How it unfolds
Irish weddings are known for their length: the church ceremony, the drinks reception, a long meal, a band, and frequently an afters that brings a wider circle. Older customs survive in miniature — the Claddagh ring worn to signal commitment, the magic hanky that becomes a christening bonnet, and a horseshoe carried for luck.
Irish weddings are long: the reception commonly runs from afternoon into the small hours, and a second day — the afters, with a lighter gathering and often a barbecue — is common enough that guests plan for it. Two small traditions recur: the Claddagh ring, worn with the heart turned inwards once married, and the magic hanky, a linen handkerchief carried by the bride that is later sewn into a christening bonnet.
Key points
| Claddagh ring | Hands, heart and crown; worn turned inward once committed |
|---|---|
| Magic hanky | Carried by the bride, later sewn into a christening bonnet |
| Horseshoe | Carried or attached to the bouquet, points upward |
| The afters | Later, wider gathering after the meal |
| The band | Live music expected; a session often follows |
| Handfasting | Revived in humanist and outdoor ceremonies |
| Length | Frequently continues into a second day |
In practice
- Budget for the afters: the guest list widens considerably after the meal.
- Live music is more or less expected; a disco alone reads as thin.
- Solemnisers must be on the official register — check before booking anyone.
- Three months' notice to the registrar is required before any marriage.
What it costs
An Irish wedding commonly costs between €25,000 and €35,000, with venue and catering dominating. The state civil ceremony fee is modest; the expense is the reception, and Dublin prices run well above the national average.
Recent changes
Humanist and secular solemnisers can now perform legally binding marriages in Ireland, and a growing share of couples choose them over a church; venues outside hotels have also been approved more widely.
Who to ask
- Families and elders, for the customary steps.
- Registry office, for the civil marriage.
- Place of worship or celebrant, for the ceremony.
- Local caterers and venues.
Worth knowing before you take part
Customary and religious ceremonies carry enormous social weight, but only the civil registration produces legal effects — inheritance, parentage and recognition abroad all follow from it.
Frequently asked questions
What is the second day of an Irish wedding?
An informal gathering the day after, usually for close family and guests who stayed over, with food and music and none of the formality. It is not a separate event you need an invitation to; if you are staying at the hotel, you are expected.
Which way round do you wear a Claddagh ring?
Heart pointing outwards on the right hand if you are unattached, inwards on the right if you are in a relationship, and on the left hand with the heart turned inwards once married. It is taken seriously enough that people notice.
Official sources and links
- Citizens Information — official plain-language guide to rights and entitlements
- Irish Statute Book — legislation as enacted