AN EARTH-CENTRED HANDFASTING

Handfasting Ceremonies in UK Stone Circles and worldwide with David William Parry for authentic Celtic, Norse or indigenous European handfastings at Stonehenge, Glastonbury, Avebury, Orkney, Callanish, King Arthur’s Cave, much of Dartmoor etc.

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In some ways, a handfasting is a magical alternative to a mainstream wedding ceremony.
Handfasting, following the Celtic or Norse tradition, is a betrothal or even a wedding ritual, whereby promises of loyalty and fidelity are exchanged by the couple in front of friends and family.

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The couple's clasped hands are draped with astrologically aligned cordage.

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The couple, with the Celebrant, gather with friends and family.
They exchange personal and heartfelt vows unique to them and the gods, while an oath ring or more commonly nowadays individual rings are used as a sign that a permanent oath has been agreed.

Often there will be bridesmaids and friends assisting in the ceremony.

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A unique ritual will be written, which reflects your desires and aspirations.

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The ceremony will be conducted by David  ...
You will be provided with a ceremony that this most romantic of all people's dreams are made of. David will be delighted to discuss your personal union before the Cosmos, Wood and Stone - he will write a bespoke ceremony reflecting your belief system, your personalities and your character.

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Usually a Handfasting will be held in as natural a setting as possible - amongst the glories of nature and the vibrancy of Earth, Air, Fire and Water. The space may be decorated with flowers and foliage of the season and lit with candles in lanterns. The smell of sage and frankincense fill the air. It is a space that is honoured and made sacred to the Elements of nature. 

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The ceremony is presided over by David who adheres to the most ancient of traditions, believing in the forces of Nature and the Universe. The couple are invited into the sacred space and the ceremony is conducted.

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David will provide a beautiful and memorable Handfasting ceremony.
It will be something you, your friends and your family will talk about for months.

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Assistance of a Priestess and/or Quarters at cardinal directions can easily be arranged. David has deacons that, if required, are available to assist him at ceremonies.

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The ceremony is romantic, spiritual and blessed by entwining love, celebrating the love between two people and preparing them for their future together. But the day is also a celebration of family and friends coming together to wish a couple well. Flowers, music & food - fun for all!

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With this in mind we offer three choices of Handfasting.

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ONE YEAR and ONE DAY Handfasting
A betrothal of a year and a day. The cords may be loosely tied symbolising that the handfasting is a commitment, but one that is not heavy or unending.

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FULL Celtic Handfasting
This is a beautiful 'earth-centred' ceremony clearly focused on nature. Usually one year and a day after being handfasted, the couple may return to the celebrant and repeat their vows with the cords or ribbons tightly knotted to make the commitment binding. This symbolises the intent to have a permanent relationship. This ritual is the source of the expression 'to tie the knot'.

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The 'Knot' Ceremony - a Partial Handfasting
Sometimes a couple prefer a Traditional Wedding Ceremony and include a handfasting as part of their ceremony - immediately after saying their vows. This is becoming increasingly popular in traditional wedding celebration ceremonies.

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CALLING ON THE ELEMENTS:
According to Celtic Spirituality, Spirit is found in all things, not only the human heart, but also in everything else created. The elements of Earth, Fire, Air and Water are called upon to cast blessings upon the couple. The ritual is designed to enable us to get in touch with the life force within ourselves, to sense an interconnectedness with all life, and to access the energies of the living earth.

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THE CEREMONIAL CIRCLE
Handfastings are conducted in a circle, which is a symbol of eternity - a sign that life, love and happiness have no beginning and no end. All who enter the circle must do so in perfect love and keep sacred the ceremonial space.

The most beautiful and memorable Handfasting and Marriage Ceremony is assured.

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CEREMONIES at STONEHENGE 2020/2021

(selecting the above link - opens the Stonehenge page)

Handfastings & Vow Renewals - Any Time of the Day

BOOKINGS NOW OPEN FOR 2020/2021 

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My fee includes:

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• Excellent communication with every couple.

• A superb personalised Ceremony, including a traditional Celtic or Norse Handfasting.

• Setting up the sacred Space in advance of the ceremony

• Handfasting Incense (Frankincense)

• Handfasting Cord (in your choice of colours) yours to keep

• A Loving Cup for the toast following your vows

• Decorated Besom (broomstick) - for 'jumping the broom'

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I look forward to helping you explore more about whether this is the right celebration of your love and union. Please feel free to contact me.