Few readings speak quite so honestly about the reality of lasting love as this beautiful poem, often shared under the title Marry Your Best Friend. Rather than dwelling solely on romance, it celebrates something even deeper: the friendship that forms the foundation of a strong and enduring marriage. It reminds us that laughter, kindness, comfort and the ability to weather life’s hardest moments together are every bit as important as passion itself.
Simple, heartfelt and deeply relatable, this reading has become a favourite for modern wedding ceremonies because it captures what so many couples hope to build together, a relationship where joy is shared freely, vulnerability is welcomed and love grows stronger through every season of life. Whether read by a celebrant, a close friend or a family member, it offers a touching reflection on the qualities that make a marriage not only survive, but truly flourish. If you are searching for a wedding ceremony reading that feels warm, sincere and full of quiet wisdom, Marry Your Best Friend is a beautiful choice.
Marry your best friend.
I do not say that lightly.
Really, truly find the strongest,
Happiest friendship
In the person you fall in love with.
Someone who speaks highly of you.
Someone you can laugh with.
The kind of laughs that make
Your belly ache, and your nose snort.
The embarrassing, earnest, healing kind of laughs.
Wit is important.
Life is too short not to love someone
Who lets you be a fool with them.
Make sure they are somebody
Who lets you cry, too.
Despair will come.
Find someone that you want
To be there with you
Through those times.
Most importantly,
Marry the one that makes passion,
Love, and madness combine
And course through you.
A love that will never dilute –
Even when the waters get deep, and dark.
