Tag: Irish destination wedding

Incorporating Traditional Irish Wedding Vows into Your Ceremony

by Harmony Walton

When planning a destination wedding in Ireland, weaving in cultural traditions can add a deeply personal and meaningful touch to your ceremony. One of the most beautiful ways to honour your Irish heritage is by including traditional Irish wedding vows. These vows, often inspired by ancient Celtic customs, carry poetic and heartfelt expressions of love, commitment, and unity. Whether you have Irish ancestry or simply appreciate the beauty of Irish traditions, including these vows will make your wedding ceremony truly memorable.

The Significance of Traditional Irish Wedding Vows

Unlike modern vows that can be extensively personalised, traditional Irish wedding vows have a poetic simplicity that reflects their ancient origins. Many are drawn from ancient Gaelic blessings, poetry, and folklore, reflecting the values of loyalty, devotion, and the enduring nature of love. Some couples choose to exchange their vows in English, while others embrace the lyrical beauty of the Irish language. These vows not only add a sense of history and romance, but also reflect the natural beauty and spiritual essence of Ireland itself.

An Example of Traditional Irish Wedding Vows

One of the most cherished sets of Irish vows is inspired by the ancient Celtic tradition of handfasting. (Although there are many other brilliant and beautiful Irish wedding traditions that are also worthy of consideration for your ceremony.) During this symbolic ritual, the couple’s hands are bound together with a ribbon or cord, representing their union. The vows themselves are beautifully poetic:

“You cannot possess me for I belong to myself
But while we both wish it, I give you that which is mine to give.
You cannot command me, for I am a free person
But I pledge to you that it will be your eyes into which I smile every morning,
It will be your lips that I kiss goodnight.
I pledge to you the first bite of my meat and the first drink from my cup.
I pledge to you my living and my dying, equally in your care.
I shall be a shield for your back and you for mine.
I shall not slander you, nor you me.
I shall honour you above all others,
And when we quarrel, we shall do so in private
And tell no strangers our grievances.
This is my wedding vow to you.
This is the marriage of equals.”

These words, rich in sentiment and symbolism, reflect the deep respect and partnership that define a marriage.

Incorporating Irish Traditions

Incorporating traditional Irish wedding vows into your ceremony is a wonderful way to celebrate Irish culture while creating a timeless, meaningful moment. As a wedding planner, I’m delighted to guide you through this heartfelt journey. Whether you opt for a full handfasting ritual or simply include a few lines in your ceremony, these vows are a poetic expression of love that will resonate with you and your guests for years to come. As you plan your Irish wedding, don’t be afraid to embrace the beauty of tradition. It will make your special day unforgettable. Here’s to a lifetime filled with love and happiness, inspired by the timeless traditions of Ireland.

Slán go Fóill,

Tara

Images by John Cain Photography

How to Host a Destination Wedding Welcome Dinner in Ireland

by Harmony Walton

Ireland’s breathtaking landscapes and rich heritage make it an unforgettable place to say “I do.” Before your wedding day, a well-planned welcome dinner offers a wonderful opportunity to gather your favourite people and ease into the festivities. With the right setting, food, and atmosphere, this evening can become one of the most heartfelt moments of your celebration.

Choose a Memorable Setting

Choose a venue that embodies Ireland’s charm and matches your wedding style. This could look like a snug lodge in the hills, a centuries-old estate, or a coastal retreat with dramatic views. Each space brings its own character and helps set the tone for the days ahead. I think it’s very important to prioritise intimacy, comfort, and an atmosphere that encourages mingling.

Set a Welcoming Ambience

The selection of lighting is a fundamental element for establishing mood. I love the soft illumination of combining candles and pendant lights, and hanging jars with fairy lights. The table design should include natural elements such as linen runners, local foliage, and ceramic plates to achieve a simple yet layered appearance. Providing guests with calligraphy place cards and welcome notes is a beautiful personal touch.

