Alright Ireland, what’s the craic?
A wedding in Ireland is truly a once-in-a-lifetime experience. It’s the home of incredible live music, fantastic pubs, and some of the friendliest people you’ll ever meet. Whether you’re a local or simply a lover, you’ll always be welcomed with a smile. Add amidst the stunning scenery, from the rolling green hills to the Giant’s Causeway, and a rich culture full of poetry, folklore, and tradition, it’s easy to see why so many couples choose to say "I do" here.
What’s more, Ireland loves love! In 2015, 62% of constituents voted to legalise gay marriage, making Ireland the first country in the world to approve same-sex marriage through popular vote. It’s a reflection of the country’s open-hearted, inclusive nature and its commitment to celebrating love in all its forms. So, whether you're planning an intimate ceremony or a grand celebration, there’s room for everyone in beautiful Ireland.
Last but by no means least—the price! Irish weddings come in at around £18,300 (approximately €21,600) on average, which is a solid £2,500 (approximately €2,900) less than the UK average of £20,822 (approximately €24,000). Every cent counts when you’re planning a wedding, and these savings could be spent on those special touches to make your day truly memorable. Dreaming of custom cocktails? Go for it. String quartet for evening entertainment? No worries. Treat yourself with the extra room in your budget.
Micro or intimate weddings have become extremely popular in Ireland. The chance to spend the day with your nearest and dearest has a special appeal that many couples just can’t resist. Plus, a smaller guest list generally means a smaller food, drinks, and table decor bill, as well as the opportunity to book the smaller, niche venues.
Traditional Irish wedding themes are also making a strong comeback in Ireland. Think vintage lace dresses, Claddagh rings, Celtic symbols, and traditional Irish folk tunes. The celebration often includes a classic Irish wedding toast (Sláinte!), a ceilidh dance for guests to join in with and, of course, a bountiful spread of local Irish food like hearty stews and seafood, plus indulgent desserts like Irish whiskey cake.
You’re spoilt for choice with the range of beautiful wedding venues Ireland has to offer. Whether you’re hoping for a Cinderella story, a more modern fairytale, or something quirky and unique, there’s something for every style.
Go all out with Fota Island Resort in Cork. This breathtaking, 5-star wedding venue is set in the heart of a 780-acre estate, and is perfect for couples who want to feel like royalty on their big day. Surrounded by lush gardens, towering trees, and stunning views, it’s an ideal location for both indoor and outdoor ceremonies. Understandably, the price tag is a bit higher, with prices starting at €135 per head. But, for the fairytale wedding of your dreams, it’s worth every penny.
But, don’t think a venue has to cost the moon to be beautiful. Spots like Thomas Prior Hall - Clayton Hotel Ballsbridge or Riverside Park Hotel are absolutely stunning and cost €2,500 for venue hire or €49 per head, respectively. These more affordable options have all the charm and elegance you could ask for, without the hefty price tag.
If you’re looking for something a little more quirky, consider getting married in a genuine castle. Cabra Castle Hotel in Kingscourt has five-tiered golden candelabras, 100 acres of grounds, beautiful surroundings, and a ballroom fit for royalty, making it perfect for any prince or princess dreams. With prices starting at around €109 per head, it’s surprisingly affordable for couples who want a regal reception without breaking the bank.
Finally, as the trailblazers of LGBTQ+ weddings, Ireland has a ton of wedding venues that are LGBTQ+ friendly. Venues like The Grayson, Horetown House, Tinakilly Country House Hotel, or The Abbey in Athy are all fantastic choices for couples looking for a welcoming atmosphere. These venues not only offer stunning settings but are truly inclusive of all couples, regardless of sexual orientation or gender identity. Everyone deserves to feel seen, celebrated, and embraced, and Ireland is the place for that.
With regards to cost, there’s something to fit every budget in Ireland. You can find wedding venues ranging from €5,000 all the way up to €25,000 (or even higher if you're going all-out!). Some venues prefer to charge per head, and that can range anywhere from €75 to €210 per guest. Of course, the final cost will depend on how many guests you have and what extras you choose, and some places don’t list prices upfront, so you’ll need to reach out to get the details.
