Ways to infuse Your Wedding Celebration with celtic charm

Whether you are acknowledging your family heritage or simply appreciate the rich traditions, an Irish Themed wedding presents a wealth of possibilities.

Time worn folklore has created many recognizable Irish symbols such as shamrocks, harps, claddaughs, trinity knots, Celtic crosses, leprechauns, fairy dust and gold coins. These symbols can be featured in your invitations, wedding rings, decorations and favors. With the addition of Irish elements in your attire, toasts, music and food selection, this theme choice will serve to weave together your signature “perfect day”.

Although this list of suggestions is not necessarily traditional, here are just a few ideas that will help to develop a fun Irish Themed Wedding Day:

Select one or two Irish symbols and use these throughout your stationery. This includes the invitations, place cards, wedding bulletins, table menus and gift tags. Consider adding green satin ribbon or a four-leaf clover charm for a little extra Irish flourish.

Traditional Irish linen and lace are world renowned. Look for a dress or veil that features this beautiful ornamentation. If this is simply not your style, tuck a lace-trimmed handkerchief into the back of your bouquet just in case the tears begin to flow. Have it personalized with a traditional Irish Wish such as “May this day be touched, by a bit of Irish Luck!”

Accent your Bridal Party’s fashions and flowers with emerald green or jewelry that makes use of an Irish symbol such as the Trinity Knot or Shamrock.

Select wedding accessories that include an Irish or Celtic symbol. Your ring pillow, Unity Candle Set, Guest Book, Cake Serving Set, Toasting Set and even your Bridal Garter can all have a touch of “Irish”.

Design decorations that include flowers that are native to Ireland such as Bells of Ireland, daisies, primroses, hydrangeas, ivy and violets. Use these to decorate pews or chairs at the ceremony, tables at the reception and even you’re your “get-away vehicle” (if it is practical).

Make sure your guest favor has an Irish theme. Consider decorated cookies in the shape of shamrocks, leprechaun hats or lucky horseshoes. Present them beautifully wrapped in clear cellophane and tied with personalized ribbon with a message such as “ ‘Tis Great to be Irish!” or “Our Hearts Joined Forever in Love”. Alternatively, package several foil wrapped chocolate coins in a green sheer pouch and attach a tag that reads “May you have all the happiness and luck that life can hold~ And at the end of your rainbows, may you find a pot of gold.”

Adorn your wedding cake with a Celtic themed figurine. Select a Trinity Knot style or the very popular Claddaugh. If it is applicable, a Bride or Groom with characteristically red hair may be the perfect crowning glory.

Consult with your D.J or Band regarding popular Celtic Music. Develop a suitable “play list” of tunes for your reception.

Be sure to incorporate Irish Wedding Blessing and Toasts in remarks made during the Ceremony and the Reception. Here are just a few examples:

May your mornings bring joy and your evenings bring peace.
May your troubles grow few as your blessings increase.
May the saddest day of your future
Be no worse than the happiest day of your past.
May your hands be forever blessed in friendship
And your hearts joined forever in love.
Your lives are very special
God has touched you in many ways.
May his blessings rest upon you
And fill all your coming days.

May your troubles be less,
And your blessings be more
And nothing but happiness
come through your door.

Long live the Irish!
Long live their cheer!
Long love our friendship,
year after year!

Love, life and happiness
May your troubles be few and
Your blessings many.

©2006 Weddingstar Inc.