The unity candle ceremony is a deeply meaningful and beautiful tradition that many couples choose to incorporate into their wedding ceremonies. This ceremony symbolizes the joining of two families and the beginning of a new life together.
One of the key elements of the unity candle ceremony is, of course, the candles themselves. But what do you use to light the unity candles? In this article, we’ll explore the various options and provide some helpful tips to ensure that your unity candle lighting ceremony goes smoothly.
Option 1: Small Taper Candles
One of the most popular options for lighting the unity candle is to use small taper candles. Typically, the parents or other family members of the couple will each have their own taper candle, which they will use to light the larger unity candle.
Using taper candles can be a very elegant and traditional approach to the unity candle lighting ceremony. However, it’s important to keep in mind that it does require some coordination and planning to ensure that everyone knows their role and knows when to light their candle.
It’s also worth mentioning that taper candles can be a bit tricky to light, particularly if there is a breeze or the room is drafty. Be sure to practice lighting the taper candles ahead of time to avoid any mishaps during the actual ceremony.
Option 2: Long-Handled Lighters
Another option for lighting the unity candle is to use a long-handled lighter. There are a variety of different types of long-handled lighters available, ranging from simple butane lighters to fancier, more decorative options.
Using a long-handled lighter can be a great option if you’re concerned about the stability of taper candles or if you simply prefer a more modern approach to the unity candle lighting ceremony.
It’s worth noting, however, that long-handled lighters can be a bit tricky to use if you’re not familiar with them. Make sure to practice using the lighter ahead of time to avoid any awkward moments during the actual ceremony.
Option 3: “Matchless” Candles
Another option for lighting the unity candle is to use “matchless” candles that come with their own self-contained flame. These types of candles are usually battery-operated and provide a very low-maintenance option for the unity candle lighting ceremony.
Using matchless candles can be a great option if you’re concerned about safety (particularly if you’re having an outdoor wedding where there may be a breeze) or if you simply don’t want to worry about coordinating and lighting multiple candles.
Keep in mind, however, that matchless candles may not have the same traditional feel as taper candles or long-handled lighters. Be sure to consider the overall look and feel of your wedding when deciding whether or not to use matchless candles for the unity candle lighting.
Conclusion
The unity candle ceremony is a beautiful and symbolic tradition that can add a meaningful touch to any wedding ceremony. When it comes to lighting the unity candle, there are a variety of different options to choose from, each with its own advantages and potential pitfalls.
Whether you opt for taper candles, a long-handled lighter, or matchless candles, the key to a successful unity candle lighting ceremony is practice, coordination, and communication. Make sure everyone involved knows their role and understands exactly how the ceremony will unfold.
By taking the time to plan ahead and consider all of your options, you can ensure that your unity candle lighting ceremony is everything you hoped it would be – a beautiful, meaningful, and memorable moment that celebrates the beginning of your new life together.
FAQ
What do you do with unity candle after wedding?
The unity candle is a popular wedding tradition that symbolizes the union of two individuals becoming one. It is a beautiful and meaningful ceremony where two taper candles, usually lit by the mothers or family members of the couple, are used to light a larger pillar candle representing the couple’s union.
But what happens to the unity candle after the wedding? Many couples choose to keep it as a memento of their special day, while others wonder what to do with it once the ceremony is over.
One option is to display the unity candle in your home as a decorative piece. You can place it on a mantle or a bookshelf, or even use it as a centerpiece for your dining table. By doing this, you can relish the beautiful memory of your wedding day every time you lay your eyes upon it.
Another popular option is to hold the unity candles in dedicated candle holders. This helps to protect the candle and keep it safe from damage. You can find a variety of candle holders in different styles and materials, from crystal and silver to wood and ceramic. Choosing a holder that complements the unity candle and enhances its beauty further enhances the elegance of the decoration.
Some couples prefer to use the unity candle as part of a tradition for annual vow renewals or anniversaries. They may choose to light the candle on their anniversary as a way of renewing their commitment to each other. This provides an excellent opportunity to relive the memories of your wedding day all over again.
In short, what you do with your unity candle post-wedding is entirely up to you. It holds a deep meaning that signifies the unity between two individuals, and keeping it as a memory, using it as a decorative piece, or renewing your vows annually are all great options. By choosing the one that feels most meaningful to you, you’ll always have a beautiful representation of commitment and love on display in your home.
Who lights the unity candle at a Catholic wedding?
In many wedding traditions, the unity candle lighting ceremony is considered as one of the most important and symbolic moments of the wedding ceremony. The unity candle symbolizes the union of two individuals and their families that will now be joined as one.
In a Catholic wedding ceremony, the lighting of the unity candle is also observed, but there is a slight variation to it. Unlike other wedding ceremonies, the unity candle is not lit by the bride’s and groom’s mothers, but rather by the bride and groom themselves.
The unity candle ceremony in a Catholic wedding is usually performed after the exchange of vows and rings. The bride and groom each take a smaller lighted candle which represents their separate lives before marriage. Using those candles, they together light the larger candle placed in the center, symbolizing the unity of their two lives.
The lighting of the unity candle in a Catholic wedding carries a deep meaning. It represents the growth, strength, and unity of the couple’s love as they embark on their journey in life together. It also signifies the acceptance of their responsibilities and the commitment of their lives as one.
Once the unity candle has been lit, the bride and groom then blow out the smaller candles, signifying the end of their separate lives. This act shows in a symbolic way that their two lives are now blended into one, where they will go through life’s journey together, sharing the joys and sorrows that life brings.
To conclude, the unity candle lighting ceremony in a Catholic wedding is an important symbolic moment that represents the union of two individuals, their families, and their faith. The bride and groom lighting the candle together signifies their commitment to each other, while blowing out the smaller candles symbolizes the start of their new life together as one.
What does Bath and Body Works use for candles?
Bath & Body Works is a popular American retailer that specializes in a wide variety of personal care and home fragrance products. One of their most popular product lines is their collection of candles, which come in a variety of scents and sizes. But have you ever wondered what ingredients are used in Bath & Body Works candles to provide that heavenly fragrance and long-lasting burn time?
Currently, Bath & Body Works offers two different formulas for their candles. Both formulas include vegetable wax, paraffin wax, and soy as the main ingredients, but in different concentrations. The main difference between the two formulas is that one is considered a vegetable wax candle, while the other is considered a paraffin wax blend candle.
Bath & Body Works’ Signature Collection Candles are the vegetable wax option. These candles are made using a blend of vegetable waxes that are formulated to provide an even burn and a great scent throw. According to the company, the vegetable wax blend used in these candles is crafted from soybeans, cottonseed, and other plant-based ingredients. This blend allows for a clean and eco-friendly burn that is perfect for creating a relaxing atmosphere in any space.
On the other hand, Bath & Body Works’ White Barn Candles are the paraffin wax blend option. According to the company, this blend is made using a combination of food-grade paraffin wax and other high-quality ingredients. This particular blend is said to provide a stronger fragrance throw and a longer burn time than the vegetable wax candles.
So, whether you prefer the cleaner burn of a vegetable wax candle or the stronger scent throw of a paraffin wax blend candle, Bath & Body Works has a candle for you. And with an ever-changing array of scents and styles, there is sure to be a candle that fits your unique tastes and home decor.