Choosing the perfect destination for your wedding day is an important decision; however, if you’re seeking a truly enchanting and memorable experience, look no further than the Emerald Isle. Ireland, with its breathtaking landscapes, rich history, and vibrant culture, offers a dream setting for couples seeking a destination wedding steeped in romance and charm. Here’s what you need to know.
So why Ireland? While destination weddings are typically held in more tropical climates, if you want an elegant, magical feel to your wedding, and hate muggy hot weather, Ireland could be your perfect wedding destination. Plus, when you plan a wedding in Ireland, you and your guests will enjoy…
The Irish countryside is a painter’s dream, with its rolling green hills, rugged coastlines, and picturesque lakes. Imagine saying “I do” against the backdrop of the dramatic Cliffs of Moher, feeling the spray of the Atlantic Ocean on your face. Ireland is, for sure, one of the best places to have an outdoor wedding. These landscapes provide an awe-inspiring setting that will leave you and your guests in awe no matter the time of year.
The Irish people are renowned for their warm and welcoming nature, ensuring you and your guests will be embraced with open arms. From the moment you arrive, you’ll be enchanted by the genuine friendliness, lively banter, and infectious laughter ingrained in Irish culture. Your wedding celebration in Ireland will be filled with heartfelt hospitality and genuine joy, making it an experience to treasure forever.
Ireland is a land deeply rooted in history, folklore, and traditions. From traditional music and dance performances to Celtic rituals and blessings, infuse your ceremony and reception with the vibrant spirit of Ireland. You could also include a live Irish band to get everyone on the dance floor, and don’t forget to raise a glass of Guinness or Irish whiskey to toast your new journey together!
Ireland’s culinary scene focuses on fresh, locally sourced ingredients and innovative flavors. Treat your guests to a sumptuous feast showcasing traditional Irish dishes with a modern twist. You’ll see foods like succulent Irish lamb, mouthwatering seafood, and the famous Irish stew. Accompany your meal with a selection of Irish craft beers or exquisite Irish whiskey to further savor the flavors of the country.
With Ireland having no shortage of beautiful places to say, “I do,” things can get overwhelming when picking out your perfect wedding venue. Here are some of our favorite places in Ireland to consider for your big day.
Located in the southwest of Ireland, County Kerry is known for its breathtaking landscapes and picturesque beauty. The Ring of Kerry, with its stunning coastal views, is a popular choice for couples seeking a romantic wedding backdrop. Killarney National Park, Dingle Peninsula, and the Gap of Dunloe are other scenic spots in the region that provide a truly magical setting for your wedding. One of the most unique wedding venues in this area is The Heights Hotel, family-owned and serving new couples for over 40 years.
County Clare is home to one of Ireland’s most iconic natural wonders, the Cliffs of Moher. These towering cliffs, overlooking the Atlantic Ocean, offer a dramatic and unforgettable backdrop for your wedding ceremony. The nearby Burren, with its unique limestone landscape, is another remarkable location for intimate weddings that is both mystical and enchanting.
As the capital city of Ireland, Dublin offers a vibrant and cosmopolitan atmosphere for your wedding celebrations. The city is rich in history and culture, with many venue options, including elegant hotels, historic buildings, and modern event spaces. Dublin’s charming streets, beautiful parks, and renowned landmarks like Trinity College and St. Patrick’s Cathedral provide fantastic photo opportunities for your special day.
County Galway, located on the western coast of Ireland, boasts rugged coastlines, picturesque villages, and a vibrant culture. The city of Galway is known for its lively atmosphere, traditional Irish music, and colorful festivals. Connemara, with its wild and untamed landscapes, offers a sense of raw beauty and romance, while the Aran Islands provide a unique and secluded destination for an intimate wedding ceremony.
If you’re considering Northern Ireland, County Antrim is a captivating choice. The Giant’s Causeway, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, features unique hexagonal basalt columns and offers a breathtaking setting for a wedding ceremony. The Dark Hedges, an enchanting avenue of intertwined beech trees, has gained fame as a filming location for “The Game of Thrones” series and provides a magical and whimsical atmosphere for a fairytale wedding.
Of course, you can’t plan an Irish wedding and not consider holding your nuptials in a ye olde castle. Here are a few venues to consider.
As if it were ripped out of a fairy tale, Belle Isle Castle & Estate in Fermanagh is one of the best spots to get married. Not only is the scenery stunning, but it can sleep up to 93 guests, provides some of the best wedding vendors, and has a bridal suite with a lake view. This is a venue location no one will forget and is one of the best castle wedding wedding venues in Ireland!
If “magical” is a word you’d want to use to describe your wedding, then Ashford Castle Hotel & Country Estate is the wedding venue for you. It offers 83 bedrooms, a chance to have an unforgettable breakfast in the George V Dining Room, your choice of churches dating back to the early 1200s for photos or the ceremony, and romantic pre-wedding experiences in the underground wine cellar. The historic castle also provides many on-site activities like golf, falconry, fishing, spa treatments, and river cruising.
While it is true that you can plan a wedding on almost any budget, the average cost of a wedding in Ireland is roughly €36,000, which is around $40,000 in USD. That price includes the venue, dress, rings, and honeymoon but does not include travel fees. However, this is just an average. Your big day could cost more or less depending on how far you travel and the time of year.
If you are getting married in Ireland (whether you are an Irish citizen or a foreigner), you must notify the Registrar of your intention to marry at least three months before your wedding day and fill out a marriage registration form. You also have to be at least 18 years of age and must not be married already in order to have a legal wedding in Ireland.
If money is a concern, one of the best ways to save is to book your wedding out of season. January to April and October and November are off-peak months in Ireland, so traveling for you and your wedding guests will be more budget-friendly.
Book your venue at least 18–24 months before your wedding day for the best chance at securing your desired wedding dates.
Although destination weddings can be pricey, if it’s within your budget, we highly recommend taking a flight over and getting hitched at one of the perfect wedding venue options on the great Emerald Isle.
Need more destination wedding ideas? The Groom Club offers advice and tips on everything you need to know to keep your dream wedding in-budget and as relaxing as possible. Read more with our guides to Planning The Ultimate Destination Wedding Elopement and How to Plan a Destination Wedding.
