Veil, Cord, Candle & Coins - Roles, Options, and When They Happen

Veil, Cord, Candle, and Coins in Filipino Weddings

These four symbols sit at the heart of many Filipino ceremonies. Each one marks a promise in action—unity, protection, guidance, and shared provision—and they’re usually entrusted to secondary sponsors who know the couple well.

What Each Symbol Means

• Veil
  A light mantle draped over the couple, often from shoulder to shoulder, symbolizing shelter and shared life.

• Cord
  A loop or figure-eight yugal placed over the veil, signifying a bond that is strong and enduring.

• Candle
  A flame representing light for the home and the divine presence that guides a new household.

• Coins / Arrhae
  A set of coins given and received, reflecting stewardship, generosity, and shared resources.

If your program includes a formal march, the timing of sponsor entrances and when each symbol is presented aligns well with this processional reference.

When They Happen in the Program

Most rites place the veil and cord after vows or before the final blessing, while the candle and coins vary by tradition. In Catholic weddings, the arrhae commonly appears after the exchange of rings; in some Christian ceremonies, unity candles replace arrhae or appear alongside it. Civil ceremonies may adapt these as cultural elements—ask your officiant where they fit best, then confirm during rehearsal.

For smooth sequencing, a reliable day-of team can cue sponsors, manage kneeler placement, and coordinate with the officiant.

Who Carries the Symbols

Secondary sponsors typically carry the items and assist the officiant:

• Veil Sponsors gently drape the fabric and secure discreet pins or combs.
• Cord Sponsors place the yugal and remove it after prayers.
• Candle Sponsors handle lighters, wind shields, and safety.
• Coin Sponsor presents the arrhae and returns it to the couple’s safekeeping.

If you’re matching the tone with the rest of your entourage, it helps to brief sponsors alongside your principal sponsor plans.

Options and Materials

• Veils: Soft tulle, organza, or piña; pearl pins keep things gentle on hair.
• Cords: Twined rope, rosary-style beads, or woven inabel for regional flair.
• Candles: Tapers or a unity set with wind shields for outdoor venues.
• Arrhae: Classic coins in a small box, heirloom sets, or custom-minted pieces.

Texture and styling elevate the ritual. Aesthetic choices—like floral accents on candle stands, or a woven yugal—come together with creative stylists for ceremony spaces. For keepsake-quality sets, look to accessory ateliers for arrhae and unity pieces.

Practical Tips for Rehearsal

• Walk-through: Practice the drape and the loop; confirm who stands where.
• Safety: Keep a windproof lighter and glass sleeve for candles.
• Hair & attire: Avoid snag points; brief veil sponsors about pins and placements.
• Photos: Hold the moment. Ask the officiant to pause a beat so every gesture is captured.

To help your camera team, share a few priority frames from this portrait and candid checklist before the day.

Bringing It All Together

When sponsors know their timing and the symbols feel personal, the rites land with quiet power. A coordinator can keep cues crisp, stylists can stage the space beautifully, and accessory makers can craft sets that outlast the day. For the bigger picture on roles, etiquette, and the order of march, the complete entourage guide connects these rites with the rest of your ceremony flow.