It’s time to break out your favorite green top, enjoy emerald-dyed beverages, and pinch your most forgetful friends! Today’s post honors those who invoke the Irish culture and heritage on their wedding day.

There are many ways to pay homage to St. Patrick’s Day, which is observed in more countries than any other national festival! You can go all-out, with leprechaun beards for the groomsmen, or Irish Uilleann bagpipes. Or, you can be a little more understated, with lush green foliage or green gem accessories.

We have included both subtle and bold tips to commemorate the 17th day in March. Feel free to grab an ice-cold Guinness, kick back, and partake in a bit ‘o St. Paddy’s Day wedding inspiration below.

The Claddagh ring, originated in the Irish fishing village of Claddagh in the 17th century, is traditionally given as a token of love at Irish weddings. The two hands (representing friendship) are centered around a heart that signifies love, which is topped with a crown of loyalty. A ring worn with the heart facing outward is a symbol of engagement, and when the heart is turned inward, it shows that the couple has tied the knot!

Sweeter and quieter than most other bagpipes, the sounds of Irish Uilleann bagpipes make for a beautiful walk down the aisle.

Shamrock-green bridesmaid dresses and unique emerald jewelry look beautiful, as do fresh green-accented blooms.

As photographers, we also like to use our surroundings whenever possible to drive home the theme of the day, such as photographing the bride’s shoes against a green gate, or taking advantage of the lush green foliage around the property.

Sweet Cheeks Baking Co. found an ingenious way to add a splash of emerald green to this wedding cake – they used crystallized sugar ribbons! For another sweet touch, one of our St. Paddy’s day wedding couples treated their guests to shimmering bags of gold —  filled with festive Guinness-infused chocolates :)

Whether you are in the bridal party, or even plan to attend a St. Patrick’ Day wedding, it’s important to avoid “the pinch”! Even if you don’t break out your impressive shamrock suit or matching ADIDAS track suits, wearing green will keep you safe and pinch-free.

There are small ways to incorporate a little culture into your March 17th wedding, such as entertaining guests with an Irish jig, or placing a mini Blarney Stone on the escort card table. Legend has it that if you kiss the infamous stone at Blarney Castle in Ireland, you will be granted with the gift of eloquent speech :) Pucker up!

To take the party up a notch, you can also incorporate dramatic lighting into your event space. For example, emerald up-lights add a fun atmosphere to a St. Patrick’s Day evening reception.

Here’s to a happy and lively St. Patrick’ Day!