Handfasting Ceremonies

A handfasting is an ancient Celtic ritual., where  a couple's hands are bound together with cords or ribbons to symbolize their union. 

Full handfasting ceremonies are often undertaken by practising pagans/Wiccans, or those with an interest in our ancient traditions. A handfasting has deep connections to the Earth, nature and the elements. Handfastings are usually conducted outdoors.

A full handfasting ceremony typically takes around 45-60 minutes. The ceremony is split into 4 parts known as quarters, calling on the 4 elements of air, fire, water and earth, and referencing the 4 compass points.

Photo credit: Sonia Oliver

The ceremony space is marked out by a circle. The circle is marked out using natural objects such as stones, logs, shells, foliage, and flowers or petals. These should be seasonal and locally sourced if possible, to reflect the connection to the earth. 

The four points of the compass are marked on the edge of the circle, using the items that will be used for the symbolic actions of each quarter, such as the candle, quaich, and handfasting ribbon. 

 The quarters reference the 4 compass points and the 4 elements.

The order is shown on the table opposite.

The order is as follows. Some traditions start with Air at the North, while others start with Air at the East. 

North - Air - Symbolises new beginnings, communication - symbolic action: smudging/incense

East - Fire - symbolises love and passion - symbolic action: lighting a candle

South- Water - symbolises emotions, depth of love and the flow of life  - symbolic action:   

Vows and ring exchange, quaich/loving cup/water ceremony 

West - Earth - symbolises   and permanence - symbolic action: hand tying/ oathing stone/sand ceremony

Each quarter contains the following:

• Words from the celebrant
• A symbolic action
• Words from the couple
• A reading or piece of music delivered by a guest. These are known as elemental readers.

To close the ceremony, the couple might jump the broom to leave the circle (or they may do this later in the day.) They might also take part in a cake and mead ceremony to greet their guests into the reception.

My fee for a full handfasting ceremony is £900. This includes the services of an assisitant who will help the ceremony flow more smoothly..  It does not include the handfasting ribbon, which I suggest you purchase or make yourself to reflect your own personal tastes. 

If you prefer, we can include a simpler handtying as part of "The Power Of Love" ceremomy package, priced at £750.