The Best Non-Religious Wedding Readings for Your Ceremony
Are you searching for the perfect non-religious wedding readings to make your ceremony unforgettable? You’ve come to the right place! As a seasoned wedding videographer, I’ve had the privilege of capturing countless heartfelt moments, including some truly memorable wedding readings.
Whether you’re looking for something romantic, humorous, or deeply meaningful, non-religious readings offer a modern and inclusive way to celebrate your love. Below, I’ve curated a selection of my favorite non-religious readings, grouped into categories to help you find the perfect words for your special day. Each reading includes a video so you can see how it’s delivered in a real ceremony.
Romantic and Poetic Wedding Readings
If you’re dreaming of a ceremony filled with romance and poetry, these readings are for you. They’re perfect for couples who want to express their love in a way that’s both timeless and deeply personal. These selections are ideal for setting a tender, emotional tone during your ceremony.
Soulmates by Lang Leav
“Soulmates” by Lang Leav is a beautiful inclusion as a wedding ceremony reading because it encapsulates the essence of love and unity. Lang Leav’s eloquent words express that love is a profound connection of souls, a meeting of hearts that goes beyond the superficial and fleeting.
This poem resonates with couples because it beautifully conveys the idea that in finding one’s soulmate, a deeper purpose is fulfilled, and life’s journey becomes more meaningful.
“I don’t know how you are so familiar to me or why it feels less like I am getting to know you and more as though I am remembering who you are. How every smile, every whisper brings me closer to the impossible conclusion that I have known you before, I have loved you before in another time, a different place, some other existence.”
The Bridge Across Forever by Richard Bach
“A soulmate is someone who has locks that fit our keys, and keys to fit our locks. When we feel safe enough to open the locks, our truest selves step out and we can be completely and honestly who we are; we can be loved for who we are and not for who we’re pretending to be. Each unveils the best part of the other.”
“No matter what else goes wrong around us, with that one person, we’re safe in our own paradise. Our soulmate is someone who shares our deepest longings, and our sense of direction. When we’re two balloons, and together our direction is up, chances are we’ve found the right person. Our soulmate is the one who makes life come to life.”
Heartfelt and Reflective Readings
Sometimes, the most meaningful readings are the ones that reflect on the realities of love and marriage. These selections are heartfelt and thoughtful, offering wisdom and insight into what it takes to build a lasting relationship. They’re perfect for couples who want to acknowledge the journey ahead while celebrating their commitment.
The Art of Marriage by Wilferd Arlan Peterson
This classic reading is all about the little things that make a marriage work. From holding hands to saying “I love you” every day, it’s a beautiful reminder that love is built on small, everyday moments.
Happiness in marriage is not something that just happens.
A good marriage must be created. In marriage, the little things are the big things.
It is never being too old to hold hands.
It is remembering to say “I love you” at least once a day.
It is never going to sleep angry.
It is at no time taking the other for granted; the courtship should not end with the honeymoon, it should continue through the years.
Watch the full reading by clicking the video above.
Getting Married Means You’ll Have by Nicholas Gordon
This is one of those non-religious wedding readings that feels both heartfelt and real. It doesn’t sugarcoat things. It talks about the ups and downs of marriage in a way that’s honest but still so sweet.
And can we talk about how adorable it is when a child performs it? Having a little one read these words adds a unique and charming touch to the ceremony. It’s the kind of moment that makes everyone smile while still tugging at their heartstrings.
If you’re planning a secular or interfaith wedding, this reading is perfect for couples who want something meaningful but inclusive. It’s short, easy to follow, and full of wisdom about what married life is really like. Making it a great fit for modern ceremonies.
Getting married means you’ll have
Someone’s hand to hold,
Even when you’re feeling sick,
Even when you’re old.
It means when you sit down to eat,
Someone will be there,
So you won’t have to tell your day
To an empty chair.
Click the video above to hear it beautifully read by a child during a real wedding ceremony.
Lighthearted and Relatable Wedding Readings
Not every reading has to be serious! If you’re the kind of couple who values humor and authenticity, these selections will resonate with you. They’re perfect for adding a touch of levity to your ceremony while still honoring the depth of your relationship.
He’s Not Perfect by Bob Marley
This excerpt from Bob Marley is refreshingly honest about the realities of love. It’s a great choice for couples who value authenticity and want to remind everyone that love isn’t about perfection. It’s about connection.
“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 more than he can give. Don’t analyze. 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.”
Venue: Intercontinental Sanctuary Cove Resort
Union by Robert Fulghum
Robert Fulghum’s “Union” is a lighthearted yet deeply honest take on marriage. It acknowledges the ups and downs of life together while celebrating the bond that keeps you connected.
“You have known each other from the first glance of acquaintance to this point of commitment. At some point, you decided to marry. From that moment of yes to this moment of yes, indeed, you have been making commitments in an informal way.”
“All of those conversations that were held in a car, or over a meal, or during long walks – all those conversations that began with, “When we’re married”, and continued with “I will” and “you will” and “we will” – all those late-night talks that included “someday” and “somehow” and “maybe” – and all those promises that are unspoken matters of the heart. All these common things, and more, are the real process of a wedding.”
Watch the video below to hear the full reading at a real wedding.
Choosing the right non-religious wedding readings can transform your ceremony into a deeply personal and emotional experience. Whether you opt for a romantic poem, a heartfelt reflection, or a lighthearted take on love, these words will stay with you and your guests forever.
And if you’re looking to capture these precious moments on film, I’d love to help! As a wedding videographer, I specialize in preserving the most meaningful parts of your day, from the vows to the readings. Contact me today to learn more about how we can create a timeless keepsake for your special day.