Nicole & Gabriele

The history behind the sand ritual suggests that it originated among Native American peoples or in Hawaiian communities in ancient times, linked to both deserts and coastlines. It symbolizes the union of two lives into one, while maintaining one’s individual identity and connection to the land.

The classic sand ritual has the bride and groom pour a small amount of meaningful sand into a common transparent container. The most common version involves two sands with distinct colors, chosen within the color palette provided for the wedding, mixed so that they remain distinguishable in the container.

Each ritual is linked to a natural element, and the sand ritual, in its classic use, is associated with the Earth element, representing fertility, nourishment and strength. If the sand falls in water or on the hands, it is more related to the Air element, symbolizing vital energy, communication, flexibility and lightness.