GCC607 Handfast

Celtic handfasting is an ancient symbolic ritual where a couple's hands are bound together with cords or ribbons to represent their commitment and unity, the couple clasps their hands together—often right hand to right hand to touch pulse points—while a celebrant, family member, or friend wraps ribbons, cords, or tartan cloth around their wrists. Different coloured ribbons or cords are often chosen to represent specific virtues or hopes for the marriage, Red represented passion, strength, and love, green was for growth, health, and prosperity, white:was purity and new beginnings, and blue was for tranquility, loyalty, and patience.It served as a formal betrothal or a public declaration of intent to marry. A common misconception emerged that handfasting was a binding trial marriage lasting a year and a day. Historically, it was simply an engagement ceremony before affordable wedding rings or formal church rites were common.