When you and your Officiant are preparing the perfect ceremony together there are many ways to make it even more special. One simple yet effective way for adding special to your ceremony is to include rituals.

Rituals

Let’s talk about Rituals. I agree, the word ‘ritual’ can sound kind of ominous at first. Rituals are ceremonies within your ceremony which highlight the love and unity which your wedding represents. Love and Unity are at the core of every wedding. Rituals can be incorporated to demonstrate not only the love and unity the two of you are showing, but also to show other important people in your lives how important they are to you. Here are some ideas;

Unity Candle

The Unity Candle; a trusted and popular ritual. Your individual candles light one candle. In many cultures the mothers of the Bride and Groom light your candles. If you are blending families, perhaps invite the children to participate as well. This makes a powerful statement to them and your guests about the value of the children in this new marriage. A word of caution; live flames can be problematic in an outdoor ceremony. Battery powered candles can be substituted.

Rose Ceremonies

The Rose Ceremony has several versions. You can exchange roses with each other as your first gifts as a married couple. The Officiant can also give each of you your first gift as a married couple, which can then be exchanged with each other. The couple might choose to present their parents with red roses to symbolize your love for them.

Sand Ceremony

Sand Ceremony. Another traditional favorite which can be done by just the two of you. You may also consider including parents or children for a blended family. The possibilities are endless. After the wedding you can preserve the “sand art” to display at home for years to come.

Presenting Gifts

Presenting small but meaningful gifts to parents, children or other important family members can be a touching ritual.

Involving guests

If you want to incorporate all of your guests in your ceremony rather than just being spectators, a “Ring Warming” ceremony can be incorporated. Your rings are secured to a pillow and passed among the guests to bless them with love. Having someone keep track of the

rings and get them back to the front in time for exchanging is a good idea.

Hand Fasting

Hand Fasting. After your vows are exchanged the Officiant, or even the parents, loosely bind your hands to display your joining. The is also the root of the phrase “tying the knot.”

These are just some idea that are simple yet beautiful ways to display your oneness, incorporate important people in your ceremony and even include your guests.

Including your guests

Over the years I have seen and heard of many other ways to add special to your ceremony. You are a unique couple. Feel free to consider displaying your unity and inviting friends and family to participate by looking at your own hobbies, favorite TV shows or movies.

I would love to work with you finding ways to add special to your ceremony because;

It’s All Love.

Rev Brian