The Art of Marriage by Wilferd Arlan is a classic wedding reading that is simple, sweet and sure to have your guests smiling. It has also stood the test of time, and is one of the most popular readings of the last half a century. Talk about timeless sentiments! We have a free printable copy and a jpeg down below to get your Pinterest wedding readings board off to a good start...

The Art of Marriage

by Wilferd Arlan Peterson

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.
It is having a mutual sense of values and common objectives.
It is standing together facing the world. It is forming a circle of love that gathers the whole family.

It is doing things for each other, not in the attitude of duty or sacrifice, but in the spirit of joy.
It is speaking words of appreciation and demonstrating gratitude in thoughtful ways.
It is not looking for perfection in each other.
It is cultivating flexibility, patience, understanding and a sense of humour.
It is having the capacity to forgive and forget.
It is giving each other an atmosphere in which each can grow old.
It is a common search for the good and the beautiful.
It is establishing a relationship in which the independence is equal, dependence is mutual and the obligation is reciprocal.
It is not only marrying the right partner; it is being the right partner.

As far as wedding readings go, we think The Art Of Marriage is up there with the best. If you're looking for other readings for your ceremony we have the ultimate list of wedding readings here that is sure to feature something you like! If you're having a religious wedding ceremony we've got a modern bible verse roundup too. And for podcast lovers, we have a whole episode dedicated to all things wedding readings. Happy listening!