Brooke Martin
Unity candle ceremonies are a popular ritual at weddings, symbolizing the joining of two families and the merging of two people. The unity candle is typically lit after the couple has exchanged vows and rings, although some couples may opt to light it beforehand. The ceremony involves the couple lighting a large pillar candle, known as the unity candle, with two taper candles, representing the union of their lives and the love they share. While there is no set rule on when to incorporate the unity candle, it is often used to symbolize the couple's love and commitment during the wedding ceremony.
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| When is the unity candle lit? | Usually, the unity candle is lit right after the exchange of vows and rings. But this isn’t set in stone – some couples prefer to light the candle before the vows. |
| Who lights the unity candle? | The couple lights the unity candle together. Sometimes, the taper candles are lit by a parent or elder, and then passed to the couple to light the unity candle. |
| What is said during the ceremony? | Couples can choose to recite a few words, a meaningful passage or a poem during the ceremony. |
| What does the unity candle symbolise? | The unity candle ceremony symbolises the union of the couple and the creation of a blended family supporting the couple. |
| What are some alternatives to the unity candle ceremony? | Sand ceremony, wine box ceremony, tree planting ceremony |
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What You'll Learn
Unity candle ceremony symbolism
Unity candle ceremonies are a popular ritual at weddings, often used to symbolise the union of two people in marriage. The ceremony involves a couple using two smaller taper candles to light a larger 'unity' candle simultaneously. The smaller candles represent each individual, and the centre candle symbolises the union of the couple and their two families.
The unity candle ceremony is a modern tradition, which has gained popularity in Christian and interfaith weddings, but is also performed by couples with varying religions and beliefs. It is a powerful symbol of love and faith in the strength of the couple's relationship. The ceremony is usually conducted by an officiant, who may read from a script before the couple lights the candle.
The unity candle is typically lit after the couple has exchanged vows and rings, although some couples may choose to light it beforehand, especially if the unity candle ceremony is part of a handfasting ceremony. The taper candles may be lit by the couple's mothers or elders, symbolising their love and support for the marriage. The mothers may also say a few words before the couple lights the unity candle.
After the unity candle is lit, the couple may choose to blow out their individual taper candles, symbolising that they are now joined as one and will never be fully separated again. The couple may also recite a poem or passage at this point. The unity candle is usually left burning until the end of the wedding, when it is extinguished by the officiant or a wedding attendant, to be kept as a memento.
Couples can personalise their unity candle ceremony by choosing different coloured candles or decorations, such as ribbons, engravings or quotes. The ceremony can also be adapted to include music or readings, creating a memorable and symbolic ritual for the couple's wedding day.
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When to light the unity candle
The unity candle ceremony is a symbolic ritual that is often incorporated into weddings to symbolise the union of two people and their families. The ceremony involves the couple using two separate taper candles to light a larger centre candle together. This ritual is usually performed after the couple has exchanged their vows and rings, but some couples choose to light the candle before the vows.
The unity candle ceremony is not limited to religious weddings and can be adapted to suit different beliefs and cultures. It is a popular choice for Catholic and Christian weddings, where the candle's flame may represent the light of God within each partner. However, it is also performed by couples with varying religions or none at all.
There is no set rule for when the unity candle should be lit, and couples can choose the timing that feels right for them. Some couples may prefer to light the candle earlier in the ceremony to reduce the chance of it being blown out by wind or other unforeseen circumstances.
During the ceremony, the couple typically stands together and lights the unity candle simultaneously. The taper candles may be lit by the couple or by their mothers, symbolising their love and support for the marriage. After lighting the unity candle, the couple may blow out the taper candles to signify the joining of two lives. This act represents that they will never be fully separated from each other again and now exist as one family unit.
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Who lights the unity candle
Unity candle ceremonies are a beautiful way to symbolise the union of two people in marriage. The lighting of the unity candle is usually done by the couple, with each person holding a taper candle that they use to light the larger unity candle together. This is often done after the vows and ring exchange, but some couples choose to light the candle before the vows, especially if they are also participating in a handfasting ceremony.
