Who's Heard of a Hand Ceremony?

i don't know exactly when i learned of the "hand ceremony" but as soon as i read it, i was sold!

it's basically an alternative to the ever popular sand or unity candle ceremonies, but is a little

different in it's purpose.  the sand and unity candle ceremonies focus on two lives becoming one.  while i love the significance and symbolism of those, i've grown accustomed to seeing them in every wedding i attend now a days.

photo source here

the hand ceremony can be inserted just before the exchange of rings since there is such a heavy emphasis placed on the hands

here's an example:

"Marriage is the clasping of hands, the blending of hearts, the union of two lives as one.

Marriage is caring as much about the welfare and happiness of you marriage partner as your own, it is not total absorption into each other; it is looking outward in the same direction together." source

and here's the actual ceremony wording from a member of brides.com

"bride if you would face groom and hold his hands, palms up, so you may see the gift that they are to you.

these are the hands of your best friend, young and strong and vibrant with love, that are holding your on your wedding day, as he promises to love you all the days of his life.

these are the hand that will work along side yours, as together you build you future, as you laugh and cry, as you share your innermost hopes and dreams.

these are the hands that look so large and strong, yet will be so gentle as he holds your child for the first time.

these are the hands that will work long hours for you and your new family.

these are the hands that will countless times wipe the tears from your eyes: tears of sorrow and tears of joy.

these are the hands that will comfort you in illness, 

and hold you when fear or grief overwhelm you.

these are the hands that will tenderly lift your chin and brush your cheek as they raise your face to look into his eyes; eyes that are filled completely with his 

overwhelming love and desire for you.

groom if you would now hold your bride's hands, palms up, so that you may see the gift they are to you.

these are the hands of you best friend, smooth, young and carefree, and they are holding yours on your wedding day, as she promises to love you all the days of her life.

these are the hands that will hold each child in tender love, 

soothing them through illness and hurt, supporting and encouraging them along the way, 

and knowing when it is time to let them go.

these are the hands that will hold you tight as you struggle through difficult times.

these are the hands that will comfort you when you are sick, 

or console you when you are grieving.

they are the hands that will passionately love you and cherish you through the years, 

for a lifetime of happiness.

these are the hands that will give you support as she encourages you to chase down you dreams. together as a team, everything you hope for can be realized."

while i might change the wording around, the visual imagery of it as a whole is very cool.

what ceremony traditions have you scrapped to find other options to make your wedding uniquely yours?

ps. if anyone has alternative wording for this ceremony, i'd love to know what it is!