Some of my favourite weddings to film have been for couples who flew across the Atlantic to say their vows. They come for all sorts of reasons, but by the end of the weekend they all say the same thing: they get it now. Here’s why so many American couples fall in love with getting married in Ireland.
Coming home
Around 38 million Americans claim Irish ancestry, according to the 2020 US Census. For a lot of couples a wedding here isn’t just a destination, it’s a homecoming. I’ve filmed grooms visiting the parish their great-grandparents left, brides wearing a grandmother’s Claddagh ring, and families meeting Irish cousins for the very first time at the welcome drinks. Those moments are pure documentary gold.
The landscape does the talking
Green fields, stone walls, wild Atlantic cliffs, lakes and mountains, all within an hour or two of each other. In the south-west you can say your vows in a country house, take portraits on a beach and finish in a pub with a fire going. You don’t need to decorate much: the view is the decor.
Castles, country houses and proper pubs
Ireland is full of castles, manor houses and old estates that now host weddings, often exclusively, so your guests have the whole place to themselves for the weekend. And then there’s the pub: a session with live trad music the night before the wedding is something your guests will talk about for years.
The welcome
Irish hospitality is the real thing. Venue staff, drivers, the woman in the local shop: everyone wants to know your story and wish you well. American guests always tell me how looked after they felt, and it shows on film.
It’s easier to get here than you think
Direct flights. Dublin and Shannon have direct flights from many US cities, and Cork and Kerry airports connect easily through Dublin, London and Europe.
US Preclearance. At Dublin and Shannon you clear US immigration and customs before you fly home, so you land in the States as a domestic arrival.
Shannon for the west and south-west. Shannon is a short drive from Kerry, Clare and Limerick, and about two hours from Cork.
No language barrier. Planning, contracts and vows all in English (with a few Irish blessings if you like).
Make it a week, not a day
Most couples coming from the US turn the wedding into a trip: a few days on the Wild Atlantic Way beforehand, a welcome night in the pub, the wedding, then a recovery walk on the beach. That rhythm is perfect for a documentary, because the story starts long before the ceremony.
A few practical tips
Give notice of your marriage at least three months ahead. Couples from abroad can start by post but need to meet the registrar in person at least five days before the wedding. My elopement guide has the details.
Many couples do the legal ceremony at home and have a celebrant-led ceremony here. It’s simpler and just as meaningful.
Plan for the weather, and bring layers whatever the season.
Tell your guests to book flights and rooms early, especially for summer.
If you’re planning to bring your people over to Ireland, I’d love to help tell that story, from the first pint to the last dance. Get in touch and tell me where your family’s from.
