Writing your elopement vows can feel a little overwhelming especially when you’re eloping somewhere as epic as Yosemite or Sequoia. It’s easy to think your words need to be just as grand as the views, but the truth is, your vows don’t have to be perfect, they just have to be you! These 10 prompts will help you dig into the heart of what really matters and say it in a way that feels honest, personal, and unforgettable.

Why Elopement Vows Feel Different (and Amazing)

You’re not standing at an altar in front of 150 people, you’re surrounded by mountains, trees, cliffs, or maybe even wrapped up in a blanket with your person while the sun rises. Because the setting is more personal and intimate, your words can be too. And honestly? That’s the magic of it!  Still, I get it, when it’s time to write those vows, it’s easy to feel like they have to be epic. But truly, the best elopement vows are the ones that are real, honest, and true to your story. As a Yosemite elopement photographer and officiant, I’ve heard so many incredible vows! And they all started with a few simple thoughts like the ones below.

Tips for Writing Your Elopement Vows

Before diving into prompts, here are a few quick tips to help you get started:

• Do a brain dump. Don’t edit, just write.
• Write like you’re talking to your partner, not giving a speech.
• Keep a copy on your phone AND a paper version (just in case).
• Don’t worry about being poetic, just be honest!
• Read them out loud ahead of time to see how they feel.

If you’re wondering how to write elopement vows that feel meaningful and personal, these are the baby steps that help you get there.

10 Elopement Vow Writing Prompts

Use these as a starting point: take what you need, skip what doesn’t fit.

1. When did you know you were in love?
That one moment, what was happening? How did it feel?

2. What is something they do that always makes you smile?
Could be something big or small, but this shows how well you really see them.

3. What do you admire most about your partner?
Not just surface-level, what’s something in their character that you respect deeply?

4. What have you learned from them?
Elopement vows often reflect growth. What’s something you’ve discovered because of them?

5. What are your favorite memories together?
Pick one or two moments that helped shape your relationship.

6. How do they make you feel when you’re at your worst?
This one’s raw but sometimes those are the most powerful vows.

7. What are you most excited to experience together?
What’s the life you’re building? Speak it into existence.

8. Why did you choose to elope with them out here in the wild?
Tie your story into the place. Why does it feel right?

9. What do you promise to always do?
Keep it simple and from the heart.

10. What’s one word that sums up your love?
Now build a sentence or two around that word.

Real-Life Inspiration: Nathan & Cassie in Yosemite Elopement

During Nathan and Cassie’s elopement in Yosemite, their vows were everything. They had a sunrise first look at Tunnel View, read private vows as the sun spilled over the valley, and it was quiet, intentional, and beautifully raw. Later that afternoon, they had a ceremony surrounded by their closest people at Bridalveil Fall where they not only shared vows with each other, but also made promises to each other’s kids. It wasn’t just romantic elopement vows it was a reflection of two families becoming one, and it had everyone (including me) in tears! See photos from their day here!

Should We Write Our Vows Together or Separately?

There’s no one-size-fits-all answer here. Writing together can take the pressure off and help you stay aligned. Writing separately often leads to more emotional moments and surprise.

Some couples even write a shared paragraph and then add their own personal vows after. No matter what you choose, I always help my couples carve out space in the timeline for a private vow exchange if they want it!

Elopement Day Vow Tips

• Bring tissues (for you and your photographer)
• Keep your vows in your bouquet wrap, bag, or pocket
• Have your officiant hold a backup copy
• Take your time, breathe, pause, let it land

No Pressure Just Your Love, in Your Words!

At the end of the day, your vows don’t need to sound like a love poem. They just need to sound like you. Speak from the heart, let the setting inspire you, and don’t be afraid if your voice shakes. That’s when it matters most. As a Yosemite and Sequoia National Park elopement photographer, elopement vows are one of my favorite parts of the day! I want to be a part of your Yosemite or Sequoia Elopement! See more of my work here and contact me here! I can’t wait to hear from you!