As the New Year approaches, many couples look for unique and luxurious ways to celebrate and welcome a fresh start together. If you’re looking for some ideas to celebrate the New Year in Ireland, let’s get started! With its breathtaking landscapes, charming cities, and rich history, this country offers an array of elegant options. (Are you a New Year baby? Here are some ideas to celebrate your birthday like no other in Ireland!)
A Castle Retreat
What could be more romantic and luxurious than starting the year in a majestic Irish castle? Ireland is home to many castles that have been transformed into luxury hotels. These locations provide the perfect setting for a memorable celebration, combining history, grandeur, and modern comforts. Ashford Castle, for example, offers a spectacular New Year’s Eve package that includes gourmet dining, live entertainment, and a dazzling fireworks display over Lough Corrib. Staying in a castle allows couples to experience Ireland’s rich heritage while being pampered in lavish surroundings.
Private Fireworks and Champagne Toast
For couples seeking exclusivity, renting a private villa or luxury holiday home overlooking the Irish coastline or countryside is the perfect way to celebrate in solitude. Hire a party planner to take care of all the details so you can relax and focus on the upcoming year. Many high-end properties can arrange for private fireworks displays to mark the stroke of midnight. Enjoy a glass of champagne under the stars while fireworks light up the sky and the rugged Irish landscape.
Fine Dining at Michelin-Star Restaurants
Ireland boasts a number of Michelin-starred restaurants that offer exquisite dining experiences, ideal for couples wishing to indulge in the finest cuisine. In Dublin, Chapter One or Liath create culinary masterpieces using locally sourced, seasonal ingredients, providing an unforgettable dining experience. For a countryside escape, The Oak Room at Adare Manor in County Limerick delivers world-class dining in a sumptuous setting. Many of these restaurants offer special New Year’s Eve tasting menus, paired with the finest wines and champagnes, making it a true night to remember.
Scenic Hot Air Balloon Ride
Take your New Year’s celebration to new heights with a scenic hot air balloon ride over Ireland’s picturesque landscapes. Drifting peacefully over the rolling hills, castles, and coastlines of Ireland while watching the sunset on the final day of the year is a romantic and breathtaking experience. Many operators offer private balloon flights, making this an intimate adventure for couples who want to start the year off in a truly unforgettable way.
Luxury Spa Weekend
Relax into the New Year. Stay at one of Ireland’s renowned luxury spa hotels. Properties like The Europe Hotel & Resort in Killarney offer indulgent spa treatments, infinity pools overlooking scenic lakes, and world-class amenities. Couples can spend the last days of the year unwinding with massages and wellness rituals before toasting to the New Year in plush robes, sipping champagne by a roaring fire.
Whether it’s a castle stay, a Michelin-star dining experience, or a serene spa retreat, Ireland offers countless ways for couples to ring in the New Year luxuriously. Ireland always ensures that every New Year’s celebration is as memorable and magical as the last.
A little birdie told me you have a milestone birthday right around the corner! Brilliant! Are you looking for a unique way to celebrate? Ireland, with its breathtaking landscapes, rich cultural heritage, and luxurious accommodations, offers an unparalleled setting for celebrating a milestone birthday. If you’re seeking an extraordinary and unforgettable birthday bash, Ireland provides the perfect blend of opulence and charm. Here’s how to plan an exclusive birthday celebration that will be the talk of your elite circle for years to come!
Selecting the Perfect Venue
As I’ve stated before, Ireland is home to some of the most magnificent castles and estates, ideal for hosting a grand birthday celebration. Here are a few top choices:
Ashford Castle: This 800-year-old castle, nestled on the shores of Lough Corrib, offers a fairytale setting with impeccable service. The castle boasts 83 rooms and suites, a cinema, a billiard room, and a stunning spa. Hosting your birthday here promises you’ll have a regal experience with private dining options, exclusive use of the castle, and a range of bespoke activities. Learn more about Ashford Castle.
Adare Manor: Adare Manor combines historical grandeur with modern luxury and is set in the heart of a picturesque 840-acre estate. This neo-Gothic mansion offers a championship golf course, a world-class spa, and exquisite dining. The manor’s Michelin-starred restaurant, The Oak Room, is perfect for an intimate yet lavish birthday dinner. Learn more about celebrations I’ve planned at Adare Manor. I planned this bash at Adare Manor!
Dromoland Castle: Dromoland Castle is a luxurious retreat with a rich history and beautiful surroundings. Your guests will love the castle’s fine dining, golf course, and falconry experiences. This venue is particularly unique for a milestone birthday bash in Ireland. Learn more about celebrations I’ve planned at Dromoland Castle. This venue is one of Ireland’s most popular event spaces!
