Unless you’ve been living in a cave – I’m guessing you’ve heard about AI or specifically ChatGPT, the AI program that generates dialogue. You type in a prompt, essay title or question, and it spits out heaps of copy, at an unfathomable speed - until you press the STOP GENERATING button. 

I typed “Write short non-traditional wedding vows” into ChatGPT...and this is one example of what came out...

-My love, I promise to be your partner in adventure, your accomplice in mischief, and your shelter in the storm. Together, we'll dance through life, hand in hand, embracing the unknown with courage and curiosity. I vow to celebrate your quirks, support your dreams, and cherish the magic that unfolds in our shared journey -

You’re more than welcome to use any of the above if it floats your boat – I know for a fact I’ve married my accomplice in mischief. BUT where is the romance and personal touch? £50 says you’d end up telling most of your guests you used a bot to generate your vows after a few glasses of fizz! 

Technology continues to advance and is used for SO much now. The incorporation of artificial intelligence into the more everyday aspects of our lives is becoming the norm. AI can write a note perfect Risk Assessment or a landlord’s contract – I wish it was around during my GCSE’s! Yes, it’s convenient and timesaving, but is using it for such a deeply personal and emotional moment like exchanging vows on your wedding day a good idea?? These 3 key areas are why I think relying on AI for such a significant expression of love and commitment might not be the best choice. (Unless, like my friend at the weekend, it was 2 hours before her wedding, and she still hadn’t written her vows...)

LACK OF EMOTIONAL CONNECTION

Technology enhances our lives in countless amazing ways – advancing medical research, zooming around the stratosphere...and OBVIOUSLY air fryers. But don’t forget it’s limitations. Wedding vows are an expression of profound love, commitment, and intimacy, and they deserve the personal touch that only you can provide.

PERSONALISATION AND UNIQUENESS

Wedding vows are an opportunity to celebrate the uniqueness of your relationship. They tell your love story YOUR way. AI strips away that chance to think about your own love story by replacing it with clever, beautiful things generated at the speed of sound, that make you feel like you’ve found a great shortcut! But they’re not unique and they’re not you...I’m pretty sure the person standing opposite you at the end of the aisle will be able to tell!

AUTHENTICITY AND SINCERITY

Be your authentic self - says every Instagram guru/celebrity/t-shirt/fridge magnet ALL THE TIME. But also...be your authentic self, right? Embracing the art of authenticity and crafting your own vows means you’re connecting with your partner and your guests. Be brave and go for it – between yourselves and everyone in the room with you, I’m pretty sure there are no secrets! 

TOP TIPS

Let’s be honest – have you ever known anyone say they looked forward to writing their vows? There are SO many reasons that could be stopping you from starting! Dreading public speaking, not giving yourself enough time – all with the little voice in the back of your head “Don’t cry – don’t cry – don’t cry!!!”.

- TIME: Give yourself enough time – put the post it notes DOWN. Take your time - maybe put it in your diary to sit down and actually do it. Maybe with some wine!!

- REFLECT: Remember the things you’ve said to each other over the years, the stuff that really meant a lot or something emotional that surprised you. Even old holiday photos!

- TONE: Are you funny? Is the wedding ceremony formal? Decide between length and tone before you get started. Make it a mixture of your personalities and vibe. After all, whilst you will be in a room FULL of people (no pressure) you really do only have an audience of one!

LET’S KEEP IT REAL

Let’s stay true to our love stories by keeping the bots FAR away from our wedding vows and celebrate the beauty of human connection. Who said romance was dead?