A Wiccan Wedding is normally referred to as Handfasting. Handfasting is the rite in which the God and Goddess bless the union of two people. It is a sacred marriage between two Pagans. The word gets it origin from the custom of tying the bride and groom’s hands together. In some versions of the tradition, the couple is tied at the wrist for the entire ceremony. Handfasting is the marriage rite that is used by many neo-Pagans and Wiccans who seek to have a marriage ceremony that is not associated with a church, yet is more spiritual than a ceremony conducted by a justice of the peace.

There are many variations on the handfasting ritual. Normally the couple places their right hands together and then their left hands together to form an infinity symbol while a cord is tied around their wrists.

Handfasting can be legal in the Priestess or Priest leading the ceremony obtains legal certification. In most states, this is possible by filing documents to a state level office that prove the Priestess’ or Priests’ religious certification. A couple who wishes to make their handfasting legal needs to follow local guidelines for getting a valid marriage license.

Besides the actual binding of the hands, there are many other traditions associated with Handfasting. Couples jump over a broom together to represent crossing the threshold together into new territory. They may also drink out of the same cup to indicate the joining of their lives and their destinies. Rings can be exchanged, as in traditional wedding ceremonies.

There are a certain times of year that are popular for Handfasting rituals. Beltane (May 1st) is a popular date for the rite, although May has been considered an unlucky month in which to wed. Since May is the month of the God and Goddess? sacred marriage in the wheel of the year, getting married in May is like upstaging the Goddess herself! Samhain (October 31st) is becoming a more popular date for Handfasting. It’s also a good idea to check with an astrologer when picking a date, time and place for a wedding. It’s important to try to get handfasted in a period ruled by one of the fixed signs (Leo, Aquarius, Scorpio or Taurus) to give the marriage stability and longevity.