Hosting a destination wedding in Ireland is like having a fairytale wedding set against the backdrop of rolling green hills, ancient castles, and breathtaking coastlines. But it requires careful planning to ensure everything goes smoothly! Here are five essential tips for hosting your destination wedding in Ireland:
Choose the Perfect Venue
The key to a successful destination wedding in Ireland is selecting the perfect venue that reflects your style and vision. Whether you envision exchanging vows in a majestic castle, a quaint countryside manor, or overlooking the rugged cliffs of the Wild Atlantic Way, Ireland offers a diverse range of stunning locations to suit every taste. When you do your research, be sure to consider your guest list, accessibility, and (if possible) schedule site visits to get a firsthand feel of each location’s ambiance.
Consider the Weather
Ireland’s weather is notoriously unpredictable. Even in the summer, it’s crucial to consider the weather and have contingency plans in place. Make sure you tour venues that offer indoor and outdoor spaces, or consider renting marquees or tents for outdoor ceremonies and receptions. Additionally, provide your guests with practical advice on dressing in layers and bringing umbrellas, ensuring everyone stays comfortable regardless of the weather.
Navigate Legal Requirements
One of my top tips for hosting your destination wedding in Ireland is hiring a local wedding planner who can guide you through navigating legal requirements. Non-residents must give at least three months’ notice to the Registrar’s Office, providing documentation such as passports, birth certificates, and a declaration of marital status. Additionally, you may need to fulfil other legal obligations, such as obtaining a marriage visa or completing pre-marriage courses.
Embrace Irish Traditions
Immerse yourself in the rich culture and traditions of Ireland by incorporating elements of Irish heritage into your wedding celebration. From Celtic handfasting ceremonies to the warming of the ring ceremony to traditional Irish music and dance performances, there are countless ways to infuse your wedding with authentic Irish charm. Consider serving traditional dishes like colcannon or soda bread, or offer guests a taste of Ireland with a whisky or Guinness tasting station.
Plan for Transportation and Accommodation
Ensure a seamless experience for you and your guests by arranging transportation and accommodation well in advance. Consider hiring shuttles or buses to transport guests between the ceremony and reception venues, especially if they are located in different locations. Provide guests with a list of recommended accommodations and consider negotiating group rates for added convenience. By taking care of transportation and accommodation logistics, you’ll ensure that your guests can focus on enjoying the celebration without any worries.
Hosting a destination wedding in Ireland is a magical experience that requires careful planning and attention to detail. By choosing the perfect venue, considering the weather, navigating legal requirements, embracing Irish traditions, and planning for transportation and accommodation, you can ensure your dream wedding will be a brilliant affair celebration of love.
Planning a wedding in a foreign country can be daunting. Enter: the destination wedding planner, your key to turning your Irish wedding dreams into reality. Let’s explore the role of a destination wedding planner and why hiring one for your wedding in Ireland is a wise decision.
What is a Destination Wedding Planner?
A destination wedding planner is a seasoned professional who specializes in organizing weddings held in locations away from the couple’s hometown or country. They possess the expertise, connections, and local knowledge necessary to plan and execute a flawless celebration in a destination of your choice. (While we’re at it, let’s also talk about the difference between a wedding planner and a venue manager – and why you need both!)
What Do They Do?
Destination wedding planners wear many hats to ensure that your wedding day unfolds seamlessly. Here’s a glimpse into their role.
Venue Selection: Ireland offers an array of stunning venues for your wedding. A destination wedding planner will help you navigate these options, considering factors such as capacity, ambiance, and accessibility.
Logistics Coordination: Coordinating travel, accommodations, transportation, and timelines can be overwhelming when planning a wedding from afar. Your destination wedding planner will handle all the logistical details, leaving you free to focus on the excitement of your upcoming nuptials.
Vendor Management: From florists and photographers to caterers and musicians, your planner will recommend trusted vendors who can bring your vision to life. They’ll negotiate contracts, schedule appointments, and oversee the execution of services, ensuring that every aspect of your wedding reflects your style and preferences.
