How to Write Meaningful, Personal Wedding Vows

A wedding photographer’s guide to creating heritage-worthy vows that can be passed down for generations

There is something deeply personal about writing your own wedding vows. It’s not just the words you say in front of loved ones, it’s a moment that tells your story and the life you're building together. As a wedding photographer documenting celebrations across Washington, DC and beyond, I’ve witnessed how powerful these moments can be. The right vows don’t just create beautiful ceremony memories. They create a legacy!

If you're thinking about writing your own vows, here are a few tips to help you craft something heartfelt, honest, and worthy of being passed down for generations.

Start With a Story

The most moving vows are full of memories and dreams. Think back to a moment when you knew this person was your partner. Was it a quiet Sunday morning? A trip where everything went wrong but you still laughed your way through it? A glance across the room when you felt completely seen? These stories are the heart of your vows, and they invite your partner and your guests into something real. Talk about your dreams. How you can’t wait to grow a family with them. Maybe your garden plans will finally happen this year? Talk about it! Read the poetry that makes you cry a little because it reminds you of them.

Pro Tip: Jot down a few shared memories that you can’t avoid feeling emotional about. Build your vows around one that brings you back.

Keep It True to You

Speaking of poetry, you don’t have to write like a poet or perform like a professional speaker. In fact, your vows will mean the most when they sound like your voice. Tender, witty, grounded, emotional… whatever feels like you, trust it.

Pro Tip: Read your vows out loud a few times before the big day. Do they sound natural? Edit until it feels like something you’d actually say on any other day.

Include Promises (Big and Small)

At the heart of every vow is a promise. These don’t have to be overly serious or grand. They can be practical, lighthearted, or deeply emotional. The important part is that they reflect the commitment you’re making, both in the big picture and the everyday. Just a fun example, I promised my husband we would watch his favorite movie series (it’s 9 movies…) every year for Christmas.

Pro Tip: Don’t be afraid to mix tones. Saying "I promise to always save you the last fry" alongside "I promise to fight for us, even when it's hard" creates depth and connection.

Use the Same Format (If You Want)

You don’t have to share your exact vows in advance, but it can help to align on tone and length if you like. Agreeing on general structure makes for a more balanced ceremony, especially if you're aiming for a shared emotional rhythm.

Pro Tip: Touch base about how long each of you plans to speak or whether you'll include a story or just promises.

Time It Out

The sweet spot for wedding vows is, drumroll please, whatever you want it to be! Maybe it’s a quick one to two minutes. Maybe it’s a whole five minutes each. Give yourself enough time to say something meaningful without drifting or losing the moment. Allows space for real, unscripted emotion! Take in the moment.

Pro Tip: Practice with a timer. You might be surprised by how long or short your draft really is.

Final Thoughts

Personal vows are a beautiful way to center your wedding ceremony around what truly matters. They remind everyone present, and you two most of all, that this day is about more than logistics and florals. It’s about your story, your promises to one another, and your love.

And long after the last toast is made and the lights dim, your vows live on. As words to reread, to frame, to pass down.

If you're planning a wedding in DC or beyond and are looking for a photographer who captures legacy-worthy moments with emotion, intention, and artistry, I'd love to talk more about how we can tell your story together. Submit your inquiry form here!

All images below taken while second shooting for Leandra Creative Co. Photography.

