10 Unique Unity Ceremony Ideas

Looking for some great unity ceremony ideas? You’re in the right place! A Unity Ceremony is a symbolic way to show the joining of two people at a wedding ceremony. It is typically after the vows are said and before rings are exchanged.

There are so many amazing and personal types of unity ceremonies that you could have at your wedding. Here are 15 unique and sentimental unity ceremony ideas.

Unity Candle

The Unity Candle is the most popular, traditional form of unity ceremony. Some ceremonies have the parents light a candle first and then the couple. Others have the couple and their children light a candle to symbolize the joining of a new family.

Tree Planting

This gesture is an incredible one because like sand pouring, is something you can keep as the years go on. The magical thing about this one is you can watch the tree grow as your marriage does.

Sand Pouring

Sand pouring is one of my favorite unity ceremony ideas because it creates a keepsake that you can have for years and years to come. I love when couples use their wedding colors as their sand colors. Make sure to keep the pours large so that the colors don’t mix too much.

Wine, Whiskey, or Tea Blending

This is a great ceremony, especially if one of these beverages is important to your relationship. For wine you can create a blend of red and white to create a custom rosé. For whiskey you can pour it into a custom barrel. For tea you can create a custom blend from two different types, I’ve seen couples combine their different heritages with their tea types.

Branding

This unity ceremony idea is very popular with my Texas weddings. It does require a little extra equipment and a safety bucket of water (don’t forget the water!). This ceremony takes a little extra time for the brand to heat up, so I recommend having live music or a prayer happening while this ceremony is taking place.

Time Capsule

A time capsule is probably my favorite of the unity ceremony ideas! I just love the idea of sealing away love letters, your vows, trinkets, photos, etc. To be opened on your anniversary.

Art Painting

Create a custom piece of art at your ceremony that you can display in your home. This one can be incredibly sentimental and unique to your relationship. Just make sure to choose a washable paint so it doesn’t splash or stain your dress!

Foot Washing

This tradition stems from Christian roots, but it can be incorporated into any wedding ceremony regardless of religion. It is a beautiful way to show commitment and service between you and your partner.

Unity Cord

Another very traditional unity ceremony with Christian roots. This one incorporates 3 different cords and symbolizes the couple and God. The braid can then be kept as a piece in your home.

Handfasting

This tradition has Celtic roots and consists of the couples having their hands gently bound by the officiant. It symbolizes the joining of two people and is a lovely gesture!

I hope you enjoyed this post of unity ceremony ideas, but this is just the beginning! There are so many incredible ways you can bring your personality and personal relationship into your ceremony.

Since you’re here, why don’t you check out some of these other helpful posts and resources?

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Leah Goetzel Photography is a Colorado based wedding photographer specializing in fun, authentic photos with a luxury experience. If you’re interested in chatting more, send me a message! I can’t wait to hear from you!