Planning A Celtic Wedding And Reception

Many Irish and Celtic traditions add charm and a sense of heritage to wedding ceremonies and receptions. For today’s modern brides and grooms-to-be, incorporating the rituals and customs of Celtic culture can be a great way to bring added meaning to this romantic occasion. There are many ways to bring the poetic and joyful spirit of the Celts to your wedding day…here are some tips on planning a Celtic wedding and reception:

Pipers Are Part Of Celtic Tradition –

If you want to add impact without spending a fortune, consider hiring a traditional piper to lead you down the aisle. If you’re of Scottish ancestry, a bagpiper, of the sort seen at most parades and Highland Festivals, will be perfect. If you’re of Irish or Welsh heritage, traditional instruments, such as uilleann pipes (Irish bagpipes) or Welsh hornpipes will contribute to the perfect mood.

Finding a competent piper can be easier than you might expect, but it does depend on where you live. Many regions have thriving Celtic groups that meet to play music or socialize. Be sure to search for these groups online or by contacting Irish pubs and other venues. Chances are good the owners will have some leads you can follow to find the perfect musician for your wedding.

A Lucky Horsehoe Adds Charm To A Bride’s Ensemble –

The Celtic people of centuries past prized cattle and horses – often, owning many animals was a sign of wealth and status. Today, Celtic brides may choose to carry silver horseshoes on their wedding day, because they are believed to bring good luck to the new marriage.

Some brides-to-be prepare for their weddings by tucking a tiny horseshoe into their bodices, or attaching it to their bridal bouquet with a pretty ribbon. This is a great way to add a little Celtic spirit to your nuptials. These horseshoes can be as plain or as luxe as you wish. The horseshoe itself will become an item of great sentimental value after the wedding, and it can be passed down through the generations.

Bridal Jewelry Can Reflect Celtic Spirit –

Certain symbols appear throughout Celtic history – they decorate stone monuments, High Crosses, Celtic Crosses, and priceless art treasures, including the Book Of Kells. Today, jewelry designers honor this legacy by engraving these motifs on engagement rings, wedding bands, earrings and pendants. Look for true Celtic patterns, which are usually created in the interlace style. This woven type of design has a hypnotic feel and a mystical meaning – generally, themes of faith and eternity are found in knot work Celtic symbols, such as the Trinity Knot.

Today, many brides and grooms enjoy honoring their Celtic heritage with wedding bands featuring Irish Claddagh symbols, Celtic spirals, or Trinity Knots. The best Celtic jewelry will always be handcrafted, usually in Ireland, and assayed to guarantee purity and karat. Choosing Celtic bridal jewelry and wedding bands can be a great way to add beauty and a sense of history to your wedding day.

Music, Décor, and Menus –

It can be fun to add Celtic touches to your reception through the use of traditional food and drink, decorations, and music. In fact, these elements can really capture the spirit of Celtic culture, while also providing guests with unforgettable ambiance.

Celtic music, from fiddles or pipes to modern Celtic pop or rock, can be a great choice for your reception. Look for local musicians who play at Irish pubs or Celtic festivals, and ask them for a demo tape of live performance to gauge their talent. Music that inspires dancing should be your goal.

Décor could incorporate Scottish tartans, Irish colors such as emerald green, or even Celtic symbols embroidered on napkins. Invitations could feature Celtic symbols or old-fashioned calligraphy in the Celtic style. By sending guests Celtic-inspired invitatations, you will set the tone for your wedding. Guests will know they are going to be a part of something special!

Menu choices might include traditional dishes such as Irish stew, soda bread, or Scotch broth. Hearty beef and lamb dishes will also reflect your heritage and please the palate. Your wedding cake could take on added splendor with the addition of sugar shamrocks. wild roses, or Scotch Heather blossoms. Consult with a cake designer to get the best effect. Traditional spice cakes or honey cakes will be straight out of a Medieval fairy tale.

Getting Creative Can Be Fulfilling – So Use Your Imagination

These ideas are just a few suggestions for planning the perfect Celtic wedding and reception. You should also consider your own wedding gown (or tuxedo). Some men enjoy eschewing the expected suit or tux and wearing a kilt and sporran instead. Women who want an inspiring Celtic wedding may enjoy wearing gowns with vintage or historical details, such as empire waists, Irish lace panels, or long, fitted sleeves that reach the fingertips. Use your imagination and make your Celtic dreams come true as you celebrate a new life together.

This article has been written exclusively for Cherished Gifts & Favors, by Leigh Maher, of Irish Celtic Jewels: the online jewelry store, specialising in Celtic engagement rings and wedding rings.