Every wedding has those magical moments that leave a lasting impression, and ceremony readings are one of them. The right passage can celebrate your journey, bring your guests to tears, or make them smile with joy.
Ready to be inspired? Here’s what you need to choose the right reading for your special day.
WHY INCLUDE A READING?
Wedding readings serve multiple purposes in your ceremony. For one thing, they create natural pauses that help the ceremony flow, which gives your guests time to absorb the significance of the moment.
More importantly, readings allow you to share your values, hopes, and dreams through carefully chosen words that speak to your journey together.
A well-chosen reading can:
· Express sentiments that might feel too intimate to say in your own words.
· Honor important family members or friends by inviting them to participate.
· Share your favorite literature or poetry with your guests.
· Bridge different religious or cultural traditions.
FINDING YOUR PERFECT READING
The key to selecting the right reading is looking for something that authentically represents your relationship. Here are some sources to peruse.
Religious Texts
If faith is important to you, religious readings can add spiritual depth to your wedding ceremony. Beyond the commonly used Corinthians 13 ("Love is patient, love is kind..."), explore lesser-known passages that speak to your beliefs about marriage.
Literature
Literature offers countless beautiful perspectives on love. Look through your favorite books, especially ones you've shared together, for inspiration. Jane Austen, Pablo Neruda, and e.e. cummings are perennial favorites, but don't be afraid to think outside the box.
Poetry
Modern poets like Rupi Kaur, Lang Leav, and Ocean Vuong offer fresh takes on love and commitment. Classic poets like William Butler Yeats and Elizabeth Barrett Browning remain powerful choices. Look for poems that capture your relationship's unique dynamic.
Popular Culture
Don't discount meaningful lyrics, movie quotes, or even children's books. If a particular song or story has special meaning in your relationship, it might make the perfect reading. Just ask yourself if the text you’re considering would maintain the ceremony's dignity while still reflecting your personality.
TIPS FOR DELIVERING THE READING
Once you’ve selected the perfect reading, a few thoughtful preparations can help make it a meaningful part of your wedding ceremony.
For couples, the key is selecting readers who are comfortable speaking in public and giving them plenty of time to prepare. Make sure to share the chosen text at least a month in advance so they can practice. Opt for a reading that is about two to three minutes long—long enough to resonate but not so lengthy that it slows the ceremony’s flow.
It’s also a good idea to have a backup copy of the reading on hand, just in case, and consider where it fits best in your ceremony’s structure to create a natural progression.
For readers, preparation is everything. Practicing the reading aloud several times will help you find natural pauses and points of emphasis.
When you deliver the reading, speak slowly and clearly so every word is understood, and take a moment to connect with both the couple and the guests through eye contact.
Holding the text in a folder or elegant binder can also help you look polished and professional.
If the ceremony requires a microphone, arrive early to test it and get comfortable with the setup.
Finally, remember to breathe and pace yourself—this is your moment to honor the couple, so take your time to make it special.
FINAL THOUGHTS
Your wedding readings should feel as unique as your relationship. Take time to explore different options together, and don't feel pressured to choose traditional readings if they don't resonate with you. The most memorable readings are those that make guests think, "That's so them!"
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