what symbolic actions can I have?
Handfasting
The Passing & Blessing of the Ring or ‘Ring Warming’
The Passing & Blessing of the Ring or ‘Ring Warming’
A traditional Celtic betrothal ceremony, the origin of the phrase 'tie the knot' .Handfasting is becoming increasingly popular as a extra symbol of union.
The Passing & Blessing of the Ring or ‘Ring Warming’
The Passing & Blessing of the Ring or ‘Ring Warming’
The Passing & Blessing of the Ring or ‘Ring Warming’
A beautiful wedding tradition that involves the entire wedding party. The sacred rings are passed to each guest in order for them to give it their blessing. The guest could choose to kiss the ring box, hold it, or say a few words - anything that symbolizes sending positive thoughts and blessings towards the newlyweds. The style of box can also be symbolic, and be personalised to have the date of the wedding, the names of the couple etc.
Sand ceremony
The Passing & Blessing of the Ring or ‘Ring Warming’
Lighting a Unity Candle
A simple and fun yet meaningful ritual that symbolizes unity, is one that involves the mixing of sand. To do this, each partner will have a different colour of sand. They will then mix the sand together into one container in order to symbolize two becoming one. This is an excellent ritual, as it would be impossible to separate the two different kinds of sand - a perfect example of two people who cannot be separated
Lighting a Unity Candle
Lighting a Unity Candle
Lighting a Unity Candle
This is definitely one of the most popular rituals that symbolize unity, and is the perfect activity for those who are following a classical wedding theme. To enjoy this ritual, place three candles at the altar - two of which should have tapered ends. The third candle should be larger without a tapered end. Traditionally, one member from the bride's family and one member from the groom's family will light the two tapered-end candles before the ceremony. Then, after the ceremony, the bride and groom will each grab one tapered candle and light the larger candle, which symbolizes unity, in unison. This unity candle is extinguished at the end of the whole ceremony, and then lit each year on the anniversary of the union.
Mixing a Cocktail
Lighting a Unity Candle
Mixing a Cocktail
For lovers of cocktails and mixed drinks, this is a fun ritual that will surely add a few laughs and smiles on your big day. To do this, you could opt to make an already-known cocktail together with your partner. But for more fun and creativeness, why not choose your own ingredients and prepare a brand-new cocktail? This is a great way for the pair of you to work together to create something brand new.
Jumping the broom
Lighting a Unity Candle
Mixing a Cocktail
This African wedding tradition came about in the 19th century. It was during this time that African slaves were forbidden to marry so instead, they would lay a broom on the ground and jump over it together. This was done as a means to sweep away the past and start over clean and fresh. Nowadays it is an increasingly popular and fun way to symbolise the ‘leap of faith’ which marriage entails.
Matching tattoos
If you don’t like the idea of rings because of their patriarchal symbolism, how about matching tattoos? Often used in a pagan wedding, their permanence is considered a symbol of eternal love.
Exchange of Unique Vows
What better way to make your ceremony unique than to write your own vows? I can help with the writing if you want a bit of extra polish, and you can have copies of the vows framed as a beautiful reminder of your commitment to each other.
Scottish Quaich
Scottish Quaich
A Quaich is a traditional Scottish drinking cup. The two lugs (or handles) emphasise its symbolism as the cup of friendship. It derives from the Scottish Gaelic word 'cuach', which is translated as 'cup'.
It is usual when using the Quaich as a wedding ritual for both partners to hold the cup and drink in turn - what beverage you have in the cup can be your little secret!