Handfasting Beneath the Summer Sun
On what was recorded as the hottest day of the year, under a brilliant Somerset sun, I had the privilege of leading a deeply moving and joy-filled handfasting ceremony for a radiant young couple - one hailing from Yorkshire, the other from Dorset. Their love story, like the land on which we stood, was rooted in ancient connection and timeless spirit.
The ceremony took place in the natural beauty of Lapwing Farm, in a wide, open field beside a shimmering lake. Surrounded by the quiet strength of trees and the whisper of wild grasses, it was as though the land itself was blessing this union.
The presence of the ancestors was palpable; their unseen hands weaving protection and love into every moment.
Over 200 guests gathered, seated on hay bales under the fierce summer heat, while a sacred inner circle of close friends stepped forward to take part in the ceremony itself. Each had a role to play: calling in the elements, the spirits and the directions, reciting poetry, opening and closing the sacred circle with reverence. It was a true community ceremony – heartfelt, inclusive and woven with layers of meaning.
Tears flowed freely – tears of joy, of remembrance, of love. One of the most touching moments was the calling of the beloved, those loved ones who had passed from this world. We all felt their presence so clearly – watching, smiling and standing close, especially in the stillness between words and the hush that followed the vows.
The couple stood together like the Moon and the Sun, shining in their own ways, yet radiant in union – a celestial alignment witnessed by all. As the Druid’s cauldrons blazed, the flames rose high and the Sacred Nine Herbs were cast into the fire, releasing their fragrance to the heavens in offering.
Their vows were deeply sincere, spoken from the soul, met with silence, tears and the warm breeze that carried their words into the land. The handfasting cord, exquisitely crafted by a dear friend, was rich in symbolism, beauty and care, its threads shimmering with intention.
After the couple leapt joyfully over the besom broom, sealing their union with the old magic, something utterly delightful happened - guests flung themselves into the cool, welcoming lake, laughter ringing across the fields as relief from the heat and celebration of the moment took hold.
It was a handfasting that will be remembered by all who were there – a ceremony of fire and water, joy and tears, love and legacy. A true celebration of love rooted in the earth and crowned by the skies.
