How to Write Anniversary Vows That Make Them Cry (In a Good Way)

Weddings are a performance. Anniversary vows are the truth.

When you write vows after 1, 5, or 10 years together, you aren't promising to love a fantasy. You are promising to love the person who forgets to empty the dishwasher and steals the blankets.

That makes them infinitely more romantic.

The Structure of Perfect Vows

Don't just ramble. Follow this arc:

1. The "Remember When"

Start with a specific memory from the last year. "I remember when we got lost in Tokyo and you made it an adventure instead of a disaster."

2. The "Acknowledgement"

Admit that it hasn't been perfect. "I know I haven't been easy to live with this year while I changed jobs."

3. The "Promise"

Make concrete promises for the future. "I promise to always listen to your stories, even if I've heard them before." "I promise to continue dating you, even when we are old."

4. The "Declaration"

End with a reaffirmation of your choice. "I chose you then, I choose you now, and I will choose you tomorrow."

How to Deliver Them

You don't need a ceremony.

• Read them over dinner.
• Record a video of yourself reading them and send it at midnight.
• Create a permanent digital record.

A Digital Time Capsule

Use ILoveYou.gift to create a "Vow Renewal" page.

• Text of your vows.
• Photos from each year you've been together.
• A "Sign Here" button where you both digitally "renew" your contract.

It’s silly, legalistic, and incredibly sweet.

Create Your Vow Renewal Page