Wedding Crusher

The death of "till death do us part"

July 28, 2005—Does marriage really have to mean "till death do us part"? It's a question more and more grooms (and brides) are asking. "People don't want to mention death," says Sharon Naylor, author of Your Special Wedding Vows. "There's a lot of superstition that goes on in weddings." (That, and some guys just need to keep their options open.) The upshot of all this? An increased use of substitute vows. Here are some examples of "death"-free commitments Naylor has encountered at recent ceremonies. Use at will.

"For as long as our marriage shall serve the greater good"

"For as long as our love shall last"

"Until our time together is over"

"For as long as the tides dance under the moon"

"For as long as you're willing to put up with me"