What Is a Handfasting Ceremony?
Handfasting is a traditional Celtic wedding ritual in which the couple’s hands are gently tied together with cords or ribbons while they exchange their vows. The ceremony symbolizes two lives being joined as one, which is where the expression “tying the knot” is believed to have originated.
Recently, many modern couples have embraced this beautiful tradition, often choosing colours and materials that reflect their own story.
Three Cords, One Promise
Sometimes, the most meaningful wedding details are the simplest.
Recently, a lovely couple ordered three of our silk braided cords with tassels for their handfasting ceremony.
The groom has Irish heritage, and the bride is Japanese. Rather than purchasing a ready-made handfasting cord, they chose to create something deeply personal.
They selected three colours, each carrying its own meaning:
- ❤️ Red – the bride
- 🖤 Dark Green Navy (Iron Navy) – the groom
- 🤍 White – their union and the life they will build together
Instead of receiving a finished braid, they asked for three separate cords. Before their wedding ceremony, they will braid the cords together themselves, creating a single handfasting cord that symbolizes two lives becoming one.
I thought this was such a beautiful idea.
There is something especially meaningful about weaving the braid with your own hands before exchanging your vows. Every crossing of the cords becomes part of the story you will carry into your marriage.
Although kumihimo has a long history in Japan, it is wonderful to see it become part of a wedding tradition from another culture. Handmade objects have a unique way of connecting people across countries and traditions.
I feel honoured that our silk cords will become part of such a special day.
I wish this wonderful couple a lifetime of happiness.