Irish Wedding Traditions

Irish wedding customs and traditions are thousands of years old. Irish culture includes an enduring belief in the supernatural and deeply religious spirituality. Today, couples are eager to connect with their heritage and are incorporating Irish customs and traditions in their wedding celebration.

The Republic of Ireland is predominantly Catholic and the wedding ceremony reflects this tradition. English Lavender is often included in an Irish bride’s bouquet, not only for it’s lovely scent but also because it is said to bring luck to the bride. Many Irish brides will carry a lucky horseshoe down the aisle. The horseshoe can be made of any material; though porcelain is the most popular. Tie the horseshoe around your bouquet with a pretty ribbon. After the wedding, the horseshoe is typically hung with the ends pointed up over the newlyweds’ front door for good luck.

The modern honeymoon is thought to have originated from ancient Irish culture. In Ireland, the first lunar month after the wedding is called the "mi na meala," or "month of honey". It is tradition for the Irish family to present the newlyweds with enough honey wine to last through the month of honey. Wine goblets are also given to accompany the wine.

In Ireland, the most popular style of wedding rings is the Claddagh. This ring depicts two hands holding a heart which is topped with a crown. The hands represent friendship, the heart love, and the crown loyalty. This ring has several legends surrounding it dating back to medieval times. One tale behind the Claddagh refers to a man in ancient Galway who was engaged to be married when was taken prisoner by pirates to a far away land. During that time he taught himself the art of jewelry-making. When he finally returned home, he was so happy to find that his wife-to-be had never married that he created the now famous Claddagh wedding band for his wife.

Incorporating beautiful intricate Celtic designs in your wedding is a wonderful way to acknowledge your Irish ancestry. The Celtic love knot is a pattern created by using continuous, unending lines that intertwine. The design represents eternity, unity, and fidelity.

There are several options for wedding bridal dresses. Many Irish brides choose to wear a traditional white wedding gown. There are several designers that specialize in traditional Celtic wedding dresses. Designers can embroider your gown with Irish symbols like the Celtic knot. Handmade Irish lace is gorgeous and can be used on your veil and/or dress. Irish linen handkerchiefs are also a charming way to incorporate Irish culture and work well to dry those happy tears.