I was lucky enough to be invited along to our friend’s big day, this was the first time I have ever saw a full-on floral wall mural used in a wedding, it was beautiful. This was when I knew I needed to stay on top of the latest mural wallpaper trending designs. I figured there has to be a way to include wall murals in my home. I decided to put in living room wallpaper that fits my personality and that’s exactly what I did.

1) Pinterest  2) Marvin Tsai  3) Mike Brensen Photography  4) Flickr  5) Kay English  6) Finishing Touch Event Design  7) Village Green Florist (Violet Vendor)  8) Buy Poppy Pods  9) Everly True (Tumblr)  10) Melissa Tuck Photography  11) iphone wallpapers  12) Pinterest  13) Cakes We Bake  14) Minnesota Bride

Your vows should be personal and meaningful. Composing your own wedding vows is the perfect way to express your true feelings to your soon-to-be-spouse in front of your family and loved ones. As such, they can make your wedding day even more memorable and special.

Guide to Unique Wedding Vows for the Modern Couple

Why traditional wedding vows may not work out today?

Modern wedding vows have come a long way over the years. This is partially due to the fact that marriage as an institution has involved. With so many people having second or third marriages, traditional wedding vows are no longer the norm. Most couples who are having a second wedding want their vows to be completely different from those they recited at their first marriage ceremony.

As well, same-sex marriages are more common, traditional and practical wedding vows no longer apply. The rules and meaning of marriage have changed and progressed over years, so why shouldn’t your vows change to fit the times?

Feminist-friendly Wedding Vows

How does one choose contemporary wedding vows if they are gender neutral or non-conforming? As well, today’s feminists do not agree with the wedding vows of yesteryear as they are extremely outdated, not to mention biased against women.

This is why many modern day couples are composing their own feminist wedding vows to fit their specific relationship. With so many types of relationships and genders today, there is no reason you have to stick with the norm. Feel free to express the true nature of your love in any way you see fit. After all, it is your wedding!

Here are some examples of alternative wedding vows:

“Love is tricky. It is never mundane or daily. You can never get used to it. You have to walk with it, then let it walk with you. You can never balk. It moves you like the tide. It takes you out to sea, then lays you on the beach again. Today’s struggling pain is the foundation for a certain stride through the heavens. You can run from it but you can never say no.” ~ Amy Tan, ‘The Hundred Secret Senses’

“Love is the ultimate outlaw. It just won’t adhere to any rules. The most any of us can do is to sign on as its accomplice. Instead of vowing to honor and obey, maybe we should swear to aid and abet. That would mean that security is out of the question. The words “make” and “stay” become inappropriate. My love for you has no strings attached. I love you for free.”  ~ Tim Robbins, ‘Still Life with Woodpecker’

Create your own unique wedding vows

So how does one come up with unique wedding vows? It is much easier than you think! All you need to do is take a few minutes to think of the many reasons why you love your betrothed. Think about why you want to spend the rest of your lives together.

When composing your creative wedding vows you should also keep in mind the theme and style of your wedding. This may even help you compose your vows much easier.

Take some time to think of how you felt the day you met, the first time you said “I love you” and how you felt the day you got engaged. Speak directly from the heart and don’t hold back. And remember, they don’t have to be sappy or over-the-top. Your wedding vows can be light, fun and humorous as well. Stay true to yourself and the words will flow!

Here are some unique wedding vows examples for your inspiration:

“My love, you are the answer to my prayers. You are a dream come true: everything I have ever hoped for or wished for. I came alive the day we met. You are the air I breathe and my heart and soul are yours forever. I cannot wait to start this beautiful journey together and wake up every day next to you, I want to grow old with you and I will love you until I breathe my last.”

“I promise to love you forever: despite the fact that you steal the covers and hog the remote, I will love you on good days and bad. And that means I will love you whether or not the Eagles ever win another Superbowl. I promise to change the water filter and refill the toilet paper. And to be polite to your mother, even though she won’t forget the time I kept you out past curfew when we were sixteen.”

See how easy it is? You can most certainly create your own personal and epic wedding vows!

Empower yourself with epic wedding vows from songs, movies, TV, and books

If you have trouble composing your own creative vows, you can borrow real wedding vows from music or literature. Why not steal a line from your favorite movie or television show?

