Getting legally married in Ireland? There are several types of Irish wedding ceremonies that you can choose from. Take a look at everything you need to know about religious ceremonies, secular ceremonies and civil ceremonies, as well as who can legally officiate them.
Featured image credit: Wanderley Massafelli
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These are the different types of Irish wedding ceremonies:
Religious ceremonies
Ceremonies which fall under this category can include, but are not limited to, beliefs such as; Catholic, Church of Ireland, Presbyterian, Baptist, Methodist, Jewish, Jehovah’s Witness, Buddhist, Pagan, Spiritual, Interfaith or Multifaith.
Ministers, Priests, Rabbi’s, Pastors, Celebrants and many more, who are Registered Solemnisers nominated by these bodies, can all carry out legally recognised marriage ceremonies.
The ceremonies are held in accordance to whichever belief you choose, and could be held in a place of worship – like a Church, or perhaps in a wedding venue, such as a castle, hotel or garden.
Secular ceremonies
Humanist Ceremonies: These are legally recognised in Ireland if carried out by a registered humanist solemniser (see link below).
Celtic Ceremonies: Celtic Monk and Priest, Dara Ó Maoildhia, can legally marry couples under the Aisling Árann organisation.
Civil Ceremonies
These are legally-binding secular ceremonies carried out by a registrar. Civil ceremonies can take place in a registry office or by the registrar traveling to perform a civil ceremony in an approved room or venue (many hotels and venues have approved rooms, just ask your venue when booking).
Please note that office ceremonies can only take place during office opening hours (9am-5pm, Monday-Friday). For couples wishing to host their wedding on a weekend, consider taking care of the legal bit prior to your Big Day and then having a celebrant host your ceremony on the day.
Take a look at the complete list of registered solemnisers here!
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