Irish Bridal Traditions

Since time immemorial, the Emerald Isle has been the land of deep and longstanding traditions. Stemming from ancient folklore and customs that have been passed down through the ages, traditions surrounding the wedding ritual between man and woman run the gamut from the practical to the playful. Here’s a look at some Irish bridal traditions that illustrate the Gaelic sense of romance, imagination, and sometimes, quite sensible insight.

Pragmatic Practices

The Irish custom of throwing rice, kitchen equipment (such as pots and pans), and other necessary items to set up housekeeping dates from the early 20th century. This reasonable ritual gave the couple, who more than likely didn’t have a lot in tangible necessities, gave them at least a start in married life with things they could put to good and immediate use. Later on, this custom merged with another Irish tradition, the “hen” party, to become what is known today as the “shower.”

Keeping Up the Luck

Real, iron horseshoes were often given to the Irish bride to fend off any potential evil. The horseshoe was hung – usually over the doorway into the home – right side up, i.e., so that it looked liked a “U,” to keep the luck from “spilling out.”

Nowadays, this Irish custom has metamorphosed into the bride carrying a horseshoe made from porcelain – which not only makes for a daintier bit wedding attire, but also of modern home décor! (It still must be hung correctly, however, for the good luck to remain intact!)

While most of us don’t realize it, even the tradition of a honeymoon originates from the long-ago customs of ancient Ireland. The first lunar month after a couple wed was guaranteed to be filled with a goodly supply of mead – an ancient wine made from honey.

Given along with matching goblets – one each for the bride and the groom – the month-long provision of honey wine ensured a relaxed union, and hopefully, the blessing of a child in the near future.

The Famous Claddagh Ring

Two hands embracing a crowned heart describe the distinctively Irish Claddagh ring, worn not only as a symbol of marriage, but also as a sign of deep and enduring friendship. The ring, originally designed sometime in the early 1700s by Richard Joyce, a master goldsmith, continues to make itself a hallmark of undying love, loyalty, and friendship.

Worn not only by the common folk of Ireland, the Claddagh ring has graced the hands of nobility including Queens Victoria and Alexandra, and the Prince and Princess of Monaco. Former President of the United States Ronald Reagan was given a Claddagh ring by the people of Galway County (next to Claddagh village in Ireland, where the ring originated) to commemorate the lasting friendship between the two countries.

These are just a few of the many Irish bridal traditions that some may know of, and many do not. But for those with the blood of the Irish flowing in their veins, or those who are marrying into the grand Irish fold, or even for those who’s curiosity and interest have led them to wonder, these traditions do more than entertain. They are the stuff of history – and of weddings made in heaven.