Design a Menu That Showcases Local Flavour

The Irish culinary tradition is based on fresh ingredients and high-quality products. Begin the meal with artisan breads, farmhouse cheeses, and a selection of smoked fish or cured meats. I think some of the best starter options could include leek soup, roasted beet salad, or crab cakes. For the main course, serve slow-cooked beef, grilled hake, or a vegetarian risotto with wild mushrooms. Then on to dessert—my favourite part. I suggest something indulgent such as rhubarb crumble or a custard tart flavoured with Irish cream.

Include Thoughtful Gestures

Use the evening to show your appreciation. Express gratitude to all guests who attended by giving a brief toast or speech. Offer small gifts like homemade soap, local honey, or miniature whiskey bottles. Since most people love to feel prepared for what happens next, it’s also a good idea to include an itinerary or welcome pack to provide guests with essential information and boost their excitement for the weekend.

Curate the Soundtrack

Live music can bring warmth to the evening. A harpist, acoustic guitarist, or Irish folk trio creates an elegant backdrop for conversation. However, I know that hiring musicians isn’t always feasible. This is why I tell my couples that a carefully selected playlist, played at a soft volume, serves as an equally effective alternative to hiring musicians.

Share Style Guidelines

To avoid confusion, let guests know how to dress. The welcome dinner is usually more relaxed than the wedding day, but it still calls for a polished look. A smart-casual dress code works well, especially in Irish weather, which may shift from sun to mist in a matter of hours. I always suggest layers! It’s also considerate to provide shawls and umbrellas if you’re planning anything outdoors.

Capture the Moments

Even informal gatherings deserve a few keepsakes. You may want to hire a photographer for part of the evening, or ask a friend to document it with their camera. These candid images often become favourites long after the wedding is over.

There are so many brilliant Destination Wedding Trends right now, but the welcome dinner serves as your opportunity to kick off the celebration with heartfelt meaning and a deeper connection to the location. The careful planning of this event allows your guests to create lasting memories while starting your wedding weekend in an elegant manner.

Slán go Fóill,

Tara

Images by 

Quiet Luxury at a Destination Wedding in Ireland

by Harmony Walton

Quiet luxury has emerged as one of the most defining aesthetics in modern weddings, and nowhere does it feel more at home than in the Irish countryside. I often work with couples who seek refined beauty – elegance that whispers rather than shouts. Quiet luxury at an Irish destination wedding is not about showy extravagance, but rather thoughtfulness, restraint, and impeccable taste.

The Venue: Understated Grandeur

Quiet luxury begins with the setting. In Ireland, that might mean a Georgian manor hidden among rolling hills, a private estate with centuries-old woodlands, or an ancient castle with candlelit corridors. These aren’t the kind of locations that clamour for attention. Instead, they’ve earn it through history, architecture, and atmosphere. In fact, Ireland is becoming a destination wedding hotspot for couples all over the world who value heritage and authenticity over trend-driven flash.

When creating a wedding design, we often lean into what’s already present: weathered stone, antique floor tiles, and aged oak. There’s no need for over-decoration when the surroundings speak volumes.

The Fashion: Tailored and Timeless

Attire plays a crucial role in setting the tone. For brides, this often means a gown that favours structure over embellishment, with rich fabrics, clean lines, and hand-finished details. Grooms frequently wear custom suiting in natural fibres such as wool or linen, drawing from a neutral palette that complements the setting.

Accessories are also carefully chosen. For example, a veil edged with heirloom lace, a pair of handmade shoes, or a fine brooch from a grandparent’s collection. These choices tell stories with more meaning than sparkle ever could.

The Table: Elegant Restraint

At the reception, quiet luxury comes to life through the chosen materials. Irish linen napkins, polished silverware and hand-thrown ceramic chargers create a dining experience that feels warm and considered. Florals are typically tonal, sculptural, and seasonal, gathered from local growers rather than imported in bulk.

The service is polished, discreet, and personal – more akin to a fine dinner party than a banquet – with menus leaning toward local wild-caught seafood, heritage meats, artisanal cheeses, and local wines or spirits.

