Hand Fasting is an old Pagan custom, dating back to the time of the ancient Celts.

Hand Fasting was originally more like an engagement period, where two people would declare a binding union between themselves for a year and a day. The original handfasting was a trial marriage. It gave the couple the chance to see if they could survive marriage to each other. After a year goes by (a handfasting was once believed to last a year and a day), the couple could either split as if they had never been married or could decide to enter permanently into marriage.

There are many variations of the traditional handfasting.

 After the bride and groom both declare their intent to enter into this union, the hands of the couple are clasped and fastened together with a cord or cords just before, just after, or during their vows are made to one another.

 The wrapping of the cord forms an infinity symbol.

 The handfasting knot that is tied is a symbolic representation of oneness between the couple. In a show of unity, they become bound to each other.

As a Civil Marriage I believe it is my job to give you the ceremony of your dreams that is personal, meaningful and unique to you.

I strive to provide a personal service and treat your ceremony with individual attention to detail and respect for the people involved. Your wedding ceremony is personal to you and I firmly believe it should not be “a one size fits all ” ceremony, which is why I work very closely with my couples to ensure that when your guests walk away from your wedding they will have felt your personality throughout the ceremony.

My couples are a very important part of the planning and I am more than happy to help with writing your vows or words to address your partner.

With an extensive collection of verses and suggestions for different rituals and symbolism you are welcome to browse them and to include them in your ceremony.

I embrace an open attitude to your ideas and cultural values I welcome and encourage you to use them in your ceremony..  Christine Churchill | Ceremonies for Life and Love 

These photos were taken at Glanville Hall, South Australia

with Adelaide Pop Up Weddings.