Wedding traditions about weddings in Ireland date back for hundreds of years, and some of these traditions remain in existence today. It may seem outdated and farfetched, yet the truth is, these beliefs are still something we hold close to our hearts to keep us grounded and rooted in our heritage. For generations, these Irish wedding practices are rooted in nature through our ancestors and traced through the ages.
Traditional Irish wedding customs are celebrated worldwide by modern-day couples seeking to do so as a tribute or to stay connected to their Irish heritage.
Let's go through some Irish wedding traditions that still staple Celtic and Irish practices.
The Make Up Bell
Tradition dictates that, on the wedding day or when the couple gets engaged, an individual gives the newlyweds a bell they call a "make-up bell." Bell ringing is believed to keep the evil spirits away while at the same time helping couples settle down and get back to harmonious relations.
The echo and sound of the bell served as a reminder for couples, just like a church bell. When it is time to end a minor dispute, the bell is rung. Let partners alternate in striking the bell because it isn't healthy to have only one person do so. The sound may serve as a warning that both parties should resolve things.
Tying The Knot
Suppose you know anything about ancient Celtic marriage rituals. In that case, you might be interested to know that the phrase and practice of "Tying the Knot" originally came with the notion of handfasting. A long-standing Celtic tradition depicts the joining of two people by wrapping two sets of garlands around their arms in the shape of an X. This mirrors the swapping of rings today. In the wedding party's colors, a bridal cord wraps around the couple's hands to symbolize their unity.
The Irish Horseshoe
In Ireland, brides carried a horseshoe turned upside down in hopes that good luck would follow. The groomsman would then hang the horseshoe, upside down, in the new home for good luck. The Irish horseshoe, or the practice of doing so within their wedding, welcomes everyone who enters a house in Ireland.
The "Special" Bouquet
A single shamrock is hidden in the couple's wedding bouquet, hoping their marriage will be lucky. The shamrock also represents the luck of the Irish people.
These Irish wedding practices are still done in celebrations today. Making sure that the union is shared depicts the same values passed down by our ancestors. Staying connected to our heritage is one thing we want to ensure and assure as we embark on the journey as a couple. The belief and faith that unify the relationship further strengthen the bond between individuals.
Other wedding traditions may not be mentioned here, but it does not mean that they are less critical. As long as we firmly believe in the same values, we share the same promise.
Wear pieces that showcase and embody these values, beliefs, and heritage that keep us all connected. Visit our shop today at Celtic Knot Jewelry & Co.
If you have further questions, comments, and concerns, feel free to leave a comment down below. We would love to hear and learn from you.
