Welcome to HOW TO WEDDING: Advice from a photographer who has seen some stuff
When it comes to weddings, there’s nothing wrong with tradition. Unity candles and sand ceremonies are beautiful ways to symbolize two lives becoming one. But let’s be honest—after attending 150+ weddings, I’ve seen enough candles and sand to light up a small city and start a beach resort. If you’re looking to add a little extra flavor to your ceremony, let’s talk about unique unity ceremonies that really stand out.
The Case for Creativity
Unity ceremonies are a symbolic way to represent your partnership. It’s a chance to show your guests who you are as a couple, and maybe even make them laugh, cry, or go, “Wow, that was cool!” The key is to choose something meaningful to you both, even if it’s something no one has ever done before.
Unique Unity Ideas to Inspire You
Here are some of the most memorable unity ceremonies I’ve seen:
1. The Whiskey Blend:
This one is for the whiskey lovers. One couple brought two different types of whiskey, each representing their personalities, and mixed them into a custom barrel engraved with their names and wedding date. Not only was it symbolic of blending their lives, but they also got to drink the results on their anniversary. Talk about a spirit-filled ceremony!
2. The PB&J Love Story:
One couple took a deliciously creative route with a PB&J unity ceremony. One set of parents provided the peanut butter, the other the jelly, and the couple made the bread. During the ceremony, they assembled a tiny sandwich and fed each other a bite. Sweet, savory, and sentimental—what’s not to love?
3. Planting Roots Together:
For nature lovers, planting a tree is a beautiful way to symbolize growth and stability. One couple used soil from each of their childhood homes to plant a sapling during their ceremony. Over time, that tree will grow alongside their marriage, which is both poetic and environmentally friendly.
4. The DIY Touch:
Some couples opt for hands-on projects like painting a canvas together, braiding ropes, or building a birdhouse. These ceremonies don’t just symbolize unity; they leave you with a keepsake to cherish forever.
