Back in August this year I attended the wedding of my eldest niece at the gorgeous Blackwell Grange. I had been asked originally to conduct the wedding ceremony but due to limited space at the venue we were unable to accommodate the legal registrar ceremony and mine as a Celebrant on the same day. But, I was asked to choose and deliver a Rreading as part of the ceremony.
Asking a family member to read is a lovely thing to do and I took my role VERY seriously (as you would expect). I did some research and chose the gorgeous ‘The Promises of Marriage’ by Bettie Meeks.
I did some research and chose the gorgeous ‘The Promises of Marriage’ by Bettie Meeks. Here’s a picture of me reading it, captured by the super-talented Michelle White.
If you’re opting for a registrar led ceremony then you will have the option to include two readings, but don’t forget they will need to be approved by them at least three months in advance and not all choices will be approved! But there are many more ways you can include family members and loved ones in your ceremony if you choose a Celebrant Ceremony.
Here are some of my favourites and one’s I have used recently:
Unity Candle Ceremony
A unity candle can be used in a wedding ceremony to symbolise two people joining in marriage. But it can also be used to symbolise the blending of two families, and especially if the couple marrying have children from previous relationships. Taper candles are lit by the marrying couple. These tapers are then used to light a larger pillar candle in the centre which symbolises simply the joining of the couple. I used the Unity Candle Ceremony in two vow renewal ceremonies this Summer.
On both occasions, the couple had children and wanted to involve their children in the ceremony. So each member of the family had a taper candle and they lit the Unity Candle together as a family. On both occasions, it was also an opportunity to reflect and remember people who they loved and were no longer with them and where in a more spiritual way, guests could take a moment to offer a silent prayer or blessing.
The image below shows the Suchak family at Anand and Swati’s Vow Renewal in celebration of their 25th Wedding Anniversary at Blyth Hall, Warwickshire.
Sand Ceremony
A Sand Ceremony is a variation of the Unity Candle Ceremony and is also full of symbolism. Traditionally in a wedding ceremony the couple pour sand from individual vessels and combine them into one. The act represents the joining of two people in one new union. It can also be used in a ceremony where, through marriage, a new family is formed, and is perfect if younger children are involved. It is fun and meaningful. Earlier this year I conducted a wedding vow renewal for Sam and Kevin. After a Las Vegas elopement 10 years previously they wanted to recommit to each other once again, but this time in front of their friends and family and most importantly in front of their children and grandchildren.
And here is the final, unique work of art they made together as a family to keep forever.
