A Celtic wedding can be a magical, mystical experience that will have your guests talking for years. If you've never heard of a Celtic wedding before and are wondering what it's all about, then read on!


A Day to Remember your Celtic Wedding

In order to make your ceremony perfect, keep the following elements in mind:

  • Location
  • Music and decorations
  • Food and beverages
  • Flowers
  • Dress code

1. . . . . . . . . . . . . Blessings on the Bride & Groom

Blessings are a prayer or statement of good wishes given by anyone, including the bride and groom. They can be written or improvised, in any language and in any setting. A blessing is traditionally an inclusive way for family members to express their love for one another during this special celebration. Here's some inspiration:

  • "May your marriage bring you joy."
  • "May your home be filled with love and laughter."
  • "May your hearts beat as one until they cease to beat at all."


2. . . . . . . . Handfasting Ceremony

A handfasting ceremony is a beautiful way to bind your union. It’s an ancient custom that has been practiced in many cultures throughout history, and it’s one of Celtic weddings' most romantic traditions. Handfasting is a symbolic gesture that represents the commitment you make to each other today and forever. In this ceremony, you will be joined together with cords which are tied around your wrists (hence the name). This tradition originated in ancient Scotland when couples were traveling far away from home and could not afford to have a wedding ring made just for them—so they used their own clothing items instead! Today, handfasting ceremonies are still commonly performed at weddings as well as other occasions like festivals or even funerals; however there are strict rules about what type of cord should be used (more on that later).


3. . . . Ancient Celtic Symbolism for Love & Marriage

The Celtic knot is a symbol of love. A Celtic heart represents eternal love. The Celtic cross is a symbol of eternity and infinity, with four equal arms linked at their tips to form an unbroken circle. The triquetra (or trinity knot) represents the Holy Trinity: Father, Son & Holy Spirit.

A spiral is actually a very old Celtic symbol for growth and rebirth, which makes it perfect for your wedding day! You could incorporate this into your ceremony by having each person tie them on to drape over items like chairs or tables in the reception venue; this way everyone can leave with something special from your big day! The circle is one of the most important symbols in ancient Celtic art because it represents perfection – there are no beginning or end points so everything seems endless when inside an unbroken circle! If you’re looking for something more subtle than spirals then this might be right up your alley—just make sure not everyone gets confused by what it means!


4. .. The Celtic Marriage Vow

The Celtic marriage vow is a promise of love and loyalty. It’s a promise to give each other the best of yourself, to be true to one another, and to share both the joys and sorrows of life. The vow allows for your authentic self-expression and freedom within your relationship.

The bride and groom stand facing each other with their hands clasped together. While they repeat these words spoken by the officiant (or you), they look deeply into each others eyes:

"I take you as my partner; I will care for you in all aspects of our lives, supporting your growth as an individual while we grow together as partners."


5. .. Ancient Irish Wedding Customs

  • The wedding feast. A great deal of time was spent preparing the wedding feast, which was usually quite elaborate. Over a hundred people might be expected to attend and the food would have to be large enough to feed them all. The bride's family hosted this meal, but they also had to make sure that they had enough food for all their guests as well; if not, then the bride's family would have to borrow from friends or neighbors in order to ensure that everyone was fed properly at this event.
  • The bedding ceremony is another tradition that has survived into modern times and is still practiced today among some families in Ireland and Scotland. It involves the removal of all beds from the house prior to being married so that there will be no temptation between husband and wife while sleeping together on their wedding night.


6. .. Music and Dance

Music and dance are a big part of any Irish wedding, so make sure you have enough for your guests to enjoy. Whether you choose traditional Gaelic tunes or contemporary classics, make sure that the music fits with your theme and location. If possible, hire a local band or musician who can play the kind of songs that will appeal to your guests. Remember that some people may not know how to dance very well so it's important to provide instruction if it's necessary. It's also important not only to have enough music but also enough dancing space for all your guests! While many people will prefer conversation over dancing (after all, this is their day), others may feel left out if there aren't enough opportunities for them to join in on the fun.


The day of your Celtic Wedding is a wonderful time to remember. From the ceremony and reception to the honeymoon, there are plenty of things to do that will make your day extra special. So, use these tips to plan a beautiful event that’s sure to be a hit with you and all your guests!

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Thank you for reading!


Affordable Wedding photography by Fungirlwithacamera Photography.


Hope from Fungirlwithacamera Photography specializes in affordable wedding photography as well as backyard wedding photography and small intimate weddings. Currently accepting weddings in East Brunswick, Highland Park and surrounding areas in New Jersey.