Readings and Poems for a Wedding Ceremony — Ideas to Inspire Your Day
When it comes to planning a wedding ceremony, one of the most common questions couples ask is: “Should we include a reading—and if so, which one?” The beauty is, there are no rules. A reading can set the tone, add a personal touch, and give guests a glimpse of your love story.
Whether you’re after something timeless, modern, light-hearted, or deeply romantic, there are plenty of beautiful options to choose from. Here are some ideas to help you find the words that feel right for your ceremony.
1. Romantic & Timeless Readings
Perfect for couples who love a touch of classic poetry and romance.
Sonnet 116 by William Shakespeare (“Let me not to the marriage of true minds…”)
How Do I Love Thee? by Elizabeth Barrett Browning
I Carry Your Heart With Me by E. E. Cummings
Union by Robert Fulghum
To Love Is Not to Possess by James Kavanaugh
2. Modern & Relatable Readings
Ideal if you want warmth without the formality.
The Bridge Across Forever by Richard Bach
The Velveteen Rabbit by Margery Williams (the part about becoming “real”)
Captain Corelli’s Mandolin by Louis de Bernières (“Love is a temporary madness…”)
The Amber Spyglass by Philip Pullman (“I will love you forever; whatever happens…”)
A Lovely Love Story by Edward Monkton (the whimsical dinosaur tale).
3. Fun & Light-Hearted Readings
For couples who want their ceremony to include some laughs.
He Never Leaves the Seat Up by Pam Ayres
Foxtrot From a Play by W. H. Auden
Yes, I’ll Marry You My Dear by Pam Ayres
Excerpt from Winnie the Pooh by A. A. Milne (“If you live to be a hundred…”)
“An Extract from The Notebook” by Nicholas Sparks (equal parts touching and fun).
4. Poems with Heart
Poems that cut straight to the soul.
Love’s Philosophy by Percy Bysshe Shelley
Sonnet XVII by Pablo Neruda
Somewhere I Have Never Travelled by E. E. Cummings
Touched by an Angel by Maya Angelou
The One by Cheryl Barclay
5. Cultural & Spiritual Readings
Beautiful if you want to honour heritage or add a sense of blessing.
Irish Blessing (“May the road rise to meet you…”)
Apache Wedding Blessing (adaptable for non-religious ceremonies too).
Extracts from Rumi (timeless poetry on love and union).
Traditional Jewish Seven Blessings (Sheva Brachot).
Maori or Aboriginal blessings (with cultural respect and permission).
6. Quotes & Short Readings
Sometimes, a simple quote says more than pages of poetry.
“You are my today and all of my tomorrows.” — Leo Christopher
“In all the world, there is no heart for me like yours.” — Maya Angelou
“Whatever our souls are made of, his and mine are the same.” — Emily Brontë
“A successful marriage requires falling in love many times, always with the same person.” — Mignon McLaughlin
Lyrics from a favourite song (Paul Kelly, The Beatles, Adele—no judgment).
Tips for Choosing the Right Reading
Match your personalities — If you’re playful, go for humour. If you’re sentimental, a poem or novel extract might be perfect.
Think of your guests — What do you want them to feel during your ceremony?
Keep it balanced — One or two readings are usually enough; too many can feel like storytime.
Ask someone special to read — Involving a family member or friend adds extra meaning.
As a wedding celebrant, I often help couples choose readings that flow with their vows and stories. The right words can make the ceremony truly unforgettable.
Want More Than Just Ceremony Tips?
If you’ve made it this far, chances are you’re planning a wedding (or you just really enjoy reading about them—no judgement). Either way, my wedding celebrant services might be what you’re looking for. From writing vows that sound like you to making sure the ceremony runs smoother than your uncle-in-law’s dance moves, I’ve got you covered.