A Wedding Thing (The One) by Shea Serrano: A Joyful Dive into Love and Celebration
A Quote That Says It All
“The thing about love is that it doesn’t just show up dressed like a perfect bride; it comes as is—messy, funny, and sometimes wearing sneakers under the gown.”
This line from A Wedding Thing (The One) truly encapsulates the essence of the book. It’s a humorous yet profound observation on love, much like Serrano’s overall tone throughout the narrative. He captures the unpredictable, real-life elements of weddings and relationships—where joy often mingles with chaos—and reminds us that love is found in the imperfections.
Summary: Chaos, Laughter, and Love in A Wedding Thing (The One)
Length: 41 pages
Genre: Nonfiction, Humor, Love & Relationships
Publication Year: July 30, 2019
Rating: ⭐⭐⭐⭐½
In A Wedding Thing (The One), Shea Serrano expertly weaves together humor, real-life experiences, and touching moments to craft a book that celebrates love in all its messy, beautiful glory. Readers are taken on a journey through the whirlwind of wedding planning, family dynamics, and the intense emotions of the big day. But this isn’t your typical wedding book—Serrano writes with a unique perspective that focuses on the reality behind the picture-perfect Instagram wedding.
The book centers on the stories of several couples, each navigating their own wedding journey. From funny mishaps to moments of deep emotion, Serrano captures the highs and lows, adding his signature wit and sincerity. It’s more than just a look at weddings—it’s a meditation on love, commitment, and how relationships evolve during life’s major milestones.
Key Facts: The Buzz Around A Wedding Thing (The One)
This book has already garnered glowing praise from readers and celebrities alike. Lin-Manuel Miranda said of the book, “Serrano’s words are like a wedding toast you’ll never forget—funny, heartfelt, and full of love.” High praise like this reinforces how Serrano’s blend of humor and wisdom strikes a chord with readers from all walks of life.
10 Books Similar to A Wedding Thing (The One)
If A Wedding Thing (The One) captivated you, these similar titles will keep the love and laughter going:
Modern Romance by Aziz Ansari
Committed: A Love Story by Elizabeth Gilbert
The Wedding Date by Jasmine Guillory
The Five Love Languages by Gary Chapman
Born a Crime by Trevor Noah
The Rosie Project by Graeme Simsion
Yes Please by Amy Poehler
Bossypants by Tina Fey
Me Talk Pretty One Day by David Sedaris
Save the Date by Morgan Matson
About the Author: Shea Serrano
Shea Serrano is a bestselling author with a unique voice that blends humor, warmth, and insight. Known for Basketball (and Other Things) and The Rap Year Book, Serrano has made a name for himself as a storyteller who tackles serious topics with a light touch. His background as a former teacher and journalist influences his down-to-earth, accessible writing style. Serrano’s ability to inject humor into heartfelt moments makes him stand out, and A Wedding Thing (The One) is no exception.
Writing Style Report: Humor Meets Heart
Serrano’s writing style is conversational, approachable, and peppered with humor that makes you feel like you’re chatting with an old friend. He expertly balances moments of lightheartedness with deeper reflections on love and commitment. His straightforward prose allows the stories of the couples he writes about to shine, while his witty commentary keeps readers engaged. Serrano’s pacing is brisk, ensuring that even as he explores the intricacies of weddings and relationships, the narrative never drags.
5 Key Takeaways from A Wedding Thing (The One)
💍 Love Is Imperfect
Weddings may look picture-perfect, but the true beauty lies in the messy, unscripted moments.
👰 Every Couple’s Journey Is Unique
Serrano shows us that no two weddings—or relationships—are the same, and that’s what makes them special.
🎉 Laughter Is Essential
Whether it’s a wardrobe malfunction or a last-minute cancellation, humor helps carry couples through the stress of wedding planning.
💖 Family Adds Both Stress and Love
Weddings often highlight family dynamics, and Serrano paints an honest picture of how families can complicate but also enrich the experience.
📅 It’s the Little Moments That Matter
Serrano reminds readers that beyond the grand gestures, it’s the quiet, unexpected moments that couples remember most from their weddings.
What’s Unique About This Book?
Unlike many books that glorify the perfect wedding day, A Wedding Thing (The One) focuses on the reality—the messiness, the surprises, and the humor in it all. Shea Serrano’s voice stands out for its authenticity. He doesn’t romanticize the process but instead highlights how love is found in the small, chaotic, and sometimes awkward moments that make life beautiful.
Opinion: A Great Book
Rating: ⭐⭐⭐⭐½
This is easily one of the most refreshing and honest takes on weddings that I’ve read. Serrano’s humor had me laughing out loud, and his insightful reflections on love kept me turning the pages. While I wished for a bit more depth in certain moments, the overall charm, humor, and heart of the book make it a standout. It’s a book that makes you feel, laugh, and reflect on your own love stories.
Who Would Enjoy This Book?
If you enjoy humorous nonfiction that touches on real-life relationships, A Wedding Thing (The One) will be right up your alley. Perfect for people who are planning a wedding, recently engaged, or simply love a good story about the craziness of love and family. Fans of Modern Romance by Aziz Ansari or The Wedding Date by Jasmine Guillory will appreciate the relatable humor and warmth in Serrano’s writing.
Other Books by Shea Serrano
Basketball (and Other Things)
Movies (and Other Things)
The Rap Year Book
Hip-Hop (and Other Things)
Post-Apocalyptic Stories (and Other Things)
Reading Plan
To fully enjoy A Wedding Thing (The One), take your time with it—one story at a time. Each chapter offers a new couple’s wedding journey, making it perfect for reading in small doses or devouring in a single sitting when you’re in need of some humor and heart.
Top Authors in Similar Genres
Aziz Ansari - Modern Romance
Elizabeth Gilbert - Committed: A Love Story
Jasmine Guillory - The Wedding Date
Trevor Noah - Born a Crime
Tina Fey - Bossypants
Comprehensive List of Books Mentioned
Modern Romance by Aziz Ansari
Committed: A Love Story by Elizabeth Gilbert
The Wedding Date by Jasmine Guillory
The Five Love Languages by Gary Chapman
Born a Crime by Trevor Noah
The Rosie Project by Graeme Simsion
Yes Please by Amy Poehler
Bossypants by Tina Fey
Me Talk Pretty One Day by David Sedaris
Save the Date by Morgan Matson
Happy reading! 📚❤️