Traditionally, the unity candle is lit by the bride and groom during the wedding ceremony. It symbolizes the coming together of two families and the creation of a new family unit. The lighting of the unity candle is a beautiful and meaningful moment that holds deep symbolism.
In most ceremonies, there are typically two separate family candles that represent the bride’s and groom’s families. These candles are usually placed on either side of the unity candle. The family candles often symbolize the love, support, and guidance that the couple has received from their respective families throughout their lives.
When it comes time to light the unity candle, the bride and groom will each take their respective family candles and simultaneously light the center unity candle together. This act represents the joining of their families and the beginning of their journey as a new family.
The unity candle ceremony can be personalized to fit the couple’s preferences and beliefs. Some couples may choose to have additional family members or close friends participate in the lighting of the unity candle. For example, parents or grandparents may be invited to light the family candles, symbolizing their role in shaping the couple’s lives and relationships.
It’s important to note that the unity candle ceremony is not a requirement for all weddings. Some couples may choose to incorporate alternative rituals or traditions that hold personal significance to them. Ultimately, the decision of who lights the unity candle is up to the couple and what they feel best represents their union.
In my own experience attending weddings, I have seen various interpretations of the unity candle ceremony. For instance, at a close friend’s wedding, the bride and groom chose to have their parents light the family candles, representing the merging of their families. This small gesture brought a sense of unity and inclusivity to the ceremony, as it acknowledged the important role both sets of parents had played in their lives.
The lighting of the unity candle is a beautiful and symbolic moment in a wedding ceremony. It serves as a visual representation of the joining of two families and the creation of a new family unit. The decision of who lights the unity candle can be personalized to suit the couple’s preferences and can include additional family members or friends if desired.