Pagan Traditions

Question

Why A Pagan Handfasting!

Answer

Both the groom and bride are Pagan. Sharing in their spirituality together is part of what brought them closer and gives them a strong bond with each other. Their beliefs are important to them and they ask for respect of those beliefs on their special day.

Question

Okay? But what is Paganism?

Answer

That is a very good question! Paganism is an umbrella term for many older and earth-based religions! There are many different religions and pathways that fall under paganism. While Lorie and Dru don't have a specific label, they are very eclectic in their beliefs. Nature and the Earth are very important to them both.

Question

Well that isn't so bad! But how does handfasting tie into all this?

Answer

Handfasting is actually referenced in modern wedding lingo all the time and you never even knew it! Ever wondered where the term 'tying the knot' came from? Tying the knot refers to the spiritual binding of the couple's hands together in a cord to create a knot! This is an old Celtic tradition that dates back as early as 7000 B.C. Handfasting is still practiced today by many different people, with many variations! It is especially common amongst pagan couples.

Question

So what should I expect at this Pagan Shindig?

Answer

You might be surprised at how many modern traditions stem from older pagan traditions! Even the veil is rooted in pagan spirituality and its purpose was to protect the bride from negative energies. You might be delighted to realize that this ceremony isn't going to look much different in practice than many other weddings you might have attended! For more information on it, I will be posting a link below that better explains what attending a pagan wedding is like in detail. Otherwise, see more questions for what to expect at this event!

Question

Smoke Cleansing?

Answer

Cleansing herbs may be burned. This is to cleanse and purify. You may see the area of the ceremony being cleansed as well as the bride and groom being cleansed before they enter their commitment. This is extremely important because it keeps out any negative energy and thoughts from both their special day as well as their minds as they take their next steps in life.

Question

Ceremonial Circle?

Answer

This is an outlined circle or semi-circle where the groom and bride will be standing at the altar. It will most likely be spiritually cleansed before the ceremony. Only the couple as well as the officiant will be inside the circle during the ceremony.

Question

Jumping the broom? Hey, I've heard of that!

Answer

This tradition might not sound so foreign to you! After the couple is married, one of the first tasks is to jump the broom! This is a symbolic representation of them overcoming challenges together!

Question

Sacred space and altars?

Answer

It is a possibility that you may witness people praying at an altar or leaving offerings! Please respect these areas! Please do not take anything off of altars as these are not a part of the regular decor. You have no obligation to interact with an altar unless you want to. If you choose to, we ask you please be respectful.

Question

References to Nature and Energy?

Answer

During the ceremony, you might be surprised to find that the officiant will make references to nature and energy. This is normal and nature holds a high place in the religion.

Question

Can I learn more?

Answer

If you want, here is a link to more information about pagan weddings! https://offbeatbride.com/pagan-weddings/

Question

Will there be a goat sacrifice?

Answer

WE ARE KIDDING! We couldn't resist this joke with the stigma that pagans get! However, if you do bring a goat, we will give it head pets, ear scratches, food, and love. But please take your goat back home with you after! We don't need a goat. We don't have the room. We already have a cat! And she is spoiled.