Wedding ceremonies are one of the most important and memorable moments in a couple’s life, and choosing the right music for your unity candle or sand ceremony can enhance the beauty and sentimental value of the occasion. The unity candle and sand ceremony are two popular rituals during weddings that symbolize the joining of two individuals into one union. The lighting of the unity candle symbolizes the coming together of two lives, while the sand ceremony symbolizes the blending of two families. Both rituals can be made even more special with the right choice of music. Whether you prefer classical, contemporary, or religious songs, there are plenty of options to choose from. In this article, we will take a look at some of the 20 best unity candle and sand ceremony songs that can help make your wedding ceremony even more meaningful and memorable.
1. “Beautiful in My Eyes” by Joshua Kadison
“Beautiful in My Eyes” by Joshua Kadison is a beautiful and romantic love ballad that was released in 1993. The song has a soft, folksy feel and expresses the singer’s admiration and love for his partner, declaring that they are beautiful in his eyes no matter what others may say or think. The lyrics are simple yet touching, and the melody is gentle and uplifting. The song has become a popular choice for wedding ceremonies, particularly during the unity candle or sand ceremony, as it celebrates the deep and unconditional love that a couple shares. “Beautiful in My Eyes” has become a timeless classic, and its enduring popularity is a testament to its ability to evoke emotions and capture the essence of true love.
2. “Sea of Love” by Cat Power
“Sea of Love” by Cat Power is a cover of the classic 1950s song by Phil Phillips. Cat Power’s version has a distinctive, haunting quality that is both powerful and emotional. The song speaks of a deep and abiding love, with lyrics that describe the singer’s devotion and longing for their loved one. The melody is slow and dreamy, with a mournful quality that is both captivating and melancholic. This song has become a popular choice for wedding ceremonies, particularly for the first dance or during the reception. Its delicate yet powerful message of love has a universal appeal that resonates with audiences of all ages. Whether you are looking for a classic song to set the mood for your wedding or simply a beautiful and emotional ballad to enjoy, “Sea of Love” by Cat Power is an excellent choice.
3. “I Do (Cherish You)” by 98 degrees
“I Do (Cherish You)” by 98 Degrees is a romantic love ballad that was released in 1999. The song has a smooth R&B feel, and the lyrics express the singer’s deep devotion and commitment to their partner. The melody is upbeat and cheerful, making it an ideal choice for a wedding ceremony. This song has become a popular choice for weddings, particularly for the first dance or during the unity candle or sand ceremony. Its message of love and commitment is timeless, and its upbeat and cheerful melody is sure to put a smile on the faces of both the bride and groom and their guests. Whether you are looking for a song that will bring a sense of joy and excitement to your wedding ceremony or simply want to express your love for your partner in a memorable way, “I Do (Cherish You)” is an excellent choice.
4. “I Chose You” by Caleb Edens
“I Chose You” by Caleb Edens is a heartfelt and emotional love ballad that was released in 2015. The song speaks of a love that has grown and matured over time, and the lyrics express the singer’s gratitude and joy for having found the person they love. The melody is soft and gentle, with a delicate acoustic guitar backing that provides a warm and intimate feel. This song has become a popular choice for wedding ceremonies, particularly during the unity candle or sand ceremony. Its message of love and commitment is powerful, and its tender and intimate melody is sure to evoke emotions and touch the hearts of everyone in attendance. Whether you are looking for a song that will express the depth of your love for your partner or simply want to create a memorable and romantic moment during your wedding ceremony, “I Chose You” by Caleb Edens is an excellent choice.
