What is the difference between a marriage ceremony, an affirmation of love or renewal of vows, and a commitment ceremony?
Despite what others might think or tell you, all of these types of ceremonies are similar in that they are used to express love and commitment to another. For a marriage ceremony, you must first obtain a marriage license, which gives the legal component to the ceremony. Ceremonies to affirm love or renew vows are not legal ceremonies and do not require any license. They are typically done at special anniversaries, when a couple reunites after a separation, or perhaps even after a life-altering event, but any time is a good time to re-affirm your love and commitment to each other. These services can be even more special than the initial wedding, because as years go by, there are so many memories and loving moments to reflect upon. A commitment ceremony is the term most often used when same-gender couples wish to express their love and devotion in a public way. In the case of gay or lesbian commitment ceremonies, I believe the same thing as for my more “traditional” couples: it is YOUR c
