Many Tulsa wedding venues are seeing all kinds of additions to the wedding ceremony. Some are new but some are old or variations of old traditions. Most of these symbolize the two becoming one, but they each have a significant meaning and twist. Below you will find a short list of some of the traditions that are popping up at many Tulsa wedding venues.
Tying the Knot
Tying the Knot – Tying the Knot dates back to the 19th century with sailors who tied knots as partially an art form. This particular knot is called the lover’s knot. It is the strongest knot there is and will never break but only become tighter under pressure. It symbolizes the two becoming one, and how your union will become stronger under trials. For a more information on tying the knot ceremony, visit this unique website at dayofdreams.com.
Sand Ritual
Sand Ritual – The Sand Ritual is fairly new on the wedding ceremony scene. Basically, the bride and groom each have a different colored sand and they each pour, or layer, their sand together into one clear jar. It symbolizes the two becoming one and the blending effect of each other’s lives. It can also be practical for outdoor weddings above say the unity candle because it isn’t affected by the wind, and it can become a keepsake after the wedding. This ritual can be changed and personalized in many ways as you can see from this extensive explanation at howstuffworks.com.
Jumping the Broom
Jumping the Broom – This ancient tradition began in the African culture in the 1600’s but was also found in other cultures such as the Celtics. Even though it is ancient, the significance is simple and beautiful as it symbolizes the bride and groom jumping into a new life together and sweeping away their former lives. It can be a festive and meaningful addition to any wedding ceremony. Check out celebrateintimateweddings.com for more ideas.
Tree Planting
Tree Planting – There is a saying that, “He who plants a tree, plants hope.” That is essentially what the tree planting ceremony is at a wedding. It is the symbol and promise of hope for the future of the two becoming one. This is also known as The Wedding Tree. The bride and groom each bring a bucket of their own soil to add to the planting of the tree. They add the soil to the tree or they plant the tree together depending on the situation and location of their ceremony. What type of tree used is totally up to the bride and groom and might have a significant meaning to them. Sacredweddingvows.com gives many suggestions and options on how to incorporate this ritual into your own ceremony.
Stone Blessings
Stone Blessings – If you want to include your friends and guests into a part of your ceremony, opt for the Blessing Stones. When your guests arrive, they are each given a smooth stone and a card to write a blessing for the bridge and groom. The wedding officiant will explain the purpose of the stone and card during the ceremony and encourage the guests to write down a blessing during the ceremony. At the conclusion of the ceremony, the guests drop the stones into a special bowl and put the cards into another vessel. Both of these will become a treasure for the new couple as they read the blessings from their friends and have a visual reminder of everyone’s love and support. This is quickly becoming popular as it incorporates the inclusion of your guests into your ceremony. More on the Blessing Stone can be found here.
Whatever you choose, make sure to make it uniquely your own. All of these are well-known and steeped in tradition but they can also be personalized to fit your special day. Most Tulsa wedding venues will strive to make your dream wedding day come true and help you accommodate your unique tradition into your ceremony.