Unity ceremonies are a visual way to signify the unification of two different families joining together as the Bride and Groom are married. When thinking of unity ceremonies, most people are familiar with the unity candle, but breezy wine country makes this a difficult option! Here are some other really great alternatives to the traditional unity candle:
Wine ceremony – Very fitting for a winery wedding! Two glasses or decanters of wine (one containing white wine and one containing red wine) are set up with an empty glass between them. The Bride and Groom then pour the two different wines into the empty wine glass. Once the wine is blended, the Bride takes a sip and offers the glass to the Groom who also takes a sip. This blending and consuming of the wine signify their unification.
Wine Box –The Bride and Groom write each other a love letter and purchase a bottle of wine. They then place the wine in a box with the two love letters. This can be displayed throughout the ceremony. When time for the unity ceremony, the Bride and Groom lock or nail the box shut until a predetermined anniversary when they will open the box, read the letters to one another, and celebrate with the wine! (You can find really fun wine boxes on Etsy)
Sand Ceremony – This is a great way to include children if either the Bride or Groom has any. There are small sand containers in various colors representing each of the members included in the sand ceremony and one large, empty container. Each member then takes their color and combine the sand in the larger container to represent the blending together of the Bride and Groom, their children, and families!
Ring Warming – Right before the ring exchange, the mothers are asked to come forward to take the wedding rings and warm them in their hands. The officiant goes on to explain that, as the mothers are warming the rings, they are adding their love and blessing to the Bride and Groom’s marriage.
Wishing Stones – Ask guests to pick up a stone from a bowl provided as they enter for the ceremony. Throughout the ceremony the guests will warm the stones with their hands. While they are warming the stones they are offering good wishes and blessings to the Bride and Groom. At the end of the ceremony, the guests will place the stones in a basket or bowl, and the Bride and Groom can then display the stones in their home as decoration and a bowl of blessings and good wishes.
–Christina Van Houten
–What did you do for your unity ceremony?
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