If you’re wondering whether private vows before the ceremony are worth doing, I honestly think they can become one of the most meaningful parts of the day.

A lot of couples ask me whether they should do private vows before the ceremony, especially if they’re already planning a first look or feel nervous about being emotional in front of guests.

Honestly, after photographing weddings as a Brisbane wedding photographer, I think private vows can completely change the feeling of the day in the best way.

Wedding days naturally move very quickly. Once the ceremony starts, everything tends to blur into one big moment. Private vows create a small pocket of time where the two of you can slow down and actually be present together before everything officially begins.

I’ve also noticed that couples who feel anxious about public speaking often feel much more relaxed reading their personal vows privately first. There’s less pressure, less performance, and more space to just focus on each other instead of everyone watching.

At a recent Brisbane wedding I photographed, the couple shared private vows after their first look before guests arrived. It ended up becoming one of the calmest and most emotional parts of the entire day. They were able to laugh, cry, settle their nerves, and genuinely take each other in before the ceremony even started.

Of course, private vows aren’t for everyone. Some couples love the emotion of sharing everything during the ceremony itself. But if you’re someone who values intimacy, connection, or simply wants a moment together before the day unfolds, private vows can be such a meaningful addition to your wedding day.

As a Brisbane wedding photographer, these are honestly some of my favourite moments to capture — not because they’re overly styled or perfect, but because they feel incredibly real.