8 Tips for Writing Your Own Personal Wedding Vows
Writing isn’t everyone’s strong suit. Speaking in public isn’t either; but deciding to write and deliver personal vows is a good exercise for a wedding ceremony. It takes the commitment to a very intimate level and gives you the opportunity to make promises to your partner that actually matter to you and your relationship. Finally, it gives you the chance to imbue your wedding day with more meaning, which is appreciated by everyone there who has been a part of your life or your life together.
- Give yourself some time to do this well and make it something you are proud of. Most people should plant to start 4-6 weeks before the wedding. Many people work better under pressure, but give yourself ample time for revisions or to share with your officiant or a friend or parent for feedback.
- Talk together about the general length or amount of time with your partner. Do you want to say a few sentences to show your love and commitment? Do you want to tell a story or give some anecdotes about why this person is your person? Do you want to outline the promises you are making today? All three?
- Talk together about the tone of your vows. Does it match the vibe you are creating for the celebration? Are you both looking to make this fun-loving, laid back, humorous, romantic, serious, or a combination?
- Think about when you first met or your first date. How did you feel inside?
- Think about what you love or admire the most about this person and why you feel so fortunate to have him/her by your side.
- Think about a time your partner made you laugh until you cried or when he/she made your heart sing and tell that story.
- Think about how your life be without this person in it. What would you be missing?
- Think about what commitment means to you both. What are you promising to try to do always in this marriage to keep it healthy and growing.
Get Down To Writing Them
Make some notes after considering the above and then start. Even if it is one sentence. Just start somewhere and look at what you’ve started each day and add a bit. Revise and iterate. When you think you are done, read them out loud. Revise and iterate.
Here’s a general outline for 1-2 minute long vows. You might omit an intro or specific moments for shorter vows.
Start with a personal introduction to your partner, share a moment or two from your love story, express what you admire about them, then outline specific promises you are making for the future, and conclude with a heartfelt declaration of commitment.
One Last Bit of Advice
Last, run your vows by your wedding officiant for feedback. They have experience with how things sound spoken. They can give good advice for fleshing out a thought or tweaking anything that might make your vows better. For more information or to book our service to write and officiate your personal, meaningful and memorable wedding on Florida’s SunCoast, visit https://sayidosuncoast.com
