[LindseyLu1219]

Hi! Because of overseas assignments away from each other, my husband and I chose to elope a little over a year ago. We both have just transferred back to the United States and would now like to have a vow renewal/welcome home reception with our friends and family. The vow renewal is really more for our parents and grandparents and we plan to make it very small with only immediate family. Then we want to have a large reception with all of our friends and extended family. (Which I read was ok on here, so thanks [])

I'm a little confused on the best way to organize the party though. I feel like there should be something that is the focal point of the evening. It is not an anniversary party because my sister is getting married very close to our second anniversary; we're 6 months off to avoid stepping on her toes. Because the vow renewal is not a part of the event for most people involved, I had envisioned a sit down dinner, but it is so much more expensive than a buffet dinner. My husband and I are in the process of buying a house, cars, etc, so we don't want to be *too* elaborate. Do you have an recommendations for things that we could do to be sure that the event feels cohesive and does not seem chaotic or disorganized? Thanks in advance for your help.

[the_admin]

It's a little early for a renewal, after all, what are you renewing? Vow renewal ceremonies are not wedding do-overs. They are usually done for major marriage milestones.
It's recommended to have a reception to celebrate the wedding that has already occurred within one year. That reception can be planned like a typical reception, however, you may want to leave out elements that feel odd such as throwing the bouquet and first dance as husband and wife (since, obviously, you've been married a while and it's assumed you've already danced, etc) You'll want to set a budget first, then a guest list and then you can decide on a venue and menu. This reception can be as formal or informal as you wish or as it suits your budget. Match the formality to the time of day.

[Etiquette Now]

Actually, since your event will not be within the first year, (nearly your second anniversary) it is more of an anniversary party. Unless the anniversary is a bench mark anniversary, these parties are private. However, yours is also a "welcome" home affair since both of you have been gone since you were married. So, it would be best to focus on that aspect. Make that your focus and try to stay away from focusing on your anniversary or a reception theme.

You really don't have to provide a sit down dinner if this is held during a time when a dinner is not expected. So host this during a time when guests would expect lighter fare.

[the_admin]

Thanks for pointing out the time frame, Rebecca. I missed that it would be more than a year. Sorry for leading you astray.