Lauren here 👋🏻
Recently I was filling out a questionnaire for my wedding photographer and one of the questions was “what type of unity ceremony will you be including in your ceremony?” And I panicked because I hadn’t considered any of my options and we are a month out from the big day! If you are engaged or about to be, let me share some of our findings so you can plan better than I have!
The Celtic knot
Using a ribbon, rope, or scarf, this tradition shows the physical as well as spiritual bond that marriage represents through tying the couples’ hands or wrists together. Quite literally “tying the knot”. In ancient Ireland, this ceremony is also called “hand-fasting” and be tied together while you recite your vows.
2. Combining sand
This tradition is perfectly placed at a beach wedding so that you can use sand from the beach you are getting married on. It also works for blended families if you would like your children to be represented in the unity of the family. Sam went to a wedding where the couple each brought sand from their respective home countries.
3. lighting a candle
The unity candle is typically lit by each partner holding their own candles and lighting the third candle together, symbolizing two people becoming one.
4. releasing a lantern
Best done during a dusk or night ceremony, this symbolizes sending your love out into the universe. Some like to put notes or vows inside as well!
5. The lasso
Put around the neck or head- the wedding officiant will wrap a garland of your choosing around each partner’s neck in an infinity symbol during the ceremony and then after it is removed the garland can become part of your home to be a constant reminder of your never ending love. Traditionally, floral garlands are used in southeast Asian ceremonies, and around the head (attached with a ribbon) is usually seen during Greek weddings.
6. Pouring paint on a mini canvas
This is similar to the idea of pouring sand, but instead creates art for the walls of your home. Pick a color to represent each of you (and potentially a color for your children if they will be a part of the wedding). Combining the colors will show how two are becoming one on that day.
7. Combining drinks
If art is not your thing, find what is! Do you like drinking wine together? Or is tea your comfort after a long day? Combine each of your favorite flavors to become one.
8. Planting a tree
This is a great way to visualize your love growing and becoming stronger over the (many) years. Also, a great option for the more eco friendly couple!
9. The time capsule
You can add in wine, letters, objects*, and open it on important anniversary. This could be something that just the couple participates in, or the rest of the guests could be included if you’re having an intimate ceremony. Having memories to be reminded of years down the line will bring you back to the day you said “I do”.
*If you want a couple’s illustration to add to your box, just click here!
10. Jumping the Broom
This ceremony symbolizes jumping into your new life together and sweeping away your past so that you can start new as a married couple.
Which of these ceremonies would you choose for your wedding? But most importantly, which one do I choose?!? Let me know in the comments!
Lauren Allen, Author
Lauren is a bridal consultant and self-published author, with a background in celebrity styling and bridal make up artistry. You can find her with an oat milk cappuccino in the morning, and a glass of Cabernet at night, her real passions. Lauren is based in Kansas CIty and her book “How to Be 23” can be found here
