"Struggling to Say 'I Do': 4 Lessons Learned from Senior Brides' Missteps in Vow Responses"

"Yes, I do" — This one word is so hard to say well...

When it comes to the most important scenes in a wedding, the "vows" during the ceremony stands out. A wedding is a place for the bride and groom to make their vows. It’s not an exaggeration to say it’s the highlight scene!

In a Christian ceremony, the pastor or priest asks the couple:

“Groom (Bride), you are about to marry Bride (Groom) and take (her/him) as your wife (husband).

Do you promise to love, honor, and comfort (her/him), in sickness and in health, in joy and in sorrow, in riches and in poverty, for as long as you both shall live?”

Following this, they say "Yes, I do." Although it’s just a single word, it carries a lot of weight. Many brides have felt so nervous that they couldn't say it properly.

Of course, even if they didn’t say it well, it doesn’t mean they didn’t make a vow. It’s just part of the memories. However, since it’s a lifelong memory, brides want to make their vows properly.

So this time, we will introduce the “vow-gone-wrong stories” from senior brides. Let’s learn from their experiences to say the vow beautifully! ♡

"Yes, I do" — Senior brides' failed stories ① The voice was too quiet

The most common mistake when responding to the vows is having a quiet voice. In the quiet chapel, saying "Yes, I do" out loud can be nerve-wracking, especially for brides who are not accustomed to speaking in front of many people.

As a result, they tend to say "Yes, I do" too softly... and guests might not hear it at all, leading to confusion: "Did she just vow? Or not??"

There are also cases where the vows were not captured on video. Although it was a lifelong promise, it can feel a bit sad when it seems to have not happened.

Therefore, it’s important to say the vow loudly. Even in a quiet space, if the bride’s voice is too soft, those in the back won’t hear it. Additionally, since the bride and groom face forward while guests are behind them, their voices are further diminished!

When making the vows, speak louder and more clearly than usual.

"Yes, I do" — Senior brides' failed stories ② Stuttered

Next, we have the story of a bride who stuttered on "Yes, I do!" This is also a common incident related to the vows (especially it seems to happen more with grooms!).

Nervousness can lead to stumbling, but it’s crucial to say that important word without tripping over it. To help avoid that, rehearse several times before the ceremony starts!

It’s also essential to remind him to "Say it clearly!" Especially for men, if they aren't familiar with the flow of the ceremony, they might get confused and think, "Wait, do I say it now??" once the pastor starts the vows. This could lead to them hastily saying "Yes, I do" and stumbling over their words.

So, make sure to explain the flow of the ceremony to him in advance to help him prepare mentally.

"Yes, I do" — Senior brides' failed stories ③ An awkward pause occurred

Next, we’ll talk about a bride who encountered an awkward pause. She was so moved by the vow that she took a moment to absorb every word, creating a slight delay before responding with "Yes, I do."

After the pastor asked if she would promise, she remained silent for a few seconds, causing some worry for the groom and guests. Eventually, she hurriedly said "Yes, I do," which resulted in a gentle chuckle from the attendees.

It’s a heartwarming story, but for the bride, it may have left a sense of regret… While reflecting deeply on the vow is important, it’s also essential to respond promptly without causing concern for the groom or guests!

"Yes, I do" — Senior brides' failed stories ④ Jumped the gun

The next story is about someone who jumped the gun. This occurs when the bride says "Yes, I do!" before the pastor finishes the line, “... until death do us part.”

This might not be common, but if you get lost in thought, it could happen that you respond before the pastor finishes! Guests might laugh, so it’s essential to listen carefully to avoid jumping the gun. ♡

➡ Watch a video of someone jumping the gun here*

"Yes, I do." Let's say this life-binding word properly

We've shared the vow response mishaps from senior brides. It seems everyone has made various mistakes!

“Yes, I do.” Just seven characters, but it brings a lot of tension and can be difficult to say nicely.

However, with proper visualization and carefulness, you can definitely succeed! ♡ Make sure to declare your love and commitment with him and start your married life together! ♩