A wedding should be reflective of one’s culture, faith and belief. And with the blessings of the parents and the attendance of friends, weddings are intended to bring good graces to the couples as well. Ireland is a unique country where tradition and customs can be felt in almost any occasion. While they adapt some cultural infusions as well from other countries, Ireland has unique and colorful traditions that make them distinct. Personal celebrations such as weddings are no exceptions, and there are many customs as well that should be practiced by Irish couples.

The Claddagh Ring – This is the bride’s engagement ring and wedding ring and it represents the virtues of love and honor for the couple. This can also be worn by a single woman but the ring should be worn on the right ring finger to symbolize such. It also symbolizes the friendship between the couple and the understanding that their relationship will grow if it is based on both friendship and love. This is perhaps one of the most notable and unique traditions in Irish weddings.

Celtic music – This type of music is still very popular and can be played whether by DJs or the notable bagpipes of Irishmen. Because the history of Ireland is rich in Celtic influences, this type of entertainment during weddings should not be omitted.

A blue wedding gown – Because the tradition of Ireland believes that blue symbolizes purity, it is up to the bride to wear whether a white wedding gown or a blue gown.

English lavender – This flower is revered in Ireland and is usually incorporated in the bride’s bouquet to wish for a joyous married life.

Horseshoe – This is a traditional gift given to newlyweds and the couple must display it at their home. This gift is an invitation for blessing to come in to their home. Horseshoes are also commonly used as a symbol of good luck and fortune.

Wedding cake – A traditional wedding cake is one that is decorated with shamrocks and filled with Irish cream, a notable recipe perfected by Irish people.

Mead – This liquor is being offered at the celebration and the drink is said to have properties that can improve the fertility of the couple and create a big, happy family in the future.

Honeymoon – Couples usually go on a month long vacation to try to get the wife pregnant and the presence of mead is important in this period as well. This four week vacation lasts as such to make sure that when they both leave after one month, the bride is indeed already pregnant and no one can already separate them from each other.

Weddings are important social celebrations in Ireland and months of preparation are required for the event to go smoothly. It is not hard for Irish couples to stick to their traditions because their customs are both meaningful and fun as well. These traditions have been practiced for hundreds of years and their appeal of course will never fade.

Author Bio: Criss White is a professional article writer for bridal, wedding, and various other topics. To view some Irish wedding favors or to get more wedding favors, visit Bridal and Wedding Favors. Note: This article may be reprinted in your ezine, blog, or website as long as the credits remain intact and hyperlinks remain active.

Category: Relationships
Keywords: Irish wedding, wedding in Ireland, traditions in Irish wedding, weddings, ireland