Symbolic rituals have been used in ceremony for centuries. Handfasting is an ancient Celtic tradition, dating as far back as 7000 B.C and the unity candle has been in use since at least the second half of the twentieth century.
But, have you heard about some of the more out of the ordinary rituals that are used? Read on for some more unusual options….
1) WINE CEREMONY
A wine ceremony symbolises the blending of two lives (and two families!). Some couples drink wine from the same cup whilst others pour two types of wine into one glass and share. The “blending” is symbolic of the union and new life the couple will create together.
2) LASSO CEREMONY
A traditional Mexican, Filipino and Spanish ritual. After a couple recite their vows, the celebrant, a parent or another person of the couples choosing drapes a rope across the couple’s shoulders in the form of a figure eight. This represents the couple’s unity.
3) THE GATHER ROUND
This one is perfect for smaller weddings where couple’s want to include their guests.
Guests form a circle around the couple for the duration of the ceremony. Guests can be asked to participate and share their thoughts on the couple.
4) PASSING OF THE RINGS
Another great way of including guests in the ceremony! One wedding ring is passed down one side of the aisle and the other ring on the other side. Each guest bestows their blessings and positive thoughts toward the marriage.
5) WATER CLEANSE
OK this is one for those with a foot fetish (sorry, couldn’t resist!) The couple wash one another’s feet, which symbolises the release of any past emotional blocks, so the couple can enter the marriage with open hearts.
There are so many creative and memorable ways to include symbolic rituals into a ceremony. As long as the ritual used carries meaning and allows the couple to feel connected, it is the perfect ritual for them.
