How to Write Vows for a Wedding
The first question you might be asking is “Should we write our own wedding vows?” and the answer is a resounding YES! As wedding videographers, we recommend writing your own wedding vows because it is one of the best ways to improve the quality of your wedding video.
We once heard a pastor say he only takes on weddings where the couple decides to write their own vows because it’s a true commitment in front of all their family and friends. Yes, the process does seem scary and intimidating, but the end result is worth it. Writing your own wedding vows gives everyone a better glimpse into your love story. It shows your true feelings about one another on that day. It also helps build your love story into your wedding film. So where do you start? Here are some suggestions on how to write your own wedding vows.
6 tips on How to write Vows for a Wedding
1.) Decide on the tone and style: Before you start writing, think about the tone and style you want to convey in your vows. Do you want them to be funny, romantic, or sentimental? Do you want to include quotes, poetry, or religious references? Once you have a general idea of the tone and style, it will be easier to start writing.
2.) Tell a story: Tell the story of how you met or how you felt on that first date. Tell the story of the moment you had fallen in love and knew she was the one. Stories are captivating and they will have you guests saying “Those were the best wedding vows i’ve ever heard!”
Wedding Vows Examples
Wedding Videographer Pro Tip: Let your wedding videographer mic up your dress for your wedding vows. It will sound much better if the bride and the groom are wearing separate microphones (especially if the wedding is outside). We once had a bride who was hesitant about wearing a microphone for her ceremony but her bridesmaid actually convinced her to wear one. Her bridesmaid had to redo her vows after her wedding because she wasn’t wearing a microphone. Putting a microphone on a dress is simple and discrete. You won’t even realize you are wearing one. This is how we mic up the bride’s dress in case you are wondering.
More tips on How to write wedding vows
3.) Reflect on your relationship: Take some time to reflect on your relationship and what you love most about your partner. Think about your shared experiences, your hopes and dreams for the future, and the qualities that make your partner so special to you.
4.) Write from the heart: Your wedding vows should come from the heart. Don't worry about being poetic or eloquent; just write from the heart and express your feelings honestly and authentically. It's okay to be vulnerable and emotional; after all, this is one of the most important days of your life.
5.) Keep it concise: While you want your vows to be meaningful, it's also important to keep them concise. Remember that you will be standing in front of your guests and your partner, so you don't want to ramble on for too long. Aim for about two to three minutes per person, and keep your thoughts focused and concise.
6.) Practice, practice, practice: Once you have written your vows, practice saying them out loud. This will help you get comfortable with the words and ensure that you can deliver them confidently on the day of your wedding. You can even practice in front of a mirror or with a trusted friend or family member.
Wedding Vows Sample
Wedding Videographer Pro Tip: Plan for some time in the beginning of your wedding day to copy your wedding vows in a vow book. Your videographer can capture some footage of this moment and it is a nice way to add to your wedding day story.
Alternative Wedding Vows Ideas
Writing your own wedding vows can be intimidating and stressful. We totally get it. To be honest, I (Morgan) couldn’t even make it through traditional wedding vows without sobbing like a baby, so I totally get the extra pressure and stress behind reciting your wedding vows in front of hundreds of people. If you don’t feel comfortable, here are a few alternative wedding vows ideas:
1.) Private vow reading after your first look: Your first look is an excellent opportunity to recite vows to each other in a private setting. Typically it’s just your videographer and photographer who will be there so it is less stressful. You still get to look your partner in the eye and feel all the emotion as if you were reciting them during your ceremony. If you’re not doing a first look you can recite your vows after your ceremony.
First Look Wedding Vows
2.) Letters to each other: Writing letters to each other can be another great way to convey your love to your partner on your wedding day. Letters are a great way to improve the quality wedding film as well. As wedding videographers, we love having as much audio to work with for your wedding film as possible. We typically recommend letters to each other when the couple isn’t comfortable writing their own vows or it is more of a traditional wedding ceremony where personal vows are not allowed.
Example of Wedding Day Letters
Conclusion
Writing your own wedding vows can be a meaningful and intimate way to express your love and commitment to your partner. By following these steps and writing from the heart, you can create vows that are truly unique and special, and that will be remembered for years to come.
Are You Looking for a Wedding Videographer?
We’re Adam and Morgan Post of Post Wedding Films and we are a husband and wife wedding videographer team specializing in creating captivating, candid, story-driven wedding films so you can remember your best day forever. If you are looking for a wedding videographer we would love to chat and tell you more about what makes us unique!