The unity ceremony in a wedding captures the true meaning of two lives becoming one during a wedding. There are many variations to the unity ceremony which are outlined below:
Unity Candle: Probably one of the most common unity ceremonies, the bride and groom each take a lit candle (usually lit prior to the ceremony by the mothers) and light a single, larger “unity” candle together. This new larger candle marks the togetherness of the couple.
Sand Ceremony:Gaining in popularity (especially with beach weddings) the sand ceremony consists of the bride and groom each taking turns filling a vase with different colors of sand. The blending of the sand creates a valuable keepsake for the couple to take home afterwards.
Planting a Tree: A newer idea of planting a tree to symbolize the couple uniting and growing together. The couple each adds dirt to a seeding in a larger plot. The couple can then watch the tree grow as they do over the coming years.
Other Variations of the Unity Ceremony:
Vases with Water: The couple pours water into a new vase together.
Vases with Flowers: The couple creates a new bouquet of flowers by taking their own separate flowers and joining them together.
Dove Release: The couple releases two white doves as a meaning of lifelong love and commitment since doves choose a partner for life.
Broom Jumping: An African American custom of jumping over a broom.
Lasso Ceremony: A lasso or rope is draped around the shoulders (sometimes even the necks or wrists) of the couple as a symbol of unity.
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