Creating a wedding that is unique and that captures your style is easy when you add a reading or two to the ceremony. But, you ask, how can I come up with something that isn’t too—unoriginal? Here are some ideas for finding readings that you will find meaningful and fun. In general you want to shoot for a reading that is about 10-20 lines in length—just long enough to have some significance, but not so long that you loose the audience’s attention.
Idea #1. Look at children’s books. What did you love to read as a kid? Maybe it was a book that you made your mom or dad read to you over and over again. Go find it and read it right now. Look for a paragraph that evoke lots of emotion and try it out as a reading. Even if you can’t remember what you loved as a child, there are so many wonderful children’s books out there so get to a library or bookstore and browse!
Idea #2. Read lyrics to your favorite songs. Are you a big Springsteen fan, or maybe Adele is more your style. Try reading their lyrics to see if something speaks to you. Using songs as poetry or prose can be a fun alternative to the usual wedding fare. Have fun choosing a reading that expresses the sentiment you want for your wedding.
Idea #3. Consider classic love poetry. Rumi, Shakespeare, e.e. cummings, Byron…the list goes on forever. I am a poetry lover so I have many poems that I love to read about—love. But even if you aren’t very familiar with poetry, there are many wonderful books that contain large collections of love poems. They are often divided into themes, like poems about declarations or celebrations or first love. Read a bunch until you are weepy with ideas for your ceremony.
Idea #4. Ask your celebrant for suggestions. As your celebrant gets to know you, she or he will probably suggest a few readings that are fitting to your style. Celebrants have many resources for interesting and different readings, so use their expertise to help you find the perfect reading for your wedding ceremony.
I am sure that you will find something that truly speaks to you whether deep and soulful or something that might make your guests laugh out loud! Play a little with what is expected in a wedding and you will come up with some wonderful choices for your readings.
XOXO Rachel
Wondrance 