How to Pick a Reading or Quote for your Ceremony

Readings/quotes are not necessary. Honestly, you can skip it entirely, which can be better than using a generic one as filler that doesn’t add to the moment. However, they do add to your ceremony so it's not too short and a reading/quote at the end of your ceremony, right before you kiss, makes for a relaxed moment and great photo opportunity.

So how to pick one? A personal ceremony does not have a cookie-cutter wedding reading. It should be something that has had meaning in your relationship or speaks to the relationship you hope to build as a married couple.

Before you head to Google, determine what style of reading/quote you want. Do you want something funny, whimsical, romantic, biblical, etc. Keeping in mind that it can be anything – movie lines (Peter Pan/When Harry Met Sally/Love Actually/ The Notebook), song lyrics (Bob Marley’s: He’s not Perfect), poetry quotes (Oriah Mountain Dreamer/Rumi), children’s books (Dr. Seuss /Everything I know I learned in Kindergarten/ Winnie the Pooh).

Or you can request an inspiration quote. Example: Frida Kahlo – On Marriage

I think at worst it's a hostile political act, a way for small-minded men to keep women in the house and out of the way, wrapped up in the guise of tradition and conservative religious nonsense. At best, it's a happy delusion - these two people who truly love each other and have no idea how truly miserable they're about to make each other. But, but, when two people know that, and they decide with eyes wide open to face each other and get married anyway, then I don't think it's conservative or delusional. I think it's radical and courageous and very romantic.

Remember, the purpose of a reading or quote is simply as a moment to hold hands, look into each other’s eyes, and take in the moment before you are declared MARRIED. But beyond all else, it should reflect your personality!

Photo Credit: Liat Aharoni Photography