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Saying \u201cI do\u201d is a magical moment and many couples look for ways to make the occasion more meaningful and symbolic. One option is a <\/span>handfasting ceremony<\/span>, an ancient tradition that uses a ribbon to tie the <\/span>couple\u2019s hands<\/span> together in a symbol of unity.<\/span><\/p>\n In this article, you\u2019ll learn more about the history and significance of <\/span>handfasting ceremonies<\/span>. We\u2019ll also show you how to plan one with an easy step-by-step guide. Plus, you\u2019ll find suggestions for incorporating personal touches and making the ceremony memorable.<\/span> A <\/span>handfasting ceremony<\/span> is a ritual where the couple’s hands are tied together using a ribbon or cord. The exact<\/span> origins of handfasting traditions<\/strong><\/span><\/a> are murky since this practice is seen in various cultures, including Chinese and <\/span>Celtic<\/span> communities. It was traditionally used in <\/span>Wiccan<\/span> and <\/span>Pagan<\/span> wedding ceremonies<\/span> but has become trendier in recent years.\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n Today, you\u2019ll see this <\/span>unity ritual<\/span> as part of secular and religious weddings across the globe. From <\/span>British<\/span>, <\/span>Irish<\/span>, and American couples to communities in Asia and Latin America, handfasting lets <\/span>celebrants<\/span> symbolize their love in a special ceremony.\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n Handfasting ceremonies<\/span> play an important role in many communities. In China, the Red Thread of Fate is a legend where the god of marriage tied an invisible red string between the ankles of couples who were destined to get married. In ceremonies, couples tie a red thread around their hands and fingers in honor of this legend.<\/span><\/p>\n In <\/span>Scotland<\/span> and <\/span>Ireland<\/span>, the <\/span>ancient Celtic tradition<\/span> of handfasting dates back thousands of years. A couple went before a priest, who tied a braided red cord around their arms. This <\/span>Celtic handfasting<\/span> showed others that they were <\/span>betrothed<\/span>. Over the years, the Celts incorporated this tradition into the actual <\/span>wedding ceremony.<\/span> The cord was used to tie the <\/span>couple\u2019s hands<\/span> together as a symbol of unity.\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n The phrase \u201ctying the knot\u201d comes specifically from this practice of tying hands together in a symbolic ceremony. The <\/span>Scottish<\/span> used the Old <\/span>Norse<\/span> word for the ceremony, \u201chand-festa,\u201d which translates to \u201c<\/span>to strike a bargain by <\/strong>joining hands<\/strong><\/span><\/a>.\u201d\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n The clear symbolism of this ceremony is the joining of two souls in one union. The <\/span>handfasting cord<\/span> is often saved as a <\/span>keepsake<\/span> after the wedding to symbolize a continued union.<\/span><\/p>\n Ready to start planning your very own <\/span>handfasting ceremony<\/span>? Follow this step-by-step guide to easily incorporate this special tradition into your <\/span>wedding day<\/span>.<\/span><\/p>\n While <\/span>handfasting ceremonies<\/span> are common in the <\/span>marriage ceremony<\/span> on the actual <\/span>wedding day<\/span>, you can also plan one for your<\/span> engagement party<\/strong><\/span><\/a> or when you move in together instead. Sit down together and decide when you want to plan the symbolic act.\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n An officiant oversees the handfasting ceremony. In ancient times, this was typically a priest. Today, you can have your <\/span>wedding officiant<\/span> perform the <\/span>handfasting ritual<\/span>, ask a <\/span>loved one<\/span> or <\/span>family member<\/span> to do the honors, or hire a professional who does these events regularly.<\/span><\/p>\n You\u2019ll need a few items before the <\/span>big day<\/span>. Couples should first decide what type of cord or ribbon they want to use for the <\/span>wedding ritual<\/span>. There are many different options, from silk string to nautical rope, to reflect the personality and interests of the couple. Some people use an article of clothing, like a silk scarf from a grandmother, that has meaning.<\/span><\/p>\n You can also choose a ribbon or cord that matches your wedding theme. For a<\/span>\u00a0rustic wedding<\/a><\/strong>, burlap string or natural vines are a great option. For a<\/span>\u00a0winter wedding<\/strong><\/span><\/a>, a silver ribbon decorated with crystal charms is the perfect addition.<\/span><\/p>\n In ancient times, the cords were braided, so most couples today choose to use three <\/span>handfasting ribbons<\/span> that can be braided over their hands. But it\u2019s your <\/span>big day,<\/span> so if you want something more elaborate or simple`, go with that!