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Destination Wedding Trends for 2024

February 20, 2024 by Harmony Walton

One of the beautiful things about life is that it’s always changing. It makes sense that love and weddings are ever-evolving, too. Here are some 2024 destination wedding trends to consider as you begin your planning adventure:

Unplugged Weddings

While this isn’t a new idea, it’s gaining popularity year by year. Some guests might struggle with unplugging from their ever-present electronic devices, but if you make it a wedding rule, you’ll find that most will thank you for the break from reality by the end of the event. Without distractions, your guests can truly spend some intentional time with one another. When you ask guests to disconnect from their devices during the ceremony, it encourages a more present and intimate experience. Plus, you don’t have to worry about the incredibly awkward moment of a ringing phone in the middle of your vows!

Virtual Elements

It might sound like I’m contradicting myself with the last point, but with the rise of virtual weddings during the pandemic, lots of couples have continued to incorporate virtual elements into their destination weddings for guests who can’t attend in person. Being able to attend in real-time, even though they are miles (or countries) away, will mean so much to your loved ones. Plus, with the ability to record and live-stream each precious moment, this reduces your guests’ compulsion to grab their devices and record for you. It also reduces the amount of cell phones inelegantly held overhead during the ceremony.

Eco-Friendly Weddings & Cultural Experiences

Sustainability and eco-consciousness have been on the rise in the wedding industry. Couples are choosing eco-friendly destination wedding locations, minimizing waste, and opting for sustainable décor and practices. They have also become much more culturally aware. Couples have been going out of their way to incorporate the customs of local culture into their wedding, including cuisine, music, and traditions. Here are some unique ways to incorporate cultural aspects and Make Your Irish Destination Wedding Stand Out.

Unique Locations & Intimate Gatherings

Couples are looking beyond traditional wedding locations and seeking unique, off-the-beaten-path destinations for their weddings. This might include mountains, forests, historical landmarks, or (may I suggest) beautiful historic Irish castles? With locations becoming more remote, we’ve seen another trend sprout forth – smaller, more intimate gatherings. Couples are often opting for quality time with a select group of loved ones rather than hosting large affairs. Pared-down events might also allow couples to invite their guests to spend more days or attend more activities.

Multi-Day Celebrations

That being said, some couples are extending their destination wedding festivities over several days, allowing for more relaxed and meaningful interactions with their guests. Knowing there are extra days to spend celebrating means more time for conversation with family and friends. It also means more time for adventures – like hiking, hot air ballooning, boating or falconry! Yep. Falconry.

As trends vary from year to year, you can depend on your wedding planner to keep you in the loop on factors like culture, economy and current events (especially if you plan on having your destination wedding in Ireland or any other country). One thing that never changes, though, are that weddings will always be about celebrating love and bringing friends and family together for the most important moment of your lives. That’s something we can always rely on.

Slán go Fóill,

Tara

Images collected from Story of Eve

Ashford Castle Wedding Venue: A Complete Guide

February 13, 2024February 6, 2024 by Harmony Walton

About Ashford Castle

Voted the most romantic hotel in Europe, Ashford Castle is a fairy tale venue. Boasting suites tucked away in turrets, breathtaking views, and luxurious accommodations, it is unlikely anyone will forget a wedding event hosted at Ashford Castle. Before we get into the unbelievable details of this extravagant venue, let’s dive into the castle’s history.

Although Ashford Castle has a truly remarkable history, its greatest claim to fame is its standing as the former home of the Guinness family. This 800-year-old castle has played host to notables and royalty, including The Prince of Wales (later King George V), George Harrison, John Lennon, Rory McIlroy, Prince Edward, Earl of Wessex and President Ronald Reagan (to name a few). After a five-year restoration that included the talents of local experts and artisans, Ashford Castle remains an impeccable example of medieval and Victorian architecture. Although the walls may be ancient, the Red Carnation hotel inside is the picture of luxury.

