One challenge a number of brides and grooms face when writing their wedding vows involves writing vows that sound natural. How can you write something that doesn't sound too cliché? What makes a wedding vow sound genuine?

Here are some ways that couples can write more natural-sounding wedding vows!

Be Yourself

Writing natural-sound wedding vows stems from writing how you speak. It is important to remember that wedding vows sound most natural if you write how you think and how you naturally speak.

One great way to write natural-sounding wedding vows involves using a tape recorder. Record a rough idea of what you want to say and then play it back as you write your vows. You might also want to free think different qualities about your partner and list them while recording. Stop, rewind and replay sections of the recording you like best while you go through the writing process. This will help you have an idea of how you speak and, thus, help create natural-sounding wedding vows.

Write What Sounds Right

The great thing about wedding vows is they don't have to sound like the typical speech you might hear at an event. Wedding vows are a public love letter to your partner, and remembering that the vows are meant for that person can help you craft vows that sound more natural. Include anecdotes about times you have spent together or a small joke you share with one another to make him or her smile. This will not only help you relax because your tone will sound natural, but will help you ease in the transition from standing at the altar listening to the officiate to taking the microphone to speak your vows.

Practice Vows Out Loud

The most natural-sounding wedding vows take lots of practice and editing. Practice your vows in the mirror or with a friend to help make them sound their most natural. If you do not want to memorize your vows, use a small note card with them written on it.

For some brides and grooms, writing out each word of wedding vows might be a temptation to read straight from the card, making the vows sound less natural. You might also choose an outline with key points on the note card to make natural-sounding wedding vows sound their best.

With practice and planning, you can ensure presenting your wedding vows to your partner sounds natural and pleasant to the ear.