Unity Ceremonies
What are unity ceremonies?
Unity ceremonies are additional, symbolic rituals which can be included within any ceremony. Most symbolise the joining together of two; merging those two separate things to make a new combined element.
There isn’t any specific way in which these elements can be used; they are all adaptable to your requirements and can include other people.
These are just a few of the most popularly requested elements for unity ceremonies with a simple explanation of each one.
Rum/gin/beer blending ceremony
Two different flavoured rums/gins/beers are blended together to make a combined one representative of two similar yet different combinations coming together to create a third exclusive mix.
Chocolate ceremonies
For those lovers of chocolate this unity ceremony symbolises your commitment to each other through the inclusion of various forms of and variations of chocolate.
Tea blending ceremony
Chosen teas are blended together and sampled in a unique mix representative of your relationship. The blended tea can be given as favours to guests.
Anniversary box
Special items of choice are placed into a chosen box which is kept until a designated date then opened. Letters are written to each other and placed into the box.
Passing of the wedding bands
Also referred to as blessings or warming of the wedding bands, this element involves all present at the ceremony. Your wedding rings are passed around your guests in a box, bag or in any container of your choice and guests are invited to give your wedding rings a positive thought of well-wishing for a happy future for your union.
Unity candle
Individual candles are lit which are representative of the bride(s) and groom(s). Together you light a larger, personalised candle by merging the two flames together to make a new flame. This can include family members if required.
Handfasting
Possibly the oldest documented wedding custom and used in religious, spiritual and non-religious weddings. Handfasting is the binding together of your hands accompanied by promises made to each other. Favoured by many couples including Viking/Norse, Pagan, fantasy, festival and Goth ceremonies, handfasting can include family members or friends. More information on handfasting can be found here.
Jumping the broom
An old Pagan custom involving the jumping over a besom which symbolises many things, including leaving behind the past to embrace the future.
Oathing ceremonies
Oathing ceremonies have been a wedding ritual for centuries. There are so many different things which can be used and said during an oathing ceremony. The most widely used ones involve stones, swords or the exchange of symbols and charms.
Arm ring ceremonies
Predominantly used as part of a Viking wedding ceremony, the giving and receiving of an arm ring is a Viking custom. It wasn’t just finger rings which were exchanged, arm rings were given, worn and sworn upon in acknowledgement of solemn oaths and commitments.
Mead ceremony
Mead is one of the oldest recognised alcoholic drinks and the mead ceremony pays homage to the old customs associated with Pagan ways. This is a popular choice for Viking/Norse themed ceremonies. Drinking horns which can be kept are supplied with this element if required.
There are many more available, and when discussing your ceremony, we can discuss your choices. If you prefer, together we can create a custom unity ceremony, ensuring your ceremony really is fully personalised to your requirements.
