Tag: wedding planning

What is the Irish Wedding Bell Ceremony?

by Harmony Walton

Breathtaking weddings are steeped in Ireland’s history, culture, and enchantment. One of the most beautiful and symbolic Irish wedding traditions that many couples incorporate into their ceremonies is the Irish Wedding Bell Ceremony. This age-old custom is not only a romantic nod to Ireland’s past but also a meaningful way to bless the couple’s union with love and harmony.

The Significance of Wedding Bells in Irish Tradition

Wedding bells have long been associated with Irish nuptials. Historically, the ringing of bells was believed to ward off evil spirits and ensure a marriage filled with good fortune. The bell’s chime was also thought to bring clarity and peace, reminding couples of their vows during times of difficulty. In modern weddings, this tradition has evolved into the Irish Wedding Bell Ceremony—a heartfelt moment that adds a touch of magic and sentimentality to the celebration.

How the Irish Wedding Bell Ceremony Works

During the ceremony, a small handbell—often crafted from fine silver or a family heirloom—is rung either by the officiant, the couple, or even their guests. This gentle chime symbolises the blessings of love, unity, and everlasting happiness. There are a few different ways to incorporate this tradition into a luxury wedding, and I often work with couples to personalise it to suit their style and preferences.

The Couple’s Bell Ringing: Just before or after exchanging vows, the couple rings the wedding bell together, symbolising their commitment and the joyful beginning of their life as one.

The Guests’ Blessing: Small bells can be distributed among guests, allowing them to ring them in celebration as the couple shares their first kiss or is pronounced married. This creates a stunning auditory experience, reminiscent of church bells ringing in the distance.

A Keepsake Bell: Many couples choose to have a specially designed wedding bell engraved with their names and wedding date, serving as a cherished keepsake that they can ring during anniversaries as a reminder of their vows.

Ringing Away Disputes: A charming interpretation of this tradition suggests that whenever a disagreement arises, ringing the wedding bell will bring harmony back to the marriage, reinforcing the values of love and understanding.

Incorporating Wedding Bells into an Irish Wedding

For couples seeking an exquisite destination wedding in Ireland, the Wedding Bell Ceremony adds a unique cultural and sentimental touch. I often recommend custom-made bells from renowned Irish artisans, featuring intricate Celtic designs, family crests, or even a touch of gold for added opulence. Some couples may choose to incorporate the bell motif into wedding stationery, table décor, or favours to further enhance this elegant theme.

At some of Ireland’s most luxurious wedding venues—think fairytale castles, stately manors, or coastal retreats—the gentle chime of wedding bells can beautifully echo through historic halls or open landscapes, making the moment truly unforgettable.

A Tradition That Stands the Test of Time

The Irish Wedding Bell Ceremony is a poetic and symbolic way to honour Irish heritage while embracing a timeless ritual of love and unity. What I love most about this tradition is knowing the sweet sound of wedding bells will forever resonate as a blessing upon your marriage. Here’s to your lifetime of harmony and happiness.

Slán go Fóill,

Tara

Images by John Cain Photography

Destination Wedding Trends for 2025

by Harmony Walton

The world of destination weddings continues to evolve, with couples in 2025 seeking bespoke experiences that reflect their personalities while embracing the unique allure of their chosen locations. As a luxury wedding planner, I’ve observed some captivating trends shaping the year ahead. If you’re planning a celebration that hits all the destination wedding trends for 2025, let me get you started with my predictions for the coming year.

Hybrid Celebrations

Hybrid weddings are on the rise, with couples merging the convenience of virtual participation with the intimacy of in-person celebrations. For destination weddings, this allows loved ones unable to travel to be part of the day through live streams or interactive virtual activities, ensuring everyone feels included.

Immersive Cultural Experiences

2025 couples are drawn to destinations that allow them and their guests to delve into the local culture. This goes beyond the setting—think intimate cooking classes, guided tours of historic landmarks, or even a traditional blessing as part of the ceremony. A wedding in Tuscany might include a pre-wedding vineyard tour, while an Irish castle celebration could feature a harpist playing Celtic melodies during dinner.

Eco-Conscious Celebrations

Sustainability is no longer just a buzzword; it’s a core value for modern couples. Eco-conscious destination weddings are growing in popularity, with couples opting for locally sourced menus, seasonal flowers, and venues that prioritise sustainability. Many are choosing locations that champion green initiatives, from eco-lodges to venues with renewable energy programmes.

