The History of Unity Candles
Posted by Amy on Dec 05 2008
During the last 25 years or so the practice of lighting a Unity Candle to celebrate the union of man and wife and the union of their families has grown a great deal in popularity. The ceremony is rich in symbolism and easily understood, though not tied to a specific religion or culture.
Though the ceremony is very flexible, there are some standards that are usually adhered to. First off, a special Unity Candle and two tapers are readied in the area of the ceremony. The candles should be set up so that there is a single taper on either side of the main candle and these should be placed within view of the congregation.
The actual candle lighting ceremony usually takes place after the exchange of rings and before the couple is pronounced husband and wife. One participant from each family (usually the mothers) is chosen to light a taper candle. The bride and groom then take their designated taper candle and simultaneously light the main Unity Candle symbolizing the union of the bride and groom and of thier two families.
The tapers can then either be extinguished or kept lit for the remainder of the ceremony. Extinguishing them may represent the end of the pair’s lives as individuals. Leaving them lit can be a way of acknowledging the continued life of the individual within the marriage.
At My Candle Garden I can design and create a perfect Unity Candle for your ceremony. Choose your own colors! Choose your own theme and style! Allow me to create a wedding candle that is as unique and beautiful as the bond you share with your own true love.
My hand-made candles are oil-burning and will never melt away! They may be relit on anniversaries and other special occasions!
Please visit my “specialty candles” page for further details about my Unity Candles, Bridal Pary Gifts, and Centerpeices for your Reception!