Where Can I get Legally Married in Ireland?

Where Can I Get Legally Married in Ireland?

Many couples assume they can only have a legal wedding in a registry office but that’s not true! In Ireland, once you work with a registered solemniser, your wedding can take place in almost any setting that’s meaningful to you.

Let’s walk through how it works, where you can say “I do,” and what to keep in mind when choosing your location.

 
What the Law Actually Says

In Ireland, all legal marriages - whether civil, religious or secular must be performed by someone on the Register of Solemnisers.

That means if your celebrant (like me!) is officially registered, your ceremony can be fully legal, personal and held almost anywhere - not just at a registry office.

You’ll need to:

Give at least 3 months’ notice to the HSE.
Attend your notification appointment with your documents.
Receive your Marriage Registration Form (MRF) — the legal document your solemniser completes on the day.
That’s it - once the paperwork is right, you can choose a location that reflects you.

 
Freedom of Location

Legal ceremonies in Ireland can take place both indoors and outdoors. The only rule is that the venue must be open to the public and permanent in nature.

This means your ceremony can happen at:

A country estate or hotel
A garden or courtyard
A beach, park, or forest venue (with permission)

I’ve married couples everywhere from historic castles to intimate venues - each one unique and fully legal.

Learn more from the HSE about what makes a venue suitable for a legal wedding ceremony in Ireland.

 
Registrar vs Solemniser - What’s the Difference?

A Registrar works for the HSE and performs civil ceremonies, usually in registry offices or approved venues during office hours.
A Registered Solemniser (like me) can marry you any day of the week, in almost any setting, and include personal vows, rituals and readings.
Both are legal but the solemniser route gives you freedom, flexibility, and storytelling.

 
Choosing the Right Setting

When deciding where to hold your legal ceremony, consider:

Accessibility: space for guests, parking, shelter options.
Atmosphere: does it match your story or theme?
Privacy: public access is required, but you can still create intimacy.
Practicalities: seating, sound, and flow for your ceremony.
 
Beautiful Locations Across Ireland

From the coastal charm of County Louth to the rolling landscapes of Meath and the elegant city settings in Dublin - Ireland is full of incredible ceremony spots.

Each offers a different kind of magic and as a registered solemniser, I can legally marry you in any of them.

 
Final Steps Before Your Big Day

Once you’ve chosen your venue and celebrant:

Book your solemniser and venue date.
Notify the HSE (at least 3 months before).
Attend your appointment to get your MRF.
Bring your MRF to the ceremony - and sign it with your witnesses.
Your marriage will then be legally recognised once the MRF is returned to the registrar’s office within one month after the ceremony.

 
Let’s Make It Personal - and Legal

Your ceremony deserves to feel both heartfelt and stress-free.
As a registered solemniser, I’ll guide you through every legal step and create a ceremony that’s completely yours which will be relaxed, joyful and full of meaning.

Book your free consultation to check your date and start planning your ceremony anywhere in Ireland.