5. “Grow Old Along With Me” by Mary Chapin Carpenter
“Grow Old Along with Me” by Mary Chapin Carpenter is a beautiful and sentimental love ballad that was released in 1994. The song speaks of a love that will endure over time and the lyrics express the singer’s hope and desire to grow old with the person they love. The melody is soft and gentle, with a warm and intimate feel that is perfect for a wedding ceremony. This song has become a popular choice for wedding ceremonies, particularly for the first dance or during the unity candle or sand ceremony. Its message of love and commitment is powerful, and its tender and intimate melody is sure to evoke emotions and create a special moment that will be remembered for years to come. Whether you are looking for a song that will express the depth of your love for your partner or simply want to create a memorable and romantic moment during your wedding ceremony, “Grow Old Along with Me” by Mary Chapin Carpenter is an excellent choice.
6. “I Would, I Could, I Do (Duet)” by Treela
“I Would, I Could, I Do (Duet)” by Treela is a charming and romantic duet that was released in 2018. The song speaks of a love that is strong, deep, and unwavering, and the lyrics express the singers’ commitment and devotion to each other. The melody is upbeat and cheerful, with a warm and intimate feel that is perfect for a wedding ceremony. This song has become a popular choice for wedding ceremonies, particularly for the first dance or during the unity candle or sand ceremony. Its message of love and commitment is powerful, and its upbeat and cheerful melody is sure to put a smile on the faces of both the bride and groom and their guests. Whether you are looking for a song that will bring a sense of joy and excitement to your wedding ceremony or simply want to express your love for your partner in a memorable way, “I Would, I Could, I Do (Duet)” by Treela is an excellent choice.
7. “What a Wonderful World” by Bob Thiele
“What a Wonderful World” by Bob Thiele is a classic and timeless song that was originally released in 1967. The song speaks of the beauty of the world and the simple joys of life, and its upbeat melody and positive message make it an ideal choice for a wedding ceremony. The song has been covered by many artists over the years, but its timeless message of hope, love, and happiness remains unchanged. This song has become a popular choice for wedding ceremonies, particularly for the first dance or during the unity candle or sand ceremony. Its message of love and appreciation for the world around us is powerful, and its upbeat and cheerful melody is sure to bring a sense of joy and excitement to your wedding ceremony. Whether you are looking for a song that will express your love for each other and the world or simply want to create a memorable and happy moment during your wedding ceremony, “What a Wonderful World” is an excellent choice.
8. “Hallelujah” by Jeff Buckley
“Hallelujah” by Jeff Buckley is a powerful and emotional song that was originally released in 1994. The song, written by Leonard Cohen, speaks of love, devotion, and the search for meaning and redemption. The melody is haunting and beautiful, with Jeff Buckley’s unique vocal stylings adding a deep emotional intensity to the song. This song has become a popular choice for wedding ceremonies, particularly during the processional or during a particularly poignant moment during the ceremony. Its message of love and devotion, combined with its beautiful melody, make it an excellent choice for a wedding ceremony. Whether you are looking for a song that will express the depth of your love for each other or simply want to create a memorable and meaningful moment during your wedding ceremony, “Hallelujah” by Jeff Buckley is an excellent choice.
9. “Can’t Help Falling in Love” by G. Weiss, H. Peretti & L. Creatore
“Can’t Help Falling in Love” by G. Weiss, H. Peretti & L. Creatore is a timeless and romantic classic that was originally released in 1961. The song speaks of falling deeply and irrevocably in love, and its tender melody and heartfelt lyrics make it an ideal choice for a wedding ceremony. This song has been covered by many artists over the years, but its timeless message of love and devotion remains unchanged. This song has become a popular choice for wedding ceremonies, particularly for the first dance or during the unity candle or sand ceremony. Its message of love and devotion is powerful, and its tender and romantic melody is sure to bring a sense of joy and excitement to your wedding ceremony. Whether you are looking for a song that will express the depth of your love for each other or simply want to create a memorable and happy moment during your wedding ceremony, “Can’t Help Falling in Love” is an excellent choice.
