The Celtic tradition of Handfasting began centuries ago when a couple who wished to live together held hands in front of witnesses and pronounced their intention to be husband and wife and have a family. Today, the ancient tradition of handfasting is enjoying renewed interest.
Today’s handfasting ceremony is a beautiful, symbolic ritual using a braided cord, ribbon, or scarf to tie the wrists of the couple together. Traditionally, the officiant asks a series of questions which the couple answer together. Poetry, song and music are often part of the handfasting ceremony. Words of love and commitment are spoken and the proclamation of marriage is made by the officiant.
Handfasting ceremonies stand on their own as a marriage if a legal officiant signs the marriage license. Today, many couples incorporate the handfasting ritual into their marriage ceremony after the exchange of rings. Rev. Hannah is well versed in the ancient handfasting ceremony, the invocation of the elements, the asking of the traditional questions, the offering of cake and ale and the pronouncement of sacred union.
A beautiful way to add a sense of the sacred to your wedding ceremony is the addition of a wedding altar. The altar can be a table placed near the ceremony site. Items such as statues, the family bible, other sacred books, memorabilia like feathers, sea shells, crystals, photographs and any objects that have meaning to you can be part of your wedding altar.
A sacred altar provides a hallowed space to exchange your weddings vows. The wedding rings can be placed on the altar before the ceremony, the blessing of the rings and the exchange of rings can be performed at the altar. Guests can be invited to bring a small item to place on the altar before the ceremony begins. This wedding altar can be used for the unity candle ceremony, the sand ceremony, or any other unity ritual you would like to incorporate into your wedding.
HeartLight Wedding officiants offer their knowledge and assistance in the creation of a sacred altar for your wedding ceremony.
