Irish Wedding Traditions

May your troubles be less

And your blessings be more

And nothing but happiness

Comes through your door

- an Irish Blessing

Irish people are known to be very superstitious and this is certainly reflected in some of our Irish Wedding Traditions.

The Claddagh Ring

The Claddagh's distinctive design features two hands clasping a heart, and usually surmounted by a crown. The elements of this symbol are often said to correspond to the qualities of love (the heart), friendship (the hands), and loyalty (the crown).

The way that a Claddagh ring is worn on the hand is usually intended to convey the wearer's romantic availability, or lack thereof.

When the ring is on the left hand ring finger and facing inward toward the body, it generally means that the person wearing the ring is married.

Locking the Church Door

It is thought that Irish men started to get cold feet on the big day. So to prevent the groom from making a dash out of the church the guests would lock the front door.

Lucky Irish Horseshoe

In Irish culture horseshoes are often seen as a symbol of luck and prosperity. The lucky horseshoe should always be displayed upwards!

Braided Hair

Traditionally a symbol of feminine power and luck, braided hair on your wedding day is said to bring Irish brides luck in their marriage. Try this elegant up style!

Magic Handkerchief

The magic handkerchief is a sign of fertility and the bride should carry it with her throughout the day. Once the wedding was over, it is said that the magic handkerchief was kept safely until the first born child arrived. It was then used as part of the christening attire.

Wedding Bells

Not quite the same as the tolling church bells! The bells were used to ward off malicious spirits. After the wedding it is kept in the house to remind married couples of their vows.

St. Patrick's Day

A wedding that takes place on St. Patrick's Day is said to give couples lifelong happiness.

Something Blue

Traditionally the colour blue has been associated with purity, so Irish brides normally have something blue with them on their wedding day. Something old, something new, something borrowed, something blue!

Wedding Cake

The traditional Irish wedding cake is a hearty fruitcake made with honey and soaked in an Irish Whiskey, then frosted with sweet icing.

POWERSCOURT HOUSE WEDDINGS

www.powerscourt.ie/weddings

hospitality@powerscourt.net

01 204 6000