Making the decision to write your wedding vows offers you the opportunity to give your ceremony a close and personal vibe. By sharing how your significant other makes you feel, you can tell everyone present just how important the bond you have is. Of course, knowing exactly what to say can prove difficult in some cases. It is OK to share personal details or add humor? Explore these tips to gain insight into crafting the perfect wedding vows.
Have a Conversation in Advance
Most couples write their vows individually so that there is an element of surprise when the words are spoken aloud for the first time during the ceremony. However, you should still lay out some ground rules in advance. For example, you might want to keep the mood light and infuse humor into your vows. Talking this through before you write your final draft will ensure you’re both on the same page regarding tone and flow.
Always verify with your venue whether they allow personalized vows. Certain religious institutions do not allow couples to deviate from traditional scripts, so it is best to be sure before you begin writing.
Look at a Variety of Examples
Look at examples of custom vows. While you don’t have to directly copy the templates you see, having a general idea of what others have written will be helpful. Additionally, reviewing examples can help you determine how long the vows should be. According to wedding experts, the vows should run about six minutes altogether. This gives each of you about two or three minutes for your own part of the exchange.
Be Tasteful
While there are likely countless stories about your partner that you may want to share in your vows, not all of them will be appropriate for this special moment. When debating over which anecdotes to use, consider whether your partner will be embarrassed by the inclusion. As a rule of thumb, your best bet is to share memories that made you realize how much you loved your partner. By focusing on tales that center on your admiration and devotion, you are most likely to make your significant other feel special and seen.
Find Inspiration in Your Relationship’s History
If you encounter writer’s block while attempting to create your vows, there are a few simple steps to find inspiration. First, go through photos of your relationship. Taking a trip into the past can help you remember special moments that did not immediately come to mind. You can also achieve this by looking through mementos from your years together. From birthday cards to trinkets you purchased for one another while on vacation, many sentimental items can jog your memory and help you to create emotionally powerful vows.
Practice Reading the Vows
Finally, dedicate time to reading your vows aloud before your wedding day. Hearing the words will help you catch awkward phrases and redundancies you may have missed. Reading the vows to a trusted friend or family member is also a good idea. Getting feedback on what you’ve written can help put any concerns about your words to rest. What’s more, those who fear speaking in front of crowds might find it helpful to practice in front of others before the big day arrives.
Write Vows You Love
Creating your wedding vows is a wonderful way to express exactly how you feel about the love of your life. By following simple steps, you will surely come up with vows that you'll absolutely adore. You'll also be able to create a core memory for you and your partner, and your words will stay with you forever.