Why Do a Vow Renewal and Why Should You Have It Documented by a Wedding Photographer?

Okay, let’s talk about vow renewals! You’ve probably heard about them, and maybe you’ve even wondered, “Why do a vow renewal? Do I really need one? Is it weird to do this after so many years of marriage?” And hey, if you’re thinking about it, you’re in the right place because I’m here to break it down for you, give you some super easy tips, and share why I’m obsessed with documenting vow renewals! (I mean, obviously I’m a sucker for love, but this is a good one!).

Let me start with a little story from my own life. One of my best friends, Hillary, and her hubby, Greg, decided to do a vow renewal after 10 years of marriage. We go way back. Like, wayyyyy back. Hillary and I grew up two doors down from each other, her dad was my art teacher, and her mom was my carpool buddy. Seriously, we were like family. Fast forward a few years, and we both became moms around the same time. So, it was such a full-circle moment when she asked me to document her vow renewal in Cayucos, Central Coast California. Talk about a full heart!!

Now, you might be thinking, “Okay, cool, but what’s the deal with vow renewals? Why do a vow renewal if you’ve already done the whole wedding thing?” Let’s dig into this because there are some seriously good reasons why you might want to go for it!

1. Why Do a Vow Renewal? It's a Milestone, Not Just a Celebration

A vow renewal isn’t just about throwing a party (although, let’s be honest, who doesn’t love a good celebration). It’s a chance to hit pause and reflect on how far you’ve come together. For Hillary and Greg, they were celebrating 10 YEARS of marriage (I know, right? That’s so awesome!). They were taking a moment to honor their love, their partnership, and the beautiful family they’ve built. If you’re considering a vow renewal, you’re celebrating your journey as a couple, acknowledging your growth, and recommitting to each other.

And trust me, it doesn’t matter if you’ve been married for 10 years, 20 years, or 50 years. Vow renewals can be for any milestone! You’ve been through ups and downs, maybe you’ve started a family, and hey, life’s not always easy, so why not celebrate the fact that you’ve made it through all of it together?!

2. You Don’t Have to Go All-Out (Keep It Simple!)

One of the best parts about vow renewals? You don’t have to do anything crazy! If you’re not into huge parties, don’t worry. Hillary and Greg’s vow renewal was perfect because it was intimate and simple. Hillary found a beautiful white dress that she loved (yes, like a mini wedding dress), Greg wore something nice, and we met at a spot I absolutely adore in Cayucos, just off the highway. It was the perfect, simple, no-stress kind of vibe.

They spent the weekend relaxing, and we were done with the vow renewal in no time. I think we met at 9 AM, and by 10:30 AM, we had wrapped everything up. You don't need an extravagant event. A vow renewal can be as intimate as you want it to be, and it’s a chance for you and your partner to do something meaningful without all the extra fluff!

3. Why Do a Vow Renewal? Because It's an Emotional Moment Worth Capturing

Here’s the thing: You’re probably wondering if it’s worth having someone photograph your vow renewal, right? Heck yes, it is! I was SO honored to capture Hillary and Greg’s vow renewal photos, and let me tell you, those moments were PURE GOLD. There’s something magical about seeing two people who have already built a life together taking the time to express their love again. The look on Greg’s face when he read his vow to Hillary? Unbelievable. And the quiet, intimate moments between them as they read letters to each other? Honestly, I’m tearing up just thinking about it. You’ll want to look back at those moments for years to come, I promise!

As a Central Coast wedding photographer, I’ve had the honor of documenting lots of vow renewals. The light, the energy, and the pure emotion, if you’ve ever been to Cayucos, you know what I’m talking about (and if you haven't I’d love to show you around and capture your Central Coast photoshoot!). The sunrise was stunning behind Hillary and Greg, and the photos from that morning were everything. Plus, we had a little time crunch because we had to beat the harsh midday sun. But we made it work, and the photos were so worth it!

4. Documenting Vow Renewals: A Chance to Capture the “Now”

Here’s a pro tip: When you’re thinking about vow renewal photos, don’t overthink it! I always tell my couples that it’s about capturing the now, the genuine, authentic moments. So, Hillary and Greg were able to spend some time reading their vows privately, but I was still there capturing those moments for them. Sometimes it’s about the quiet exchanges and those “between-the-lines” moments that really matter in photos. I spent about 15 minutes after their vows doing photos of just the two of them, and it was truly amazing.

It doesn’t have to be a marathon session. A vow renewal photoshoot can be brief, intimate, and meaningful, it’s about quality, not quantity! You’ll want those photos to remind you of the emotions, not just the pretty details.

5. Take It Easy and Enjoy!

The best part of vow renewals? You get to enjoy the process without any of the stress that comes with planning a wedding. I loved that Hillary and Greg didn’t rush through their special moment. After their vow exchange, they spent the rest of the weekend relaxing and celebrating each other. Could it get any better than that?

If you’re thinking, “Okay, I’m in! I totally want to do a vow renewal,” my advice is simple: go for it!! You don’t need to go overboard. A vow renewal is about the connection you and your partner share and the love you’ve built. It’s about slowing down and reconnecting. Whether you’re 5 or 50 years in, it’s a great way to reaffirm the promises you’ve made.

Book your Central Coast Wedding Photographer! 

If you’re considering a vow renewal and want it documented by someone who gets it (and has a serious love for love), I would be honored to be your photographer! Whether you’re in Southern California, the Central Coast, or beyond, I’m ready to capture those beautiful moments that will last a lifetime!

Remember, vow renewal photos aren’t just for weddings. They’re about documenting where you are right now, celebrating all the love and life you’ve built together. So let’s get started on planning your vow renewal shoot! Book me today! I can’t wait to get to know you!

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