If you’re travelling to the stunning Emerald Isle to exchange vows, you might be thinking of incorporating some Irish wedding traditions into the proceedings. Adding local customs adds meaning, charm and a uniquely Irish spirit to your destination wedding.
Photographer: Studio Lordan
1. The Claddagh Ring
The Claddagh ring is an iconic Irish symbol featuring two hands holding a heart topped with a crown. Traditionally, it represents love, loyalty, and friendship, the perfect values to celebrate on your wedding day.
You could consider incorporating Claddagh rings as wedding bands or gifts for your bridal party to signify the love felt during your wedding celebrations.
Photographer: Studio Lordan
2. The Handfasting Ceremony
Handfasting is an ancient Celtic ritual where the couple’s hands are tied together with cords or ribbons, symbolising their commitment to each other. It’s where the phrase “tying the knot” originates is a beautiful way to add symbolic meaning to a modern wedding.
Most couples will use materials that hold meaning for them or ask a family member to create a piece especially for this moment. When the time comes in the ceremony, you can tie the knot around your own hands or have members of your bridal party each take a turn wrapping your hands.
Photographer: Ivana Patarcic
3. The Irish Wedding Toast
Irish weddings wouldn’t be complete without heartfelt toasts. The word “Sláinte” (pronounced “slawn-cha”) means “health” and is the traditional Irish toast, raising a glass to the couple’s happiness and wellbeing. Whether toasting with a signature cocktail or a monogrammed pint of Guiness, making a toast creates a joyful moment for guests to connect.
Photographer: Peter Carvill
4. Warming of the Rings
The warming of the rings is one of the most heartfelt Irish wedding traditions. Wedding bands are passed among your guests before you exchange vows. Each person holds the rings briefly, sending silent blessings and good wishes into them. Especially poignant at an intimate wedding, the act symbolises the collective support and love of your friends and family as you embark on your married life together.
Photographer: Elaine Barker
5. Incorporate Irish Greenery & Florals
Ireland’s natural beauty offers endless inspiration for your wedding décor. Embrace the lushness of the landscape by incorporating natural greenery such as ivy, moss and fern for a look that’s both romantic and timeless.
Delicate hydrangeas, classic roses, and Bells of Ireland add soft texture and beautiful colour to perfectly complement any setting and style. For a subtle nod to tradition, consider including shamrock in your bouquet, favours or table settings.
Photographer: Claire Studio Brown
Weaving Tradition with Your Story
While these Irish customs are timeless, there are so many ways you can personalise them and add your own unique taste. Your celebration becomes a reflection of your love with a nod to the rich culture and history that surrounds it.
