’ve planned this special proposal for your partner, which they will surely adore, but don’t forget that this is a big milestone for you as well. The more you are in the moment and take it all in, the more you can truly have the best time and celebrate together!

Plan your proposal today!

If you’d like help organising your big day – we’re here to assist! The Proposers are the first ever proposal company in the world. With over 13 years of experience and 5,000 ‘yes’ moments to date, we love everything proposals. We will be delighted to hold your hand through the planning process for a hassle- free, magical “will you marry me”! Whatever vision you might have, we’ll make it a reality.

Happy Planning!

Non-Denominational Wedding Ceremony Guide

If you want to honour traditions from different types of cultural or religious wedding ceremonies, or you and your partner have different beliefs (or even no beliefs at all), then you may be considering a non-denominational ceremony for your wedding.

Non-denominational weddings fit in their own category, in that they can be whatever you want them to be. In some respects, they’re not too dissimilar from a traditional wedding ceremony, but may include rituals or traditions from other types too, like Jewish or Hindu ceremonies.

Because there’s the option for so much personalisation, how do you know if this kind of wedding ceremony is right for you? What type of couples usually choose a non-denominational wedding? What traditions can you include? And what order should you follow?

There are a lot of questions about non-denominational ceremonies. We’re here to answer as many of them as possible, to give you all the information you might need to decide whether it’s the right choice for you.

So, read on to discover all about non-denominational weddings. For more information about the different types of wedding ceremonies around the UK and beyond, read our ultimate wedding ceremony guide.

What is a non-denominational wedding ceremony?

Photo © Nicola Streader Photography | See their Bridebook profile

A non-denominational ceremony is a type of wedding ceremony that doesn’t specifically fit into its own category. It isn’t linked to a certain religion, but can include references to God and religion, as well as different traditions or rituals.

This means there are plenty of opportunities for personalisation, so you can really make your wedding unique and specific to you.

What date should you have a non-denominational wedding ceremony?

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Because non-denominational weddings aren’t associated with a specific religion, you have total flexibility over the date you choose. You might want to have yours on a Saturday, which is the most popular day to get married, and means your guests are more likely to be free, or a Tuesday, which is generally the cheapest day to have a wedding.

That being said, if you’re spiritual in some way, you may want to pay attention to the date you choose. For example, consulting astrology or your birth chart can tell you your most auspicious date for getting married – something Hindu couples will ask their priest about.

What time does a non-denominational wedding ceremony take place?

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A non-denominational wedding ceremony can start at any time. If you’re getting married at a venue such as a hotel, restaurant or outside space, you have free rein over your wedding. If you choose to get married at a registry office, ceremonies usually start on the hour, with several options available each day.

If you’re spiritual, you may want the ceremony to start at a specific time. Or, you may consider a twilight wedding, when the ceremony itself is much later in the day to take advantage of the natural beauty of the setting sun.

How popular are non-denominational wedding ceremonies?

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It’s hard to determine how popular non-denominational weddings are because they don’t fall into a specific category like Catholic ceremonies or Muslim weddings.

But, thanks to how much personalisation they offer, they’re rising in popularity. They’re reminiscent of traditional wedding ceremonies, but far more specific to you.

What type of couples usually choose a non-denominational wedding ceremony?

Photo © Leesha Williams Photo + Film | See their Bridebook profile

Because they offer so many ways to make it your own, many different types of couples choose to have a non-denominational ceremony. It may be couples who have no religious beliefs but want to include certain traditions or rituals, religious couples who want more choice over what’s included in the ceremony, LGBTQ+ couples, or mixed-faith couples who want to honour both religions.

Are non-denominational weddings expensive?

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Our 2023 Wedding Report revealed that the average cost of a wedding in the UK is £19,184, which includes non-denominational weddings. However, because there are no specific expectations with a non-denominational wedding, it’s possible that there could be a much wider variation in budgets used by couples. So, whether you have a small or modest budget, or money’s no object, you can still plan a fabulous non-denominational ceremony.

For ideas and inspiration on ways to cut costs for your big day, read our guide on how to save money on your wedding.

Who officiates a non-denominational wedding ceremony?

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Usually, to ensure the marriage is legally binding, you would hire a registrar to officiate your wedding. However, personalisation is key when it comes to non-denominational weddings, so many couples choose to hire a celebrant. If you want your ceremony to include different references to religion or comedy, be uplifting and motivating, or absolutely anything else, hiring a celebrant can help make that happen. But remember, to make sure everything’s legally binding you still need to hire a registrar too!

Is a non-denominational wedding legally binding?

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Yes, if officiated by a registrar, a non-denominational wedding is legally binding in the UK.

Where are non-denominational wedding ceremonies held?

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Like traditional wedding ceremonies, non-denominational ceremonies can be held practically anywhere. Our 2023 Wedding Report revealed that the most popular venues in the UK are:

Hotel
Barn
Country house
Event venue
Stately home
Outdoors
Castle

The only limitations on this will be places of worship, which can generally only be used as a wedding ceremony venue if you’re a member of that specific religion or congregation. So, let your imagination run wild when it comes to planning your dream ceremony!

How long are non-denominational wedding ceremonies?

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While non-denominational ceremonies do allow for all kinds of personalisations, they’re not too dissimilar from traditional ceremonies, so often last between 30 and 45 minutes. It all depends on the number of traditions and rituals you choose to include, which always means they could be a little shorter or longer.

To find out more about the lengths of different ceremonies around the UK and beyond, read our guide to how long wedding ceremonies take.

What is a unity ceremony at a non-denominational wedding?

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A unity ceremony is a lovely and elegant ritual that represents two people coming together as one. It’s a symbolic ceremony that involves the couple doing something together, which could be something small, like tying their hands together, or larger, like planting a tree. It’s something many couples like to include, and not seen only at non-denominational weddings.

What type of unity ceremony could you do at a non-denominational wedding?

