Unity candles have been around for a long time. Then came sand ceremonies, where the bride and groom each pour sand (usually of a different color) into one shared container to show they've become one. But here are a few more ways to show your love for one another during your wedding ceremony:
1. Blessing of Rings: You can pass around your wedding rings to those in attendance. They each take a moment to hold them and wish you both well. Jason and I did this at our 70-person ceremony and thought it helped those in attendance feel more involved in our wedding.
2. Handfasting: This is a Celtic ceremony where the bride and groom's hands are joined in a figure eight, and then tied together. I love the idea of using a piece of fabric that's special to your families–maybe pieces of your baby blankets, something knitted just for the occasion, or maybe even a ribbon from your grandmother's bouquet.
3. Water Cleansing: This is a purifying ritual to symbolize the release of the past, so that you enter into marriage with an open heart. Water is poured over the open palms of both people getting married. Of course you will want to be sure to stretch out your hands so that the water doesn't splatter on your wedding dress!
4. Friendship Circle: Best for smaller ceremonies, this spin on an old Quaker tradition has the couple in the middle of a circle that is formed by their friends and family, who can take turns saying nice things about the couple or wishing them well. You could even be bestowed with advice for a successful union. Just be sure to give bashful folks the opportunity to pass on speaking aloud.
5. Tree Planting: This is a great idea for people getting married in their backyard and presents two individuals coming together as one. The tree should be mostly planted beforehand, and each of you just gives it a symbolic small shovel of dirt. This is also great for couples who want to have an eco-conscious wedding. You could plant a small seedling in a small pail with the intention of replanting it at your house later.
If you did something a bit unsual at your wedding ceremony, we'd love to hear about it!
I love this post! I just read about sand ceremonies and we decided we’d like to do that. The handfasting ceremony sounds really beautiful though- something to consider since both of us have some celtic ancestry. Thanks for this ann!
Anytime, Gisele! I love the sand idea because it’s so southwest, too.