Celtic Handfasting -  Meaning, History & How to Include it in your Wedding Ceremony

27/01/2026

By Mairead Vaughan, Celebrant & Solemniser

As an experienced Irish wedding celebrant and solemniser, I regularly include Celtic handfasting in ceremonies across Ireland. 

If you are planning a wedding in Ireland and looking for a meaningful, spiritual, and personal ceremony ritual, Celtic handfasting is a beautiful tradition to consider.

Handfasting is an ancient Irish and Celtic wedding ritual that symbolises love, unity, and lifelong commitment. Today, many modern couples choose to include handfasting in their wedding ceremony as a way of honouring their heritage while creating a deeply emotional moment.

In this guide, I explain what handfasting is, where it comes from, and how you can include it in your wedding ceremony in Ireland.

What Is a Celtic Handfasting Ceremony?

Handfasting is a traditional Celtic ritual where a couple's hands are gently bound together using ribbon, cord, or fabric during their wedding ceremony.

This symbolic act represents:

  • The joining of two lives

  • The binding of promises

  • The creation of a shared future

The phrase "tying the knot" originates from this ancient tradition.

In early Ireland and Scotland, handfasting was sometimes used as a form of engagement or trial marriage. Today, it has evolved into a meaningful ceremony element that celebrates love, trust, and partnership.

The History of Handfasting in Irish Weddings

Handfasting dates back hundreds of years in Celtic culture. Before formal church weddings became widespread, couples often declared their commitment through handfasting in front of family and community.

These early ceremonies focused on:

  • Mutual respect

  • Shared responsibility

  • Community support

  • Spiritual connection

Modern handfasting ceremonies honour this heritage while fitting beautifully into contemporary wedding celebrations.

The Meaning Behind Handfasting

Each part of a handfasting ceremony holds special symbolism:

The Hands

Represent your shared journey and partnership.

The Cord or Ribbon

Symbolises your emotional, spiritual, and practical bond.

The Knot

Represents your promises and intentions.

The Circle Shape

Symbolises eternity, unity, and wholeness.

When your hands are joined, you are physically and energetically connecting — creating a powerful moment of presence and intention.

Choosing Your Handfasting Cord or Ribbon

Many couples enjoy personalising their handfasting ritual through colour and materials.

Common colours and their meanings include:

  • 💚 Green – Growth, harmony, nature

  • 💙 Blue – Loyalty and trust

  • 🤍 White – Truth and clarity

  • ❤️ Red – Passion and strength

  • 💜 Purple – Spiritual connection

Some couples choose:

  • Family heirloom ribbons

  • Fabric from a loved one's clothing

  • Handwoven cords

  • Celtic knot designs

This makes the ritual even more meaningful.

How to Include Handfasting in a Modern Wedding Ceremony

Handfasting works beautifully in many types of ceremonies, including:

  • Spiritual weddings

  • Humanist ceremonies

  • Outdoor weddings

  • Interfaith weddings

  • Celtic-themed ceremonies

  • Destination weddings in Ireland

It can take place:

  • During your vows

  • After your vows

  • As part of a blessing

As your celebrant, I guide you through the ritual so it feels natural, relaxed, and emotionally powerful.

Why Couples Choose Handfasting in Ireland Today

Many couples choose handfasting because it:

  • Feels authentic and personal

  • Honours Irish heritage

  • Creates a memorable moment

  • Involves family and loved ones

  • Adds spiritual meaning

  • Photographs beautifully

It is often one of the most emotional parts of the ceremony.

Making Your Handfasting Ceremony Personal

No two handfasting ceremonies are ever the same.

Together, we can personalise your ceremony with:

  • Your own vows

  • Family involvement

  • Special readings

  • Cultural traditions

  • Spiritual intentions

  • Music or blessings

Your ceremony should reflect your story, values, and relationship.

Why Work with a Professional Celebrant for Your Handfasting Ceremony?

A handfasting ceremony should feel meaningful, flowing, and comfortable.

As an experienced Irish celebrant and solemniser, I work closely with couples to ensure:

  • The wording reflects your beliefs

  • The ritual suits your personalities

  • The timing feels natural

  • Your guests feel included

  • You feel relaxed and confident

My role is to help you create a ceremony that feels truly yours.

Celtic Handfasting with Mairead Vaughan – Celebrant & Solemniser

If you are planning a wedding in Ireland and would love to include Celtic handfasting in your ceremony, I would be delighted to help you.

Together, we can design a ceremony that honours tradition while celebrating your unique love story.

📩 Get in touch today to discuss your wedding ceremony
🌿 Mairead Vaughan – Celebrant & Solemniser
📍 Available nationwide across Ireland

Share