5 Awesome Unity Candle Alternatives

If you enjoy the symbolism of the unity candle but want to do something else on your wedding day, read on. There are plenty of fabulous alternatives that get the point across just as well!

Reverse Unity Candle

Provide everyone attending your wedding with a candle. Start with you and your partner lighting a candle, then light a candle held by a member of your wedding party...or whoever is in the front row. Pass the flame "down the line" until everyone has a lit candle. This idea gets everyone involved in your wedding ceremony, and emphasizes the connection among you all.

Wine Or Beer Pour

Pick your favorite wine or beer, and have your partner do the same. If you choose beer, pour the libation in a pint glass. If you choose wine, use a carafe. Pour the alcohol into the container at the same time to symbolize your love and unity.

Handfasting

Try this idea if you are of Irish descent and want to celebrate your heritage...or simply because you think it's cool! Purchase some pretty ribbon or rope and use it to tie your hand to your partner's hand. The term "tie the knot" may have stemmed from this ancient Celtic tradition!

Hand Washing

Let the person officiating your wedding pour water over both of your hands as you hold them over a small bowl. This act symbolizes the cleansing of all missteps and starting fresh in your new marriage. Pretty cool, right?

Tree Planting

Enjoy planting a tree together on your wedding day. Plant a small tree in a large vase, bucket, or pot. If you have a backyard, eventually plant the tree there and watch it grow. The idea is you and your partner are putting down roots together! It's a beautiful concept, particularly for nature lovers.