A Handfasting is a traditional Pagan wedding ceremony.

Handfasting ceremonies differ from couple to couple but some of the basic elements normally included are: calling on the four elements of Pagan belief – Earth, Air, Fire and Water, to bestow the blessings and qualities of each element to the couple. The the bride and groom will have their hands tied together by the Priest for a short while to symbolise the bonds of commitment they are making to each other. A handfasting certificate is often signed with witnesses as it is in a Christian ceremony. Vows of love and commitment are exchanged and the familiar wedding rings are also given. Another element of ritual some Pagans follow is jumping over a broomstick or a small fire to symbolise they are leaving their old lives and starting a new one together – we have decided not to include the broom jump in our handfasting though.

Handfastings were traditionally binding either for ever or for only a year and a day (at which point the couple could either renew their vows or go their separate ways). Pagans now see the handfasting as permanent and it should be in every way as binding and serious as a regular wedding. This is certainly what we are doing – our handfasting is our wedding ceremony and we will be legally joined together as husband and wife.

Our handfasting ceremony will include some modern elements too – bridesmaids and a best man and the brides entrance to the circle for example, and signing the certificate with witnesses. We have chosen a song to mark the beginning and end of the ceremony and when it’s all done, you will be encouraged to give us a big cheer so please join in and make some noise and come and give  us your congratulations. We may walk round the circle to see everyone or invite you to the altar to see us as photographs are taken.

Immediately after the ceremony we will have photographs in the woods and ceremony circle.

Hopefully this will give you an idea of what to expect, please see updates and other pages here to find out what else is going on, thank you for reading, keep looking back for more updates soon.