Handfasting Ceremonies

Handfasting is a historical term associated with weddings, originating from the Pagan customs of the Ancient Celts dating back to 7000 BC.

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Handfasting ceremonies hold deep symbolism, encapsulating a profound spiritual union between two individuals.

This ancient ritual signifies the binding of two souls, the intertwining of two families, and the shared journey they embark on together through life.

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Some couples hold a handfasting ceremony that means they are bound together forever.

While some may choose the year and day handfasting ceremony, although neither variation is legally binding in today's context.

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Traditionally handfasting was seen as a precursor for marriage and valid for a year and a day.

Couples would declare their intent to marry and conduct a handfasting ceremony, pledging to stay together for the specified period.

Once the year and a day had elapsed, they faced the choice of either parting ways or solidifying their commitment through the formalisation of their union.

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A handfasting ceremony is a ritual that entails the use of ribbons, fabric, or twine to intricately bind a couple's hands or wrists. The hands are either joined side by side or crossed and then bound together, forming an intricate knot.

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During this symbolic act, the couple express their pledge of intent, love, and commitment to each other while their hands or wrists are intricately bound, often facilitated by one or more of the witnesses.

This physical binding serves as a tangible representation of the couple's profound promises.

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Several types of knots are used in handfasting ceremonies, with the most common types being The Infinity, The Gift, The Drape, The Wrap, The Loose, The Discreet, and The Side by Side.

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The origin of the term 'tying the knot' is thought to be associated with this ritual.

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Couples also exchange a token such a ring or a broken in half gold coin to show their love and commitment to each other. 

A handfasting ceremony is versatile and can be conducted in various settings, both indoors and outdoors.

Traditionally, ceremonies were often held at the bride’s home; they were also conducted in places such as orchards and taverns.

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In contemporary times, handfasting ceremonies commonly occur outdoors, surrounded by nature and wildflowers.

Alternatively, couples may choose a sacred site, creating an enchanting circle of love during a solstice celebration, with guests gathered to witness the special event.

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This provides a unique and meaningful opportunity to engage some of your guests by inviting them to participate in the binding of the ribbons or twine, adding an extra layer of significance to your handfasting ceremony.

You have the option to incorporate traditional sacred wording or express your own heartfelt vows during the handfasting ceremony, allowing you to personalise this meaningful moment according to your preferences.

Whether you choose a brief introduction followed by the handfasting ceremony and a closing speech or decide to integrate additional elements, the content and structure of your ceremony are entirely up to you.

This flexibility ensures a personalised and meaningful experience that resonates with your unique vision.

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When it comes to choosing the colours of your cords, you have the flexibility to match them with your theme or colour scheme.

Alternatively, you can opt for cords based on their meanings and symbolism.

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Keep in mind that interpretations of colours can vary across cultures and traditions.

Your personal beliefs and preferences are pivotal in deciding the symbolism that resonates with you both.

It is important to acknowledge that the significance attached to each colour may differ, and your unique cultural background should guide the selection of symbolic elements for your ceremony.

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For example, consider the following meanings associated with specific colours:

• Black:  Deep meditation, spirituality, protection, success pure love, and elimination of evil powers.

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• Brown:  Nurturing, stability of home and talent.

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• Dark Blue: Strength, longevity, wisdom truth, royalty, and safe journey.

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• Gold: Masculine energy, confidence, creativity, unity, prosperity, richness. Perfection, longevity, and magical power.

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• Green: Children, beauty, home, fertility, health, luck, prosperity, fertility, and peace.

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• Lavender: Spirituality, inspiration, meditation, reversing bad luck, progress, psychic healing, and Counteracting negativity.

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• Light Blue:  Devotion, health, patience, understanding, justice, and femininity.

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• Orange:  Optimism, prosperity, encouragement, stimulation, kindness, success, and good luck.

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• Pink: Partnership, romance, healing, truth honour, unity, and happiness.

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• Red: Sexuality, determination, willpower, passion, and courage.

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• Silver: Rebirth, psychic dreams, creativity, protection, neutrality emotional stability, and neutrality.

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• White: Clairvoyance, wholeness, peace, blessing of God, enlightenment, prophecy, purification, innocence, and sincerity.

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• Yellow: Communication, attraction, harmony, wisdom, charm, and learning.

Below are some elements often included in a handfasting ceremony.

However, feel free to customise your ceremony by including, omitting, or adding anything you wish.

This flexibility allows you to create a ceremony that truly reflects your unique personalities and fulfils your specific wishes for this special occasion.

Ceremony elements may include:

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• Music.

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• Candle lighting.

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• Introduction and Welcome.

• Reading, blessing or prayer.

• Blessing of the couple.

• Calling in of the four elements – Earth, Air, Water and Fire.

• An Invocation.

• Calling in the Four Directions- North, East, South and West.

• Personal pledges or vows.

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• Handfasting.

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• Exchanging of rings, gifts, or tokens.

• The Kiss and Embrace.

• Additional spiritual, or cultural ritual.

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• Speeches, further prayer, or blessing.

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• Closing Words.

I am happy to officiate any type of handfasting ceremony you desire, whether a standalone event or a mini ritual within a larger celebration.

I will tailor your ceremony to your unique preferences, making it a meaningful part of your special day.

Feel free to contact me if you have any questions or to discuss how we can craft a ceremony that is uniquely personal to you.

Complete the enquiry form below or alternatively you can send me an email using the contact page.

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