Handfasting is a popular choice for non-religious ceremonies. The word "handfasting" comes from the ancient Celtic practice of binding couples' hands together with a braided cord or piece of ribbon to represent a year-long "marriage contract" or engagement. The ceremony where handfasting took place dates back to around 7000 BC and is also the origin of the modern phrase 'tying the knot'.

The symbolic idea of handfasting or being bound together with a ribbon or cord can be found in many cultures across the globe. For example, some traditional weddings in the Philippines involve a shawl or veil draped around the couple's shoulders. At the same time, in Mexico, the el Lazo refers to a garland of flowers or beads wrapped around the couple's shoulders or their hands.

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When binding the hands together, you can give a blessing of the hands.,

'These are the hands of your best friend, young and strong and full of love for you,

holding yours on your wedding day, as you promise to love each other today, tomorrow and forever.

These hands will work alongside yours as you build your future together.

These hands will passionately love and cherish you through the years and, with the slightest touch, will comfort you like no other.

These hands will hold you when fear or grief fills your mind.

These hands will countless times wipe the tears from your eyes, tears of sorrow, and tears of joy.

These are the hands that will tenderly hold your children.

These are the hands that will help you to hold your family as one.

These are the hands that will give you strength when you need it.

And lastly, these are the hands that, even when wrinkled and aged, will still be reaching for yours, still giving you the same unspoken tenderness with just a touch.

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