My husband and I are retired and recently celebrated our 30th with a "renewal of vows" ceremony. It doesn't have to break the bank.

We planned a year in advance and saved money just for that occasion. I wore a secondhand wedding gown. My daughter and I shopped for decorations (instead of flowers) at the dollar store. It was beautiful.

Since I am retired military, I was able to use the chapel and the club on base, which was quite reasonable. But there are all kinds of other relatively inexpensive options for a reception — local fire hall, church basement or, in the summer, a public park.

My grown children are musicians, and they "gifted" us with their music at the chapel. We hired a DJ — which didn't cost much — and friends took photos and videos for us.

Abby, our first wedding was nice, but it was mostly for others. Our second wedding was for me and my husband — and it was everything we hoped it would be. —Bobbie in Norristown, Pa.

Dear Abby: You don't have to spend a lot of money for a renewal of vows. If you belong to a church, it will usually donate use of its social hall or sanctuary. The church surely will have some talented members who can help with decorations. Food shouldn't be a problem — you can do punch/coffee/cake for less than $50. The entire event could be handled for under $300.

To Steve W.'s "children": Think of your parents. You don't know how long you'll have them. Chip in (yes, use some of YOUR money) and make this a memorable occasion for them. —Becki in Garden Grove, Calif.

Dear Abby: We asked our new priest if he would give us a special blessing on our 45th. To our surprise, we were called up to the altar after Mass, and he renewed our vows in front of the entire congregation.