The lighting of a “unity candle” is a relatively new custom in wedding ceremonies. There is no record of it in religious ceremonies and appears to be a bit like Halloween in that it has been made popular by American culture. But it has echoes of spiritual rituals and meanings around light, warmth and energy. The flame may be said to represent the passion in each individual’s soul for their spouse.
How can you incorporate them into your 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.
How does it work?
Two 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.
The images show Lauren & James’s ceremony at the stunning Shustoke Barn in Coleshill from July last year (images courtesy of Sophie Ann Photography). They wanted a moment in the ceremony for quiet reflection and they chose to have a Unity Candle Ceremony.
I chose the poetry of Harold Douglas to accompany the ceremony as it is simple but meaningful verse and reflected the simplicity of Lauren & James but also there warmth and love for each other and their family and friends who witnessed their union.
Soft mists embrace two golden flames
Alone they search the night.
Two souls adrift in dreams of Love,
They seek to claim the light.
The path is long from which they came,
But sure they are it’s right.
Two flames embrace in dreams of love,
Two souls – Two hearts, Unite.
Ruth Lee: April 2024
Unity Candle Ceremony
