Handfasting?

We're doing a Hand Blessing... no tying involved. It will be right after the exchange of rings. And we are not doing any unity candle.

J and A, look down at the hands you hold so dear right now. These are the hands of your best friend, young and strong and vibrant with love, that are holding yours on your wedding day, with the promise to love you all the days of your life.

These are the hands that will work alongside yours, as together you build your future, as you laugh and cry, as you share your innermost secrets and dreams.

These are the hands that will work long hours for you and your new family

These are that hands that will passionately love you and cherish you through the years, for a lifetime of happiness.

These are the hands that will countless times wipe the tears from your eyes: tears of sorrow and tears of joy

These are the hands that will hold each child in tender love, soothing them through illness and hurt, supporting and encouraging them along the way, and knowing when it is time to let go

These are the hands that will massage tension from you neck and back in the evenings after you've both had a long hard day.

These are the hands that will hold you tight as you struggle through difficult times

These are the hands that will comfort you when you are sick, or console you when you are grieving.

May they always be held by one another. Give them the strength to hold on during the storms of stress and the dark of disillusionment. Keep them tender and gentle as they nurture each other in their wondrous love.

Help these hands to continue building a relationship rich in caring, and devoted in reaching for your perfection. May J and A see their four hands as healer, protector, shelter and guide.