When it comes to vow renewals, there are not really a lot of rules. It’s about expressing your love for each other and your continued commitment to your marriage in a way that is uniquely you. However, there are five general do’s and don’ts to keep you on the right track with common etiquette to get you started planning your vow renewal:

Do feel free to wear a white dress. Or any other color that pleases you for that matter!

The days of white being reserved for virgin brides are long gone. You can feel free to wear whatever color, be it white, black, red, champagne or any other color your heart desires. Just select a style that suits your personality, figure, and the style of the vow renewal and makes you feel like a million bucks. If you wore a tulle and taffeta dress the first time that made you feel like a big marshmallow, now if your chance to go with something fitted and sophisticated.

Do have attendants, if you want.

Some couples opt for the same people who were in their original bridal party. Or perhaps you have a new set of close friends that you want to stand up with you. It’s also a great idea to have your children participate and stand up with you as your attendants, flower girls, or ring bearers depending on their ages. When it comes to dresses and tuxes, you should pay for them. If you can’t afford it, go with common colors and let them select something they can wear again or already have. Most ladies have a nice black cocktail dress or could use one. A black suit and white dress shirt tend to be a staple in a man’s wardrobe. Simply add coordinating ties!

Do include your kids in the celebration.

In addition to having them be part of the wedding party, you can also use this as an opportunity to reinforce your love for them. Make family memories by including them in the ceremony with a unity candle or sand ceremony.

Do have whatever style of reception you want.

Plan the reception the two of you really wanted the first time but didn’t quite turn out the way you hoped the first time. This time there’s no demanding mother or mother-in-law controlling the purse strings. If you can afford it, you can do it! Just about any type of reception goes for a vow renewal, however, you don’t want a repeat of your wedding. Follow your dreams, whether they are for a black tie affair in a ballroom, an intimate family gathering in the backyard, or a romantic destination celebration under the shade of a tent overlooking the ocean. Remember, you don’t have to limit yourself just because you’ve done it all before.

Don’t expect gifts.

This is a vow renewal, not a wedding. While it’s not appropriate to put “no gifts” on your invitations, you shouldn’t expect to receive any. Your gift is the presence of your friends and family sharing in your special day.

Pre-parties?

Basically no on all accounts.

Bachelor and bachelorette parties are not acceptable under any circumstances. You’re married and no longer a bachelor or bachelorette.

Bridal showers are also not acceptable. You are married and presumably have a home together.

Now that you’ve read all the “do’s and don’ts,” get planning!