As a wedding planner, I am truly blessed to witness so much love and joy on a regular basis. Among all the special moments on a wedding day, my favourite by far is the exchange of vows. Personalised vows, written from the heart, transform this tradition into something that is deeply personal and magical. They allow you to capture the essence of your relationship in a way that traditional vows might not, and they offer a glimpse into your unique story and promises for the future.

If you’re struggling to write your vows, you’re not alone. Translating your thoughts and feelings into words can be challenging. Keep reading for our guide on how to craft vows with ease.

First Things First…

Set Your Intentions

At Vows & Things, we truly believe in the power of intention. Before you begin writing, set clear intentions for what you want to convey. Are you emphasising your friendship, your dreams, or your spiritual connection? Setting intentions ensures that your vows remain focused and meaningful.

Reflect on Your Journey

Start by reflecting on your journey together. Think about the key moments that defined your relationship—the moment you first met, your first impressions, the challenges you’ve overcome, and the moments you’ve celebrated. What do you admire in your partner and how have they changed your life? All of these things will provide a strong foundation for your vows.

Be Authentic and Vulnerable

Authenticity is key to powerful vows. Speak from your heart and don’t shy away from being vulnerable. Share your true feelings, your hopes, and your dreams. This can definitely be scary, especially if you’re saying your vows in front of your guests but we promise you won’t regret it. Authenticity is beautiful.

Use Storytelling

Storytelling is a great way to engage your audience and share your love story. Include special moments from your relationship, like funny incidents or touching memories. These stories add depth and make your vows more relatable.

Crafting Your Vows

Start with a Greeting

Begin your vows with a personal greeting to your partner. Address them by name, use a term of endearment or nickname that you use often. This immediately sets a personal and intimate tone.

Express Your Love

Let your partner know how you feel about them, and what they mean to you. Be specific about the qualities you admire and the ways they have impacted your life.

Share a Memory

Include a meaningful memory or story that stands out in your relationship. Perhaps the moment you knew they were the one, or the first time you said “I love you”. This adds a personal touch and helps illustrate your journey together.

Make Your Promises

Clearly state your promises to your partner. These commitments are one of the most important parts of your vows. Take them seriously, and think about what you are truly going to commit to throughout your future together. They can be practical, poetic and humorous.

End with a Vision for the Future

Conclude your vows with a vision for your future together. Paint a picture of the life you see ahead and the values that will guide your journey.

Final Tips

Practise Reading Aloud

Once you’ve written your vows, practice reading them aloud. It feels a bit stupid initially but we promise it will be worth it!

Stay Present

On your wedding day, focus on your partner as you recite your vows. Let the emotion flow naturally and embrace the moment. Take a deep breath, and speak a little bit slower than you think you should.

Be Yourself

Your vows should reflect your personality and style. Whether you’re poetic, humorous, or straightforward, stay true to yourself.

Writing personalised vows is a beautiful way to honour your love and commitment to each other. Speaking from the heart creates a memorable and magical moment that you will remember throughout your marriage. Embrace the process, trust yourself, and let your love guide you.