When it comes to the unity candle ceremony, it is a beautiful way to signify the unity and love between two people. It has been a tradition at weddings for many years, and it is a ceremony that is often cherished by both the couple and their guests. When planning an outdoor wedding, however, it can be tricky to figure out how to do the unity candle ceremony, especially if it’s a windy day. You want to make sure that the candles stay lit and that the ceremony goes off without a hitch. In this blog post, we will discuss some tips and tricks for how to do the unity candle outdoors.
1. Choose A Wind-Free Location
One of the most important things to consider when planning an outdoor unity candle ceremony is the location. You want to make sure that you choose a spot that is protected from the wind. A windy day can make it difficult to keep the candles lit, and it can even be dangerous if the wind blows the flames towards the bride or groom’s dress or a guest. When scouting out locations for your outdoor ceremony, keep an eye out for sheltered areas, such as a gazebo or a location that is surrounded by trees.
2. Use A Votive Candle
One trick for keeping the candles lit during an outdoor unity candle ceremony is to use a votive candle. Instead of lighting the unity candle directly, insert a votive candle into a holder and light that instead. Then, use the votive candle to light the outer candles during the ceremony. This way, if the wind blows out one of the outer candles, it can be easily relit with the votive candle. Make sure to bring extra votive candles and holders, just in case.
3. Keep A Lighter On Hand
Even if you use a votive candle, you’ll still want to have a lighter on hand. Lighters are more reliable than a match because they are less likely to go out in the wind. Keep the lighter in your pocket or a designated spot, so you know exactly where it is if you need it.
4. Wait Until The End Of The Ceremony
Another tip for an outdoor unity candle ceremony is to wait until the end of the ceremony to light the unity candle. This way, you can avoid having the candle blow out during the ceremony. Instead, include the unity candle lighting as the last symbolic act of the ceremony before the bride and groom make their exit.
5. Use A Hurricane Glass
If you’re worried about the wind, another trick is to use a hurricane glass to protect the unity candle. A hurricane glass is a tall, cylindrical glass that is used to protect candles from the wind. To use one for your unity candle ceremony, light the unity candle as you normally would, then place the glass over the top of the candle. This will protect the candle from the wind, and it will also help to keep the flame burning steady.
6. Rehearse The Ceremony
As with any wedding ceremony, it’s important to rehearse the unity candle ceremony so that everyone knows their roles and what to expect. When rehearsing, make sure to go through the ceremony in the actual location where the ceremony will take place. This way, you can get a feel for the wind and any other environmental factors that might affect the ceremony. Rehearsing will also help you to identify any potential issues before the big day.
Conclusion
When it comes to an outdoor unity candle ceremony, there are a few things to keep in mind to ensure that everything goes smoothly. Choose a wind-free location, use a votive candle, keep a lighter on hand, wait until the end of the ceremony to light the unity candle, use a hurricane glass, and rehearse the ceremony. By following these tips, you can have a beautiful and memorable unity candle ceremony that everyone will cherish.
FAQ
How do you light the unity candle at an outdoor wedding?
The unity candle is a symbolic tradition that is often used in wedding ceremonies to signify the union of two individuals who are getting married and the two families that they represent. When it comes to lighting the unity candle at an outdoor wedding, there are a few things that one should consider to ensure that the ceremony runs smoothly.
The first thing to consider is the location of the unity candle. When dealt with an outdoor wedding, it’s essential to make sure the unity candle is positioned in an area that is sheltered, so it doesn’t blow out. Many outdoor venues have designated areas or structures set up to provide shade or cover in case of wind or rain. If the couple decides to have their unity candle outdoors but is concerned about the weather, they may want to consider having a backup plan in case conditions change unexpectedly.
Just before the wedding vows, the parents of the couple come forward (or other family members, children etc.) and light a candle for each. Typically, these two candles represent the individual families of the couple and their lives before becoming one. Afterward, the couple comes together and uses the flames from those candles to light a center, larger candle. It symbolizes the coming together of the two families. Additionally, it represents the couple’s new life together, and the flame is kept burning throughout their lives as a symbol of this unity.
To execute the unity candle ceremony smoothly, the couple should practice using the candles they plan to light since wind and unexpected weather conditions can make using matches and lighters a bit tricky. Practicing ahead of time allows the couple to feel more comfortable during their ceremony, minimizing any potential embarrassing moments.
The unity candle tradition is an emotional and personal addition to a wedding ceremony. If you plan to have an outdoor wedding and want to include this beautiful tradition, it’s crucial to consider the location, practicing ahead of time, and having a backup plan to make sure that everything runs smoothly. The couple and their families should treasure this moment as they light candles and bring their families together.
Will candles melt if left outside?
Storing candles outside is generally not recommended as it can result in the candles melting due to exposure to high temperatures. Candles are typically made from various waxes such as paraffin, beeswax, soy, or palm wax. Each of these waxes has a specific melting point temperature that can vary depending on the formula and additives used by the manufacturer.
In general, candles will begin to soften and warp when exposed to temperatures above their melting point. Paraffin wax candles, for example, have a melting point of around 125-135°F (51-57°C). If exposed to high temperatures, they will begin to soften and bend, resulting in a distorted shape and uneven burn. Beeswax candles have a higher melting point, around 145-150°F (63-66°C), but they can still melt if exposed to prolonged heat.
Furthermore, UV radiation can also have an impact on the texture and color of candles left outside, resulting in fading, discoloration, and brittleness. Moisture can also cause candles to become soft and runny, especially if they are made from soy wax, which is particularly sensitive to temperature and humidity changes.
All in all, storing your candles in an outdoor, non-climate controlled unit will create an environment where your candles are more likely to melt. To preserve the quality and longevity of your candles, it is best to store them in a cool, dry place, away from direct sunlight and heat sources. Additionally, never leave a lit candle unattended, and keep it away from anything flammable.
Can I burn candles outside?
Burning candles outdoors is a popular way to add a peaceful and relaxing atmosphere to any backyard or patio. The warm glow of a candle can create an ambiance that is hard to match with any other type of lighting. However, it is important to consider a few key factors before burning candles outside in order to ensure safety and optimal enjoyment of this experience.
Firstly, it is important to consider the potential risks associated with burning candles outside. Windy conditions can cause candle flames to flicker or go out altogether, which can be frustrating and even dangerous if proper precautions are not taken. Furthermore, placing candles too close to flammable items, such as furniture, curtains, or vegetation, can be a significant fire hazard. As the wind changes direction, a candle flame may easily ignite any nearby items, causing damage to both your property and the environment.
One way to minimize the risks associated with burning candles outside is to use containers that are designed specifically for outdoor use. These containers are generally made of more durable materials, such as stainless steel or aluminum, and are designed to be heavier and more stable than indoor candle containers. Additionally, outdoor candle containers are often designed with wind-resistant features, such as lids or covers that help to protect the candle flame from being blowing out.
Another important factor to consider when burning candles outdoors is the weather conditions. If it is particularly windy outside, it may be best to forego candles altogether and opt for alternative lighting options, such as outdoor string lights or lanterns. Additionally, if it is expected to rain or storm, it may be necessary to move your candles inside in order to prevent them from being extinguished or damaged by the elements.
Burning candles outside can be a wonderful way to enhance the atmosphere of your outdoor space. However, it is important to take proper safety precautions and consider the potential risks associated with weather conditions when doing so. By using high-quality outdoor candle containers and being mindful of the wind and other weather-related factors, you can minimize risks and enjoy the benefits of burning candles outdoors.