Handfasting New Age Handfasting Ceremonies The Tradition of handfasting is that the couple were betrothed for one year and a day. At the end of this period, they would decide whether to remain together or part without recrimination. Modern couples usually choose to handfast for life and those who believe in re-incarnation may go further, invoking the Karmic Link to pledge their union for eternity. Couples are free to construct their own ceremony, with or without the help of a celebrant. They may ask a friend or a member of their specific spiritual group to direct the ceremony or simply conduct the ceremony themselves. Example of a Handfasting Ceremony A priestess casts a circle to create a consecrated space. The four quarters: north, south, east and west represent the elements of air, fire, water and earth. An altar is placed at the north on which two candles represent the couple and a larger candle represents their union. Birthstones and other objects representing the four elements are also placed on the altar together with gifts from their family and friends who are not able to attend the ceremony. The guests form a circle within the sacred space and the two candles from the altar are lit and given to the couple who enter the circle and light the larger candle representing their union. The priestess speaks of the couple and the love they share, then calls upon her Goddess to bless the union. Readings and blessings are then heard from the guests. The priestess binds the couples' right hands as a symbol that the couple have come together. Whispered vows are exchanged and the priestess places the rings on their fingers then offers them a chalice of wine before untying their hands, signifying that the couple are now willing to remain together of their own free will. An ivy wreath, symbolising the union is presented to the couple and guests place flowers in a wreath, each flower having a specific meaning for the marriage. Finally the couple pass under a floral archway formed by their guests, who shower them with flower petals and rice. The ceremony ends with the newlyweds jumping over a 'besom' or broomstick.