A gentle symbol of unity and family
Candle Lighting is a warm, reflective moment where two individual flames come together to create one shared flame. It’s often chosen when couples want a quiet pause in the ceremony, or when they’d like to involve family in a meaningful way.
Two guests (often one from each side) light the first two candles. You then use their flames to light your unity candle together.
What it symbolises
- Two lives becoming one
- The joining of families
- Hope, warmth and new beginnings
- A moment of calm within the ceremony
It works beautifully indoors and feels especially meaningful in winter or evening ceremonies.
How we do it
- Two nominated guests light the first two candles before your vows.
- When the moment comes, you each take one of those flames.
- Together, you light your unity candle — the shared flame representing your marriage.
- The candle can remain lit for the rest of the ceremony if the venue allows.
What you need to supply
We ask that you bring your own candles, especially if you’d like specific colours, sizes, or holders. Many couples choose three pillar candles although you may choose any that you wish.
If you’d like something personalised — engraved, coloured, or themed — this is the place to do it.
What we supply
Your celebrant will provide a votive/tea light candle and tapers for you to use.
Where it fits in the ceremony
The candle lighting ceremony has two elements - the first two candles are lit by your chosen guests before you exhange your vows with the remaining Unity candle being lit after you have exchanged your vows and signed your marriage schedule.
Variations you might like
Parents’ Blessing — each parent lights a candle and offers a quiet wish.
Children Involved — children help light the unity candle with you.
Coloured Candles — each colour representing something meaningful (love, strength, family, hope).
Things to consider
- Who would you like to light the first two candles?
- What will you place the candles on - will you need candle holders, for instance?
- Do you prefer traditional white candles or something more personal?
- Is your venue suitable for open flame? (Most are, but it’s worth checking.)
A wee reassurance
You don’t need to decide this now. If Candle Lighting feels meaningful, lovely — and if not, you can simply leave it out. Your ceremony will still be completely yours.