Symbolic rituals are a lovely way to add an extra layer of meaning to any ceremony that celebrates two or more people coming together. Each ceremony ritual can be done in different ways, with unique wording and meaning to suit you and your celebration.
Below are some examples of symbolic rituals – this is not an exhaustive list and if you have something else in mind, we can get creative.
Unity Candle
A couple or members of a family light individual taper candles and then a central unity candle together, to symbolise that a united flame is stronger than the individual flames
Sand Ceremony
Layers of coloured sand are combined in a vessel to symbolise the coming together of two or more people. The sand cannot be separated once it has been combined
Ring Warming/Blessing
A couple’s rings are passed around guests during the ceremony and are ‘warmed’ or ‘blessed’ by people’s well wishes and prayers before the couple exchange their rings.
Handfasting
An ancient Celtic ritual in which hands are tied together to symbolize the binding of two lives (think tying the knot…) This can be done by the couple, but sometimes people choose to involve other family members.
Rose Ceremony
A couple may give each other a rose, or they may give a rose to a member of the other’s family.
Wine box ceremony
A couple or family choose a bottle of wine (or champagne, or gin, or port or something soft…) and seal it in a beautiful box with a card or letter written to your partner (or child). The wine box is then opened on your first wedding anniversary (or 18th birthday etc) when the note is read and the wine is drunk. The tradition can then be repeated…
Other Ritual Ideas:
· Tree planting
· Footprint making
· Fingerprint tree pictures
· Gift giving
Feel free to give me a call to chat more about your ceremony and how we might include a symbolic ritual.
Bex 07455 793 493