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Some examples of unity ceremonies include:

Lighting a unity candle, , which is when the couple each lights a candle, which are then used to light a single third candle.
Sand pouring, when the couple pour different coloured sand into a vase or jar to create a lovely blended pattern.
Handfasting, where the officiant binds the couple’s hands using a ribbon.
Tree planting, where the couple plants a sapling so they can watch it grow into a strong tree, which reflects their ever-growing relationship.
Releasing a single lantern into the night’s sky, which symbolises the couple’s shared dreams and aspirations taking flight.

These are just a handful of the many possible unity ceremonies you could include in your own celebration. As with most aspects of a non-denominational wedding, you can choose something totally personal to you.

What words are exchanged at a non-denominational wedding ceremony?

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The vows that are exchanged at a non-denominational wedding also offer a huge amount of flexibility. You may choose to be fed words by the officiant which you can repeat, or you might like to write your own vows which you can either memorise or read. Unlike with a registry office ceremony, you can include as many references to God and religion as you wish.

Remember, as well as being a romantic and personal celebration, a marriage is also a legal process. So, while you can write your own vows, you’ll also need to say the declaratory and contracting words, which are along these lines:

Declaratory words

“I do solemnly declare that I know not of any lawful reason why I [YOUR FULL NAME] may not be joined in matrimony to [YOUR PARTNER’S FULL NAME].”

Contracting words

“I call upon these persons here present to witness that I, [YOUR FULL NAME], do take thee [YOUR PARTNER’S FULL NAME] to be my lawful wedded [WIFE/HUSBAND/SPOUSE/PARTNER IN MARRIAGE].”

What traditions are there at a non-denominational wedding ceremony?

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A non-denominational ceremony is a lot like a traditional wedding ceremony, so there’s quite a lot of crossover when it comes to traditions. Plus, because they’re so customisable, you may want to introduce different or new traditions. But, to get you started with what you might want to include in your own ceremony, here are just a few common non-denominational wedding ceremony traditions:

The processional and recessional, when the couple walks down the aisle accompanied by the rest of the wedding party.
Personalised vows, which the couple can write themselves.
The exchanging of rings (or similar if the couple have chosen not to wear rings).
A unity/unifying ceremony, which symbolises the couple coming together as one.
Readings, poems or songs, with readings being performed by the officiant, celebrant or a loved one.
Wedding music that holds sentimental value.

What do you wear at a non-denominational wedding?

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You can wear whatever you like at a non-denominational wedding, whether it’s a white bridal dress, a flowery summer-style dress, a suit, or your swimwear (that is, if it’s on a beach, rather than a golf club – but you do you!).

What is the order at a non-denominational wedding ceremony?

Non-Denominational Wedding Ceremony Order Cheat Sheet — This infographic illustrates a non-denominational wedding ceremony order

The order of a non-denominational ceremony is fairly close to that of a traditional wedding ceremony, only with the addition of certain songs, traditions or rituals that you may want to include. Because of this, every non-denominational ceremony is different, but will often have an order that looks something similar to the below:

1. The processional

The ceremony begins with the wedding party entering the venue and walking down the aisle in a similar order to that of a traditional wedding (and with a lot of flexibility):

The officiant (anyone who has been ordained)
The groom
Best man
Groomsmen
Bridesmaids
Maid of honour
Ring bearer
Flower girl
The bride (with one or both parents)

For LGBTQ+ couples, you may want to have an order similar to this, or many couples choose to walk down the aisle together – whatever works for you.

2. The welcome

The officiant welcomes everyone to the ceremony and explains the significance of marriage. If you’ve hired a celebrant, this is when they’ll go into your background and the two of you as a couple.

3. The readings

If you’ve chosen to include readings or songs, the first will often come after the welcome. This could be a love poem, inspiring quotes, song lyrics, or a meaningful extract – anything you like that fits the theme and style of your ceremony. Unlike with a registry office ceremony, anything you include can make references to God or religion.

4. The unity candle

To symbolise the two of you coming together, you can each light a candle which is then used to light a third candle, representing you coming together as one.

5. The unifying ritual

Many couples have a unifying ritual in addition to (or instead of) a unity candle. This could be anything from handfasting to circling a ceremonial fire.

6. The exchanging of vows

This is when you’ll recite either the vows you’ve chosen to write or repeat the vows fed to you by the officiant. Many couples still love to honour the wedding tradition of saying, I do.

7. The exchanging of rings

If you’ve chosen to exchange rings, this will happen after the vows. Some couples may also choose to exchange a different item.

8. The declaration of marriage and first kiss

The officiant will excitedly declare the two of you as officially married, and invite you to share your first kiss as a wedded couple. It’s at this moment that your guests will erupt into cheers and joyous tears.

9. The recessional

As a married couple, the two of you leave the venue followed by the wedding party in reverse order to how they entered. Then, it’s time to head out and party (after a few photos for the wedding album, of course).

How do you book a non-denominational wedding ceremony?

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To book a non-denominational ceremony, you first need to decide the kind of ceremony you want and where you want it to be hosted. Once you know the kind of ceremony you’d like, speak to registrars and celebrants to see who can match the vision you have.

Browse our diverse range of fabulous venues and celebrants to make a start on planning your perfect wedding.

Who plans a non-denominational wedding ceremony?

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You no doubt have a few thoughts about what you want from your wedding ceremony, so might be excited to plan it yourself. Many couples love planning their own wedding, and it’s a huge part of the overall experience.

You may also choose to hire a wedding planner. These experience professionals can take a lot of the time-consuming and challenging parts of wedding planning off your plate, leaving you with the fun stuff.

What comes after a non-denominational wedding ceremony?

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Once the ceremony is over, you can do whatever you like – whether it’s an epic party or formal three-course wedding breakfast, or you’d rather just jet right off on your honeymoon . Just like the rest of your wedding, you can do whatever suits your tastes, preferences and budget.

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Hindu Wedding Ceremony Guide

There are few wedding ceremonies out there quite as vibrant, exciting and fun as a Hindu ceremony. They’re absolutely filled to the brim with traditions and rituals, with a heavy focus on celebrating the coming together of two people in love.

