Writing Your Own Wedding Vows? Here’s Inspiration to Get You Started

Today, wedding vows are more personal than ever. Gone are the days when you had to stick to the traditional “love, honor, and cherish” script. Many couples now use this moment to share heartfelt promises, inside jokes, and the unique meaning behind their love story.

Why make your vows personal? Because this is one of the rare times you’ll stand in front of the most important people in your lives and speak openly about your love, your dreams, and your promises for the future. Personal vows:

• Reflect your values and beliefs – Whether faith-based, spiritual, or rooted in shared life goals, your vows can express what truly matters to you.

• Show your personalities – Humor, poetic language, or simplicity—it’s all about what feels authentic.

• Make the moment unforgettable – When guests hear your words, they remember your wedding as unique and heartfelt.

• Strengthen your bond – Speaking your promises out loud creates a powerful moment of connection between you and your partner.

  
  

Thinking about writing your own vows? These tips will help you find words that feel just right.

Tips for Writing Your Vows

1. Start Early – Give yourself time to think, write, and revise. The best vows rarely come together the night before!

2. Reflect on Your Journey – Think about how you met, what you’ve overcome, and what makes your relationship strong.

3. Include Specifics – The little things—how they always make your coffee, or how they dance in the kitchen—make your vows personal and memorable.

4. Balance Heartfelt with Lighthearted – A sweet laugh in the middle of your vows can ease nerves and make them more “you.”

5. Keep It Concise – Aim for 1–2 minutes. Long enough to be meaningful, short enough to keep everyone engaged.

6. Write It Down – Even if you’ve memorized them, having a printed copy ensures you won’t forget your words in the moment.

7. Practice Out Loud – Reading them aloud helps you fine-tune the flow and catch anything that feels awkward.

8. Stay True to Your Voice – If you’re not usually flowery or poetic, you don’t need to be here either. Speak the way you naturally express love.

   
   

Classic & Modern Vow Examples

Traditional-style vow:“I, (name), take you, (name), to be my (spouse/partner), to have and to hold from this day forward, for better or for worse, for richer, for poorer, in sickness and in health, to love and to cherish, from this day forward until death do us part.”

Faith-based with a personal touch:“I, (name), take you, (name), to be my (partner/spouse), my constant friend, my faithful companion, and my love from this day forward. In the presence of our loved ones, I promise to support your dreams, respect you always, laugh with you, cry with you, and love you unconditionally for as long as we both shall live.”

Romantic and heartfelt:“I, (name), take you, (name), to be my partner in life and my one true love. I will trust and respect you, laugh and cry with you, and love you faithfully, through the good times and the challenges. I give you my heart and my hand, now and always.”

Spiritual and simple:“In the presence of our community, I take you to be my beloved, promising—with all that I am—to walk with you in love and faithfulness for as long as we live.”

Family-focused:“I, (name), take you, (name), to be my friend, my love, the (parent/co-parent) of our family, and my partner. I will be by your side in all seasons of life—in joy and in sorrow, in strength and in struggle. I promise to protect, support, and cherish you, forever.”

Nature-inspired and poetic:“I choose you, (name), to be my partner. I promise to walk with you through every season of life—nurturing our love, respecting your journey, and growing alongside you with kindness, patience, and joy.”

For couples who value growth:“I, (name), take you, (name), as my partner, loving who you are and excited for who you’ll become. I promise to keep discovering you, to love you more each day, and to grow together—side by side—through all that life brings.”

Optional Readings for Your Ceremony

Looking for something meaningful to include in your ceremony? These readings can help set the tone for your vows or provide beautiful standalone moments:

Celebrating your bond:“Today we come together not to begin a relationship, but to celebrate and strengthen a bond that already exists. Marriage is a promise to grow together, to support one another, and to share in life’s joys and challenges.”

On partnership and equality:“Marriage is a process of learning and evolving together. It’s about listening, showing respect, offering kindness, and valuing each other as equals.”

The spirit of a promise:“When two people pledge to love and care for each other, they create something unique—a shared spirit that grows with them. Marriage is a promise that unfolds across a lifetime.”

A personal commitment:“Today, I give myself to you fully and freely. Because of you, I laugh, I smile, and I dream bigger. I promise to stand beside you through all seasons of life, holding your hand and your heart, always.”

Final Thoughts

If you’re working with an officiant, they may have certain guidelines—especially for religious ceremonies—so be sure to check in with them early. They might also have additional vow samples to inspire you.

Most importantly, make your vows your own. Add those little details that make your relationship special—whether it’s a shared memory, a funny moment, or something only the two of you understand. Your vows are more than just words—they’re a celebration of your journey, your love, and your future together.