Look to the poets for beautiful love quotes to use as your wedding vows. The possibilities for romantic and beautiful wedding vows are endless. Following are some examples of “borrowed” wedding vows:

Television: Friends: Monica and Chandler:

Monica: Chandler, for so long I wondered if I would ever find my prince, my soulmate. Then three years ago, at another wedding, I turned to a friend for comfort. And instead, I found everything that I’d ever been looking for my whole life.
And now, here we are, with our future before us—and I only want to spend it with you, my prince, my soulmate, my friend. Unless you don’t want to. You go!

Chandler: Monica, I thought this was going to be the most difficult thing I ever had to do. But when I saw you walking down that aisle I realized how simple it was. I love you. Any surprises that come our way, it’s okay, because I will always love you. You are the person I was meant to spend the rest of my life with.

Movies:The Vow: Paige and Leo

Paige: I vow to help you love life, to always hold you with tenderness and to have the patience that love demands. To speak when words are needed and to share the silence when they are not. To agree to disagree on red velvet cake, and to live within the warmth of your heart and always call it home.

Leo: I vow to fiercely love you in all of your forms, now and forever. I promise to never forget this is a once in a lifetime love. And to always know in the deepest part of my soul that no matter what challenges might carry us apart, we will always find our way back to each other.

Books: Jane Eyre:  Charlotte Bronte

“I have for the first time found what I can truly love — I have found you. You are my sympathy, my better self, my good angel. I am bound to you with a strong attachment. I think you good, gifted, lovely: a fervent, a solemn passion is conceived in my heart; it leans to you, draws you to my center and spring of life, wraps my existences about you. And, kindling in pure, powerful flame, fuses you and me in one.”

Music: Night and Day: Billie Holiday

“Night and day you are the one. Only you beneath the moon and sun. Whether near me or far, it’s no matter, darling, where you are. I think of you night and day, day and night.”

We hope that you are moved to compose your own unique wedding vows. Look deep into your heart and soul and the words will flow like magic!

Photographer: Bella Notte Photography / Decor & Vintage Rentals: Bella Amore Events / Floral Designer: Fleur de Lis Fresh Flowers / Personal Stylist: Maddy Thun / Etsy Designer: R&R Furniture / Dress Store: Rent The Runway / Invitation Designer: Samuel Ludin  / Ceremony Location: Silverwood Park / Event Venue: Silverwood Park St. Anthony / Cake Designer: The Copper Hen Cakery & Kitchen / Design and Decor: West Elm Edina / Submitted via Two Bright Lights

Read the digital version on any device, or purchase a print copy here.


Cover Photo: Ashley Sawtelle / Floral Design: European Flower Shop / Styling: Laurel & Rose

Inside you’ll find 134 pages of beautiful inspiration like the glimpse below from photographer Connie Whitlock. Plus the love stories of six real couples.

As always, each issue has a round-up of hand picked natural beauty items to help you look and feel your best on your big day. You can also visit Sweet Violet Beauty for even more natural beauty finds.

I can’t wait to hear what you think about issue 4 and hope you all enjoy the beauty it contains! xo – Naomi

Mini Woodland Terrarium Favors: DIY via Evermine

Fairy Folk Weddings

Corked Honey via 100 Layer Cake

Felted White Acorn Ornaments by The Grey Woods

Amanda Hein Photography

Wood Slice Magnets DIY via Suburble

Build Your Own Trail Mix Bar: Pinterest / Destination Wedding Mag

Wood Slice Tea Lights via Jadyn Welch Photography

Edible Chocolate Twigs by Andie’s Specialty Sweets

Wood Bark Colored Pencils, Sawatdeee

Pinecone Lip Balm, For Strange Women

Arboretum
This might not be the first place that comes to mind, but there are several around the country that are happy to host weddings. An arboretum, by the way, is essentially a collection of trees but more commonly these days is also a botanical garden containing living collections of woody plants intended at least partially for scientific study. Check out the navy + pink arboretum wedding we featured last year.

Jerry Yoon Photographers

Garden
Romantic, beautiful, classic. Similar to arboretums, if you enjoy botanical beauty and a classy yet natural atmosphere then a garden wedding is an elegant and timeless choice. So many botanic gardens now offer wedding packages. Of course there are all sorts of gardens out there … probably just as many as there are personalities who designed them. Some may have greenhouses that you can use for photos, or even your reception, while others you might have to bring in a tent. See the many garden weddings we’ve featured here.

Sarah Tew Photography

Backyard
If you or someone in your family has a large and beautifully kept backyard then why not! You won’t have to pay a venue rental fee! Backyard weddings have the advantage of being a little more relaxed (fun lawn games!), and can have added meaning if it’s a special place to you. We’ve featured many backyard weddings here on Sweet Violet Bride.