Many of the traditions are based on ancient scriptures so have been included in Hindu wedding ceremonies for hundreds of years. Every part of the ceremony has a symbolic meaning that is an important and must-have inclusion for every Hindu couple that gets married.

But, with so much incredible history, you no doubt have a lot of questions about what goes into a Hindu wedding ceremony. For example, how long is a Hindu ceremony? Is there a certain day or date you should get married on if you’re Hindu? Where can you hold your ceremony? What are some of the most popular traditions?

With so many different elements included in a Hindu ceremony, it’s only natural that you might have a few questions. That’s where we come in. In this guide, we’re going to dive into everything to do with Hindu wedding ceremonies, from the cost of the wedding to the order on the big day. That way, you’ll be as prepared as possible when planning your own ceremony.

For more information about the different types of wedding ceremonies, read our ultimate wedding ceremony guide.

What is a Hindu wedding ceremony?

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A Hindu wedding ceremony is a joyous occasion when two people come together to get married, joined by their friends and family. Also known as a Vivaha or Kalyanam, a Hindu wedding ceremony can last up to three hours, but the celebrations begin several days early and can continue long after it’s done. Some Hindu weddings can last as long as five days (though usually last around three).

Hindu ceremonies are as long as they are because of the wonderful rituals and traditions that have deep and rich cultural meanings. Ceremonies can differ based on region, culture and other traditions, but every Hindu wedding you go to will generally have most of the same elements to them. The actual ceremony itself usually takes place on the final day of the celebrations.

What date should you have a Hindu wedding ceremony?

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When choosing the perfect date for a Hindu wedding, you’ll probably want to turn astrological charts to find out the most auspicious dates for your big day. For example, a popular time for a wedding ceremony is after the new moon because it’s considered lucky. Similarly, you might want to look at your birth chart, as this can offer valuable insight into lucky dates.

However, you might also want to pay close attention to the day of the week. Monday, Wednesday, Thursday and Friday are auspicious days, whereas Tuesday isn’t. And because Saturday is a day for relaxing, you’ll most likely not want to get married on this day, despite it being more likely that your guests will have a day off from work.

Certain dates should also be avoided, such as Amas which comes monthly, and a day in which Hindu marriages are forbidden. Marriages also can’t take place during the 15 days of Shradh, which takes place every September, or 8 days before Holi, which is in March.

What time does a Hindu wedding ceremony take place?

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There is no set time a Hindu wedding should take place, so it’s whatever works for you. That being said, Hindu wedding ceremonies can take up to three hours, so it’s recommended that they don’t start too late in the day, especially during the winter months.

Speak to your chosen priest who may offer you some guidance, such as by consulting astrology to determine the most auspicious time.

How popular are Hindu wedding ceremonies?

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As you’d probably expect, Hindu wedding ceremonies are popular among the Hindu community. If neither you nor your fiance are Hindu, then you can’t have a Hindu wedding.

However, if you’re part of a mixed-faith couple, then you’re more than welcome to have a Hindu wedding ceremony.

What type of couples usually choose a Hindu wedding ceremony?

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Generally, Hindu couples will choose to have a Hindu wedding ceremony. But, if just one of you is a Hindu and the other isn’t, you can still choose to have a Hindu wedding.

Are Hindu weddings expensive?

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As detailed in our 2023 Wedding Report, the average cost of a wedding in the UK is £19,184. However, this figure includes everything from the ceremony to the reception, which takes place on a single day for the majority of weddings.

Because Hindu wedding celebrations can last as many as five days, they’re often more expensive than traditional wedding ceremonies. But, this all depends on the budget you have to dedicate to your big day. If you have a budget smaller than the average cost, you can still have a beautiful, romantic and memorable wedding filled with joy and celebration. It might only last two days instead of three or five – but there’s absolutely nothing wrong with that.

If you’re planning a Hindu wedding and are keen to keep costs as low as possible, read our guide on how to save money on your wedding for plenty of cost-cutting strategies and tips that you can apply to any type of wedding.

Who officiates a Hindu wedding ceremony?

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A Hindu wedding ceremony is officiated by a Brahmin priest, who is usually male. Before the ceremony begins, the couple meets with the priest so he can explain what will happen, why it happens and how it’s significant. He’ll also ask the couple if they have any questions and help them feel at ease.

Is a Hindu wedding legally binding?

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In the UK, a Hindu wedding ceremony isn’t legally binding. To ensure it is, you’ll need to have a small, legal ceremony at a registry office which is officiated by a registrar, and in the presence of two witnesses. It’s recommended that you do this a week or so before the date of your Hindu wedding ceremony so everything’s in place ahead of your big day.

Why is the Mangal Sutra considered a sacred symbol in Hindu weddings?

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Mangal Sutra is a key moment in a Hindu wedding ceremony, in which the groom ties a necklace around his bride’s neck. As part of the overall wedding ceremony, this ceremony is called Mangalya Dharanam.

The Mangal Sutra symbolises the lifelong promise the bride and groom make to each other. Traditionally, the bride will wear it every day until her husband dies, though due to the huge sentimental value, she may not want to. It helps to protect the couple and ward off bad spirits.

Often, the Mangal Sutra is tied using three knots, which symbolise loyalty, devotion and dedication. Some couples like to have the groom tie the first knot, followed by the groom’s sisters tying the second two knots.

Where are Hindu wedding ceremonies held?

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Traditionally, a Hindu wedding ceremony will take place in the bride’s hometown, in a hotel, hall or event space that’s big enough to accommodate a large number of guests. There will usually be blessings at the local temple as well.

How long are Hindu wedding ceremonies?

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A Hindu wedding ceremony will generally last between 90 minutes and 3 hours, which makes it one of the longest wedding ceremonies in the world. This is because of the huge amount of traditions and rituals which are included.

However, the overall wedding celebrations will usually last much longer – often between three and five days.

