There is no recorded history of when unity candles were first
used in wedding ceremonies, but its use gained popularity in the mid to
late 20th century. The unity candle was first used in wedding ceremonies when
the bride and groom are of different religions, where the candle is
symbolic of the unification of the bride and groom despite religious
differences. In modern wedding ceremonies, it can also be symbolic of
the bride and groom family's joining together in unity to become one
family. Alternatively, some couples may use it to symbolize their love
and commitment to each other, as their two lives become one.
A
unity candle is a larger candle with a wide diameter, that is often
decorated to match a wedding theme, or personalized with the names of
the bride and groom. A complete set includes two tapers (or smaller
candles) and a base for the unity candle.
Including the use of a unity candle during a wedding ceremony is simple, however you should talk to the person officiating your vows about it beforehand. Many religions do not allow the inclusion of a unity candle during the marriage sacrament. This is commonly the case with Christian religions, as the marriage ceremonies in Christian churches use their own symbolism.
To use a unity candle for your ceremony, first have the candle with base arranged on a table in front of the alter or space where the ceremony will be conducted. Depending on the base, the tapers should also be arranged on the tables. All candles should be unlit. At the beginning of wedding ceremony, a representative from both the bride and groom's side of the family should approach the table to each light one of the tapers. Later in the ceremony, often after the exchanging of rings and vows, the bride and groom will light the unity candle together, each using their family's respective tapers.
Over time, this tradition has taken on many other forms. Alternatively, the candle can be used to represent a blended family. This is typical when both the bride and groom have prior marriages and children, and they want to show the unity in their new combined family. In this case, the base candle is often personalized with the names of the bride and groom and each of their children. Another use of candles during a wedding ceremony is a memorial candle. This is used to symbolize the spirit of family members of the bride and groom who have passed on, but are remembered.
A
unity candle is a larger candle with a wide diameter, that is often
decorated to match a wedding theme, or personalized with the names of
the bride and groom. A complete set includes two tapers (or smaller
candles) and a base for the unity candle.Including the use of a unity candle during a wedding ceremony is simple, however you should talk to the person officiating your vows about it beforehand. Many religions do not allow the inclusion of a unity candle during the marriage sacrament. This is commonly the case with Christian religions, as the marriage ceremonies in Christian churches use their own symbolism.
To use a unity candle for your ceremony, first have the candle with base arranged on a table in front of the alter or space where the ceremony will be conducted. Depending on the base, the tapers should also be arranged on the tables. All candles should be unlit. At the beginning of wedding ceremony, a representative from both the bride and groom's side of the family should approach the table to each light one of the tapers. Later in the ceremony, often after the exchanging of rings and vows, the bride and groom will light the unity candle together, each using their family's respective tapers.
Over time, this tradition has taken on many other forms. Alternatively, the candle can be used to represent a blended family. This is typical when both the bride and groom have prior marriages and children, and they want to show the unity in their new combined family. In this case, the base candle is often personalized with the names of the bride and groom and each of their children. Another use of candles during a wedding ceremony is a memorial candle. This is used to symbolize the spirit of family members of the bride and groom who have passed on, but are remembered.
Be sure to visit Wedding Staples if you are looking for a unity candle to use in your wedding ceremony. Wedding Staples is a one-stop-shop for all your wedding planning needs. Wedding Staples offers a wide selection of unity candles, memorial candles, and other accessories to make your wedding day special. Browse our selection today!
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