Cultural Insight: Navigating local customs, traditions, and regulations is essential when planning a wedding in a foreign country. Your destination wedding planner will provide invaluable insight into Irish culture, etiquette, and legal requirements, ensuring that your celebration is respectful and compliant with local practices.
Budget Management: With their expertise in budgeting and cost estimation, destination wedding planners can help you allocate funds effectively, maximizing value without sacrificing quality. They’ll provide transparent pricing estimates and offer guidance on where to invest your resources for the greatest impact.
Why Hire a Destination Wedding Planner for Your Irish Wedding?
Choosing to enlist the services of a destination wedding planner for your Irish wedding offers numerous benefits.
Local Expertise: With their extensive knowledge of Ireland’s wedding industry and network of local vendors, planners can help you discover hidden gems and create a truly authentic Irish experience for you and your guests.
Stress Reduction: Planning a wedding from a distance can be overwhelming, but with a destination wedding planner at your side, you can enjoy a stress-free planning process. They’ll troubleshoot any issues and ensure that everything runs smoothly on your big day.
Personalised Service: Destination wedding planners offer personalised attention and tailored solutions to meet your unique needs and preferences. Whether you envision an intimate elopement or a grand celebration, they’ll work closely with you to bring your vision to life.
Peace of Mind: By entrusting the planning and coordination of your wedding to a professional, you can relax and savor every moment of this special time in your life. Your planner will be there to support you every step of the way, from the initial consultation to the final farewell.
A destination wedding planner is your trusted ally in creating the destination wedding of your dreams. With their expertise, resources, and dedication to excellence, they’ll ensure that your wedding day is nothing short of magical.
In my opinion, nothing exudes romance and sophistication quite like a garden wedding. In 2024, the Met Gala has set an inspiring precedent for lavish, nature-inspired events, making it the perfect muse for couples seeking an extravagant garden wedding. This year’s Met Gala was a feast for the senses, blending opulence with the organic beauty of nature. Ultimately, it created a vision that seamlessly translates into the ultimate dream wedding.
The Allure of Nature Meets High Fashion
The 2024 Met Gala, themed “Sleeping Beauties: Reawakening Fashion” and with a dress code of “The Garden of Time,” showcased the most glamorous interpretations of the natural world. Celebrities graced the red carpet adorned in couture gowns reminiscent of blooming gardens, cascading waterfalls, and lush bouquets. This celebration of nature’s splendor provides the perfect blueprint for a grand garden wedding.
Setting the Scene: A Verdant Venue
Choosing the right venue is paramount to capturing the essence of a Met Gala-inspired garden wedding. Opt for a botanical garden, an estate with sprawling lawns, or a historic mansion surrounded by lush greenery. A great example of this theme is found in the above image of Ryan and Emily’s Fairytale Wedding at Adare Manor. These venues offer a natural backdrop that can be enhanced with luxurious floral arrangements and elaborate landscaping. Picture a ceremony beneath a canopy of wisteria, with petals scattered along the aisle, or a reception under the stars with twinkling fairy lights woven through ancient trees.
If we are taking inspiration from the Met Gala, where florals were not just accents but central to the overall aesthetic, your wedding should feature abundant, artfully arranged flowers. Think oversized floral installations, such as arches dripping with orchids and roses, tablescapes overflowing with peonies and hydrangeas, and even floral chandeliers. Each arrangement should display the wild beauty of nature, but with a touch of curated elegance to make it feel like an enchanted forest.
Sumptuous Dining in Nature’s Lap
Continuing the theme, a garden wedding inspired by the Met Gala should offer a dining experience that is as visually stunning as it is delicious. I imagine this as long banquet tables adorned with cascading floral centerpieces, gilded tableware, and crystal glassware. Menus can draw on fresh, seasonal ingredients, reflecting the bounty of the garden. I love the idea of serving dishes that incorporate edible flowers and herbs, along with signature cocktails infused with botanical flavours.
Fashion Forward Bridal and Guest Attire
The Met Gala is ultimately a fashion show, so it’s imperative to channel the high-fashion sensibility of the Met Gala into your wedding attire. For the bride, consider a gown that combines traditional elements with avant-garde details—perhaps a dress with intricate floral appliqués, a dramatic train that mimics cascading vines, or a delicate lace bodice reminiscent of spider silk. Bridesmaids can wear gowns in varying shades of green, pink, or even metallic hues that imitate the organic colours of the garden.