Curating a Unique Experience
For a birthday bash that truly stands out, consider incorporating exclusive experiences that highlight the best of Irish culture and natural beauty.
Private Helicopter Tour: Start the celebrations with a private helicopter tour of Ireland’s stunning landscapes. Soar over the Cliffs of Moher, the Ring of Kerry, and the wild Atlantic coastline, offering your guests unparalleled views and a thrilling adventure.
Exclusive Whiskey Tasting: Ireland is renowned for its whiskey, and what better way to celebrate than with a private tasting session at the historic Jameson Distillery or the luxurious Midleton Distillery? Enjoy exclusive access and personalised tours, tasting rare and vintage whiskeys under the guidance of a master distiller.
Private Concert or Ceilidh: Elevate your event with a private concert featuring renowned Irish musicians or a traditional ceilidh dance. Whether you prefer classical music, contemporary artists, or traditional Irish folk, a personalised performance will add a magical touch to your celebration.
Luxury Golfing Experience: For golf enthusiasts, Ireland’s world-class courses provide an unmatched experience. Host a private tournament at Ballybunion, Royal County Down, or Lahinch Golf Club, complete with personalised caddies and bespoke amenities.
Gourmet Delights
No milestone celebration is complete without exquisite cuisine. Ireland’s culinary scene has evolved to offer a diverse range of gourmet experiences, from farm-to-table dining to the most exclusive and luxurious restaurants.
Michelin-Starred Dining: Treat your guests to a lavish meal at one of Ireland’s Michelin-starred restaurants. Chapter One in Dublin, Aniar in Galway, and the aforementioned Oak Room at Adare Manor are just a few options where you can indulge in culinary masterpieces crafted from the finest local ingredients.
Private Chef Experience: For a more personalised dining experience, hire a private chef to create a bespoke menu tailored to your tastes. Enjoy a multi-course dinner in the privacy of your castle or estate, featuring locally sourced delicacies and paired with fine wines and rare whiskeys.
Final Touches
Ensure your milestone birthday bash in Ireland is truly unforgettable with these additional touches:
Luxurious Transportation: From private jets and helicopters to chauffeured vintage cars, ensure every aspect of your journey is as luxurious as the celebration itself.
Personalised Invitations and Gifts: Set the tone with custom-designed invitations and thank-you gifts, such as personalised crystal decanters or bespoke Irish linen.
Professional Event Planning: Deny stress entry to your party! Engage the services of a top-tier event planner specializing in luxury events to handle every detail, ensuring a seamless and stress-free experience. This way you can sit back and enjoy every moment of your milestone birthday bash in Ireland.
A milestone birthday deserves a celebration that is as unique and memorable as the individual it honours and Ireland provides the perfect backdrop for an extraordinary event. Indulge in the ultimate celebration that will leave a lasting impression on you and your distinguished guests.
When Christopher Lawlor and Lucy Corrigan matched on Bumble in 2019, neither one of them had any idea of the epic love story they were beginning, nor the fact that it would end in a brilliant Irish wedding at Adare Manor. With incredibly busy professional lives in New York City (Lucy is a lawyer and Chris is an entrepreneur and co-founder of an AI infrastructure company), it took months before they were able to meet for their first date.
When it finally happened, the two met at a wine bar (Compagnie du Vins Surnaturels) and immediately lost track of time, talking about everything from food to music to family. Their relationship took off and the two began to enjoy dates all over the city (many to see the New York Philharmonic).
Suddenly, the new couple found themselves in a city completely halted by Covid. When remote work became mandatory, Chris and Lucy made the decision to travel to Philadelphia to visit Chris’s parents “for two weeks”, unaware that two weeks would turn into five months! As soon as the restrictions lifted, it was time for Chris to “meet the parents” in Lucy’s hometown of Dublin. When all family and friends were introduced and all approvals were met, Chris took Lucy to Park City, Utah where she was met with the ultimate relationship test: three months of ski season. Lucy passed with flying colors and Chris proposed a year later, on a beach, Lucy’s much preferred location.
When I met with Lucy and Chris, it became clear that it was Lucy’s desire to share the beauty and warmth of her home country with all of their combined loved ones. Lucy said this about choosing Adare Manor: “We chose Adare for two reasons. The first is we genuinely think that it’s one of the best hotels we’ve ever stayed at and the second is… we wanted an Irish village where people could show up and all be in one place, close together.” With guests coming from all over the world, Lucy and Chris said they loved nothing more than the idea of their friends and family bumping into each other on the streets of Adare Village.
