Handfasting is a Celtic tradition that dates back to 7000 B.C. South Florida has a strong Celtic influence amongst the pagan community and is becoming more mainstream.  This is where we get the term "tying the knot."  

 

 A handfasting ceremony is almost like a "promise to be engaged" declaration.  In Ireland, when two people chose to marry, tradition states that they would be brought together to have a ribbon tied or a braided cord around their hands, crossed, in the presence of a priest. Typically 3 pieces of cord would be used so that the couple could braid them together, symbolizing their lives joining. 

 

You are acknowledging your engagement for the length of a year and a day.  At which, after that term, the couple would reunite with the priest to declare if they still choose to be married, or think that they are not a good match, and best to part ways and be free to find a more suitable lifelong partner. 

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This ceremony is a good way to announce to the world that you are intended to be married and not to be harassed.  Today the tradition can be the main event itself or may be incorporated into the wedding ceremony.  Vows are exchanged along with the binding of hands display.  Handfasting can also be performed during an engagement announcement, when deciding to move in together with your partner, renewing of vows or for an anniversary. 

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Typically the officiate ties the knot, but you can incorporate the mother or father and also extra ribbons or cords so that siblings or extended family may be involved.  You can also decorate the ribbons with charms at the end of the cords or use any sentimental garments. You also have the option of using symbolic colors or themes, and even incorporating a decorative display such as a floral garland. 

 

Handfasting is a great way to get to know if you are compatible with your potential betrothed before you make a lifelong commitment.  In today's world we tend to make hasty choices without getting to really know the person we are with.  This is a great way to get to know somebody beyond the honeymoon phase, sort of a glimpse into the future so that you may decide if you still wish to commit to your beloved, or if maybe it would be best to choose a different reality. 

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