Symbolic Elements

Handfasting

The handfasting ceremony has its roots in ancient Celtic tradition, symbolizing the binding together of two people (and is the origin of the phrase “tying the knot”).

Originally this is the historical term for a wedding or betrothal. In this beautiful ceremony, the hands and arms of the couple are tied together with ribbons, cord or twine, each symbolising a special good wish or promise. The couple can make it symbolic to each other or invite family members to help them in tying the knot.

​

WARMING OF RINGS

The couple’s rings are placed in a secured little pouch, on a small pillow or a ring box. They are then passed around friends and family to bless, give loving thoughts, good wishes and to charge them with positivity to start you on your way to married life

​

LIGHTING A UNITY CANDLE

​

Lighting a candle has been part of important ceremonies since ancient times. In weddings it symbolises a couple joining in marriage as well as the joining of two families. A couple of family members light small candles then the couple will use those candles to light a single large candle. Often it is the mothers of the couple who do this but you could also ask friends or different members of the family to take part.

​

SAND CEREMONY

​

A fun symbolic act that is great for any children of the couple or significant family members. Different coloured layers of sand (representing each person) are carefully poured on top of each other in a glass bottle or similar symbolising the blending of the new family.

​

LIGHTING A REMEMBRANCE CANDLE

​

A lovely way of remembering a family member or friend who has passed away. The bride and/or groom light the candle next to a framed photo, by saying a few words if they wish, to include this person into the ceremony. This is particularly healing if it is a recent bereavement.

​