When I ask this on my discovery calls, for some, the idea sparks excitement but all too often I can almost see some couples inwardly cringe 😬
I may get a polite “Oh no thanks, that’s not for us” and a look that says “let’s move on to the next bit”, but it’s my job to always give my couples an overview of all of their options, the opportunity to make their ceremony the very best it can be and offer the benefit of my experience; so I will always try to explain that a reading doesn’t have to be a “cheese-fest”, it can shine a whole different light onto the occasion.
Done well, the right reading can add depth, personality and humour to your ceremony forging an unforgettable memory into your day.
✨ A reading adds breathing space ….
Your ceremony is a big emotional moment. A carefully chosen reading provides a natural pause; a chance for you both to catch your breath, “have a minute” to soak in and really feel the atmosphere.
✨ It should reflect “You” ….
The key to avoiding it all being a bit “awks ” is to choose something that actually resonates with you. This doesn’t have to be deep and Shakespearean or a stuffy poem. It could be a few lines from a song you both love, a children’s book that makes you smile or even a witty quote off the telly that captures your sense of humour. If it feels authentic, it will never feel forced.
✨ Involve your guests ….
A reading is a great way to include friends or family in your day without giving them the pressure of a “job”.
Asking a loved one to read something that is meaningful to you gives them a moment to be included without the stress. In fact, the best reading I’ve heard was a verse the groom’s sister had written herself; it was deeply personal to the B&G, moving, dead funny and heartfelt – just perfect👌🏻
✨ It doesn’t have to be long ….
Sometimes the fear of the “Oh here we go” (🙄) comes from imagining an endless recital, but the best readings are often short, punchy and perfectly timed. A few heartfelt lines can land far more impact than a ten minute monologue.
✨ It’ll make a great a talking point ….
Guests will remember the little things that made your ceremony stand out. Your love story that we tell will of course be the “big hitter” but a unique reading; especially one that reflects your personalities will have them smiling, nodding, maybe even reaching for the tissues. It’s a shared moment of connection that lingers well beyond the day.
So a reading or poem doesn’t have to be naff. It’s about finding words that say what you feel when your own words might fall short. Whether it’s funny, heartfelt, romantic or unexpected, the right reading can turn A ceremony into YOUR ceremony.
So, if you’re tempted but worried about the cringe factor – don’t be. Choose something genuine and unapologetically you and I promise, it will only add to the magic ✨
We are “The Ceremony Celebrant”
Wedding celebrants based on Spain’s beautiful northern Costa Blanca, creating relaxed, heartfelt wedding ceremonies, vow renewals and elopement ceremonies across Gandia, Oliva, Denia, Javea, Moraira, Calpe, Altea, L’ Alfàs del Pi, Albir, Villajoyosa, El Campello, Alicante and the stunning inland Jalon Valley and mountain villages.
Our ceremonies are personal, fun and authentically you full of warmth, laughter and real connection (because we do laid back and real, not formal and stuffy)
