Irish Wedding Traditions

A traditional Irish wedding is an event that’s planned to not only join a man and a woman together for life, but also an occasion to celebrate. With traditions that date back hundreds of years, an Irish wedding is a festive undertaking that is meant to deliver not only good memories for the bride and groom, but also good luck.

Everything from the Irish wedding music down to Irish wedding rings are designed to honor the couple and start them out on their path of life together with all the blessings that can possibly be bestowed upon them. While Irish wedding song, Irish wedding toasts and even the Irish wedding blessing are meant to do this, some other Irish wedding traditions are quaint pieces of the past many hold dear today. Most are somewhat steeped in superstition, but that doesn’t take away from their popularity even today.

Irish weddings are known for their festive atmosphere and small gestures of superstition. For example, it’s not uncommon for a bride to carry a horseshoe at an Irish wedding to ensure good luck in the future. The shoe must be carried up, so the luck won’t run out. Another Irish wedding tradition that still holds much favor today is the carrying of a hanky by the bride. This hanky is often turned into a bonnet for a baby when one arrives.

Other Irish wedding traditions that are still cherished today include such things as cooking the groom’s goose on the night before the wedding – literally. Also, the ringing of bells to scare off evil spirits is quite common.

Irish weddings are also known for their fun receptions. From traditional Irish music for a wedding to Irish dancers, the reception is a time to kick up the heels and celebrate.

Those wishing to observe traditional Irish rituals at their own weddings will find there are many possibilities for doing so. From Irish wedding song sheet music and Irish wedding favors to Irish wedding dresses, Irish wedding guest book designs and beyond, it’s the little things that help make the occasion truly spectacular.

While the smaller customs and rituals help make an Irish wedding an Irish wedding, it’s the music that really sets the tone. Those who love to listen to Irish wedding music will find there are plenty of recordings available, and many of these even make for great Irish wedding gifts.

A traditional Irish wedding is one that is fun and festive not only for the bride and groom, but all who attend. With the luck of the Irish guiding the way, almost anyone can pull off a ceremony that includes small rituals that date back to days gone by.