RITUALS
“We are so glad we chose Rev. Samora as the officiate for our small wedding ceremony in the central park.
On the wedding day, she suggested us to add a balloon release to the end of ceremony,
which was a golden idea to our wedding.” – April 2015
Most couples want to enhance their ceremony and leave their guests with a memorable experience. Many of us associate the word “Ritual” with religious practice but don’t realize that it exists in our daily lives. In a wedding ceremony, the exchange of rings and vows are popular rituals and there are so many wonderful Unity Ceremonies that can be included to celebrate your love for each other.
Wine Ceremony
The couple can either choose to pour one white glass and one red glass to create a blush that they will both drink from or there can be a pouring of one glass that they both will drink from.
Hand Wrapping
The original meaning of “tying the knot”. A Celtic tradition where the hands are tied with cloth in the shape of the infinity symbol to symbolize the bringing together of the two hearts in a marriage of strength and unity forever.
Wedding Lasso
Popular in Mexican, Filipino and Spanish cultures. A rosary(or lace rope) is placed around the couple as a symbol of unity.
This ritual is often accompanied by an Arras Ceremony (13 coins given to the Bride by the Groom)
Butterfly Release
An American Indian Legend says that if you catch a butterfly and make a wish, when you release it your wish will come true. Many people choose to have this ritual performed at the end of their wedding ceremony.
Broom Jumping
An African and Celtic tradition which symbolizes the clearing away of negativity with a sweep of the broom and creating a threshold for the couple to cross over into their new life together.
Rose Ceremony
The couple can choose to present roses to the mothers/grandmothers as a way of showing appreciation for their support. The roses can also be presented as the first gifts that the couple will give to each other.
Foundation
The Foundation Ceremony involves collecting elements from the earth such as soil, rocks, sand, etc. from locations that hold special meaning to the couple. The beauty of this ceremony is you can continue to build layers throughout your marriage and display it in your home.
Tea Unity
Tea ceremonies are a strong part of Asian tradition. The tea ceremony is the most sacred ritual of Chinese Nuptials. A modern twist is each partner chooses a tea that best describes their personalities and have them pour their individual teas into one pot, symbolizing the unifying of their families.
Unity Candle
This ritual has long been used in Catholic weddings, but also holds a universal meaning. It symbolizes the joining of the couple in marriage as well as the joining of their two original families. The couple’s mothers can light their individual candles for them as a symbol to show that they are moving on from their family to create a new family together.
