Many people are a little confused as to what is allowed in respect of readings during Wedding Ceremonies. The choice of reading a passage or a piece of  poetry is up to you! Some Ministers require readings taken from the Bible, but some are happy to give you complete freedom.

Readings are often a reflection of you and your love – however they are optional and play no legal part of the ceremony. They add further meaning to the vows you are taking and are a great way of involving family and friends in the wedding ceremony.

Readings are particularly important with Civil ceremonies, as you are often able to theme your ceremony around your love for each other. Family and friends can choose what to read for you or they may prefer to write something specifically for you. Alternately you can prescribe it for them. Don’t worry if you want more than one reading, I have been to civil ceremonies where there have been four readings. They were all themed around Love and fitted in beautifully!

Children also make good readers! This can be very handy for second Marriages, where the children are brought into the ceremony and feel totally included in the Marriage.

Where do you find them? Obvious place to start is The Bible for a traditional reading.

The New Testament:

  • Matthew 5: verses  1-10
  • Corinthians 13 :verses  4-13
  • Ephesians  5: verses 21-33

The Old Testament:

  • Genesis 1: verses 26-28
  • Ecclesiastes 3: verses 1-8
  • Proverbs 31: verses 25-31

There are also the Psalms that are a great source of reference.

Non religious-based readings come from far and wide; libraries, poetry books, magazines and periodicals are all worth looking through. Some of the best pieces I have found are in good card shops! Cards have beautiful words written inside – Spend some time looking and I am sure you won’t be disappointed. You don’t even have to re-write it as the front of the card is usually fine to be held up during the reading – Job Done!