Read our guide to how long wedding ceremonies take to learn more about how long different types of wedding ceremonies last.

What happens during the days before a Hindu wedding ceremony?

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A Hindu wedding ceremony usually happens on the final day of the wedding celebrations, which is followed by an evening of celebrating with family and friends.

The days before the ceremony are filled with celebrations and events, such as Ganesh Puja (also known as Pithi or Mandap Muhuray), Grah Shanti (or Mameru) and Mehndi.

What words are exchanged at a Hindu wedding ceremony?

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Hindu wedding ceremonies include many vows that are exchanged by the couple – seven, in fact. But, they’re not too dissimilar to vows exchanged at other types of wedding ceremonies.

They represent love, respect, honour and faith, and are spoken in Sanskrit.

What are the seven vows of a Hindu marriage?

1. The First Phera – Nourishment

Teerathavartodan Yagyakaram Maya Sahayee Priyavai Kurya
Wamangamayami Teada kadheyvav Brwati Sentenam first Kumari

The first vow is a promise the bride and groom make to each other to go on a shared journey together. It expresses their appreciation to the Holy Spirit and offers thanks for the food and nourishment.

2. The Second Phera – Strength

Pujayu as Swao Pahrao Mamam Fletcher Nijkaram Kurya,
Vaamangamayami Tadrayuddhi Brwati Kanya Vachanam II

The second vow is a sign of respect to the bride and groom’s parents, as well as a prayer for strength and peace.

3. The Third Phera – Prosperity

Living in the law of life,
Varmangayamy Turda Dwivedi Bratiti Kanya Vrutti Tharthiya

The groom promises the bride he will follow her through life, and says a prayer to God asking for wealth and prosperity.

4. The Fourth Phera – Family

If you want to comply with Family Counseling Function
Vaamangamayami tadrayuddhi bratiti karni vadhan fourtha

This is the promise that the couple will uphold the responsibilities of family, which was something they weren’t burdened with before.

5. The Fifth Phera – Togetherness

Personal Career Practices, Mammapi Mantrytha,
Wamangamayami Teada Kadheyeye Bruete Wachch: Panchamatra Kanya

The bride asks the groom to share his time with her and help take care of the home and ask the Holy Spirit to bless them with healthy children.

6. The Sixth Phera – Health

Do not waste your money in a simple way,
Wamamgamayami Taddaa Brwati Kanya Vyasam Saturday, September

The bride asks her groom for respect, which is important as they stand in front of loved ones at the ceremony.

7. The Seventh Phera – Wisdom

Ancestors, mothers, always respected, always cherished,
Warmangaiyami Turda Dudhaye Bruete Wachch: Satyendra Kanya

The couples make a promise to each other to be loyal and cherish one another

What traditions are there at a Hindu wedding ceremony?

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A Hindu wedding ceremony will generally include many different traditions, which couples often choose to include for cultural and symbolic reasons. Just some of these traditions include:

The bride may wear a red sari or lengha
Painting the bride’s hands and feet with beautiful and intricate henna patterns, which may include the groom’s name hidden someone within
Prayers to the God Ganesha
The baraat, which is a celebration as the groom arrives at the start of the ceremony
Traditions dictate that the groom can’t take his bride until her father gives her away
A fire at the centre of the mandap, which often plays a key role in the ceremony
The bride and groom throw a rice mixture at each other
The exchanging of floral garlands known as jai mala

What do you wear at a Hindu wedding?

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The bride traditionally wears a sari or long lehenga, which may be red but adorned with fabulous designs and additional colours. She may also wear a dupatta draped over her shoulders or head.

The groom traditionally wears a sherwani, a long-sleeved outfit that is gold or brown.

Guests will often wear a sari, lehenga or suit, taking care to be modest.

What is the order at a Hindu wedding ceremony?

Hindu Wedding Ceremony Order Cheat Sheet — This infographic illustrates a Hindu wedding ceremony order

With so many traditions and rituals to include, a Hindu wedding ceremony often follows a similar and recognisable order. There aren’t many opportunities for personalisations, but there can be some variations from one ceremony to another.

Because a Hindu wedding ceremony isn’t legally binding in the UK, a week or so before the ceremony you and your partner, together with two witnesses, must have a legal ceremony at a registry office. After that, you’re free to have your Hindu ceremony officiated by a priest.

Below is an order you’re likely to see at a Hindu wedding ceremony.

1. The baraat

The groom’s arrival is known as the baraat. Traditionally, the groom arrives at the ceremony on the back of a white horse adorned with incredible colours. However, many modern grooms choose a different form of transport, such as a sports car, convertible or classic car.

2. The milni

Before the bride enters, the groom meets with her parents, along with friends and loved ones. He’s often given a small gift called a shagun, which is a symbol of good luck.

3. The bride enters

Side-by-side with male family members (traditionally brothers or uncles), the bride enters and walks down the aisle. In modern weddings, a bride may also want to be escorted by her father or even her mother. Once at the front, the bride joins the groom, the parents and the priest.

4. Kanyadaan

Kanyadaan is the ritual whereby the bride’s father gives away his daughter, which he does by taking her right hand and placing it in the left hand of the groom. As he does, he asks the groom to treat his daughter as his equal.

5. The jaimala exchange

Jaimala are garlands made from beautiful fresh flowers, which the bride and groom exchange to represent acceptance. As this happens, the priest recites a prayer in Sanskrit.

6. Havan

The deity Agni is summoned with the lightning of a fire, which is to get rid of dark spirits and bring eternal light and knowledge.

7. Mangal Fera

With the fire lit, the couple circles it four times, with the groom traditionally leading three times and the bride once. Every passing represents one of four life goals:

Dharma (morality)
Artha (prosperity)
Kama (positive energy)
Moksha (liberation)

As this happens, the priest chants holy mantras. Traditionally, after Mangal Fera, the bride and groom are encouraged to race to take their seats. It’s said that whoever wins the race will be the head of the new household!

