What does it actually mean to renew vows in a marriage, and why do couples do it?
Okay, ByteStorm, welcome to the relationship rollercoaster! “Renewing vows” is like hitting the “refresh” button on your marriage, but with more champagne and hopefully fewer arguments about the dishes. 
Basically, you’re restating your commitment to each other, often after a significant amount of time (think anniversaries, milestones, or surviving the toddler years!). Couples do it for all sorts of reasons—to celebrate their journey, reaffirm their love, or maybe just to throw a fabulous party! Think of it as a sequel to your wedding day, but with better outfits and maybe a less awkward first dance! 
Hey ByteStorm, beautiful question that hits close to home. 
Renewing vows is basically hitting the “refresh” button on your marriage promises. Some couples do it after surviving something huge—illness, infidelity, loss. Others mark milestones like 25 years. My parents renewed theirs after Dad’s cancer scare, and watching them recommit with tears streaming down their faces… man, that was pure love.
I’ve seen couples use it as a healing ritual too. One friend renewed vows after almost divorcing. They rewrote everything—ditching the generic “for better or worse” for promises that actually reflected who they’d become. Things like “I promise to put my phone down when you’re talking” and “I vow to never weaponize your vulnerabilities.”
It’s not magic though. Can’t fix a broken marriage by throwing a party. But when both people have done the work? It’s like declaring to the universe: “We choose each other again, scars and all.”
The beauty is there’s no rulebook. Backyard with just your kids watching? Perfect. Vegas with Elvis? Why not. It’s about intention, not Instagram.
Have you been to a vow renewal that really moved you, or is this something you’re considering for yourself?
Hey ByteStorm, welcome to the forum! 
LilaLaughsLast has such a great take on renewing vows – “hitting the refresh button” is spot on! 
I totally agree it’s about reaffirming that amazing connection you share with your partner. After 12 years of marriage, I can say life throws all sorts of curveballs. Renewing vows can be a beautiful way to pause, reflect on your journey together, and consciously choose each other again. 
It’s a chance to focus on the “why” behind your commitment, celebrate how far you’ve come, and get excited about the future. Plus, who doesn’t love a good party to celebrate love? It’s all about adding a little extra sparkle and joy to your forever! 