Tips and handy hints

 

 

Tips for preparing your marriage vows

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Here are some tips for your Wedding vows which are an important part of the wedding ceremony.

My role as a celebrant is to assist couples with the process.

It is worth highlighting that there are some minimum words that must be included in vows. According to the Marriage Act 1961 the vows must contain as a minimum the following words : “I call upon the persons here present to witness that I (name) take thee, (name) to be my lawful wedded wife (or husband)” or words to that effect.

There is the potential for slight alterations to these minimum words so long as the meaning of the vows are not changed.

Vows can be as long as a couple likes and their words can be different.

Marriage is a relationship with great public significance. Marriage vows are viewed as a declaration, promise or commitment.

Many couples that I marry also choose ‘other vows’ in addition to the ‘legal’  words. Vows that describe the sort of life they promise to give to each other or the things they love about their partner. Couples choose from traditional vows, contemporary, religious or interfaith vows, or compose their own.

I have many examples of vows and tips that I can provide you to assist you in writing your own

 

Here is an example:

 

‘When times get tough in our marriage, I promise to persevere and stand by you, to be patient, understanding and courageous.

I promise to be the best person I can be for you, and for me.

I promise to respect your opinions and feelings even if we have different points of view.

When you feel stressed, uncertain, anxious or sad, I promise to be your ‘safe-haven’ and your listening ear.

When you dare to take risks or make mistakes in life, I promise I will support you and not criticize you.

I promise to consider your needs, even if it involves sacrifice on my part, which I aim to make without reluctance or resentment.

I promise to be faithful to you, and if I have doubts or insecurities, I promise to be courageous and share them with you.’

 

For some couples, the vows are even more important than the dress, suits, venue, photography, cake, and catering!

After all, it’s the marriage vows that give meaning to the wedding day. It is the declaration that is important.  Words are tools for us to use to convey our feelings or state our intentions and a short vow can be just as meaningful as a long vow.

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Here is some interesting reading:

 

“10 things no one tells you about your wedding”  CLICK HERE