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Meet Katelyn Stanis with Wedding Words
Katelyn Stanis is a Writer and runs a unique business writing vows and toasts for weddings. She captures a couple's heartfelt sentiment and puts them into words for them to recite on their special day. Katelyn is truly talented at what she does so I had to highlight her skill. Meet Katelyn Stanis.
Tell me a little bit about yourself.
My name is Katelyn Stanis and I’m the creator of Wedding Words—a wedding vow and toast writing service. I collaborate with engaged couples who need help putting their heart into words for their custom wedding vows.
Originally from Michigan, I now live in Jersey City. I’ve always adored writing and graduated from college with a Journalism degree. My writing has been published in Chicken Soup for the Soul books, Aisle Perfect, The Everygirl, and Bridal Musings.
How did you get started writing vows and toasts specifically for weddings?
I’ve always wanted to make a career out of writing but like many creative fields, it’s a challenge to make that happen. The idea to write custom wedding vows and toasts came to me in a sort of serendipitous way.
My grandfather unexpectedly passed away in the summer of 2017. I flew home to Michigan for the funeral and my dad had asked me to review the eulogy which he had spent over seven hours writing. The eulogy sounded like it could have been written about anyone’s grandfather. The details that made it specific to my grandpa were missing.
So I worked with my dad and went through the eulogy line-by-line. I asked him what sort of feelings he had wanted to express and what characteristics he wanted to show about grandpa. I then reworked sections. In the end, my dad was thrilled. It was exactly what he had wanted to express but didn’t know how to articulate.
The idea to work with other people to put their heart into words kind of snowballed from there.
How do you get to know your clients so well in order to write such beautiful words for them? What is the process like?
It starts with a video call where I interview each person. I ask a set of very specific questions that help to unearth their unique love story. The call is recorded and I use their words to create completely customized wedding vows.
I identify themes, highlight those points, and edit out anything that doesn’t serve the vows. Everything is completely custom. No templates. No questionnaires.
What inspires you?
People and their stories. Everyone has a unique story. Even if you feel like you’re just an average person with nothing special to share—you’re wrong! You have unique experiences and a one-of-a-kind perspective because of your experiences.
When I work with couples, I get to hear those personal anecdotes that make them and their love so special.
For someone who is currently working on writing their wedding vows or a toast, what are some easy tips you can provide?
Whether you are writing your wedding vows or a toast—begin by using writing prompts. Most couples I work with are stressed out at the idea of writing their own vows. It’s often because they have no idea where to begin or how to articulate their feelings.
When you use specific wedding vow writing prompts, you’ll effortlessly tap into your creative side. Plus, you’ll have material to work with for your vows once you complete the writing prompts.
I know last year you were thinking of delving into new territory by writing out the whole ceremony for those couples who opt to have a friend or relative officiate. Have you put anymore thought into that?
Yes, I do offer wedding ceremony design. I work with couples to create a completely customized and personalized ceremony. The goal is for the ceremony to mirror their personality and have guests leave saying, “Wow! That was so them.”
What are some of your interests and hobbies?
Writing, of course. I also love being active. I enjoy everything from taking a barre or dance class to doing yoga, and going on hikes or a run.
What is your favorite part of a wedding?
Of course I love the wedding vows and the entire wedding ceremony. I’m a huge fan of words and believe they carry strong meaning. To me, declaring how you feel in such a formal way is very special. Words whether through wedding vows or a toast honors the moment and properly marks the occasion.
After that though, spending hours on the dance floor is definitely my favorite part.
Thank you Katelyn for allowing me to feature you here.
To follow Katelyn or seek help with your vows, you can reach Katelyn via her contact below.
Katelyn Stanis
Wedding Words
Email: katelyn@weddingwords.us
Instagram: @katelynstanis
