Tying the knot with a Handfasting

Have some fun with a handfasting

Possibly the oldest wedding custom we have, handfasting is increasingly one of the most memorable moments of a celebrant led wedding ceremony. It’s special because it is symbolic and allows you to tailor the ritual to suit you and your personalities, your hopes and wishes for the future.

What is it?

The handfasting ritual, an ancient Celtic tradition and where the old saying ‘tying the knot’ comes from, sees you standing face to face, as I or a family member join your hands with a special length of material as a symbol of your commitment. The ends of the ribbons are then tied into a knot which must stayed tied for the duration of their relationship. Ribbons can also be braided together if one cord is preferred.

What’s particularly great is that handfasting is for anyone and everyone who desires to have one, regardless of any religious or nonreligious beliefs they may have.

What are the meanings of the colours used in a handfasting ceremony?

Ultimately, the meaning of the colours is whatever they mean to you. You might choose your favourite colours, or colours to match your wedding décor and theme. You might want to choose the colours for their symbolic given meaning. Here are some for your to ponder…

Red: passion, love, lust

Orange: encouragement, attraction, kindness

Yellow: charm, confidence, balance

Green: fertility, prosperity, nurturing

Blue: tranquillity, patience, devotion,

Purple: strength, healing, health

Black: wisdom, vision, success

White: purity, concentration, peace

Grey: neutrality, balance

Pink: unity, truth, romance,

Brown: grounding, talent, home

Silver: protection, creativity, inspiration

Gold: wealth, intelligence, longevity

When do we include it in the ceremony?

Including a handfasting within a wedding ceremony gives the option to say two different sets of vows; one set for the handfasting part, and the second set said before the couple exchange rings. If two sets of vows sounds a little too much for you though, a handfasting can be followed with a handfasting poem such as the ‘Blessing of the Hands’ by Rev. Daniel L. Harris.

The choice – as it’s a celebrant led wedding ceremony - is entirely yours!

If you are keen on this ritual, then I recommend checking out the Tying the Knot Studio. They create bespoke handfasting ribbons and chords with care and expertise.

Image source: Lizzy Hutchinson Photography at Ardington House; and Holly Bobbins Photography at The Swan at Streatley