After the castle re-opened in April 2015 following major refurbishment (820 windows were replaced, a new lead roof installed, and its stonework repointed), Ashford Castle has gone on to be awarded as a Forbes five-star hotel, as well as the Ashford Castle Spa, making them the first and only hotel in Ireland to hold two Forbes Five-Star awards. A few other awards of note include No. 1 in The 5 Best Hotel Resorts in the UK and Ireland (Travel + Leisure 2022), 5 Star Hotel Bar of the Year (Bar of the Year Awards 2022), and Winner of Sustainability Initiative Of The Year – Communities (The Travel Industry Awards 2022).

Why I Love Planning Weddings at Ashford Castle

Honestly, who wouldn’t love planning a wedding at Ashford Castle? It’s like coordinating a fairy tale! 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 towelling, feature lighting and drift off to dreamland on bespoke beds wrapped in Egyptian Cotton bed linens.

Ashford Castle Ceremony and Reception Spaces

No matter what you’re dream wedding looks like, Ashford Castle can make it come true. With the castle’s 83 bedrooms and suites, gatherings of all sizes can abide on the gorgeous property. From 16 to 160 guests, the sky is the limit. You can even hire the entire estate and make the entire place your own, allowing you and your wedding party to enjoy the full castle experience without interruption.

When I think of an “unforgettable experience, I think of an “exclusive use” wedding at Ashford Castle. This means all estate activities are available for your and your guests to enjoy (this includes falconry, equestrian, golf, river cruising, fishing and spa treatments), exclusive use of all restaurants and bars including The George V Dining Room, and the underground Wine Cellars for a magical pre-wedding event. Sweets can be provided by the epic PaulaPastry. Soak in a ‘secret garden’ feel when we plan your ceremony in the Walled Garden. Retreat to the Maigue Suite, or to Oak Hall located at the heart of the castle, where your reception will have your guests reminiscing for years to come.

Need more options? Say no more. How about hosting your ceremony in the Castle’s Drawing Room? Were you imagining more of a church vibe? Saint Mary’s Church Cong is located in the village, just a three-minute drive from the Ashford Estate. Just 40 minutes further, you’ll find historic Ballintubber Abbey, a popular destination for many a bride and groom. When all is said and done, couples can retreat and recover at The Boathouse or the legendary Reagan Presidential Suite.

Let’s look into some of these options a little further.

The George V Dining Room

Produced exclusively for the Ashford Estate, creative Irish cuisine inspired by the first seasonal ingredients from the West of Ireland is presented by Executive Chef Liam Finnegan in The George V Dining Room. Along with fresh produce foraged from the estate itself, alongside an extensive wine cellar, it’s no wonder The George V Dining Room has hosted distinguished guests from almost 800 years. Your guests can dine where the Prince of Wales (also known as George V of England) dined in a special dining room built in honour of his visit in 1905.

Experiencing Chef Liam Finnegan’s culinary brilliance is not limited to just the Dining Room- there’s also casual dining in the beautiful setting of Cullen’s at the Cottage or the atmospheric Dungeon, or a delightful Afternoon Tea in the elegant Connaught Room. A note to all my couples who value sustainability and shopping local: Ashford Castle proudly shares the same beliefs. In the castle’s six restaurants and three bars, much of the produce is sourced locally or grown in their own gardens and polytunnels.

PaulaPastry

Here’s something I’m really excited about – PaulaPastry! Who better to provide your wedding day treats than award-winning chef, Paula Stakelum? Ashford Castle Estate has launched a new chocolate and patisserie concept, PaulaPastry, developed by by Chef Paula Stakelum herself. Crafted in small batches by Paula and her team, each delectable treat comes with meticulous attention to detail and the finest flavours possible. Your guests will write home about the signature chocolate shards, indulgent praline spreads, chocolate-covered nuts, and hot chocolates.

The Wine Cellar

Listen closely, my friends. If you want to impress, invite your guests to follow you into the secret tunnels of Ashford Castle. They will gasp in awe as they take in the historic passageways that were unearthed during the renovations and be taken aback even still when they experience a private dinner and wine pairing in these 16th-century tunnels. The cosy ambience and soft lighting is the perfect atmosphere for an intimate celebration. The knowledgeable Head Sommelier will educate your guests on his carefully curated wine list. He may also inform you of the history of the cellar and its beginnings as the old servants’ entrance to the coal bunker where buckets were gathered and delivered to warm up each of the rooms of the castle.

