Handfasting: A Beautifully Symbolic Wedding Ritual
No one knows precisely where handfasting began, but it’s a tradition that has stood the test of time across many cultures.
The version most commonly practised today is thought to come from Celtic origins, possibly as far back as 7000 B.C. Initially, it was a trial marriage lasting a year and a day—like an ancient “let’s see how this goes” agreement.
A couple would have their hands bound together with cloth or cords, symbolizing their union. After the twelve months, they’d either commit to marriage (making the handfasting their wedding) or decide to part ways, no hard feelings.
In Pagan and Wiccan traditions, handfasting can make up an entire wedding ceremony, led by a High Priest or Priestess, with vows centred around love, respect, and honour.
But today, it’s a beautiful, flexible ritual that can be added to any ceremony—regardless of beliefs or background—making it a meaningful and personal way to tie the knot (literally!).
What Do the Colours Mean?
There are no strict rules regarding the number of cords or colours to use. Some couples pick them based on symbolism, while others match them to their wedding theme. Colour meanings can vary, but here’s a mix of traditional interpretations:
💖 Red – Love, passion, strength, courage
🧡 Orange – Kindness, attraction, creativity
💛 Yellow – Joy, confidence, harmony
💚 Green – Fertility, prosperity, health, luck
💙 Blue – Devotion, sincerity, patience
💜 Purple – Power, healing, sentimentality
🤍 White – Peace, truth, meditation
🌫️ Grey – Balance, neutrality, wisdom
💕 Pink – Unity, romance, happiness
🤎 Brown – Grounding, stability, home
✨ Silver – Inspiration, protection, vision
💛 Gold – Wealth, longevity, strength
Want personalised ribbons for your day? I can sort that for you!
How Does a Handfasting Ceremony Work?
Handfasting can happen before, during, or after your vows—whatever feels right. Here’s how I usually run it:
1️⃣ I gently place each ribbon or cord over your joined hands, explaining their meaning as we go.
2️⃣ I then wrap the ribbons around your hands and tie a knot over the top. This is a beautiful moment for you to say your vows or words of commitment.
3️⃣ I love using the infinity knot, symbolizing eternity and connection.
4️⃣ Then comes the moment you literally “Tie the Knot”—you each pull the ends of the cords, securing your bond in front of your loved ones.
After the ceremony, your handfasting cords make a gorgeous keepsake—display them on the top table at your reception or keep them as a reminder of your promises to each other.
Say ‘I Do’ Your Way!
I specialise in fun, relaxed, and meaningful ceremonies, perfect for outdoor, rustic, and barn weddings. Let's chat if you would love to add handfasting to your big day!
Let’s make your ceremony one to remember!
