Symbolic Rituals by Helen McMullan

Symbolic Rituals

How things have changed since I tied the knot back in 1989!

Our wedding was a traditional affair—a country church, hymns, prayers, and a vicar leading the ceremony. But we couldn’t resist adding a few personal touches (to the slight confusion of some older guests!). My sister-in-law sang a Chris de Burgh song, and in true irreverent style, my husband surprised everyone by bursting into “You’re My Best Friend” by Don Williams. I don’t think that song had ever sounded sweeter—or meant more—than it did in that moment.

Aside from those heartfelt deviations, our day followed a classic format. But today? The possibilities are endless.

Couples now have the freedom to shape a ceremony that’s truly their own—choosing everything from the setting and structure to the music, readings, and rituals. Whether Don Williams is your vibe or not, there are so many beautiful, symbolic elements you can include to add even more meaning to your day.

Here are just a few inspiring ideas to get you started…

💞 Handfasting

“Tying the knot” — literally and beautifully.

Rooted in ancient Celtic tradition, this ritual involves wrapping ribbons or cords around your hands to symbolise unity and eternal love.

• Choose colours with personal or traditional meaning.
• Involve family and friends in tying the ribbons or offering blessings.
• Perfect for honouring heritage or adding a spiritual touch without religious formalities.

🕯️Unity Candle

Two flames become one.

A modern yet powerful visual of two lives joining together. Each partner lights a central candle from their individual flames, symbolising their shared future.

• Include children by giving them their own candles.
• Personalise with colours, containers, or music.
• Often accompanied by poetry, music, or blessings.

🏖️ Sand Ceremony

Blending lives like grains of sand — unique and inseparable.

The couple take turns pouring their chosen coloured sand into a single vessel, symbolising unity, individuality, and enduring love.

• Use sand from meaningful locations or match your colours to your personalities.
• Ideal for blended families or involving children.
• Keep the vessel as a beautiful reminder of the day.

💍Ring Warming

Rings filled with love before they’re placed on your fingers.

Pass your rings among your guests so each can offer a silent blessing or wish.

• Do it with music, throughout the ceremony, or as guests arrive.
• Create a truly collective moment of love and support.

🧹Jumping the Broom

A joyful leap into your new life together.

A powerful tradition largely associated with the Black community, although with historical roots dating back to Celtic times in Europe, this is rich with cultural and historical meaning.

• Symbolises sweeping away the past and stepping into the future.
• Often adorned with meaningful items, colours, or words.
• A high-energy, celebratory finale to your ceremony.

🍷 Drinking Wine

A toast to love, unity, and new beginnings.

This shared ritual has roots in Jewish, Christian, Roman, and Chinese traditions.

• Symbolises harmony, abundance, and shared joy.
• Perfect for spiritual or culturally blended ceremonies.

💥 Breaking the Glass

Shatter the past, celebrate the future.

A cherished Jewish tradition — and now also a joyful way to end any ceremony.

• Guests shout “Mazel Tov!” as the glass breaks.
• Keep the shards as a keepsake or create a memory piece together.

🫧Foot Washing

A powerful act of humility and love.

This moving ritual involves the couple washing each other’s feet, symbolising care, service, and a clean beginning.

• Originating in Christian tradition, but meaningful for all.
• A quiet, reflective pause within your ceremony.

🌱 Tree Planting

Root your love in something that will grow with you.

This gentle and meaningful ritual invites the couple to plant a tree or sapling together, symbolising the enduring nature of their relationship.

• It represents growth, strength, and commitment.
• Couples can use soil from places of personal significance—where they met, grew up, or fell in love.
• A planted tree becomes a living legacy, a reminder of the promises made on your special day.

Not planting at the venue?

• Plant in a pot during your ceremony and later transplant it to your home, garden, or a place that holds meaning for you both.

🐶 Dog as Ring Bearer

Because they’ve been there for every chapter—why not the big day?

Let your four-legged friend take centre stage with this heartwarming and playful addition. Having your dog deliver the rings down the aisle adds joy, personality, and unforgettable charm to your ceremony.

• Dogs symbolise loyalty, devotion, and unconditional love—everything you want in a marriage.
• It’s a perfect way to include your beloved pet in your big day.
• It adds fun, emotion, and a unique flair to the moment you exchange your vows.

The rings can be attached to a small pouch or pillow tied to your dog’s collar or harness. A well-trained pup can be guided by a handler or even walk alone, stealing hearts as they go!

Let’s Make It Personal

As your celebrant, I’d be delighted to weave any of these rituals into your special day.
They’re more than just beautiful moments—they’re heartfelt reflections of your love story, your connection, and the future you’re building together.

Ready to make your ceremony truly unforgettable? Let’s chat about how I can add meaning, magic, and a little extra spark to your day.