7 Reasons to Host a Wedding in Ireland

If you are looking for a destination with beautiful scenery and a longstanding cultural tradition; look no further than Ireland! This beautiful country offers many benefits for couples who choose to host their wedding here. From charming venues to rich cultural experiences, here are seven reasons why you should consider hosting your wedding in Ireland.

Ability to Make the Most of your Budget

One great benefit of hosting a wedding in Ireland is that you can make the most of your budget. The cost of living in Ireland is lower than in many other European countries. This is reflected in the cost of wedding venues, catering, entertainment options, and other services. This means that your money can go a bit further and we can make an even bigger impression with more “wow” moments than you might expect!

Irish Hospitality

Irish people are known for their hospitality and friendliness, especially when it comes to weddings. If you choose to work with an Irish wedding planner and venue, you can count on receiving a level of service that’s exceptional and infused with a personal touch. The friendly and welcoming nature of the Irish people is sure to create an atmosphere that is warm and inviting for your special day, making it a wonderful experience for both you and your guests.

Charming Venues

Ireland is home to an array of charming and unique wedding venues. From historic castles and manor houses to rustic barns and country estates, there is no shortage of options for couples looking for a one-of-a-kind wedding venue. These venues are often set in stunning natural locations, providing an unforgettable and breathtaking backdrop for your special day.

A Countryside Wedding in Ireland

The rolling green hills, rugged coastline, and picturesque villages of the Irish countryside are famous for their natural beauty. By choosing Ireland as your wedding destination, you can take advantage of this stunning landscape to create an unforgettable and romantic atmosphere for your guests. Plus, the countryside offers a variety of outdoor activities to enjoy, from hiking and cycling to fishing and golf, ensuring that everyone can find something to love during their trip.

Best of Ireland over a Wedding Weekend: the Cliffs of Moher

Cultural Experiences for Out-of-Town Guests

From the lively traditional music scene to the rich history and architecture of Dublin, there is something for everyone. Notable destinations to visit include the Giant’s Causeway, a natural wonder made up of hexagonal basalt columns, and the Skellig Islands, a remote and mystical location that is home to ancient monastic settlements and breathtaking coastal views. The Guinness brewery in Dublin is a popular tourist destination where visitors can learn about the history of the famous Irish stout and enjoy a pint in the Gravity Bar with panoramic views of the city. If these suggestions don’t seem to be ideal for your guests, check out this blog post I wrote about How To See the Best of Ireland over a Wedding Weekend.

Unique Cultural and Traditional Customs of Weddings in Ireland

Ireland is known for its rich cultural heritage and unique traditions, many of which can be incorporated into your wedding day. From Celtic knot motifs to Claddagh rings, these elements can add a special touch of Irish culture and heritage to your wedding. These customs and traditions can help make your wedding day truly unique and memorable.

Irish traditional dancers at Gloster House wedding

Ultimate Romantic Getaway and Honeymoon

Hosting your wedding in Ireland can set the stage for the ultimate romantic getaway and honeymoon. With its scenic landscapes, charming villages, and cozy pubs, Ireland is the perfect destination for a romantic honeymoon. From the Cliffs of Moher to the Ring of Kerry, many scenic destinations are perfect for newlyweds.

Deciding to have your wedding in Ireland offers a lot of pros and not many cons, from the ability to make the most of your budget to the warm hospitality of the Irish people. There are so many charming and unique wedding venues and stunning natural landscapes for a great backdrop to breathtaking pictures, Ireland offers everything you need for a memorable and unique wedding day for you and your family. So if you are looking for a one-of-a-kind wedding destination, Ireland has everything you may be looking for and you won’t be disappointed!

Slán go Fóill,

Tara

Photo Credits: Ashford Castle, Cliffs of Moher, Brosnan Photographic, Lisa O’Dwyer Photography

Behind the Doors of a Carton House Wedding

Carton House in Ireland is a stunning venue for a wedding, offering a combination of history, elegance, and natural beauty. Nestled in the rolling countryside of County Kildare, the 18th-century mansion has been carefully restored and renovated to provide the perfect setting for a romantic and unforgettable wedding. I wanted to lift the lid on what you can expect if you are planning a Carton House wedding.

carton house wedding

One of the first things that guests will notice when arriving at Carton House is its incredible history. The estate dates back to the 1730s and has been home to several prominent Irish families over the centuries. The house and grounds have been beautifully preserved, giving the venue a sense of grandeur and elegance that is sure to impress.

