Tradition: Unity Candle

If you are looking for ways to make your wedding ceremony special, you may like to include a tradition or custom like this very popular one.

The Unity candle is a large (usually white) candle, which is often wrapped in paper etched with the names of the bridal couple and the date of their wedding. The tradition is practiced in many western countries – Australia certainly being one of them.

It typically goes down like this: a member from each side of the family (usually a parent, sibling or close relative) lights a taper candle at the beginning of the ceremony. Then at a point during the ceremony, the bride and groom each take one of the taper candles and use it to light their pillar candle. 

The meaning behind the tradition is that this is a symbolisation of the unifying of the two individuals as one entity. It is also representative of two families joining together. 

Often the lighting of the candle is accompanied by an explanation of the tradition by the officiant, and or music of the couples' choosing. Some couples keep their candle to relight again on their anniversaries. 

You can read more about wedding Traditions and Customs from around the world in our Resource Guide

Are you using any traditions or customs in your wedding? Show us some comment love below. 

Hi, I’m Sally, Founder and Editor of The Bride’s Tree. Over the past 13 years I’ve written thousands of articles about all things wedding from tips and trends to etiquette and ideas. On this blog I bring you the best of Sunshine Coast and Brisbane weddings.