Weeklong Weddings

Destination weddings are evolving into full-scale holiday experiences. Instead of one or two days, many couples are hosting weeklong celebrations. This trend is especially popular in picturesque locations like Santorini or the Amalfi Coast, where couples plan multi-day itineraries: welcome dinners, sightseeing excursions, sunset cocktail hours, and post-wedding brunches. These longer stays foster deeper connections among guests while maximising the destination experience.

Destination-Inspired Décor

Couples are increasingly weaving their destination into every detail of the wedding. This can be as subtle as menu cards adorned with illustrations of local landmarks or as bold as a reception space designed to mimic the destination’s natural beauty. In Provence, this might mean tablescapes featuring lavender and olive branches; in Marrakech, it could be Moroccan lanterns and intricate textiles.

Vibrant Colour Palettes

Neutral tones have dominated weddings in recent years, but 2025 is ushering in a renaissance of colour. Couples are embracing vibrant palettes that reflect the essence of their chosen location. Think coral and turquoise for a tropical beach wedding, rich emeralds and golds for a ceremony in an Irish forest, or terracotta and mustard hues for a Spanish vineyard celebration.

Personalised Guest Experiences

2025 couples are going above and beyond to ensure their guests feel cherished. Welcome gifts are evolving into curated keepsakes inspired by the destination—a handmade pottery piece in Greece or locally distilled whiskey in Ireland. These thoughtful touches elevate the guest experience, leaving a lasting impression.

After-Parties with a Twist

The celebration doesn’t stop at the reception. Destination weddings are embracing unique after-parties, such as bonfires on the beach, silent discos in historic ruins, or stargazing soirées in desert locales. These innovative experiences add another layer of magic to the festivities.

Destination weddings in 2025 are about more than just exchanging vows in a picturesque setting—they’re about creating unforgettable moments that resonate deeply with couples and their loved ones. With these trends, your celebration will be nothing short of extraordinary. (Ps. Just because it’s a new year, doesn’t mean last years trends aren’t relevant. You might find some more inspiration here: Destination Wedding Trends for 2024)

Slán go Fóill,

Tara

Images by Anée Atelier

Cheese as a Wedding Cake – A Luxurious Twist

by Harmony Walton

As a luxury wedding planner in Ireland, I’ve seen my fair share of trends come and go (and I talk about some of my favourites in this article on PopSugar), but one that has taken hold in recent years is the delightful and unexpected trend of using cheese as a wedding cake. This indulgent alternative to the traditional sweet cake is perfect for couples who want to offer something unique and memorable at their wedding reception. With the rise of farm-to-table dining and a renewed appreciation for artisanal Irish produce, cheese towers have become a symbol of luxury, sophistication, and a celebration of Ireland’s rich culinary heritage.

A Bespoke Culinary Experience

What makes a cheese wedding cake so alluring is its ability to offer a completely bespoke experience. Unlike traditional cakes, where you may be limited by flavour profiles and decoration, a cheese tower allows for endless customisation. As a planner, I work closely with artisan cheese suppliers to curate a selection that reflects not only the couple’s taste preferences but also their story.

Many Irish couples enjoy incorporating local cheeses into their tower, paying homage to Ireland’s world-renowned dairy industry. A typical tower might feature rich Cashel Blue from Tipperary, a smooth and creamy St Tola goat’s cheese from County Clare, and a strong, crumbly Cahill’s Porter cheese, which adds both flavour and visual intrigue with its marbled appearance. For couples wishing to indulge their guests further, I recommend adding imported cheeses to complement the Irish offerings—perhaps a delicate French Brie or a robust Manchego.

Designing the Perfect Cheese Cake

Just like a traditional wedding cake, a cheese cake can be a showstopping centrepiece. As a luxury wedding planner, my role is to ensure that the cheese tower is not only delicious but also visually stunning. Each cheese wheel is carefully chosen for its shape, colour, and texture, crafting a tiered masterpiece that rivals any confection. Garnishing the cheese tower with fresh fruits, figs, berries, and even edible flowers can add vibrant splashes of colour, while rustic elements like fresh herbs or leaves provide a natural, organic feel.

