Let’s Talk About Unity

Staci Dabney Photography

Unity ceremonies are one of the most common wedding traditions. These ceremonies are symbolic of the union of ‘two becoming one’ in marriage. 

Have you ever seen those love lock bridges like the ‘Pond des Arts’ in Italy and the Hohenzollern Bridge in Germany? Have you ever participated in one by etching your and your partners initials into the lock and throwing “away” the key to show a sign of lasting love that will be guaranteed forever? That kind of symbolism is what is often shown in many wedding ceremonies known as the unity. 

The unity portion is usually performed after the exchange of vows and rings and right before the kiss and pronouncement of marriage. During that time, make sure to give your DJ a song to play, anything instrumental creates a beautiful soothing moment. This is the time for you and your significant other to take a moment and breathe and love on each other. Maybe share a prayer or a chance to be grateful for each other. Sometimes, couples will have their other close family members to join them in prayer.

Aventi Photography

The candle ceremony adds another level of symbolism by including the parents. Typically when the mothers of both the bride and groom walk down the aisle, they then go and light two of the smaller candles. When the couple has then said their vows to one another, they will participate by, together with the already lit candles, light one candle. 

Trudy Lynn Photography

Unities that are most used by couples are the sand and candle. The sand can be two different colored sands being poured together in another jar, showing the meshing of two different persons’ union. The sand ceremony is most commonly used when couples have kids. Each family member has a different color of sand. Then when poured simultaneously, the colors mix to symbolize the uniting of not just two, but the whole family.

The Philgreens

In the Bible, Ecclesiastes 4:12 says this: “Though one may be overpowered, two can defend themselves. A cord of three strands not quickly broken.” This verse has made a great idea for a wedding unity. By having three ropes pulled together to form a cross shape, the couple can braid together the ropes. 

KLT Photography

You can also personalize your unity. A couple that got married in May 2021 at Berry Acres chose to have a plant and pour dirt into the pot together. Then in the years to come they can literally watch their love grow. Etsy is a great website to get some creative ideas for all points in your wedding but also the unity! Make it something special to you and your partner. An alcohol shot ski, the unity heart, family puzzle, love locks are all unique options to incorporate into your wedding ceremony.

More modern weddings are choosing to forego common traditions. In order to keep the ceremony short, you may choose to negate this portion. 

An important thing is to incorporate something that is meaningful for you and your partner and can match the style you are going for. 

Beau Vaughn Photography

Others to mention - branding, unity brand, communion, hand fasting, wine & love letter time capsule, tying of a knot