Crafting Timeless Wedding Vows: A Guide for Modern Couples
While choosing color palettes and your wedding day aesthetic can be fun and exciting, when the thought of writing your vows comes to mind, you might freeze or even shy away from the idea of starting to write your vows. Why? Because writing your wedding vows is a unique and deeply personal experience, much like the art of documenting love through a lens. As an American wedding photographer based in Europe specializing in documentary-style photography, I understand the significance of authentic moments and the importance of crafting vows that resonate with your unique story. In this guide, I hope to shed light on key elements to consider when beginning to write your vows, so that they are personal and meaningful.
Reflect on Your Relationship:
Take time to reflect on your journey as a couple. Consider the significant moments, challenges you've overcome together, and the growth you've experienced. Drawing inspiration from your shared experiences will make your vows more personal and authentic.
Express Your Love and Gratitude:
Clearly express your love for your partner and the gratitude you feel for having them in your life. Acknowledge the qualities and characteristics that you admire, and share why you are excited to spend your life with them.
Incorporate Personal Stories and Anecdotes:
Make your vows unique by including personal stories, inside jokes, or special memories that hold sentimental value. These anecdotes not only add a personal touch but also provide insight into the depth of your connection.
Include Promises and Commitments:
Outline specific promises and commitments you are making to your partner. These promises can be both general (such as supporting each other through thick and thin) and specific (like promising to always laugh at their jokes or be their biggest cheerleader)
5. Consider the Tone:
Decide on the overall tone of your vows. Whether you want your vows to be light-hearted, humorous, romantic, or a mix of emotions, establishing the right tone will set the mood for the ceremony.
6. Keep it Concise:
While it's important to express your feelings and make promises, keep in mind that brevity often enhances the impact. Aim for a balance between heartfelt sentiments and a concise delivery to keep your vows engaging.
7. Practice Aloud:
Practice delivering your vows aloud. This will not only help you become more comfortable with the words but also ensure that the flow and timing are just right. Practice will also help manage any nervousness you might feel on the big day.
8. Consider Your Partner's Vows:
If possible, discuss the general structure or tone of your vows with your partner to ensure a harmonious and balanced exchange. While individuality is key, aligning on certain aspects can enhance the overall ceremony.
9. Think About Your Audience:
Remember that your vows will be heard by family and friends, so consider their feelings and expectations. Keep the content appropriate and respectful, creating a moment that resonates with everyone present.
10. Seek Inspiration:
If you're feeling stuck, seek inspiration from poetry, literature, or even song lyrics. Reading or listening to examples of other vows can help spark creativity and guide you in finding the right words.
Ultimately, your wedding vows should be a genuine expression of your love and commitment.
BONUS TIP:
If you are like me, excitement and joy can often lead to feeling big emotions! More specifically, I cry happy tears now and then. What was helpful to know before reading my vows was to take it slow and pause for a deep breath! And it worked like a charm, I was able to finish my vows without ruining my makeup! ;)
Check out the rest of this featured wedding here! And if you are looking for a wedding photographer with a documentary style with hints of an editorial flair, don’t hesitate to reach out and contact me to learn more about what having me as your photographer would look like!