What does the unity candle symbolize?

Unity Candle Ceremony

A favorite wedding tradition is the unity candle ceremony.

There are 3 candles displayed (two taper candles on the outside with a pillar candle in the middle (Representing the bride, the groom and their marriage covenant. The ceremony is called Unity Candle because both candles must come together to create a new light.

Typically at the beginning of the ceremony when the mothers walk down the aisle, they head to the alter/ stage area and light the two outer candles, representing the joining together of both the Bride & Groom families and friends as one.

After vows are exchanged, the bride and groom will take the the taper candle already lit by the mothers and together light the middle pillar candle, symbolizing the two becoming one.