Civil and Humanist Wedding Ceremonies

Civil and humanist ceremonies are becoming increasingly popular in Ireland. In 2015, almost one third of all marriages performed were civil ceremonies, while just over five per cent of couples opted for a humanist ceremony. These new findings are resulting in couples looking for wedding venues not just for the reception but for the whole day. 

Following an amendment to the Civil Registration Bill in 2013, which made humanist ceremonies legally binding and the same-sex marriage legislation which came into effect in November 2015, these figures will continue to rise steadily.

Here’s four perks of choosing a non-religious ceremony for your special day.

More Locations & Settings to Choose From

Until recently, wedding ceremonies could only take place in venues registered with the local authorities. Now, you can choose any type of venue or even a to complement your style and wedding theme including restaurants and hotels.. Humanist and civil ceremonies can take place outdoors at a viable address or at a venue that is open to the public.

Whether a historical ruin set in The Burren or a pretty as a picture garden affair is that wow factor setting you have been dreaming of, the options are boundless. If you are unsure, ask your celebrant for guidance on what is feasible.

It is a Good Compromise

Planning a wedding where both partners are of a different faith can be quite stressful, especially if both sets of parents are traditional. Many couples feel at a loss over what to do, but a humanist ceremony can be a great compromise.

More Budget-Friendly

It’s official, midweek weddings are on the rise! According to Irish wedding website Mrs2Be, almost 40 per cent of couples now favour a Friday celebration rather than the traditional Saturday nuptials.

These statistics are mainly due to the fact that registrars in Ireland are only permitted to carry out civil ceremonies between Monday and Friday – meaning you could make serious savings on your budget! Summer, Christmas and weekend wedding dates are highly sought after. And, many engaged couples will book their big day early to nab their chosen date, sometimes up to two years in advance! To fill availability midweek, many hotels and venues offer huge discounts with many packages including complimentary room hire and décor for your civil ceremony.

Personalise & Add Meaningful Touches

Humanist and civil ceremonies are much more flexible compared to those performed by a priest in a church. You and your partner will enjoy the freedom to create your own ceremony that is unique to you. Working with your celebrant, you will have a great deal of control over its content from readings and music to rituals performed on the day; some of which would not be allowed during a church ceremony.

Maybe you would like to write your own vows or choose a special pros or piece of poetry that is sentimental to you both. Religious ceremonies are much stricter on what is and isn’t allowed during the exchanging of the vows.

Contact us at the West Cork Hotel to see how we can make your dream day a reality www.westcorkhotel.com