So, speculation about Tom and Katie’s legality of vows is over. As it turns out, they were already married before all this began.

Last week, Tom and Katie got married in a civil ceremony in Los Angeles because the Catholic church wouldn’t allow what they wanted–a Scientology wedding. Although some articles are derided what they did as a “party,” it was a vow renewal.

Vow renewals give couples an opportunity to share those vows with friends and family when a small ceremony was held before, which happens for many reasons.

Barry and Amber are planning a vow renewal for his return from Africa with the Navy (be safe, Barry!).

Tara and Rich are hoping to incorporate a vow renewal with their reception next year so their families can take part in something special to them. To make the vow renewal more meaningful, they are even planning a new ring exchange with bands they could not get in time for the ceremony this time.

Consider a vow renewal a chance to repeat the vows you have already taken, or an opportunity to say what you wanted to say the first time. Those who are renewing vows after many years of marriage may want to include events from those years as part of the ceremony, along with children that came as a result (and grandchildren!). Rather than dismissing a vow renewal as a “party,” see your vow renewal as another chance to connect with your spouse as well as your friends and family.