5 Cool Irish Wedding Traditions You Can Adopt

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Every March 17th, it suddenly seems like everyone you know has Irish heritage somewhere in their family tree. But the rest of us can also appreciate the romantic, historical, and fun traditions that spring from this country’s rich history. Read on for some seriously steal-worthy wedding ideas!

The Claddagh Ring

This one is so romantic, it just had to make the top of our list. The Claddagh ring originated in a small fishing village just outside of Galway and is a symbol of love, loyalty, and friendship. It may be used as a promise ring, wedding band, or anniversary ring and should ideally be given as a gift.

Wear it on your right hand with the point of the heart towards you if you’re in a relationship; with the point facing out if you’re looking for love. Wear it on your left hand with the point towards you if you’re already married; with the point facing out if you’re engaged.

Want more info? http://www.theirishstore.com/blog/2014/07/16/claddagh-ring-says-about-you/

Handfasting

This Celtic tradition is super sweet and gives you something to do besides just reciting your vows. Handfasting literally ties the couple’s hands together, “tying the knot” to symbolize a steadfast commitment to each other. It can be used in a marriage ceremony or for an engagement. Historically, this agreement joined a couple in a probationary relationship; if, after a year and a day, the couple still wanted to be married forever and ever, they could call a priest to make it official.

Want more info? http://www.celticjewelry.com/content/celtic-weddings/a-brief-history-of-handfasting-in-celtic-marriage/

Irish Drinks

Especially if you’re hosting a St. Patty’s Day wedding, you can give your reception an Irish twist by incorporating traditionally “Irish” drinks such as whiskey, mead, or Guinness. There’s no definite reason why drinking became so popular on St. Patrick’s Day, but the holiday originated from a Catholic feast day honoring the patron saint of Ireland.

Want more info? https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Saint_Patrick%27s_Day

Ringing Bells

In many religious traditions, people rang bells at the wedding ceremony to drive away evil spirits. The practice of ringing a small bell arose in Ireland under the Penal Laws, which prohibited Irish Roman Catholics and Protestants from performing services except in private. Newlyweds would keep a bell in the home after the wedding, too, to help mediate arguments and remind them of their wedding vows.

You can hand out cute little bells to your guests for the send-off, which is especially convenient if confetti is not allowed at your venue.

Want more info? http://www.ireland-information.com/articles/irishweddingtraditions.htm; http://bridalguide.com/blogs/bridal-buzz/irish-wedding-traditions

Lucky Charms

The shamrock is a well-known Irish symbol of luck, initially popularized by St. Patrick to help explain the Trinity. You can use it on your invitations or feature the symbol in your general décor.

The horseshoe is another token traditionally carried by the bride on her walk down the aisle. Brides in ages past held an iron horseshoe that was later mounted on the wall of her home for good fortune; modern brides often choose porcelain horseshoes or wear silver charms.

Want more info? http://www.irishcentral.com/roots/five-old-irish-wedding-traditions-you-may-not-know-about-photos-221339081-237772511.html

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Green Wedding Inspiration

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Going green for your wedding? There’s nothing like this fresh, nature-inspired hue to invigorate your whole look. Check out our lovely Pinterest boards for some styling ideas and ways to add a tasteful splash of color into your big day!

Beautiful Bridesmaids

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Photo Credit: BHLDN

The easiest way to tie in your chosen color is with your bridesmaids’ attire. Beautiful pairings include blush or lavender with sage green (spring-summer), burgundy or gold with emerald green (fall-winter), and navy or white with mint green (summer).

Fabulous Floral Accessories

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Spring pastels, fabulous floral prints, and gorgeous flower accessories go great with green. You can deck yourself or your maids with laurel wreaths, botanical headpieces, or floral combs for a pretty touch of romance. After all, weddings are all about love!

Fairy-Tale Flowers

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If you’re getting married in a garden or woodland setting, use your natural surroundings and play off the vibrant colors around you. For a summer wedding, lavender flowers add lovely fragrance to your décor, while bold burgundy peonies look great in the summer or fall. Peach roses tie in beautifully with an autumn backdrop, while romantic red roses add a festive element to winter celebrations.

Eco-Friendly Greens

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Photo Credit: Jessica Cooper Photography for Sweet Caroline Styles

As always, the eco-friendly bouquet with succulents enhances your wedding theme with fresh greenery. You can offer potted plants as wedding favors or use them as centerpieces and save on cut flowers. Leafy garlands and aisle runners bring the outdoors inside and make your wedding feel naturally fresh.

Lucky In Love

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Get lucky! Check back for our Irish Wedding Traditions post later this month for some seriously steal-worthy ideas that will look totally gorgeous. Hint: handfasting, four leaf clovers, and Claddagh symbols definitely up the romance factor of your wedding.

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Are you going green for your wedding? Tell us how!