What to do if you don't want to use a unity candle

 Balloon Release
Balloons filled with helium are placed in a box or under a net. (Make sure it has been secured to the ground.) If the balloons are to be released instead of a unity candle the bride and groom can release the balloons during the ceremony or the balloons can be released instead of throwing rice or birdseed.
Due to the fact that balloons are latex and could be hazardous to the environment.
 please check with local ordinance to see if this ok to do in your county.
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 Communion
If you would like to have a personal communion or include the bridal party or your family and friends speak to your clergy to find out if it a communion is appropriate for your wedding. Please realize that the more people you include the more time consuming.
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Dove or Butterfly Release
Doves are trained to fly one to three circles above your guests then fly away. This can be done as part of the ceremony where the bride and groom open the cage or after the ceremony instead of throwing rice or birdseed. Caution: When ordering butterflies, if the weather is too hot or too cold the butterflies may not survive. Vendors can be found by going online and entering (Dove or Butterfly release) and the name of your state or area where you live.
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Gift or Rose Exchange
This is a special gift for your spouse that you wish to give during the ceremony. The gift can be anything from roses to a bottle of wine to jewelry. If you do not have a gift exchange planned, most officiates will use your rings to symbolize the eternal love as your gift exchange. 
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A Ring Touch
This is where your rings are put into a small net bag that is passed among your family and friends to gather blessings. This can be time consuming and is best done at small weddings. Another option is for the rings to be passed among just your attendants and immediate family.
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SAND GLASS
Both the bride and the groom have a glass of different colored sand. They take turns pouring a little sand at a time into a single glass. This is to represent the two individuals becoming one......Wax beads can be used in place of sand. Having two wicks in the unity glass means that you can light YOUR unity candle at the reception or on your anniversary.
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Wine Ceremony
Red and white wine in separate carafes are set up with a wineglass or "Marriage Glass".  The carafes can be pre-set or carried down the aisle by the mothers. During the time for the unity candle, the bride and groom pore the wine from both carafes into the Marriage Glass. Then the Bride and groom then drink from the glass.