For couples desiring an extra touch of opulence, I often suggest pairing the cheese tower with artisanal breads, crackers, and a selection of chutneys and honey. A beautifully designed grazing table featuring these accompaniments, along with cured meats and pâté, creates an interactive dining experience where guests can serve themselves throughout the evening.

A Unique Take on Tradition

One of the most appealing aspects of a cheese wedding cake is its ability to turn tradition on its head without sacrificing elegance. Many couples like to keep the ceremonial cutting of the cake, but instead of the classic sweet slice, they slice into a large wheel of cheese. This can be a fun and memorable moment for the couple, and it invites guests to partake in a one-of-a-kind culinary experience. As an alternative, I often suggest serving the cheese cake alongside a more traditional dessert table, offering both sweet and savoury options to guests.

Pairing the Cheese Cake with Wine

A cheese wedding cake is more than just a savoury treat; it can also become an integral part of a couple’s overall dining experience. As part of my planning services, I often collaborate with expert sommeliers to pair each tier of the cheese cake with wines that enhance and complement the flavours. Whether it’s a crisp Sauvignon Blanc to cut through the richness of a Brie or a full-bodied Bordeaux to pair with a mature cheddar, these pairings can elevate the dining experience and add another layer of luxury.

The Perfect Ending to a Wedding Feast

In Ireland, where the landscape lends itself to exceptional dairy produce, a cheese wedding cake is the perfect way to honour local craftsmanship while adding a luxurious twist to a couple’s big day. Whether used as a savoury centrepiece or incorporated into an elaborate grazing table, this trend is a testament to how versatile and sophisticated Irish weddings can be.

Slán go Fóill,

Tara

Images by Brosnan Photographic and Aspect Photography

You’re Engaged! Here’s How to Begin Planning Your Dream Destination Wedding

by Harmony Walton

Congratulations, you’re engaged! That sparkling ring marks the beginning of one of life’s most enchanting adventures: planning your wedding. For couples dreaming of a destination wedding, the excitement is amplified by the allure of saying “I do” in a faraway place. However, when you’re engaged and planning a destination wedding, you’ll soon realize it’s no small feat! That’s where I come in as your luxury wedding planner. Let me guide you through the initial steps to turn your dream into reality.

Step One: Envision Your Dream Destination

Start by imagining the location that speaks to your hearts as a couple. Is it the romance of Italy’s Amalfi Coast, the charm of a French château, or the timeless beauty of an Irish castle? Perhaps you’re dreaming of tropical shores or a secluded mountain retreat. Your chosen destination sets the tone for your wedding, so ensure it reflects your personality and love story.

Consider the logistical aspects: Is the location accessible for your guests? Does it have the infrastructure to host a wedding of your desired scale? A wedding planner like myself, with destination expertise, will provide invaluable insights into these questions, helping you make a well-informed decision.

Step Two: Create a Vision and Budget

Every luxury wedding begins with a clear vision. Do you picture an opulent celebration dripping in florals or a more intimate gathering with understated elegance? Collaborate with your planner to craft a cohesive style, incorporating elements that resonate with you—whether it’s bespoke invitations, artisan catering, or live entertainment.

Equally important is understanding that a luxury wedding is an investment, and having clarity on where to allocate resources ensures your priorities are met. Your planner will help you identify costs unique to destination weddings, such as travel logistics, accommodations, and local vendor fees.

Step Three: Build Your Guest List

Destination weddings often lend themselves to more intimate guest lists, as not everyone will be able to travel. Consider creating a “VIP” list of essential attendees. Communicate your plans early, allowing guests ample time to make arrangements. A thoughtfully crafted wedding website can be an excellent resource for sharing itineraries, travel details, and accommodations.

Step Four: Partner with a Local Expert

A luxury destination wedding requires impeccable coordination. As your wedding planner, I work with a trusted network of local vendors who understand the nuances of your chosen destination. Whether that is securing a stunning venue or navigating local marriage laws and customs, my expertise ensures a seamless experience. I also serve as your advocate, ensuring that cultural and logistical elements blend harmoniously with your vision.

Step Five: Plan an Unforgettable Experience

A destination wedding is not just a single-day event—it’s a journey for you and your guests. Consider curating a multi-day celebration. Think welcome cocktails overlooking the cliffs of Moher, a rehearsal dinner featuring regional cuisine, and post-wedding activities like guided tours or spa retreats. These moments create cherished memories for you and your loved ones.

