This information about a sand ceremony is brought to us by Kay Franks, Celebrant.
What is a sand ceremony?
As a celebrant I am asked, this same question. What is sand ceremony and how can I include it in my ceremony? Typically associated with weddings, this does not mean that it cannot be included in your Life Events ceremony.
A simple description
A sand ceremony is typically the pouring of sand from two containers into one in the marriage ceremony. This can be done by the marrying couple or their guests. Often there are words surrounding the action that relate to the individually of the couple or the blending of two families into one.
Unity Sand Ceremony
Photo Credit UnitySandCeremony.net
So where did it start? Why is it so popular?
Like most customs that surround a wedding, sand ceremonies have a rich and cultural beginning. It is thought that the custom of pouring sand from one container to another commenced with the Hawaiian wedding ceremonies. As many occurred on the beach, it is only natural that they contained the surrounding natural elements. In Hawaiian ceremonies, sand was poured from two containers (sometimes shells) into a larger container. This was done to depict the joining of two lives into one, through marriage. Sand was also taken from under the feet of the marrying couple. This part of the ritual, although not known by many, is still done today. So how did the sand ceremony become so popular? It was seen on the TV dating show, The Bachelorette a few years back, so its popularity has continued to grow.
Does it have to be sand?
Coloured sand is commonly used as it forms an incredibly beautiful pattern, when poured from containers. Likewise a pattern is formed, if guests place in handfuls of sand. However, pebbles, stones, shells, crystals, beads can also be used in placement of the sand, or in combination with the sand. Likewise, glitter in the sand and different textures of sand can be used. The sky is the limit!
Where do I purchase the sand?
Craft shops and wedding items shops (including on line) has a range of sands and the bottles or vases. However, many couples collect up their sand from their favorite beach, or from the beach of their ceremony. Colouring can also be done through food dye or adding coloured chalk. The whiter the sand = the stronger the color.
Again vases can be purchased from a craft shop or wedding speciality stores. Again, it is up to you what you choose; wide mouth vases or bottles are easy for pouring in the sand but require a stopper – sometimes wax; narrow mouthed vases or bottles require a pourer to collect up all the sand. Just make sure the container is clear so that you can enjoy the beauty of the design for many years to come.
What does a sand ceremony mean? How do we include it into our ceremony?
A sand ceremony should be used as a tool to tell your story. I do not believe that it should as secular as a blending of families only. I will go into how the sand ceremony can also be used for other Life Events, such as namings and celebrations of life. However the most popular use is for the blending of two families, particularly when children are included or the unity of two very individual people or their families. The sand ceremony is particularly successful if both families have not had an opportunity to get to know each other well, prior to the wedding of their family member.
WedAlert.com
bicoastalbride
Great advice! I know many couples who have or will use a sand ceremony as a symbol of unity during their wedding celebrations. It’s a beautiful ritual, and the bottle of sand becomes a nice keepsake.
By: bicoastalbride on March 9, 2010
at 2:52 pm