8. HOW TO SAY YOUR VOWS

There are a few different ways that you can choose to speak your vows. You may be asked a question from the officiate to which the response is I do. This is certainly the method foremost in our minds. This is ideal for a bride and groom that may be uncomfortable in front of an audience. It simplifies the process and is completely functional. It does lack in individuality and for a couple who wants something more personal, may not be the best choice.

The next choice is to repeat what the officiate says. We have all attended a ceremony demonstrating this method. You may hear the minister/priest say I ____ take you____ and the groom says, I____ take you____ and so forth. This technique is more personal and just as functional without forcing yourself to get over your stage fright. The words are still coming from the officiate.

Some couples may be completely comfortable speaking in front of an audience and prefer the words to come directly from their hearts. These are the custom vows. There is no form that these must follow. The definition of a vow is merely a solemn, lasting promise made unconditionally in the company of spectators. You can sing, dance, speak poetry or keep it simple. Custom vows may result in custom promises. You are not guaranteed to make the same promises to each other. In any of these circumstances, usually the groom says his vows followed by the bride. Occasionally, couples choose to say them together.