Issue Date: April 29, 2007

Family

Saying "I do" again

Tips for renewing your wedding vows

By Judy Mandell

You've considered renewing your wedding vows but aren't quite sure of the etiquette involved. Unlike a first-time wedding, which often follows elaborate do's and don'ts, renewing vows is open to personal preferences. We asked the experts for a few tips:

The timing. "There's no right time or age. It's whenever you feel like celebrating the marriage," says Sharon Naylor, author of "Renewing Your Wedding Vows" (Broadway Books, $12.95). Big anniversaries are popular, like 10, 25 and 50 years.

The guests. Only invite people who are meaningful to you, not those you feel an obligation to, says April Masini, author and relationship expert (AskApril.com). "Evites are not appropriate," she adds.

The event. "Make it as small or large as you like," Naylor says. The degree of formality is up to you. "You can have a true wedding do-over with lavish catering, or you can have a backyard cookout."

The Vows. "Since this ceremony is not legally binding, anyone who is near and dear to you -- even your kids -- can lead you through your vows," says Diane Forden, editor in chief of "Bridal Guide."

The Gifts. "This isn't an appropriate occasion for restocking your linen closet," Forden says. One option: Suggest a donation to a favorite charity on your behalf.

The clothes. Forden says the "bride" can wear white or any other color. But no "blusher" veil, which still signifies a first-time bride, says Steve Kemble, star of the Style Network's "Whose Wedding Is It Anyway?"