TriState Pennysaver News

By Christie Harris

You just announced your engagement to family and friends and the wedding planning advice is overwhelming. There is only one thing you know for sure; that is, you want to celebrate your heritage with a Celtic wedding.

There are nine parts to a true Celtic ceremony: the casting and consecration of the circle, the presentation of the bride and groom, the statement of the Bard (poet or lyricist) about marriage, declarations of the bride and groom (vows), the exchange of rings, fasting of the hands, passing of light, Thanksgiving and Oath, and the blessing and opening of the circle. Any or all parts can be used for the ceremony, and there are many variations of each of the nine parts to consider.

There are other traditions that can be incorporated into a Celtic wedding. Music plays a large part and bagpipes are one of the most distinct instruments used. There are plenty of great Celtic artists in today’s music scene, so finding a mix of appropriate music is easy to do.

The bride and groom often carry a horseshoe for good luck. Since the real thing is a bit awkward and heavy, consider small horseshoe pins that can be worn on a lapel or tacked to the hand-fasting ribbons.

Brightly colored wedding dresses and kilts are the traditional garb, and barefoot couples signify their connection to the Earth.

Herbs play a role as well, and can be tucked into the bridal bouquet, the groom’s boutonnière, and incorporated into an arrangement on the alter. Rosemary is used to symbolize love, loyalty, and fidelity. Sage is for wisdom and long life. Thyme is for bravery, courage, and strength, and lavender is a symbol of love, loyalty and devotion.

Of course, no Celtic celebration is complete without plenty of food, drink and dancing. In traditional times, these celebrations lasted for days!

If you are unable to find a minister to perform a Celtic ceremony, consider asking a close friend or family member to be your Bard and minister. A Justice of the Peace standing by to make it legal by signing the marriage license is all you will need.

Good luck and many blessings for your big day.

May you have Walls for the Wind

And roof for the rain

And drinks beside the fire

Laughter to cheer you

And your love near you,

And all that your heart may desire

May joy and peace surround you,

Contentment latch your door,

And happiness be with you now

And bless you evermore.