8. Saptapadi

Seven steps are taken to symbolise friendship and commitment, which may also be taken around the holy fire. With every step, a vow is made, so there are seven in total. After the seventh vow, the couple is officially declared married.

9. Sindhoor and Mangal Sutra

The groom puts orange or red powder in his bride’s hair, which is known as sindhoor. The groom then gives the bride a gold necklace, which he ties around her neck with three knots. Traditionally, the bride would only remove it in the event her husband died, though many modern brides may choose not to wear it daily due to its huge sentimental value.

10. The final blessings

The priest and elders recite prayers and readings to mark the end of the ceremony. The guests offer their blessings and congratulations to the couple. Traditionally, married women whisper well-wishes into the bride’s right ear.

11. Talambralu

The bride and groom throw rice, turmeric and saffron over each other, known as talambralu. This ritual symbolises a long life filled with wealth and prosperity.

12. Ashirwad

The bride and groom bow to guests as they leave, with guests offering blessings while throwing rice and flowers.

How do you book a Hindu wedding ceremony?

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Once you’re engaged and would like to book a Hindu wedding ceremony, speak to local Hindu priests who are familiar with local laws and understand the vision you have for your ceremony.

If you’re inviting guests who only speak English, you’ll want to make sure your chosen priest also knows English.

Speak to the priest about the ideal date for your wedding, so they can consult astrology and your birth chart to find the most auspicious date for your big day.

Who plans a Hindu wedding ceremony?

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Traditionally, the bride’s parents would be the ones to plan a Hindu wedding. However, many couples are excited to plan their own wedding, but will also share the excitement with both sets of parents if they want to get involved.

Some couples choose to hire a wedding planner who can make the process a lot easier, especially if your wedding spans several days and there’s a lot to organise.

What comes after a Hindu wedding ceremony?

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After the ceremony, it’s time to party, of course! At the reception, you’ll potentially have a lot of guests, which means finding a venue, caterer and other vendors who can accommodate so many people. There’ll be eating, drinking, dancing, laughing and many other celebrations throughout the night. Let your hair down – you’ll have earned it!

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Jewish Wedding Ceremony Guide

Jewish wedding ceremonies are full of traditions and are wonderful celebrations of love and commitment. For centuries they’ve followed a similar structure and are steeped in spiritual meaning and symbolic rituals.

If you’re Jewish and about to start your wedding-planning journey, you no doubt have a lot of questions about your upcoming wedding ceremony. It’s only natural. But, while there are plenty of traditions at a Jewish ceremony, they’re also exciting and fun, and full of celebrations.

You may wonder how long a Jewish wedding ceremony lasts, the best date to have a Jewish wedding or how much they cost. When you have all the answers, you’ll be in the best possible position to start planning your own wedding.

That’s why, in this post, we’re going to answer the most common questions about Jewish wedding ceremonies. We’ll cover the costs, the traditions and what happens in what order, so you have all the information you need before planning your big day.

For more information about different wedding ceremonies, read our ultimate wedding ceremony guide, which answers even more questions.

What is a Jewish wedding ceremony?

A Jewish wedding ceremony is the coming together of a couple to get married while following the traditions established by their Jewish faith. It’s a time for joy and celebration as a couple promise to love and cherish each other for the rest of their lives. It combines biblical, legal, cultural and historical threads as a promise to your new spouse in front of God.

It’s taught that marriage is linked to the marriage between the Jewish people of Israel and God which happened at Mount Sinai, and is featured in the Book of Exodus.

Jewish ceremonies are absolutely steeped in rituals that have been in place for hundreds, if not thousands of years. However, there’s still a fair amount of personalisation allowed, which means you can make your wedding ceremony your own. That being said, you’re still likely to stick to many of the rituals and traditions that are expected at a Jewish ceremony.

If you’ve never been to a Jewish wedding ceremony before, you may be surprised by the new and wonderful traditions you’ll see, which are very different from traditional or other types of religious ceremonies.

What date should you have a Jewish wedding ceremony?

It’s important to pay close attention to the date you choose for your wedding, because it can have huge symbolic (and administrative) importance.

The Jewish calendar has days of joy as well as days of mourning. It’s recommended that you avoid days of mourning as it wouldn’t be appropriate to host a celebration on a date intended for reflection or rest. This means a Jewish wedding will never take place on a Saturday. The most popular day of the week for a Jewish wedding is a Sunday.

You’ll also want to avoid booking a wedding on a date that coincides with another celebration or holiday. For example, make sure you don’t book your wedding to take place at Passover, Yom Kippur, Rosh or Hashanah. Not only will many of your guests be unavailable on these dates, but you’ll also struggle to find a rabbi who’ll be available to officiate your wedding, as many will undoubtedly be busy.

What time does a Jewish wedding ceremony take place?

A Jewish wedding ceremony can take place at any time of the day, but will more frequently take place in the afternoon or early evening. While traditional weddings will often last all day, Jewish weddings are usually around seven hours or so long, which is why they tend to start a little later.

Is it common for Jewish weddings to include a religious service?

Yes, there will be a religious ceremony at the same time as a Jewish wedding ceremony. A wedding is a hugely important and sacred event that will always include many traditions and rituals, such as readings, prayers and blessings.

How popular are Jewish wedding ceremonies?

As you might expect, Jewish wedding ceremonies are popular only among Jewish communities. If you’re not Jewish, you’re not able to get married in a Jewish ceremony.

What type of couples usually choose a Jewish wedding ceremony?

Only couples where both the bride and groom are Jewish can get married in a Jewish ceremony. Mixed-faith marriages, or intermarriages, are common among Jewish people, but it can be difficult to find a rabbi who will perform a wedding ceremony unless they practice Reform Judaism.

A rabbi who’s an Orthodox Jew will be highly unlikely to agree to officiate a mixed-faith ceremony. In this case, if you’re set on a Jewish ceremony, the non-Jewish half of the couple would need to convert to Judaism.

Are Jewish weddings expensive?