Pepper Nix Photography

Barn / Farm
The barn wedding is becoming a rustic chic classic and for good reason. There’s no place for a party quite like a barn lit with pretty lights, and the stars in the sky above. Whether you opt for a classic New England barn site or a one with rugged western charm your wedding is sure to be at least one thing: fun. Most consider barns for their reception venue, though this couple actually got married in one! More and more barns across the country are now available to rent out for weddings and events, for example you can find a variety of barns and ranches in Rancho Cucamonga. You can check out several barn weddings we’ve featured here.

Ember Photography

Vineyard
There is something so romantic about vineyards. Plus, if you love wine there’s really no better place to cheers to your new life together. You might even be able to get wine specially bottled with custom labels for you and your guests. Most vineyards have a natural style but are more elegant instead of whimsical if you know what I mean. You could add to this category any type of orchard also. See our featured vineyard weddings here.

Evan Chung Photography

Lakeside
Often times a venue will combine more than one of these categories, like this lakeside forest wedding. But lakesides, whether they’re near a forest or not are a tranquil place with a watery view that may be less crowded than a beach on the ocean (unless of course you have access to a private beach). Also, you don’t have to live near coastline to find this type of venue and you can enter or exit your ceremony by canoe or kayak, which is just plain cool!

Ampersand Wedding Photography

Forest / Woodland
Perhaps one of my favorites in theory, though this type of venue can be harder to orchestrate than others due to the fact that there may not be any structures nearby. Typically a woodland ceremony takes place at the edge of the woods or just inside the forest where there is a reception venue (lodge, house, or pavilion) within walking distance or a short drive away, though you can also set up tables among the trees! There is no doubt that a woodland wedding is undeniably enchanting. When done right you and your guests should feel transported to a magical world of woodland whimsy. See some of the woodland weddings we’ve featured here.

Brilliant Imagery

Mountain / Wilderness Lodge
If you and your partner have a spectacular sense of adventure and spending time in the outdoors is something core to your relationship then a mountain wedding is right up your alley, er trail. Ski resorts or wilderness lodges often have the space to comfortably host a wedding and the proximity to mountain views. You don’t need to bring much ceremony decor into a location like this. See the many different mountain weddings we’ve featured here.

Modern Romance Productions

I hope you enjoyed this post and got some ideas for where to have your outdoor wedding. If you’ve been married in the outdoors let us know where you tied the knot in the comments below!

The Story: The woodland faerie and the mortal man met while he lost his way in the forest. She took him in and helped guide his way back but he refused. Instantly he knew he loved her and would never leave her. They built a house out of wood, twigs, and autumn leaves and shared deep magical secrets of hidden wonders.

Photography: Gaby J Photography / Dresses: Staysi Lee Bridal Boutique / Makeup: Celina Rodriguez / Hair: Rosa Dunn / Models: Christian Guidi / Location: Mount Charleston, NV

“The Land of Faery, Where nobody gets old and godly and grave, Where nobody gets old and crafty and wise, Where nobody gets old and bitter of tongue.” ― W.B. Yeats, The Land of Heart’s Desire

“Faeries, come take me out of this dull world, For I would ride with you upon the wind, Run on the top of the disheveled tide, And dance upon the mountains like a flame.” ― W.B. Yeats, The Land of Heart’s Desire

For more inspiration see this Steampunk Faerie Wedding, or this Woodland Faerie Styled Shoot.

1) Pinterest  2-3) Elfin Forest Editorial for Coco Magazine, photographed by Emily Soto  4) Elizabeth Olsen photographed for Bullett Magazine by Jeff Bark  5) Pinterest  6) Kip Meyer  7) Pinterest  8) Style Tantrum  9) Marina Danilova  10) BHLDN Fairy Song  Gown  11) Bloom Magazine  12-14) Pinterest  15) Colin Cowie Weddings  16) Pinterest  17) Alena Goretskaya 2013 Collection  18) created by hair stylist Niky Epifanio  19) Cedarwood Weddings  20) Fab You Bliss  21-22) Pinterest  23) Signe Vilstrup’s ‘Flower Girls’ for Elle Denmark