Step Six: Trust the Process

When you’re engaged and planning a destination wedding you may find yourself feeling overwhelmed, but take heart! It’s a journey worth savouring. With the right team by your side, every detail is thoughtfully handled. From scouting venues to finalising floral arrangements, I’ll ensure that the experience is as enjoyable as the day itself.

Your engagement marks the start of an extraordinary chapter. Let’s craft a destination wedding that’s as unique and unforgettable as your love story.

Slán go Fóill,

Tara

Images by Story of Eve

5 Essential Tips for Hosting Your Destination Wedding in Ireland

by Harmony Walton

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.

Slán go Fóill,

Tara

Images by Eric Kelley

Top Cocktail Trends of 2024 for Your Destination Wedding

by Harmony Walton

As a destination wedding planner I can confidently say the role of cocktails has evolved beyond simple refreshments to become integral elements of the celebration. Today’s cocktails reflect the locale, culture, and personal style of the couple. The top cocktail trends of 2024 for destination weddings are all about innovation, sustainability, and a deep connection to the wedding’s setting. Here’s a look at what’s making waves in the world of wedding cocktails this year.

Interactive Cocktail Experiences

Interactive elements are transforming cocktail service into an experience in itself. In 2024, destination weddings are seeing the rise of cocktail stations where guests can get involved in creating their own drinks. Think build-your-own margarita bars at a Mexican beach wedding or DIY Irish coffee stations at a cosy winter celebration in the countryside. These experiences allow guests to tailor their drinks to their liking, adding an element of engagement to the event.

Signature Cocktail Bars

Personalisation continues to reign supreme, with couples curating bespoke cocktail bars that reflect their tastes and the spirit of their destination. Signature cocktails named after meaningful locations or moments in the couple’s relationship are becoming increasingly popular. Think: a “Royale Raspberry Martini” at a historic castle or a “Sunset Spritz” inspired by the golden hour in which the couple first met.

Locally Sourced Ingredients

One of the biggest trends in 2024 is the use of locally sourced ingredients. Couples are choosing to highlight the flavours of their wedding destination by incorporating native fruits, herbs, and spirits into their cocktail menus. For example, an Irish destination wedding might feature cocktails made with wild elderflower, fresh blackberries, or Irish gin, giving guests a true taste of the locale. Locally sourced ingredients enhance the authenticity of the experience while also supporting local producers and showcasing the region’s unique offerings.

Sustainability and Eco-Friendly Practices

Sustainability is more than just a trend—it’s a movement that’s influencing every aspect of weddings, including cocktails. In 2024, eco-conscious couples are opting for cocktails that are not only delicious but also kind to the environment. (The kind of cocktails that would go over brilliantly at an extravagant garden wedding.) This includes using organic spirits, biodegradable straws, and garnishes that are either edible or compostable. Bartenders are getting creative with zero-waste cocktails, using every part of the fruit or herb, and even recycling ingredients to reduce the carbon footprint of the wedding bar.

Floral and Herbal Infusions

Floral and herbal-infused cocktails are making a strong statement in 2024, particularly at weddings where the natural beauty of the destination plays a central role. Lavender, rosemary, and elderflower are popular choices for infusions, adding a delicate, aromatic touch to cocktails. For a vineyard wedding, herbs from the vineyard garden could be used to create bespoke infusions, while a wedding in a lush, tropical locale might feature hibiscus or passionflower in the cocktails. These botanical elements not only enhance the flavours but also tie the cocktails to the natural surroundings.

Low-ABV and Non-Alcoholic Options

As wellness becomes a greater priority for many, the trend towards low-alcohol (Low-ABV) and non-alcoholic cocktails is growing. Couples are increasingly including these options to cater to a broader range of guests. Non-alcoholic cocktails are no longer an afterthought; they are crafted with the same attention to detail as traditional cocktails, ensuring that everyone who has travelled to your wedding can enjoy a sophisticated drink, regardless of their preferences.

In 2024, cocktail trends for destination weddings are all about reflecting the couple’s unique story and the beauty of their chosen location. Whether through locally sourced ingredients, interactive cocktail stations, or eco-friendly practices, the drinks served at these celebrations are designed to leaving guests with lasting impressions of the couple’s special day. So, as you plan your destination wedding, consider these trends to make your cocktail hour something to write home about.

Slán go Fóill,

Tara

Images by Story of Eve and Lisa O’Dwyer and Brosnan Photographic