What is a reading at a wedding ceremony?

Short answer

A reading is a short passage spoken during the ceremony by a guest, usually a poem, a piece of prose or a passage from a religious text. It sits between the vows and the signing, or earlier in the service, and it gives the ceremony a moment of calm and meaning.

A reading is a passage someone else says out loud during your ceremony. It might be a poem, a paragraph from a book, a letter, a song lyric or a passage from a religious text. It is not a speech and it is not a toast. It lasts a minute or two and it gives everyone a pause before or after the promises.

Readings are usually given by a friend or family member rather than the couple. Choose someone who is comfortable standing up and speaking clearly. Give them the words well in advance, printed in a large, clear font, and tell them where to stand and when to step forward.

In a civil ceremony in England and Wales, readings cannot include religious content, such as prayers or hymns. Poems, songs and non-religious prose are fine if the registrar agrees. In a religious ceremony, your place of worship will have its own rules about what can be read, so ask them.

A reading can also be a moment of inclusion. If you have children, a sibling or a grandparent who would like to take part, a short reading is an easy way to give them a role.