Guide to writing our own vows

Truly a topic which I believe 9/10 people spend way too much time on worrying about then remembering what your words at the ceremony means.

I've told all my my couples to simply write their other half a letter. This letter should be explaining what has happened, what is happening and what will happen moving forward knowing that this is the last time they will be alone.

It works on so many levels and a heartfelt letter will bring more tears and warm more hearts than an obvious Google searched template.

If anything, the delivery of your vows is more important that the words. Even the most motivational of speeches being read out by a robotic monotone computer will not catch anyones emotions. 

I have a guide on my webpage that might assist you:

https://www.alifecelebrant.com.au/vows-what-do-i-say/

Stay off Google and ChatGPT, there's nothing good there because those algorithms don't know you. The best advice for writing personal vows is to forget there is an audience of guests, you won't even notice them, instead write some words that

1. tells your spouse that you want to marry them,
2. and why,
3. in a way that makes them feel like a million dollars,
4. whilst also making sure that you feel like you have said what you need to say to get married.
5. Do it in as many words as you need to,
6. and as few words as possible.

Write the vow like it's a gift to the other person.

I help my couple write their vows. The guys are usually the ones who need most help.

I sometimes tell them

What did you feel when you first saw (bride)
What was it that compelled you to ask her out ?
What was it that made you decide to marry her

That is usully sufficient to get the flow going

Every single one of my couples, regardless of the package they choose, has access to a vow structure that is super easy to follow. Both parties then can send their vows to me directly so I can compare them for length and tone. This keeps your vows a surprise for your partner. On your big day, I'll have them printed, put onto card and hand them to you at exactly the right time so you don't have to carry them around with you ??

Hello, it's a great question and one that I get all the time. I'd like to start by telling you that they're YOUR vows so there aren't any rules. I do the legal vow bit separately so that you can have creative licence to declare your love and commitment for your partner in your own way, in your own words. It's often the most moving part of the ceremony and there are tears all round. That's because it comes from the heart. I work with the couples individually so that their vows can be 'revealed' on the day, I offer examples, editing advice and nudging for a bit shorter or longer to match the partner's one. Most of the time, I don't have to do much because the couples write their vows so naturally and beautifully. Happy to chat to you more about it so feel free to reach out. 

Hi! I have a blog on my website covering some do's and dont's when it comes to your writing your own vows.

https://www.lovebyleish.com/wedding-tips-by-leish/writing-your-own-vows-the-dos-and-donts

Also, check in with your celebrant as they generally will be more than happy to help of you get a bit stuck.

Great question! I have a podcast episode where I cover this and you might find it helpful. My podcast is called The Wedding Wombat and you can find the episode about writing your vows here-  https://metamorphis.com.au/vows-that-wow/

If you still feel stuck after listening, feel free to reach out and I'll give you a hand. I don't mind if you aren't in my area, I just want you to have vows that are meaningful, memorable and magical.

I always give my Couples a booklet with examples of vows.  Makes it so much stress free if you can see some examples and take it from there.  Not everyone can write so it is lovely to see some options to give you inspiration.  I always offer my couples also the opportunity for me to assist them with rewording the vows so they really are sensational.  I love to give my couples beautiful vow cards to keep as well as a memory of their special day.

Wow!  That question has a thousand or more answers, easy!  If you put into a Google search, you are likely to find millions of answers and examples.  Your best bet, I think, would be to query something like 'sample australian wedding ceremony'.  That would trim it down quite a bit for you.  The wonderful thing about weddings in Australia is that they can be remarkably flexible and highly tailorable to YOUR desires and needs... with but one caveat - You MUST include the 'monitrum' required by Australian law that makes it official.  Well, that, and of course, all the paperwork specific to Australian Marriage Law.  Most Celebrants will offer a first meeting at no obligation so you can see if they have a 'style' that you like.  That often includes a brief outline and/or sample of an Australian Wedding wtih some of its variabilities explained.  This is where each celebrant excells in their own way.  Some can be remarkabley poetic, others love to tell a story, and still others excell in the pomp and ceremony of a very fancy wedding.  Keeping in mind there is a month waiting period after the paperwork is initiated before you can marry, and an 18 month window for 'the deed', you can usually take your time and check out a celebrant or three if you feel the need.  Some of us are even happy to answer more directed questions in a DM if you like.  For now, Congrats and have fun!!