Adding something extra to your ceremony

A Celebrant led ceremony can open up a world of possibilities

You may want to include a custom from another country or culture in your ceremony.  Here are just a couple of ideas you might like.

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Tasting the four elements

Tasting the four elements is a tradition taken from the Yoruba culture. The four tastes are sour, bitter, hot and sweet. Traditionally they are vinegar, lemon, cayenne pepper and honey, however different foodstuffs can be used.

Each element represents a different aspect of a couple’s life together.

sour - acknowledges that there will be disappointments as well as successes, but the couple will offer each other love and support.

bitter - every life experiences denial and rejection but each can offer guidance and wisdom.

hot - for the spice and passion in an enduring relationship

sweet - the abundance of life in all its stages.
 

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Facing the four directions

This ritual has its roots in Native American culture. During the ceremony the couple turn to face each point of the compass.

East - communication of the heart, mind and body, fresh beginnings with each sun rise. The light created as the sun rises lightens the darkness.

South - the warmth of home, the spirit of growth and warm, gentle and refreshing breezes.

West- the elements of water, the deep commitment of lakes, the swift excitement of rivers, the cleansing of rain, the passion of the sea.

North - firm foundations to build on to build a happy and successful union.