Perhaps you are returning to Ireland from abroad to celebrate your wedding. Or you are just interested in a wedding ceremony that reflects your Irish heritage. If so, there are lots of ways we can weave this into your celebration. Many of Ireland’s wedding traditions have been adopted all around the world. Some have stood the test of time and have evolved and changed over the years. They often appear with a modern twist in the context of contemporary marriages. Here are some of the favourites.

Handfasting

 The handfasting ritual is an authentic Celtic tradition that adds meaning, context and symbolism to a modern bespoke ceremony.  The tying of the coloured ribbons signifies the coming together of the couple in unity. Each coloured ribbon signifies a different meaning. It is also a ceremonial enhancement that lends itself to others being involved, often children, and it can add meaningful significance to your unique ceremony. The chosen ribbons will reflect the couple’s personalities, wishes and vows. Handfasting is a perfect way to modernise a traditional ceremony, with many couples looking back to the old ways and using inspiration from their ancestors and combining it with a modern twist.

Unity Candle

The unity candle ceremony is a very popular wedding ritual; the symbolism of light is universal. Taper candles are lit by representatives from each family to symbolise the love and allegiance that each family has for the couple. A special unity candle is lit by the couple together, creating a union of one light, made brighter by the union of their two families. This ritual celebrates every human being’s individual light that burns within them.

The unity candle ceremony symbolises the joining of two spirits, destined to be together. Their streams of light flow together, and a single brighter light, goes forth from their union.

Sand Ceremony

Adding a sand ceremony to your wedding symbolises the coming together of two people. Typically, each person has different coloured sand and takes turns pouring it into one clear vessel, forming a layered effect. Their sands mix together to demonstrate their bond of love and respect that can never be separated. Sometimes just the couple participates, sometimes the couple's children or wedding party join in with their own coloured sand, adding to the layers of colours, and expressing the harmony of the entire family. This special vessel will be a reminder of your special day but also your vows and promises to each other in the presence of your family and friends.

Salt Ceremony

During ancient times, agreements and promises were sealed by a salt covenant. Each person would take a pinch of salt from their pouch and place it in the pouch of the other. This agreement could not be broken unless an individual could retrieve their own grains of salt. A salt covenant refers to the act of combining individual grains of salt into one vessel during the wedding ceremony.