This is an archived article and the information in the story may be outdated. Please check the time stamp on the story to see when it was updated last.
It goes without saying that the vows you’ll say to each other at the ceremony are the most important part of the day. You want them to be memorable--for all the right reasons--so be sure to bypass these six mistakes.
[Photo: Ryan Ray Photo]
Writing at the last minute.
The reception can be daunting when it comes to laying plans, and can overshadow something that seems as small as vow planning, says Elena Balkcom of Laurel Avenue. “When couples wait till the last minute to write vows, they start to feel that pressure of finding the right words, and sometimes it means a lot of pacing and note-taking the night before the wedding.”
Sharing too much.
You don't have to mention every single story or experience in your relationship during your vows, says Vanessa Segui of VSM Event Creations. “Be sure not to overshare and make your wedding guests uncomfortable.”
[Photo: Erich McVey]
Not discussing expectations.
It can be a little awkward if one of you says very short vows and the other talks for several minutes, says Kristin Watkins of Stephanie Rose Events. “It’s also awkward if one has very serious and formal vows and the other is cracking jokes and promising to always unclog the toilet. You don’t have to share your vows with your partner before the ceremony, but you should be on the same page as to the length and style.”
Getting over-emotional.
Not everyone wants to shed tears of joy at the altar. If you’re overly emotional, you may want to write the most emotional part of your vows in a letter to your spouse and present it to him before or after the ceremony, says Watkins. “The nerves of the day will make you more likely to be emotional, so when in doubt, leave the very emotional sentiments out of the vows.”
[Photo: Ryan Ray Photo]
Skipping eye contact.
Be conscious about looking at each other, says Alex Chalk of Taylor’d Event Group. “People get nervous and look all over the place. Focus on your partner and let the other people fall into the background.”
[Photo: Ryan Ray Photo]
Forgetting to bring a copy.
Print a couple of copies of your vows if you write them yourself, says Chalk. “I have seen nerves get the better of many couples, and they forget their vows. This allows one of your attendants, the officiant or the wedding planner to save the day and procure the extra copy.”
