The case for writing your own vows (even if you're scared)
Let’s be honest—writing your own wedding vows can feel terrifying. Standing up in front of everyone you love, baring your soul, and trying to sum up how much you adore your partner without crying, rambling, or turning into a puddle? Not exactly an easy ask.
But here’s the truth: writing your own vows is also one of the most meaningful, unforgettable things you can do on your wedding day. And we promise—it’s not as scary as it seems.
If you're even considering writing your own vows, this one’s for you.
Why bother writing your own vows?
Because they’re yours.
Personal vows are about ditching the cookie-cutter promises and saying what you actually feel. They can be funny, heartfelt, nerdy, poetic, or messy—in the best possible way. It’s the part of the ceremony where it stops being just “a wedding” and starts being your wedding.
They’re a chance to:
Share your story in your own words
Make promises that matter to you
Connect with your partner (and your guests) in a real, raw, beautiful way
Have a moment that’ll stay with you forever
We’ve seen couples quote their favourite sitcoms, read haikus, thank each other for always doing the bins, and whisper things so intimate only their partner could hear. That’s the magic of personal vows.
"But I’m not a writer…"
You don’t have to be! No one’s expecting Shakespeare. This isn’t school. It’s about your voice.
Still feel stuck? That’s where we come in. Through our Word Elements service, we help couples craft vows and speeches that sound like them. No templates, no cringe. Just thoughtful, personalised words that hit the heart (without triggering the ick).
Jenny—our in-house vow writer—is a novelist with a Master's degree in Creative Writing. She’s helped dozens of couples put their feelings into words, and she’s a firm believer that everyone has something beautiful to say.
How do you even start writing vows?
Here’s a gentle guide to get you going:
1. Think about your story
How did you meet? What have you been through? What makes your relationship yours?
2. Make a list of promises
Big ones. Silly ones. Sweet ones. From “I promise to stand by you in tough times” to “I promise to share my snacks, even when I don’t want to.”
3. Say what you love about them
The stuff they probably don’t even realise you notice. Their laugh. Their weird sock collection. The way they always know when you need a hug.
4. Keep it short-ish
Aim for 1–2 minutes when read aloud. Enough to be powerful without turning into an Oscar speech.
5. Read it out loud (and practise not crying)
Saying it aloud helps it flow better—and gets you used to the idea of actually saying it on the day.
Not convinced? Here’s what couples say
"I was terrified of writing vows, but I’m so glad we did. It was the moment that everyone talked about afterward."
"We used Word Elements because I had no idea where to begin. Jenny took what I said in a rambley voice note and turned it into the perfect vows."
"I nearly skipped writing my vows because I was scared. But they ended up being the bit I remember the most. So many people cried. Including me. Including my mum. Including the dog."
Launch offer: Save on your vows
Because we know how important this is, we’re offering a launch discount on our Word Elements package.
Book your vow writing support in the next month and get 25% off the package.
So that’s personalised help from a professional writer (who’s also a wedding nerd) to make your vows amazing—for less than the cost of your wedding shoes.
Bonus: vow writing doesn’t have to be public
Worried about reading them aloud? Don’t! You can:
Read them privately to each other before the ceremony
Include them in your ceremony booklet
Turn them into a letter to give on the morning of the wedding
There are no rules. Just do what feels good.
Should you write your own vows?
If you want to say something real, raw, funny, romantic or totally ridiculous to your partner on the most important day of your life—yes. A thousand times yes.
And if you want help making them magic? That’s what we’re here for.
Want vow writing that actually sounds like you? Have a peek at our Word Elements package or pop us a message—we’ll help you find the words. 💘