How to Write Vows for an Intimate Elopement Ceremony

Writing your vows is a deeply personal part of planning your elopement. Unlike traditional weddings, where vows may be influenced by formality or audience expectations, elopements offer the freedom to craft words that are entirely yours. Here’s how to create vows that feel authentic, meaningful, and perfectly suited for your intimate ceremony.

1. Reflect on Your Journey Together

Start by looking back on the milestones of your relationship. Reflect on how you met, the experiences that strengthened your bond, and the quirks that make your partnership unique. This is your chance to celebrate the little things that make your love story yours—inside jokes, shared adventures, and the moments that brought you closer together.

Consider journaling or brainstorming to capture your thoughts. Ask yourself questions like:

• What drew me to my partner initially?
• What are the qualities I admire most about them?
• How has our relationship grown over time?

2. Capture the Spirit of Eloping

Your decision to elope is a powerful statement about your relationship. Whether you chose an elopement for its intimacy, simplicity, or sense of adventure, let that spirit guide your vows. Acknowledge how the act of eloping reflects your connection, priorities, and love for one another.

For example:

• “Choosing to elope was easy because it’s always been just us—two hearts against the world.”
• “Standing here in nature, I’m reminded of how your love feels like coming home.”

3. Be Raw, Real, and Honest

Elopements are incredibly personal, which means your vows can be too. Speak openly about your feelings, even if it’s a bit vulnerable. Your partner will appreciate the honesty and sincerity that comes with sharing your true emotions.

If you feel stuck, think of your vows as a love letter. Write as if you’re telling your partner how much they mean to you without holding back. This authenticity will make your vows feel timeless and deeply meaningful.

4. Incorporate Specific Memories

Sharing anecdotes or pivotal moments from your relationship helps make your vows more personal and engaging. Whether it’s the time your partner supported you through a difficult moment, a travel adventure, or a quiet evening spent laughing, these details bring your love story to life.

Example:

• “I’ll never forget that snowy night when we got lost on our way to the cabin and ended up singing in the car until sunrise. That’s when I knew I’d found my forever person.”

5. Focus on Meaningful Promises

Vows are about making commitments for the future. Beyond expressing love, share what you’re promising to do for your partner. These promises can be heartfelt, humorous, or both, depending on your relationship dynamic.

Examples of meaningful promises:

• “I promise to always support your dreams, no matter how big they seem.”
• “I vow to be your partner in adventure, your safe place, and your loudest cheerleader.”
• “I promise to never hog all the covers—at least not intentionally.”

6. Keep It Simple and Focused

While it can be tempting to include everything, shorter vows often resonate more. Aim for 1-2 minutes, focusing on the points that matter most to you. Don’t feel pressured to use poetic language if that’s not your style—your partner will value authenticity over perfection.

7. Practice Ahead of Time

Once you’ve written your vows, practice saying them out loud. Hearing the words helps you refine their flow and ensures they feel natural. If you’re nervous, jot them down on a small card or notebook to read from during the ceremony.

Practicing doesn’t mean memorizing; it’s about feeling comfortable with the words you’ve chosen.

8. Use the Natural Setting for Inspiration

If you’re eloping outdoors in a stunning location like Asheville, North Carolina, let the setting inspire your vows. Reference the beauty around you to deepen the connection between your words and the environment.

For example:

• “Standing here surrounded by these mountains, I’m reminded of how steady and strong your love is.”
• “Just like the river that flows endlessly through this forest, my love for you will never stop growing.”

9. End with a Heartfelt Declaration

Finish your vows with a statement that encapsulates your love and commitment. It could be a simple “I love you,” a poetic line, or a powerful promise. This closing ties everything together and leaves a lasting impression.

Sample Vow Structure

Here’s a guide to help you organize your thoughts:

1. Start with why you love your partner or a special memory.
2. Share what makes them unique and what they mean to you.
3. Highlight meaningful promises for the future.
4. End with a heartfelt declaration of love.

Closing Thoughts

Writing vows for an intimate elopement ceremony is an opportunity to celebrate your relationship in its purest form. By reflecting on your journey, embracing authenticity, and focusing on heartfelt promises, you’ll create vows that feel uniquely yours. Let the intimacy of your elopement guide you as you craft words that honor your love and commitment. But, don’t worry we’ve got your back when it comes to small, and big items on your to-do list for your big day, come by and say hi, here!