Wedding Vows Tips
One of my favorite parts of weddings is when couples deliver the vows they’ve written for each other - it’s always so sweet and emotional! While it’s such a beautiful moment, writing your wedding vows can feel daunting. As a Charlotte wedding planner, I’ve gathered some of my best tips to help you write vows that are heartfelt, meaningful, and stress-free.
Tip #1: Keep it Personal, Short, and Sweet
Your wedding vows should feel personal and genuine - avoid making them sound like something you found online or through AI (although AI can help you refine them). Talk about highlights of your love story, share your feelings about your partner, and express why you’re excited to marry them.
Aim for 1-2 minutes of heartfelt words and keep the tone positive. Remember, wedding vows should be about the joy and commitment of the day — leave the challenges and negativity behind.
Tip #2: Have Tissues on Hand
Wedding vows can be incredibly emotional, so it’s always a good idea to have tissues nearby. Guys can keep them in their suit jackets, and ladies can tuck them into their bouquets. Bonus tip - use a Q-tip to gently dab away tears so you don’t smudge your makeup during this emotional moment.
Tip #3: Write Them Down
Whether you type, print, or handwrite your vows, always have them ready to go. You don’t want the most emotional part of your wedding to look like you’re checking your Instagram or reading off a screen.
Bonus: Consider getting cute vow books — they make for adorable keepsakes and can even be included in your wedding detail shots!
Tip #4: Pick a Designated Holder
If you plan on reading your vows aloud during the ceremony, pick someone to bring your written vows up to the altar. Whether it’s the best man, a trusted friend, or the officiant, make sure someone holds your vows so you can stay present and focused.
Tip #5: Make Promises
The word “vows” means promises, so don’t forget to include them in your wedding vows. While it’s important to share your love story, the core of your vows is about the promises you are making to one another. These promises can be about love, respect, support, or any other commitment that reflects your relationship and what you want to offer in marriage.
As a Charlotte wedding planner, I’ve seen firsthand how nerve-wracking it can be for couples to write and deliver their wedding vows. Hopefully, this post has given you the tips and confidence you need to write vows that feel genuine, personal, and unforgettable.
Vendor Credits
Planner – SC Signature Celebrations
Cover Photo and Photos 1 and 2 - Mary Mosley Photography
Photos 3-5 - Reflections Media Carolinas
