What makes original wedding vows really stand out, in your opinion?

Vows that are heartfelt. I give my couples pointers on what they may like to say and usually once they given it some thought, they come up with some pretty special words and promises for each other...I have been known to sit there crying when they email them through! 

Your personality and your honest open approach is what really stands out. Emotion rather then commotion so not too many jokes or smart comments.

Speaking their vows with love and conviction!

Cheers

Angela

Wedding vows stand out when they have been prepared using the following three tips (that I always give my bride and grrom):

1. Make sure you have used language that reflects your personality. Many couples seach online for vows and take the wording that has been used in other ceremonies. I encourage you to refrain from doing this. It's ok to use existing vows as inspiration, but it is important to COMPLETELY use your own language. For example, instead of saying "I promise to love you in good times and in bad" you could say "Im going to try and always look for the best in you, no matter what we go through together"

2. Write your vows at least 1- 2 months before your ceremony. Let your vows refelect the strong intension that you plan to keep working at for the rest of your life. Look at them 1-3 times each week, perhaps each night before bed? Let them become your mantra and a part of your belief system. Think of it this way, when someone asks you in 20 years time "What did you vow to your partner?" you should be able to instantly recite your vow. Practicing it weekly in the lead up to your marriage will consolidate it not just in your mind, but in your heart. They will become words to live by.

3. Read or recite your vows SLOWLY to your partner whilst looking them in the eyes. So many times i have seen couples rush through their vows out of nervousness. But trust me, everyone has time to hear you share these precious words. In fact, the vows are often the most heartfelt part of the ceremony. So during the vows just zone right in on your partner. Imagine that no one else in the world exists. Let it be a personal moment and slow it right down, as if you have no where else to be or go. 

During your ceremony, if you start to feel emotional or short of breath, I encourage you to breath right into your heart. Come home to yourself (and to eachother) over and over agian during your day by simply alowing yourself to breath, smile inwards and relax.

Warm regards for a heart-felt ceremony, 
Nathalie Brewer

Hello - & in answer to your question I write the following:

I think if the vows are written/or chosen from the heart to one another - observing the love in your eyes as you express those words to your intended is the most memorable & rewarding thing a Celebrant (& the family & guests) could possibly witness. The outcome shows the vulnerability & depth of love you are feeling.

Warm wishes, Janine Gilland, Civil Marriage Celebrant.

Wedding Vows stand out when they are reflective of the individual saying the words, and of the relationship described.

They can be loving, tearful, funny, short or very long, poetic, sung, whispered, or just meaningful from the heart.

What makes them stand out is not just what is said but how they are said and who is saying it.

The Vows will stand out when a loud and flamboyant person, leans in, looks deeply into the eyes of the  partner and quietly & humbly says "I will always love you, you give my life meaning, I will always be yours" ; just as a quiet and reserved person might say the same words but looks up at the sky and yells them to the world.

In my opinion i think that if the marrying couple write their vows privately and when the special day arrives the couple have not heard these vows before and it is a really touching moment to witness and one that affirms that this couple are truly their for each other for the long haul. I am so humbled by some of the vows I have witnessed during my wedding service.

I believe that Wedding Vows that are truly memorable and fun to hear are the ones that show your true personality. You can't beat personalised, unique wedding vows. For inspiration do some research and start writing down ideas. Don’t be cryptic, try to use key words like cherish, nurture, love & adore. Make a promise and speak from the heart. Let your guests know just how much you love and admire your partner and the special things about your relationship. It’s your moment to shine.

I belive that personal vows are the best as they come from the heart and give meaning to this once off special occasion.

If you believe what you write, meaningful vows can be a beautiful moment that is shared between two people in love (and of course all your guests)