Victorian poetry isn't my absolute favourite but I often make an exception for Elizabeth Barrett Browning. This one is perfect. In fact, it hits so many wedding boxes I'm surprised its not tired and overused. I did a search and couldn't find it on a single wedding listicle. What a relief.

 

The Best Thing in the World


What's the best thing in the world?
June-rose, by May-dew impearled;
Sweet south-wind, that means no rain;
Truth, not cruel to a friend;
Pleasure, not in haste to end;
Beauty, not self-decked and curled
Till its pride is over-plain;
Light, that never makes you wink;
Memory, that gives no pain;
Love, when, so, you're loved again.
What's the best thing in the world ?
— Something out of it, I think.


by Elizabeth Barrett Browning