A candid moment during wedding prep at the Grand Hyatt Washington in downtown DC shows a groomsman crouched down between the groom's legs, carefully tying the groom's patent leather dress shoes. The groom stands still in a tailored black suit, surrou
In the hallway of the Grand Hyatt Washington, the groom shares a sweet, impromptu dance practice with his mother before the ceremony. He wears a sharp black tuxedo while she stuns in a flowing emerald green gown. Behind them, a stack of hotel linens
The groom and his wedding party stand spaced along the grand staircase of the Grand Hyatt Washington. Their black tuxedos contrast elegantly against the modern wood-paneled wall and striking vertical chandelier, highlighting both architectural design
The bride arrives at Foundry United Methodist Church in Washington, DC, clutching her gown and smiling as she’s shielded from the rain by a clear bubble umbrella. Her classic white wedding dress and long veil flow around her, creating movement agains
In this black and white photo taken outside Foundry United Methodist Church, the bride is seen mid-step as raindrops fall gently around her. Holding a transparent umbrella, she lifts her gown with grace, showing determination and beauty in the face o
The groom and his groomsmen laugh and joke in a candid moment before the ceremony inside a green and white room at Foundry United Methodist Church in Washington, DC. Seated casually in black tuxedos, they radiate camaraderie and ease. The moment capt
Leaning against the windowsill inside Foundry United Methodist Church, the groom laughs during a quiet moment before the ceremony. The leaded glass panes frame his black tuxedo, and the photo’s black and white tones add timeless elegance. The image i
The groom holds the wedding program at Foundry United Methodist Church, showcasing the elegant calligraphy and refined paper design. His black tuxedo and white boutonnière provide a timeless frame for the invitation. The image is a close-up that hono
A wide-angle street view of a historic DC townhouse just outside Foundry United Methodist Church captures the charming brickwork, mature trees, and fast-moving cars. The photo serves as an establishing shot for the wedding day and reflects the urban
A black and white image of the bride walking down the aisle with her father at Foundry United Methodist Church in Washington, DC. Guests turn toward her as she enters, and the groom waits at the altar. The image is captured from above, highlighting t
The newlyweds share a dramatic dip kiss outside Foundry United Methodist Church in DC, surrounded by cheering guests waving ribbon streamers. The church’s detailed stone façade and stained glass windows add grandeur to the celebration. Kathleen is a
A joyful wedding exit moment outside Foundry United Methodist Church in DC. The couple walks hand-in-hand as guests cheer and wave ribbon streamers along the sidewalk. The bride looks up smiling at her new husband as the crowd celebrates. Kathleen is
A monochrome image of a Porsche with a “Just Married” satin ribbon bow on the back, parked outside Foundry United Methodist Church in Washington, DC. A hand is seen signing the marriage license document atop the vehicle, symbolizing the final moments
A luxury black Porsche decorated with a “Just Married” ribbon drives off through the streets of Washington, DC. The bride holds her bouquet out of the window as they drive away. The reflection of the sky and urban buildings shimmers across the car’s
A creative wedding portrait taken inside the National Museum of Women in the Arts. The couple is silhouetted in front of a bold, colorful abstract painting, blending fine art with personal romance. Kathleen is a luxury wedding photographer offering d
The bride and groom share an intimate moment inside the National Museum of Women in the Arts. Framed by surrealist and documentary-style paintings, they embrace beneath soft museum lighting, making their portrait part of the art itself. Kathleen is a
The groom smiles as he gazes at his bride in the gallery at the National Museum of Women in the Arts for their post-ceremony portraits. Framed by classic and modern art, the setting blends refined elegance with emotional storytelling. Kathleen is a l
A behind-the-scenes moment in the National Museum of Women in the Arts as the bride’s veil is adjusted by her wedding party. The groom waits with her bouquet in hand. The photo captures the quiet care and coordination behind a polished wedding day. K
The bride in a classic satin gown holds a bouquet of white peonies while standing near an ornate seating chart that reads "We saved you a seat." A bridesmaid in a black dress walks ahead into the reception space. Captured at the National Museum of Wo
The groom’s mother, dressed in a rich emerald green gown, lifts her phone to take a picture during cocktail hour. Champagne-colored linens and gold flatware add elegance to the National Museum of Women in the Arts event space. Kathleen is a luxury we
A wide-angle view through marble banisters shows round reception tables set with gold candlesticks while the full wedding party poses along the grand staircase in celebration. Photographed at the National Museum of Women in the Arts. Kathleen is a lu
