Readings can add a personal, heartfelt touch to your ceremony. They’re also a wonderful way to involve family and friends in your special day. If you’re unsure how to incorporate them, here are a few ideas:

• Have More Than One Reader – If a poem has two verses, consider having two different people read each part. This keeps it engaging and gives more loved ones a chance to participate.
• Mix It Up – You don’t have to stick to traditional readings. Consider song lyrics, excerpts from books, or even something personal you’ve written.
• Choose Something That Speaks to You – Whether it’s romantic, lighthearted, or deeply meaningful, pick something that truly resonates with you as a couple.

Popular Readings for Wedding Ceremonies

Below, I’ve listed some of the most popular and well-loved readings to inspire you. I hope you find something that feels just right for your special day.A well-chosen reading or poem can add depth, meaning, and emotion to a wedding ceremony. Below is a selection of romantic, heartfelt, and unique readings and poems that couples can incorporate into their special day.

Classic & Romantic Readings

1. “Union” by Robert Fulghum
   A simple yet profound reflection on the meaning of marriage and partnership.
2. “Sonnet 116” by William Shakespeare
   “Let me not to the marriage of true minds / Admit impediments…” A timeless ode to enduring love.
3. “I Carry Your Heart With Me” by E.E. Cummings
   A beautifully intimate expression of deep, abiding love.
4. “Blessing of the Hands” (Anonymous)
   A heartfelt reading about the journey of love and support through marriage.
5. “The Art of Marriage” by Wilferd Arlan Peterson
   A guide to a lifelong, loving partnership.

Modern & Non-Traditional Readings

6. “The One” by Rupi Kaur
   A contemporary and heartfelt poem about finding your person.
7. “Captain Corelli’s Mandolin” by Louis de Bernières
   A passage about love growing deep, becoming part of who you are.
8. “Love Is Friendship Caught Fire” by Laura Hendricks
   A beautiful description of love evolving from deep friendship.
9. “A Lovely Love Story” by Edward Monkton
   A charming and quirky reading, perfect for lighthearted couples.
10. “Excerpt from The Amber Spyglass” by Philip Pullman
    A profound and emotional declaration of love.

Irish & Celtic Readings

11. “Irish Blessing” (Traditional)
    “May the road rise up to meet you…” A classic, meaningful blessing for a wedding day.
12. “Scaffolding” by Seamus Heaney
    A metaphorical look at love as a strong, well-built structure.
13. “Beannacht” by John O’Donohue
    A beautiful Celtic blessing for love and partnership.
14. “The Apache Wedding Blessing”
    (While not originally Irish, this blessing resonates with many couples.)

Short & Sweet Quotes

15. “When You Are Old” by W.B. Yeats
    A touching poem about love that lasts a lifetime.
16. “Touched by an Angel” by Maya Angelou
    A reflection on the power of love to transform us.
17. “This Day I Married My Best Friend” (Anonymous)
    A short, sentimental reading perfect for best friends turned soulmates.
18. “Love Sonnet XVII” by Pablo Neruda
    A deeply passionate and moving expression of love.
19. “How Falling in Love is Like Owning a Dog” by Taylor Mali
    A humorous and heartfelt comparison between love and dog ownership.

For a Spiritual or Religious Ceremony

20. “1 Corinthians 13:4-8” (Bible)
    “Love is patient, love is kind…” A well-known and deeply meaningful passage.
21. “Song of Solomon 2:10-13” (Bible)
    A poetic and romantic scripture about love’s beauty.
22. “Khalil Gibran on Marriage” (from The Prophet)
    A philosophical take on the balance of unity and individuality in love.
23. “Ruth 1:16-17” (Bible)
    A declaration of unwavering commitment and love.
24. “Buddhist Wedding Prayer”
    A serene and meaningful blessing for a lifetime of love.

If you need help choosing the perfect reading, I’d be delighted to guide you. Your ceremony should feel like ‘you’—let’s create something truly meaningful together.