So what’s it all about?
I often get asked what a handfasting is.
Do you remember when Prince William married Kate Middleton? Although the ceremony was religious, they briefly incorporated a ritual that resembled a handfasting. The Archbishop draped ribbons over the clasped hands of the couple.
So much else was going on that it attracted little attention. In fact, a handfasting is technically pagan, and can play a central role in pagan ceremonies.
However, it is often chosen as an “add-on” in a more traditional wedding.
A number of brides and grooms are intrigued by this and have decided to incorporate this in their wedding.
Of course, it can be included in a Vow Renewal too.
History
Handfastings began as a marriage rite in the Middle Ages. When peasants married, they might have been unable to afford a clergyman’s fee to hear their vows or a ring to signify their love. The ritual of handfasting became a popular alternative.
A cord was wrapped round the wrists of the couple and left on until their union was consummated. It would usually be kept as a tangible reminder and proof of their commitment and love.
It has given us the expression “tying the knot”.
Present-day Ceremony
Nowadays, the cord symbolises the pair’s mutual love. The way a handfasting can be slipped in to a service is as follows. Please note that this is only a suggestion, and it will be rather different for a pagan ceremony.
- Walking down the aisle to be given away by a parent
- Celebrant welcome
- Meaning of love (possibly from a religious slant, if that’s wanted)
- Here, or after the Handfasting, or at both times, a song or a reading/poem
- Handfasting
- Possibly, a Unity Candle or Sand Ceremony or Chalice ritual
- Exchange of Rings/Vows
- Jumping the Broom (not actually pagan, but deriving from wedding ceremonies conducted by slaves in the American South), now used to symbolise sweeping in the new as a new home is created
- Concluding words
Thoughts
I conducted a memorable handfasting at an Iron Age Fort in Wiltshire. The ceremony was part-pagan, part-Jewish with rituals from both sides. (Of course, the symbolism was explained as we went along.)
It was a totally unique occasion – absolutely perfect for the couple and – clearly – for the guests too.
Another example was when I shared a wonderful experience with an American couple at Stonehenge at the time of the solstice – and that was quite unforgettable!
Otherwise, I have performed handfastings indoors, and they were just as satisfying!
To add extra sparkle and personality to your big day, do find out about a handfasting. It will be a pleasure for me to tell you more.
Photo: www.lyndseygoddard.com
Please check out my improved YouTube channel and subscribe! https://www.youtube.com/channel/UC1wWfxIZw0VpZLbHrJAbV6A?view_as=subscriber