To take it one step further, guests should be encouraged to dress in their finest garden-inspired attire. With this motivation, your wedding will be sure to create a scene straight out of a fashion editorial. You can aid your attendees in choosing the right attire by offering the image of a natural theme with botanical prints, soft pastels, and elegant fabrics.
Entertainment to Enchant
In true Met Gala fashion, entertainment should be an unforgettable spectacle. Live music can create a magical atmosphere. For a touch of whimsy, consider adding performances by acrobats or dancers dressed as woodland creatures, bringing a fantastical element to the evening. When you give your entertainers a enchanted place to perform, they will seamlessly blend in to the celebration and likely be inspired by such a creative and marvellous atmosphere.
When you have gone to such great lengths to create an extravagant garden wedding, it’s important to ensure that every moment is captured with the same meticulous detail that characterizes the Met Gala. Hiring a skilled photographer and videographer who can capture the interplay of light and nature, the intricate details of the décor, and the joyous moments shared with loved ones will allow you to relive the magic for years to come.
Inspired by the grandeur and natural beauty celebrated at the 2024 Met Gala, an extravagant garden wedding can be a breathtaking blend of opulence and organic charm. With an event planner that prioritizes thoughtful organisation and attention to detail, your special day can become a timeless celebration that mirrors the elegance of the Met Gala and the timeless beauty of nature.
Are you planning your dream wedding and envision exchanging vows against a backdrop of stunning landscapes or historic charm? Summer is the perfect season for destination weddings, offering ideal weather and a plethora of picturesque locations to choose from. From breathtaking beaches to romantic castles, let’s discuss some dreamy summer wedding destinations, including the enchanting emerald isle of Ireland.
Bali, Indonesia
Known as the “Island of the Gods,” Bali offers exotic beauty and cultural richness for couples seeking a unique wedding experience. Recite your vows at pristine beaches or lush rice terraces or majestic waterfalls. Bali’s natural landscapes provide an idyllic backdrop for all celebrations. Bali offers vibrant culture, luxurious resorts, and warm hospitality.
Amalfi Coast, Italy
For couples seeking old-world charm, the Amalfi Coast is a quintessential destination. Picture colourful cliffside villages, panoramic views, and lush lemon groves. The Amalfi coast is a UNESCO World Heritage site and provides many romantic settings for exchanging vows. Whether you choose a seaside ceremony or a historic villa, the Amalfi Coast exudes romance at every turn.
Santorini, Greece
So many couples are travelling to Santorini for the mesmerizing sunsets and iconic white-washed buildings overlooking the Aegean Sea. I’d say Santorini tops the list of dream wedding destinations. Imagine saying “I do” with the backdrop of azure waters and volcanic cliffs, followed by a romantic reception under the stars. The magical ambiance of Santori cannot be topped. Plus, there are many luxurious resorts that make Santorini a truly unforgettable wedding experience.
Tuscany, Italy
You don’t have to be a foodie to love Italy, but it helps. There is something magical about exchanging vows amidst olive groves and cypress trees, followed by a feast of Tuscan cuisine and fine wine. No guest could ever complain when surrounded by rolling hills, vineyards, and historic villas. Tuscany epitomizes rustic elegance and timeless romance. Whether you choose a vineyard estate or a Renaissance villa, Tuscany offers an unforgettable setting for a destination wedding immersed in Italian charm.
Dublin, Ireland
I might be biased, but Ireland is my first pick for a dreamy summer wedding destination. With its verdant landscapes, ancient castles, and rugged coastlines, it’s no wonder Ireland is a sought-after destination for romantic weddings. From the majestic cliffs of Moher to the fairytale-like castles of Ashford and Dromoland, this beautiful isle offers a myriad of enchanting venues for couples seeking a magical setting. In the summer (and beyond), Ireland’s natural beauty and rich heritage provide an ideal backdrop for a destination wedding that is both timeless and unforgettable.
