Uncommon Unity rituals we love...

When I sat down to begin writing this blog, I had a grand vision of providing you with a lengthy and inclusive list. Five thousand words later, I decided it wasn’t a blog—it was a novella. So here we are with part one of a three-part series that will showcase some of my favorite, truly unique unity rituals as well as a few that are a bit more common.  

Unity rituals are a lovely addition to any meaningful ceremony.  While they are not a requirement of a great ceremony, they are a fabulous way to break up the intensity of standing in front of a group of your closest loved ones. In addition, a well-planned unity ritual will engage your guest—so it’s a win-win.  I always encourage my couples to think outside the box, get creative and make it your own. Due to the vastness of this topic, our three-part series will be broken down into the following categories: “our favorites,” “family centered and/or guest participation” and “just the couple.” 

Ready to get started?  Awesome—I have had the opportunity to serve some truly rad couples and we have created some “outta’ the box” unity rituals for their special day.  Some of my favorites include:

Building a fire- This is great for outdoor weddings that allow open fires.  Our couple begins the ritual by lighting the fire.  Then we call upon your guests to keep the fire burning throughout the celebration by stoking and adding their own log to the fire.  It’s a great way to include everyone and bonus points for have a raging fire all night!
 
Geode Smashing- Where are my rock-hounds at?! Geodes are like the "Blow Pop" of the geology world because underneath the hard exterior lies a surprise center! This boulder shaped mineral is hollow in the middle and filled with sparkling crystals. To prepare the geode requires a bit of handiness and tools, but the outcome is worth the “work”.

Photo Credit: Hailey Lauren Photography

Blending of Rosemary and EVOO- It’s all in the title—you take a high-quality extra virgin olive oil and add 3-5 sprigs of fresh organically grown Rosemary and seal the bottle. The intention is to pick a wedding anniversary when you will open the oil and use it for a romantic dinner or pair it with a vintage bottle of your favorite Red and a beautifully crusted bread. Rich in Mediterranean tradition.
 
Mixing of the signature cocktail/mocktail- This is a great way to debut your signature cocktail, your favorite drink or honestly, just get the party started!  Consider something fun like a Butterfly Peaberry tea Moscow mule or keep it simple with a Jack and Coke.  Whatever you choose be sure it represents your personalities, theme or wedding vibe.

Photo credit: Stephanie Kase Photography

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Lego Building- Where are my Master Builders at?!  We’re not talking about building the Death Star—unless you want your guests to help throughout the evening.  We usually recommend a set that is 150-250 pieces.  Lego makes a super cute wedding set that is 132 pieces – check it out here.  I have had past couples use their Lego creation as a cake topper or décor on the cake table after the ceremony!

Photo credit: Doug Melvin Photography

Ring Blessing- Love minerals and crystals?  Me too!  We offer an awesome service that designed and manifested especially for you.  We hand select minerals based on their properties and fill then with our love and intentions.  Your minerals will be beautifully and thoughtfully place upon the grid for you during your meditation.  Lastly, we place your wedding bands upon the center stone and deliver them to the altar in style.  For more information on adding this service to you ceremony head over to ring blessings. I look forward to sharing part deux of the unity ritual series with you real soon!

Photo credit J Hannah Photography