How to Write Wedding Vows Without Feeling Awkward
For many couples, writing wedding vows feels exciting… right up until they actually sit down to do it.
Then suddenly it becomes:
“What am I even supposed to say?”
“How serious do I need to be?”
“What if I sound awkward?”
“What if my partner’s vows are way better than mine?!”
As a Brisbane marriage celebrant, I promise you — almost every couple feels this way at first.
The good news? Your wedding vows do not need to sound like poetry or a movie script. The best vows are usually the ones that feel genuine, personal and natural to you as a couple.
If you’re wondering how to write wedding vows without overthinking them, here are my best tips to help make the process feel much easier (and far less stressful!).
What Are Wedding Vows?
Wedding vows are the promises you make to each other during your ceremony.
They can be:
romantic,
funny,
emotional,
simple,
heartfelt,
or a mix of all of those things.
There’s no “perfect” formula.
The best wedding vows reflect your relationship and personalities.
Do You Have to Write Your Own Wedding Vows?
No — absolutely not.
Some couples love writing personal vows, while others prefer:
traditional vows,
modern vow templates (I have many you can choose from)
short and simple promises,
or repeating vows during the ceremony.
There is no right or wrong approach.
As a celebrant, I always help couples choose what feels most comfortable for them.
If writing your own vows feels overwhelming, you can absolutely keep things simple.
How to Write Wedding Vows (Without Feeling Awkward)
1. Write Like You Actually Speak
This is probably the biggest tip I give couples.
Don’t try to sound overly formal or poetic if that’s not who you are.
Your vows should sound like you.
If you’re naturally funny, it’s okay to include humour.
If you’re emotional and sentimental, lean into that.
If you’re both relaxed and low-key, simple vows can be incredibly meaningful.
Authenticity always feels better than perfection.
2. Think About Your Relationship
Before you start writing, think about:
What do you love most about your partner?
What makes your relationship work?
What moments define your relationship?
What promises genuinely matter to you?
The most memorable wedding vows are usually specific and personal.
Even simple details can make vows feel special.
Can Wedding Vows Be Funny?
Yes — absolutely!
Funny wedding vows are incredibly popular, especially for couples wanting a relaxed and personal ceremony.
A little humour helps guests connect with your ceremony and often helps calm nerves too.
Examples might include:
inside jokes,
funny habits,
playful promises,
or light-hearted relationship moments.
The key is balance.
You still want your vows to feel meaningful underneath the humour.
A good mix of heartfelt and funny usually works beautifully.
Wedding Vows Examples
Here are a few simple wedding vows examples to inspire you.
Romantic Wedding Vows Example
“(First name), I knew you were the one for me on our first date when it suddenly started raining and you immediately took off your jacket and held it over my shoulders. Since that night, our path together has been full of so many laughs, adventures and waaaay too many dumplings!
You have given me the two greatest gifts of my life: your love, and our beautiful child (Name) and I can’t wait to see where the future takes us.
Today, it is my honour to become your married partner. I promise to continue building our family together, celebrating our joy, and walking by your side. I love you with all of my heart and more.”
Funny Wedding Vows Example
“I promise to always share my fries… except maybe the really good ones.” (As part of longer vows)
Simple Wedding Vows Example
“(First name), I promise to be your partner, your biggest fan and your safe place no matter what life brings.
I promise you my unconditional love, to not ask you to be more than you are, and to love you for being you. This is my promise for our life together.
(First name), I give you this ring as a sign that I choose you to be my partner and my best friend, until the end of my days. Wear it, think of me, and know that I love you.”
Remember — your vows do not need to be long to be meaningful.
How Long Should Wedding Vows Be?
One of the most common questions couples ask is:
“How long should wedding vows be?”
The sweet spot is usually:
Around 1–2 minutes each.
That’s long enough to feel personal and meaningful without becoming overwhelming or stressful.
Shorter vows often feel more natural and emotional than very long speeches.
Do You Have to Memorise Wedding Vows?
Definitely not.
Most couples read their vows during the ceremony — and that is completely normal.
In fact, reading them often helps couples:
slow down,
stay calm,
and actually enjoy the moment.
You can:
read from vow cards,
use a printed booklet,
or have your vows on your phone if needed.
There’s absolutely no pressure to memorise them.
What If You Feel Nervous Writing Your Wedding Vows?
You are very definitely not alone.
Many couples feel nervous about:
sounding awkward,
getting emotional,
public speaking,
or simply knowing where to start.
That’s why I provide my couples with guidance, examples and support to help make vow writing feel easy and manageable.
Often once couples stop trying to make their vows “perfect”, the words come much more naturally.
Can You Keep Your Wedding Vows Secret?
Yes!
Many couples choose to keep their vows private until the ceremony day.
This can make the moment feel even more emotional and special.
As your celebrant, I can help make sure your vows feel balanced in tone and length without revealing them to each other beforehand. Just send them to me separately in advance and I’ll share with you any feedback and you can choose if you want to take on any feedback or not, completely up to you!
Legal Wedding Vows in Australia
In Australia, there is a required legal wording that must be included during your marriage ceremony.
Your personal vows themselves can still be completely unique and personalised.
As your celebrant, I make sure all legal requirements are covered while still creating a ceremony that feels genuinely personal to you.
Final Thoughts on Writing Wedding Vows
The most beautiful wedding vows are rarely the “perfect” ones.
They are the vows that feel real.
The ones that sound like you.
The ones that make your partner smile.
The ones that capture your relationship honestly.
Whether your vows are romantic, funny, emotional or beautifully simple — they only need to mean something to the two of you.
And honestly? That’s what your guests will remember too ❤️
Looking for Help Writing Your Wedding Vows?
As a Brisbane marriage celebrant, I help couples create relaxed, meaningful and personal ceremonies — including support with writing vows that feel natural and authentic.
Whether you want:
romantic vows,
funny wedding vows,
simple vows,
or just help getting started,
I’m always happy to guide you through the process. Please let me know if you have any questions about writing your wedding vows, I’d be very happy to help.
Have fun!
Trudy the Celebrant x