The Walled Garden

If you’ve always imagined Ashford Castle as your wedding venue, but you’ve envisioned something more outdoor and garden-themed, they’ve got you covered. The gardens at Ashford Castle are something out of a ‘secret garden’ fantasy. Restored with loving attention to its original formation in the 1890s, the great formal Main Parterre, the beautiful Walled Garden full of perennial borders, fruit and vegetables, and the long Terraced Walk and Broad Walk are perfect for an open-air ceremony. Afterwards, you and your new spouse can spend time wandering and reflecting in the great woods, where the wildlife and great ancient trees add towering and unparalleled ambiance.

Connaught Room

Treat your guests and indulge in speciality teas, delicate finger sandwiches with traditional fillings, warm scones and handmade pastries in the Connaugt Room. The floor-to-ceiling windows offer spectacular views of the manicured gardens and Lough Corrib. Not to mention the captivating Donegal Crystal chandelier, panelled oak walls, and hand-carved fireplace. I think a Welcome Brunch would be fabulous in this space. It’s also available for Afternoon Tea or a private Wine Dinner.

Oak Hall

Everyone’s breath will be stolen by the incredible Oak Hall, one of the remaining features of the Guinness period. The crystal chandelier that hangs overhead looms largely, but not as largely as the castle’s 80kg (170lb) Irish wolfhounds (beautiful and docile dogs) who are often found relaxing here, among the fresh flowers. In Oak Hall, you’ll also find the castle’s guestbook, an enticing read full of names, both celebrity and royal. Above the hall, on the mezzanine is a library of over 800 antique books. It’s a spectacle to behold and a remarkable place to greet your guests for a cocktail hour!

The Boathouse

One of my favourite spaces at Ashford Castle is the restored boathouse, located a few minutes from the castle, on the shores of Lough Corrib. Constructed more than a century ago, The Boathouse is a hideaway for two, an intimate and private escape, a place to relax in isolation. Originally used by the Guinness’ to store Italian Riva boats, The Boathouse offers lake views that will fill your heart with peace and your ears with the soothing sounds of lapping lake waters.

When you’ve had your fill of the expansive views, you and your new spouse can retreat to the marble-lined bathroom and soak in the deluxe tub for two after dining à deux inside or al fresco on your private lakeside terrace. If you can ever get your fill of the incredible architectural and interior design detailing (including handmade timber parquet floors, original art, bespoke Murano glass chandelier, and king-sized bed), you’ll find two bicycles for jaunts around the property. Return home, enter through the gates, unlock your front door, and find your 24-hour butler ready to take your dessert order. Is this a dream? If it is, I promise to ask the incredible staff to not wake you two up!

The Reagan Presidential Suite

Located in the oldest wing of the castle, I always recommend The Reagan Presidential Suite. There is nothing more romantic for a bridal suite than an original wood fireplace, antique George III style four-poster bed, original portrait art, individually sourced antiques and spectacular floor-to-ceiling views of Lough Corrib. This split-level suite offers two bathrooms and can be combined with two adjacent rooms – the Kennedy Suite and Corrib Lake View Room – to complete a private three-bedroom wing of the castle.

This suite also includes a complimentary bar, complimentary viewing of “Quiet Man” (the movie filmed at Ashford Castle), 24-hour in-room dining, and many other exclusive amenities. Definitely the kind of perks all couples will want to take advantage of!

Additional Events and Activities

From Ireland’s first and finest falconry school, to horse-riding, golf, fishing, tennis, kayaking, archery, clay pigeon shooting and cosy movie nights in our stylish private cinema, Ashford Castle has a myriad of experiences and activities to keep your guests entertained. Here are just a few:

For hundreds of years, the grounds of Ashford Castle have been hailed as one of the finest sporting estates in all of Ireland, if not the world – which is proudly continues to this day. I am a confident fan of the dedicated Activity Coordinators, Michael and Fiona, who will guide each individual to the perfect past time. For example, those who love a day on the lake, experienced Lough Corrib guide, Frank, will take anyone out in the traditional wooden boats he hand-crafts himself. As a local marine and approved countryside guide by the Irish tourist board, Frank offers guided boat trips on Lough Corrib for up to three guests at a time, visiting its many beautiful islands.

