The Appropriate Use of Unity Candles and Unity Candle Holders

Unity candle holders are becoming popular with the recent addition of the unity candles for weddings ceremony in some non-traditional weddings. The so-called unity candle ceremony is somewhat of a variation of the traditional candle ceremony in the sense that instead of the lighting of two separate candles on the side of the bride and the groom, there’s an additional candle in the center that will be lighted by the couple, which further symbolizes their “unity”.

Many Catholic churches do not allow this additional ceremony in the actual marriage rites, though, mainly because of the inclusion already of many symbolic acts of unity in a Catholic wedding ceremony. However, some non-Catholic weddings do allow it, usually after the wedding vows. Or sometimes, the couples decide to perform this during the reception instead. 

Two taper candles are used in the unity candle ceremony, with one large pillar candle in the middle. A representative from each family will each light the two taper candles, and then the couple will be the ones to light the center candle (that is, the unity candle) in the latter part of the wedding ceremony or reception. The lighting of family representatives symbolizes the merging of two families into one.  

In some ceremonies, the families choose to keep the light on the separate candles as well as on the unity candles (which symbolizes the individualism of the couples) while some couples decide to blow out the individual candles once the unity candle has been lighted, to symbolize their merging into one. 

Just like the other wedding accessories, the unity candle holders are also personalized to suit the couple’s personality. Couples may choose three separate holders for the three candles or joined into one (like a mini candelabra). The advantage of the former is that it allows more flexibility to the couple in terms of available designs and to the timing for which the candles will be included in the wedding ceremony.  

On the other hand, the latter is chosen by some couples because long after the wedding, its physically interconnected appearance serves as the symbolism of the unification of two families, two couples, into one. There’s also no chance to lose one piece if they are interconnected! 

Once the couple has decided whether they want the unity candle holders in separates or connected together, the next concern is to choose from among the many beautiful designs available. Whether crafted from hand-blown glass, or made from 24% lead crystal, or done in silver tone finish, there are practically hundreds of types of unity candle holders to choose from.  

Various designs are likewise available, from the classic silver-plated, heart-shaped or chapel bell-shaped or dove-shaped candle stands, to the attention-grabbing diamond-like candle holders, offered both in retail stores and online shops. Prices may vary from $17 per set to $57 per piece, depending on the intricacy of the design and the material. Online stores worth visiting for unique and affordable unity candle holders are www.weddingaccessories.net and www.theweddingoutlet.com. 

The perfect choice of unity candle holders is a great addition to any wedding ceremony, adding a personalized touch from the couple and their families, and is greatly appreciated by all the guests as a touching gesture from both families.