What is handfasting?
Handfasting is a symbolic gesture, made during a wedding ceremony. It involves gently wrapping cords or ribbons around the bride and groom’s clasped hands and tying a knot. This symbolically binds the couple together in their declaration of unity.
The modern-day handfasting ceremony is a revival of the handfastings of yesteryear. It was originally an element of a formal betrothal ceremony (the precursor to today’s engagement), and is thought to go as far back as ancient Celtic Scotland.
During the formal betrothal ceremony, in which a couple makes promises about their future marriage, there was a formal handshake to seal the deal. This was called the 'handfæstung', meaning a pledge by the giving of the hand. The betrothals eventually became so formal that it was an event in itself, which eventually lead up to the wedding ceremony.
If you would like to incorporate handfasting into your wedding get in touch and we can talk through your plans.
The modern-day handfasting ceremony is a revival of the handfastings of yesteryear. It was originally an element of a formal betrothal ceremony (the precursor to today’s engagement), and is thought to go as far back as ancient Celtic Scotland.
During the formal betrothal ceremony, in which a couple makes promises about their future marriage, there was a formal handshake to seal the deal. This was called the 'handfæstung', meaning a pledge by the giving of the hand. The betrothals eventually became so formal that it was an event in itself, which eventually lead up to the wedding ceremony.
If you would like to incorporate handfasting into your wedding get in touch and we can talk through your plans.