Our Essential Wedding Checklist for an Unforgettable Wedding in Ireland
Introduction:
Planning a wedding can be both exciting and overwhelming. With its picturesque landscapes, rich culture, and warm hospitality, Ireland offers a magical backdrop for tying the knot. To ensure your special day goes off without a hitch, it's crucial to have a comprehensive wedding checklist. In this article, we will guide you through the essential tasks and preparations you need to consider when planning weddings in Ireland. Additionally, we'll provide links to valuable Irish blog posts that offer further insights and tips.
Anna & Paul’s Wedding
Determine the Date and Venue:
Selecting the perfect date and venue are crucial early steps. Consider the season, weather, and the ambiance you desire. Ireland offers a plethora of options, from historic castles and luxurious manor houses to romantic gardens and rustic barns. Secure your preferred venue well in advance to avoid disappointment. See below for links to some of the most popular venues in Leinster:
Powerscourt House and Gardens - https://powerscourthotel.com/weddings/
Carton House - https://www.cartonhouse.com/weddings
Tankardstown House - https://www.tankardstown.ie/weddings
The K Club - https://www.kclub.ie/weddings/
Rathsallagh House - https://www.rathsallagh.com/weddings
Kilkea Castle - https://www.kilkeacastle.ie/weddings
Ballymagarvey Village - https://www.ballymagarvey.ie/weddings
Clonabreany House - https://www.clonabreanyhouse.ie/weddings
Bellinter House - https://www.bellinterhouse.com/weddings
Mount Druid - https://www.mounthdruid.ie/weddings
Legal Requirements:
Ensure you meet all the legal requirements for getting married in Ireland. This includes notifying the registrar, providing the necessary documents, and completing any necessary paperwork. Familiarize yourself with the legalities to ensure a smooth and stress-free process.
Budgeting:
Establish a realistic budget for your wedding. Determine your priorities and allocate funds accordingly. From venue costs and catering to entertainment and floral arrangements, consider all aspects and create a comprehensive budget plan. This will help you stay on track and make informed decisions throughout the planning process.
Mary Therese & Lee at The Johstown Estate
Guest List and Invitations:
Compile a guest list with your partner, including family, friends, and loved ones. Send out save-the-date cards and wedding invitations well in advance to allow guests time to plan and make arrangements. Consider incorporating elements of Irish culture into your invitations, such as Celtic motifs or Gaelic phrases. See below for a list of great Invitation and Card suppliers:
Appleberry Press (www.appleberrypress.com): Appleberry Press specializes in luxury wedding invitations and stationery, offering a range of unique and elegant designs.
Dusty Boy Designs (www.dustyboydesigns.ie): Dusty Boy Designs creates beautiful and contemporary wedding invitations, often featuring hand-drawn illustrations and typography.
Lucy Says I Do (www.lucysaysido.com): Lucy Says I Do offers bespoke and personalized wedding stationery, including invitations, save the dates, and more.
Pear Paper Co. (www.pearpaperco.com): Pear Paper Co. creates custom wedding invitations and stationery, known for their stylish and modern designs.
Farrell & Chase (www.farrellandchase.com): Farrell & Chase is a luxury wedding stationery studio, offering a range of beautiful designs and personalized options.
Ivy Cottage Cards (www.ivycottagecards.com): Ivy Cottage Cards provides handmade wedding invitations and stationery, offering a variety of styles to suit different themes and preferences.
Martin & Rebecca’s Wedding at The Glenroyal Hotel
Wedding Attire and Styling:
Begin the search for your dream wedding dress or suit. Explore boutiques, designers, and rental options to find the perfect attire that suits your style and budget. Don't forget to consider the weather and the location of your wedding when choosing your outfits. Additionally, plan hairstyles, makeup, and accessories to complete your wedding day look. See below for a list of some amazing suppliers in this field:
The White Room - www.thewhiteroom.ie
Myrtle Ivory - www.myrtleivory.com
Bella Bleu Bridal - www.bellableu.ie
Sharon Hoey - www.sharonhoey.com
Little White Dress - www.lwdbridal.ie
The Bridal Outlet - www.thebridaloutlet.ie
Alice May Bridal - www.alicemay.ie
The Attic Bridalwear Boutique - www.theatticbridalwearboutique.com
Frilly Frocks - www.frillyfrocks.ie
Smart Brides - www.smartbrides.ie
Catering and Menu Selection:
Ireland is renowned for its exceptional cuisine. Collaborate with a reputable caterer to create a menu that showcases local flavors and delights your guests. From traditional Irish dishes to contemporary options, there's something to suit every taste. Don't forget to consider dietary restrictions and preferences when finalizing your menu.
Entertainment and Music:
Enhance the ambiance of your wedding with the perfect entertainment and music. From live bands and solo artists to traditional Irish music or DJs, Ireland offers a wealth of talent to suit your preferences. Ensure you book entertainment early to secure your desired performers and discuss any specific requests or themes you have in mind. See beloe for a list of amazing Musicians and Bands:
The Bentley Boys - www.bentleyboysband.ie
The Good Hustle - www.thegoodhustle.com
The Conor McKeon Band - www.conormckeon.ie
The Ratzingers - www.theratzingers.com
The Beat Boutique - www.thebeatboutique.ie
The Swing Cats - www.swingcats.ie
The Firm - www.thefirmband.ie
The Mixtape - www.themixtape.ie
The LOLs Band - www.thelolsband.ie
The B Sharps - www.thebsharps.ie
Décor and Floral Arrangements:
Transform your venue into a fairy tale setting with carefully chosen décor and stunning floral arrangements. Work with a professional wedding stylist or florist to bring your vision to life. Incorporate elements of Irish culture, such as Celtic designs, traditional symbols, or locally sourced blooms, to add an authentic touch to your celebrations. See below for a list of great suppliers in this field to help you on your way:
The French Touch - www.thefrenchtouch.ie
The Garden - www.thegarden.ie
Appassionata Flowers - www.appassionata.ie
Frog Prince Weddings & Events - www.frogprince.ie
The Flower Box - www.flowerbox.ie
Bloomsday Flowers - www.bloomsdayflowers.ie
Bella Botanica - www.bellabotanica.ie
The Blue Rose - www.thebluerose.ie
The Garden Powerscourt - www.thegardenpowerscourt.ie
The Wedding Festival - www.theweddingfestival.ie
Photography and Videography:
Capture the cherished moments of your special day by hiring a professional wedding photographer and videographer. Research local photographers who specialize in wedding photography and review their portfolios to ensure their style aligns with your preferences. Discuss your desired shots and locations to create a lasting memory of your Irish wedding. Pleasse take a look at my packages!
Wedding Transportation:
Consider how you and your guests will travel to and from the wedding venue. Whether you opt for classic cars, horse-drawn carriages, or traditional Irish transportation like jaunting cars, plan transportation logistics in advance to ensure a seamless experience for everyone involved. See below for a great list of Car and Transport suppliers:
AKP Chauffeur Drive Wedding Cars - www.weddingcarsireland.ie
Courtyard Classic Cars - www.courtyardclassiccars.com
Absolute Limos - www.absolutelimos.ie
Wedding Cars Ireland - www.weddingcarsireland.ie
Retroventures - www.retroventuresireland.com
Vintage Motors - www.vintagemotors.ie
KPCD Limos - www.kpcdlimos.ie
Cupid Carriages - www.cupidcarriages.ie
Silver Service Limousines - www.silverservicelimos.ie
Premier Chauffeur Drive - www.premierchauffeurdrive.ie