Celtic/Irish Wedding Rituals
I would like to share with you some of the ethnic weddings that I have had the honor of officiating with Loving Unity. Since it is March, and St. Patrick's Day is coming closer, it seems fitting that I should start with this tradition. Exploring customs can be an exciting and educational journey for both the couple and me. Couples share their customs with one another and their guests which lead to an extraordinary and memorable wedding!
This is one of my favorites!! Generally speaking Irish Weddings take place over a period of days, full of fun and festivities!! They have a reputation of having a great time, centered around eating, music, dancing and drinking!
Music plays a large role in Celtic Weddings. One of the most popular types of music is a Bagpiper. He or she usually leads the wedding processional and escorts the couple out after the end of the ceremony. Celtic weddings have several interesting elements. Usually the bride is escorted in and presented, and the guests form a circle around the area. A bride usually is carrying a horseshoe for good luck. It can be incorporated into her bridal bouquet. It could also be used attached to the hand fasting ribbons or to the inside of the bridal gown. The couple will share their vows with one another. One of my favorite elements used at this time is the “oathing stone”. In ancient times, the kings and high political figures would place their hand on a stone as they said their oath. In the wedding ritual, couples place their hands or one of their feet on a stone, which can be designed as a stepping stone they can keep forever. As they share their vows together, they place their foot or hand on the stone, thus, casting their vows in stone. Several couples have made some unique and beautiful oathing stones.
Another ritual is a hand fasting ceremony. Hands can be gently tied together with ribbon, a vine, rope, or a piece of material that matches the wedding colors. The couple’s hands are bound together at the wrist to demonstrate that they are now bound together for life forming a circle of infinity and love.
A blessing cup or unity cup is used for the couples to drink from. Each takes a sip from the same cup, indicating that whatever may come forth in their marriage, they are willing to accept the bitter and the sweet, together in life.
At the reception, coins are to be tossed to the guests for good luck, or the couple could place candy coins at each place as a favor.
Depending on the location, couples may choose to wear sandals or be barefoot to be close to the earth. The burning of peat in a small fireplace will also enhance the atmosphere to create a true feeling of a Celtic wedding. 
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