How to Write Wedding Vows That Feel Truly Personal

When it comes to planning your wedding, choosing the right venue, selecting your dream dress, and finalising the guest list are all vital — but writing your vows? That’s where the real heart lies.

Your wedding vows are one of the most personal and touching parts of the day. They’re not just a tradition; they’re your chance to tell your partner — and everyone watching — why you’re choosing them for life. Whether you're having a church ceremony or a modern civil service, meaningful vows will make your big moment unforgettable.

Why Writing Your Own Wedding Vows Matters

Pre-written or religious vows certainly have their place, but nothing quite compares to words spoken from the heart. Writing your own promises allows you to reflect on your unique journey, highlight shared memories, and look forward to the future you’re building together.

And let's be honest — it’s also a moment that gets the tissues out, especially for the mums, who’ll be dabbing away tears in their mother-of-the-bride outfits.

Step-by-Step: How to Write Heartfelt Wedding Vows

1. Start With a Brain Dump

Don’t worry about making it perfect at first. Just jot down everything you love about your partner: from the way they make your coffee to how they supported you through tough times. Think of the little things that matter.

Use prompts like:

• “The moment I knew I loved you was…”

• “You make me feel…”

• “I promise to always…”

These raw notes are the foundation of a heartfelt vow.

2. Talk About Your Journey

Your guests will appreciate hearing snippets of your story — how you met, your first holiday, the inside jokes. This makes your vows more authentic and connects your words to real-life memories. But don’t overdo it — this isn’t a full love story monologue!

You might say:

“From that rainy Tuesday night when you forgot your umbrella, to today — standing here in front of everyone we love — I knew this was always where we were heading.”

3. Make Promises That Reflect Who You Are

Go beyond “I promise to love you forever.” Think of meaningful, even humorous commitments that show your bond. For example:

• “I promise to always share the last slice of pizza… even when I really want it.”

• “I vow to support your dreams, even the ones that scare me.”

Keep it balanced — aim for a mix of funny, sincere, and deeply emotional.

4. Keep It Short and Sweet

Aim for around 1–2 minutes per person. Enough to make an impact, but not so long that guests start shifting in their seats. Read it aloud several times — or better yet, practise in front of a friend.

Tips for Nervous Writers

• Don’t compare: Your partner’s vows may sound poetic, yours might be more grounded — that’s fine! Let your personality shine through.

• Use your voice: Don’t try to sound overly formal or “wedding-y.” Write like you speak.

• Be present: On the day, take a breath, look them in the eyes, and speak from the heart.

Include Those Closest to You

Your vows are all about your relationship — but your wedding day is a celebration of your wider circle too. That’s why we always recommend helping your bridesmaids and mum feel special too. It’s not just your big day — it’s theirs as well.

Explore our bridesmaid dresses in timeless shades and modern styles to ensure your bridal party look just as elegant as the occasion demands. And don’t forget to browse our mother-of-the-bride collection — perfect for helping Mum look and feel amazing while she watches you say "I do".

Final Thought: Make It Yours

There’s no ‘right’ way to write your vows. Some couples choose to share the writing task together, others wait to hear them for the first time on the day. What matters most is that your words reflect your heart and your journey together.

So take a deep breath, a pen, and a cuppa — and start writing the promises you’ll carry for life.