Photo Credit: Ian Grant Photography

Your wedding vows are the most sacred and meaningful words you’ll ever speak. Some couples opt to use traditional vows, capped off with that memorable "I do," while others prefer to be wed in their own words. My fiancé Corey and I have decided to include both versions at our nuptials. Although we won't be sharing our personal vows with anyone until the day of our wedding (we don't want to give away the surprise!), here are some ways we're making them meaningful to us.

Plus, check out 30+ examples of wedding vows.

1. DO make it personal. The reason why many couples choose to write their own vows is because they want to convey their love for one another in a unique way that is specific to their relationship as a couple. Describe why you care about your partner and how much you value the fact that they've chosen to spend the rest of their life with you.

2. DON'T make it too personal. Remember, you have an audience… and that might include Grandma and Grandpa! Reference personal aspects of your relationship, but avoid mentioning how sexy you think your future husband/wife is or anything else that can be misconstrued as borderline inappropriate. It's probably best to tell them these things in private.