Thinking of writing your own wedding vows? Take some cues from some of history’s greatest literary heroes and most-adored artists and actors. These letters made hearts stop and are some of the most powerful sentiments ever written. They describe love that’s turbulent, stolen, all-encompassing and pure. Read on for inspiration, then, find the nearest pen and get writing.

Napoleon Bonaparte to Josephine du Beauharnais

“Since I left you, I have been constantly depressed. My happiness is to be near you. Incessantly I live over in my memory your caresses, your tears, your affectionate solicitude. The charms of the incomparable Josephine kindle continually a burning and a glowing flame in my heart…. I thought that I loved you months ago, but since my separation from you I feel that I love you a thousand fold more. Each day since I knew you, have I adored you more and more.”

Via pbs.org

Beethoven to his “Immortal Beloved”

“Though still in bed, my thoughts go out to you, my Immortal Beloved, Be calm — love me — today — yesterday — what tearful longings for you — you — you — my life — my all — farewell. Oh continue to love me — never misjudge the most faithful heart of your beloved. Ever thine. Ever mine. Ever ours.”

Via Beethoven / Pan MacMillan / beaglestreet.com

Johnny Cash to June Carter Cash

“We get old and get used to each other. We think alike. We read each other’s minds. We know what the other one wants without asking. Sometimes we irritate each other a little bit. Maybe sometimes take each other for granted.

But once in a while, like today, I meditate on it and realize how lucky I am to share my life with the greatest woman I ever met. You still fascinate and inspire me. You influence me for the better. You’re the object of my desire, the #1 earthly reason for my existence. I love you very much.”

Via Johnny Cash: House of Cash beaglestreet.com

Richard Burton to Elizabeth Taylor

“My blind eyes are desperately waiting for the sight of you. You don’t realize of course, E.B., how fascinatingly beautiful you have always been, and how strangely you have acquired an added and special and dangerous loveliness.”

Via dailymail.com

Now it’s your turn! Let these romantic letters inspire you for your wedding vows. Here, The Knot breaks it down for us in a few steps. For more helpful tips, visit theknot.com!

Step 1. Read dozens of vow examples for inspiration (check!).

Step 2. Agree on format and tone with your fiance.

Step 3. Jot down notes about your relationship.

Step 4. Come up with one or two, or many, promises.

Step 5. Write it all out.

Step 6. Banish clichés.

Step 7. Take out anything too cryptic or embarrassing.

Step 8. Shorten your vows to one to two minutes, max.

Step 9. Practice out loud (seriously!).

Step 10. Make a clean copy for yourself.