Bridesmaids dressed in sleek black gowns lean over the ornate second-floor balcony of the National Museum of Women in the Arts, laughing and holding white floral bouquets. The architecture glows with soft golden light. Kathleen is a luxury wedding ph
A vintage rotary phone sits beside a bar sign instructing guests to “Ring Ring” and leave a message for the newlyweds. A whimsical and luxe touch captured at the National Museum of Women in the Arts. Kathleen is a luxury wedding photographer offering
A guest’s hand holds a martini glass beside a vintage-style guestbook phone labeled “Ring Ring.” A moody, flash-lit image captured during cocktail hour at the National Museum of Women in the Arts. Kathleen is a luxury wedding photographer offering do
Wedding guests in tuxedos and gowns mingle during cocktail hour at the National Museum of Women in the Arts while the newlyweds sit tucked in the foreground, heads leaning together as they enjoy a private moment. Kathleen is a luxury wedding photogra
The bride and groom sit together on the marble staircase of the National Museum of Women in the Arts, sharing a quiet moment beneath a glowing chandelier. Her gown cascades behind them in soft folds. Kathleen is a luxury wedding photographer offering
A small sparrow stands on the granite edge below the engraved sign for the National Museum of Women in the Arts, offering a charming final touch to the wedding day story. Kathleen is a luxury wedding photographer offering documentary and editorial st
Red wine is poured into a crystal glass by candlelight during cocktail hour at the National Museum of Women in the Arts in Washington, DC. The backlit bottle and rich shadows cast by the bar setup give this moment an editorial, artful aesthetic. Phot
A guest wears a traditional green tartan kilt, cream wool socks, and red garters—an homage to Scottish heritage—during an elegant DC wedding reception at the National Museum of Women in the Arts. The richly detailed textiles and polished dress shoes
Three women dressed in bold black tie wedding eveningwear—black, emerald green, and fuchsia—smile for a candid portrait during cocktail hour at the National Museum of Women in the Arts. They stand near floral arrangements and a candlelit reception ta
Shot in soft black and white, two guests stand quietly by the ornate marble railing of the National Museum of Women in the Arts during a Washington, DC wedding. The woman’s modern gown and the man’s suit silhouette are gently backlit by chandelier gl
A vintage gold tray overflows with personalized wedding matchboxes designed with the couple’s custom illustration and elegant serif typography. Captured at the National Museum of Women in the Arts in Washington, DC, this editorial flat lay highlights
Guests descend the curved marble staircase of the National Museum of Women in the Arts, framed by neoclassical balusters and floral arrangements. A couple at the front, dressed in a satin green gown and black tuxedo, smile as they carry cocktails, ma
In a joyful and emotional moment, the groom lifts his mother off her feet during their barefoot mother-son dance on the marble floor of the National Museum of Women in the Arts. Guests cheer and clap in the background as chandeliers sparkle above, tu
A candid reception dance floor moment at the National Museum of Women in the Arts, where a couple laughs mid-spin. The marble flooring, cocktail glasses, and dark suits give the image a refined, celebratory feel during this Washington, DC wedding. Ph
The bride, radiant in her voluminous satin gown, dances joyfully as a guest in a tartan kilt and fedora takes center stage on the reception dance floor at the National Museum of Women in the Arts in Washington, DC. Surrounded by guests in formalwear,
Groomsmen and friends laugh and dance under glowing party lights at the reception inside the National Museum of Women in the Arts. Dressed in suspenders and bowties, they hold drinks and LED glow sticks, fully immersed in the electric, joy-filled ene
A five-tier vintage-inspired wedding cake adorned with white piped swags sits centered between taper candles on a textured linen-covered table. Guests in black-tie attire mingle in the soft background beneath the soaring ceilings and chandeliers of t
Two wedding guests in black and magenta dresses hold up cocktails and laugh mid-dance, surrounded by a tightly packed, celebratory crowd. The dance floor is lit with glow sticks and handheld lights as the party roars on. Photographed during a luxury
Three men in soaked dress shirts and loosened ties pour multiple bottles of Miller High Life into each other's mouths as a sort of drink tower. Foam spills down the chin of the man on the bottom. The flash-lit moment captures wild laughter and late-n
A McDonald’s cheeseburger, fries, coffee, and bouquet rest on a reception table surrounded by gold picture frame table numbers and fine china. This playful vignette captures the comfort and delight of a late-night fast food surprise at an elegant wed
Two women, one in a silky cobalt blue dress and one in a black one-shoulder gown with pearls, laugh and snack on fast food cheeseburgers and fries while dancing late into the reception. A man in a blue checkered tie stands beside them holding a bottl
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