Renewing your vows can be a wonderful way to honor your continued commitment to one another – it can also be a touching reminder of your wedding day and all of the memories you’ve created as a couple.
Many husbands and wives find the renewal ceremony quite moving, and they also consider it a great way to gather friends and loved ones for a celebration of life.
The beauty of renewing your vows is that there are really no set rules – the etiquette of a typical wedding doesn’t factor in. You can be as creative as you wish…
If you’re considering renewing your vows in the future, and you or your spouse are of Irish heritage, you might enjoy adding some Emerald Isle influences into your ceremony or reception.
Why Honor Ireland As You Honor One Another?
The Irish are known for their beautiful music, poetry, and wedding rituals. By using some elements of the old traditions in your celebration, you can capture the unique spirit of your ancestors.
As well, there is just something…romantic…about Irish vows, blessings, and traditions. All of them honor the spirit, the connection between friends, family, and couples, and the beauty of nature and the celestial realm.
For the Irish, words and music can be quite profound. After all, this is the country that produced Oscar Wilde, W.B. Yeats, and modern troubadours like Van Morrison!
Here are some excellent ways to add a touch of Irish beauty when you renew your vows:
Vows And Blessings
Irish vows and blessings are a low-cost, romantic way to add Irish spirit to your vow renewal ceremony. Whether you opt for Irish wedding vows or traditional Irish blessings (used as toasts at your reception), you can expect to enjoy the charm and deeper meaning of Irish culture.
Here are some lovely blessings you can customize to meet your own needs:
You cannot possess me for I belong to myself.
But while we both wish it, I give you that which is mine to give.
You cannot command me, for I am a free person.
But I shall serve you in those ways you require,
And the honeycomb will taste sweeter coming from my hand.
I pledge to you that yours will be the name I cry aloud in the night,
And the eyes into which I smile in the morning.
I pledge to you the first bite of my meat and the first drink from my cup.
I pledge to you my living and my dying, each equally in your care.
I shall be a shield for your back and you for mine.
I shall not slander you, nor you me.
I shall honor you above all others, and when we quarrel we shall do so in
Private and tell no strangers our grievances.
This is my wedding vow to you
This is the marriage of equals.
This verse is long, but it could be revised – you could choose four or five lines that really evoke your emotions. The words themselves first appeared in Celtic texts, and they were then translated for the book, Finn MacCool.
Another lovely Irish verse that can be used as a blessing or toast is this touching verse:
May the road rise to meet you,
May the wind be always at your back.
May the sun shine warm upon your face,
The rains fall soft upon your fields.
And until we meet again,
May God hold you in the palm of his hand.
May God be with you and bless you;
May you see your children’s children.
May you be poor in misfortune,
Rich in blessings,
May you know nothing but happiness
From this day forward.
May the road rise to meet you
May the wind be always at your back
May the warm rays of sun fall upon your home
And may the hand of a friend always be near.
May green be the grass you walk on,
May blue be the skies above you,
May pure be the joys that surround you,
May true be the hearts that love you.
These are just a couple of classic verses – research to look for more…
Other Ways To Add Irish And Celtic Spirit To Your Special Day
A special set of Celtic wedding bands made in Ireland can add beauty and meaning to your vow renewal. Why not upgrade from your original wedding bands, and choose matching Irish rings for your ceremony?
The band shown here is available for men and women, and it really captures a sense of history and heritage. The Trinity Knots featured on the two-toned gold ring are symbols of the Father, the Son, and the Holy Spirit.
For handcrafted beauty that lasts a lifetime, rings like this one are second to none. They will be a constant reminder of your love for one another, and your own ancestry.
Consider adding Irish elements to your invitations, decor, and menu. Add the lovely strains of Irish fiddles to your reception. Choose color schemes that feature emerald green accents, perhaps with cream and gold as neutrals. Flowers like wild roses and Irish Heather can also add a sense of atmosphere to this very important day.
For more Irish jewelry ideas, please browse our collection at our convenient, online jewelry store.
I love this ring. Where can I get it and how much is it?