Writing Wedding Vows with a Civil Celebrant - with Examples
One of the great privileges of a civil celebrant wedding is choice. You’re not locked into a prescribed set of words; instead, you can shape your vows to reflect your story, your promises, and your sense of humour (if you have one—no judgement if not).
Vows can be traditional, personal, playful, or all three. And the best part? They can be written for any couple, regardless of gender, belief, or background. Below, I’ve gathered examples to help you find the right words for your moment at the altar.
Traditional Vows (with a Civil Twist)
Sometimes the classics endure for a reason. They’re short, solemn, and timeless—ideal for couples who like tradition but want the ceremony to feel modern.
“I take you as my partner in life, to have and to hold, from this day forward.”
“I promise to stand by your side, in joy and in sorrow, in strength and in weakness.”
“With this ring, I give you my heart. May it always remind us of the love we share.”
(Tip: A celebrant can adjust the language—so instead of ‘husband’ or ‘wife,’ you can simply say ‘partner,’ ‘spouse,’ or use each other’s names.)
Modern, Personal Vows
Civil celebrants encourage you to write vows that feel like you—which means yes, you can include mentions of Sunday coffee rituals or who really loads the dishwasher better.
“I promise to always make room for your shoes by the door, even when there are six pairs already.”
“I vow to be your biggest fan, your fiercest ally, and the one who remembers where you left your keys.”
“I promise to share in your dreams, to support your ambitions, and to always remind you when it’s bin night.”
“I vow to love you as you are today, as you will be tomorrow, and as you grow in ways I can’t yet imagine.”
Romantic Vows
For couples who want language that’s inclusive and avoids traditional roles, these vows keep things universal.
“I promise to honour and respect you, to be faithful and supportive, and to cherish the life we are building together.”
“You are my heart, my home, and my safe place. Today I choose you, and every day I will keep choosing you.”
“I vow to laugh with you, comfort you, and walk beside you through all that life brings.”
“With this ring, I celebrate the love we’ve found and the future we’ll share.”
Playful Vows (because love can be funny)
Not everyone wants to be serious. Civil ceremonies leave space for vows that make your guests smile as much as they make them tear up.
“I promise not to fast-forward through the series we’re watching—unless you fall asleep first.”
“I vow to share my chips, even when I said I wasn’t hungry.”
“I promise to always be your emergency contact, no matter how ridiculous the situation.”
“I vow to love you even when you forget to put the bins out… every. single. week.”
Faith-Inspired Vows (Optional Religious Elements)
If faith is important, it can be woven into the ceremony without taking over. Here are examples that balance reverence with modernity:
“I promise, before God and our loved ones, to walk with you in faith, love, and hope.”
“May our union be blessed with patience, kindness, and grace as we share life’s journey.”
“I vow to love you as Christ loves the Church: faithfully, sacrificially, and endlessly.”
“With God as my witness, I promise to stand beside you in strength and in joy.”
In Summary
Your vows are the centrepiece of a civil celebrant wedding ceremony—a rare chance to say something meaningful without needing to rhyme or quote Shakespeare (unless you want to). Whether you keep them traditional, add humour, or draw on faith, the right vows will sound like you.
Because at the end of the day, the only audience that really matters is the person standing across from you.
Want More Than Just Ceremony Tips?
If you’ve made it this far, chances are you’re planning a wedding (or you just really enjoy reading about them—no judgement). Either way, my wedding celebrant services might be what you’re looking for. From writing vows that sound like you to making sure the ceremony runs smoother than your uncle-in-law’s dance moves, I’ve got you covered.