As an Irish-American, finding ways to honor your roots and incorporate traditions can be hard work, but it’s certainly not impossible. We’ve rounded up a few Celtic wedding customs from times gone by that you should consider incorporating into your wedding celebrations…
Handfasting
Traditionally, Celtic handfasting was designed to publically declare your intention to marry one another, in a similar manner to a modern-day engagement party. A Celtic druid would then declare that the two people were engaged, and the engagement would last for a year. If their relationship worked out, they’d marry, and if not, they’d dissolve their handfast and look to find another partner. In modern weddings, however, handfasting is used before or during vows, allowing you to quite literally “tie the knot” to your partner in front of your loved ones.
Speeches
Though speeches are important during any wedding, they’re a staple of every Irish wedding. Ask the “VIPs” of your wedding to prepare a speech before the big day – everyone from the best man to your head bridesmaid, and of course closest friends, family and in-laws. Once you’re married, your wedding celebrations should involve the folk that really matter; giving each of them the time to shine and share their memories of the happy couple will make the day all the more special – and inject some humor and lightheartedness into the occasion, too!
Grushie
Another custom that was commonly conducted in countries where the Celts lived was the Celtic grushie, where the groom threw a handful of coins into the crowd after the wedding ceremony. In modern times, that tradition has been passed on to the bride, who will throw her bouquet to see who may be the next lucky bride, but the grushie is still often conducted bo someone related to the groom, whether that’s a father, brother, or the Best Man. The idea behind the tradition is to bring some luck to the newlyweds – just be careful where you aim!
Oathing stone
Another Celtic tradition is the oathing stone, where the bride and groom hold a stone in their hands when reciting their vows. The idea behind the tradition is to “set in stone” their vows and show that they’re everlasting. In modern weddings where the oathing stone is still used, couples pass the stone to the wedding guests who can make a wish and send good intentions and luck to the couple before they take their vows, making it even more important.
Rings
Finally, a quick word on wedding rings. The most important token of love associated with an Irish wedding is the ring, and Claddagh rings are traditional wedding rings of choice in Ireland. The romantic design features a trinity, including a heart that represents love, a pair of hands which represent friendship, and a crown that represents loyalty. Though modern wedding rings are still an option for many Irish-American couples, choosing a ring design that is steeped in Irish history allows you to make the ultimate relationship promise – and honor your roots. Indeed, even Walt Disney’s statue at Disney World sports a Claddagh ring!
Although not all of these traditions will fit with your wedding theme and itinerary, it is easy to include one or two in the celebrations. Whatever you’ve got planned, we wish you a joyous day with your friends and family, and a lifetime of love and happiness with your groom.
