Present for a Renewal of Vows?

I agree kitty I think it's a strange thing to do. However, we attended a friends 'do' a couple of years ago and took a lovely double white orchid and a card with something suitable scribbled in it. They seemed pleased.After all, they are our age and don't lack anything much!

If you know the other guests, what about a joint gift of a luxury weekend away in a hotel?

Our marriage vows don't need renewing as they haven't expired!

We have people ask to come to church for renewal of wedding vows and I think it a bit odd...what I do think is nice (if you feel the need to do anything) is a reaffirming of vows...

We had a celebration service for our 40 years in our cathedral, with tea in the town hall afterwards and a meal in a restaurant in the evening (for which everyone paid for their own meal) We didn't renew our vows (as we hadn't broken them!) but we did ask our friends and family to promise to support us in the years to come.

We didn't expect any gifts, just wanted to share the day with friends, but we got five Ruby Wedding roses, they do pearl ones onwww.giftaplant.com/shop/30th We also had some lovely vases and quite a few bottles of champagne!

A donation to a charity?

To be honest I can't see the point of renewing vows except as a good excuse for a knees up. And it sounds expensive

I agree with goldengirl - these things seem odd to me and my worst nightmare - when I want to scare DH I tell him I'm planning ours. His response is always the same - I haven't worn my vows out yet have you?
I wouldn't buy them a present.

If anything other than a card - a donation to a charity of their choice. I think it is just an excuse for a rather grand party and have no argument with it as such.

Exactly ! rubysong and others who have said the same thing. A celebration party is all that is needed (if you must ! ) or maybe a service of thanksgiving if one exists.

I must just add, that I was pleased we had taken something because everybody else gave a present of some kind.It only cost us £10 , and they are friends! I really think, if you have to attend one of these things,it's better not to go empty handed. If you are invited somewhere for a meal with friends, you often take flowers or wine or chocs so this is really no different.

Kittylister why was it more embarassing because his dad was a churchman, no man is perfect not even churchmen.

People get drunk all the time especially at weddings.

You say renewal of vows is strange..why so?

I know my post asks alot of questions but forgive me for saying that your post came over as a bit judgemental and being judgemental is my pet hate

KITTY You asked about a present for the couple--If it were me I would try and buy them something associated with were or how they me.

met sorry I meant to say were they met

I think I would go for a card and a charity gift. Something like a tree planted in their name, 'Woodland Trust.

Have to agree with Rubysong though. If it ain't broke, why fix it ?

I dont think its about fixing it, more celebrating it nice happy memories can be made

Thank you all for your replies. DH and I have a summer party in the garden when we have a significant anniversary to celebrate but we don't tell the guests what the party is for so there is no obligation to bring presents!

Being judgmental is one of my pet hates too Paula. Having an opinion on something is a different matter. And, the Bishop was very po-faced and judgmental - which is what made it embarrassing.