American's getting married in Ireland
I'm assuming you’re an American couple dreaming of cliff tops, candlelit castles, Guinness by a turf fire, and a wedding gallery that looks like it belongs in Vogue. In that case, Ireland might just be your perfect destination. And no, it's not just for the Outlander-obsessed (hello Jamie Fraser) or folks tracing their Iirish roots.
More and more Americans are choosing Ireland for their luxury weddings, and with good reason, lads, it’s drop-dead gorgeous, surprisingly good value for money, and brimming with exclusive wedding venues that will knock your woollen socks off.
PS I Love you style - The Romance of Getting Married in Ireland
Ireland is having a bit of a moment when it comes to weddings. From Cashel Palace in Tipperary (with its swanky spa and Michelin-starred dining) to Adare Manor in Limerick (hello, five-star fairy tale), there’s no shortage of luxury wedding venues in Ireland that bring the wow factor.
But it’s not just about the castles and the champagne. There’s a kind of magic here, the type you feel in your chest when the uilleann pipes start up, or when the rain pauses just long enough to catch a rainbow over the Kerry mountains.
And that sprinkle of magic? Sarah Kate Photography captures it effortlessly. Known as one of Ireland’s best wedding photographers, she specialises in romantic, elegant storytelling with a more than a side of craic. If you’re tying the knot in Kerry, Cork, West Cork or Tipperary, you’ll want her in your corner...rain, hail or shine.
Venues where Americans are Choosing to get Married in Ireland
West Cork & Cork City
From the cliffside luxury of Dunmore House Hotel to forested hideaways like Glengarriff Lodge, West Cork is a photographer’s dream. Think candlelit ceremonies, woodland portraits, and small-town magic. Ballyvolane House has an Irish Farm House charm thats unrivalled if thats your wedding aesthetic. And 5 star Castlemartyr Resort is close to Cork City and has luxury feel thats unrivalled. Sarah Kate Photography is based here and absolutely buzzing with craic to show you around.
Kerry
Killarney, Kenmare, Dingle… It’s like every romantic Irish film rolled into one. Whether it’s a lakeside ceremony in Muckross Abbey or a party at Sheen Falls or Dromquinna Manor, Kerry offers drama, charm, and a really good time. Let's not forget Dingle for the all round beauty that is Slea head....say your vows at Dunquin Pier and party away at Dick Macks while staying at Dingle Skellig.
Cashel Palace – Tipperary
Hello five-star Georgian decadence. Cashel Palace Hotel overlooks the Rock of Cashel, and feels like something out of Bridgerton (only with better food and fewer corsets). It’s where you go when you want to feel like actual Irish royalty. Or hire out your very own Regency Manor House, Kilshane House a perfect exclusive venue hire to keep all your guests in one place.
Adare Manor – Limerick
This luxury wedding venue is a firm favourite for American couples, and for good reason. Michelin-starred food, private ballroom, staff who remember your dog’s name.....it’s got it all. Not cheap, but 100% worth it... think viral Tik Tok wedding of Sean and Ally
Dingle Wedding on the beach at Slea Head
Is it Expensive to get Married in Ireland?
Yes, a luxury wedding in Ireland can be an investment not just monetarily but also in memories. But compared to a big-budget bash in the US, you’ll often get waymore bang for your buck here ladies. Think: renting out a private estate, having your ceremony in a castle chapel, and dancing the night away in a glass-walled ballroom overlooking a lake… all for a price that might just surprise you and it's the reason more and more Americans are choosing this European country to get married in.
Average Costs (in USD):
Weddings in Ireland Cost Range
- Luxury Venue Hire $8,500 – $26,500 USD (approx)
- Wedding Planner - $3,700 – $10,600+USD (approx)
- Sarah Kate Photography From $4,300 USD (approx)
- Florals & Styling $3,200 – $10,600 USD (approx)
- Music & Entertainment $1,600 – $5,300 USD (approx)
- Celebrant/Legal Fees $530 – $1,060 USD (approx)
- Hair & Makeup $320 – $850 USD (approx)
- Accommodation (5-Star) $265 – $640/night
For reference, Adare Manor adaremanor.com and Cashel Palace are on the higher end, but the service and exclusivity are unmatched. You’re not just booking a venue; you’re booking an experience.
Wedding Planners are essential for destination weddings. They handle local logistics, legal documents, timelines, and those panic-y emails you’ll send at 2am.
Whether you're after a luxury wedding photographer in Ireland, a once-in-a-lifetime venue, or a laid-back elopement along the Wild Atlantic Way, here’s why Ireland is quickly becoming the “I do” destination of dreams.
Why You Need an Irish Luxury Wedding Photographer
Because once the cake’s gone, all you have left are the photos, having someone local who understands the venue, vendors and most importantly the changeable Irish weather is so important.
Sarah Kate Photography specialises in luxury weddings in Ireland and works almost exclusively with couples from the US. Expect stunning light, relaxed direction, and photos you’ll print out and hang on your wall (instead of just dumping on a USB in your kitchen drawer).
View real weddings:
FAQ: Can Americans Get Married in Ireland?
Can non-residents legally marry in Ireland? Yes! It’s totally doable and totally legal back home in the US.
What do I need to do?
- Give 3 months' notice to the Irish Civil Registrar
- Submit documents like birth certs, passports, and a declaration of freedom to marry
- Have a face-to-face meeting with the registrar (most couples build this into a pre-wedding trip)
Full details: HSE Ireland Marriage Information
Do I need a wedding planner?
Highly recommended, especially if you're not based in Ireland. They’ll deal with venues, legalities, time zones, and “wait, where is the nearest florist who speaks American?” situations.