What Is a Unity Candle Ceremony?

A unity candle ceremony, part of a traditional wedding ceremony, is intended to symbolize the joining of the bride and groom and their families.

Features

Three candles are used in a unity candle ceremony. One is the unity candle--a large pillar--and the others are slim taper candles. At the beginning of the wedding ceremony, one taper candle is lit by the groom's mother and one by the mother of the bride. After the vows, the bride and groom use these two candles to light the unity candle.

Usage

Unity candle ceremonies, which have no religious meaning, are used in many types of weddings, including civil, interfaith and Christian. The lighting of the candles represents the growth of a loving relationship.

Variations

Some couples choose other family members, others than their mothers, to light the taper candles. Couples with children sometimes include extra taper candles for them to light.

Future

Couples can save the unity candle and relight it every year on their wedding anniversary.

References

• Weddings Galore: Unity Candle Ceremony
• Celebrate Intimate Weddings: Unity Candle Ceremony