Irish
For a touch of tradition from the lovely
green isle, you might well want to consider
their traditional wedding cake, which is a
far cry from the sugary delight we call a
“wedding cake”. Theirs is the true fruit
cake well laced with raisins, almonds,
cherries, and spice. In the true Irish
spirit the recipe is laden with brandy or
bourbon.
In the early 1900's, an Irish couple would
walk to church together on their Wedding
Day. If the people of their parish approved
their union they would throw rice, pots,
pans, brushes and other household items at
the couple as they approached their church.
Today, "hen parties" (Bridal Showers) have
replaced this practice. Some Irish people
wear a "claddagh" ring for a wedding
ring. This ring was created by a master
goldsmith, Richard Joyce, 400 years ago in a
fishing village called Claddagh, which
overlooks Galway Bay. The claddagh
symbolizes love, loyalty, and friendship. On
the right hand, with the heart facing
inward, it means the wearer's heart is
unoccupied. Facing outwards reveals love is
being considered. When worn on the left hand
facing outward, it signifies that the wearer
is seriously committed or married. At some
Irish wedding receptions, the Groom is
lifted in a chair ("jaunting car") to
celebrate that he is a married man. For good
luck, the newlyweds are given a horseshoe to
display in their home in the upward
position. A traditional Irish wedding cake
is a fruitcake. Traditional Irish toasts, in
addition to remarks from the Best Man, are
very popular.
Irish Marriage Blessing
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.
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