What is it?
Handfasting originated as a type of ceremonial or trial marriage.
Handfasting is now utilized by Wicca and non-Wicca persons.
Handfasting can be an alternative to traditional marriage between any two people, including hetero couples who desire a formalized ceremony but for whatever reason do not wish to be married legally.
During Hand-Fasting the officiant ties one or more colored, decorated or plain and braided cords around the clasped hands of the couple. Often the color(s) and decorations utilized in the cords are of significant meaning to the couple. The ties serve as a lasting momento and reminder of a very special day in a couples life.
Hand-fasting is not just for couples who are having a non-traditional ceremony- many couples like to incorporate hand-fasting into their vow ceremony.
A single-cord handfasting is very easily worked into any ceremony and it adds a delightful and different touch to any ceremony.
Suppliers
I am not affiliated with any of the following- but I think that they are good representations that can be found on the web -- I encourage you to begin with them and search out a special cord source for yourself. I have had brides make their own cords also.
http://gaiashandfasting.com/ Gaias Handfasting---including custom made handfasting cords. Kindra is her name.
http://www.rosehavendesigns.com/handfasting.html Rose Haven Designs
http://www.handfastings.org/ History of and more.
Also check out my LINKS page