FAQs

Question

What is a Handfasting?

Answer

Handfasting is an ancient ritual of love, where two souls are literally tied together with ribbons or cords as they pledge their hearts. It’s a ceremony woven with magic, laughter, and a touch of old-world mischief—half spell, half celebration. Some call it “tying the knot” (and now you’ll know why). Others see it as a weaving of two stories into one tapestry, colored with love, friendship, and mischief—equal measures of reverence and revelry. While we believe we are merely celebrating a connection that has already been made, when you see ribbons wrapping around our clasped hands, know that it is not just ceremony, but a promise carried on whispers of old traditions and bright hopes for what lies ahead, and anchored in the love and wishes of our closest family and friends.

Question

Where will this be held?

Answer

The Commitment Ceremony and Refreshments will be held at the KYOUDOU CENTER just past the Tsuru Island Japanese Garden located at the back of the Main Street Park in Gresham. The address is 219A S Main Ave., Gresham, OR 97030

Question

What do I wear?

Answer

It's indoors in Portland, in the Fall, AND we want you to look good in the pictures! But we also want you to feel at home and to let your true colors shine through. Have a 3-piece suit you never get to wear? Wear it here! You enjoy gender-bending dress up? Go for it, but make it classy. That Celtic themed dress you only wore once this year, here is your chance to show it off before the year ends. Or you can simply wear nice layers over slacks or a skirt. If you must have a dress code -- think Dressy Casual with comfy layers (because it is Autumn in the PNW). But also, you do you, Boo.

Question

Why can't I take photos during the ceremony?

Answer

We wanted to ensure that our loved ones (that's you) could relax and be part of the ceremony, rather than watching it through your phone camera screen. We have hired a professional photographer to document the many special moments for that very reason. After the ceremony, and during the celebration time, please feel free to take as many group pics and group selfies as you want.

Question

What's to eat & drink?

Answer

There will be hot cider, hot chocolate and coffee available throughout the afternoon. Hors D'Oeuvres during the pre-ceremony mingling; Cupcakes and Martinelli's after the ceremony.

Question

Where do we park? Any parking fees?

Answer

Drive to the back of the park, where the Kyoudou Center is. There is parking off to the right. Handicap parking is available. If that is full, there is parking just north of the Tsuru Island Bridge. Parking is free. There are steps on the north side of the building, and an accessible ramp on the south side.

Question

May I bring a guest that is not on the guest list?

Answer

Talk to us first (or text 503-703-4964). As we get closer to the date, we will know how much room we have. **If it is a friend in common that didn't get the Save the Date, we will do our best to ensure they can come. We weren't always sure how to reach people, or thought they might not want to come.

Question

Facility Requirements

Answer

Alcohol is not allowed for this event. Please do not put anything against the mural wall.