Traditional vows include the standard “… to have and to hold from this day forward, for better, for worse, for richer, for poorer, in sickness and in health, to love and to cherish, till death do us part”. But writing your own personal portion before these (or starting from scratch completely) can mean SO much to your partner. And can help inaugurate the vows in your own heart as well. This is something you do once-in-a-lifetime, and we think a few vow writing tips can help get the words flowing!
Vow Writing Tips from Wedding Experts
Complete Weddings + Events’ wedding experts, each attending over 25 weddings a year some over double that! Which means we have the advice to help you get started in the vow writing process plus tips on what to include in these declarations of commitment. Get all our vow writing tips from our wedding experts below!
Where to Start?
Complete Weddings + Events’ Lisa and Eric Raftery have a great technique to help you get started on the personal vow writing process. Write one line about the past, one line about the present, one line about the future. Here’s an example using three sentences and the past, present, and future method to get you thinking.
- Past: I remember when I first met you and was so impressed by not only your gorgeous smile but by how thoughtful and kind you were.
- Present: Now we are best friends, and I still love your smile and am impressed by who you are, every single day.
- Future: As we get married today, I am so excited about this beautiful season together, to spend the rest of my life, loving you and discovering new ways that you are the most amazing man I have ever known.
The Knot also has wedding vow examples from real couples, some with both partners’ vows included, to give you many variations of vows, from one sentence to full-on emotional!
When to Start Writing Vows?
Starting the vow writing process at least two months before the big day will give you enough time, but some suggest thinking about what you want to say, and why you’re making this commitment during the entire engagement period will help make the entire process easier. Finishing the vows before your final 30-day countdown hits is a great goal, especially since other last-minute wedding planning details may be distracting in the final weeks.
“When it comes to selecting, writing, and processing your wedding vows, I highly recommend you start early especially if you are writing your own. Make sure to allow plenty of time to marinate on these both individually and as a couple. You will not regret the investment of time or thought.” Kevin Paladino of Complete Weddings + Events advises.
Know Your Audience
While you may be speaking your vows in front of many family and friends, remember that the vows are for your loved one, an audience of one! Complete’s Reed Beldin gives advice saying “When choosing what to vow, remember you are talking to her/him directly, not the 300+ people at your ceremony.”
Complete Wedding Experts in Sarasota, FL
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