In just three days I will be marrying my husband for the second time. Ten years ago on September 12, 2004 we got married for the first time, in front of family, friends and of course, God. It was the fairy tale wedding I had dreamed of for most of my life. This second wedding, commonly referred to as a “Vow Renewal” will run a close second. I should know. I planned it all, just like I did ten years ago.
When I decided to take this on I thought, “How hard could it be? It’s just a vow renewal, not like a real wedding!” It didn’t take long for me to see the errors in my thinking. It has been EXACTLY like planning a real wedding – only back then I had more help!
In 2004 we picked our invitations and my husband’s brother-in-law who ran a printing business, printed them all. This time I created the invitations myself, using Shutterfly. This was more expensive but very personal.
We purchased a wedding package in 2004 that included the venue, food and the cake. This time it is at our home which meant that I had to find a caterer, chose a cake (I actually decided on cupcakes), rent the tables, chairs, linens and dance floor. You get the idea. Not cheap, but in the long run considerably less expensive than the first wedding.
Just shy of 60 people (including children) will be attending. My husband says not everyone will show up. I’m sure he is right. I’m hoping he is wrong.
All in all it has been an enjoyable process. But it’s easy to lose sight of the deeper meaning. This is not just a party, it is two people (Bill & I) saying we want to stay with each other so much that we would go through it all over again.
As you know, marriage is not the party, the guests, the cake or the music. It is an everyday lesson in giving, compromise, trusting, friendship, commitment and love, mostly love. And it’s something you work on every day, some days more than others. It’s not the fairy tale you listened to as a child but it can become something so much bigger and better. It just takes work and a good sense of humor.
Now, back to the party!
New dress, new shoes, a beautiful new hat. Check. Flowers for the tables. Check Great dance music, both fast and slow. Check Wine, beer, good food. Check Photographer Check Spending at least the next ten years with a man who can still make my toes curl………………………PRICELESS!
Here’s to the next ten years! :))