Summer destination weddings offer couples the opportunity to celebrate their love amidst some of the world’s most breathtaking landscapes and iconic landmarks. Whether you’re drawn to the sun-kissed shores of Santorini, the historic charm of Tuscany, or the mystical allure of Ireland, there’s a perfect destination waiting to fulfil your wedding dreams. So, pack your bags and say “I do” in style. Because love knows no bounds, embark on the journey of a lifetime with your beloved.
Long before Aimee and Adam shared their first dance as husband and wife during their enchanting Ashford Castle wedding, they were teenagers meeting for the first time at Theatre Club in Dublin. The two playfully competed over who was more flexible (Aimee won) and an instant friendship blossomed, followed by romance, when the two began dating a couple years later. From there, Aimee and Adam navigated life: college, new jobs, new friends, their “dog child”, and travelling the world. They grew up together; it only made sense to grow old together, too.
So, at a view point between Adam’s family cabin and Ashford Castle in County Mayo, overlooking Lough Na Fooey, Adam caught Aimee off guard when he asked a very important question. After 11 years together, Adam and Aimee were finally engaged and they knew exactly where they wanted to host their big day.
In the 1960’s, Adam’s grandfather bought a cottage in Joyce Country for his family to spend some time away from the city. Adam’s fondest childhood memories centre around the cottage, and when Aimee was introduced to the area she fell in love with the beauty of County Mayo and was thrilled to learn she had family connections there, as well! “Ashford Castle represents the history and beauty of this area,” says Aimee. “It was an easy decision to get married in this stunning venue.” And just like that, the date was chosen, the invites were sent, and shortly after, the day arrived!
One of Aimee’s favourite memories of the day was eating breakfast, relaxing and getting ready with her girls before the ceremony. It was a special time of bonding and toasting the day to come. When it was time to get ready, each bridesmaid wore a dress from Covet.
Yet another easy decision was the time of year the couple wanted to say their vows. “Autumn is our favourite time of year,” says Aimee. Flowers in every autumnal colour adorned the wedding, bridesmaids wore gorgeous dresses to match their bouquets, and the entrance to the ceremony was even decorated with fall foliage and gourds.
As the ceremony grew closer, Aimee was ready. “I wasn’t nervous at all. I knew everything was being taken care of,” Aimee says. “Tara was able to get to know our personalities, our likes and dislikes, our values… and produce a wedding that was even better than our wildest dreams.” At St Mary’s Church, an historic church just off the castle grounds, guests were gathering and preparing for Adam and Aimee’s walks down the aisle.
One of Adam’s favourite memories from the day was watching Aimee walk down the aisle. His second favourite memory was their first dance.
The groom and groomsmen got their suits from Louis Copeland & Sons. Inside each suit, Adam and Aimee had created personalised designs to match each groomsmen. Inside Adam’s suit were bikes to represent his love of cycling.
With the ceremony complete, Aimee and Adam moved on to the reception where they were a special surprise was in store. “A friend of the family surprised us with waiters who transformed into opera singers midway through dinner,” says Aimee. “We were so shocked, but it was absolutely brilliant and amazing to be surprised at your own wedding!”
Boasting a surprise of their own, each guest found a personalised picture and note waiting for them at their seat in The George V Dining Room. “Watching them find and seeing their reactions was really special,” says Aimee.
With two full time jobs and the inability to spend every extra moment planning a wedding, Aimee and Adam say they knew from the start they wanted to hire a wedding planner. “Wedding planning is such a daunting task, without a planner we wouldn’t have known where to start,” says Aimee. “Our wedding day was one of the most important days in not only our lives, but the lives of our immediate families and we wanted it to be the best it could possibly be for everyone involved.”
Something that warms this planner’s heart? Aimee and Adam say there is nothing they would have done differently. “From going on a run to shake off the nerves first thing in the morning, to bringing our dog with us, to hiring the most incredible vendors,” says Aimee, “There is nothing we wouldn’t do exactly as we did it.”
From the incredibly grounds of Ashford Castle to the reception surprises to the very special love between Adam and Aimee, this won’t be a wedding I soon forget. I was honoured to plan such a special day and wish you two the very best of luck in life (and on your honeymoon in Kenya and the Seychelles)!
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.
