Either Katarianna and Aliandra or Eilidh and Raylin were the first set of fist-sisters. Probably, 2002, but maybe 2003. One, or both, did their ceremonies over IRC. I remember them sharing their stories, but I don't remember the details. Kat and Ali were definitely first-sisters at 2nd Anni TN...
Yes, you are correct, Alyria!
Lyoness and I petitioned for ours, much like you do with bonding, and we had to do it in person/publically if we wanted it recognized. That was back in 2004. There were rogue ceremonies back then because they wanted to do them differently, and in a case or two...