Hi, I am Carrey. I have come to talk to you about Handfasting for the modern bride.
Handfasting is likely unusual word I know, but I will explain. Celtic, Medieval or Renaissance wedding handfasting is a great ritual to add to a traditional wedding ceremony and vows.
Traditionally, it was a simple ceremony with a bride and groom joined right hand to right hand and left hand to left hand and where bound by a ceremonial rope. This is where the expression “tying the knot” comes from.
Pagan in origin, the symbol in most ritual was so expressive that it even found its way in to the liturgy of some factions of Catholicism.
There are many variations on handfasting ceremonies. Some uses simple, silk cord or a family clan totem. One variation is very detailed in determining. Another variation is at the end of the ceremony, the couple holds hands and jump off a branch or broom into their new life together. This signifies a new start or a clean slate as it were.
You can work this ritual into a traditional wedding as long as you have an officiant that is open to performing handfasting or you can have separate officiant to perform just that part of your wedding. It is entirely up to you. Depending on what else you are including in your wedding ceremony, you would want to find a good place to include the handfasting so everything flows smoothly.
I think it is best to either begin with the handfasting or end with it. Any with the handfasting is great especially if you are going to be jumping over the broom or branch together—just keep it mind jumping might be awkward if you have a very long of full dress on.
The lasting you want to do is falling your face at your wedding. Finding someone to perform your wedding that is experience with handfasting rituals is a great help and it is imperative in fact. They can coordinate all aspects of your wedding to flow smoothly.
If you are keen on getting involved in this, the handsfasting ritual can be customized to fit your needs and desires. It is your wedding.
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