Because of movies like “The Vow” and characters like Monica and Chandler from “Friends,” you have a lot to live up to when it comes to baring your soul to your best friend. Writing your own vows is such an intimate and romantic way to share your feelings for one another as you stand up at the altar starting your journey together. But sometimes it can be hard to put those emotions and feelings down on paper to express exactly how much this day and this person means to you.

Ask yourself important questions
If you’re not sure where to start, sit down with a blank piece of paper and ask yourself questions like “Why am I marrying this person?” and “Why does he or she make me so happy?” By thinking about the reasons why you love your future spouse so much, it’s going to be much easier than you think to translate your feelings into the perfect vows.

Start early
The day before your wedding probably isn’t the best time to start sitting down and writing your vows. You may be too excited and rushed to get them done. Instead, give them the time and attention they deserve by starting about three weeks before the wedding. Have your final version completed at least two days before your nuptials so that you feel comfortable reading them and you’re happy with what you have.

Set the tone
How do you want your vows to sound? Some take a humorous tone, while other couples stick to being romantic or poetic. By deciding on an overall tone, your vows will flow and sound coordinated. Whatever you choose, make sure it’s from the heart.

Look for inspiration
Let’s be honest, movies and television do it best when it comes to pouring your heart out to the love of your life. So who said you can’t look to your favorites for inspiration? Borrow certain words and phrases freely from any movies, TV shows, books, poetry or religious and spiritual texts to create personalized vows that ring true for you and your partner.

Read them aloud
After you’ve finished writing your vows, read them aloud to yourself. When you read them out loud, you can play editor and figure out which parts flow well and which sentences may need rearranging. If you feel comfortable, you could even read them to a friend to get a second opinion.

Are you writing your own vows? Share your thoughts with us!