A handfasting cord is a symbolic item used in handfasting ceremonies – a popular alternative to traditional wedding ceremonies. The cord is used to symbolize the union of two people who want to declare their love and commitment to each other. During the ceremony, the couple’s hands are tied together with the cord, symbolizing their union and the beginning of their journey as a married couple.
Why Choose a Handfasting Cord?
Couples choose handfasting cords for various reasons; some choose them because they want to celebrate their love and union in a non-traditional way, while others choose them because the cords can be customized to reflect their personalities, preferences, beliefs, or values. Choosing a handfasting cord is a personal decision for the couple, so it’s important to choose a cord that resonates with you both.
How to Choose a Handfasting Cord
When choosing a handfasting cord, there are several things to consider to ensure you choose the perfect cord for your ceremony. Here are some factors you should keep in mind:
Colour
One of the most important factors to consider when choosing a handfasting cord is the colour. The colour(s) of your cord should reflect your personalities, preferences, or the theme of your wedding ceremony. Some couples choose to use one colour that has a special meaning to them, while others use a combination of colours that fit their personalities or the theme of their wedding.
For instance, if you’re someone who loves nature, you may choose a green or earth-toned cord to represent your love for it. Similarly, if you’re a fan of vintage-inspired weddings, you may choose a cream or beige coloured cord to complement the theme of your wedding.
Material
The material of the cord will depend on what you want to symbolize with the cord. Some choose to make the cord out of natural materials like twine or hemp to symbolize their connection with nature, while others use ribbon to represent the colourful and vibrant personalities they have as a couple.
Length
The length of the cord will depend on the couple’s preferences and the size of their hands. Usually, cords are around 3-4 feet long, but some couples prefer shorter cords for a more intimate ceremony.
Knots and Charms
Some couples include knots or charms to their handfasting cords for extra symbolism. Knots may represent the challenges and obstacles married couples might face, while charms can be used as a representation of values you hold dear.
Personalisation
Personalisation of your cord is the perfect way to make your handfasting ceremony unique and special. You can choose to have your names, wedding date, or meaningful quotes embroidered on the cord. There are also talented individuals who can create custom cords through knitting or embroidering whatever symbol of significance that symbolises you as a couple.
Where to Buy Handfasting Cords
Handfasting cords are available from online marketplaces such as Etsy, and there are printed infographics for easy DIY at home too. In addition to online marketplaces, some local new age or spiritual shops might offer handfasting cords or can point you in the right direction as to where you can find them.
Conclusion
Choosing the perfect handfasting cord is not only a symbolic aspect of the ceremony but also a way to make your wedding unique and special. Consider your preferences, tastes, and themes when deciding on the length, colour, and material of your cord. Adding additional charms, knots, and embroidery can also make your handfasting ceremony truly unique and personalised. With so many ways to customise your cord, there’s no reason not to explore what options are best for you as a couple.
FAQ
How long should a handfasting rope be?
Handfasting is an ancient tradition that involves the tying of cords or ribbons around a couple’s joined hands during a wedding ceremony to symbolize their union. One of the most important aspects to consider when planning a handfasting ceremony is the length of the rope or cord being used. A handfasting rope that is too short can be uncomfortable, while one that is too long can look awkward, so it’s important to get the length just right.
Typically, a single handfasting cord should be about one to two metres long, so it can loop around your wrists and hands comfortably. This length ensures that the couple can easily hold hands without the rope feeling too tight or restrictive.
It’s also important to consider the thickness of the cord. A cord that is too thin may break easily, while one that is too thick can be uncomfortable for the couple. A cord with a thickness of around half an inch is typically a good choice, but this can vary based on your personal preference and the size of your hands.
Another important factor to keep in mind is the material of the rope. While traditional materials include ribbons and cords made from natural fibres like cotton or hemp, you may also choose to use a ribbon or cord made from a material that holds special meaning for you and your partner. Just be sure that the material you choose is strong enough to withstand the tension of being pulled tight and that it’s comfortable against your skin.
All in all, there is no fixed length when it comes to handfasting cords, but the general rule of thumb is that the cord should be long enough to loop comfortably around the wrists and hands of both partners. By finding the perfect length and materials for your handfasting cord, you can ensure that this symbolic act is a comfortable and meaningful part of your wedding ceremony.
Do you do handfasting before or after vows?
Handfasting ceremonies are an ancient Celtic tradition that has been gaining popularity in modern times. A handfasting ceremony involves binding the couple’s hands together with a ribbon or cord to symbolize unity and commitment. It’s a beautiful and meaningful way to include a symbolic gesture in your wedding ceremony.
One of the common questions asked about handfasting is whether it should be done before or after the exchange of vows. While there is no hard and fast rule, it’s important to keep in mind that the handfasting is just one element of the ceremony.
The handfasting ceremony can be performed at any time during the ceremony, but it’s usually conducted right before the ring exchange. That way, you’re able to say your vows to each other while bound together and then finish off the ceremony with your rings. This order of events allows the couple to experience the symbolism of the handfasting during their vows, lending even more significance to the exchange of rings.
Additionally, performing the handfasting after the vows might disrupt the flow of the ceremony and make it feel disjointed. Starting the ceremony with the handfasting could work, but it’s important to make sure that the vows don’t feel anticlimactic afterward.
The choice is yours. You can talk to your officiant and work together to determine the best order of events for your wedding ceremony. Keep in mind that the handfasting is meant to be a symbol of unity and commitment, and when it’s performed in conjunction with the exchange of vows and rings, it creates a truly special and memorable ceremony.
Can you do handfasting with one cord?
Handfasting is a popular wedding ceremony that has roots in the ancient Celtic tradition. It involves binding the hands of the couple together with cords or ribbons as a symbol of their commitment to each other. The cords used in the ceremony are traditionally made of natural materials like cotton, wool, or silk.
When it comes to the question of whether you can do handfasting with one cord, the answer is yes. In fact, some couples prefer to use a single cord rather than multiple ones. There are no hard and fast rules when it comes to handfasting, so you are free to choose the type and number of cords you want to use.
If you decide to use one cord, there are a few things to keep in mind. First, choose a cord that is long enough to wrap around both of your hands comfortably. The cord should be made of a durable material that won’t break or fray easily.
Second, you may want to choose a decorative cord that reflects your personalities or the theme of your wedding. Handfasting cords come in many colors and materials, so you can get creative with your choice.
Finally, keep in mind that the cord is just a symbol of your commitment to each other. The most important thing is the intention behind the gesture and the vows you make to each other during the ceremony.
You can definitely do handfasting with one cord if that is what you prefer. The choice of cord is up to you, and it should be something that reflects your personalities and your love for each other.