When looking for readings for our ceremony, we thought about borrowing a page from well-loved books from our childhood. Mr. PaC found two semi-suitable Shel Silverstein poems, but I nixed them since they felt more appropriate for a graduation speech or anniversary toast (“Listen to the Mustn’ts” and “The Folks Inside,” respectively).
Image via: OneWed / Photographer: Kevin Mullins Photography
Then a light came on in Mr. PaC’s attic, er, brain. “What about The Missing Piece?!” Mr. Sweet Stuff was excited by what he remembered of the story. Fast forward to 10 minutes later, and he resignedly tells me the story isn’t quite how he remembered it. As in, it doesn’t work out well for the missing piece or mostly-circle. The mostly-circle tries ALL sorts of different pieces (isn’t that what college is for?) and, when it finds the perfect piece, things go fine for a while, but it doesn’t work out and the piece is unceremoniously ejected. And the search for a new piece resumes. Oh. Not quite the message we wanted to impart during our ceremony.
You could liken his quest for a reading to the mostly-circle’s own search. Lots of interesting readings, but none wedding worthy. Somehow the seriousness of the search had devolved to where he was entertaining lyrics from “Sweet Child o’ Mine.” Cue blank, unblinking stare. But the best part? Our reader jokingly agreed to it under one circumstance: only if he can rock an air guitar.
Image via Pabst Theater
(Yes, there truly is such a thing. Not a spoof!)
Mom, Dad…other guests, don’t fret. We are not using a hair-metal song for our reading! While we are not going the traditional route, Mr. PaC’s final choice is meaningful and appropriate. And you’ll have to wait until the ceremony to hear it.
I Like You poster via TwoCardinalDay on Etsy
What about my reading? I’ve always been fond of I Like You and didn’t abandonwagon it, which says something for how strongly I feel about it. For me, it’s just the right mood for our playful souls. I don’t mind that it’s overdone. It suits us, and no one else—not even engaged friends and family—is immersed in wedding culture as deeply as this blogging bride.
If you’re incorporating a reading into your ceremony, what style will it be? Does it hold a special significance for you?
I love the idea of children’s books for readings! I am so excited to see what ends up making the final cut!
Ooh–can’t wait to see what your choice is. We are doing “The Art Of Marriage”by Wilferd A. Peterson (the long version). I absolutely love it!
Shel Silverstein is my fave; I seriously have everything he’s ever written. My dad would read from his books to me every night before I went to sleep when I was little. Sigh. The good ol’ days.
I love the “I Like You”, its so cute and fun! Too bad Mr. PaC’s puzzle one had that ending, it would have been a really cute and unique reading.
Not surprisingly since I like all of your wedding choices, I love “I Like You”! I actually gave the book to my husband years ago, and if we had been able to choose readings for our ceremony, I definitely would have picked this. Thanks for the Etsy link, maybe it would be a good first anniversary present! 
Love your pick, PaC. I’m glad you decided to use it! My Mom used to read all of the Shel Silverstein books to me when I was growing up–I adore all of his books!
We are using “Oh the Places You’ll Go” by Dr. Seuss. We wanted something whimsical and fun and since this is a great new adventure we are embarking on……
Silverstein is always great too.
I love A Missing Piece! Unfortunately, the Catholic contingent frowns on readings, but we’re hoping to include readings in our programs.
@Miss Pony: There’s a sequel: The Missing Piece Meets the Big O. It’s a little better, although neither work for our shindig.@sarahnyc23: Glad to help! We meet with Linda tomorrow to go over details.
@AbbieMason: Are you reading the whole book or just selections?
@Miss Tartlet & @Miss Candy Apple: We grew up with Shel Silverstein bedtime stories too. Nice childhood memories.
@TitaniumSpork: Whimsical and fun — weddings need more of this! Like the Seuss selection.
@Miss Biscuit: Do they frown on non-Bible readings or reading in general? I like your idea of including it in the program; it’s a good way around it!
Our church requires a Scripture reading, but I think the one we selected is fairly representative of what we want to say!
Your choices are all great – not to mention great inspiration!
Mrs. Pain au Chocolat, Wilmington, DE Age and Occupation: 29, Realtor Fiance's Age and Occupation: 34, Realtor Engagement Date: November 21, 2009 Wedding Date: June 2011 Venue: Greenville Country Club About Me: An ENFJ with an artistic streak who loves backgammon, sailing, graphic design, and sleeping in. Travel (near or far), good wine, and tasty food makes my heart sing. I'm a compulsive list-maker who lives to plan and organize. Mr. P and I have lived together for 4 years, all the while renovating our city townhome bit by bit. We're planning a whimsical, Anthropologie-inspired garden wedding in June 2011.
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