Sometime during the 1990’s, the unity candle ceremony became a big part of weddings, and while it is a fairly new it is becoming more and more popular. Because it is so new, however, couples are still unsure of exactly what it is. And since it is so new, it is still being formed and defined, which adds to the confusion. The youth of the unity candle ceremony lends it to many possibilities; this is a part of the wedding ceremony where you can have a little freedom since it is not set in stone. What is true is that it is a lovely way to symbolize the union of two people or two families.

 This is the first step of the ceremony, and typically takes place just before or at the start of the wedding. Though it is traditionally thought that the mothers of the bride and the groom are to light the taper candles to signify the bride and grooms' respective 'old' lives, anyone special in their lives can take on this honor. From grandparents and children to friends and mentors, any special someone in your life can fill the role of lighting the taper candle, and help add a touch of uniqueness to your unity candle ceremony.

 The lighting of the pillar candle is always handled by the bride and groom, and typically takes place just after the vows and rings have been exchanged. In most cases, the minister presiding over the wedding will explain the significance of the unity candle ceremony, and in many cases a song will also play throughout the ceremony. After the explanation from the minister, the bride and groom will take a flame from their respective taper candles and light the central pillar candle simultaneously. After the lighting of the pillar candle the couple may choose to put out the taper candles to signify the loss of their individual lives for sake of their new life together, or continue to let the taper flames burn as a symbol of holding on to individuality.

  The unity candle ceremony is most often held at the altar, though there is no set spot you must hold this ceremony. For as many weddings that have involved the unity candle ceremony, there have been nearly as many different placements of the ceremony. The only place that many couples frown on is outside. This is due to the often times uncooperative nature of the weather. However, as long as you're sure the wind won't interfere with your plans, even outside can be a touching locale for the unity candle ceremony.