The Unity Candle: A Symbol Of Two Becoming One

The unity candle ceremony is a wedding ritual that symbolises the joining of two people and their families. During the ceremony, each member of the couple lights a taper candle and simultaneously lights a larger candle, representing the union of the couple and their families. The ceremony is often accompanied by music or a poem and is usually led by an officiant who explains the symbolism of the ritual. The unity candle ceremony is a modern tradition that is popular across different religions and beliefs and is often incorporated into both religious and non-religious ceremonies.

Unity candle ceremony script

The unity candle ceremony is a popular ritual at weddings, symbolising the joining of two people and two families. It is a simple but meaningful act that can be incorporated into both religious and non-religious ceremonies.

Officiant (to guests):

Welcome everyone. Today, we are gathered to celebrate the love that [bride/groom] and [bride/groom] have for one another. We are here to show our appreciation and support for their decision to join their lives in marriage.

Declaration of Intent

Officiant (to couple):

[Bride/groom] and [bride/groom], please join hands and look at each other as you remember this moment. Do you, [bride/groom], take [bride/groom] to be your lawfully joined partner? And do you, [bride/groom], take [bride/groom] to be your lawfully joined partner?

Exchange of Vows

Officiant (to couple):

If you are willing to accept the commitments and responsibilities of marriage, please join hands and promise your love and lives to one another. You may now exchange your wedding vows and rings as a symbol of your commitment and love for one another.

Officiant (to guests):

We will now begin the lighting of the unity candle. This ritual symbolises the union of [bride] and [groom] and the creation of their blended family. The two taper candles represent each individual, and the centre candle will be lit to represent their union and the bridging of their two families.

Explanation of Ritual

Officiant (to couple):

[Bride] and [groom], the two outside candles burning here reflect your lives and your individuality at this moment. Each light is distinct and able to dance and move in its own direction. You are two unique individuals, and the same Creator who granted you your uniqueness is now bringing you together in marriage. As you light the unity candle, your two flames will merge into one, symbolising the joining of your lives and your commitment to one another.

Lighting of Unity Candle

Officiant (to couple):

[Bride] and [groom], please light the two taper candles. Now, together, lift your candles and ignite the larger centre candle.

Closing the Candle Ceremony

Officiant (to couple and guests):

As the unity candle is lit, we ask that you see the brightness of the flame as a symbol of the radiance that your own lives contribute to this new family. As this single light cannot be divided, neither shall your lives be separated, but instead will remain united in your love.

Officiant (to couple):

[Bride] and [groom], we have heard your vow to marry and share your lives. It is my honour and pleasure to now pronounce you husband and wife. You may kiss!

Congratulations!

Unity candle ceremony tips

Choose who will participate

The unity candle ceremony can be as intimate or as inclusive as you like. While the lighting of the unity candle is usually reserved for the couple, some couples like to add participation from their friends and family or their best man and maid of honour by having them light the two taper candles.

Secure your candles

You will need three candles for the ceremony: two taper candles and one larger pillar candle. You can buy unity candle sets online or from a wedding retailer, or you can make your own. Don't forget to also buy candle holders and a lighter or matches.

Prepare your ceremony

If your ceremony is outdoors, you will need to protect the candles from the wind. Glass coverings or hurricane lamps can be used to shield the candles from the breeze. If you are using a candle inside a lantern, make sure the wick is deep inside so it doesn't blow out.

Light the taper candles

Before the unity candle is lit, the taper candles must be lit. This is usually done by the mothers of the couple, but can also be done by the couple themselves or another friend or family member.

Have the officiant read a script

The officiant will then explain the symbolism of the ritual to the guests and may invite them to take part in the ceremony.

Light the unity candle

The couple will then light the unity candle together from their individual taper candles.

Blow out the taper candles

After the unity candle is lit, the couple will blow out their taper candles, symbolising their unity and the start of their journey as a married couple.

Keep your candles

You may want to keep the candles as a souvenir. Ask a friend or family member to put out the flame and wrap the candles up for safekeeping after the ceremony.

The cost of a unity candle kit

The unity candle ceremony is a modern wedding tradition that symbolises the joining of two families and the merging of two people. During the ceremony, the couple each lights a taper candle and simultaneously lights a "unity candle".

However, if you're crafty, you can save money by creating your own unity candle kit. All you need are three candles: two smaller taper candles and one larger pillar candle. You may also want to purchase candle holders and a long-reach lighter. You can buy a simple candle or get creative and match the design and colour of the candles to your wedding theme.

If you're looking for a unique way to display your candles, consider purchasing a candle stand or displaying them on a table with flowers. Just keep in mind that these additional elements will increase the overall cost.