Photography: Michelle March Photography / Venue: Villa Woodbine / Planning, Styling, Decor: Unearthed Vintage / Dress: Sasha’s Bridal / Bridal Jewelry: Jacqueline Pinto / Hair Accessories: Lacielle Roselle / Floral: Julia Rohde Designs / Hair & Make-up: Hiara Fernandez / Cakes: Gigi-Mamma Cakes / Calligraphy: MM Ink / Videografie: Michael Burgos Films

1.      Prepare for weather

I was married in Vermont, where rapid barometric changes are the stuff of legend. Wherever the location, it’s useful to consider what curveballs the elements might throw your way. If you’re planning a destination wedding, the internet can give you a little weather background and timetables for tides, sunset, etc. Chance of rain? You’ll likely want to have shelter available. Keep a pretty umbrella handy, and perhaps a stylish pair of wellies. You’re likely to encounter wind wherever you get hitched, so be sure to secure table settings, décor, and of course – your hair, so nothing will blow away! Will it be cold? Have a jacket or wrap for yourself, and perhaps blankets or shawls and hot chocolate available for your guests. Will it be hot and sunny? Make sure your makeup is sweat-proof, and consider parasols, fans, sunglasses, or even sunscreen for yourself and your guests. Think about your menu and how weather could impact what you want to serve. (You may want to skip the ice cream cake if the temperature is going to be 90 degrees). Make sure you have good lighting in place so you’ll be able to see when the sun goes down.

2.      Have a back-up plan

We all swoon over photo shoots of seaside ceremonies and rustic tables set in flower-decked meadows, but the romance factor drops significantly if a storm has your guests running for shelter. Tents are most common for outdoor weddings, and there are endless options available, from classic canopy, frame, or century designs to giant yurts or even cool teepees. Not planning to rent a tent? If you’re in a public park or garden, check the vicinity for structures like picnic shelters. If you’ll be in the woods, look for a trailside hut (or build a really big fort!). Planning a small backyard affair? Keep the ceremony short and sweet, and be ready for the party to move indoors if inclement weather strikes.

3.      Keep guests in the loop

You have a beautiful venue picked out and you can’t wait for your friends and family to see it. Now make sure they know what to expect when they show up for the big celebration. Use your invitations and/or wedding website to provide as much information as possible, from forecasts to suggested footwear. Give guests accessibility and facilities information, and of course, directions and transportation tips (will they need to hop on a ski lift or hike into camp?). Even your most spontaneous, good-humored guest will appreciate being prepared.  

4.      Choose the right venue (and check permits)

Is there a spot you’ve always fantasized about getting married? Don’t rule out a venue just because it seems too quirky. Check with the appropriate municipality or organization to see if a wedding would be allowed on-site. Make sure you have proper permits for the location, and if you plan to serve alcohol, be sure you’re in compliance with applicable regulations (you don’t want your reception shut down because you didn’t have the right license!).  

5.      Consider ways to use ceremony items at the reception

This isn’t strictly necessary, but it could be a useful money-saving idea if your ceremony and reception are in the same vicinity. For instance, you can enlist friends to move chairs from one site to the other. This might sound like a recipe for chaos, but I’ve seen this done a couple times and it has always been a smooth transition. Floral arrangements and décor can be transferred in a similar way. One bride hung mason jars of flowers on hooks along the aisle so they could be moved quickly to serve as centerpieces. Depending on your budget and how many helpers you have available, similar ideas could be handy.

6.      Be ready for song and dance

Mother Nature doesn’t always provide the best acoustics, so you may want to consider a microphone and sound system if you’re worried the wind might drown out those beautiful vows you wrote or the ipod cranking out your first dance. What about a dance floor? Some tent companies provide portable units that can be installed on the ground, or perhaps you and your friends would rather dance barefoot on grass or sand.

7.      Pick and prep your vendors

While you’re on the hunt for the perfect florist, caterer, cake-maker, and other vendors, be sure to choose people who have experience with outdoor events and who are excited about making sure your bouquet remains intact and that your food stays hot (or cold). Check for positive reviews online, and look at portfolios before signing any contracts.

Pulling off an outdoor wedding comes with a few unique challenges, but with a little inspiration and some help from your friends, it’s sure to be a beautiful (and memorable) celebration. 

1) Christina Bernales Photography, DK Studio, Ariel Renae Photography  2) Carla Ten Eyck  3) Ryan Ray, Martha Stewart Weddings  4) Monsieur + Madame  5) Caroline + Ben  6) Rebecca Hollis, Katch Silva Photography  7) Chelsey Boatwright, Cat Mayer and Toast Events