For generations, Irish weddings have featured the classic line-up of bridesmaids and groomsmen, complete with colour-coordinated outfits, speeches, and endless photo opportunities. But more and more couples are deciding to skip the traditional wedding party altogether. If the thought of wrangling multiple outfits, managing a group WhatsApp, or footing the bill for extra suits fills you with dread, you’re not alone. Welcome to the growing trend of couples choosing to have no wedding party in Ireland.
Why Couples Are Saying No to the Tradition
The decision to skip a wedding party often comes down to three things: cost, simplicity, and personal preference. Weddings in Ireland are already a big financial commitment, so removing the expense of dresses, suits, bouquets, and thank-you gifts can free up budget for other areas. For some couples, it’s simply about reducing stress. Without bridesmaids and groomsmen to organise, you’re left with fewer moving parts and a calmer lead-up to the big day. Others just prefer the idea of keeping the spotlight firmly on themselves rather than on a long line of attendants.
Top Tip: If you’re on the fence, ask yourself whether a wedding party will genuinely add joy to your day, or whether you’re only including it because “that’s what’s done.”
The Budget Benefits
Having no wedding party in Ireland can mean significant savings. Between hair, makeup, outfits, and accessories, the cost can quickly climb into the thousands. Skipping these extras allows couples to spend their budget where it matters most, whether that’s upgrading the menu, hiring a live band, or extending the honeymoon. For couples planning a smaller, more intimate celebration, it also helps keep everything in proportion without feeling overly formal.
Alternatives to a Traditional Wedding Party
Choosing not to have a wedding party doesn’t mean you have to go it completely alone. Many couples still appoint a sibling, best friend, or even a parent to act as a witness or help with practical tasks on the day. Others ask a close friend to act as an unofficial “point person” for keeping the schedule on track. Some couples include friends in other ways, like asking them to do a reading during the ceremony, or involving them in a music performance.
Top Tip: Think about the roles you’ll actually need filled on the day, such as a witness for the paperwork, someone to hold your bouquet, or help with speeches. These can often be covered by family members without needing a full wedding party.
Managing Without a Wedding Party
If you’re skipping the traditional line-up, communication is key. Let your guests know early so they understand the flow of the day. Some couples choose to have a “getting ready crew” of friends who aren’t officially bridesmaids or groomsmen but are still there for the laughs and moral support. You can also keep things smooth by hiring a wedding coordinator, even just for the day itself, to make sure timings run without a hitch.
Top Tip: Focus on how you want the day to feel, rather than how it should look. If a big wedding party doesn’t fit your vision, that’s perfectly okay.
Final Thoughts
The idea of having no wedding party in Ireland is gaining popularity because it’s practical, cost-effective, and stress-reducing. Couples are increasingly personalising their weddings to reflect what matters most to them, and trimming away traditions that don’t quite fit. Whether you go with zero attendants, just one witness, or something in between, the most important thing is that your wedding feels true to you.
Featured image credit: Emilien Durand