In the same spirit, Lucy and Chris wanted to cultivate an environment of reunion and laughter, creating memories their guests would keep for a lifetime. With everyone coming together, friends and family from both sides and from different countries, the couple wanted the atmosphere to be a mix of both formal and casual, to go from black tie to full Philadelphia Eagles attire within 24-hours (a hilarious moment that actually happened). Lucy said: “We could have easily gotten married at City Hall, but the opportunity to have all of the people we love come together in one room was too good to pass up. The vibe across the three days was about providing the space, the time, and the drinks for people to see friends and family they don’t normally get to see.”
Though there were many fashionable moments throughout the three day wedding celebration, when the time came to walk down the aisle, the bride wore an Elie Saab gown (that she fell in love with during a serendipitous try-on at Elizabeth Taylor’s old townhouse off 5th avenue!) and Chris wore a Saman Amel tuxedo with a La Bowtique bowtie.
With the vows completed, the new husband and wife exited the ceremony, walking down the aisle to the iconic soundtrack of Star Wars. The reception was brilliant, with everyone out on the dancefloor, including Lucy’s 91-year-old grandfather! Beautiful speeches were given, wedding crashers were escorted from the party by loyal friends, and a wedding cake made out of wheels of cheese (created by Lucy’s favourite cheesemonger) was enjoyed by all.
As a wedding planner, it is a dream to work with such a fun-loving, adventurous and beautiful couple as Chris and Lucy. It was an absolute pleasure to spend time creating a space where Dublin and Philadelphia could come together in an iconic celebration of Chris, Lucy, friends, family, love and cheese.
Are you considering a destination wedding to Ireland? I am absolutely thrilled that you are here! It is no secret that I believe Ireland is the most beautiful and magical place to say “I Do”. In fact, deciding on a wedding venue can be one of the hardest parts because there are so many gorgeous venues to choose from. Ireland is known for its picturesque landscapes and romantic settings, making it a popular destination for weddings. But there are some that stand out amongst the others. Here are the Top Places to Wed in Ireland in 2024:
Ashford Castle (Cong, County Mayo)
A stunning castle set on the shores of Lough Corrib, Ashford Castle offers a fairytale setting for a wedding. With its gorgeous acres of manicured gardens, lush forests and lively woodland, there is magic floating on the breeze and over the sparking waters of Lough Corrib. Additionally, working with the team of professionals at Ashford Castle is truly a rewarding experience in itself. It is nearly impossible to run out of things to do or options for entertainment. A wedding at Ashford Castle can be customized to fit the personalities of every couple that decides to say their ‘I Do’s’ at this enchanted place.
My other favorite detail? The accommodations at Ashford Castle are beyond compare. Each of the 83 rooms have been lovingly designed and individually restored, whilst taking every effort to incorporate the latest modern luxuries. The unique works of art and antique furniture are carefully and meticulously curated. Every one of the team’s efforts comes to fruition as you and your guests take in the sumptuous fabrics, custom-designed carpets, exquisite toweling, feature lighting and drift off to dreamland on bespoke beds wrapped in Egyptian Cotton bed linens.
A five-star hotel set on a vast estate, Adare Manor is known for its opulent architecture and elegant surroundings. The manicured gardens and the grandeur of the Manor provide a luxurious backdrop for a wedding.
An Adare Manor wedding is always one to be savoured, whether it’s small and intimate or a grand affair. It has a unique ambience, a mix of old-world glamour and modern technology and comfort, suffused with warmth and good old-fashioned Irish hospitality, that makes it one of my personal favourite Irish destination wedding venues. It’s what is known as a Gothic revival calendar house, so named because it has 365 leaded windows, 52 chimneys, seven stone pillars, and four towers, which mark the days, weeks, and seasons of the year. The award-winning hotel also includes a championship golf course (set to host the Ryder Cup in 2027) and a Michelin-starred restaurant. In 2018, it was named Hotel of the Year at the Virtuoso Best of the Best Awards ahead of properties like the famed Grand-Hotel du Cap-Ferrat in France and the Berkeley in London.
