Once you have decided that you would like a celebrant led wedding you will discover that your ceremony is only limited by your imagination! As opposed to the traditional style wedding template you will have the ability to mix and match all sorts of traditions, both ancient and modern, to express exactly what you want to say about your union. There are many different kinds of Unity Ritual and more are appearing online each year; all are able to capture and connect your own unique story and offer something special to symbolise the joining of two lives and even the coming together of two families.
Things to consider when choosing which ritual to have
It should be easy to perform
A Unity Ritual should be able to be performed easily in front of your guests. The more complicated the activity, the more likely it is that something may go wrong or mistakes could be made. Should you decide to plan something more complex for your ritual, such as mixing a cocktail, tying a knot, making a sandwich or planting a tree, it's a good idea to build your confidence about performing it at your ceremony. by putting in some practice before your big day.
It should have a distinct beginning & end
Rituals are like good stories; they need to have a distinct beginning and end. Including a ritual which may be fun and original to do but leaves your guests confused as to the relevance of why it's been included in your ceremony is something which should be avoided!
The best unity rituals are those which clearly show your feelings and emotions for each other. Handfasting or performing a Sand Ceremony ritual for example, where the tying of a knot or the mixing of sand symbolise the coming together of you as a couple, are very popular as they reflect the joining and commitment of two individuals through the act of marriage. The best unity activities are those which would be impossible or very difficult to reverse.
The ritual should suit you as a couple
The activity which you choose for your Unity Ritual should be a natural expression of you as a couple and your feelings for one another. So, take some time to consider your shared hobbies and interests, your occupations and your passions when deciding on which ritual is the right one for you both.
Is your chosen activity suitable for your venue?
When you are planning a ritual for your ceremony it is important to consider the space available at your venue. There will be some activities which will be difficult or even impossible in certain locations! For example it would be unwise to attempt a Unity Candle ritual outdoors as even the smallest breeze will extinguish a flame! Some ritual elements can be messy, for example a painting ritual or planting a tree. Wine and chocolate or any other foods could cause marks or stains on delicate clothing or soft furnishings.
It should be interesting to watch
The Unity Ritual which you choose to perform in your ceremony should be interesting for your guests to watch and should be able to be observed from a distance. Your family and friends want to feel involved in your ceremony as much as possible and the experience will be much more engaging for them if they are able to see clearly! Any props you use should be large enough to see and easily recognisable. Handfasting, painting a canvas or planting a tree are all great examples of rituals which make terrific theatre.
It should contain symbols & represent joining & acting together in harmony
There are two types of symbol which are used in ritual - symbolic objects and symbolic actions. When we think of the wedding ceremony, we think of the wedding ring, the 'unbroken circle - a symbol of never-ending love'. The objects you choose to use in your Unity Ritual need to have symbolic meaning and represent positive qualities - a knot represents the strong bonds between a couple and a tree represents life. When you are thinking of the symbolic action within the ritual look closely at what is taking place and how it represents both the joining and commitment for you as a couple. An example of both of these elements can be found in a Sand ceremony where coloured sands are poured into a transparent container where they mix together and cannot be returned to their original state.
The ritual where you would prepare and make a sandwich as a couple demonstrates that you are adding different ingredients to create a greater whole and more effective working together than alone.
Your ritual should be ethically & environmentally responsible
Any ritual regardless of what activity is taking place should be performed with care and responsibility and should never harm the environment or damage the venue where the ceremony is being held. Your chosen ritual should demonstrate the values you as a couple feel are important. The potential for any negative impact which may follow the performance of your activity should always be carefully assessed beforehand.
The decline of balloon or Chinese lantern releases at ceremonies are prime examples of clients being more responsible and mindful of these factors.
IT should be FUN!!
Weddings are a cause for true celebration and don't have to be a solemn or serious occasion as they have been in the past. Remember, the more you find reasons to laugh together on your wedding day the happier your memories of it will be. You and your guests should enjoy the day from start to finish and it should be unforgettable for all the right reasons! You are only limited by your imagination! Have a wonderful time!
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