The handfasting ceremony has its roots in ancient Celtic tradition and dates as far back as 7000 B.C. In ancient Ireland, when two people chose to be married, they were brought together to have a braided cord or ribbon tied around their hands in the presence of a priest. This act merely acknowledged the pair’s engagement, which typically ran the length of a year.

Until 1745, handfasting was a legal act of marriage in England, but today, it is no longer legally binding. Instead, it is a symbolic act that is often the focus of the marriage ceremony and takes place after or while vows are being exchanged.

The cords are wrapped around your joined hands by your celebrant/officiant, then you slip your hands away and use your other hand to tie the knot in such a way that you are left with an infinity knot, as the name suggests. A lovely way to symbolise ever-lasting love between you and your partner.