Do you dream of a traditional wedding, or are you more in favour of a modern affair? Here at Irish Gift Solutions, we've put together a list of some popular Irish traditions - along with some modern twists - that you can choose to incorporate into your day.
Handfasting
With origins in Ireland's ancient Brehon Laws, handfasting involves the bride and groom's right hands being tied together with a ribbon - in fact, it's where the phrase 'tying the knot' comes from! This tradition has been revived in recent years as more and more couples who are opting for secular or humanist weddings incorporate it to symbolise their future being joined together.
Claddagh Rings
Lots of couples choose to make their commitment with Claddagh rings, which symbolise love, friendship and loyalty - key ingredients in any new marriage. A Claddagh ring with the heart pointed outwards means someone is looking for love, while when it's pointed in it means the wearer's heart already belongs to another.
The speeches
Traditionally, Irish wedding speeches were a man's affair, with the groom, the best man and the father of the bride called on to share a few words. At many weddings today, the mic is shared with the female members of the bridal party. The days of a raucous best man's speech are largely gone, and the expectation is that speeches are of a more wholesome nature, paying tribute to the couple and their journey so far.Photos
These days, many couples are rejecting the posed photos of the past. Instead of grinning until their mouths are aching as various groups of the bridal party, family and friends are posed beside them, many couples are choosing a more candid approach, where the photographer captures natural moments, giving you a book of cherished memories that truly records your day.
The sing-song
It simply wouldn't be an Irish wedding without a sing-song. Visitors from other countries might think that after the band or DJ is finished the night is about to wind down, but they are mistaken - the night is still young. A small crowd generally takes to the resident's bar for a few more drinks and some Irish tunes.
The after-party
So you finally got to bed at 4 or 5am and now you think the wedding is over? Not quite. It's not often you get all your family and friends together for a big occasion, and in recent years an after-party the following day has become a new tradition. After a few hours sleep, your closest friends and family get together for one more celebration before the couple heads off into married life.
Which will you be incorporating into your big day? And what other Irish traditions do you love?
If you're part of the bridal party, have you found the perfect gift yet? We have a wonderful range of traditional Irish wedding gifts that pay tribute to the couple and to Irish culture.
Get in touch if you have any questions, we're always happy to help.
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