You may have seen them in weddings you’ve attended – those elegant candles lit during the ceremony. But do you know the history and symbolism behind wedding candles? Join us on a journey to uncover the significance of this beautiful tradition that has stood the test of time. From ancient rituals to modern-day weddings, learn how these candles add a touch of romance and symbolism to your special day.
Origins of Wedding Candles
Ancient Civilizations
While ancient civilisations such as the Egyptians, Greeks, and Romans did not have the specific tradition of wedding candles as we know it today, they did use candles in various ceremonies and celebrations. Candles were seen as symbols of light, purity, and spirituality, often lit during important rituals to ward off evil spirits and bring blessings to the participants.
Early Christian Traditions
With the influence of Christianity, the use of candles in weddings took on a more specific and symbolic meaning. The lighting of candles during the wedding ceremony became a way to symbolise the presence of the Holy Spirit, the light of Christ, and the couple’s commitment to each other in the eyes of God.
The lighting of a unity candle, where the couple each lights a single candle from their individual ones to symbolise their unity as they start their journey together, is a popular tradition that stems from early Christian practices.
Ancient traditions often carried symbolic meanings that were adapted and incorporated into early Christian practices. The use of candles in weddings symbolised enlightenment, purity, and the divine presence, emphasising the spiritual significance of the marriage union.
Symbolism Behind Wedding Candles
Unity and Togetherness
One of the most significant symbolic meanings behind the use of wedding candles is the representation of unity and togetherness. As you and your partner each light a candle and then use those flames to light a central third candle together, it symbolises the joining of your lives in a new union. The act of two flames becoming one not only represents the coming together of two individuals but also the creation of a new, shared life path.
Light in the Darkness
Any symbolism behind the representation of light in the darkness signifies hope, guidance, and a way forward in the face of uncertainties. The glow of the candles illuminates the darkness, signifying your journey as a couple through life’s challenges. The warmth and brightness of the flame symbolise the love and positivity that you bring into each other’s lives, even in the toughest of times.
To further enhance this symbolism, consider incorporating candles in different parts of your wedding ceremony and reception. From candlelit aisles to glowing centrepieces, the presence of candles can create a romantic and intimate atmosphere, emphasising the light you bring into each other’s lives.
Purity and Innocence
To embody purity and innocence, the white candles often used in wedding ceremonies symbolise the beginning of a new chapter in your lives filled with fresh beginnings and untainted love. Darkness cannot exist where there is light, and by incorporating white candles, you are signifying the purity and sincerity of your intentions towards each other.
Understanding the symbolism behind wedding candles can add a deeper layer of meaning to your ceremony. It allows you to reflect on the significance of unity, light, and purity as you launch on this journey together as a married couple.
Types of Wedding Candles
Once again, wedding candles come in various types and styles to suit different preferences and themes. Here are some common types of wedding candles:
- Taper Candles: Taper candles are elegant and traditional, perfect for adding a touch of sophistication to your wedding décor. They are long and slender, often used in pairs or groups to create a classic and romantic atmosphere.
- Pillar Candles: Pillar candles are versatile and can be used as standalone centrepieces or combined with other candles for a stunning display. They come in various sizes and colours, allowing you to customise your wedding décor to match your theme.
- Votive Candles: Votive candles are small, usually placed in decorative holders or glass containers. They are great for adding a warm and intimate glow to your wedding tables or venue.
Taper Candles
Taper candles are a classic choice for wedding ceremonies and receptions. Their long, sleek design adds a touch of elegance to any setting. You can place them in candelabras or holders along the aisle or on dining tables to create a romantic ambiance. Taper candles are available in various colours, allowing you to coordinate them with your wedding colour scheme.
Pillar Candles
Pillar candles are a popular choice for weddings due to their versatility. You can use them as focal points on tables or as accents to floral arrangements. Pillar candles burn evenly and are long-lasting, making them ideal for both indoor and outdoor weddings. They are available in different sizes, shapes, and textures to complement your wedding theme.
Pillar candles are known for their sturdiness and ability to stand alone without the need for a holder. You can place them directly on surfaces or use decorative plates or mirrors to enhance their visual impact. Any spills or drips from pillar candles are contained within their shape, making them a practical and stylish choice for wedding décor.
Votive Candles
Votive candles are small yet powerful in creating a cosy and intimate atmosphere at weddings. You can place them in clusters along tables or around the venue to provide soft, flickering light. Votive candles are a budget-friendly option for adding warmth and charm to your wedding décor.
