10 Tips for Writing Contemporary Wedding Vows
When it comes to writing your wedding vows, the sky’s the limit. You can go traditional, write your own, or borrow from literature. No matter what route you take, your wedding vows should be a reflection of your relationship and your love for one another.
Here are 10 tips for writing contemporary wedding vows:
1. Keep it Simple
Your vows don’t have to be long or complicated. In fact, keeping them short and sweet is often more impactful. Think about what you want to say and then say it in the simplest way possible.
2. Be Authentic
Your vows should be a reflection of your relationship. Don’t try to copy someone else’s vows or write something that isn’t true to your relationship. Be authentic and write from the heart.
3. Use “I” Statements
When writing your vows, use “I” statements. This will make your vows more personal and intimate. For example, instead of saying “we promise to always be there for each other,” you can say “I promise to always be there for you.”
4. Avoid Clichés
There are certain phrases that are overused and clichéd. Avoid them in your vows so that your words feel fresh and original. For example, instead of saying “till death do us part,” you can say “for as long as we both shall live.”
5. Write in the Present Tense
When writing your vows, write in the present tense. This will make your vows feel more real and more sincere. For example, instead of saying “I will love you forever,” you can say “I love you now and always.”
6. Be Specific
Generic vows are often unmemorable. Be specific in your vows so that they’re more meaningful. For example, instead of saying “I promise to be a good husband/wife,” you can say “I promise to always be understanding and patient with you.”
7. Use Sensory Language
Make your vows more vivid by using sensory language. Instead of saying “I love you,” you can say “I love the way you make me feel – safe, loved, and cherished.”
8. Avoid Jokes
Your vows are not the time for jokes. This is a serious and sentimental moment, so keep your vows light and sincere.
9. Rehearse Your Vows
Before your big day, rehearse your vows so that you know them by heart. This will help you feel more confident and prevent you from stumbling over your words on your wedding day.
10. Have a Backup Plan
Even if you rehearse your vows, things can still go wrong. Have a backup plan in case you forget your vows or get too nervous to speak. You can keep your vows on a card or have someone else read them for you.
No matter what you write, your wedding vows should be a reflection of your love for one another. Keep these tips in mind as you write your own contemporary wedding vows.