Embracing Rituals and Symbolism in Your Wedding Ceremony
Rituals hold immensely powerful visual symbolism and make a beautiful inclusion in any wedding ceremony. Here are some common rituals that you may like to include in your ceremony.
Unity Candles
Two small candles are placed on the side of one larger candle. The couple each take a small candle that is pre-lit and together light the large candle in the middle. This represents the joining of two people and their families.
Sand Ceremony
Like the unity candle, but rather than a candle, the couple (you may also like to include additional family members) have vials of different coloured sand that are poured and combined into a large glass container/carafe. It is said that once the sand is poured and combined, the sand can never be broken again, just as the sanctity of marriage can never be divided and broken.
Rose or Flower Ceremony
The act of giving flowers to special people in your life during the wedding ceremony is a heartfelt way to express your love, gratitude, and appreciation for everything they have done to support and nurture you throughout your lives. It symbolises the bond you share with them and signifies the importance of family in your journey as individuals and couples.
The rose ceremony can be performed at any stage during the ceremony.
You may also like to attach letters of love and gratitude. This ceremony can be extended to include grandparents or children/stepchildren – you can substitute flowers with small gifts, letters of love etc.
Wine/Champagne Ceremony
The wine ceremony or ‘cup of love’ as it is sometimes called, is a fab way to include something symbolic and romantic in your ceremony, especially if you are a big wine freak, like me! But apart from getting to have a little tipple during your ceremony (yippee!) there is some cool symbolism attached to this ritual and with some added personal touches it really can be made into a lovely celebratory element of your ceremony. This ceremony can also offer an opportunity to thank guests/family members for their love and support.
Create a Time Capsule
A bottle of wine is enclosed into a box with two glasses. You can add an extra layer of meaning within the ceremony by including love letters to one another or a copy of your personal vows, alongside the wine and designating a specific occasion (such as a future anniversary) when you read your love letters and enjoy your wine.
Each of these rituals and ceremonies can be customised to reflect your personalities, values, and the unique bond you share. Whether you choose one or combine several, they will add depth and beauty to your wedding day, creating cherished memories for years to come.
If you're inspired by these ideas and would like to incorporate them into your ceremony, or if you have other traditions in mind, let's discuss how we can make your wedding day truly special. Reach out to me, and together, we'll create a ceremony that celebrates your love in a meaningful and personalized way.
Warm regards,
Genine
