Special Elements
Rituals and traditions can add depth and emotion to your special day
The Quaich
The quaich, a traditional Scottish drinking vessel, has been used for centuries to offer a welcoming drink at family occasions and to visitors. It is often used ceremonially, particularly in weddings, as a symbol of trust and togetherness between the bride and groom. The quaich can be made from a variety of materials such as pewter, silver, silver plate or wood and can be personalized as a memento of the wedding day. In a wedding ceremony, the quaich can be used by the bride and groom to drink from together, or passed around among the participants, with the contents left to individual taste, but traditionally a fine single malt whisky is used. If either bride or groom does not drink alcohol, a soft drink can be substituted. The quaich can also be passed between the parents of the bride and groom as a way of welcoming each into the other's family.
Champagne Toast
The tradition of the champagne toast at weddings is believed to have originated in England during Shakespearean times, when people would allegedly soak stale toast in wine to soften its acidity. However, the exact origins of this tradition are unclear. What is certain is that it has been a long-standing tradition at most Western weddings and is still commonly practiced today. Whether or not it is an essential part of every wedding day is up to the couple and their preferences. You may also choose to personalize the tradition, such as allowing guests to toast with an their drink of preference as opposed to champagne.
Unity Candle Ceremony
During a wedding ceremony, a unity candle is lit to symbolize the union of two people. In this modern, non-religious ritual, the couple each hold a lit candle and use them to light a larger unity candle together, which represents the idea of "two becoming one." This tradition is particularly popular in humanist wedding ceremonies as a way to represent the commitment being made by the couple.
Warming Of The Rings
This beautiful ritual involves passing the wedding rings around to chosen guests to be warmed with their love, blessings, and positive energy. When the rings are returned to the Best Man in time for the ring exchange, they contain the love and blessings from those whom the couple loves. This adds a powerful and precious element to the ring exchange ceremony. Who you involve in this ceremony is entirely up to you. Couples may choose to include close family members, such as parents and grandparents, in the Warming of the Rings ceremony, or they may opt to involve the entire congregation. If a large number of guests are invited, careful planning will be necessary to ensure the smooth execution of the ritual.