Sharing Of The Cup
A cup of wine (or other beverage) is symbolic of the cup of life. During the
sharing of the cup, both partners drink from the same cup, symbolizing their
commitment to share all that the future may bring. All the sweetness life's cup
may hold for you should only be sweeter because you drink it together; whatever
bitterness it may contain should be less bitter because you share it together.
Candlelight Ceremonies
The romantic glow of candlelight can be absolutely breathtaking in evening or
late afternoon ceremonies. If this idea appeals to you, you will need to check
what is allowed and what fire regulations will apply, possibly affecting the
location and number of candle you may use, have two candle stands decorated with
ribbons and flowers on either side of the altar. You may want to complement that
with a similar single candle stand at the end of several rows. You can have the
candles lit by a pair of users before the ceremony, or have each attendant carry
a candle down the aisle to make a dramatic entrance.
If you want additional symbolism in your ceremony, consider having a lit candle
on both partners sides, with a single unlit candle in the center. Once
pronounced spouses for life, you each take your respective candles and, with
their flames, blending together, light the Unity Candle, joining your lives as
one.
Other Special Touches
There are creative alternatives to throwing rice, since rice is harmful to
birds, consider throwing birdseeds instead. Dried flower petals and colorful
confetti or streamers (in bio-degradable material) are affordable alternatives.
Or add some fun by having the guests blow bubbles as the newlyweds leave the
service. Sparklers (when carefully used and discarded) can be spectacular for an
evening wedding.
After being pronounced partners
for life, add a romantic touch with the centuries-old European tradition of
releasing white doves, the symbol of love, unity, and devotion. With an inside
ceremony, stage the dove release outside. Re-exit the facility, and have the
doves released as your guests look on. A flock of white doves makes a great
alternative to throwing rice, and a spectacular send off. For information on
white dove releases, check the wedding section of your phone book's yellow
pages, or call local florists and pet stores. This special touch may not be
available in your area.
Today's ecology-minded couples,
who are looking for new ways to do something special for their weddings and the
environment, might consider the newest concept in weddings, and release a dozen
of Monarch butterflies. These butterflies are specifically raised for this
purpose, then carefully shipped overnight and released into the environment at
the proper time during the ceremony. This not only helps increase our
diminishing butterfly population but also adds a dazzling touch to a garden
wedding.
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