Symbolic Rituals Making a Comeback: Handfasting, Quaich, and More…
Discover how symbolic wedding rituals like handfasting, the Quaich, and unity candles are making a comeback in UK weddings. Personalised, meaningful, and unforgettable ceremonies with Angela Davidson Celebrant.
Why Wedding Rituals Matter
When couples come to me, they often say, “We don’t want a standard ceremony. We want something that feels like us.”
That’s exactly where symbolic wedding rituals come in. These traditions are timeless ways to express love, unity and family, and right now they’re making a big comeback in weddings across the UK. Whether you’re drawn to ancient customs or modern twists, rituals add depth and meaning that your guests will never forget.
Handfasting: An Ancient Tradition with a Modern Twist
Handfasting is one of the oldest wedding traditions, with roots in Celtic culture. Ribbons or cords are gently wrapped around the couple’s joined hands, symbolising the binding of two lives. (Yes, that’s where the phrase “tying the knot” comes from!)
Modern couples love it because it’s so flexible – you can use colours that match your theme, invite family members to tie the ribbons, or even have your children take part. It’s a beautiful way to include everyone.
In one of my recent ceremonies, the bride and groom’s sisters and their daughter each laid a ribbon over the couple’s hands. It was such a touching moment, full of meaning, and a wonderful example of how handfasting can bring family into the heart of the ceremony.
“ I put a sparkly blue ribbon over Mummy & Daddy’s arms!“
Phobe aged 3
The Quaich: A Cup of Love and Unity
The Quaich is a two-handled Scottish cup traditionally used to share a dram of whisky. In weddings, the couple drinks together to show unity, trust and a shared life ahead.
But it doesn’t have to be whisky! Some couples choose rum to honour Caribbean heritage, prosecco for sparkle, or even hot chocolate if children are joining in.
One of my recent couples chose something a little different- they filled their Quaich with a Jägerbomb, because that was the very first drink they shared together on the night they met. For them, it was more than a drink – it was a nod to their story, a moment that made their ceremony even more personal and unforgettable.
Whatever you pour, the meaning is the same: love, connection and togetherness.
Unity Candle ceremony
Unity candles are a classic choice: two candles (representing individual lives) are used to light a single larger flame, symbolising the joining of two into one. For outdoor weddings or family-blending ceremonies, sand rituals are perfect. Each person pours a different coloured sand into one vessel, creating layers that can never be separated again.
Sand Ceremony
At a beautiful destination wedding I led in Ibiza, the couple invited their two boys to take part. Each family member had a different coloured sand to represent their personality. As the layers built up, they created a vibrant keepsake – a physical reminder of how their family came together that day.
Eco-Friendly Wedding Rituals
More couples are asking me about eco-conscious touches. Planting a tree together, writing vows on seed paper, or using natural, biodegradable materials in rituals are all powerful ways to symbolise growth, commitment and sustainability.
During their wedding, the couple planted a young oak tree with their parents, who added soil. They loved the idea that their marriage would grow alongside the tree, becoming stronger year after year.
And it’s not only the rituals themselves – even the small details can carry meaning. At a recent celebration, the couple’s place names doubled up as little bags of wildflower seeds, so every guest could take something home to plant. It was a beautiful way to remind their loved ones of the day, while also giving something back to nature.
“At one recent wedding, each guest’s place name doubled up as a little bag of wildflower seeds – a gift they could plant at home. A living reminder of a beautiful day, and a way of giving something back to nature.”“
How to Choose the Right Symbolic Ritual
Choosing the right ritual depends on your personality, family traditions and the atmosphere you want to create. Some couples want something historic and romantic; others prefer something playful and interactive. As a celebrant, I help you to decide on what would be right for you and I weave these elements seamlessly into your ceremony so they feel personal and authentic.