The Wedding Poem by Whitney Hanson

Now, when people talk about love, they often go straight to the fireworks. But The Wedding Poem by Whitney Hanson takes a slightly different approach. Instead of love as a blazing fire that burns hot and fizzles out, she compares it to something much more reliable, like a river. Think less "explosive passion" and more "romantic canoe ride with occasional rapids." This poem is a perfect wedding reading because it celebrates a love that lasts. The kind that bends, flows, maybe takes a few detours, but always finds its way back to where it belongs. And let's be honest, that sounds way better than a love that leaves behind emotional smoke damage.

This wedding reading is our most popular wedding reading of 2025 for a reason, so if you love it too, you can download a free PDF version below. 

The Wedding Poem 

by Whitney Hanson

They say that sometimes

love starts with a spark.

And that might be true,

but if I were to wish you a love,

I wouldn't wish fire for you.

You see, fire is powerful.

It burns bright and then it's gone.

It's beautiful and warm,

but it doesn't last long.

So instead of wishing you a love that burns,

I wish you a love like a river twists and turns.

It changes and it flows,

It is powerful and free.

But it consistently finds its way back to the sea.

And so like the water,

I hope your love is ever growing, ever changing.

I hope your love is powerful and free,

And may you always find each other,

Like a river finds the sea.

So, whether you're planning a barefoot beach ceremony or a disco-ball-lit elopement in a warehouse, The Wedding Poem offers a refreshing reminder that great love doesn’t have to come with sparks and spectacle. Instead, it can flow gently, twist naturally, and grow steadily, just like a river. It's a beautiful pick for couples looking to celebrate love that’s deep, dynamic, and down-to-earth. If you’re hunting for more modern and meaningful readings that break away from the traditional mould (no Shakespearean sonnets required), check out our roundup of alternative wedding readings for fresh inspiration.