Unity Candles
Unity candles have become very popular elements of weddings. In fact, some people even consider these as essential aspects of the wedding ceremony. But in reality, unity candles do not hold any religious meaning.
There are different reasons why people incorporate the use of unity candles during their weddings. Some want to make the affair more solemn, while others want to add a bit more romance into it. Whatever their reasons are, a unity candle definitely makes the occasion extra special.
Most of us probably think that the history of unity candles are part of some rich religious tradition that dates back to ancient times. Or the cynics are likely to think that these are just some candle makers’ marketing scheme. The unity candle’s exact evolution is not certain. However, it is believed to have evolved not less than 30 years ago. Thus, the 60’s generation is the one responsible for this popular custom.
When we speak about unity candles, we are actually talking about three candles. The two tapered candles signify the two persons who are going to be united in marriage. A single pillar candle is also lit as a symbol of the union of these two persons. Sometimes, all three candles are made to stand on a unity candle dish or a unity candle holder. Although some people prefer to house the candles in three separate candle holders with the pillar in the middle and the two tapered ones flanking it.
Since the existence of unity candles does not have any religious connotations, there are really no specific rules or guidelines on how their lighting should be done. Therefore, people can make and tailor their own traditions to make it complement the wedding ceremony.
Most of the times though, the lighting of the unity candles are done right after the couple has exchanged wedding rings, but just before the conclusion of the ceremony. Some wedding ceremonies perform variations in the lighting of unity candles. For example, before the start of the ceremony, the tapered candles are lit and are supposed to stay lit until the end of the wedding rites.
Those who are tasked to light the candles vary in different wedding rituals. Sometimes the couple lights the candles themselves. Other times, the couple’s parents do the honor of lighting the unity candles. And because there is no strict procedure to follow, everyone can actually come up with their own guidelines.
If you want your unity candles to be very personal, you can order a personalized unity candle instead of just buying those that are readily available on the shelves. You can have your names or the date of the wedding printed on the candles. You can even add a special poem or quote to make it more personal.
Like other candles in the market, there are several designs, colors, and shapes to choose from. You can customize them too and add whatever accessories you wish your unity candles to have and make it complement the rest of your wedding décor.
Marriage is a lifelong commitment and a huge part of everyone’s life. Unity candles emphasized the magnitude of the occasion. Thus, they are used to create a great impact and to remind the couple and everyone else in attendance that marriage is a serious business.
Most people may not have any value for their unity candles after the ceremony, but these can actually have some more significance in the couple’s lives. Since these candles played an important role in the wedding rites, the couple can relive that moment by lighting the candles on their other special occasions such as anniversaries or their child’s birth.