Another option is falconry! An experience of a lifetime for those flower girls and ring bearers 7 years and older. Truly, the oldest established Falconry School in Ireland is an experience for those of all ages. Bond with a new hawk friend before sending them into the woodlands, gasping as they follow you from tree to tree, ready to return to your gloved hand when you call for them. Using their exceptional eyesight, speed, and training, the hawks will allow you to learn all their fascinating traits (via the Falconry School instructors, of course). What a unique and incredible memory to send your guests home with!

The Spa at Ashford Castle

Imagine spending time with your closest friends in this incredible place of relaxation. It is unlikely you’ll find a space that is more well known for its ability to rejuvenate and refresh in the entire country. This is why The Spa at Ashford Castle was awarded ‘Ireland’s Best Hotel Spa’ in 2021 for the 6th year in a row by World Spa Awards and we were also voted ‘Best in Sustainability’ in the 2019 Irish Tatler Awards.

If you’re going to spend time at Ashford Castle, I would highly recommend spending a significant amount of time at The Spa. The team is dedicated to restoring beauty and balance through treatments and spa journeys, personalised for each of their guests by exceptionally skilled therapists. I can’t recommend them highly enough. Your entire wedding party (and guests, as well) will leave feeling restored and renewed.

A Five Star Focus

Believe it or not, I am just scratching the surface of all the venue spaces and experiences Ashford Castle has to offer. If you’re interested in learning more, you can visit their website listed below. If you’re ready to take the leap and plan an incredible fairytale wedding at this magical castle in County Mayo, get in touch! Together, we can create something as marvelous as you absolutely deserve!

Ashford Castle Wedding Venue at a Glance

Address: Ashford Castle, Cong, Co. Mayo, F31 CA48, Ireland

Phone: +353 (0) 94 954 6003

Email: concierge@ashfordcastle.com

Website: https://ashfordcastle.com/

Slán go Fóill,

Tara

Images collected from The Ashford Castle website and Peter Carvill

Ireland Winter Wedding Do’s and Don’ts

February 6, 2024January 4, 2024 by Harmony Walton

Winter in Ireland is magical and wonderful in more ways than one. If you’re planning a seasonal wedding you’ve chosen just the right spot! While the basics of wedding planning remain the same, there are some Ireland winter wedding Do’s and Don’ts to keep in mind.

Do Dress in Layers

When it comes to winter weather, layers offer the most flexibility to change and adapt. By wearing layers, you can enjoy outdoor festivities while remaining cozy, and then hang up the extra pieces to dance the night away indoors. Plus, it doesn’t hurt to bring layers even if you don’t end up using all of them!

Don’t Expect Snow Everywhere

If you’re hoping for snow, you may want to research where it’s most likely to occur. Ireland does not get snow on all parts of the island. Some of the more mountainous regions will experience some snow, but the most common weather in winter is rain. If you’re really wanting that all-white winter, you can work it into your theme and design a winter wonderland without the hassle that real snow brings.

Do Provide Warmth for Your Guests

Winter in Ireland can get chilly, which means it is important to provide some form of warmth for your guests. Although your venue may provide a heated indoor space, a thoughtful way to show your guests you care is by providing ways for them to keep warm during the outdoor portions. This could be something as simple as having blankets ready, cozy shawls, or a warm drink bar would be lovely in the winter chill.

Don’t Underestimate the Rain

Irish winter weather can be unpredictable and often comes in the form of rain (rather than snow). Don’t let this dissuade you from a stunning seasonal wedding on the Emerald Isle. However, do make sure you keep an eye on weather patterns and adjust accordingly.

Do Book Accommodation in Advance

Tourism in Ireland is busy in the winter season so you’ll need to book in advance. When planning, try to give yourself and your guests enough time before the wedding to be able to secure accommodation during your wedding weekend.