To enhance the ambiance further, consider using scented votive candles that complement your chosen wedding theme. Scents like lavender, rose, or vanilla can evoke emotions and memories, adding an extra personal touch to your special day.
The Role of Wedding Candles in Different Cultures
Western Traditions
Traditions surrounding wedding candles in Western cultures often involve the lighting of two candles by the couple, symbolising the joining of two families and the unity of the couple in marriage. The bride and groom each take a candle, representing their individual lives, and together light a larger candle as a symbol of their new shared life together. This act signifies the merging of their families and the beginning of their journey as a married couple.
Eastern Influences
Any discussion of wedding candles would be incomplete without mentioning the influence of Eastern cultures. In many Eastern ceremonies, candles hold deep symbolic meanings. For example, in some Asian cultures, candles are lit to honour ancestors or signify blessings for the newlyweds. In these ceremonies, the lighting of candles symbolises the bringing of light into the couple’s lives, illuminating their path ahead.
This incorporation of candles into Eastern wedding ceremonies illustrates the universal symbolism of light, hope, and blessings that transcends cultural boundaries. The presence of candles in weddings serves as a reminder of the shared human experiences and aspirations for a bright and prosperous future.
Cultural Variations
This section will explore further into how Eastern cultures incorporate candles into their wedding ceremonies and the specific meanings attached to this tradition. Stay tuned for a closer look at the diverse cultural variations surrounding the use of wedding candles.
Wedding Candle Customs and Practices
Lighting the Candles
To begin the ceremony, the lighting of the wedding candles is a poignant moment symbolising the union of two individuals. The two separate candles, representing the bride and groom, are lit by family members or the couple themselves. As the flames merge to ignite a single unity candle, it signifies the coming together of two families and the beginning of a new journey as one.
Blowing Out the Flames
Lighting the candles is a symbolic act of initiation, whereas blowing out the flames at the end of the ceremony represents the closing of that particular chapter. Blowing out the candles together can symbolise the support and commitment you have for one another, promising to stand together through all of life’s challenges.
This act of blowing out the flames can also serve as a thoughtful moment to reflect on the significance of the ceremony you have just shared and the promises you have made to each other. It’s a beautiful way to mark the end of the ceremony and the beginning of your marriage.
Keeping the Candles Lit
On your wedding day, keeping the candles lit throughout the ceremony can be a lovely way to symbolise the light and love that will guide your path together as a married couple. Whether you choose to have them burning brightly throughout the event or only during specific moments, the presence of the candles can add a touch of warmth and intimacy to the occasion.
Candles have long been associated with love, hope, and purity. By keeping the candles lit, you are not only honouring tradition but also creating a beautiful and meaningful symbol of your everlasting commitment to each other.
Modern Twists on Traditional Wedding Candles
Personalized Candles
Candles have always been a symbol of light and love in wedding ceremonies. A modern twist on the traditional wedding candle is to personalise them with your initials, wedding date, or even a special quote that holds significance for you and your partner. These personalised candles add a unique touch to your ceremony and can also serve as wonderful keepsakes for you and your guests.
Unique Candle Holders
One way to put a modern twist on the traditional wedding candles is by choosing unique candle holders. Instead of opting for the classic silver or crystal candle holders, you can explore more creative options such as geometric shapes, sleek marble designs, or even custom-made holders that reflect your personal style and wedding theme.
Unique candle holders can add a touch of personality to your wedding décor and create a visually stunning display during your ceremony. They can also be versatile pieces that you can continue to use in your home long after the wedding day is over.
Non-Traditional Candle Materials
Holders made from non-traditional materials like concrete, wood, or brushed metals can add an unexpected and contemporary twist to your wedding candles. These unique materials bring a modern edge to the classic tradition of candle lighting, making a statement and adding a touch of sophistication to your ceremony.
With non-traditional candle materials, you can experiment with different textures, colours, and shapes to create a truly bespoke look that reflects your personal style and sets your wedding apart. These modern candle holders will undoubtedly spark conversation and admiration among your guests.
Summing up
From above, you have now explored the fascinating history and symbolism of wedding candles. By understanding the traditions behind this ritual, you can appreciate the depth of meaning that these candles hold during a wedding ceremony. The lighting of the unity candle symbolises the merging of two families into one, representing unity, love, and the beginning of a new chapter as a married couple.