The Experience: Intentional and Intimate

Rather than packed itineraries or gimmicks, couples focus on creating moments of stillness and connection. That might look like a fireside welcome the night before the ceremony, live acoustic music during dinner, or handwritten letters placed at each setting.

Many choose to weave in Irish touches that feel sincere. Perhaps a private Celtic blessing, a quiet toast with local mead, or a poet reading Seamus Heaney beneath the trees.

One of my favourite aspects is creating the guest experience with subtlety and care. Personalised welcome baskets filled with locally made treats, slow mornings with yoga or nature walks, and quiet spaces to rest between events. Every detail is considered for how it makes guests feel, not just how it looks. Conversations are valued over spectacle, and intimacy is prioritised over performance.

In this kind of wedding, joy is not performed for cameras; it’s lived in real time, shared among those who matter most.

Quiet luxury doesn’t chase attention; it lingers in memory because it’s so finely attuned to place, purpose, and presence. In Ireland, where beauty is often found in the mist and moss, this approach feels not only appropriate, but deeply poetic. For couples drawn to subtlety, heritage, and natural grandeur, there is no better place to begin a new chapter.

Slán go Fóill,

Tara

Images by Brosnan Photographic

2025 Destination Wedding Location Ideas: Luxury Celebrations in Portugal, Mallorca, and Ireland

by Harmony Walton

As a luxury wedding planner, one of my greatest joys is curating unforgettable experiences in some of the most stunning locations across Europe. For couples seeking the perfect destination to say “I do” in 2025, there are many options that offer unparalleled beauty, charm, and bespoke opportunities to make your special day truly extraordinary. Let me guide you through a few of my favourite 2025 destination wedding location ideas.

Portugal: Sun-kissed Elegance

Portugal continues to captivate couples with its warm climate, golden coastlines, and rich cultural heritage. For 2025, the Algarve’s sun-drenched beaches remain a timeless choice, but Lisbon and Sintra are emerging as luxury wedding hot spots. (Here are some I think are brilliant.)

When you think Portugal, think Lisbon. Historic palaces and chic rooftop venues overlooking the city’s iconic terracotta rooftops create the perfect backdrop for a cosmopolitan celebration. Sintra, with its fairy-tale castles such as the Palácio de Pena, create a romantic and whimsical setting amidst lush, rolling hills.

One unique trend I’ve seen is incorporating Portugal’s famous gastronomy into the wedding menu. Fresh seafood, pastel de nata desserts, and world-class wines. A live Fado performance adds a soulful touch. These are the kinds of memories that guests will treasure forever.

Mallorca: Mediterranean Bliss

Mallorca, the crown jewel of the Balearic Islands, is a haven for couples dreaming of a sun-soaked wedding with a touch of glamour. This Mediterranean paradise combines natural beauty with sophisticated luxury. Imagine exchanging vows at a clifftop villa overlooking the azure sea or hosting a reception in a historic finca nestled among olive groves and vineyards. The island’s luxury hotels offer impeccable service and exclusivity for couples wanting a flawless experience.

For 2025, consider embracing Mallorca’s bohemian-chic vibe. Decor inspired by the island’s natural palette—terracotta, creamy whites, and lush greens—pairs beautifully with al fresco dining under twinkling fairy lights. Serve your guests local delicacies like sobrassada and ensaïmada, paired with Mallorcan wines. You can’t go wrong in Mallorca.

Ireland: Timeless Romance

Ireland’s romantic allure will forever make it one of the best destination wedding locations. In 2025, it continues to enchant couples who desire an elegant wedding steeped in tradition and natural beauty. In Ireland, there are so many options to consider. Imagine a ceremony in the grandeur of a castle like Ashford or Adare, followed by a reception in a stately ballroom adorned with cascading floral arrangements. For those seeking something more intimate, a clifftop vow exchange offers breathtaking views and timeless wonder for all who attend.