Don’t Assume Everything is Open

As the season rolls in, hours of operation change across the country. Whether it’s local shops or even attractions you want to enjoy while in Ireland, make sure to do your research. Many places will shorten their hours for the winter and some may close for renovations, so it is always good to know before you go.

Do Be Mindful of Shorter Days

If you want your ceremony to take place in the daylight, or have plans for photos during the golden hour, just remember that the days become shorter as winter rolls in. With a little research, this is easy to work with and may simply require your day or reception starting a few hours earlier than you had expected.

Don’t Assume There’s Sufficient Heating

Although some of our oldest historic castles make for stunning wedding venues, it is important to check and make sure the venue has sufficient heating to keep you and your guests comfortable. While the majority of these venues have had modern heating and amenities built in, it is still good to double-check what they offer to combat the winter cold.

Don’t Let the Season Discourage You

Planning a winter wedding, like any wedding, has its own difficulties and details to look out for. This doesn’t mean it is impossible! In fact, some of my favorite Ireland weddings took place in the winter. Hopefully, these Ireland winter wedding Do’s and Don’ts can help you plan your perfect seasonal wedding in Ireland.

Slán go Fóill,

Tara

Images by Story of Eve

Real Wedding: Emma and Lane’s Wedding at Adare Manor

January 30, 2024January 3, 2024 by Harmony Walton

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.

Emma and Lane's Real Adare Manor Wedding

Emma and Lane's Real Adare Manor Wedding Reception

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

Why Choose Tara Fay Events?

January 9, 2024January 3, 2024 by Harmony Walton

Nice to meet you! I’m Tara Fay.

You may be wondering: Why Choose Tara Fay Events? Before I point you to my website and my Instagram where you can see many examples of my work, I thought I would start with an introduction. I am so excited you’re here and happy to share a little bit about myself!

First and foremost, I’m a Dublin girl and I truly believe Ireland is the most incredible place. No matter where in the world my career or travels with my husband and children take me, this city will always be my home. Even when I’m traveling, the Emerald Isle is never far from my heart. I’ve said it before, and I’ll say it again: I think this beautiful isle is simply the most magical place on earth!

Wedding planning is what I love to do (and I have been doing it internationally for more than two decades) but I am a fan of all events, big and small. I started my career as an event planner in Los Angeles but returned home to Ireland in 1997 to begin Xena Productions, which would eventually become Tara Fay Events. In those days, wedding planners were something completely new, and I think people thought I was a bit mad! We were the very first company here in Ireland to specialise in private parties, weddings, corporate and social events.

We’ve come a long way since! (My Instagram is a testament to this fact!)

Over the years, my team and I have created and produced many of the country’s most creative and extravagant celebrations for a discerning list of celebrities and leading business figures, both at home and abroad. We’ve had our work featured in all sorts of publications, including Hello Magazine, Martha Stewart Weddings, Brides, and many more. (Most recently, I was interviewed by The Knot about the Irish Ring Warming Ceremony.) I have been a regular guest on national radio and television and I host a YouTube channel with my colleague and dear friend, Bruce Russell, called: Bruce & Tara Live. You could say I keep quite busy!

If you’re newly engaged and ready to start looking for a wedding planner, here is my best advice:

First, ensure that you have a rapport with your wedding planner and can trust them. This will be the base of your relationship and the most important factor for a stress-free wedding experience. Second, learn about their pricing structure! This information will provide you with a better understanding of what you can expect from them. Lastly, request testimonials from the venue where you’d like to host your wedding, the vendors that you’d like to hire, and from couples they’ve worked with in your selected venue.

I’d love to help you plan the most important day of your life, so if you’d like to learn more about me or discuss working together, please don’t hesitate to get in touch!

I wish you all the best!!

Slán go Fóill,

Tara

Image by Barry McCall, Story of Eve, Aspect Photography and my Instagram

A Guide to Planning a Holiday Weekend Destination Wedding in Ireland

January 2, 2024January 3, 2024 by Harmony Walton

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.

Slán go Fóill,

Tara

Images by Fred Marigaux Photography, Story of Eve, Unikeye Photography