One of the most beautiful aspects of a Humanist wedding ceremony is the freedom to make it truly your own. Symbolic gestures are optional elements that add depth, meaning and visual storytelling to your ceremony, reflecting your values, your relationship and the people you love.

 

Symbolic gestures are actions performed during the ceremony that represent commitment, unity, love or family. They can be ancient traditions, modern rituals or something entirely personal to you. There are many different symbolic gestures but here's some of the most popular ones:

 

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HANDFASTING 

Handfasting is one of the most well-known symbolic gestures. Rooted in ancient Celtic tradition, it involves the couple’s hands being gently bound together with ribbons or cords. It symbolises the binding of two lives, trust, and the promises you are making to one another.

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DRINKING FROM THE QUAICH

The Quaich ceremony, a Scottish tradition, involves sharing a drink from a two-handled cup. Each handle represents one partner, and drinking together symbolises trust, unity and the sharing of life’s joys and challenges.

 

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UNITY CANDLE

A Unity Candle ceremony sees each partner light a central candle from two individual flames. This represents two lives coming together to create something new, while still honouring your individual journeys.

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SAND CEREMONY

In a Sand Ceremony, different coloured sands are poured into one vessel. Once combined, the sand cannot be separated, symbolising the joining of lives, families, or even cultures. This is a lovely visual ritual and works beautifully for outdoor or family-focused ceremonies.

 

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OATHING STONE

An Oathing Stone is an ancient and powerful symbol. Couples place their hands on a stone while making vows or promises, representing strength, permanence and grounding your commitment in something solid and enduring.

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Symbolic gestures are also a wonderful way to include children and family members. Children can help pour sand, light candles, hold handfasting ribbons, or add their own promises. Family members can be invited to take part by offering readings, blessings, or participating in rituals that symbolise the blending of families.

 

As a Humanist Celebrant, I love helping couples choose or create symbolic gestures that feel authentic, meaningful and inclusive. Whether traditional or completely unique, these moments add richness to your ceremony and create memories that will last a lifetime.