Are the immortal words, ‘I DO!' simply not enough for you? If you want to tell your other half and the world how much they mean to but can't find the words to express it, then we've got some helpful pointers on how to get started.

LEGALLY WHAT YOU NEED TO SAY

Before you break out in a line from a romcom, you need to make sure you dot the ‘i's and cross the t's' legally.

If you live in Scotland, then you've got the liberty to pretty much say what you like, as there is no legally prescribed form of words to be used in marriage vows. The marriage ceremony can be conducted in English or in any other language, so long as all parties can understand. If you want some help with the vows, then the registrar will be happy to provide you with examples.

STATUTORY WEDDING VOWS

But if you live south of the Scottish border, then carte blanche is off the menu. Instead your vows consist of two parts, firstly you are required to say the statutory words in order for the marriage to be legal and secondly you can add your own vows.

The statutory vows are made up of Declaratory and Contracting words, which can be said in a traditional or non-traditional way. To give you an idea, we got some examples of both:

Traditional

• Declaratory Words
  
  

I do solemnly declare that I know not of any lawful impediment why I, (your full name), may not be joined in matrimony to (your partner's full name).

• Contracting Words
  
  

I call upon these persons here present to witness that I, (your full name), do take thee, (your partner's full name), to be my lawful wedded wife (or husband).

Non-Traditional

• Declaratory Words
  
  

I declare that I know of no legal reason why I (your full name) may not be joined in marriage to (your partners full name) or by replying "I am" to the question, Are you (your full name) free lawfully to marry (your partners full name)?

• Contracting words
  
  

I (your full name) take you (your partners full name) to be my wedded husband/wife and reply, I (your full name) take thee (your partners full name) to be my wedded husband/wife"

YOUR OWN WORDS

You can add your own touch to the proceedings; just ensure that you speak to the Registrar to get the all clear, as some do not believe in deviating from the textbook.

Once you know where you stand with the Registrar, its time to get scribbling...but before you give yourself a migraine trying to compose a sonnet to rival Shakespeare, follow some simple guidelines:

• Get your inspirational juices flowing by thinking of your special moments together. Memories of the moment you realised you wanted to spend the rest of your life with your partner. Or rewind to the moment you met, was it love at first sight?
• K.I.S.S! Remember the saying, ‘keep it simple stupid!' Sometimes, the basic phrases and words make more of an impact than extricated linguistics...
• Think about the qualities you love the most about your partner, their nature, their heart, their smile? 
• What does the idea of marriage mean to you? 
• Where do you see your marriage in the future - do you wish to be that old couple still in love?
• What do you promise to do for your other half? Whether its make their favourite food, protect them or be honest, nothing is too trivial or grand to include.
• If there is a special song, poem or film that you both adore, think of lines from it. But don't quote it by verbatim, unless its something you say to each other! Remember you don't want to embarrass your partner or yourself.
  

When you've jotted these ideas down, try and connect the dots. Read through it, read it aloud and practice it again, and again. If it feels real and flows freely, you're on to a winner. If it doesn't sound right to you, then take a break and go back to it another time.

If you think you need a little extra help, then there are lots of guides and books on the market to hold your hand through the process. We recommend a great little book by Confetti about readings and vows, available at www.confetti.co.uk.