Personal Vows | Tips + Inspiration
Writing Your Own Vows | Tips and Inspiration for a Truly Personal Ceremony
One of the most heartfelt moments in any wedding ceremony is when couples exchange their own vows. Writing your own vows allows you to speak directly from the heart, sharing your unique promises and feelings in a way that resonates deeply with you and your partner. If you’re thinking about crafting your own vows, here are some tips and inspiration to help you create something truly special.
Why Write Your Own Vows?
Personal Connection: Your vows reflect your unique relationship, values, and journey together.
Authenticity: Speaking your own words creates a genuine and emotional moment for you and your guests.
Memorable Keepsake: Your vows become a treasured reminder of your commitment and love.
Tips for Writing Your Own Vows
1. Start Early
Give yourself plenty of time to reflect and write. Starting early reduces pressure and allows your words to evolve naturally.
2. Reflect on Your Relationship
Think about what makes your relationship special.
What qualities do you love most about your partner?
What moments have shaped your journey together?
3. Be Honest and Authentic
Speak from the heart. It’s okay to be vulnerable, funny, or poetic—whatever feels true to you.
4. Keep It Manageable
Aim for about 1-2 minutes when spoken aloud. This keeps your vows meaningful without feeling overwhelming.
5. Include Promises
Vows are about commitment, so include specific promises that reflect your intentions for your marriage.
6. Use “I” Statements
Start with “I promise,” “I vow,” or “I will” to make your commitments clear and personal.
7. Practice Reading Aloud
Rehearse your vows to get comfortable with the words and pacing. This also helps you gauge timing.
8. Coordinate With Your Partner
Decide together if you want your vows to complement each other or have a particular theme. You don’t need to share your vows beforehand unless you want to! Your Celebrant can let you know if your vows don’t “match”.
Inspiration to Get You Started
Here are some ideas to spark your creativity:
Share a Story: Recall a meaningful moment or turning point in your relationship.
Express Gratitude: Tell your partner what you appreciate most about them.
Make Specific Promises: “I promise to support your dreams,” or “I vow to laugh with you in good times and comfort you in bad.”
Include a Quote or Poem: Incorporate a line that resonates with your relationship.
Look to the Future: Speak about your hopes and dreams as a couple.
Sample Vow Starters
“From the moment we met…”
“I promise to always…”
“You make me feel…”
“Together, we will…”
“I vow to be your partner in…”
Final Thoughts
Writing your own vows is a beautiful way to personalise your wedding ceremony and express your love in your own words. Remember, there’s no “right” or “wrong” way to do it—what matters most is that your vows come from the heart. Remember, your vows are for you to share with your partner. If you’d like help crafting your vows or want some guidance along the way, many wedding celebrants offer support and resources to make this special part of your ceremony stressfree and meaningful.
Happy writing!