But really, what makes Adare so unique is not only the setting, but the people. They have a motto they use, ‘Beyond Everything’, and that is really what they do. They go above and beyond for every single guest and every single wedding. For example, there’s Philip, the wedding butler and one of my favourite people at Adare. He becomes so involved with the wedding couple that when they say goodbye it’s a little like parting from a member of the family. Another example is Mary, part of the Adare Food and Beverage team. She gets to know every member of both families, what they would like to eat and drink, and where they need to be and when. It really is an extraordinary level of service, which reflects my philosophy as a wedding planner. It’s this kind of personal attention that makes guests feel truly pampered and turns an Adare Manor wedding from an event into an experience.
When I speak to couples who imagine their wedding in an an intimate and opulent setting, surrounded by rich history and literary legends, I tell them the Museum of Literature Ireland (also known as the MoLI) is the venue for them. Couples who appreciate this city’s love of literature know that MoLI is the perfect wedding setting. Just traverse through Dublin and you’ll find a myriad of bookshops, historic libraries, literary plaques and statues. Some of the world’s most famous writers called Dublin home.
A relatively new addition to the cultural scene in downtown Dublin, it is a dedicated museum that celebrates the rich literary heritage of Ireland and its literary luminaries. MoLI is a partnership between University College Dublin and the National Library of Ireland. Inside the hidden historic rooms of the MoLI, you will find yourself encompassed by Georgian lavishness and you and your guests will join the ranks of all the fascinating characters that have passed through over the centuries.
Couples who choose the Museum of Literature Ireland have access to the gardens outside, including the beautiful Iveagh Gardens, which were originally owned by the Guinness family. The Iveagh house is located just a few doors down from the MoLI. Intimate weddings at MoLI are a joy to plan. It is stylish and elegant and offers opportunities for celebration both inside and out. I relish creating an atmosphere of exclusivity for you and your cherished friends and family to focus on the moment at hand.
Dromoland Castle (Newmarket-on-Fergus, County Clare)
Another castle setting, Dromoland Castle, offers a historic and romantic atmosphere. The castle is surrounded by lush greenery and a beautiful lake, creating a magical setting for a wedding.
Originally the seat of the descendants of one of the last High Kings of Ireland, Dromoland Castle is now an amazing luxury hotel that has welcomed celebrities and dignitaries from Bono to Nelson Mandela. Magnificent scenery, sumptuous interiors, a championship golf course, and elegant French-inspired fine dining add to the unforgettable experience. The venue is also incredibly versatile, offering a wide range of ceremony and reception spaces of different sizes, from a charming walled garden to the magnificent Brian Boru Hall.
As soon as you step through the elegant Georgian doors of the Merrion Hotel in Dublin, you’re immediately transported into a world of luxury and charm, wrapped in a warm Irish welcome. This place embodies grace, romance, and hospitality – making it an unrivaled destination wedding venue in the heart of Ireland.
The Merrion Hotel takes its distinctive character from 18th-century townhouses, which once belonged to influential Irish figures — boasting 123 guest rooms and 19 suites, a two-star Michelin restaurant, a luxurious spa, and meticulously manicured private gardens. The hotel exemplifies grandeur, splendor, and comfort – everything you might wish for your wedding day.
You cannot go wrong with a Merrion Hotel wedding; it is undoubtedly a testament to Ireland’s rich history, elegantly situated within four meticulously restored Georgian townhouses in Dublin. These 18th-century townhouses, once the homes of notable figures such as Viscount Monck and Garret Wesley, were designed by famed Irish architect Richard Cassels. Over the years, they have witnessed significant events in Irish history, such as the birth of Arthur Wellesley, the future Duke of Wellington. The hotel’s name, ‘Merrion’, comes from the title ‘Viscount Merrion’, granted to Sir Charles Monck in 1760. Today, the hotel blends its historic grandeur with modern luxury, offering a unique retreat that is deeply rooted in the city’s architectural and social history. It serves as a beautiful reminder of Dublin’s Georgian heritage while providing world-class services to its guests.
I’m always delighted when my clients choose Ballyfin Demesne for their destination weddings in Ireland, as it truly is a special place. Built in 1820, the neo-classical Regency mansion (and later, boys’ school) underwent an extensive renovation in the early 2000s, finally reopening as a luxurious five-star country hotel in 2011. Since then, it has received multiple prestigious accolades, including being voted the best hotel in the world by Conde Nast Traveler and receiving the AA’s Hotel of the Year Award in 2018. If you want something very unique and private, then this is the place for you.
What makes Ballyfin wedding venue so special is that visiting it is like walking back in time. Think of it as a Downton Abbey house party of your very own. On arrival, the staff line up to greet you, just as if you were the lords and ladies of the manor returning to your country pile. And that’s just the start of the old-world charm and traditional Irish hospitality you can expect during your stay. The butlers all have a personal connection to the property, so they are part of the family there, and everyone has a story to tell.