The unity candle ceremony is typically facilitated by a wedding officiant, who will instruct the couple when to light the candle. The officiant may also read from a script before the candle is lit, to explain the symbolism of the ritual. The ceremony can be adapted to include friends and family, such as parents or elders, who may light the taper candles and pass them to the couple to light the unity candle. This can be a meaningful way to symbolise their blessing and support for the marriage.
In some cases, the couple may choose to blow out their individual taper candles after lighting the unity candle, to symbolise their unity and oneness in marriage. Alternatively, the candles can remain lit until the end of the ceremony, when the officiant or a wedding attendant will blow them out and keep them as a memento for the couple.
There is no one-size-fits-all approach to unity candle ceremonies, and couples can personalise the ritual to make it meaningful for them. The ceremony can be adapted to fit the flow of the wedding and the preferences of the couple, with the guidance of the officiant.
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Unity candle ceremony alternatives
Unity candle ceremonies are a popular way to symbolise the union of two people in a wedding ceremony. However, there are many alternatives to this tradition that you can incorporate into your wedding.
One alternative is the sand ceremony, where you and your partner pour different-coloured sand into a single vase, shadow box, or hourglass. The individual colours of sand represent you as individuals, coming together to form a new unit. This can also be done with glass crystals, which can then be sent to an artist to be blown into a sculpture, vase, or bowl.
Another option is to each bring a small jar of paint in different colours and pour them together down a canvas. The result is a colourful keepsake of your union.
For nature lovers, a tree-watering or tree-planting ceremony can be a meaningful way to symbolise your growing love. If you're worried about your green thumb, you could consider a potted plant or a unity jade plant instead.
If you're looking for something more unique, you could try a unity sandwich, where each layer of the sandwich represents a different part of marriage, or a puzzle, where each person in the family has a piece with their name on it, and the completed puzzle symbolises the family coming together as one.
Finally, for those who want a bold statement, a bonfire can be a perfect alternative, especially for an outdoor wedding. Create a designated fire pit before the ceremony and spark the bonfire to signify your love.
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Keeping the unity candle lit
A unity candle ceremony is a meaningful way to symbolise the joining of two people and their families. The couple each lights a candle, simultaneously lighting a larger "unity candle" in the centre. This simple ritual is often included in wedding ceremonies, but the timing of the lighting can vary. Some couples choose to light the unity candle after exchanging vows and rings, while others prefer to light it beforehand, especially if there is a handfasting ceremony involved.
If you're planning an outdoor wedding, unpredictable weather and blustering winds might get in the way of your unity candle ceremony. Here are some tips to ensure the candle stays lit:
- Use a small votive candle instead of a lighter: A small candle in a holder will stay lit longer than a lighter and can be used to light the unity candle.
- Move the candle-lighting to the end of the ceremony: This way, the candle won't have to stay lit for too long, reducing the risk of it being blown out.
- Choose a sheltered location: If possible, set up your ceremony in a sheltered area to minimise the impact of wind.
- Use hurricane glass: Enclosing the unity candle in hurricane glass can protect the flame from being extinguished by wind.
- Involve your wedding party: Ask your wedding party or guests to participate in the candle-lighting ceremony. Each guest could be given an unlit candle, and the couple could light the candle of the person in the front row, who then passes the flame on until the unity candle is lit. This way, even if the wind blows out one candle, the unity candle can be re-lit quickly.
- Keep flammable objects away: Ensure that any flammable objects, such as veils or handfasting ribbons, are kept away from the candles to prevent accidents.
- Have a backup plan: If all else fails, have a backup plan, such as an electric candle or a lighter that can be used to re-light the candle if necessary.
Remember, it's important to check with your venue beforehand, as not all venues allow live flames. With a little extra planning, you can ensure that your unity candle ceremony is a memorable and seamless part of your special day.
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