Writing your Wedding vows

Wedding vows are promises that couples make to each other and a declaration of your love Many couples choose a celebrant led wedding for the very reason, that they would like to create their own wedding vows. We can all repeat the vows spoken in Churches - "to have and to hold from this day forward" "until death us do part" etc but modern couples are now steering away from these words and realising that they can opt for something far more personal and appropriate to their relationship. In register offices you get the choice of two or three versions of vows, however these vows are using words that are bound by the juggernaut of legal speak, they aren't romantic at all, have been spoken by thousands of other people, and let's face it, very dull.

Vows are a way of telling your loved on just what they mean to you, in front of your friends and family. They are a personal promises or declarations of love, and it’s clear to see why so many modern couples are keen to write their own.

However, it can often be quite daunting for couples to write their vows and this is where your celebrant comes in. You will want to ensure that the vows have the right tone for you - that might mean that they have a traditional ring about it or they could have slightly jokey moments in them such as "I promise to share the duvet, leave the light on, make sure the toilet paper is stocked" or you might want to speak honestly and openly about your feelings "Jake, I loved you from the moment I saw you, you are the kindest, funniest person I know and I promise to spend my life loving you honestly and openly". You could also use quotes from authors as part of your vows for example Emily Bronte wrote "Whatever our souls are made of, yours and mine are the same." As your celebrant i would be guiding you and listening to you. Everything is open for discussion until the vows are just right.

It can be particularly emotional if the couple doesn't share their personally written vows before the ceremony takes place, so that you hear the vows being spoken for the first time ever in the ceremony by your loved one. This is very romantic and a beautiful moment - and such a lovely surprise.

However, nerves are common (funnily enough!) at a wedding and couples can be nervous about speaking their vows in public but there are many ways that we can tackle this. You could read from a specially prepared vow booklet, or I could read the words for you, and you could repeat them after me - whatever you choose I would be there right by your side supporting you. I even offer coaching in public speaking - using my years of experience as a drama practitioner to offer you tips on staying calm and helping you to read your vows clearly with confidence.

Get in touch if you would like more information! Jenny