A traditional Scottish symbol of unity and commitment
Handfasting is one of Scotland’s oldest wedding traditions. Two ribbons — each representing you as individuals — are placed over your joined arms and tied into a simple knot as you speak your vows or promises. The knot symbolises your lives, fortunes, and futures being bound together.
It’s a beautiful, meaningful moment that works indoors or outdoors, formal or relaxed.
What Handfasting Symbolises
- Unity and partnership
- Two lives joining as one
- Strength, loyalty, and shared purpose
- A connection to Scottish heritage
It’s perfect for couples who want something traditional, symbolic, and visually memorable.
How we do it
- You stand facing each other and gently hold each other’s forearms.
- Two ribbons are placed over your joined arms — one representing each of you.
- You speak your vows or promises.
- Once your vows are spoken, the ribbons are gently tied to form the knot..
The knotted ribbons can be kept as a keepsake if you’ve brought your own ribbons.
Calm, elegant, and works perfectly indoors or outdoors.
What You Need to Provide
If you’d like to keep your ribbons as a keepsake, please bring your own.
Ideal size:
Length: around 1.5 metres
Width: 4–5 cm
Quantity: two ribbons
Tartan, satin, linen, velvet, or hand‑woven ribbons all work beautifully.
What We Provide
If you’re not planning to keep the ribbons, your celebrant will bring a simple set for use on the day.
Where it fits in the Ceremony
Handfasting usually sits during the ceremony, as part of your exchange of vows moment.
Variations You Can Choose From
- Family Ribbons — parents or children place additional ribbons over your arms.
- Tartan Blend — each of your family tartans tied together.
- Colour Symbolism — each ribbon colour representing something meaningful (love, loyalty, strength, joy).
Things to Consider
- Would you like to keep your ribbons afterwards?
- Do you prefer tartan, plain fabric, or something personal?
- Would you like family or children involved?
Reassurance
You don’t need to choose this now — and you don’t need to choose it at all. If Handfasting feels meaningful or connects you to Scotland’s traditions, wonderful. If not, your ceremony will still be every bit as personal and heartfelt.