Ever wondered where the saying "tying the knot" comes from? No, it's not from sailors or knotty-haired pirates, but from an ancient Celtic tradition known as hand fasting. Before there were wedding hashtags and diamond rings, couples in Europe were tying their hands together as a symbol of their union. It’s romantic, symbolic, and yes, it involves an actual knot!

A Leap Through Time: The Roots of Hand Fasting

Hand fasting dates back over 2,000 years and was originally practiced by ancient Celts and Druids as a form of betrothal or wedding ceremony. The ritual involved a couple's hands being bound together with a cord or ribbon, symbolising their commitment and newly intertwined fates. This was not just a quaint practice, but a legally binding gesture that declared, “These two hearts are now one.” How’s that for relationship goals?

From Old to New: Hand Fasting in the Modern Wedding

Flash forward to the present, and hand fasting has made a resounding comeback, especially among couples looking to add a touch of personalisation and historical flair to their nuptials. It’s perfect for those who want to honour their heritage or simply have a unique element in their ceremony. Here’s how it can be done:

Choose Your Ribbon: KS Creative Co offers bespoke, handmade ribbons that can be customised to match your wedding theme or color scheme. Whether you're looking for silk, satin, or something honouring your heritage, they've got you covered. Feeling creative? Try your hand at crafting your own custom ribbon for a truly personal touch
Plan the Ceremony: Typically, hand fasting occurs after the exchange of vows. The celebrant, or someone special to you, drapes the ribbon over your joined hands and ties it while reciting a blessing or words of your choice. It can be as traditional or as quirky as you like—why not have some fun with it?
Keep It Symbolic: Each color used in a hand fasting ribbon holds different meanings. Red for passion, blue for tranquility, green for growth—the list goes on. Choosing colours that represent your relationship can add layers of meaning to your ceremony.
Make It a Group Effort: Why not involve your guests? Have each person hold the ribbon and pass it around before it wraps your hands, infusing it with the love and support of your friends and family. It’s a beautiful way to include everyone in your commitment to each other.

Why It’s More Than Just Knots

Hand fasting is not only a nod to historical traditions but also a deeply personal part of your wedding ceremony. It’s a visual and physical representation of your bond and the life you are embarking on together. Plus, it’s a fantastic photo op—who wouldn’t want a picture of that special moment when the “knot” becomes a beautiful tie that binds?

Remember, whether you’re steeped in the traditions of the past or just looking to add an element of fun and symbolism to your wedding day, hand fasting is a beautiful, resonant choice. Let’s keep making marriage traditions both meaningful!