Mom & Dad vow renewal

I think that sounds like an amazing idea. Could maybe get your dad involved if you want your mom completely surprised.

The part I am unsure of really falls on if I should just plan the whole thing and surprise her the day of? Or if I should let her plan and I'll pay? My dad is one of those guys that kind of just rolls with the punches, so I know he'll be good with whatever I decide. I was hoping to save her the stress of full wedding planning if possible.

I love it!!!

This is such a sweet idea! Maybe clue both of your parents in and let them know not to make any plans for that day? That way you can plan the surprise, but not have them completely caught off guard?

On the other hand, planning a (simple )vow renewal might make her giddy with joy. Personally I wouldn't do it as a surprise cuz that would be TWO times she missed out on planning their super special day with all the trimmings (so to speak ).

So my mom has always dreamed of being on the beach for her vow renewal. We take a family vacation around that time every year to Florida so I was thinking about telling my dad whats going on and then telling my mom that we are taking family pictures (my way of forcing her to look her best/wear white).

I think that would be great @MrsSpenc. That way you already have the dates because you will all be in FL anyway. I think your mom would be amazed at the surprise.

Thanks guys! I was second guessing if I would be stepping on her toes but I feel way better about it now. I'm super excited! I'll do my best to keep WW updated.

I would talk to your parents about it. Meet them for dinner and then say to them that you want to help them have the vow renewal with everything they couldn't have at their wedding. See what they say and go from there. I don't think this is something that should be a complete surprise to your mom. But if she wants to be surprised and have you plan it, at least she is aware of what is happening.

That sounds like a great idea! How thoughtful of you!

MrsSpenc, I've officiated several surprise vow renewals. Some have been arranged by the children and some by the spouse. I usually suggest planning a 'family beach portrait' so everyone knows to be on time and dressed nicely to go to dinner afterward. Sometimes, I've even posed as the photographer (with my dinky little camera, LOL).

If your mom likes to plan, let her plan everything else (vacation, family beach portrait, dinner), and on the sly you can arrange for an officiant to meet the family on the beach (I have literally walked up to a family and asked, "Would anyone like to renew their wedding vows?").

Maybe you could plan most of it but surprise her by having her meet you at a bridal shop to pick out her dress. Then tell her you planned the vow renewal.

It's so sweet of you! But, if at all possible, have a light-hearted (sneaky) conversation with her about all the special things she would want if she were planning it now. You wouldn't want to leave something out that she's secretly dreaming of.

Aw so sweet! But I would definitely include them in the planning bc she probably has things she was dreaming of