One trend gaining momentum in Ireland is the use of seasonal touches that celebrate the country’s rich heritage—autumn weddings featuring warm, earthy tones and hearty menus, or spring ceremonies bursting with wildflowers and fresh, local fare. (Much like Aimee and Shane’s autumn wedding at Adare Manor.)

Why Choose One? Combine Them!

For couples truly seeking a once-in-a-lifetime experience, a multi-destination wedding is a rising trend. Begin with a chic civil ceremony in Lisbon, host a pre-wedding soirée in Mallorca, and conclude with a grand celebration in an Irish castle. The possibilities are as limitless as your imagination.

Each of these 2025 destination wedding location ideas offers a unique canvas for your dream day. Let’s make it extraordinary together!

Slán go Fóill,

Tara

Images by Story of Eve and Anée Atelier

Four Seasons in a Day: The Beauty of Getting Married in Irish Weather

by Harmony Walton

Ireland, often referred to as the Emerald Isle, is a land of breathtaking landscapes, historic castles, and a weather pattern that is as unpredictable as it is charming. One of the most unique and enchanting aspects of getting married in Ireland is the possibility of experiencing four seasons in a single day. While this may sound daunting to some, with the right planning, it can add a magical and vibrant touch to your wedding, making it an unforgettable experience for you and your guests.

The Mystery of Irish Weather

The weather in Ireland is famously changeable. You might wake up to a crisp, sunny morning, only to find yourself sheltering from a brief shower by noon, enjoying a balmy afternoon, and perhaps witnessing a misty, romantic evening. This dynamic weather can be a beautiful metaphor for the journey of marriage itself, full of unexpected moments that bring depth and richness to your life together.

Planning for the Unpredictable

The key to embracing Ireland’s capricious weather is preparation. Here are some tips to ensure your wedding day is as smooth as it is spectacular:

Flexible Attire: When I plan an Irish wedding, I plan for four seasons. Literally. I bring shawls, sunscreen, hats, umbrellas and blankets. I remind my couples to encourage their bridal party and guests to dress in layers. (Here’s a great list you can share of what to pack for an Irish destination wedding.) Elegant shawls and cosy wraps can be worn on or off and add a touch of sophistication while keeping everyone comfortable. Brides might consider a dress with removable sleeves or a chic bolero. And I always encourage dresses to have the hems professional sprayed to protect from rain and muddy ground.

Outdoor and Indoor Venues: Choose a venue that offers both outdoor and indoor spaces. Many Irish castles and country estates provide beautiful gardens and grand indoor halls, allowing you to seamlessly transition between settings as the weather dictates.

Weather-Proof Décor: If your ceremony or reception is outdoors, look for decorations that can withstand a bit of wind or rain. Sturdy floral arrangements, waterproof table settings, and resilient fabrics will ensure that your décor remains stunning regardless of the weather.

Embrace the Elements: Incorporate the natural elements into your wedding theme. Use the rain as an opportunity for romantic photographs with umbrellas, capture the sunlight glistening off the dew, or let the wind add a whimsical touch to your veil and dress. Some of my favourite photos are those in which the couple leaned into the changing weather, resulting in some pretty epic portraits.

Capturing the Magic

Speaking of epic portraits, your wedding photographer will play a crucial role in capturing the beauty of Ireland’s weather. Choose a photographer experienced in shooting in various conditions, ensuring they can adapt to changing light and weather to create breathtaking images that tell the story of your day. Your wedding planner will be able to connect you with the best local photographers with the most experience.

Getting married in Ireland and embracing the possibility of four seasons in a day can turn your wedding into a truly unique and unforgettable celebration. By planning thoughtfully and viewing the weather as an enhancement rather than a hindrance, you’ll find that each change in the sky adds a new layer of beauty and excitement to your celebration. So, pack your wellies alongside your wedding shoes, and get ready to say “I do” in one of the most enchanting places on earth.

Slán go Fóill,

Tara

Images by Brett Harkness Photography, Aspect Photography and Ivana Patarcic Photography