10. “Thinking Out Loud” by Ed Sheeran
“Thinking Out Loud” by Ed Sheeran is a modern and romantic ballad that was released in 2014. The song speaks of love that stands the test of time and lasts a lifetime, and its soulful melody and heartfelt lyrics make it an ideal choice for a wedding ceremony. Ed Sheeran’s powerful vocal performance adds a deep emotional intensity to the song, making it a popular choice for wedding ceremonies, particularly for the first dance or during the unity candle or sand ceremony. The song’s message of love and devotion is powerful, and its tender and romantic melody is sure to bring a sense of joy and excitement to your wedding ceremony. Whether you are looking for a song that will express the depth of your love for each other or simply want to create a memorable and happy moment during your wedding ceremony, “Thinking Out Loud” is an excellent choice.
11. “One + One” by Lawson Bates feat. Olivia Collingsworth
“One + One” by Lawson Bates feat. Olivia Collingsworth is a contemporary and uplifting song that was released in 2021. The song speaks of the joy of being together and the strength that comes from love, and its upbeat melody and positive lyrics make it an ideal choice for a wedding ceremony. The collaboration between Lawson Bates and Olivia Collingsworth adds a unique and dynamic feel to the song, making it a popular choice for wedding ceremonies, particularly for the first dance or during the unity candle or sand ceremony. The song’s message of love and unity is powerful, and its joyful and upbeat melody is sure to bring a sense of happiness and excitement to your wedding ceremony. Whether you are looking for a song that will express the depth of your love for each other or simply want to create a memorable and positive moment during your wedding ceremony, “One + One” is an excellent choice.
12. “Everything I Do” by Bryan Adams
“Everything I Do” by Bryan Adams is a classic and romantic ballad that was released in 1991. The song speaks of the lengths one will go for love, and its touching melody and heartfelt lyrics make it an ideal choice for a wedding ceremony. Bryan Adams’ powerful vocal performance adds a deep emotional intensity to the song, making it a popular choice for wedding ceremonies, particularly for the first dance or during the unity candle or sand ceremony. The song’s message of love and devotion is powerful, and its tender and romantic melody is sure to bring a sense of joy and excitement to your wedding ceremony. Whether you are looking for a song that will express the depth of your love for each other or simply want to create a memorable and happy moment during your wedding ceremony, “Everything I Do” is an excellent choice.
13. “This I Promise You” by N Sync
“This I Promise You” by NSYNC is a pop ballad that was released in 2000. The song speaks of the promises of love and the lengths one will go for their partner, and its emotional melody and heartfelt lyrics make it an ideal choice for a wedding ceremony. NSYNC’s smooth vocal harmonies add a unique and dynamic feel to the song, making it a popular choice for wedding ceremonies, particularly for the first dance or during the unity candle or sand ceremony. The song’s message of love and commitment is powerful, and its tender and romantic melody is sure to bring a sense of joy and excitement to your wedding ceremony. Whether you are looking for a song that will express the depth of your love for each other or simply want to create a memorable and positive moment during your wedding ceremony, “This I Promise You” is an excellent choice.
14. “Make You Feel My Love” by Adele
“Make You Feel My Love” by Adele is a soulful ballad that was originally recorded by Bob Dylan in 1997. Adele’s powerful and emotive rendition of the song was released in 2008, and has since become a popular choice for wedding ceremonies. The song speaks of the lengths one will go to make their loved one happy and its tender melody and heartfelt lyrics make it an ideal choice for a wedding ceremony. Adele’s soulful voice adds a deep emotional intensity to the song, making it a popular choice for wedding ceremonies, particularly for the first dance or during the unity candle or sand ceremony. The song’s message of love and devotion is powerful, and its tender and romantic melody is sure to bring a sense of joy and excitement to your wedding ceremony. Whether you are looking for a song that will express the depth of your love for each other or simply want to create a memorable and happy moment during your wedding ceremony, “Make You Feel My Love” is an excellent choice.
