Why Choose A Symbolic Gesture Anyway?
A humanist wedding ceremony is more than just words of commitment – it’s a moment of deep meaning, shared with those you love most. That’s why so many couples choose to include symbolic gestures, adding layers of significance to their vows and creating memories that last a lifetime. Whether you opt for just one or weave in several, these rituals beautifully express the commitment you’re making to each other and can be fully personalised to reflect your unique love story.
They’re also a wonderful way to bring family and friends into the heart of your ceremony, allowing them to play an active role in your journey.
Handfasting is a popular choice, but there are plenty of other meaningful options. You might share a drink from the quaich, blend sands in a unity ceremony, light a candle, or jump the broom. Some couples plant a tree, hold an oathing stone, warm their rings with guests’ blessings, or embrace traditions like the Mexican hug, flower exchanges, or releasing doves.
What’s So Important About Spices?
But one of the most unique and sensory-rich gestures I’ve ever seen is a little something I created for a couple who shared a passion for cooking: The Spice Ceremony. We all know that flowers have their own language, but did you know that spices and herbs do too? Each one holds a special meaning:
🌿 Feverfew – A close bond, “You light up my life”
💜 Lavender – Trust and devotion
🍃 Bay – Success and wisdom
🧄 Chives – Longevity
🌿 Marjoram – Happiness in marriage
🌱 Mint – Virtue and hospitality
🌿 Oregano – Fortune and abundance
🍃 Sage – Wisdom
🍂 Cinnamon – Luck
🌶️ Cumin – Fidelity
⭐ Star Anise – Balance in relationships
🍂 Cardamom – Love and romance (often used in love potions!)
🫚 Ginger – Wealth
🌿 Basil – Love (In Italian tradition, a single woman would place a pot of basil on her balcony when she was ready for love!)
How Does A Spice Ceremony Work?
When planning a ceremony for my two chef lovebirds, it became clear that their shared passion for cooking and creating delicious meals had to be part of their big day.
Inspired by the enchanting scene in Sleeping Beauty where fairies present their magical gifts, we decided to do something similar – but with spices!
As guests arrived, they were invited to choose a spice from a beautifully arranged display at the entrance. Each spice symbolised a different wish for the couple’s marriage.
When the moment came, we had a stunning Moroccan spice jar at the ready. One by one, guests stepped forward and added their chosen spice, saying a few words about the meaning behind it:
“I give you cardamom for love,” “I offer sage for wisdom,” and so on.
By the end, the jar was filled with a fragrant, colourful blend of good wishes and blessings from their loved ones. And the best part? The couple could use the spices in their cooking, making every meal a reminder of the love and support surrounding them.
Is a Spice Ceremony Right for You?
This ritual works beautifully in intimate weddings, where each guest can take part without the ceremony running too long (150 guests might be a bit much for this one!). But if you’re looking for a meaningful, sensory-rich way to honour your relationship and involve your guests, a spice ceremony is a fantastic choice.
Because let’s be honest—who doesn’t love a little spice in their life?
Blog written by Lucy Haden, Fuze Ceremonies Celebrant