Although Ballyfin is described as a country house venue, I think of it more as a little bit of paradise in the middle of Ireland. On a clear night, it’s easy to imagine what the world was like 200 years ago. With very little light pollution, the countryside is so still and serene that it feels like you’re the only people for miles around. And it’s so private that once you enter you really feel like you have arrived home. I’m delighted to have such a strong relationship with the wonderful team there, and to be able to recommend it to my clients knowing that they’ll love it as much as I do.
A country estate with a Georgian mansion, Mount Juliet offers a blend of luxury and natural beauty. The estate includes a golf course, gardens, and a river, providing various picturesque backdrops.
To describe a bit more about why I suggested Mount Juliet, it is nestled within the verdant Irish countryside, it is a breathtaking wedding venue that offers an idyllic setting at a majestic Georgian Manor house, set on a sprawling 500-acre estate. The bride described to me that she had always dreamt of a winter wedding and this venue seamlessly blends historic elegance with modern luxury, providing an enchanting backdrop for the ultimate fairy-tale winter wedding. Surrounded by meticulously landscaped gardens, ancient woodlands, and the tranquil River Nore, Mount Juliet is the epitome of romance and charm.
These are some of my favourites and what I would consider the top places to wed in Ireland in 2024. There are so many, so reach out! We can talk about even more Incredible Wedding Locations in Ireland. Remember to consider the capacity, check reviews and testimonials, and visit the location, if possible. You should always discuss your specific needs with your wedding planner as they should be the expert in whatever venue you choose. Once you’ve decided on a location, you can move on to the next best part: First Steps to Planning a Destination Wedding.
On April 15th, 2023, a fairytale came to life at Adare Manor Hotel in Adare, Co. Limerick, Ireland. Emma and Lane tied the knot amidst the verdant Irish countryside, orchestrating a wedding that was both incredibly personal and uniquely beautiful. Learn more about the day’s charming details, and the heartfelt journey that led Emma and Lane to say, “I do.”
Emma and Lane’s Adare Manor Wedding
Emma and Lane’s story began in Houston, where they were introduced to each other through mutual friends. After a blind date, they quickly found themselves in a long-distance relationship when Emma relocated to Chicago for a fellowship. Their love only grew stronger, and a year and four months after a picturesque Central Park proposal, they celebrated their wedding.
Emma’s wedding ensemble took centre stage with a carefully crafted floral design that adorned her dress, veil, and topper. This recurring motif subtly permeated the entire event, tying everything together in an elegant way. It was imprinted on wedding stationery and even the cake, thereby being an integral part of every aspect of the wedding, from beginning to end.
The couple’s personal touch was particularly evident in the wedding logo, which Emma had designed, inspired by the Rosewood Miramar Hotel’s logo. With a twist of creativity, two intertwined W’s were crafted to look like an old-world regal emblem, sitting atop a Celtic Knot.
Their choice of Adare Manor as the wedding venue was a sentimental tribute to Emma’s Irish grandparents, who had vacationed there several times. As a young girl, Emily’s grandmother often sent her articles about the hotel’s renovation, expressing hope that her granddaughter might consider it for her wedding. And indeed, it came to pass.
Emma’s design flair manifested again in the place cards. Guests found their names written in calligraphy on colourful purple and green envelopes. Inside, a card held a handwritten note from Emily or Lane, expressing their gratitude for the guests’ friendship—a gesture that left many attendees emotional.
The couple, with their eyes on details, did not let any aspect of the wedding preparation go unattended. A humorous incident during the week leading up to the wedding saw Emma suffer from food poisoning. She attended her doctor’s appointment all dolled up, ready to proceed to the welcome party right after!
The couple’s creativity also shone through in their DIY projects. Emma’s mother crafted unique party favours and explained the cultural significance of Ireland’s 99 ice cream through creative notes. She even included euros for everyone to experience this treat, a nod to their Irish roots.
The couple’s outfits were a showcase of sophistication. Emma’s stunning dress, a Carolina Herrera piece, featured a high neck and long sleeves inspired by Grace Kelly, Kate Middleton, and Pippa Middleton. Lane complemented her in a suave groom’s outfit that perfectly matched the elegance of the occasion.
When it came to their theme, Emma wanted to highlight traditional Irish elements. The colours of the Irish countryside, green and purple, were given a modern twist in the wedding’s décor. As for their favourite detail from the day, the couple had a hard time picking just one. From the tactile invitations that replicated Adare Manor’s window patterns to the breathtaking reception design and well-curated music, every aspect was meticulously planned and executed.
