Choosing to write your own vows is a heartfelt way to make your ceremony even more special. Crafting personal promises allows you and your partner to share a deeper glimpse of your relationship with your guests. “Many newlyweds have told me that exchanging self-written vows was the most meaningful moment of their day,” says Steven Greitzer, CEO and founder of wedding writing tool Provenance.
While traditional vows offer a classic and historical charm, personalized vows tell your unique story. “Custom wedding vows let each partner express their real commitments, individuality, and hopes for the future,” Greitzer explains. “The sincerity, authenticity, and emotion from personalized vows simply can’t be matched by traditional scripts.”
1. Begin with “I love you.”
Start by telling your partner those three important words. It’s the foundation of your vows and should be expressed clearly and sincerely.
2. Share how your partner has changed you.
Talk about how your partner has impacted your life. Greitzer suggests reflecting on who you were before meeting and how your relationship has helped you grow and overcome challenges. “Sharing these personal reflections shows the depth and resilience of your bond,” he notes.
3. Include a personal story.
A brief anecdote about how you met, fell in love, or supported each other adds warmth and authenticity. Sharing a special moment helps guests feel connected to your journey.
4. Make realistic, heartfelt promises.
Beyond the classic “love and honor,” personalize your commitments. Maybe you’ll promise to always laugh at their jokes or cheer for their favorite team—adding these real-life touches makes your vows feel genuine.
5. Thank your partner and talk about the future.
Conclude by expressing gratitude for their love and sharing your dreams for the future. A few hopeful, caring words about the life ahead will leave a lasting impression.
How to Write Simple Wedding Vows
Now that you know the structure, here are expert tips to help you through the writing process:
1. Start early.
Writing your vows often takes longer than you expect. Give yourself plenty of time—ideally starting a few months ahead—so you can brainstorm, write, revise, and refine without pressure.
2. Align with your partner.
Make sure you and your partner agree on basics like vow length and tone. Will you both be sentimental, humorous, or a mix of both? Deciding early ensures your vows complement each other.
3. Brainstorm ideas.
Jot down bullet points about your relationship—key memories, qualities you admire, and future goals. Don’t worry about structure yet—just capture your thoughts freely.
4. Create an outline.
Highlight the most meaningful ideas and organize them into a beginning, middle, and end. This outline will guide you as you shape your vows into a cohesive narrative.
5. Draft without editing.
Write a full version of your vows without worrying about perfection. “Let your personality shine and speak from the heart,” Greitzer advises. Focus on sincerity, not grammar or style at this stage.
6. Edit and simplify.
Once your draft is done, pare it down. Keep only the strongest parts to maintain clarity and simplicity, ensuring every word adds value.
7. Get feedback.
Have a trusted friend review your vows. A fresh set of eyes can help catch any confusing spots and offer helpful suggestions—plus, you’ll see their emotional reaction firsthand.
8. Practice reading aloud.
Rehearse your vows multiple times. Practicing helps ease nerves and ensures you’re comfortable enough to deliver them naturally. Try reading in front of a mirror or recording yourself.
Couple Exchanging Vows Under Floral Arch and Chandelier
Example 1: Express love sincerely.
“I vow to respect you, encourage you through good times and bad, and love you just as deeply tomorrow as I do today.” – Lauren
Example 2: Add humor.
“I promise to pretend to enjoy cricket, buy endless Sriracha, and never question your FIFA obsession. But most of all, I would choose you again and again.” – Nakita
Example 3: Make a meaningful promise.
“I can’t promise a perfect life, but I promise a life filled with love, faith, and joy, together with you.” – Bailey
Example 4: Recite poetry.
“I can’t promise riches or ease, but I offer my unwavering devotion and a smile to brighten your every day.” – Austin
Example 5: Acknowledge personal growth.
“You made me a better man. Thank you for your patience, your challenges, and your love.” – Neja
Example 6: Share sweet moments.
“I’ll always lace up my shoes for our walks, plug your charger in when you’re tired, and turn up the heater even when I’m sweating.” – Rob
Example 7: Vow unconditional love.
“I promise to love you every day, pretend to understand your games, and annoy you forever.” – Bec
Example 8: Be supportive always.
“I’ll laugh with you, comfort you, and listen—choosing love over being right.” – Ryan
Example 9: Celebrate the little things.
“I’ll always panic at spiders for you, sneak hugs while you brush your teeth, and listen with my whole heart.” – Lisa
Example 10: Reflect on your journey.
“From walking new streets to cozy nights in, every moment with you has been an adventure worth living.” – Jackie
Example 11: Pledge loyalty and love.
“I vow to fight for us, to support you, to laugh and cry with you, and to treat you with kindness always.” – Brett
Example 12: Promise eternal devotion.
“I will never stop loving you fiercely, praying for you, and cherishing every day together.” – Jeff
Example 13: Embrace every role.
“I promise to be your advocate, personal chef, chauffeur, and endless comic relief.” – Craig
Example 14: Cheer for them endlessly.
“I’ll be your hype man, your safe place, and your biggest fan—always.” – Andrew
Example 15: Recall your first meeting.
“From the moment we met, I knew you were the one I wanted to spend my life with.” – Christine
Example 16: Show how you’ve grown.
“Falling in love with you has been the greatest gift—and you continue to inspire me daily.” – Daniel
Example 17: Reaffirm your daily choice.
“I choose you today and every day, through every joy and sorrow.” – Dannen
Example 18: Recognize divine guidance.
“God brought you into my life when I needed you most—and I’ll love you forever.” – Michael
Example 19: Celebrate their strength.
“You encouraged, supported, and believed in me when I needed it most—and still do.” – Cam
Example 20: Highlight meaningful gestures.
“You celebrate my quirks, support my dreams, and make every day brighter.” – Erica
Example 21: Promise everlasting protection.
“I vow to be your constant—through sunshine and storms, my love will never waver.” – Bill
Example 22: Honor your faith journey.
“God blessed me with you—patient, loving, and strong—and I will cherish you forever.” – Mariah
Example 23: Affirm your choice.
“Choosing you, building our family together, is the best decision I’ve ever made.” – Chris
Example 24: Emphasize your connection.
“You made my world colorful and my heart full—and I fall for you more each day.” – Lauren
Example 25: Paint a vivid memory.
“When you walked into my life, everything became vibrant—and I’ve loved you more every day since.” – James
