This allows for the incorporation of elements from a wide variety of traditions and personal symbology. If a handfaster is performing the ritual, they will provide a basic handfasting rite to work with, probably from their own tradition. The couple may also choose to have clergy from their own tradition or community lead the handfasting rite. In this case, legally, the handfastor must be present and witness the ceremony before signing the marriage licence. Handfastings are normally held outdoors, weather permitting.
Some public parks require that a permit be obtained in advance.
This can be checked with your local parks and recreation department. It is also acceptable to have the handfasting indoors, if necessary or preferable. Handfastors can provide the couple with a certificate of handfasting. It should be clearly noted that this certificate is not an official marriage certificate. For legal purposes, a permanent marriage certificate is provided by vital statistics after the handfasting.