Handfasting: Your questions answered.
Understanding Handfasting Ceremonies
Are you considering incorporating a handfasting ceremony into your wedding? This age-old tradition has become one of the most popular rituals in celebrant-led weddings. Here's everything you need to know about handfasting.
What is Handfasting?
Handfasting, distinct from hand tying, is an ancient ritual with deep roots in Pagan traditions. It has been adapted for use in modern weddings, commitment ceremonies, engagements, and anniversaries. Traditionally, for Pagans, it’s a binding ceremony witnessed by deities, symbolising eternal union. Non-Pagans have also embraced this meaningful ritual, finding personal significance in the act of being bound together.
The term "handfasting" is believed to have Old Norse origins, meaning a pledge made through binding. While historical practices and beliefs about handfasting vary, its essence remains: a deeply symbolic act of union. The ritual often includes the couple’s hands being wrapped with a ribbon or cord, signifying their commitment to each other.
Handfasting Ribbons, Cords, and Bindings
There are no strict rules about what materials to use for handfasting. Ribbons, cords, lace, leather, and even custom-made chains can be used. Personal items, like fabric from a grandparent’s wedding dress or a relative’s tie, add sentimental value, incorporating family members who cannot be present.
Handfasting cords can also be themed to match your wedding’s colours or overall aesthetic. From gothic and dark romance to bright festival colours or even themes inspired by pop culture, the possibilities are endless. Each set of cords is unique, just like each couple.
Performing a Handfasting Ceremony
Handfasting ceremonies are flexible, with no set rules on how they should be performed or what type of knots should be tied. Celebrants often personalise the ceremony to reflect the couple's wishes. During the ceremony, the couple’s hands are bound together using chosen bindings, symbolising their desire to be united for eternity. Family and friends can participate by placing individual ribbons, adding to the ceremony's personal touch.
While modern interpretations might include tying specific knots like unity or lovers' knots, the original tradition focused on the symbolic act of binding rather than the specifics of the knot itself. After the ceremony, the bindings can be kept as a cherished memento, displayed in a frame, or hung above the marital bed.
The Essence of Handfasting
Handfasting is steeped in history, believed to have origins in agreements made by elders or chieftains. Today, it symbolises love and commitment, transcending its historical roots. Whether incorporated into a traditional church wedding or as part of a bespoke celebrant ceremony, handfasting remains a profound and meaningful ritual for couples around the world.
In summary, handfasting is a versatile and deeply personal ceremony that can be tailored to fit any wedding style or theme. Its rich history and symbolic nature make it a unique and memorable addition to your special day.
Interested in having a handfasting at your ceremony?
I have performed handfasting ceremonies and I’m skilled in understanding the subtleties with this ceremony, contact me to discuss how we can incorporate this into your ceremony.