Unity Candle Ceremony
The Unity Candle Ceremony consists of three candles. One pillar candle in the center and two taper candles, one on each side of the pillar. This ceremony symbolizes the union of two lives into one. There are variations of the ceremony, the mothers can light the side candles or any designated member of the wedding party. The candles can be lit after they walk down the isle or during the ceremony. Some couples keep the candles and re-light them on their anniversary.
Sand Ceremony
The "Sand Ceremony" is an alternative to the Unity Candle. The bride and groom are each given a bottle that holds their two different colors. As the bride and groom pour their sand together into the Unity Vase, their individuality is uniquely shared as one entity, as the colors of sand can never again be separated.
The Blessing of the Rings
The wedding ring is the visible sign of an inward bond which unites two loyal hearts in endless love. The rings are the seal of the vows and symbolize living together in unity, love and happiness.
Breaking of the Glass
The breaking of the glass is reserved for Jewish ceremonies. However, it is a beautiful ending to any wedding.
Children Services
There are many couples that are remarrying and want to include their children in the ceremony. There are many was to do this. The Family Medallion Ceremony is one.
Flower Ceremony
This is a family/friends ceremony. Each designated person comes forward and places a different flower in a vase to create a garden of love.
Hands Ceremony
Recently this has become a favorite. It takes about five minutes to perform this ceremony. It can be used in place of traditional vows.
Honoring the Mothers
In this ceremony a brief reading is done and then the bride and groom present their mothers with a small gift (flowers usually).
Silent Blessing and Moment of Remembrance
This ceremony consists of a small blessing or reading honoring the deceased. Special people that the bride and groom want to remember that can not be with them to share this extraordinary moment.
Ribbon Ceremony/Handfasting
In the Celtic ceremony the hands of the bride and groom are tied together. Now the Officiant ties their hands loosely together and they remain that way for the rest of the ceremony.
Rose Ceremony
This is my personal favorite. The Rose Ceremony is the symbol of love. It is a very moving and beautiful ceremony.
Support from Families
The parents become part of the introduction of the vows. The Officiant may ask who brings this couple to be wed.
Wine or Water Ceremony
In this ceremony the couple share a cup of wine or water while the Officiant says a blessing and a reading.
Blessing to the Four Directions
People used to believe the human soul shared characteristics with all things celestial. This prayer service designates the four points on a compass with human virtues.
Jumping the Broom
There are many versions of this ritual. The couple jumps over a broom that can be elaborately decorated. The jumping of the broom is a symbol of the sweeping away of the old and welcoming the new, or a symbol of a new beginning.
Willow Tree Wedding Officiants are very flexible and can add any ceremony you would like, to make your wedding ceremony the way you want it.
Member of: National Association of Wedding Ministers
American Association of Wedding Officiants
Graduate of The Professional Wedding Officiant School
Graduating with Excellence
Willow Tree Wedding Officiants
Sylvia E. Smith & Catherine E. Haupt
304-562-0615 / 304-382-3671 / 304-395-6012
smithsylvia1@yahoo.com
