The lighting of a ‘Unity Candle’ is a beautiful and symbolic visual of the marriage covenant!

The Christian perspective on the ‘Unity Candle’…
The large ‘Unity Candle’ represents our Father-God and Creator. Jesus—God incarnate…the “cornerstone of our faith” and Savior of the world, is also thus represented in this same candle. The 2 matching candles symbolize the next important facets—the bride and groom. God created the couple, giving each of them Spiritual gifts and talents, in order that they might serve Him and help build His kingdom. Then, as the couple is joined in marriage, these gifts and talents continue to glorify God, but also enhance one another, their marriage and the journey through this life. The 2 candles also represent the 2 families being entwined with the couple, and their obligation to help uphold the couple’s marriage in times of trial.

What does the ‘Unity Candle’ look like?
Typically, 3 candles are utilized; 2 that are taper-style, and 1 larger and stout candle (the actual ‘Unity Candle’). There are formal ‘Unity Candle’ sets that can be purchased at specialty stores and online sites, or a couple can seek out unique candles of their own choosing. (if outdoors, be sure your candles are in tall enough containers to shield them from the wind, and utilizing a long grill lighter works best!)

Often times here at the Outer Banks, however, sand is used instead of candles…
(or other pour-able materials…sea salt, ocean water, colored oils, etc) …given our infamous summer breezes, or in keeping with a ‘beach’ theme! Many couples use sand and shells that God has freely blessed our beaches with, or colored sand can be purchased to coordinate with bridal colors, and three containers are used (these can be shells or other containers of your choice).

How is the ‘Unity Candle’ (or Sand) done?
The ‘Unity Candle’ segment occurs after the couple has exchanged their vows and rings.

The ‘Unity Candle’ items are typically set up before the ceremony starts, preferably on a low table (this table is best situated on the groom’s side, and equidistant between the groomsmen and the first row of guests). If no access to a table, you can create a ‘human table’ by asking 3 invited guests to hold these items! Then at the appointed time during the ceremony, I invite the couple to stand at the table the items are placed on. I explain the event first, then motion the couple to begin their part. The bride and groom then each light their taper, then together simultaneously light the ‘Unity Candle’ with their tapers (or pour the sand).

This is also a great moment in the ceremony to have a soloist or instrumental song played!

Further suggestions…
~Each mother can light the 2 tapers (or bring the containers to the table) upon their entrance into the wedding ceremony area, before they take their seats
~If your wedding will be ‘blending’ families, this is a great way to get the kids involved!