Marriage is not just spiritual communion, it is also remembering to take out the rubbish.

A ritual symbolises the purpose of a ceremony in a visual and highly personal way. So, for people getting married for example, it may symbolise the coming together of two lives into one; for naming ceremonies, it may symbolise the network of friends and family who will play a part in the person's life. In a celebrant-led ceremony, the options for rituals are limitless and only constrained by your imagination. You can even invent your own ritual that can become a new family tradition.

Traditional rituals 

Handfasting - During a wedding ceremony, the couple’s hands are temporarily wrapped or tied together using ribbons, ropes, or cloth to symbolise commitment - literally tying the knot! The ties used can also be symbolic, using colours, patterns or material that have a particular meaning for the couple.

Candle ceremony - In a wedding ceremony, the couple hold small candles, representing their individual lives, then light a larger 'unity' candle together, symbolising their union. The individual candles can be lit by significant people from the wedding party, such as parents or children. This ritual also works well in naming ceremonies to show the love and commitment of various people to the person being named.

Sand blending - Different coloured sand is poured in layers into a decorative glass container, which is then a beautiful keepsake after the ceremony. The colours of sand represent different values or attributes that mean something to those involved. In a wedding ceremony, the layers of sand are usually poured by the couple to symbolise the blending of two lives into one, although parents, children or other significant members of the wedding party can be involved to demonstrate the blending of families. This ritual can also be used in naming ceremonies to symbolise welcoming the newly named person into a family or group.

Ring blessing - Before the wedding ceremony, the rings are passed among the guests.  Each person gives the rings a special wish or blessing so that they return to the couple full of good luck for the future.

Modern rituals

Drink blending ceremony - If a couple has a favourite cocktail or they are whisky connoisseurs, for example, they can symbolise their union by blending individual ingredients to create a perfectly mixed drink. This can be enjoyed by the couple afterwards or shared among the guests. This ritual is good for weddings or vow renewals as it is highly personal to the couple, and shows a sense of fun.

Paint ceremony - Different coloured paint is poured, brushed or splattered onto a canvas to create a unique artwork. The colours can represent memories, individual passions, hopes and dreams - for a wedding, that could be anything that represents the couple's past, present and future together. The blank canvas symbolises the start of a  journey so this ritual is also great for naming ceremonies, where members of a family can create an artwork together.

Planting ceremony - A flower or tree is planted during a ceremony. In weddings, vow renewals and naming ceremonies, it can symbolise new beginnings, growth and longevity. As part of a funeral, this ritual commemorates a loved one's passing and provides a lasting reminder of that person for those left behind.

Wine box ceremony - Perfect for weddings and vow renewals, this ritual involves the couple sealing a bottle of wine into a box, symbolising the permanence and longevity of marriage. The couple can then  enjoy the wine at a later date - often an anniversary or special occasion.