According to Bridebook’s 2023 Wedding Report, the average cost of a wedding in the UK is £19,184. This may already sound like an eye-watering amount, however, it actually may be reasonable when compared to many Jewish weddings.

According to data from The Jewish Chronicle, Jewish wedding celebrations can cost as much much as £55,000. It’s thought that many couples feel pressured to keep up with others who throw lavish and expensive weddings, which is causing many to spend more and more.

However, spending so much on your wedding doesn’t need to be the case. Creating a budget and sticking to it is vital if you want to avoid costs spiraling.

Thankfully, you can throw a beautiful Jewish wedding and not spend anything close to £55,000. It all depends on your preferences, tastes, style and – mainly – budget.

For plenty of tips and information for keeping costs down, read our guide on how to save money on your wedding.

What is the breaking the glass tradition at a Jewish wedding?

The tradition of breaking a glass at a Jewish wedding ceremony is possibly one of the most widely known, even for those who aren’t Jewish themselves.

The glass that’s broken is often a wine glass, but some choose to break a light bulb as the glass is thin and easily broken. Traditionally, the groom is the one who’ll stand on the glass which is placed under a towel or cloth for safety. But, many modern Jewish couples like to break the glass together, or may even choose to break a glass each.

What the tradition actually stands for is down to individual beliefs and interpretations. Many see the glass as a representation of love and marriage, and how breaking the glass symbolises just how fragile marriage can be. Others claim it might represent the First Temple of Jerusalem, which was destroyed by Nebuchadnezzar, the king of Babylon, in 586 BC.

After the glass is broken, the guests will all cheer by shouting Mazel tov, which is the Yiddish word for good fortune or congratulations.

Who officiates a Jewish wedding ceremony?

A Jewish wedding ceremony is officiated by a rabbi, who is a Jewish spiritual leader. The rabbi makes sure that the correct rituals are upheld at the ceremony. There also needs to be a registrar to ensure the marriage is legal, which may be the rabbi, or more likely another member of the synagogue.

Is a Jewish wedding legally binding?

Yes, a Jewish wedding is legally binding in the UK so long as the synagogue’s registrar and two witnesses are present at the ceremony.

Where are Jewish wedding ceremonies held?

There’s a lot of flexibility when it comes to where a Jewish wedding ceremony can take place. This may be in a synagogue, a Jewish place of worship, or it could be another appropriate venue. It could also take place outside, which is fairly common with Jewish ceremonies – but mainly in warmer and more reliable climates than that experienced here in the UK.

The main consideration for a ceremony venue is that a chuppah can be set up. A chuppah is a cloth canopy that’s held up by four supporting posts and represents the Jewish home. This is often why Jewish ceremonies take place in large or open spaces, so they can accommodate the chuppah. Today, modern Jewish couples may opt to have the ceremony at a venue such as a hotel, which can also host the post-wedding celebrations.

How long are Jewish wedding ceremonies?

Jewish wedding ceremonies are usually between 30 and 45 minutes. This is because there’s usually a set structure that includes a lot of religious rituals and traditions.

For information on the length of different wedding ceremonies, read our guide to how long wedding ceremonies take.

What words are exchanged at a Jewish wedding ceremony?

During a Jewish wedding ceremony, the vows are exchanged at the same time the rings are exchanged. The words they exchange are:

Harey at mekuddeshet li B’taba’at zo k’dat Moshe V’israel.

In English, this means:

Behold, thou are consecrated unto me with this ring according to the law of Moses and Israel.

The couple will often recite words from the Song of Solomon, which are, Ani L’dodi V’dodi Li. This means, I am my beloved’s and my beloved is mine.

Do Jewish couples fast before the wedding ceremony?

Because a wedding day is considered a day of forgiveness, many couples choose to honour this by fasting. The fast will continue until after the ceremony when they can share their first meal together.

What traditions are there at a Jewish wedding ceremony?

Jewish wedding ceremonies are known for being packed with fabulous traditions and rituals that have a huge amount of meaning. Just some of the most widely known Jewish wedding ceremony traditions include:

Aufruf, which means to call up in Yiddish. It’s when the rabbi invites the couple for blessings, known as aliyah and misheberach. Guests can throw soft sweets at the couple as a way to wish them a sweet life.
Ketubah, which is the signing of the marriage contract.
Bedeken, when the groom puts the veil over the bride’s face to symbolise that he loves her inner beauty.
Circling, which is when the bride and groom walk around each other to ward off evil spirits and temptation.
The exchanging of the rings, which is also traditional at many other wedding ceremonies.
The seven blessings, known as Sheva B’rachot, which are readings performed by family members.
Breaking the glass, which is possibly one of the most famous Jewish wedding ceremony traditions, where traditionally the groom smashes a glass to symbolise the fragility of marriage.
Cheering Mazel tov, which means good fortune or congratulations.

What do you wear at a Jewish wedding?

Reform Judaism doesn’t have any requirements or restrictions on what couples should wear to their wedding. However, Orthodox Judaism asks for brides to wear a white dress that covers their shoulders, back and nothing with a plunging neckline. Traditionally, the bride will also wear a veil, especially if the couple wants to honour bedeken.

The groom will traditionally wear a kitel, which is a white linen robe. However, many grooms at modern Jewish weddings prefer to wear a suit.

Guests to a Jewish wedding will usually wear a suit and tie or long evening dress.

What is the order at a Jewish wedding ceremony?

Jewish Wedding Ceremony Order Cheat Sheet — This infographic illustrates a Jewish wedding ceremony order

We’ve already mentioned that Jewish wedding ceremonies are filled with many wonderful traditions. As part of this, they tend to follow a set structure to ensure these traditions and rituals are upheld. Below is an example of the order of a Jewish wedding ceremony:

1. The ketubah

Unlike other types of wedding ceremony, the marriage contract, called the ketubah, is signed before the ceremony begins. Two witnesses must also sign the contract, along with a registrar, who may or may not be the rabbi.

2. The bedeken

Next, the groom will veil the bride to symbolise that he loves her for her inner beauty. It also allows him to see her face beforehand so he knows who he’s marrying.

