stargazer44_99 asked this question on 5/10/2000:

Merry Meet Lady Nimue,

Friends of mine would like to have a handfasting ceremony along with their traditional wedding ceremony. Do you think this should be private (with Witches only) or should they invite non-Witches to view the ceremony. What type of vows should they use...should they make their own, or find a book with something appropriate. since this will be outside, would it be all right if they used candles or would greenery be better..or both? Any input would be greatly appreciated. Blessed Be...Stargazer

LadyNimue1 gave this response on 5/10/2000:

Any wedding, Pagan or Christian, is basically two people standing in front of family and friends and declaring their love for one another. The Handfasting and "Traditional" Wedding can take place simultaniously (my apologies if my spelling suffered). For example you could have representitives from both belief systems present and have them take turns speaking or have a Ceremony written with aspects of both beliefs in mind. Just don't go looking for the "Until Death Do You part" or the "Who gives this woman to this man" (We are not property) or the word "OBEY." Many Handfastings/Weddings omit these phrases and words. As to Vows. A Couple whether they be Homosexual or Hetero-Sexual or even Bi-Sexualmay choose any way to make their Vows. Some place their Left hands on a Sword because in the Ancient Times any Vow (or Oath) worth keeping was sworn on steel (My Husband and I made our vows this way) Some may write their own or may speak them "Off the Cuff" during the ceremony. Many times they are spoken as the rings are placed on the fingers or The Hands are Bound or the Candles Lit (It really depends on the Couple) An Outdoor Wedding. What can be more beautiful? One of the things they may want to make sure of is that there is some barrier between the Candles and the wind (if Candles are being used) or (If like my Husband and I) they are married INSIDE of a Pine Tree and it's Raining. Someone has an Umbrella to place above the Altar (Prop it between the branches)Candles are fine and the Greenery will add a "feel" of nature and (if Pine) fertility. So again it depends on the couples desires. This is the day for the Couple, and everything that can be done to make it a joyous occasion should be done. Hope this helps.

The average rating for this answer is 5.

stargazer44_99 rated this answer a 5.

What a wonderful answer..I'll pass this on and we'll get ready for the big day...Thanks, you've been a real help! BB