How to Write Wedding Vows You’ll Actually Want to Say
Writing wedding vows sounds romantic — until you’re staring at a blank page with nothing except “I love you” and a quote stolen from Google. The truth is, vows don’t have to be complicated. As a Sydney marriage celebrant, I’ve heard hundreds of vows, and the best ones are always simple, honest, heartfelt and personal.
Keep It Simple
Your vows don’t need to read like Shakespeare. They just need to sound like you. Forget the flowery language — a line like “You make me laugh when I need it most” often lands far better than something lofty about stars or destiny.
Structure Helps
If you’re stuck, try a simple three-part framework:
What you love about them.
What you promise to do (or not do).
A touch of lightness to balance the heart.
This keeps your vows flowing, stops them feeling like a ramble, and makes them easier to deliver.
Balance Heart & Humour
A touch of humour is golden. Mentioning pizza, bad TV habits, or coffee rituals makes your promises feel grounded. Just remember: if your vows start sounding like stand-up, you’ve gone too far.
Practise Out Loud
Silent reading doesn’t count. Speak your vows out loud until the words feel natural. It’ll feel odd the first time, but you’ll thank yourself later.
Closing Line
Wedding vows aren’t about perfect wording. They’re about being real. And if you laugh, cry, or stumble halfway through? That’s the bit everyone will remember most.
Still feeling stuck on your vows? I’ve helped countless couples find the right words — and I’d be glad to help you do the same. Get in touch if you’d like a little guidance before the big day.