Creating Personalized Wedding Unity Candles: A Step-By-Step Guide

Unity candles are a popular addition to wedding ceremonies, symbolising the joining of two people in marriage. The ritual, which is thought to have become popular in the second half of the 20th century, involves lighting a large candle using two smaller taper candles. The unity candle is often a pillar candle, while the two accompanying candles are tapers. Couples can choose to personalise their candles with engravings, colours, and designs. In this guide, we'll cover everything you need to know about making wedding unity candles, from choosing the right candles to adding your own special touches.

Choosing the right candle

The unity candle is a candle used in a wedding ceremony to symbolise two people joining in marriage. The lighting of a unity candle is a relatively new custom, with the ritual becoming popular in the second half of the 20th century.

The unity candle ceremony typically involves each member of the couple taking a taper candle and simultaneously lighting a larger candle, known as the unity candle. This ceremony represents the union of the couple and the creation of a blended family.

When choosing the right unity candle for your wedding ceremony, there are a few things to consider:

• Aesthetic: Picking a unity candle that matches the overall aesthetic of your wedding will create a cohesive look and feel for your ceremony. For example, if you're having a beach wedding, you might choose a coral-coloured candle surrounded by seashells and pebbles. For a vintage-themed wedding, consider using a family heirloom candle passed down through the generations.
• Durability: While the aesthetic is important, it is also essential to prioritise durability. Choose a strong base or candle holder that fits your unity candle securely. You don't want your unity candle to topple over during the ceremony!
• Climate: If you're planning an outdoor wedding, consider the weather. Windy or rainy conditions can extinguish your flame, so it's a good idea to invest in hurricane glasses that cover your unity candle and protect the flame.
• Shopping options: When it comes to purchasing your unity candle, there are several online retailers to choose from, including Etsy, Zazzle, Amazon, and The Knot Shop. These sites offer a wide range of designs, customisation options, and price points to fit any budget. If you're short on time, you can also check your local craft stores, such as Michaels or Hobby Lobby, but the selection may be more limited.

By keeping these factors in mind, you'll be able to choose the perfect unity candle to symbolise your union and enhance the overall atmosphere of your wedding ceremony.

Selecting a candle holder

Durability

It is essential to select a candle holder with a strong base that can properly support the unity candle. Opt for a durable option to prevent any accidents during the ceremony.

Aesthetic

The candle holder should complement the overall aesthetic of the wedding. For example, a beach wedding could feature a coral-coloured candle holder adorned with seashells and pebbles. Vintage-themed weddings could incorporate a family heirloom candle holder passed down through generations.

Climate

If you're planning an outdoor wedding, consider the weather conditions. Windy or rainy weather may require the use of hurricane glasses or lamps to protect the candles from being extinguished. Choose a candle holder that can accommodate these protective coverings.

Size and Proportions

Ensure that the candle holder is appropriately sized for the unity candle and any accompanying taper candles. The holder should be sturdy and fit the candles securely.

Customisation

You may want to consider customising your candle holder to add a personal touch. Engraving the candle holder with your names, wedding date, or a meaningful quote can make it even more special.

Shopping Options

When shopping for a candle holder, online retailers like Etsy, Zazzle, and Amazon offer a wide range of options. These sites often provide customisation and various price points to fit any budget. Local craft stores like Michaels or Hobby Lobby may also have suitable candle holders, although the selection may be more limited.

Preparing the ceremony

The unity candle ceremony is a simple yet meaningful ritual that usually takes place after the exchange of vows. It involves lighting a large candle, known as the unity candle, using two smaller taper candles. This act symbolises the union of the couple and the joining of their two families.

To prepare for the ceremony, you will need to choose the right candles. Typically, the unity candle is a pillar candle, while the taper candles are thinner. You can opt for traditional white or ivory candles or personalise them with engravings, colours, or designs that match your wedding aesthetic. Consider purchasing candle holders, ribbons, and other accessories that complement your wedding theme.

In addition to the candles, you will need a table or platform to place them on during the ceremony. If your wedding is outdoors, it is crucial to shield the candles from the wind to prevent them from blowing out. Use hurricane lamps or hurricane glasses to cover the candles and protect the flames. Ensure the wicks are deep inside the coverings. Have a matchbook or lighter nearby in case relighting is necessary.

Before the ceremony, decide who will participate in the lighting of the candles. Traditionally, the mothers of the couple light the taper candles, but you may also choose to include other family members or friends. If you wish to involve them, they can light the tapers before the officiant begins the ceremony.

Finally, prepare a script for the officiant to read during the ceremony. This script should explain the symbolism of the ritual and the unity it represents. If you wish, you can add a meaningful song to be played during the lighting of the unity candle.

Lighting the candles

The unity candle ceremony is a simple yet meaningful ritual that usually takes place after the couple has exchanged their vows. It involves lighting a large pillar candle, known as the unity candle, using two smaller taper candles. This act symbolises the union of the couple and the joining of their two families.

To begin the ceremony, the couple's mothers, or another chosen family member, light the two taper candles. The couple then takes the lit tapers and simultaneously uses them to light the unity candle together. This action represents the merging of their two lives and families into one.

After lighting the unity candle, the couple then blows out the taper candles, leaving the unity candle burning for the remainder of the ceremony. This signifies that their two lives have been permanently united as one.

Finally, at the end of the ceremony, the couple traditionally blows out the unity candle together. This final act symbolises their unity and the start of their new life together as a married couple.

Blowing out the unity candle

There are two options for blowing out the unity candle. The first and most popular option is to blow out the candle together as a couple, after the wedding ceremony is over and the couple has made their exit. The wedding officiant or another wedding attendant will then blow out the candles and put them away as a keepsake for the couple. The second option is for the couple to blow out their individual taper candles after lighting the unity candle, representing that they will never be fully separated from each other again and now exist as one. This option is less popular, and it is important to ensure that guests know what to expect.

It is important to appoint someone to blow out the unity candle after the ceremony, such as the officiant or another wedding attendant, in case the couple forgets or is too caught up in the moment. The unity candle can be extinguished with water if a trick flame is used.

The unity candle ceremony is a powerful and meaningful ritual that adds symbolism and emotion to a wedding ceremony. It is a simple yet impactful way to represent the union of two individuals and their families, creating a lasting memory for the couple and their guests.

Frequently asked questions