15. “Could I Love You Any More” by Reneé Dominique feat. Jason Mraz
“Could I Love You Any More” by Reneé Dominique featuring Jason Mraz is a soft and soothing ballad that perfectly captures the essence of true love. With its gentle acoustic guitar, sweet melodies, and touching lyrics, the song has become a popular choice for wedding ceremonies. The lyrics express the singer’s love for their significant other and the lengths they will go to show it, making it an ideal choice for a wedding ceremony that is centered around love and commitment. Jason Mraz’s soulful and passionate vocals, combined with Reneé Dominique’s smooth and gentle voice, make this song a beautiful and memorable choice for a wedding ceremony. Whether you are looking for a song to play during the unity candle or sand ceremony, or as a first dance, “Could I Love You Any More” is sure to set the tone for a romantic and intimate celebration of love.
16. “Because You Loved Me” by Celine Dion
“Because You Loved Me” by Celine Dion is a powerful and emotional ballad that speaks to the depth of love and gratitude. The song’s lyrics express the singer’s appreciation for someone who has stood by them through thick and thin, and have given them the strength to face life’s challenges. With its soaring vocals and beautiful orchestration, the song has become a popular choice for wedding ceremonies. Whether you’re looking for a song to play during the ceremony or as a first dance, “Because You Loved Me” is sure to evoke a sense of love and gratitude, and to set the tone for a romantic and intimate celebration of your love story. Whether you’re looking for a song that will bring a tear to your eye, or simply a beautiful piece of music to accompany your wedding ceremony, “Because You Loved Me” is sure to fit the bill.
17. “Amazing Grace” by Terri Geisel
“Amazing Grace” by Terri Geisel is a soulful and powerful rendition of the beloved Christian hymn. The song’s lyrics speak to the mercy and forgiveness offered by God through his grace, and to the transformative power of redemption. With its simple and timeless melody, “Amazing Grace” has become a staple of religious services, including weddings. Whether you’re looking for a song to play during the ceremony or to sing as part of a religious service, “Amazing Grace” is sure to evoke a sense of reverence and awe, and to touch your soul with its message of hope and love. Whether you’re looking for a song that will inspire and uplift, or simply a beautiful piece of music to accompany your wedding ceremony, “Amazing Grace” is sure to fit the bill.
18. “A Thousand Years” by Christina Perri
“A Thousand Years” by Christina Perri is a delicate and emotional ballad that has become one of the most popular wedding songs in recent years. With its tender lyrics and sweeping melody, the song speaks to the timeless nature of love, and to the idea that true love can withstand even the most challenging of circumstances. The song’s slow, steady pace makes it a perfect choice for a wedding ceremony, and its powerful and poignant message is sure to resonate with everyone in attendance. Whether you’re looking for a song to play during the procession, the unity candle lighting, or the first dance, “A Thousand Years” is sure to be a beautiful and meaningful addition to your wedding celebration.
19. “Forever and For Always” by Shania Twain
“Forever and For Always” is a song by Canadian singer-songwriter Shania Twain. It was released as a single from her 2002 album “Up!”. This romantic ballad is about a couple’s love and commitment to each other, and the lyrics express the singer’s promise to always love and cherish her partner, no matter what challenges they may face. With its slow and tender melody, and Twain’s powerful vocals, “Forever and For Always” is a touching and emotional tribute to the power of true love. It’s a popular choice for weddings, and has been used in many different settings, from ceremony processions to first dance songs.
20. “Wedding Song (There Is Love)” by Peter, Paul & Mary
“Wedding Song (There Is Love)” is a classic love ballad by the famous folk trio, Peter, Paul & Mary. This song has been a staple at weddings for generations and has become synonymous with the joy and romance of tying the knot. With its gentle melody and heartwarming lyrics, it’s easy to see why “Wedding Song (There Is Love)” remains a popular choice for couples on their special day. The song’s message of everlasting love, commitment and devotion make it a perfect addition to any wedding ceremony, making it a timeless and beautiful tribute to the love shared between two people.
Jason Smith is a frequent contributor to Singers Room. Since 2005, Singersroom has been the voice of R&B around the world. Connect with us via social media below.