Looking back, Emma and Lane cherish their first dance the most. The intimate dance to “Yellow” was a joyous realization of their dream becoming a reality. Emma’s mother’s reaction to the ballroom design was another touching moment, her eyes welling up with tears of joy.
While planning a destination wedding amid a pandemic was a challenging feat, the couple found over-communication was key. By keeping their guests updated with timely emails, travel recommendations, and reminders, Emma and Lane ensured everyone felt comfortable and excited about the celebration.
All in all, Emma and Lane’s wedding was a heartfelt celebration that honoured their Irish heritage and personal love story, made all the more memorable by the majestic backdrop for their wedding. It was a testament to the power of love and the magic that can be woven when personal stories meet exceptional creativity.
Slán go Fóill,
Tara
Event Planner: Tara Fay | Venue: Adare Manor | Photography: Story of Eve | Videography: Dream Catcher | Bridal dress: Carolina Herrera | Bridal shoes: Manolo Blahnik | Groomswear: Custom Mason & Sons | Stationary (Save the Dates, Wedding Invitations, Rehearsal Dinner, Invitations, Place Cards, Menus: Papellerie | Welcome bags, Mass Books, Songbooks, & Itineraries: Judson Design | Linens Wedding Day: Total Event Rental | Band Wedding Day: Sway | Ceremony Music Singer: Carly Coonagh | Ceremony Music Instrumentals, Welcome Party Music: D Strings | DJ All Weekend: Gordon Johnson | Welcome Dinner Drummer: Hit Machine | Hair: David Cashman | Makeup: Michelle Kinsella| Cake: Clare Anne Taylor | Staging and Lighting: Gorilla Design | Sound and AV production: KCLS | Rehearsal Dinner Dress: Custom David Peck | Rehearsal Dinner Suit: Custom Mason & Sons | Flowers: The Garden | Welcome Party Sweater: Lalo, Purchased/Styled at Katia | Welcome Party Skirt: Malene Birger, purchased/styled at Katia | Welcome Party Handbag: Gedebe, purchased/styled at Katia
Wedding bells are ringing and you’re considering a destination wedding over a holiday weekend. The idea seems tempting but carries its unique challenges, especially if your dream destination is none other than the Emerald Isle. But before you dive in headfirst, let’s break down the pros and cons of planning your nuptials over a holiday weekend in this land of mystic beauty.
Pros of a Holiday Destination Weekend in Ireland
Extended Celebrations
Holiday weekends mean extended time off work and transforming your wedding into a mini-vacation for your guests. It’s not just a day, but a complete weekend of joy, celebration, and unforgettable memories.
Travel Ease
With extra days off, your guests have more leeway to manage their travel. They can arrive early or stay late without eating too much into their allotment of vacation days.
If the holiday weekend aligns with an Irish festival, your wedding can incorporate elements of Irish culture, providing your guests with a rich, immersive experience. Whether it’s the lively parade on St. Patrick’s Day or the traditional festivities on Easter Monday, these unique cultural experiences can elevate your wedding to a whole new level of enchantment.
Cons
Availability
Holiday weekends, especially holidays shared between countries like Christmas or St. Patrick’s Day, are peak times for travel. Flights, accommodations, and even your desired venues may be booked months in advance and prices are likely to be higher.
Attendance
Not everyone will be keen on using their holiday for a wedding, as these days are traditionally spent with family or on personal vacations.
Scheduling Conflicts
US and Ireland holidays don’t always coincide. For instance, while both nations enjoy festivities on St. Patrick’s Day, US-specific holidays like Labor Day or Memorial Day won’t be observed in Ireland, and vice versa for Irish holidays like Easter Monday or St. Stephen’s Day.
Before setting the date, research and compare Irish holiday schedules. You might find an overlap that works perfectly, no matter what countries your guests are travelling from.
Navigating the journey of a destination wedding over a holiday weekend can be tricky. Yet, with a dash of planning, a spoonful of understanding, and a pinch of flexibility, you can create an enchanting experience that marries the magic of the holiday and the romance of a wedding in a memorable Irish backdrop. The pros and cons are many, but at the end of the day, the sound of your loved ones’ laughter echoing across the Irish moors and under the holiday fireworks, will make it all worthwhile. If you are interested in reading more about planning a destination wedding in Ireland, check out my Do’s and Don’ts blog here.
