What are Unity Ceremonies?

One question that often comes up during wedding planning is whether to include a Unity Ceremony in your celebration. When I ask couples this, I usually follow up with, “When I say, ‘Unity Ceremony,’ what comes to mind?” Almost without fail, the response is, “Oh, do you mean the candle or sand ceremony?”

While those are two well-known options, a Unity Ceremony can be so much more. It's a symbolic way to represent the joining of two lives—and there are countless creative and meaningful ways to express that union beyond the traditional sand or candle rituals. Whether personal, cultural, spiritual, or completely unique to you, a Unity Ceremony is a beautiful opportunity to reflect your values, your relationship, and your story.

There are literally 100’s of Unity Ceremonies that can be incorporated into your wedding ceremony.  Here are some options and ideas:

HANDFASTING:

Handfasting is a beautiful, ancient tradition that originated in Celtic culture, often used in weddings or betrothal ceremonies to symbolize the binding together of two lives. It’s where the term “tying the knot” comes from!

What Is Handfasting?

During a handfasting ceremony, a couple’s hands are tied together using a cord, ribbon, or cloth to symbolize their union. It can be part of the main wedding ceremony or a standalone ritual. The binding often takes the form of an infinity symbol or a knot and is usually done while vows or declarations of commitment are spoken.

Common Elements:

• The Cord/Ribbon: Can be one or more cords in meaningful colors (e.g., red for love, gold for unity, green for growth).

• Words/Vows: You might speak traditional vows, write your own, or use blessings from different cultures.

• Timing: It can be done before, during, or after the ring exchange.

• Participants: Some couples involve a family member or friend in the tying process.

Why Choose Handfasting?

• It’s visually symbolic and meaningful.

• It works in interfaith, spiritual, non-religious, or pagan ceremonies.

• It honors heritage (Celtic, Norse, Wiccan, Druid, etc.).

• It allows for a personalized moment that reflects your bond.

Modern Handfasting Ideas:

• Include different colored ribbons representing different values (e.g., friendship, loyalty, passion).

• Invite children, family, or friends to bring and place ribbons during the ceremony.

• Use a custom cord made from meaningful fabrics (like a piece of a parent’s wedding attire).

• Have the knot framed or preserved afterward.

JUMPING THE BROOM:

Jumping the Broom is a powerful and joyful wedding tradition rooted in African and African-American heritage. It's often included in ceremonies to honor ancestry, represent a fresh start, and celebrate the joining of two families.

 What Is Jumping the Broom?

At the end of the wedding ceremony, the couple jumps over a broom laid on the ground. This act symbolizes:

• Sweeping away the old—past troubles, old lives, or previous relationships

• Leaping into the new—a shared future together as one

• Union of families and community—especially when loved ones are invited to cheer or participate

Historical Roots

The custom is most commonly associated with African-American weddings, where it became a meaningful act of commitment during slavery, when legal marriage was often denied. Though its exact origins are debated, similar broom rituals existed in parts of West Africa, Wales, and Scotland, but its resurgence in African-American culture makes it a symbol of both resilience and joy.

How It Works in a Ceremony

• The officiant or a loved one explains the meaning of the broom.

• A beautifully decorated broom is laid down (sometimes brought by a family member or passed through generations).

• The couple jumps over it—sometimes holding hands or after being introduced as newlyweds.

• Guests may cheer, clap, or even shout, “Jump the broom!”

Personalizing the Tradition

• Use a decorated broom with ribbons, flowers, fabrics, or family heirlooms.

• Include a spoken blessing or poem during the ritual.

• Invite children, parents, or friends to place the broom.

• Display the broom at the reception or in your home as a keepsake.

LASSO CEREMONY:

Lasso Unity Ceremony

The Lasso Unity Ceremony (also known as the Lazo Ceremony) is a deeply symbolic tradition, most commonly found in Mexican, Filipino, and Spanish wedding cultures. It’s a beautiful way to signify the everlasting bond between two people, highlighting their spiritual and emotional unity.

What Is the Lasso Ceremony?

After the couple exchanges vows and rings, a lasso—typically a rosary, floral garland, or cord—is placed around their shoulders in a figure-eight shape (∞). This symbolizes:

• Infinity: A love that lasts forever

• Unity: The joining of two souls as one

• Blessing: God's presence in the marriage (especially in Catholic ceremonies)

How It Works in the Ceremony:

1.      Timing: Usually takes place after the vows and ring exchange, before the final blessing.

2.     Placement: The lasso is placed by sponsors, godparents, or close family members—often the “padrinos de lazo.”

3.      Shape: It's draped around the couple's shoulders or necks in a figure-eight, symbolizing eternity.

4.      Blessing or Prayer: A prayer or blessing is often spoken while the lasso is in place.

5.      Removal: The lasso is gently removed at the end of the prayer and is often given to the couple as a keepsake.

Symbolism

• The figure eight represents infinity—endless love and commitment.

• The materials (rosary, silk cord, flowers, or crystal beads) represent purity, unity, and strength.

• The sponsors' involvement reflects community and family support.

Personalizing the Lasso Ceremony

• Choose a custom lasso that reflects your culture or personal style.

• Involve important people in your life as your lasso sponsors.

• Pair it with a favorite scripture reading, poem, or vow.

• Display the lasso at your reception or home as a reminder of your vows.

These are just three choices among many available to couples planning their wedding. Consult your officiant to explore the various ceremonies you can choose for your event.