Sand Ceremony
Thought to have originated in Hawaii, a Sand ceremony involves the couple as well as any family, extended family or friends the couple wish to include.
Each person has a different colour of sand which represents each of them as an indididual, unique person.
In turn, everyoen pours their sand into a vessel or vase, which creates a wonderful blend and layers of colour.
Using sand is significant as once its combined together with the other colours, it is impossible to later seperate.
Still being able to see each colour illustrates each person still retaining their identity but combined with the other sand it demonstrates unity and togetherness and an unbreakable bond.
This element is especially good to use with children as they love the hands-on part with the teeming and pouring and creating magical patterns. It's safe for them to do and a stunning keepsake for a family.
​
Hand Fasting
Thought to have derived from an ancient Celtic ritual, Hand Fasting symbolises the binding together of two people who are betrothed.
This ritual has become more popular especially in non-religious ceremonies. and is believed to be the meaning behind the commonly used term 'tying the knot'.
'So, what happens during a ceremony' I hear you ask..
The couple's hands are wrapped in ribbon or twine by the Celebrant, or by someone chosen by the couple (as in the picture to the left, where I am guiding the couple's son). Some symbolic words are read aloud, or music is played before the couple gentle pull away, leaving the symbolic 'knot' in the ribbons.
This is a beautiful addition to any Vows or Statements of love that a couple wish to exchange. It is a visual demonstration of them uniting, and moving forward as one.
I like to add the knotted ribbons to the keepsake pack that I provide for my couples.
Unity Candle
Wine Memory Box
A wine box ceremony is a way of creating a memory box for the couple to enjoy at sometime in the future, say their 1st Anniversary.
During the ceremony, guests are invited to take part by writing a short message on a card that is provided. This could be good luck wishes, messages of advice or even just a favourite memory.
Once all the cards are completed, they are placed in the box along with the wine and the box is then sealed.
The couple decide upon when in the future they will re-open the box. When that time arrives the box is opened and the couple enjoy the wine* whilst reading all the wonderful messages from their guests, and re-living their magical day.
*Not a wine drinker ... why not have Whiskey.. Port or Tequila!!
*Not an alcohol drinker... what about a box of tea bags
Ring Warming
A ring warming ceremony is another opportunity for family and friends to be directly included in a ceremomy.
The celebrant introduces the meaning of the ritual and invites guests to participate, on behalf of the couple.
It is explained that the rings will be are passed from guest to guest, with each person holding them in their hands for a few seconds 'warming' them with positive thoughts of happiness, good health and eternal wellbeing.
The ceremony can be held at the start of the wedding ceremony or, as the ceremony continues; times so the rings arrive back with the best man in time for the Ring Exchange.
I like to provide a small bag, matching the wedding colours that the rings can be passed around in and then include it in the keepsake pack afterwards.
It also provides the opportunity for a littke joke 'theres a tracker in there...' or 'the groomesman has his running shoes on' blah blah!
The ritual of lighting candles has played a part in many types ceremonies, for many different reasons and for centuries.
The flame represents an eternal flame and the emotional attachment that one person each has for another.
The couple each have a candle which is lit, and then represents their own identity, pesonality and uniqueness.
They each light a third 'Unity' candle with the flame from their own candle, signifying the coming together as one but whilst retaining their own identity.
This ritual is popular with families uniting 2 families together, as well as with families wanting to show strength and togetherness by sharing the ceremony with children and step children.
As naked flames are involved in this ceremony it is probably better suited to older children or ones that are closely supervised.