What is proper etiquette for gift giving for renewing wedding vows? I've been invited and confused what to do?

A co-worker has invited me to her renewal of wedding vows. What is the proper etiquette in this matter? Do I give a gift or not? What is the proper attire? She is wearing a hawaiin dress that ties like a halter at the neck and some flowers around her head and ankle. Her husband is going to wear a lei. I've never been invited to one of these so I'm uncertain of the proper etiquette(s). The ceremony will be held in her home with approx. 50-75 guests.

What is proper etiquette for gift giving for renewing wedding vows? I've been invited and confused what to do?
A gift is unnecessary, but it would be appreciated I'm sure. Think of it as an anniversarry gift if you want to give one. As for attire, it sounds casual. I wouldn't wear jeans, but a casual skirt or slacks and button down shirt/blouse is fine.
Reply:casual dress...... not shorts im sure. and I would just take a nice bottle of wine. they already have everything else. It is just about renewing their vows. Go and celebrate with them.
Reply:Renewing of vows is not considered a gift giving event. But it is appropriate to give if desired. Go to website in source for other help too.
Reply:well never been to one of those but it would seem like common curtousy to bring something along =) the second question is how well acqauinted are u with her?
Reply:I would wear Hawaiian Attire also. As far as a gift, I would probably give them a gift card to a popular restaurant.
Reply:Sounds like a Hawaiin dress would be fine, a halter top, or a dressy sundress suitable for evening would be fine.

I would imagine that a gift is expected, though I personally would spend according to how well you know her, and as you might for an anniversary.

Check the religious gift stores for ideas, somebody surely makes a keepsake that says something about renewal vows, a collector's plate or the like. Barring that, something keepsake in crystal, or a nice picture frame. Gee,if you could find it, one of those box of fruit sent out every couple months clubs , if you could find one that did tropical fruits or pineapple, that would be cool, and different, or just send it out once. The company sends out a card to the recipient, saying it is coming. For you, cut out a picture of it, or copy it off the internet, and put that in a card, saying this is what they are going to get. I know Figi's does fruit, don't know the names of any others.
Reply:It looks like a Hawaiian theme affair, so go in something floral. Since it is a renewal of vows, you need not give any gifts. A card congratulating them will do.
Reply:Gifts for a renewal ceremony and reception are not necessary - if you want to give a gift that is OK too. A card would be fine if you wish.
Reply:I owned a wedding chapel in California for ten years. I disagree with most of the people answering. A gift is in order unless the invitation states otherwise. They probably have a home, etc., so a token gift certificate for a restaurant, a donation to a charity would be appropriate(Hymnals to their church in their name, or some such thing).



You should check into whether the hosts want the guests to "dress tropical" or not. If it isn't common knowledge that they are in Hawaiian theme, they may not appreciate others copying it OR they may expect everyone to dress Hawaiian. I would definitely ASK on that part of your question.



ADDITIONAL: I do not believe the ignorance of most of these people! One simply does not show up for a party celebrating something empty handed! Some gift should be brought.
Reply:This usually not a gift giving occasion. Do you know anyone else invited? Perhaps they will know what is expected. I would find expected 'gift giving' a bit tacky to say the least. But, if that is the case, I would say an inexpensive bottle of wine or box of candy, nuts, breads..
Reply:No gift-giving for renewal of vows. They have already set up housekeeping so gifts are not necessary and, in my humble opinion, would be tacky. A card expressing your warm wishes is appropriate.



If the bride and groom are dressing casually, then you should too. A sun dress or similar casual dress would be appropriate.