Primitive wind
the rite
Bound by the old ways
Handfasting is the old Celtic ceremony of union — the origin of the phrase "tying the knot." Before church or state, couples stood on the earth, hands clasped, while a cord of braided cloth and botanicals was wrapped around their wrists, binding their intentions for a year and a day, or for as long as love should last.
Anton & Ra del Sol weaves each ceremony by hand — choosing the cord, the plant allies, and the words to match the couple. The rite honours the elements, the ancestors, and the land it is held upon, returning marriage to its roots: a promise made between two people, the green world, and the turning seasons.
the cord
Hand-braided linen, ivy, lavender and rosemary — each plant a vow.
the rite
A circle cast, the elements honoured, the hands bound and unbound.
the time
A year and a day, or a lifetime — the couple chooses the binding.
what the ceremony holds
Four movements of the rite
I
The Conversation
We speak of the two of you — your story, the land you love, the vows you wish to make. The cord and botanicals are chosen from this.
III
The Circle
On the day, a circle is cast on the earth. The elements and ancestors are called. The couple stands within, hands clasped.
II
The Crafting
Anton & Ra del Sol braids the handfasting cord by hand — linen for strength, ivy for fidelity, lavender for devotion, rosemary for remembrance.
IV
The Binding
The cord is wrapped around the joined hands. Vows are spoken. The knot is tied — and, in time, loosed, as the rite completes.
Handfastings may be held as a standalone ceremony, woven into a larger wedding, or renewed year upon year. Each is entirely your own — secular or sacred, simple or adorned, held in forest, on stone, or in your own garden.
BEGIN THE BINDING
Shall we tie the knot ?
Share your story and the land you imagine standing upon. Ra del Sol will answer with the cord, the rite, and the way it can be yours.
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