The Ultimate Guide to Handfasting Cords
Meaning, Colours & How to Choose Yours
Handfasting is one of the fastest-growing wedding trends worldwide, and thousands of couples now search for the perfect handfasting cord every single month. Whether you’re planning a Celtic-inspired ceremony, an outdoor wedding, or simply want to add a symbolic moment to your vows, this guide covers everything you need to know — quickly and clearly.
What Is a Handfasting Cord?
A handfasting cord is a braided or woven cord used during a wedding ceremony to symbolise unity, commitment, and the binding of two lives. This tradition dates back to ancient Celtic culture and has become incredibly popular in modern weddings, elopements, spiritual ceremonies, and personalised vow exchanges.
Today, couples choose handfasting because it adds a meaningful, visual, and memorable moment to their ceremony.
What Do Handfasting Cord Colours Mean?
Colour meanings are one of the most searched-for topics online. Here’s a simple breakdown:
White/Ivory – purity, fresh starts, truth
Red – passion, love, courage, energy
Blue – loyalty, honesty, calm, trust
Purple – spirituality, wisdom, creativity
Green – growth, luck, nature, harmony
Gold – prosperity, abundance, success
Black – protection, grounding, strength
Pink – affection, romance, friendship
Most couples choose 2–3 colours to blend personal values, personalities, or family heritage.
How to Choose the Right Handfasting Cord
When selecting your cord, think about:
Length & thickness: Longer cords allow for more meaningful knots and easier wrapping.
Materials: Many couples now search for sustainable, natural, or Irish-made cords.
Style: Braided, woven, velvet-wrapped, ribbon-based, or cords with decorative details.
Personalisation: Heirloom fabrics, initials, charms, or wedding colours make it truly unique.
A good handfasting cord should match your ceremony style and feel like it represents your story as a couple.
Why Choose Anamchara Cords
Anamchara Cords offers handmade, Irish-made, sustainable handfasting cords crafted with care, symbolism, and attention to detail. Every cord is made to order, designed to reflect your colours, your values, and your style. They’re created to be a beautiful keepsake — something you can display, cherish, and pass down long after the ceremony is over.
If you want a truly meaningful and personalised addition to your wedding, a bespoke Anamchara handfasting cord is a perfect choice.
