Short answer
Pick a short line that sounds like your own voice and fits your ceremony type. Many couples choose warm, hopeful film quotes for civil or humanist readings.
Film quotes work well as readings because they are familiar and often express love in a way that feels personal. Choose something that matches how you speak and the tone of your day. Keep it short enough to read aloud without stumbling, and make sure it does not contain language that might upset guests.
Civil ceremonies in England and Wales cannot include religious content such as hymns, prayers or religious readings. Poems, songs and non-religious readings are fine if the registrar agrees. A film quote is usually acceptable, but you must clear it with the registrar or celebrant in advance. Humanist ceremonies in England and Wales are not legally binding on their own, so many couples add a civil ceremony. In Scotland and Northern Ireland, humanist celebrants can conduct legal weddings.
Some popular options include lines about partnership and choosing each other every day. You might pick a quote from a romance, a drama or even a comedy that means something to both of you. Read it aloud first to check the rhythm and ask a friend to listen.
- A line about finding your home in another person
- A promise to support each other through change
- A hopeful line about growing old together
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