Why This Checklist Rocks

Planning a wedding in Ireland can feel like herding cats in a rainstorm. This checklist is your no-BS guide to a stunning day, tailored for Irish couples. From HSE legalities to snagging top suppliers in Cork and Kerry, we’ve got you covered. Built for a 12-month timeline but flexible for last-minute planners, it’s designed to keep you sane and your wedding Instagram-worthy.

Let’s make your day as epic as a Cliffs of Moher sunset. Ready? Let’s dive in.

12+ Months Out: Lay the Foundation

Just said “yes”? Time to hustle before Ireland’s best venues and suppliers are gone.

• Set a budget. Irish weddings average €30,000-€35,000. Decide what you can spend—castles ain’t cheap.
• Draft a guest list. Small (50-80) or massive (200+)? This sets your venue and catering needs.
• Choose a date/season. Summer (June-August) books fast and costs more. Autumn or winter saves cash and adds cozy vibes.
• Book your venue. From Kerry’s Dromquinna Manor to Cork’s Castlemartyr, Ireland’s venues are stunning but competitive. Check OneFabDay.com for inspo.
• Hire a photographer. Top Cork-Kerry photographers like us book 12-18 months out. Secure JOD Photography now.
• Start a wedding website. Share travel, hotel, and RSVP details. Free tools at OneFabDay.com.

9-12 Months Out: Lock in the Essentials

Nail the big-ticket items now to avoid last-minute panic.

• Book your celebrant. Ireland requires an HSE-registered solemniser for legal marriages. Book early—popular ones like Sharon Quigley fill up fast.
• Notify HSE of intent to marry. Costs €200, done 3-12 months before. Download the “Capture of Data” form from gov.ie.
• Book key suppliers. Photographer (that’s us), videographer, band/DJ, florist, caterer. Cork and Kerry pros book fast—don’t wait.
• Shop for your dress. Boutiques like The Wedding Room in Cork need 6-9 months for custom orders. Try three shops max to avoid overwhelm.
• Plan engagement photos. A fun way to test your photographer’s style. See our work.
• Research wedding insurance. Covers cancellations, supplier no-shows. Check OneFabDay.com for providers.

6-8 Months Out: Build the Vibe

Time to shape the look and feel of your day, from flowers to music.

• Order invitations/save-the-dates. Include your wedding website for RSVPs. Eco-friendly digital options save cash.
• Book hair and makeup artists. Schedule trials to nail your look. Cork’s Upstyle is a solid pick.
• Choose wedding party attire. Keep bridesmaid dresses simple to avoid drama. Groomsmen? Rent suits for ease.
• Plan ceremony details. Pick readings, music, and personal vows. Clear with your celebrant to avoid surprises.
• Book transport. Vintage cars or horse-drawn carriages? Book now for charm. OneFabDay.com has ideas.
• Plan your honeymoon. Ireland’s travel agents like Trailfinders save time.

3-5 Months Out: Crunch Time

Shit’s getting real. Stay sharp and delegate where you can.

• Finalise HSE marriage notification. Latest deadline: 3 months out. Don’t fuck this up—check gov.ie.
• Send invitations. Include hotel and transport info for out-of-town guests. OneFabDay.com has templates.
• Confirm supplier schedules. Delivery times, setup needs, contacts. Share a master list with your venue.
• Schedule dress fittings. Bring shoes, shapewear, accessories to perfect the look.
• Plan stag/hen parties. Hand this off to your best man or maid of honour for sanity.
• Order wedding rings. Allow time for engravings or resizing. Brown Thomas has options.

1-2 Months Out: Final Push

You’re almost there. Tie up loose ends and keep your cool.

• Share shot list with photographer. Must-have moments, family shots, key people. Talk to us.
• Confirm final headcount. Update caterer with numbers and dietary needs.
• Prepare supplier payments/tips. Seal envelopes and hand to your best man.
• Rehearse ceremony. Run through with wedding party and celebrant to avoid chaos.
• Deliver decor to venue. Place cards, favours, signage—drop it off early.
• Create day-of timeline. Share with wedding party and key suppliers.

Week Before & Day Of: Soak It In

You’ve earned this. Enjoy every second of your big day.

• Pamper yourself. Manicure, massage, waxing. Dye hair 7-10 days out to avoid scalp stains.
• Pack an emergency kit. Bobby pins, safety pins, tissues, snacks. Assign a bridesmaid to carry it.
• Assign a photography liaison. A bridesmaid to point out key people for shots. Let us know who.
• Hand over rings. Best man’s job now. Double-check they’ve got them.
• Day of: Breathe. Trust your suppliers, love every moment, and let us capture it all.

Post-Wedding: Tie Up Loose Ends

Don’t ghost the cleanup. Finish like a pro.

• Return rentals. Tuxes, decor, equipment—assign a family member to handle.
• Clean dress/suit. Drop off for professional preservation.
• Send thank-you notes. Personalize for guests and suppliers who killed it.
• Collect marriage certificate. Pick up from HSE within 30 days. Details here.
• Review your photos. We’ll deliver stunning shots to relive your day. See our style.

Pro Tips for Your Irish Wedding

Make your day uniquely yours with these Ireland-specific hacks.

• Master the legalities. HSE marriage notification is mandatory. Miss it, and you’re not legally hitched. 5StarCeremonies.ie breaks it down.
• Book early in Cork & Kerry. Top photographers and venues like OneFabDay.com listings get snapped up 18 months out.
• Embrace the weather. Ireland’s rain is part of the charm. Plan indoor backups and stunning umbrella shots. We’ve got you.
• Add Irish touches. Claddagh rings, uilleann pipes, or a whiskey toast—lean into the culture.
• Use a wedding planner app. Free tools like OneFabDay.com keep you organized.

Grab Your Free Checklist

Keep this guide handy with our printable PDF. Stick it on your fridge or share with your wedding crew.

Why Choose JOD Photography?

Based in Cork and Kerry, we capture your wedding’s raw, real moments—no cheesy poses, just timeless shots. From windswept cliffs to cozy castle receptions, we make your day unforgettable. Book now to secure your date.