When it comes to exchanging wedding vows, it is a deeply personal and meaningful moment in a couple’s journey towards marriage. The words spoken during this exchange serve as a promise, a commitment, and a declaration of love and devotion between two individuals. While there is no one-size-fits-all answer to what you should say when exchanging wedding vows, there are traditional vows that many couples use as a foundation for their own personalized promises.
Typically, the exchange of wedding vows begins with the officiant asking one partner to repeat after them, saying, “With this ring, I ask you to be my (wife/husband/partner).” This is a powerful statement that signifies the intention to enter into a lifelong partnership. It shows a willingness to commit to each other and embark on a shared journey.
The next part of the vows often includes the phrase, “to have and to hold from this day forward.” These words affirm the desire to be there for each other, to support one another, and to be present in each other’s lives moving forward. It implies a promise to always be there, through thick and thin, and to hold onto each other tightly, never letting go.
The vows then continue, “for better for worse, for richer, for poorer, in sickness and in health.” This is a recognition of the reality that life has its ups and downs, its joys and sorrows. It is a promise to stand by each other’s side through the good times and the bad, through times of abundance and times of scarcity, and through times of health and times of illness. It signifies a commitment to weather the storms of life together and to support and love one another unconditionally.
The next part of the vows often includes the promise, “to love and to cherish you.” Love is at the core of any marriage, and this promise emphasizes the importance of nurturing and cherishing the relationship. It signifies a commitment to prioritize the well-being and happiness of one’s partner and to always strive to deepen the love between them.
Lastly, the vows often conclude with the words, “for time and all eternity.” This phrase carries a sense of foreverness, of a commitment beyond the bounds of time. It symbolizes the intention to love and remain devoted to each other not just in this lifetime but for all eternity.
While these traditional vows provide a foundation, many couples choose to personalize their vows to reflect their unique relationship and values. Some couples may choose to incorporate personal anecdotes, inside jokes, or shared experiences into their vows. Others may decide to write their own vows entirely, expressing their feelings and promises in their own words.
Ultimately, the words spoken during the exchange of wedding vows should come from the heart. They should reflect the love, commitment, and promises that the couple wishes to make to each other. It is a beautiful opportunity to express one’s deepest feelings and hopes for the future together.
When exchanging wedding vows, it is important to speak from the heart and choose words that resonate with both partners. Whether using traditional vows or personalizing them, the exchange of vows is a powerful and meaningful moment that sets the tone for a lifetime of love and companionship.