\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n Aim to get cords or ribbons that are about 3 feet long so they can be wrapped around your hands a few times. You\u2019ll want added length if you plan on doing elaborate knots like an <\/span>infinity knot<\/span> or <\/span>Celtic knot<\/span>.<\/span><\/p>\n Write a<\/span>\u00a0brief script for your <\/strong>unity ceremony<\/strong><\/span><\/a> to explain the tradition and guide everyone through the process. It doesn\u2019t need to be very long or detailed. Instead, think of it as a quick guide to what you’re doing and what it means.<\/span><\/p>\n Some couples choose to incorporate other rituals as part of the <\/span>handfasting ceremony<\/span>. These may include keeping your hands tied while doing the <\/span>ring exchange<\/span> or reading your <\/span>wedding vows<\/span>.<\/span><\/p>\n While this <\/span>traditional wedding ritual<\/span> is fairly simple, it\u2019s helpful to practice beforehand. That way, you know exactly how you\u2019ll tie the knot on the <\/span>big day<\/span>.\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n Handfasting ceremonies<\/span> themselves are memorable since they give guests a visual depiction of you tying the knot. You can make them extra special by adding personal touches that are significant to you as a couple.<\/span><\/p>\n One idea is to put time and thought into choosing the cords.\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n For example, if you love sailing, you can use nautical rope to tie your hands together \u2014 and make it extra special by using sailing knots.\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n Be creative with the color and pick cords that represent your home countries, birthstones, or wedding colors.<\/span><\/p>\n Or, use an item of clothing that has meaning. A ribbon that your mother used to tie up her hair or a strip of linen from the first place you lived together is the perfect sentimental pick.<\/span><\/p>\n Once you have a cord that fits you as a couple, you can further personalize it. There are no rules! Charms that represent your personality, seashells from your favorite beach, or flowers from your garden can make it more personal.\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n You could also write a copy of your vows directly on a piece of ribbon.<\/span><\/p>\n Consider how you want to tie your hands together. Many couples choose to cross their hands and tie them together that way. Others choose to tie their hands individually using a single ribbon each and then use a third ribbon to tie them together, symbolizing individuality and the resulting union.<\/span><\/p>\n Make the moment unique by getting <\/span>family members<\/span> in on the fun. Add extra cords so <\/span>family members<\/span> like your parents or siblings can participate and tie your hands together. For something more involved, consider giving each person in your wedding party a ribbon to tie your hands with.<\/span><\/p>\n With a <\/span>handfasting ceremony<\/span>, you can symbolize your love and the act of joining together as one. Use these tips to make the ceremony more personal and reference our step-by-step guide to plan the ritual.<\/span><\/p>\n When you\u2019re ready, ask guests to join you on your special day using<\/span> online wedding invitations<\/a><\/strong>. You can reference the <\/span>handfasting ceremony<\/span> so guests know what to expect or just surprise them with the ritual on the <\/span>big day<\/span>. Best of all, each invite is easy to customize so you can match themes, including color palettes, to your <\/span>handfasting ceremony<\/span>.<\/span><\/p>\n
\n<\/p>\nWhat Is a <\/b>Handfasting Ceremony<\/b>?<\/b><\/h2>\n
Significance and <\/b>History of Handfasting Ceremonies<\/b><\/h2>\n
![\"Couple](\"https:\/\/www.greenvelope.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/couple-using-a-rope-to-tie-their-hands-together.jpeg\")
<\/p>\nStep-By-Step Guide to a <\/b>Handfasting Ceremony<\/b><\/h2>\n
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<\/p>\n1. Choose When to Have the Handfasting<\/b><\/h3>\n
2. Find an <\/b>Officiant<\/b><\/h3>\n
3. Gather Supplies<\/b><\/h3>\n
4. Write a <\/b>Ceremony Script<\/b><\/h3>\n
5. Decide if You Want Additional Rituals<\/b><\/h3>\n
6. Practice Before the <\/b>Big Day<\/b><\/h3>\n
Tips for a Memorable <\/b>Handfasting Ceremony<\/b><\/h2>\n
![\"Woman](\"https:\/\/www.greenvelope.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/woman-using-a-ribbon-to-tie-the-couples-hands-together.jpeg\")
<\/p>\nPick a Unique Material<\/b><\/h3>\n
Add Personal Touches to the Cord<\/b><\/h3>\n
Pick a Style of Tying That Reflects You<\/b><\/h3>\n
Add Loved Ones to the Handfasting<\/b><\/h3>\n
Join Together in a Symbolic Union<\/b><\/h2>\n
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