Love and Commitment
* "Sonnet 116" by William Shakespeare: A classic declaration of enduring love.
* "She Walks in Beauty" by Lord Byron: A poem celebrating beauty, both physical and inner.
* "Love is Not All" by Edna St. Vincent Millay: A poignant reflection on the complexities of love.
* "The Road Not Taken" by Robert Frost: A reminder that choosing a path together is a shared journey.
* "Wild Swans at Coole Park" by W.B. Yeats: A poignant poem about the passing of time and enduring love.
* "The Love Song of J. Alfred Prufrock" by T.S. Eliot: (Excerpted) A modern classic capturing the anxieties of love.
Hope and New Beginnings
* "Where the Sidewalk Ends" by Shel Silverstein: A whimsical and optimistic reminder to embrace the unknown.
* "The Journey" by Mary Oliver: A poem about the importance of embracing the journey of life.
* "Invictus" by William Ernest Henley: A powerful poem about resilience and determination.
* "The Tiger" by William Blake: A poem about the power of creation and the beauty of the unknown.
* "The Gift" by Hafiz: A poem about the importance of gratitude and acceptance.
Humorous and Lighthearted
* "Love is a Mix Tape" by Richard Adams: A fun and lighthearted poem about the joys of love.
* "The Wombat" by Judith Wright: A whimsical poem about the importance of finding your own path.
* "The Raven" by Edgar Allan Poe: (Excerpted) A lighthearted, humorous twist on the classic poem.
* "Love" by Roy Croft: A short and sweet poem about the simple joy of love.
Readings from Literature and Scripture
* The Vow from "The Notebook" by Nicholas Sparks: A classic declaration of love and commitment.
* "The Little Prince" by Antoine de Saint-Exupéry: (Excerpted) A whimsical and insightful story about love and friendship.
* The Song of Solomon (Chapter 2): A biblical passage about the beauty of love and desire.
* The Sermon on the Mount (Matthew 5-7): A powerful message about love, forgiveness, and compassion.
Tips for Choosing a Reading:
* Consider the Tone: Do you want a romantic, humorous, or spiritual reading?
* Personalize it: Choose a reading that resonates with your relationship and values.
* Keep it Short: Aim for a reading that is around 3-5 minutes long.
* Practice: Practice the reading beforehand so you are confident and comfortable.
Note: Be sure to check with your officiant for any specific guidelines or restrictions on readings.
Have fun finding the perfect words to celebrate your special day!