Our Feature Presentation: Sand Unity Ceremony

In our last post we discussed blended families coming together in a sand unity ceremony. The sand unity ceremony isn't just for blended families though, it is perfect for outdoor weddings where lighting a unity candle may be difficult, or for those looking for a unique twist on the traditional unity candle ceremony.

Below you will find our feature presentation on the Sand Unity Ceremony, presented with The Dancing Daisy's Engraved Sand Ceremony Unity Set. The Dancing Daisy also offers several other versions of the Sand Unity Ceremony.

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Blended Families Come Together in a Sand Unity Ceremony

In today’s world, divorce is unfortunately a rising statistic. In fact, nearly one-third of all Americans are currently part of a blended family. So, for most bride and groom pairs bringing their families together, there’s a unique obligation to make it special.

Naturally, you will want to include your children in the ceremony; so, that they will feel like a valuable part of the union right from the start. One great way to do this is with a sand unity ceremony.

Traditionally, the couple lights a central pillar candle from two taper candles, which are lit by representatives of each party’s family at the beginning of the ceremony. This lighting can be accompanied by a blessing, vows, or can be done on its own. As timeless and elegant as this tradition is, though, it leaves no room for members of a blended family.

The sand unity ceremony is a beautiful way to incorporate any children or other family members that you want to include in your ceremony. The concept is similar to that of the unity candle ceremony, but much more inclusive for blended families. Each party is given a small vase of different-colored sand, which is then poured into a larger vase, symbolizing the coming-together of your families. After the ceremony, the vase can be placed in the home as a reminder of your special day.

Not only is the sand unity ceremony a great way to bring together your blended family, it can also be a very personal part of your wedding day. Your unity vase can be engraved with your names, monogram, or other message. In addition, your choice of sand colors can reflect your wedding colors, home décor, or any other significant part of your life. Not only will you have a gorgeous keepsake from your wedding day, you’ll also have the pleasure of knowing that the important members of your family were all included in your special day.

Note: The Heart Unity Sand Ceremony Set pictured above is available at The Dancing Daisy.

Bridesmaid Tip: Selecting Attendant Gifts for Bridesmaids

They have stuck with you through thick and thin, through elation and breakdown. They have been there to revel in mini triumphs and smooth over meltdowns. They are an ideal mixture of family and friend. They are your bridesmaids. And because they’ve been so wonderful, you’ll no doubt want to find the perfect attendant gifts for each one of them.

Attendant gifts are an indispensable part of the wedding. Too often, though, brides feel the need to give all her bridesmaids identical gifts. Cliché as it might be, the old adage that just as no two snowflakes are alike, so are no two people alike is sadly, still true. It isn’t likely that all of your bridesmaids are going to be interested in the same things, so why would you get them all the same gift? While it is fair to be equal in price of the gift, the gifts themselves don’t have to be identical.

One great way to individualize gifts is through personalization. It’s is a fast and easy way to make each present unique, and because just about everything can be personalized, you’ll easily be able to find a gift for every one of your girls!

For a girly bridesmaid, you could get a bracelet with a pendant engraved with her initial. For a sporty bridesmaid, why not a gym bag with her name embroidered on the front? And for the coffee addict, a stainless-steel thermos with her initials engraved is a great gift.

They might all have different personalities, but one fact remains the same: they’re the best friends you could imagine. So keep in mind that they are individuals, and so should their gifts. After all, you are thanking these remarkable women for helping you with your wedding!