Unique Unity Ceremony Ideas
Unforgettable & meaningful unity rituals to symbolize two lives coming together
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A unity ceremony is an optional ritual performed during a wedding ceremony that represents you and your future spouse becoming a union.
Many couples perform candle, sand pouring and wine union ceremonies — but if you’re looking for something that’s outside the box, we’ve put together a list of unique unity rituals we’ve seen over the years.
Make a wish.
Lantern festivals are rooted in ceremonies across Asia, but they’ve become part of Western weddings over the years. Couples typically make a wish for their future before releasing a lantern into the sky. Make sure your venue allows sky lanterns as they are considered fire hazards in many parts of the country.
A bold bonfire.
Lighting candles may be too simple for you. If you’re tying the knot outdoors and your venue allows it, start a bonfire. Build a fire pit and spark a fire to symbolize your love.
Anniversary capsule.
Design a personalized box that will hold love letters, your favorite wine or pictures of you and your future spouse. During your ceremony, place the items in the box and lock it up. You’ll open up the box on an anniversary of your choice.
Tree planting.
Place soil in two separate pots. During your unity ceremony, pour the soil around a sapling that is already halfway potted in a large container then water it together. The tree is symbolic of the growth your relationship will take throughout your marriage.
Ring warming.
This unity ceremony is perfect for small weddings, and involves your family and friends. Have your guests hold your rings in their hands as they silently make a wish or bless your unity before passing it on to the next guest. The last guest will pass it to your officiant before it’s placed on your ring fingers.
Take a shot or create a cocktail.
Choose two different types of alcohol (that will go well together) that you will pour into one glass. If you’re unsure what to mix, pour liquor in two shot glasses then throw it back in front of your wedding guests. This unity ceremony is perfect for couples who want to have a fun and laid-back wedding vibe.
Tree of life.
Place a piece of paper or wooden heart on each chair. Wedding guests will write well wishes for you and your future spouse then tie them to a tree that can be read by all during the reception. The messages make meaningful wedding souvenirs for you and your fiancé(e) to look back on over the years.
Love locks.
Buy heart-shaped padlocks with your initials on them to exchange during your ceremony, and lock them together or hang them somewhere during your honeymoon (you’ll be able to visit the locks each time you return to that spot). You may choose to read a poem or a love letter after exchanging and locking locks.
Written By Vows & Forever Founder and Veteran Journalist Maria Cid. V&F is a wedding vows & speech writing service that also specializes in speech coaching and wedding timeline coordination.
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