The public commitment of two people in love to live together as husband and wife never fails to move me. The declaration of love and commitment is a powerful force in this life. This may be the reason why many people seem almost embarrassed by it and tend to want rush through this part of the ceremony.

I’ve written words that aim to help you embrace these moments – for they are pivotal moments in life. You’ll never be at this point with this person in front of these guests again, so make it memorable and special.

The words I’ve included in this section can be inserted into a ceremony as you wish.  A great place for readings is prior to the celebrant commencing the portion of the ceremony where the couple is asked if they will take each other as husband/wife and vows are subsequently exchanged.

The other appropriate place for readings is just after the rings have been exchanged. Choose words that ring true for you.

Read the words of each piece and see how they feel. You’ll see that some would work well anywhere in a ceremony and others would sit best at a particular point.
 
Some pieces are written from the viewpoint of a woman, others from that of a man. I have no problem if you want to change the “he’s” to “she’s” and vice versa – as long as it works for you. Many pieces could express feelings of either the bride or the groom, from both of you or those of friends and family.

Again, you or the celebrant could read your selections or you can choose to ask a wedding party member to read. For example, a bridesmaid may incorporate a reading like this:

This afternoon I’m reading some words that Rachel has chosen to express how she feels about marrying Peter called Loving in Public. (Bridesmaid reads verse)

Or the celebrant could introduce the bridesmaid’s reading, for example:

Rachel has asked that her bridesmaid, Linda, read some special words that express how she feels about marrying Peter today. (Linda comes forward and reads Loving in Public)

Get several people to read the pieces that you like – you’re not restricted to just one reading at any given time. It’s a great way to get your family and friends involved in the day. 

Just make sure they practice reading the selected pieces aloud. Advise them to read clearly and more slowly than normal speaking pace. Many celebrants have a public address microphone system that can assist in all readers being heard.

Don’t rush the ceremony, as it will all be over in a flash on the actual day. Don’t feel pressured to keep it short by other people or think that people will be bored. 

Aim for around 15 - 20 minutes. You’ll need to allow another ten minutes or so for the signing of the register. Keep in mind that asking people to stand or to weather hot sunshine without shelter for more than 20 minutes in total will be uncomfortable for your guests. You’ll need to take this into consideration when choosing your venue and the time of the ceremony.

See Section 2 in the complete collection

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