Carton House wedding_3

For the ceremony, couples have the option of getting married in the Princess Grace Suite or the Lady Granville Suite, both of which are spectacular locations in which to say your ‘I Do’s’, incorporating understated opulence. Both of these spaces also benefit from a private lounge and deck area with stunning views, perfect to go inside your Carton House wedding album.

Carton House wedding_4

Another option for larger celebrations is the Carton Suite, offering you and your guests a larger space to say your vows surrounded by luxury and even more picturesque views.

Couples can also choose to exchange their vows in one of the many outdoor ceremony locations that can be found throughout the grounds.

After the ceremony, the couple and their guests can enjoy drinks and canapés on the terrace while taking in the stunning views of the gardens. The reception can be held in one of the elegant suites, each with its own unique style and character. The Fitzgerald suites are a perfect spot for an intimate reception and can accommodate up to 100 guests. Whereas the Carton Suite, on the other hand, is a more grandiose option that can seat up to 300 guests.

Carton House wedding_1

Couples and their guests can also take advantage of the many other amenities offered by Carton House, including the spa, the fitness centre, and of course, the golf course. The estate also offers a variety of accommodation options, from luxury suites and tucked-away apartments, making it a perfect spot for a destination wedding in Ireland.

Carton House wedding_2

Carton House Hotel in Ireland is a fantastic venue for a wedding. With its rich history, stunning architecture, and beautiful natural setting, it offers something for everyone. Whether you’re looking for an intimate ceremony or a grand celebration, Carton House has the perfect space to make your wedding day truly unforgettable. Stay tuned for a recent wedding we planned at this picture-perfect property on the blog soon!

Slán go Fóill,

Tara

Images from Carton House

The Little Guide to Lucky Symbols at Irish Weddings

Irish weddings are steeped in tradition and symbolism, with many customs and symbols believed to bring good luck to the couple on their special day. Many of my couples want to incorporate at least a little piece of Irish symbolism into their wedding day, so I thought it would be fun for us to take a look at some of the most popular lucky symbols in Irish weddings and the significance behind them.

The Claddagh Ring

One of the most iconic symbols of an Irish wedding is the Claddagh ring. The Claddagh is a traditional Irish ring that features two hands holding a heart, with a crown on top. The ring symbolizes love, loyalty, and friendship, and is often given as a gift to a loved one as a sign of commitment. In Irish weddings, it is traditional for the bride to wear the Claddagh ring on her right hand with the heart facing inward, symbolizing that her heart is taken.

Irish traditional dancers at Gloster House wedding

The Celtic Knot

Another popular lucky symbol in Irish weddings is the Celtic knot. The Celtic knot is an ancient symbol that represents the eternal nature of love and the never-ending cycle of life. In Irish weddings, the Celtic knot is often incorporated into the wedding bands, as well as in other elements of the wedding such as the invitations, decor, and favors.

The Irish shamrock is also a popular symbol incorporated into Irish weddings. The shamrock is a symbol of good luck and is said to bring the couple prosperity and happiness. I love it when the bride chooses to wear a small piece of shamrock in her hair or on her bouquet, but I have also seen grooms wear them on their lapels as part of a buttonhole.

The Horseshoe

Another one of the symbols of good luck in Irish weddings is the horseshoe. The horseshoe is said to ward off evil and bring good luck to the couple. It is traditional to hang a horseshoe over the couple’s bed or in the doorway of their home to ensure good luck and happiness in their marriage.

The Celtic Cross

The Celtic cross is a popular lucky symbol in Irish weddings that is often seen incorporated into the wedding day decor. The Celtic cross is a symbol of faith and spiritual connection and is often seen on wedding bands, as well as in the wedding ceremony and reception decor.

small low table floral arrangement

The Irish Harp

The Irish harp is another symbol of Ireland that lends itself to a wedding day. The harp is a symbol of Ireland’s rich cultural heritage and is said to bring good luck and prosperity to the couple. 

As you can tell, the lucky symbols at Irish weddings are steeped in tradition and symbolism, with many customs and symbols believed to bring good luck to the couple on their special day. From the Claddagh ring to the horseshoe, the Celtic knot to the Harp, each symbol holds a special meaning and significance in the celebration of love and commitment. Whether you are of Irish descent or simply wish to incorporate some of these special traditions and symbols into your own wedding day, these lucky symbols can add an extra touch of magic and meaning to your special day.

If you want to find out how you can incorporate even more of Ireland into your wedding day, then check out my previous blog post “10 Elegant St. Patrick’s Day ideas”.

Slán go Fóill,

Tara

Images by Brosnan Photographic