Symbolic Actions
Handfasting
Handfasting is an ancient ritual with a rich heritage. The couple join hands while the celebrant binds them with ribbon or cord. The ceremony symbolises the binding of two lives.
Different strands can be used to symbolise elements of the relationship. Family members and friends can add strands too. The ribbon or cord is arranged in such a way that when the couple release their hands, they tie a knot – hence the phrase ‘tying the knot!’ The handfasting ribbon or cord can be kept as an attractive keepsake.
Photo Credit: Dan Beale
Unity Candle Ceremony
In a unity candle ceremony, the couple light individual candles which they bring together to light a single candle.
The separate candles represent the couple’s individual lives, and the unity candle represents their life together. The flames of the candles represent the love, light and warmth that the couple bring to each other.
Children and other family members can also be involved, and multi-wick candles can be used. The unity candle can be relit on special occasions such as anniversaries and birthdays.
Sand Ceremony
In a sand ceremony, different colours of sand are combined in layers in a clear jar or bottle. Each partner takes turns to add layers, to create a multi-layered coloured pattern.
The different colours symbolise each person. Once the grains of sand are combined, they cannot be separated.
Children and other family members can take part and add their own colours, creating an attractive keepsake representing their new family.
Photo: Sonia Oliver
Jumping The Broom
There are several stories about the origins of jumping the broom. When Romani couples in Wales eloped, they would "jump the broom", a branch of flowering common broom, or a besom made of broom.
Jumping the broom also has origins in Western Africa and has a long tradition of being used in African-American weddings.
Jumping the broom can represent a wish for ‘a happy hearth’ and home. It’s a symbol of protection, transition, unity, and resilience. It can represent a ‘leap of faith’ and can add a bit of fun, daring and drama!
Photo: Sonia Oliver
The Oathing Stone
The oathing stone ceremony is a traditional Scottish wedding ritual that is deep in symbolism. Before the ceremony, the couple select a special stone, often from a meaningful place that they’ve visited together such as a beach or a mountain. The stone could be engraved or painted, for example with their names and ceremony date.
During the ceremony, the couple place their hands on the stone while exchanging their vows, symbolising the permanence of their promises and their ‘grounding’ to the earth.
Guests can also participate: for example they could each have a smaller stone which they hold during the ceremony, and make a wish for the couple while they are exchanging their vows.
After the ceremony, the stone is often kept as a keepsake in the couple’s home or garden. Alternatively, it can be thrown into a body of water to symbolise the beginning of the new journey.
Photo: Scottish Humanist Society
The Quaich or Loving Cup
The quaich (pronounced ‘quake’) is a tradition from the Scottish Highlands.A quaich is a two-handled shallow drinking cup or bowl, usually made from silver or pewter, but sometimes glass or wood. The quaich is a traditional symbol of love and friendship. As part of a wedding ceremony, the quaich symbolises partnership and sharing, and the joining of two families. The couple share a toast, traditionally whisky or brandy, but anything goes. Baileys, tequila, pineapple juice– whatever takes your fancy!
Photo: National Trust Scotland
The Cake and Mead Ceremony
The cake and mead ceremony is a traditional Celtic or Pagan ritual. It often follows a handfasting but can be used after any ceremony.
The couple serve cake and a drink to their guests to welcome them to the wedding reception or breakfast. (it doesn't have to be mead - it could be beer, wine, cider or even a special cocktail!) The ceremony can also take place later in the day, after the traditional cake cutting.
Serving their guests in this way symbolises the couple's first shared act of hospitality and is a lovely way to engage with guests and show gratitude.. The couple might use words like "May you never be hungry" and "May you never be thirsty", symbolising nourishment and companionship.
Photo: Lyme Bay Winery
Create your own!
Remember what I said about no rules?
You can add whatever you like to your ceremony!
Now's the time to celebrate your passions - art, sport, baking, dancing, gaming, music, quizzing, literature, gardening, wine, cocktails, whatever floats your boat!
So let's get creative and think about what you both love (apart from each other, obviously!)
Together we can craft something fun, meaningful and memorable that celebrates your togetherness and screams YOU!
Photo: Jennifer Peel