For most couples, the stress of writing your own vows might turn you off the idea completely. Although traditional vows are beautiful and… well, traditional, writing your own is a thoughtful, unique touch to your ceremony. So don’t give up hope, and follow some of these tips to help get over your vow block.
First, don’t take on any unnecessary stress when it comes to your wedding. Writing your own vows should be an opportunity to put into words the feelings you have for your spouse. This doesn’t mean, however, writing them on your own. Some couples choose to write them together, or reveal them before the wedding so there isn’t any added stress.
To get started, ask yourself some questions that should help you get your thoughts into organized words on paper. Such as: How did you feel the first time you met, or the first time you laid eyes on your future spouse? When did you realize that you were in love? How has knowing your partner changed you for the better? How does he/she inspire you? What can you promise in your future together, or what are your hopes and dreams for your future? Why have you decided to take the big step of getting married? What were the events that led to your first meeting? Short anecdotes are a great edition to vows, especially if they are humorous, as those are the most memorable ones.
Better if you don’t:
- Don’t use cliches like “you complete me” even if you feel it. They are so overused, they have lost all their meaning.
- Don’t make it last longer than a minute or two, your guests will thank you.
- Don’t spend too much time talking about yourself, speak more of who you are in relation to your spouse, like the things you promise to be for him/her or how they have changed you.
Don’t be afraid to:
+ Borrow from quotes that help you sum up what you are trying to say.
+ Work in some of the traditional vows with your original ones, especially if you feel the resonate with your emotions.
+ Make it short and sweet.
+ Ask your spouse for his/her opinion.
Sample sentences are a great start to help you get your point across, simply filling in the blanks to these often result in organizing your thoughts conveying your emotion to your spouse.
- When we met, I knew [blank].
- Before I met you [blank]. Now I [blank].
- I can’t wait to/look forward to [blank].
- Together we will [blank].
- You are [blank] to me. You are my [blank].
- I promise I will [blank]. I vow to [blank].
- Our love is like a [blank].
- You have always been [blank].
- Even when/if [blank], you/we [blank].
- You have made me want to [blank].
Inspiration: TheKnot.com
