Tomorrow Is Not Promised: Why You Should Renew Your Vows This Year

Claudia Mitchell-McLeod • July 11, 2025

In a world where we hear daily stories of unexpected loss, many couples quietly whisper to themselves, “We’ll celebrate later.” But what if later never comes?

Whether it's a tragedy, a diagnosis, or just the fast pace of life, too many couples miss the chance to celebrate what they’ve built — while they still have the chance.

❤️ Who Says You Have to Wait 25 Years?

At a recent training, I met Sarah and James (names changed), married 12 years. After Sarah's mother passed away suddenly, she told me,

“We always said we’d do a big vow renewal at 25 years. But that shook us. We realized… what if we don’t get 25?”

They decided to celebrate now. Just them and their kids. A simple backyard renewal — handwritten vows, barefoot in the grass, tears and laughter in equal measure.

It wasn’t fancy. It was real — and unforgettable.

🔁 Why Renewing Your Vows Every Year Makes Sense

It creates a rhythm of recommitment. Marriage is a living thing. Celebrating each year adds intention and spiritual strength.
You grow every year — your vows should, too.
Life is unpredictable. Celebrating often ensures no season of love goes unrecognized.
It sets an example. Your marriage becomes a living testimony of love in action.

Think about it: We schedule annual physicals, insurance renewals, and routine inspections—shouldn’t our most important relationship deserve the same attention?

🔄 A New Tradition Worth Keeping: Celebrate Every Year

You don’t need to wait for a milestone anniversary to honor your marriage.

Make it a habit of the heart.

Some years: handwritten vows at the dinner table.

Others: a beachside moment with music and flowers.

And sometimes: the full celebration you didn’t get the first time.

Let this become your new tradition — one where love isn’t taken for granted, but treasured again and again.

Because your spouse shouldn’t just be glad you stayed — they should know that you’d choose them all over again.

✍️ Don’t Know What to Say? Let Me Help.

Many of my couples choose to work with me on crafting custom, heartfelt vows that reflect who they are now.

Whether you want a fresh take on classic promises or help including scripture, I offer custom vow writing as an optional add-on service.

Your words. My guidance.

💕 Keep It Simple with a “Whisper & Promise” Ceremony

This short and simple 10–15 minute vow renewal can be done on the beach, at home, after a date night, or during a vacation.

No paperwork. No pressure. Just presence.

💍 Make It the Wedding You Always Wanted

A vow renewal gives you the chance to do it your way. Ask about our “We Still Do — Dream Wedding Package” — perfect for couples who never had the wedding they wanted.

It includes a customized ceremony, vow support, unity rituals, and vendor referrals.