Why Personal Vows are SO Important (Everyone was fighting for their lives during this ceremony)
When you imagine your wedding ceremony, what stands out to you? The styling, the venue, the flowers — sure, of course they do. But the words? That’s where the real magic happens.
Recently, I had the absolute joy of photographing an intimate wedding at Canada Lodge and Lake, a stunning venue just outside Cardiff in South Wales. Tucked away in the Welsh countryside, Canada Lake offers a beautiful lakeside setting — perfect for couples dreaming of a peaceful, scenic backdrop.
Until this wedding a few weeks ago, I had no idea that the venue actually had a (equally as gorgeous) smaller space for intimate ceremonies and receptions too! So, if you’re looking for a smaller wedding, make sure you check it out!
This particular ceremony was extra special. The couple had chosen to invite only their immediate family, creating the most heartfelt, personal atmosphere. And the real showstopper? They wrote their own vows.
Why Personal Vows Are So Powerful
When the couple stood up and spoke from the heart, there wasn’t a dry eye in the venue. (Not even me or the videographers — and we do this for a living!) Personal vows have this incredible ability to transform a wedding ceremony from beautiful to unforgettable.
If you're sitting there googling "should we write personal vows for our wedding ceremony?" — the answer is a resounding yes. Here’s why:
1. They make your ceremony truly yours.
No two couples are the same, so why should your vows be? Writing your own vows lets you tell your story — the little inside jokes, the promises that really matter, the love that’s unique to you.
2. Personal vows create emotional moments you'll never forget.
There’s something about hearing your partner’s promises in their own words that hits differently. Real, raw, unscripted emotions have a way of pulling everyone in — family, friends, photographers — everyone.
3. They make your ceremony memorable for your guests, too.
Even at a wedding with just close family, the atmosphere when the couple read their vows at Canada Lodge was electric. Everyone was fully present, hanging on every word.
Tips for Writing Your Own Wedding Vows
If you're wondering how to actually sit down and write personal vows without panicking, here are a few tips:
Start early: Don’t leave it to the week before the wedding.
Speak from the heart: Forget trying to sound poetic or perfect.
Include personal stories: The quirks, the adventures, the small moments — that’s what makes it real.
Keep it about 2–3 minutes long: Just enough to say everything without losing your guests.
Practice out loud: It will help calm your nerves on the big day!
Planning an Intimate Wedding at Canada Lodge and Lake
If you're dreaming of a relaxed, intimate wedding surrounded by nature, Canada Lodge and Lake is the perfect venue. With its beautiful lake, woodland surroundings, and the option to host smaller, more personal ceremonies, it’s a favourite for couples wanting a peaceful South Wales wedding.
As a wedding photographer based in South Wales, I’ve seen a lot of venues, but Canada Lake always stands out for its serene, romantic vibe — especially for couples who want to write and share personal vows.
Final Thoughts
If you’re debating whether to write your own vows — do it. Trust me, there’s nothing more powerful than hearing your partner tell you exactly why they love you in their own words. It's raw, real, and unforgettable. (And yes, we will all be fighting for our lives holding back tears!)
If you’re planning your wedding at Canada Lodge and Lake, or elsewhere in South Wales, and want a photographer who captures those candid, emotional moments, I’d love to chat.
Get in touch here to find out more about working together.