How to Write Wedding Vows

By a Yamba Celebrant Who’s Heard It All… and Loved Every Second of It

For many people, writing your wedding vows can feel like a lot.

You’re trying to sum up your entire relationship, your person, your future… and somehow make it sound effortless, meaningful -and not like you panic-googled “how to write vows” at 11pm the night before.

If you’re getting married somewhere beautiful and relaxed like Yamba, the Clarence Valley, or anywhere along the Northern NSW coast… your day should be relaxed too; even the personal vows you share with one another.

But here’s what I always say as a celebrant:

Your vows don’t need to be perfect. They just need to be real.

This guide will walk you through how to write vows that feel natural, warm, a little bit fun… and completely you.

What Are Wedding Vows, Really?

At their core, vows are simple.

They’re your promises.Your love story.Your moment to stand in front of your favourite people and say:

“This is my person… and this is how I will love them.”

Whether you’re planning a relaxed beach wedding in Yamba, a riverside ceremony in the Clarence Valley, or a hinterland celebration in Northern NSW—this is the part people remember.

And the best bit?

Your vows don’t have to sound like poetry or a movie script.

They can be:

• heartfelt

• funny

• a little cheeky

• deeply emotional

• or a mix of everything

That’s where the magic is.

Before You Start Writing: (Do this First)

This step gets skipped all the time, but it makes a huge difference.

Have a quick chat with your partner about:

• Tone – are you going romantic, relaxed, funny?

• Length – aim for around 2–5 minutes

• Style – structured or more free-flowing?

Because nothing feels more awkward than one person delivering a stand-up comedy set…while the other is giving a full Shakespearean monologue.

A Simple Structure That Actually Works

If you’re staring at a blank page thinking “where do I even start?”- consider some of the following tips.

1. Start With Your Story

Take us back to the beginning.

• How did you meet?

• What did you first notice?

• What did you really think at the time?

This is the part where everyone leans in.

2. Talk About Who They Are (and Why You Love Them)

This is where it gets personal—in the best way.

• What makes them them?

• What do they do that no one else does?

• How do they balance you?

Say the things you don’t always say out loud.

3. Make Real Promises (This Is the Heart)

This is what turns words into vows.

Mix:

• the meaningful

• the everyday

• the slightly ridiculous

That combination? That’s what makes people laugh and cry.

4. Look Ahead

Talk about your future together.

• what you’re building

• what you’re excited for

• how you’ll face life as a team

Especially here in Northern NSW, where so many couples are building beautiful, grounded lives together - this part really lands.

5. Finish Strong

Keep it simple.Keep it clear.Let it land.

A Quick Note on Humour (Because Everyone Asks)

Funny vows are always a hit—when they’re done right.

Just keep this in mind:

• Make your partner feel loved, not exposed

• Avoid anything that could embarrass them

• Keep jokes inclusive (not just inside jokes)

If people are laughing and tearing up… you’ve absolutely nailed it.

Practice (Yes… You Actually Need To)

I know - it feels awkward.

But saying your vows out loud before your wedding day:

• helps calm nerves

• smooths out anything clunky

• makes everything feel more natural

Even just once or twice makes a big difference.

Real-Style Vow Examples (Warm, Fun & Honest)

Here are two examples inspired by real couples I’ve worked with across Yamba and the Clarence Valley - relaxed, genuine, and full of heart.

Example – Him

“Today I’m standing here marrying my best friend… my partner in everything… and honestly, the woman who has shown incredible patience sticking with me through some tough times, questionable fashion choices and a few years of average haircuts.

But somehow, you saw something in me, and as everyone can see today, you’ve done a pretty good job turning things around.

You are the most thoughtful, generous, quietly strong person I know. You care deeply about everyone around you… and still make me feel like the most important person in the room.

With you, life has never felt complicated. It’s always just felt right.

I promise to listen - even when your stories take the scenic route. I promise to support your dreams and all the ideas you bring to life. I promise to keep showing up for us - especially on the hard days.

And I promise to build a life with you that feels steady, safe, and full of love.

I didn’t always believe in marriage… but loving you changed that.

So thank you for choosing me. And for letting me choose you - today and every day after.”

Example – Her

“You know me better than anyone… and somehow you still decided I was a good idea.

You’ve never tried to change me. You’ve just loved me as I am, and made that feel easy.

I admire your patience more than anything. You take the time to understand me… even when I’m not making much sense, and you always lead with kindness.

You’re the person I want beside me for everything - the big moments, the stressful days, and all the ordinary in-between bits.

I should be honest… marriage won’t suddenly make me a morning person - so packed lunches at sunrise are still unlikely.

But what I do promise is this…

I promise to love you consistently... not just when things are easy.I promise to remind us how lucky we are.I promise to stand beside you, support you, and believe in you always.

We’ll face everything as a team. And when life feels messy, we’ll work through it, not walk away.

You ground me. You calm me. You make life feel full.

You’re not just who I want.You’re who I choose always.”

Final Thoughts (From a Yamba Celebrant)

If you take one thing from this, let it be this:

Your vows don’t need to impress anyone.They just need to feel like you.

Whether you’re getting married on a beach in Yamba, along the Clarence River, or anywhere across Northern NSW - your ceremony should feel personal, relaxed, and genuinely yours.

And if you’re feeling stuck… that’s completely normal. I help couples with this all the time.

Planning Your Wedding in Yamba or the Clarence Valley?

If you’re looking for a celebrant in Yamba, Clarence Valley or Northern NSW who will help you create a ceremony (and vows) that feel relaxed, meaningful, and completely you…

I’d love to be part of it.

👉 Reach out here or get in touch to start planning your ceremony.