How to Have a Family Circle in your Unity Candle Ceremony

The symbolism of a unity candle ceremony in your wedding is to visually show the joining of two people and by extension two families. This is a creative take on that idea that will include all the members of your family in an unique and special way.

Instructions

Difficulty: Easy

Things You’ll Need:

• Unity Candle of your choice
• Enough taper candles for all the members of your family who will participate in the ceremony
• Wax guards for the candles

How to Have a Family Circle in your Unity Candle Ceremony

1. The purpose behind this ceremony is to pass the light that will light your unity candle among all the members of your family to signify the joining of both families in your new union. So you can decide when looking at your guest list who you want to include and let them know what their role will be. If you have a very large family you may consider limiting the participants to parents, grandparents, and siblings. But bear in mind this is your ceremony so make it personal and special for you and your future spouse.
2. Once you have determined approximately how many family members you will ask to participate in this activity you will have an idea of how many taper candles to purchase. Each member of the circle will need one. You will also want to consider some type of wax guard or candlestick holder to prevent the hot wax from dripping on anyone's fingers.
3. You can discuss with your officiate or minister words that could be used to describe the circle to your wedding guests. They could say something to the effect of, "The couple has chosen to have members of their family participate in their unity candle by passing their flame to the couple. They are also passing their blessings, support, and love."
4. Run through the circle during your rehearsal so that everyone knows where to stand and to work out any kinks that may arise.
5. Have everyone that is participating in the ceremony have their candles with them so that when the time in the service comes all they have to do is get up and come to the circle. Have the officiate or minister start the flame around the circle. Each member will pass it around until it gets to the parents. I suggest having the parents stand next to their child so that when they pass the flame to the bride and groom they will then light the unity candle with it. You can also have a special prayer that is given during this time from the minister or a member of the family.

Tips & Warnings

• You can personalize this ceremony even more by having each member of the family say one thing that they wish or want to bless the couple with as they pass the light around.
• Be aware of the ages of the participants; they need to be responsible with fire.
• Use common sense and caution to not burn or injure anyone.

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