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.

Is handfasting still legal in Scotland?

Modern day handfasting

In 2004, some handfastings became legally recognised in Scotland in their own right when the Pagan Federation of Scotland gained authorisation from the General Register Office for Scotland for their celebrants to legally perform weddings.

Is handfasting an Irish tradition?

A tradition that dates back more than 2,000 years, the Irish handfasting ceremony is a Celtic ritual that can be easily incorporated into any modern wedding. In ancient times, two people who wanted to be married were brought together.