Handfasting Ceremony Example | The Traditional Scottish Practice of Tying the Knot

Scottish handfasting is a traditional Celtic wedding ritual that originated in Scotland. It is a symbolic way of joining two individuals in marriage or a committed partnership. Handfasting ceremonies have been practiced for centuries and have gained popularity in contemporary weddings, particularly among those who wish to incorporate elements of Scottish or Celtic traditions.
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During a handfasting ceremony, the couple's hands are bound together with a decorative cord or ribbon, symbolizing their union and commitment to one another. The binding of hands is typically done by a designated officiant or a loved one who is chosen to conduct the ceremony.
I've written a detailed blog article about how to have a handfasting ceremony if you want a comprehensive guide:
www.motionart.com.au/handfast...
The term "handfasting" itself refers to the act of tying hands together. The couple's hands are held palm-to-palm, and the cord is wrapped around their wrists, creating a knot that represents their connection. The binding can be done in various ways, such as a simple knot, a figure-eight knot, or a more intricate Celtic knot.
The length of time the couple's hands are bound varies depending on personal preference. In some cases, the binding lasts for the duration of the ceremony, while in others, it may last for a specific period, such as a year and a day. After the binding, the couple may exchange vows or declarations of love and commitment.
Scottish handfasting ceremonies often incorporate other customs and rituals that are meaningful to the couple. This may include reciting traditional Scottish blessings or prayers, incorporating symbolic items like tartan or heather, or performing a ceremonial toast with a quaich, a traditional Scottish drinking vessel.
It's important to note that handfasting can hold different meanings and practices in different cultures and traditions. The Scottish handfasting described here specifically relates to the Scottish Celtic tradition.
Venue: Errol Park in Errol, Perthshire - United Kingdom
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✅ Best Wedding Vow Keepsake Ideas: www.motionart.com.au/best-wed...
✅ The Benefits of Having a Handfasting Ceremony: www.motionart.com.au/handfast...
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[@keigosora7083]

Thank you so much for this! I'm writing a wedding at the moment, and this was so incredibly helpful :D

[@MotionArt_Films]

I'm so glad you enjoyed it and appreciate you letting me know. Good luck with the wedding.

[@MinorMotionPicture]

Ha! I'm writing one as well! A fictional wedding though for a film haha. So doing as much research as I can this is very helpful, thank you.

[@MotionArt_Films]

If you found this video helpful and inspiring please support my channel by hitting the Like button. Feel free to Subscribe if you want to see more videos from the weddings I capture. Share your questions or thoughts in the comments below.

[@blizz2795]

LOVE THIS!

[@mxcleod]

I'd love to know what happens next in the ceremony! Do the chords stay on for the rest of the time? Does the officiant take them off and set them aside?

[@MotionArt_Films]

Christine and Jonny kept the cords on during their vows (which I have uploaded as well) but removed them before they did their ring exchange.

[@rj.b8218]

Doing a paper for class, is normally the related women who tie the knots or can it vary?

[@MotionArt_Films]

From what I've read and seen, you can have anyone participate. Not just relatives. I have a blog article on handfasting if you'd like more info. www.motionart.com.au/handfasting-ceremony/

[@rj.b8218]

@@MotionArt_Films thanks 💯