UNITY SAND CEREMONIES 

The unity sand ceremony is similar to the unity candle ceremony. Instead of using two different candles to light a single candle, however, couples pour different coloured sand from separate containers into one container. The mixing of the sand represents the mixing of the individuals’ lives as one.  The unity sand ceremony, or sand ceremony, has become more popular since the early 2000’s and serves as an alternative to the unity candle ceremony.

Components of the unity sand ceremony are one large vase and two smaller vases/containers that contain coloured sand. The bride and groom pour sand from the small vases into the large vase to produce a lasting memento of their wedding ceremony. Engraving the vases makes them more personal by placing the names of the bride and groom and the wedding date on the large vase, and the name of the groom on one small vase and the name of the bride on the other.

The popularity of the Unity Sand Ceremony skyrocketed in 2004 after the star of the reality show “The Bachelorette”, Trista Rhen, and her fiancé, Ryan Sutter, were married that year on TV. Over 26 million viewers tuned in to watch Trista and Ryan perform the unity sand ceremony. Since then, a thriving marketplace has grown around this concept.

The origin of the ceremony is disputed – many claim that the Native Americans invented it, while others point to Hawaii as the source.  Because of the possible Hawaiian connection and beautiful setting, many couples have their wedding and perform the sand ceremony on the beach.

The unity sand ceremony signifies the uniting of the bride and groom as one. The sand used in the ceremony stands for the two people. When the sand is in the separate vases, it signifies the bride and groom before their marriage, as two different people with no connection. As the couple pour the sand into the large vase, it signifies the marriage ceremony and the two lives coming together. The mingled sand in the vase signifies the marriage, two people that have become one.

The sand ceremony can occur in different ways but usually follows a general form. The bride and groom take turns in pouring sand from their smaller glassware containers into their main receptacle (vase/shadow box, decanter etc.)

It doesn’t matter whether you’re planning a lavish ceremony or something simpler and more intimate… The Unity Sand Ceremony is perfect for any budget and is an inexpensive and elegant way to make sure your wedding celebration leaves you with magical memories that will last a lifetime.

Unity Sand Ceremonies have become increasingly popular in South Africa and SandArt Cape Town has 21 colours of sand available for these ceremonies. The colour chart is available under the Products/Price List icon and is sold in a variety of quantities.

PLEASE NOTE THAT WE ONLY SELL THE COLOURED SAND (20 Colours available) FOR THE CEREMONY.  WE DO NOT SELL THE GLASSWARE.

For more information please contact Jenny on 082 877 7159 or send an email to jenny@sandartcapetown.co.za