Marriages in Ireland

For a valid marriage to take place in Ireland, there are some different requirements than in the US.

First, the couple must given notification of intention to marry at least 3 months in advance. This is to be done in person, making an appointment with the Registar. It cannot be done by post. A friend of mine had a rough experience, as the official quizzed him as a father would before the permission was granted. None of those shotgun Las Vegas weddings allowed here.

Then the ceremony must take place at an approved venue. Actually, prior to November 2007, the ceremony could only take place in a church or in the Registry. No weddings in homes, parks, etc. During a church ceremony, there would be a specific point in which the couple signs the registry that is kept in the church, the record for all time of their valid marriage. Ahh, this is consistent with the understanding among researchers that the churches are the place of record for births, marriages, and deaths. I never really understood that in the US, but now I see how that would be true.

Now, however, the official record is kept in the Registry, regardless of the venue (similar to in the US). There are a few more allowances for venues, but not much. A park is still not acceptable.

The following is taken directly from the official guidelines concerning marriage venues:
"The place in which marriage may be solemnized must be a fixed structure that is clearly identifiable by description and location as a distinct part of a venue.
The requirement that the marriage be solemnized in a fixed structure that is open to the public precludes marriages being solemnized in the open air, a tent, marquee or other temporary structure, or a private dwelling."