At the start of the ceremony the Officiant or Registrar says:

‘Today you are making a life-long commitment to share the rest of your lives with each other. Your relationship is symbolized through the pouring of theses individual containers of sand –

One, representing you, (Bridegroom’s name)……… and all that you were, all that you are, and all that you will ever be.

The other representing you, (Bride’s name)……. and all that you were, all that you are, and all that you will ever be.

As you each hold your sand, the separate containers represent your lives to this moment, individual and unique. As you now combine your sand together, your lives also join together as one family”

Bride and Bridegroom pour half their sand

“At this time, I would like to invite (childrens names….)  …… to come forward. These vials of sand represent each (child) member of the family. You may now blend the sand together symbolizing the uniting of the two families now into one.

(Laura) pours half their sand

(Tom) pours half their sand

(James) pours half their sand

Bride and Bridegroom pour the remainder of their sand

(Laura) pours remainder of her sand

(Tom) pours remainder of his sand

(James) pours remainder of their sand

“Just as these grains of sand can never be separated and poured again into the individual containers, so will your marriage and your family(ies) be”.

THE SAND CEREMONY

With couples now getting married and wanting to include their children in the ceremony – it is hard to know what is ‘appropriate’ and acceptable.

By the giving of a gift afterwards – a necklace, a watch (but NEVER a ring) doesn’t seem ‘enough’ and feels more like a reward than an inclusion.

I found the SAND CEREMONY to be a perfect way of including own children, step or adopted children  – of ANY age into the ‘blending’ of the new family coming together on this the most special day.

When Mommy and Daddy are talking about the wedding everyday – and what needs to be done, children feel excluded.  They are told what they are to wear, how important the day is – and how many friends and all the family will be there – But what does it actually all MEAN?

To older children they are given duties, ringbearer, flowergirl, usher, groomsman, even giving the Bride away.  But even though they are in a role – are they included in the coming together of the two of you – and the new family that is being created at this time….?

Vows can be recited to each other.  Words written to include the children, they hear that this is important, and promises are made.

By the demonstration of the pouring of sand into the container – it is an actual visual and also a keepsake to look at – and know what it means… to say words that are from the heart –

Sand Ceremony containers, sands and all equipment can be purchased from

JDH WEDDINGS

contact@janedayus-hinch.com

website – janedayus-hinch.com

please ask for further details –

or at JDH WEDDING CAFÉ, Oakville. ON