How to write your best vows for your elopement?

make the best wedding vows of your life

There is a rare truth about eloping : that of two people who choose to say "I do" in private, away from prying eyes and noise. No unnecessary pomp, no imposed staging: just the wind in their hair, a mountain, a shore, or the serenity of a forest. It is in this setting that vows take on their full power. They are no longer a formality, but the beating heart of the ceremony.

As an europe elopement photographer, I often witness these suspended moments. The lens captures tears, smiles, trembling hands. But behind each image, there are words—your words. The words that tell your story, your promises, your dreams. So, how do you write your vows for an elopement when emotions are overflowing and you want to find the right words?

I ) Remember that your vows belong only to you.

By choosing to elope, you want intimacy, or to be surrounded by persons you love the most.  Your vows aren't meant to impress an audience, but to touch the heart of your loved one. You can forget about conventions, rules, and even etiquette. Forget ready-made phrases and write as you would speak to your partner, in the silence of an evening, or during a pillow talk. Forget everything you've read or heard; let your heart speak, and the satisfaction will be all the greater! In my elopement packages, I include a little surprise that you'll only see when you receive the photos! I can't say more for now, but it's very often a touching experience <3

II ) Go back to the beginning of your love story

Start with a memory. The first glance, a phrase he or she said, a seemingly insignificant detail that became essential. Evoking this starting point creates a strong anchor, a way of saying, "We got here in this beautiful elopement venue because of all of this."

A good europe elopement photographer knows this: great stories are often told through details. A smile, a gesture, an awkward moment that becomes charming. Your vows should work the same way: it's the little things that reveal the bigger picture.

III ) embracing vulnerability

Writing your weddings vows means accepting to be vulnerable. It means saying, "This is who I am, this is what I promise you." Don't be afraid of simplicity. Short, honest sentences often resonate more than overly elaborate pronouncements.

Think about what you're truly promising: not unrealistic ideals, but everyday actions. "I promise to laugh with you," "I promise to learn from you, even from my mistakes," "I promise to always listen to you, even when words fail me."

VI ) say yes to imperfection

Finally, remember: your vows don't need to be perfect. Don't spend months or weeks trying to write down the ideal vows. Everyone's imperfections make them charming; the same will be true for vows. What matters isn't eloquence, but sincerity. Even if your words tremble, even if a tear makes your voice falter, that's what your partner will remember. That's what your photos will capture.

And if you can't think of anything to write, don't beat yourself up about it. In the moment, the spontaneous exchange of vows in this special setting will become an unforgettable memory. Don't worry, I always have tissues ! 

Writing your vows for your elopement is like writing a love letter aloud. There's no need to strive for perfection, just speak from the heart. Trust your story, your emotions, and let your words flow with the light of this unique day.

And when you speak them, remember: this moment belongs only to you. I, as your photographer, will be there to capture it, but the essence will always remain in your hearts.

IV) write with the rhythm of the heart

V) read aloud

Your vows don't need to be long. A heartfelt page is better than a drawn-out speech. Like a photograph, your words should capture the essence of your relationship in a single moment.

You can write them in three parts:

1. **Memories**: where you come from; what you have shared since the beginning of your budding love. The overwhelming passion that took root in your hearts.
2. **Present**: what your partner means to you today. The ups and downs, the journey through the not-so-tranquil river; how you still love each other today.
3. **Future**: your promises, your dreams. The future you began writing years ago, and which is confirmed with this ceremony. Growing old, traveling, dying together.

Vows aren't meant to stay on a page, but to be spoken aloud. Read them again, feel their rhythm, their breath. This ritual will allow you to adjust your tone, discard what sounds artificial, and keep what is true. Try reading your elopement vows in front of a mirror, or in front of someone dear to you. If tears well up, you've succeeded! The main thing is that you and your partner can understand what you've written.