Late last year I officiated a beautiful country wedding held on a family property in Margaret River.
The Bride and Groom requested a tree planting ritual as part of their ceremony to symbolize the deepening roots of their relationship, and the continued growth of their love.
A young olive tree was set on a table, with two small pots of soil, two small trowels and a watering can.
When it was time for the tree planting ceremony, the couple each took a trowel and scooped soil into the pot containing the tree while words were read out about strengthening love, growth and nourishment. As the couple held the watering can together and watered their tree for the first time, the words from Captain Corelli’s Mandolin by Louis DeBernieres were read:
“Love is a temporary madness,
it erupts like volcanoes and then subsides.
And when it subsides you have to make a decision.
You have to work out whether your roots have so entwined together that it is inconceivable
that you should ever part. Because this is what love is.
Love is not breathless, it is not excitement,
It is not the promulgation of eternal passion.
That is just being “in love” which any fool can do.
Love itself is what is left over when being in love has burned away,
and that is both an art and a fortunate accident.
Those that truly love have roots that grow towards each other underground, and when all the pretty blossoms have fallen from the branches, they find that they are one tree and not two.”
At the conclusion of the ritual the couple were then reminded to nourish each other, with words of encouragement, trust, and love on a daily basis to enable them each to grow to their fullest potential.
“Take this little olive tree with you when you return home, as a reminder of this day and your commitment to nurture each other today and into your future.”
Find out about other ceremony rituals here.
Wendy xx
Wendy Grace Hendry - Marriage Celebrant 