3. The processional

The ceremony commences with the rabbi walking down the aisle first. The wedding party then follows in this order:

Bride’s grandparents
Groom’s grandparents
Groomsmen
Best man
The groom and both parents
Bridesmaids
Maid of honour
Ring bearer
Flower girl
The bride and both parents

4. The vows

The couple stands together beneath the chuppah, a canopy supported by four tall supports, which symbolises the new home. Guided by the rabbi, the couple recites their vows.

5. The hakafot

The hakafot, also known as the circling, is a lovely ritual that traditionally involves the bride walking around the groom seven times. However, many modern couples like to take turns circling each other to demonstrate how they’ll both protect each other.

6. The exchanging of the rings

The ketubah, which the couple signed before the ceremony, is read aloud. As this happens, the couple exchange rings and a Hebrew prayer is recited. In modern weddings, it may be more common for the prayer to be recited in English.

7. The seven blessings

The guests of your choosing are invited to give blessings, which may be in Hebrew or English. Alternatively, you may ask the rabbi to give the blessings.

8. The breaking of the glass

One of the highlights of the ceremony and a hugely popular tradition. A glass is placed beneath a cloth or napkin, which the groom then stamps on to break it. Modern couples may wish to break the glass together, or break a glass each. Following this, the rabbi usually reads from Psalms.

9. Mazel tov

Guests will excitedly shout mazel tov, which means good fortune or congratulations.

10. The recessional

The ceremony has concluded and the wedding party leaves as the guests celebrate and cheer. The recessional is in the following order:

The couple
Bride’s parents
Groom’s parents
Bride’s grandparents
Groom’s grandparents
Flower girl
Ring bearer
Best man
Maid of honour
Bridesmaids
Groomsmen

For more information on wedding ceremony orders, read our guide to wedding ceremony orders.

How does the process of signing the ketubah work?

The signing of the ketubah is more than a simple legal document. It’s also an important symbolic document that outlines all the expectations and responsibilities of the bride and groom.

Ahead of the wedding, the couple meets with the rabbi to choose a ketubah that has a design and wording that suits them. This is partly because the ketubah is often framed and displayed after the wedding.

During the signing, the couple is joined by two witnesses, traditionally male and not related to the couple, who will also sign.

How do you book a Jewish wedding ceremony?

To book your Jewish wedding ceremony, visit your local synagogue and speak to your rabbi to discuss what you’d like from your upcoming wedding.

Who plans a Jewish wedding ceremony?

You can plan a Jewish wedding ceremony yourself with help from your rabbi. For the rest of your wedding day, you can plan this yourself or hire a wedding planner to help.

What comes after a Jewish wedding ceremony?

Traditionally, following a Jewish wedding ceremony, the bride and groom are taken to the yihud, which is a private room where they can spend a short period of time together. Many couples choose to eat their first meals as a married couple in the yihud. While inside, witnesses wait outside the door to make sure the couple isn’t disturbed.

Following the yihud, the couple rejoins their guests to take part in a feast, followed by celebrations, drinks and dancing.

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Muslim Wedding Ceremony Guide

Muslim wedding ceremonies are intimate and romantic, and also filled with incredible rituals and traditions that make them wonderful and joyous occasions.

If you’re planning your own ceremony, you might not be sure where to start. Who do you ask to arrange one? Does a ceremony contain a religious service? What’s the order of a Muslim wedding ceremony? What traditions do you want to include and which might you want to adapt?

And, did you know that Muslim wedding traditions vary depending on region?

There are so many questions that if you’re planning your own wedding ceremony it can be complicated and confusing. However, the good news is that it doesn’t have to be. We’re here to answer all of the common questions and make your wedding planning a breeze.

So, in this post, we’re going to go into detail about everything to do with Muslim wedding ceremonies, from how long they last to what happens before, during and after.

For more information about different wedding ceremonies around the UK and beyond, read our ultimate wedding ceremony guide.

What is a Muslim wedding ceremony?

A Muslim wedding ceremony, also known as a nikah, is when a Muslim couple comes together to get married. The ceremony is filled with traditions and rituals, including readings from the Qur’an.

Traditionally, the bride doesn’t need to be present at the nikah so long as she has previously given her express consent and permission. However, in many modern ceremonies, the bride often chooses to be there to share in the celebrations and spend time with her new husband.

What date should you have a Muslim wedding ceremony?

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A Muslim wedding ceremony can take place on any day except for the two days of Eid, known as Eid al-Fitr and Eid al-Adha.

What time does a Muslim wedding ceremony take place?

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There are no specific times for when a nikah should take place. However, it’s common for a nikah to begin around lunchtime, to ensure there’s still plenty of time for the Walima, which is a celebratory feast that usually takes place afterwards.

Is it common for Muslim weddings to include a religious service?

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Yes, during the nikah there are many religious rituals and a sermon, which includes readings from the Qur’an.

How popular are Muslim wedding ceremonies?

As you might assume, Muslim wedding ceremonies are popular within the Muslim community. You can only get married in a nikah if both the bride and groom are Muslim.

What type of couples usually choose a Muslim wedding ceremony?

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Because a nikah is so closely tied to Islam, only couples who are Muslim will choose to have a Muslim wedding ceremony.

Are Muslim weddings expensive?

In the UK, the average cost of a wedding is £19,184, which is relatively in line with the average cost of a Muslim wedding. However, a wedding only needs to be as expensive as your budget allows. It’s more than possible to have a fabulous Muslim wedding for around £4,000 or less. At the same time, for a truly extravagant wedding, you might spend £35,000 or more.

If you’re planning a Muslim wedding but looking to keep costs down, read our guide on how to save money on your wedding for plenty of cost-cutting tips.

How do Muslim wedding ceremonies vary across the world?

Islam is the second-largest religion in the world and spans different cultures and continents. This means, much like other religions, there are variations depending on which region you’re in.

