The traditional unity ceremony is a symbolic representation of two individuals merging into one in a marriage. However, when there are children involved, the union is incomplete without them. Including them in the unity ceremony can be a powerful affirmation of their place in the new family, and a special moment they will always remember. Here are some ideas on how to include children in the unity ceremony:
Unity Candle Ceremony
The unity candle ceremony is a classic ritual that involves lighting a large candle from two smaller candles representing bride and groom. Adding a smaller candle for each child in the family unifies them in the ceremony. This also allows the children to have their own light to contribute to the unity candle, signifying their contribution to the new family. During the ceremony, the family members can light their candles together, and then light the main unity candle together, symbolizing the creation of a new family bond that incorporates everyone.
Sand Ceremony
The sand ceremony is a modern alternative to the unity candle ceremony. Instead of transferring flames, sand of different colours is poured into a central vase, symbolizing the blending of two individuals. The sand comes in its container, and everyone pours the sand into the vase, including children. Each family member can pour a different coloured sand, signifying their unique contribution to the unity of the family. At the end of the ceremony, the vase will be filled with colourful layers of sand that represent the newly formed family unit.
Family Blessing
In this ceremony, the couple and their children can stand together in front of the officiant, where he or she can offer a blessing for the family. The blessing can include words of affirmation, hope, or encouragement. The children can also be encouraged to contribute to the blessing. This ceremony gives the family an opportunity to come together and publicly express their mutual love for each other as a new family.
Family Medallions
Family medallions are a modern ceremony that has grown in popularity in recent years. The medallions are a keepsake that represents the family bond. Typically, the couple will give a medallion to each of the children during the ceremony. The medallions can be engraved with the children’s names, and come with a necklace or chain for the child to wear as a symbol of their inclusion and commitment to the new family.
Hand Ceremony
A hand ceremony can be a visually striking ceremony that signifies the union of a loving couple. During the ceremony, the couple and their children interlace their hands, creating a beautiful web of love and unity. The officiant can recite meaningful words while the family members hold hands, affirming their mutual love and support for each other.
Conclusion
Including young ones in your wedding ceremony can create a special moment that you will treasure for a lifetime. The unity ceremony does not have to be limited to just the bride and groom. You can find creative ways to include your children in the ceremony and make them feel like an essential part of the new family bond. You can choose from one of the many popular ceremonies, or create your custom ceremony. Regardless of your preference, including children in the unity ceremony can be a magical way to create a loving family bond that will last forever.
FAQ
How to do a sand ceremony with kids?
A sand ceremony is a great way to create a lasting memory of a family bonding experience, and it’s easy to do with kids. The ceremony is simple – each member of the family receives a container of coloured sand, with a different colour per person. Typically, the colours may represent each member of the family, or can be chosen simply for variety.
Before starting the ceremony, it’s important to choose a location where the ceremony will take place, and ensure that the surface is protected from spills. It can be helpful to have a designated table set up with a smooth top to prevent any bumps or accidents while sand pouring.
Once everyone is assembled to participate in the ceremony, each person takes turns to pour a small amount of their sand into the glass vase; the sand will layer in stripes. With each layer poured, the family may choose to share a special thought or memory that is represented by their chosen coloured sand. This is a great way to create a sense of bonding and connection, and gives each person a chance to share their voice and feelings.
Tips:
1. Avoid having too many colours and choose age appropriate containers i.e., no glass for toddlers!
2. Let each person take their time to pour – there’s no rush!
3. Choose a vase with a wide neck so that everyone can easily reach it and pour the sand in.
4. Consider having a small funnel or piece of paper rolled into a cone shape available to help those with small hands or limited dexterity pour the sand.
A sand ceremony can be a fun and meaningful way to bring a family together, celebrating their unique strengths, personalities, and memories. With some careful planning and a spirit of cooperation, a sand ceremony with kids can be a cherished memory that will last a lifetime.
How do you say kids are welcome at a wedding?
When it comes to announcing that kids are welcome at a wedding, there are various wording options that you can use.
One option is to politely acknowledge that the wedding is primarily an adult occasion but that infants are still welcome. For example, you could write, “Respectfully, an adult occasion (18+). Infants under 12 months welcome.” This would help make it clear that while the wedding may not be catered to children, parents can bring along their infants with them.
Alternatively, if you’ve decided to limit the number of kids at your wedding, you could say something like, “Due to limited numbers, we hope you appreciate that children are only invited if named.” This phrasing would be a gentle reminder for guests to be considerate when deciding to bring their children along and to only do so if they are named on the invitation.
Lastly, if you don’t wish to have many kids at your reception, you can mention that unfortunately, you are only able to accommodate children who are part of the wedding party. This would be a clear way of saying your wedding is an adult-only affair, without making it awkward for parents who may have to leave their children behind.
Choosing how to express that kids are welcome at a wedding is down to personal preference and the specific circumstances of your event. As long as you’re polite, clear, and considerate of your guests’ needs, your wedding will be a joyful celebration, where kids are welcome to share in the love and happiness of the occasion.
