Wedding Ritual: The Infinity Knot ∞

My personal favorite of the plethora of handfasting knot options because, in the end, the couple is responsible for tying their own knot.

They are left with a figure eight or infinity knot.

Also, if you have guests...they won’t expect it and will likely go, “Ooooohhhh!”

I definitely love the onus being on the couple for their binding commitment.

While the meaning of this ritual is implied in the name, scroll down to read my sample script and learn more about the ritual.

As a rock climber, I’m pretty well-versed in figure eights, but I still practice beforehand EVERY. SINGLE. TIME. If you are the couple, ask your officiant what style of handfasting they are planning to do and if there’s an opportunity to practice. If you are the officiant, definitely practice your knot tying with a friend and then run through it with the couple right before the ceremony (if possible).

Supplies: A single cord or multiple cords/ropes/ribbons. In order for the infinity knot to be obvious, it helps if the cord(s) are on the thicker side. The photo below are a mixture of items acquired from Hobby Lobby. If going the DIY route, get at least 4 feet.

Sample Ceremony Script

Today, Calie and Andrew have asked that we honor an ancient Celtic wedding tradition, Handfasting, that has come to be interpreted quite literally, as the symbolic act of “tying the knot.” Back in earlier years, the hands would be bound with whatever was available – vines, colorful cords, or scarves. Today we will use this rope to symbolize the binding of their promises.

Each of these ropes* represent their own individual and separate lives before today. As the ropes become intertwined, the finished knot symbolizes their future, and how their love and marriage will continue to be strong throughout infinity. 

In the joining of hands and the fashion of a knot, so are your lives now bound, one to another. By this cord you are thus bound to your vow. May this knot remain tied for as long as you both shall live.

You may tie the knot.

(*You will need to modify the script depending on how many ropes you use.)

Photography: Sparks in the Forest