How to Write Your Vows: A Step-by-Step Guide

Timeless words for a timeless love.

Writing your own vows can feel like one of the most meaningful — and most intimidating — parts of wedding planning. How do you put such deep feelings into words? How do you balance emotion, humor, and authenticity?

At The Keepsake Co., we believe your vows should sound and feel like you — honest, heartfelt, and perfectly imperfect. Whether you're a poet at heart or someone who's never written more than a grocery list, this step-by-step guide will help you craft words you'll treasure forever.

Step 1: Reflect on Your Relationship

Before you start writing, take a moment to remember your story. How did you meet? What moments defined your love? What makes your relationship different from any other?

Ask yourself:

• When did I know they were "the one"?

• What do I love most about them?

• How have we grown together?

• What do I hope our future looks like?

Tip: Look through old photos, texts, or journal entries — they'll remind you of the emotions and milestones that shaped your journey.

Step 2: Choose a Tone That Feels Authentic

Your vows don't have to sound like anyone else's. They can be romantic, poetic, playful, or simple and sincere — as long as they reflect your voice.

Examples:

• Romantic: "You are my home, my safe place, and my greatest adventure."

• Playful: "I promise to always share the blanket — even when you hog it."

• Poetic: "In your eyes, I found a forever I didn't know I was searching for."

Whatever tone you choose, make sure your words sound natural when spoken aloud.

Step 3: Set a Structure

Think of your vows as a story — with a beginning, middle, and end. A simple structure helps you stay focused and balanced:

1. Start with your story: How you met or a favorite memory.

2. Reflect on your love: What makes your relationship special.

3. Make your promises: These are your vows — the heart of your message.

4. Look ahead: Share what you're excited to build together.

Keeping your vows about 1-2 minutes ensures they're heartfelt and memorable without becoming overwhelming.

Step 4: Write From the Heart (Not Perfection)

Forget the pressure of being "perfect". Speak like you're talking directly to your partner. Be vulnerable. Be real. The most beautiful vows are honest — not polished.

Pro Tip: Start with bullet points or rough sentences. You can polish them later. The goal is to capture what you feel, not write a masterpiece.

Step 5: Include Personal Promises

This is your chance to make it deeply personal. Mix classic vows with fun or meaningful promises unique to your relationship.

Examples:

• "I promise to always make you coffee first."

• "I vow to support your dreams as fiercely as my own."

• "I promise to keep choosing you — every single day."

Step 6: Edit and Practice

Once you've written your vows, read them aloud — slowly. This helps you hear rythem, catch awkward. phrasing, and connect emotionally to your words. Try reading them in fornt of a mirror or to a trusted friend. Adjust anything that doesn't sound natural or feels too long. And on the day itself — print or write them neatly on a keepsake card. (Hint: We love creating custom vow Cards for our couples as part of The Keepsake Experience.)

Step 7: Keep Them a Secret (If You Can)!

While it's tempting to share your vows ahead of time, keeping them a surprise can make the moment even more emotional. That first time hearing each other's promises — in front of your loved ones — is pure magic.

Final Thoughts

Your vows are more than words — they're a refelction of your love story, your commitment, and your future together. Don't worry about making them perfect; focus on making them true. At The Keepsake Co., we believe in moments that last a lifetime — and your vows are one of the most beautiful keepsakes of all.