Unique Irish Wedding Traditions to Incorporate into Your Wedding Day

Ireland is a country rich in culture and tradition, and there are many unique customs that you can incorporate into your wedding day to make it truly special. Whether you're Irish or simply have a love for Irish culture, including these traditions can add an extra touch of magic to your big day. In this post, we'll explore some of the most popular Irish wedding traditions and share ideas for how you can incorporate them into your own wedding.

Beheded Child of Prague placed in the garden before the wedding day guarantees sunshine

1. Handfasting

   Handfasting is an ancient Celtic tradition that involves tying the hands of the bride and groom together with a ribbon or cord. This symbolizes their union and commitment to each other. You can incorporate this tradition into your wedding ceremony by having a handfasting ritual, where the officiant or a loved one ties the ribbon around your hands as you exchange vows.
   

2. Claddagh Rings

   Claddagh rings are a traditional Irish symbol of love, loyalty, and friendship. The ring features two hands holding a heart, with a crown on top. You can incorporate this tradition into your wedding by exchanging Claddagh rings with your partner during the ceremony, or by having a Claddagh ring as a wedding band.
   

3. Irish Dancing

   Irish dancing is a lively and energetic form of dance that's perfect for adding some excitement to your wedding reception. Hire a professional Irish dance troupe to perform during your reception, or even take lessons beforehand and surprise your guests with a dance performance of your own.
   

4. Celtic Knotwork

   Celtic knotwork is a beautiful and intricate form of art that features interwoven lines and patterns. You can incorporate this tradition into your wedding by incorporating Celtic knotwork into your wedding invitations, decorations, or even your wedding dress.
   

5. Traditional Irish Music

   Irish music is famous around the world for its lively and infectious melodies. Hire a traditional Irish band to perform during your ceremony or reception, or even incorporate Irish music into your DJ's playlist to give your wedding a true Irish feel.
   

6. Child of Prague

   This little statue of baby Jesus dressed in his Sunday best, holds meteorological fate of your wedding day in it’s tiny hands. If you put the Child of Prague in the garden before your wedding, you'll be blessed with glorious sunshine for your big day. Some argue that the statue must be placed under a bush, others say that it must be beheaded to guarantee a rain free wedding day. Whatever the case, this iconic Irish wedding tradition is a staple of every household and truly holds the nation in it’s tiny grip.

Irish Dancers performing at a wedding in front of the bride and groom

Incorporating unique Irish wedding traditions into your big day can add an extra layer of meaning and magic to your wedding ceremony and reception. Whether you choose to incorporate handfasting, Claddagh rings, Irish dancing, Celtic knotwork, or traditional Irish music, these traditions can help you create a wedding that's both beautiful and meaningful.