The average lead time for a wedding in Ireland will differ based on the location, season, and complexity of the wedding. A small registry office ceremony in Dublin followed by a celebratory meal will likely only need a few months of planning, especially if you’re flexible with dates. However, for a larger, more elaborate celebration, particularly one at a sought-after venue, it’s best to book at least 12 to 18 months in advance. This is especially true for popular wedding seasons like summer (June-August) or around major holidays like Christmas and St. Patrick's Day.
If you’re eyeing a venue in a busy city like Dublin, Cork, or Galway, you may want to book even earlier to secure your ideal date. Rural or less high-demand locations might have more availability, but it’s still a good idea to book early to avoid disappointment.
Ireland can be a little rainy. That’s the long and the short of it. But, there’s no harm in a little drizzle, and it can actually be a sign of good luck on your special day. Water makes ‘the knot’ tighter, as they say! So, if the weather’s a little unpredictable, don’t stress! Just embrace it—whether it’s sunshine or showers, it’ll add a bit of magic to your day. Just be sure to have a backup if you’re dreaming of an outdoor wedding.
Spring (March-May) in Ireland brings relatively cool but mild temperatures, with lows of around 4°C and highs of 15°C, so it's still pretty crisp, but there’s definitely potential for an outdoor wedding. Look out for venues that offer both indoor and outdoor spaces, just in case the weather turns. Spots like Loughcrew Estate & Gardens or Belleek Castle in Ballina are perfect for this time of year, offering stunning gardens for a beautiful outdoor ceremony, along with indoor options if the rain decides to make an appearance.
Summer (June-August) in Ireland means you’re looking at lows around 14°C and highs up to 18°C, so the weather’s warming up nicely without being too hot. The evenings are long and golden hour is an absolute dream for wedding photos—think soft, glowing light and a real fairytale feel, which makes an outdoor reception a must. Venues like Kilshane House or Osprey Hotel are brilliant picks for summer weddings, with gorgeous gardens, lush grounds, and plenty of outdoor space to make the most of those sunny Irish days.
Autumn (September-November) brings lows of 6°C and highs of 13°C. It’s cool without being overly crisp or frosty, meaning an outdoor ceremony could be possible so long as guests are dressed appropriately. Consider having some cosy extras on hand, like blankets or warm welcome drinks, to keep everyone comfy. Plus, the autumn colours are absolutely stunning, so you’ll have a beautiful backdrop for an outdoor photoshoot if that’s your vibe.
Winter (December-February) in Ireland is undoubtedly the chilliest of the wedding seasons. While coastal areas typically see lows of 6°C and highs of 10°C, inland or northern regions can dip below freezing, so you’ll definitely want to keep things indoors (and cosy!). But, winter weddings can still be popular, and are often cheaper too, which is a big win if you’re trying to stretch your budget a little further. See if your favourite venue offers a winter package—you might be able to snag a seriously good deal.
Ireland’s size means that no two areas are alike. Understandably, you may find it easier to get around the towns and cities than you will in the more rural spots. But, where there’s a will there’s a way, and Ireland’s charm often lies off the beaten path anyway!
Most major wedding venues are well connected by road, and even if you’re tucked away in the countryside, you’re usually never more than a short drive from a town or city. It’s a good idea to arrange group transport like minibuses or shuttle services for your guests, especially if your venue is remote. For those who aren’t on Google or Apple Maps, tools like what3words can be used to pinpoint exact locations and make sure no one gets lost on the way.
Guests based in Ireland may also be able to use public transport like trains and buses to get around. However, if your wedding is in a more rural spot, hiring a car might be the easiest option. International guests may want to fly or get ferries into Ireland to reduce the need for extensive cross-country travel. Major cities like Dublin and Shannon are great entry points, with plenty of connections to the rest of the country.
You may also want to consider a venue with accommodation booked in. While there are tons of Airbnbs, hotels, and guesthouses around, which offer guests a place to rest their heads, on-site is much easier for everyone and can add a touch of convenience and luxury to your big day. Plus, it eliminates the stress of coordinating travel after the celebration winds down. Spots like Lawlor’s Of Ness or Castle Dargan Estate are beautiful hotels that double as wedding venues, making them the perfect choice if you're looking for a seamless experience.
