Plan a Destination Wedding in Ireland: Tips for Couples Abroad
Steps to Plan Your Wedding: Dates, Suppliers, and Coordination
All photos by: Stefano Ferrier
Table of Contents:
All photos by: Stefano Ferrier
QUICK ESSENTIALS
Choose Dates Mindfully
When considering how to plan a destination wedding in Ireland, it’s essential to account for Irish holidays and bank holidays.
Popular dates like St. Patrick’s Day (March 17) or Easter can significantly impact venue availability and costs.
Don’t forget Ireland’s bank holidays: the first Mondays of May, June, and August, as well as the last Monday of October.
Handle Legalities Early
Apply for your marriage license at least three months before the big day and schedule a meeting with a registrar five days prior.
Non-Irish partners may need additional documents, such as an apostille or a freedom-to-marry certificate.
Learn more about Ireland’s marriage requirements from the HSE.
Know Religious Requirements
For Catholic ceremonies, complete a pre-marriage course and confirm your eligibility with your officiant.
Other religions may have unique requirements, so consult your officiant early.
Budget for Currency Exchange
Avoid surprises by planning for currency exchange fees and potential fluctuations.
Set your budget in euros and monitor rates to stay on track.
Set Up a Video Call Account
Use Zoom, Google Meet, or similar platforms to connect with vendors abroad.
It saves time, avoids call charges, and ensures clear communication.
All photos by: Stefano Ferrier
MANAGING SUPPLIERS
Ireland is home to enchanting castles, country manors, and luxurious hotels that provide a dreamlike backdrop for your wedding.
When choosing your venue, consider whether you’ll have a religious or humanist ceremony. If opting for a church, remember that Ireland’s Catholic churches often have specific requirements for weddings.
Account for Time Differences
Vendors in Ireland work within European business hours.
Be prepared for delayed replies if you’re in a different time zone, and avoid contacting them at night.
Vendors Work Weekends
Since suppliers are busiest Friday through Sunday, schedule your inquiries and meetings earlier in the week for a quicker response.
Hire a Wedding Planner
A planner with local expertise can help navigate Irish venues, suppliers, and logistics, making your wedding planning stress-free.
Consider a Stylist for Your Vision
A wedding stylist ensures your decor and setup align with your expectations, especially if you’re planning remotely.
Wedding Photography, Your Way
I’m Stefano, a Premier Wedding Photographer working throughout Ireland.
With over a decade of experience, I specialize in creating timeless wedding photography that reflects the beauty and uniqueness of each couple’s journey.
Guided by a deep commitment to artistic excellence, my approach blends creative photojournalism with candid moments, ensuring every image is a perfect balance of authenticity and elegance.
Reach out today to see how I can capture every unforgettable detail.
All photos by: Stefano Ferrier
DELEGATING & DELEGATION
Find Trusted Helpers for Venue Visits
Enlist a trusted friend or family member to visit venues.
If their style doesn’t match yours, select someone with similar tastes.
Trust the Right Suppliers
Choose vendors whose portfolios resonate with your vision.
Trust their expertise and past work to ease your concerns.
ARRIVING & PREPARING FOR YOUR WEDDING
Arrive a Week Early
Spend time adjusting to Ireland, finalizing details, and reuniting with family and friends before your big day.
Pack Light
Order decor items from Irish vendors or coordinate deliveries to your venue to avoid overpacking.
Buy Your Dress Locally
Purchase and fit your dress at home, using your travel date as the final fitting deadline.
Transport Your Dress with Care
When flying, request onboard wardrobe storage for your dress.
Arrange for steaming upon arrival to ensure it looks perfect.
Comments