VOW RENEWALS FAQs

A vow renewal is a meaningful ceremony where a married couple celebrate their relationship and reaffirm their promises to one another. Many couples choose a vow renewal to mark a special anniversary, celebrate everything they have shared, or simply take time to honour their marriage in a memorable setting. 

Yes, absolutely. Your vow renewal can be a private ceremony for just the two of you, making it a wonderfully intimate way to celebrate your marriage at Gretna Green. 

Yes, you are very welcome to invite family and friends to share your day. Whether you are planning a quiet ceremony or a bigger celebration, your vow renewal can be shaped around what feels right for you. 

You can invite up to 60 guests, depending on your chosen ceremony room. This gives you the flexibility to plan anything from a small gathering to a larger family celebration. 

Your vow renewal can be led by either a minister or a registrar, depending on the style of ceremony you would prefer. This gives you the freedom to choose the atmosphere that feels most meaningful to you. 

The ceremony itself usually lasts around 30 minutes. With time for photographs and to enjoy the moment afterwards, most couples allow up to an hour for the full experience. 

No, a vow renewal is not legally binding. It is a symbolic ceremony that gives you the chance to celebrate your marriage, reflect on your journey together, and make new promises in a personal and romantic way. 

Yes, your ceremony can be personalised in lots of ways. From your vows and readings to music and symbolic touches, there are many ways to make your vow renewal at Gretna Green feel unique to you. 

Yes, readings are a lovely way to make your ceremony more personal. Many couples choose words that reflect their relationship, their family, or the life they have built together. 

Yes, you can include music in your ceremony. Many couples choose a special song for their entrance, a meaningful moment during the ceremony, or their exit together afterwards. 

Yes, of course. Some couples love repeating the vows they first made on their wedding day, especially when celebrating in a place as romantic and historic as Gretna Green. 

Yes, you can write new vows if you would prefer. Many couples choose to create new promises that reflect the life, memories, and commitment they now share. 

No, rings are completely optional. You may choose to use your original rings, exchange new ones, or not include rings at all.

Yes, you can include a handfasting as part of your vow renewal. Handfasting is a traditional Scottish ritual that symbolises the joining together of two lives and adds a distinctive, meaningful touch to the ceremony.

Yes, many couples choose to include Scottish traditions in their ceremony. A vow renewal at Gretna Green can include touches such as handfasting, helping your celebration feel even more connected to Scotland and the story of the place itself. 

We always recommend booking as early as possible. The sooner you book, the more choice you will have for ceremony dates, ceremony rooms, and accommodation. 

Yes, it is possible to book at short notice because a vow renewal does not have the same legal notice requirements as a wedding. However, availability can be limited, so booking ahead is always the best option. 

There is no best time of year. Gretna Green hosts vow renewals throughout the year, so you can choose the season that feels most special to you, whether that is spring, summer, autumn, or winter. 

You really only need to bring yourselves. If you would like to add personal touches to your ceremony, you are welcome to bring vows, rings, readings, or any small details that will make the day feel even more special. 

Yes, you will be supported by a ceremony host who will guide you through the process and help with the details. They will make sure you feel looked after and have everything you need during your stay. 

Yes, children are very welcome. Many couples choose to include children and grandchildren, making the day feel even more special as a family celebration. 

Yes, dogs are welcome in all ceremony rooms. They are not permitted in the function rooms or restaurant, but they are welcome in the lounge at Smiths Hotel and in selected areas around the Famous Blacksmiths site, including the Village Kitchen, Big Scottish Shop, and Museum. 

Yes, photography can be part of your day. Photography is included in the Platinum vow renewal package, and you are also welcome to arrange your own photographer. 

Yes, many couples choose to continue the celebration after their ceremony. Our packages include either a two-course or three-course meal, and if you are planning a larger gathering we can also help arrange function room hire and entertainment. 

Yes, all of our vow renewal packages include either a two-course or three-course meal at one of our four-star hotels. It is a lovely way to relax and enjoy the occasion together after your ceremony. 

Yes, overnight accommodation is included in selected packages. Couples celebrating at Gretna Green can choose packages that include a one-night or two-night stay, turning the occasion into a romantic break as well as a ceremony. 

Yes, many couples choose to make their vow renewal part of a longer stay. Extra nights can be added if you would like more time to relax, celebrate, and explore Gretna Green and the surrounding area. 

Gretna Green is one of the most famous and romantic places in Britain associated with love and marriage. Renewing your vows here allows you to celebrate your relationship in a setting known for romance, history, Scottish character, and unforgettable moments.

Gretna Green is known around the world as a historic wedding destination. It became famous for runaway marriages and remains a powerful symbol of love, commitment, and celebrating a relationship in a truly memorable place. 

Yes, absolutely. You do not need to have been married at Gretna Green originally to renew your vows here. Many couples choose Gretna Green for their vow renewal because they want to celebrate in a place with such strong romantic history, no matter where their wedding took place. 

A vow renewal at Gretna Green is about more than the ceremony itself. It is the chance to celebrate your marriage in an iconic Scottish setting, enjoy special traditions, and become part of a love story that has drawn couples here for generations. 

Yes, there are several ways to make your ceremony feel more Scottish. Adding a handfasting is one of the most popular choices, and it creates a celebration that feels rooted in both place and tradition. 

Yes, many couples turn their vow renewal into a short break and spend time exploring while they are here. From the Famous Blacksmiths Shop and museum to shopping, food, and the wider local area, there is plenty to enjoy as part of your stay.