Planning the Perfect Vow Renewal or Commitment Ceremony: My Tips and Trends

Hey lovebirds! Whether you’re celebrating 5, 15, or 50 years together, a vow renewal or commitment ceremony is the ultimate way to say, “I still choose you.”

It’s about honouring your journey with style, heart, and most importantly your personality. Forget the cookie-cutter “must-dos.” Let’s dive into how you can make this celebration as unique as your love story.

1. Lean Into Emotional Connection

I recently worked with a couple who surprised their travel buddies with a destination vow renewal in stunning Swansea, Tasmania. It was intimate - the couple, their sister, and her partner. 

Simple. Heartfelt. Perfect. 

These ceremonies remind us that love, stripped back to its core, is all about connection.

2. Embrace Your Unique Circumstances

Your love story unfolds at its own pace, and that's what makes a vow renewal or commitment ceremony so special. Take one of the couples I’m currently working with, for example. They're planning a private, meaningful, and budget-friendly commitment ceremony during a cruise stop in Hobart. They're choosing to celebrate their love now and save the big wedding for another time.

3. Choose the Perfect Spot for your Ceremony

Hobart and its surrounds are teeming with stunning locations, whether you’re dreaming of beaches, mountains, chic urban vibes or perhaps graffiti is your vibe?

Perhaps you're dreaming of sand between your toes, lush grass under your feet, or reaching for the clouds atop the mountain? Hobart’s got you covered.

Beaches

There’s nothing like sand between your toes and the ocean as your backdrop.

• Seven Mile Beach: 

  Long and sandy, perfect for gatherings of any size.

• Bellerive Beach:

  Stunning views of Mount Wellington and a chilled-out vibe.
  

Mount Wellington (kunanyi)

If you’re craving adventure, exchange your vows with sweeping views at sunrise or sunset. It’s breathtakingly epic.

Charleen and Keeley recently eloped to The Chalet on Pinnacle Road, high above Hobart. Their intimate, relaxed ceremony captured the raw beauty of the mountain. Later, they celebrated with an unforgettable party surrounded by friends and family.

Parks and Gardens

If lush greenery is more your style, Hobart has plenty of serene spots:

• Waterworks Reserve: 

  Quiet, surrounded by nature.

• Cornelian Bay: 

  Iconic boatsheds and gorgeous Derwent views.

• Cascade Gardens: 

  Romantic, tree-lined, and peaceful.

• Knocklofty Reserve: 

  Rustic, with stunning views over the city

Want something chic? Hobart’s hidden bars in Salamanca or the waterfront bring a sophisticated, relaxed vibe.

Need tailored location ideas? Let’s chat!

4. Make It Personal

This is your day, so go all in on what makes it yours. Whether it’s involving your kids, fur babies, or adding a unique ritual, the sky’s the limit.

Here are a few ideas:

• Reusing Your Wedding Bands: Exchange them again to honour their journey with you.

• Handfasting Ceremony: A meaningful tradition symbolizing unity.

• Mixing Drinks: Create a custom cocktail or share a cheeky unity shot to represent your partnership.

5. Write Your Own Vows

Your vows are the heart of the ceremony, so make them you. Whether you’re heartfelt, funny, or both, speak from the heart. Or, if you’re feeling nostalgic, reaffirm the vows you made on your wedding day.

This is your chance to bring on the tears, the laughs, or both….. whatever fits your love story and personalities best.

6. Capture the Moment

You’ll want to look back on this day, so consider hiring a professional photographer or videographer. Candid shots and emotional moments are worth every cent.

7. Include Your Loved Ones

Your ceremony can celebrate more than just your love, it can honour the life you’ve built together. Involve your kids, grandkids, or pets in the ceremony. Whether they walk with you, hold the rings, or help with vow cards, their participation will add warmth and connection.

8. Keep It Fun and Relaxed

This isn’t about perfection, it’s about celebrating your love in your own way. 

Dance like no one’s watching, laugh until your cheeks hurt, and savour every moment. Whether it’s a barefoot beach party, a swanky city soirée, or a backyard BBQ, make it your vibe.

Why Commitment Ceremonies and Vow Renewals Are So Special

The beauty of these ceremonies is their freedom. No legalities. No witnesses. No pressure. Just you two, celebrating your love on your terms.

Why I Love These Moments

There’s something magical about seeing couples pause and reflect on their journey together. It’s a reminder that love isn’t just the big moments, it’s in the everyday magic of choosing each other, over and over again.

Ready to Celebrate?

Ready to start planning a ceremony that’s uniquely yours? Drop me a message today, and let’s bring your love story to life.