Ceremony Vow Reading Vs. Private Vow Readings
There are some traditions that are so common that couples don’t even realize when they can take them out of their day all together or do them completely their own way. Wedding vows are one of those traditions. You can profess your love and promises to one another in front of your guests during your ceremony or do them privately, just between the two of you. It is truly up to you. Let’s talk about the pros and cons of ceremony vows vs. private vow readings.
Ceremony Vows
There is something sweet and special about expressing your love in front of all of your family and friends. Having your loved ones share in your love and happiness can really allow them a small peek into your love story together. If the idea of sharing this moment and these vows with all your loved ones sounds nice to you, then this might be the route you would like to take.
Pros
Your family and friends get to share in your love for one another and the promises you make to each other.
This can be a memorable moment for you and your guests to share.
It can add a more personal touch to your ceremony.
Cons
Speaking in front of a crowd might be a bit scary and overwhelming for some and cause stage fright.
It can be very emotional and some couples don’t feel comfortable sharing their emotions and tears in front of a crowd.
This can be very personal and intimate and you may not be comfortable sharing special private moments and promises with all of your guests.
Private Vows
Doing a private vow reading is a much more intimate way to go. This option tends to work well for couples who get nervous in front of a crowd, are more private people with their words and emotions or who might value a more private, intimate and personalized space to share their love for each other. My favorite way to incorporate a private vow reading is to add it in as part of your first look. Once you see each other for the first time and get those wedding day jitters out of your system, you can share a private moment together where you express your love for each other in a quiet and intimate setting. It is such a sweet moment between you as the couple and can be captured by you photographer and/or videographer for you to remember forever. Another great way to incorporate private vow readings, if you don’t want to see each other before the ceremony, would be to write vows to each other to read privately on the morning of. Write your thoughts and feelings down on a paper or in a cute vow book and have your maid of honor or best man help you switch them off to each other the morning of the wedding. While getting ready, take a moment alone to sit down and read your partner’s private words to you.
Pros
A private moment together before the ceremony can help ease pre-wedding jitters and relax your nerves.
It allows for a more quiet, private and intimate setting to express your emotions and feelings without everyone watching.
Will be a memorable moment between the two of you to cherish for a lifetime.
There is far less pressure and can help you feel much more at ease.
Cons
Your family and friends won’t get to hear your personal vows to each other.
There is no wrong way to choose to share your vows and it really depends on what way fits each couple best. Making sure that you and your future spouse are comfortable with your decision is what’s most important. Your love for each other will still be shared with your loved ones, in many different ways, throughout your wedding day and they will still get to celebrate in lots of different moments with you both. So make sure you pick the option that feels right to you and your partner.
Happy Planning!
<3 Naticia
