Nonreligious Wedding Reading Ideas: Celebrate Love Your Way

Weddings are a celebration of love and individuality, and many couples today are opting for nonreligious ceremonies that reflect their personal beliefs and values.

Choosing the perfect reading for your wedding can add a meaningful touch to your vows and set the tone for your special day.

In this post, we’ll explore a variety of nonreligious wedding reading ideas to inspire you, whether you’re looking for something romantic, humorous, or poetic.

Nonreligious Wedding Readings

Nonreligious wedding readings are texts or excerpts that don’t reference specific religious beliefs but instead celebrate love, commitment, and shared values. They are an excellent option for couples who want their ceremony to be inclusive and personal. Whether you’re planning a secular wedding or simply prefer a modern and unique approach, these readings can beautifully highlight the essence of your relationship.

Romantic Wedding Readings

For couples who want to emphasize the depth of their love and devotion, romantic readings are a timeless choice. These pieces celebrate the beauty of a committed partnership and the bond between two people.

“Union” by Robert Fulghum
This touching piece describes marriage as a union of lives, hearts, and dreams. Fulghum’s reflections on shared joys and challenges make it a perfect choice for a wedding ceremony.
Excerpt from Captain Corelli’s Mandolin by Louis de Bernières
This excerpt compares love to a deep-rooted tree that withstands the test of time. It’s poetic, profound, and resonates with the idea of everlasting love.
“I Carry Your Heart” by E.E. Cummings
A classic and tender poem, Cummings’ words speak to the unbreakable connection and unity of two souls. It’s a beautiful expression of love that will leave your guests moved.

Modern Literary Readings

For book-loving couples or those looking for something contemporary, modern literary excerpts can bring a touch of sophistication and relevance to your ceremony.

Excerpt from The Amber Spyglass by Philip Pullman
A profound reflection on love transcending life, this excerpt speaks to the eternal and boundless nature of true love.
“The Velveteen Rabbit” by Margery Williams
This whimsical and heartfelt passage about becoming “real” through love is perfect for couples who appreciate sentimentality and charm.
Excerpt from The Fault in Our Stars by John Green
John Green’s eloquent prose explores the complexities of love in a way that feels raw, modern, and deeply relatable.

Humorous and Lighthearted Readings

Adding a playful tone to your ceremony can make the day even more memorable. Humorous readings are perfect for couples who love to laugh together and want to keep the atmosphere lighthearted.

“Yes, I’ll Marry You My Dear” by Pam Ayres
This witty poem playfully reflects on the quirks of marriage while highlighting its enduring joys.
Excerpt from Oh, the Places You’ll Go! by Dr. Seuss
Dr. Seuss’s whimsical writing style brings an optimistic and fun perspective to the adventure of marriage.
“A Word to Husbands” by Ogden Nash
Short, sweet, and witty, this piece humorously advises on how to keep a marriage harmonious.

Nature-Inspired Readings

Celebrate the natural beauty of love with excerpts that draw inspiration from the world around us. These readings are perfect for outdoor ceremonies or eco-conscious couples.

Excerpt from The Prophet by Kahlil Gibran (On Love)
Gibran’s philosophical words offer a poetic and nonreligious take on the depths and meaning of love.
“Sonnet XVII” by Pablo Neruda
This lush and nature-rich sonnet speaks to the deep, rooted connection between two people in love.
“Wild Awake” by Hilary T. Smith
A modern poetic meditation, this piece captures the joy and wonder of being in love in a fresh and vibrant way.

Quotes and Excerpts from Movies and TV Shows

For pop culture enthusiasts, these readings bring a touch of nostalgia and relatability, connecting your love story to beloved characters and narratives.

Excerpt from Love Actually
The opening narration about love being all around is a charming and universal choice for a wedding reading.
Carrie Bradshaw’s “Love” Letter from Sex and the City
A heartfelt and modern declaration of love, this excerpt captures the complexities and beauty of relationships.
Lines from The Princess Bride
Iconic quotes about “true love” add a whimsical and nostalgic charm to your ceremony.

Customizing Your Wedding Reading

Personalizing your wedding reading can make it even more meaningful. Consider incorporating inside jokes, shared experiences, or cultural references that are special to you as a couple.

Tips for creating your own reading:

Write a heartfelt letter to your partner, then edit it into a reading.
Use snippets from your favorite books, letters, or songs that hold personal significance.
Blend poetry, prose, or original writing to craft something unique.

How to Include Your Readings in the Ceremony

Including a reading in your ceremony can be done in a variety of ways. Some couples choose to place the reading before their vows, as part of the ceremony introduction, or during a special moment like a unity ritual.

Who should read it?
A close friend, family member, or even the couple themselves can bring the reading to life. Choose someone whose voice and presence will make the moment even more special.

Nonreligious Wedding Readings

Nonreligious wedding readings offer endless possibilities to make your ceremony truly unique and reflective of your love story. Whether you opt for romantic poetry, humorous prose, or meaningful quotes from literature and pop culture, the right reading will resonate with you and your guests for years to come.

Have a favorite nonreligious wedding reading? Share it in the comments to inspire other couples planning their special day!