Image by Anthea Auld Photographer via Johanna and James’ Tasmanian Winery Wedding
Many of my couples have a checklist when it comes to choosing readings for their marriage ceremony: they want something meaningful (but not necessarily formal or overly serious), something they haven’t heard before and some beautiful words they’ll remember always. Here are a few of my favourites…
SHORT & SWEET
Who says readings have to be long? A simple quote-style reading can be just as moving and meaningful. I have recently fallen in love with the brilliant, beautifully-written work of Melbourne-based Beau Taplin.
‘Growth’ – Beau Taplin
“Somebody who betters you.
Somebody who inspires you and encourages you in love and life, who pushes you towards dreams and goals you’d otherwise ignore, who selflessly sacrifices their time to help you become a more courageous, well rounded and happy human being.
That’s sacred. You hold on to a love like that.”
Image by Alison Mayfield via Fiona & Anthony’s Gorgeous Restaurant Wedding
‘The One Thing I Know For Sure’ – Beau Taplin
“The one thing I know for sure is that feelings are rarely mutual, so when they are, drop everything, forget belongings and expectations, forget the games, the two days between texts, the hard to gets, because this is it, this is what the entire world is after and you’ve stumbled upon it by chance, by accident – so take a deep breath, take a step forward, now run, collide like planets in the system of a dying sun, embrace each other with both arms and let all the rules, the opinions and common sense crash down around you.
Because this is love kid, and it’s all yours. Believe me, you’re in for one hell of a ride, after all – this is the one thing I know for sure.”
Image by Daniel Brannan via Georgie & Tom’s Greenery Filled Richmond Wedding
SWEET & SERIOUS, MINUS THE CLICHÉS
I love these words by Bob Marley simply because they’re refreshingly real.
By Bob Marley
“He’s not perfect. You aren’t either, and the two of you will never be perfect. But if he can make you laugh at least once, causes you to think twice, and if he admits to being human and making mistakes, hold onto him and give him the most you can.
He isn’t going to quote poetry, he’s not thinking about you every moment, but he will give you a part of him that he knows you could break.
Don’t hurt him, don’t change him, and don’t expect for more than he can give. Don’t analyse. Smile when he makes you happy, yell when he makes you mad, and miss him when he’s not there. Love hard when there is love to be had. Because perfect guys don’t exist, but there’s always one guy that is perfect for you.”
Image by Figtree Pictures via Whitney & Jed’s Garden Restaurant Wedding
SUPPORT FOR EQUALITY
If the push for equal marriage rights is important to you, consider this quote from a landmark case dealing with same-sex marriage in the United States.
From ‘Goodridge vs. Department of Health’ by Massachusetts Supreme Court Chief Justice Margaret H. Marshall
“Civil marriage is at once a deeply personal commitment to another human being and a highly public celebration of the ideals of mutuality, companionship, intimacy, fidelity, and family….
Because it fulfils yearnings for security, safe haven, and connection that express our common humanity, civil marriage is an esteemed institution, and the decision whether and whom to marry is among life’s momentous acts of self-definition.”
Image by Studio Impressions via Paul & Paul’s Stylish and Sincere Gay Wedding
A CHILDREN’S BOOK QUOTE
Some may argue this one is cheesy – not me! I would argue it’s very sweet.
From “Guess How Much I Love You” by Sam McBratney
“Then he looked beyond the thorn bushes, out into the big dark night. Nothing could be further than the sky.
“I love you right up to the moon,” he said, and closed his eyes.
“Oh, that’s far,” said Big Nutbrown Hare. “That is very far.”
Big Nutbrown Hare settled Little Nutbrown Hare into his bed of leaves. He leaned over and kissed him good night. Then he lay down close by and whispered with a smile, “I love you right up to the moon — and back.”
Image by Anthea and Lyndon via Sophie and Luke’s Relaxed South Coast Wedding
Ms Chinoiserie Says: Such a wonderful selection of favourites; Bob Marley’s words top my list!
About Melissa Polimeni Marriage Celebrant: I love weddings and I love what I do. As a celebrant, my job is getting to know couples and crafting memorable marriage ceremonies – and that’s always such a pleasure and privilege.
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