Scriptural Readings

• Whether you're Christian or Jewish, the Bible holds some of the most beautiful stories and imagery of marriage. From the story of Adam and Eve in Genesis 2:18-24 to the Song of Solomon, couples find the ultimate message of love and commitment. For those who want to explain the attributes of love, consider First Corinthians 13. It explains what perfect love should be like. Finally, for an evangelistic message, consider passages from Scriptures that teach about the similarities between marriage and the relationship God desires with his people.
  
  

Traditional Poetry

• Both romantic and passionate, traditional poetry can create vivid images of a couple's desire. Poets such as William Shakespeare and Jon Donne have written poems explaining the beauty and need for marriage. Elizabeth Barrett Browning penned many poems to describe her love for her husband, and Percy Shelley created a masterpiece about the purpose of marriage. For those who desire a more ritualistic marriage, consider an Irish or Indian blessing poem.
  
  

Modern Poetry and Stories

• Modern poems can hold an easy-to-understand but deep definition of marriage. Love letters from past generations can be a beautiful reminder of the length and importance of the commitment being made. Excerpts from a favorite novel or short story can provide a window into a couple's heart and overall desire for their marriage.