What is a handfasting?
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Handfasting Meaning
& Origins
A handfasting ceremony is one of the most recognisable alternative wedding rituals — simple in structure, yet deeply symbolic.
Rooted in ancient traditions, it centres around the binding of hands, representing unity, commitment, and the joining of two lives.
What Is A Handfasting?
At its core, handfasting involves a couple joining hands while ribbons or cords are wrapped around them.
Traditionally, the wrists or forearms are gently bound, creating a physical and symbolic connection.
Each wrap can represent:
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a promise.
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a shared value.
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or an intention for the future.
The act itself becomes a quiet focal point — a moment that draws attention without needing to be elaborate.
Origins
Handfasting is most often linked to ancient Celtic traditions, where it was used as a symbolic act of union.
During the ritual, a couple’s hands would be bound together using cords or ribbons — representing connection, commitment, and the joining of two lives. It’s from this practice that the familiar phrase “tying the knot” is widely believed to originate.
The word itself may also have roots in the Old Norse term handfesta, meaning to strike a bargain or formally agree — reinforcing the idea of a union based on intention and mutual commitment.
Over time, handfasting has evolved beyond its historical origins. Today, it is less about formal or legal meaning, and more about symbolism — offering a moment within a ceremony that feels personal, visual, and deeply meaningful.
While its roots are ancient, its place in modern weddings is flexible — shaped entirely around the couple and the meaning they choose to give it.
Choosing Your Handfasting Cord
The cords or ribbons used in a handfasting ceremony are more than just decorative — each one can carry its own meaning.
Some couples choose a single cord for simplicity, while others include multiple ribbons, each representing a different aspect of their relationship.
Your handfasting cords can be chosen to reflect your own meanings — these are simply a guide. The colours you choose can reflect your intentions, your values, or simply what feels right to you.
Beautiful handfasting cords can be sourced from talented independent makers (see our supplier list) — or, if you’re feeling creative, you might even choose to make your own using online tutorials.
Handfastings At Our Venue
At The Olde England Kiosk, handfasting ceremonies take place within our Tudor-style hall, where exposed wooden beams and large original leaded windows create a space full of character.
For couples planning a handfasting ceremony in Lancashire, having a space that supports flexibility makes all the difference. Without a fixed format, your ceremony can be shaped around what feels meaningful to you — whether that’s something simple and understated, or more symbolic and layered.
We’re always happy to support you in bringing your ceremony together — whether you’re working with a celebrant or planning the details yourselves — so everything feels natural, considered, and completely your own.
Ready To Plan?
If you’re thinking of including a handfasting in your ceremony, we’d love to help you explore how it could come together at Olde England Kiosk.
Whether you already have a clear idea, or are just beginning to consider something a little different, we’re here to support you in creating a ceremony that feels natural, meaningful, and entirely your own.