For example, in Middle Eastern Muslim weddings, the bride is presented to the groom, while in South Asian Muslim weddings, the groom is presented to the bride. Similarly, in the Middle East, the Walima is the main post-ceremony celebration, while in South Asia there are two: the Shaadi and the Walima.

Who officiates a Muslim wedding ceremony?

A nikah is usually officiated by an Imam, who is a Muslim cleric, or sometimes a Qazi, an Islamic judge.

Is a Muslim wedding legally binding?

In the UK, a couple who get married in a nikah are married in Islamic law, but aren’t married under UK law. To have a legally recognised marriage, the couple must also have a legal ceremony at a registry office.

Where are Muslim wedding ceremonies held?

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Couples have a wide range of options when it comes to where their nikah might take place. The traditional choice of venue is a mosque, the Muslim place of worship, before moving on to a separate venue in the afternoon and evening for the Walima.

Other couples may choose to get married in different venues, such as a home, hotel or venue space.

How long are Muslim wedding ceremonies?

The nikah will usually last between 30 and 45 minutes, though this can vary depending on the Imam and the number of traditions the couple chooses to incorporate into the ceremony.

Read our guide to how long wedding ceremonies take for more information about the length of different wedding ceremonies.

What words are exchanged at a Muslim wedding ceremony?

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Traditionally, at the nikah, there aren’t many words exchanged between the bride and groom, including vows. Some couples may choose to include vows in their ceremony, but the main word spoken by the couple is the repetition of the word qubool, which means I accept.

If the couple has chosen to exchange vows, there are no legal declaratory or consenting words, so they’re free to be as personal as they like.

Do men and women sit apart at a Muslim wedding ceremony?

Traditionally, men and women will sit apart at a nikah. In some ceremonies, the men and women may even sit in separate rooms.

However, this all depends on your beliefs, culture and preferences. Many modern nikah take place with no gender segregation.

What traditions are there at a Muslim wedding ceremony?

As we’ve already highlighted, there’s a wide range of traditions that take place during Muslim wedding ceremonies. These traditions also differ depending on where in the world you’re from. Below are just some of the most popular nikah traditions from different regions.

South Asian nikah traditions

Mehndi. A pre-ceremony event that brings the bride together with female guests who will design henna patterns on the bride’s hands.
Reading from the Qur’an. The first chapter of the Qur’an is read, called Surah Al-Fatihah.
Arsi Mushaf. A mirror is held between the bride and groom so the groom can see his bride’s face.
Baraat. Traditionally, the groom enters the ceremony on the back of a white horse. However, many modern-day grooms choose a car or carriage.
Joota Chupai. A fun tradition that involves guests hiding the groom’s shoes and holding them until the groom pays a fee.

Middle Eastern nikah traditions

Tolbe. Before the ceremony, the groom asks the bride for her hand in marriage, which is known as the Tolbe.
Maher. The Maher is a gift given by the groom to his bride as a gesture of respect and to mark her independence.

What do you wear at a Muslim wedding?

Traditionally, a Muslim groom would wear an embroidered kurta, a collarless tunic, with pyjamas or churidars. At modern Muslim ceremonies, the groom may choose a sherwani, a long-sleeved coat.

Muslim brides will traditionally wear a salwar kameez, a beautiful combination dress, with a dupatta to cover her head. Other brides may choose to wear a saree or scarf to cover their head.

Guests are expected to dress modestly and avoid bare arms. If the nikah takes place at a mosque, guests will also be asked to remove their shoes as a sign of respect.

What is the order at a Muslim wedding ceremony?

Muslim Wedding Ceremony Order Cheat Sheet — This infographic illustrates a Muslim wedding ceremony order

A nikah usually sticks to a relatively set order, so you’re likely to find that any Muslim wedding you attend will follow the same sort of structure. They do allow for some personalisations, but not as many as other types of wedding ceremonies.

Nikah will follow an order that resembles the following:

1. The tolbe

Ahead of the ceremony itself, the tolbe takes place. This is a short meeting between the groom and the bride’s parents when he asks them for permission to marry their daughter. After receiving permission, everyone joins in saying a prayer called Surah Fatiha.

2. The mehr

A little bit like a traditional dowry, the mehr is a gift given to the bride by her groom. Many brides consider an engagement ring to be the mehr, but if not, she’ll be presented with a gift or money before the ceremony.

3. The consent

The bride and groom are asked three times about whether they consent to the marriage. Each time, they must say qubool hai, which means I accept.

4. The Nikah-Namah

The Muslim marriage contract is called the Nikah-Namah, which the bride and groom both sign. It’s then read aloud by the officiant so all the guests can hear the promise they’re making to each other.

5. The readings

The officiant will read verses from the Qur’an in a short sermon. This is the point when the bride and groom are declared married.

6. Savaqah

The final part of nikah is Savaqah, when gifts are given. This includes throwing money at the bride.

For more information about orders at different types of wedding ceremonies, read our guide to wedding ceremony orders.

How do you book a Muslim wedding ceremony?

Once you’re engaged and looking to plan your nikah, speak to the imam at your local mosque. They can work with you to decide on a date that’s available so you can begin to plan everything else around it, such as a venue for the Walima, transport, decor, flowers and more.

Who plans a Muslim wedding ceremony?

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Traditionally, the parents play a heavy role in planning a nikah. However, many modern Muslim couples like to plan their own wedding, but still welcome input and suggestions from both sets of parents.

Alternatively, you may want to hire a wedding planner, who can take a lot of the work from you. See our post showcasing our Muslim wedding specialists to discover venues and suppliers who specialise in Muslim weddings.

What comes after a Muslim wedding ceremony?

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Traditionally, after the nikah, the bride and groom will join their guests at the Walima, which is a celebration in the same vein as a reception at other types of weddings. However, a Walima often lasts a lot longer than other wedding celebrations, with some lasting up to two days.

Often, the Walima will happen immediately after the nikah, on the same day. Sometimes, though, depending on your preferences and circumstances, it could take place a day or two later.

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