• Irenare 3 Unity Candles with Candle Holder: $34.15
• Frienda Unity Candles for Wedding Ceremony Set: $26.99
• Wedding Accessories Basic White Unity Candles, Set of 3: $15-$15.99
• Unity Candles for Wedding - Wedding Candle Set with 1 Pillar Candle and 2 Taper Candles: $28.99
• 3 Pcs Rustic Unity Candles for Wedding Ceremony Set: $28.99
• CB Church Supply Hand Crafted Wedding Candle Set by Will & Baumer, Set of 3: $31.48
• Layhit Unity Wedding Candles Ceremony Set with Glass Candlesticks Holders: $34
• Unity Candles for Wedding Ceremony Set with Holder: $35
• Unity Candle Set for Wedding - Wedding Unity Set for Reception and Ceremony - Candle Sets - 6 Inch Pillar and 2 10 Inch Tapers-White: $35
• MTLEE 3 Unity Wedding Candles Set White Catholic Candles Rustic Baptism Pillar Taper Candles: $13.99
• Unity Candles for Wedding Ceremony Set - 3 Pcs 6" Pillar & 2 10" Tapers Candles - Unity Decorative Wedding Candle White Ceremonial Candles - Wedding Table Centerpiece - Velas Decorativas para Boda: $34.49
• Unity Candle Set for Wedding - Wedding Unity Set for Reception and Ceremony - Candle Sets - 6 Inch Pillar and 2 10 Inch Tapers-Royal Blue: $33.18
• MTLEE 3 Unity Candles with Candle Holder for Wedding Ceremony Wedding Accessories for Reception Ceremony Decorative Wooden Candle Holder Pillar Candle for Formal Events Wedding Church Holiday Decor: $24.99
• Unity Candle Holder - Unity Candles Stand for Wedding Ceremony Set - Pillar Taper Candle Holders for Weddings Centerpiece Decoration, Bridal Shower (Candles not Included): $17.89
• Unity Candle Set for Wedding - Wedding Unity Set for Reception and Ceremony - Candle Sets - 6 Inch Pillar and 2 10 Inch Tapers-Royal Violet: $39.88
• Unity Candles for Wedding Ceremony Set, Wedding Accessories for Reception Ceremony - Wedding Gifts - Candle Sets - 5.5 Inch Pillar and Two 9.8 Inch Tapers: $67.86
• Unity Candle Set for Wedding - Wedding Unity Set for Reception and Ceremony - Candle Sets - 6 Inch Pillar and 2 10 Inch Tapers-Turquoise: $35.88

The history of fire in rituals

Fire has been an important part of human culture since the Lower Paleolithic, with religious or animist notions connected to fire reaching back to early prehuman times. Fire rituals are present in almost every religion and culture, from ancient times to the present day.

Fire is often seen as a force of destruction, but it also has the power to cleanse, heal, and purify. In many cultures, fire is used to connect to the spiritual realm, and it is believed to be a powerful purifying element, especially for any type of negative karma. Fire rituals are also used to ward off bad spirits, and to mark rites of passage and key life events.

In Hindu weddings, a sacred fire is lit to evoke Agni, the fire god, to bear witness to the ceremony. The fire is made from ghee and wooden wicks, and is believed to cleanse the union of all evil eyes and words, building the marriage on purity and transparency. The couple then walks around the fire, agreeing to the priest's blessings for a strong marriage.

In modern weddings of varying religions and beliefs, a unity candle ceremony is often performed to symbolise the union of the couple and the creation of a blended family. During the ceremony, each member of the couple lights a taper candle and simultaneously lights a larger candle. The flame that burns represents the unity of the two partners.

Fire rituals are also present in the following religions and cultures:

• Zoroastrianism
• Albanian mythology
• Graeco-Roman tradition
• Celtic mythology
• Slavic paganism
• Hebrew Bible narratives
• Christianity
• Japanese mythology
• Aboriginal cultures
• Buddhism
• Native American cultures

Unity candle ceremony alternatives

Unity candle ceremonies are a common ritual at weddings, but they are not the only option for couples looking to symbolise their union. Here are some alternatives:

Sand Ceremony

One of the most popular alternatives to a unity candle ceremony is a sand ceremony. Instead of candles, the couple pours different colours of sand into a vase, shadow box, or hourglass. The individual colours of sand represent the couple as individuals, coming together to form a new unit.

Unity in Glass

Instead of pouring sand, couples can pour glass crystals of various colours into a container. After the wedding, the crystals are sent to a glass-blowing studio, where an artist uses them to create a unique sculpture, vase, or bowl.

Paint Ceremony

Couples can each bring a small jar of paint in different colours and pour them together onto a canvas. The paint colours mix and create a modern-art representation of their marriage.

Unity Sandwich

Each layer of the sandwich represents a different part of marriage. For example, the bread can represent the foundation, the cheese the families coming together, and the lettuce their shared dreams. The couple puts the sandwich together and takes a bite!

Planting a Tree

This nature-inspired idea involves the couple adding soil from their hometowns to a pot and planting a tree sapling together. Like the tree, their relationship will need love and care to grow and bloom.

Wine or Beer Pouring

The couple chooses two different but compatible wines and pours them into a glass to create a perfect blend, which they then drink together. This can also be done with beer or tea for a dry wedding.

Frequently asked questions