Tree Planting Ceremony: Wedding Day Traditions

For our latest installment on wedding day traditions, we wanted to cover the concept of a tree-planting ceremony. A tree-planting ceremony is a great way to add an extra layer of intimacy and depth to your wedding day that will last for years to come and serve as a beautiful reminder of your important day. 

What Is A Tree Planting Ceremony?

This ceremony covers you on two bases; firstly, it's eco-friendly! And secondly, it's an ancient tradition if you want something classic and traditional at your wedding ceremony. A tree-planting ceremony is just what the name implies, planting a tree as a symbol of the love & life you and your partner are growing with each other every day over time. It's also symbolic of the idea that planting a tree is a sign of creating something new together in this world by planting a tree that will grow over time, just like your relationship.

Why Should I Choose A Tree Planting Ceremony?

With more couples opting for backyard weddings, a tree-planting ceremony can be a unique extra touch for your wedding day. Planting a tree together in your home is a lovely way to remember your wedding day moving forward in life. However, a tree ceremony can be carried out anywhere. You can take the tree in a pot to your wedding ceremony and then take it home with you afterward to plant it in a place that may be special to both of you as a couple.

For this specific ceremony, there are multiple options for how you want it to play it out, and we'd suggest having a chat with your officiant to discuss the best way to do it, but we'll give you a quick run through plus some of the options you can interchange. Also, keep in mind that if you'd prefer, you can have this take place at your wedding reception rather than your ceremony. The choice is yours.

How Does A Tree Planting Ceremony Work?

Firstly, your officiant will give your guests a run-through of what's about to occur and the meaning behind it that fits you and your partner precisely. The officiant will also explain what type of tree you've chosen and why. Next, you'll have your potted tree on a small table near or off to the side of the altar. This is where you and your partner will 'plant the tree' together by adding soil from the containers of soil and water from the watering can. Some couples choose to have their officiant talk throughout this process, while others might play some music with meaning as a soundtrack to the ceremony or read out a poem. It's totally up to you and your partner how you'll carry that side of things out. There are a few options here; you can plant a pre-potted tree by adding soil and water, or you could choose the sapling of a tree and directly plant it into the ground, or a pot, depending on where your ceremony is held.

What you'll need for a tree-planting ceremony:

• Two decorated containers of soil. You can get these from anywhere and decorate them to match your wedding theme—places such as supermarkets, Bunnings, etc. You can purchase the soil from the same places too.
• A watering can + water. (for the water, it could be a good idea to take the watering can on its own + a bottle of water, and fill the can up at your venue. While the venue will always have their water, pre-planning is always a good idea, just in case!)
• A small table to carry out the tree planting ceremony.
• A potted tree.

Optional extras: Two small shovels to avoid getting your hands (and dress!) dirty.

The type of tree you choose will be totally up to you and a matter of personal choice and meaning. Every tree is considered to have its specific symbology and significance. For example, oak trees represent life, family, and unity, while maple trees symbolize longevity and protection. Apple trees are symbolic of love and fertility, while willow trees are thought of as showcasing renewal. One big thing to consider beforehand is the climate you'll be placing the tree in to make sure it'll grow adequately, so you might need to do some research into the specific tree you end up choosing for your ceremony. Some couples opt to choose trees that have already have prior meaning to them, such as a type of tree that reminds them of a date they've been on or a loved one; there are so many choices here but ultimately come down to personal preference.

We'd love to hear from you if this is something you're considering or if this is something you've already done at your wedding! Let us know in the comments below.