Insights from the Lawlor's of Naas Wedding Survey 2024

Planning a wedding is a beautiful journey filled with countless decisions that shape the most important day of your life. To better understand what makes a wedding truly memorable, we conducted a comprehensive survey with over 350 guests and couples, and the results offer invaluable insights into what people cherish most on this special day.

Top 3 Favorite Aspects of a Wedding

When it comes to the highlights of a wedding, our respondents revealed that three elements stand out above the rest:

• Dinner/Meal: A memorable meal shared with loved ones is the cornerstone of any wedding celebration. It’s no surprise that the food experience tops the list!
• Dancing - DJ/Band: The dance floor is where memories are made, from the first dance to the last song of the night. Whether it's a live band or a DJ, the music sets the tone for an unforgettable evening.
• Ceremony: The heart of the wedding, the ceremony, signifies the beginning of a couple's new chapter together and is a chance to share special memories with your loved ones.

Preferred Wedding Locations

When asked about their ideal wedding location, respondents showed a strong preference for:

• Within Ireland: Keeping it within Ireland was the top choice for most.
• No preference, as long as the wedding is enjoyable: Flexibility is key, with many guests prioritising the experience over the location.
• Local (within 20 km of home/the couple’s home): Convenience is a factor, with some guests preferring weddings close to home.

Venue and Ceremony Preferences

Selecting the perfect venue and ceremony type is crucial. Here’s what our respondents prefer:

Venue Type:

• Traditional: Hotel ballrooms and banquet halls remain popular for their classic elegance.
• Unique and Creative Venues: Couples are increasingly drawn to distinctive settings that reflect their personalities.
• Outdoor Venues: The allure of nature continues to captivate, with many favouring outdoor spaces for their nuptials.

Ceremony Type:

• Civil Ceremony in a Wedding Venue: A popular choice for its simplicity and convenience.
• Religious Ceremony: Traditions hold strong, with many couples opting for religious services.
• Humanist Ceremony: A growing trend, these ceremonies offer a personalised, non-religious option.

Interestingly, 63% of respondents prefer a wedding where the ceremony and reception are held at the same location, emphasising the convenience and seamless flow of the day. Additionally, 90% prefer to stay overnight at the wedding venue, highlighting the importance of accommodation options for guests.

Entertainment: A Key Ingredient for a Memorable Wedding

Entertainment plays a pivotal role in creating an unforgettable wedding experience. According to our survey:

75% of respondents believe entertainment is essential, with a live band or DJ being the preferred options.

Other popular entertainment choices include caricaturists, hypnotists, and more, adding a unique touch to the festivities.

When it comes to live music, the preferences are clear:

• Wedding Band: A traditional favourite that never fails to get guests on their feet.
• Interactive Band: Engaging and lively, these bands create a dynamic atmosphere.
• Rock Band: For those who want to add a bit of edge to their celebration.

Enhancing the Wedding Experience: The Top 5 Elements

Our respondents identified five key elements that significantly enhance the overall wedding experience:

1. Food & Drinks: Exceptional cuisine and beverages are non-negotiable for a memorable celebration.
2. Live Band: Music is the soul of the party, and a live band brings energy and joy to the occasion.
3. Venue Location: The setting of the wedding is crucial in creating the right ambiance.
4. After-Dinner Entertainment: Keeping the energy alive after dinner with engaging entertainment is a must.
5. Wine with Dinner: Fine wine elevates the dining experience, making it a highlight of the evening.

Day 2 Event: Keeping the Celebration Going

For couples planning a "Day 2" event, these are the most popular options:

1. Live Music, Finger Food, and Drinks: A relaxed yet lively continuation of the festivities.
2. BBQ: A casual and fun way to gather everyone together once more.
3. A Few Quiet Drinks: Perfect for winding down and reflecting on the previous day's joy.

Top Priorities for Couples Planning Their Wedding

Finally, respondents who are either married or currently planning their wedding shared the most important aspects to consider:

Quality of Food and Beverages

Venue Location

Accommodation Options

Guest Experiences

Type of Entertainment

Inclusive Packages

Most Unique and Memorable Wedding Experiences

We also asked our respondents to share the most unique and memorable wedding experiences they’ve had, and the answers were as varied as they were inspiring:

• Celebrity Surprises: One lucky bride had Gary Barlow surprise her on her wedding day, and another had Westlife, creating star-studded memories that will last a lifetime.
• Themed Weddings: From a 1970s themed celebration with retro outfits and entertainment to a Pirates of the Caribbean event, themed weddings left a lasting impression.
• Singing Waiters and Chefs: Several guests loved the surprise of waiters and chefs breaking into song, adding a fun twist to the meal.
• Unexpected Performances: Guests were wowed by impromptu performances, including Riverdance routines and even an Elvis impersonator.
• Interactive Entertainment: From table quizzes between courses to magicians and caricaturists, these interactive elements were a hit, helping to bond guests and create a lively atmosphere.
• Unique Venues: Some of the most memorable weddings took place in unusual settings, such as a vineyard, a cave on a private beach in Thailand, or a theme park in Oregon.
• Special Touches: Personal touches, like decorations unique to the couple, and special appearances by beloved pets, made weddings feel intimate and special.

These one-of-a-kind experiences show that creativity and personalization are key to making a wedding truly unforgettable. Whether it’s through unique entertainment, a surprising venue, or personal touches that reflect the couple’s story, these elements leave a lasting impression on guests and make the day all the more special. As you plan your wedding, consider incorporating some of these ideas to create a day that’s not only beautiful but also deeply memorable for everyone involved.

To discover how Lawlor's of Naas can bring your dream wedding to life and craft an unforgettable celebration, get in touch with our wedding team at weddings@lawlors.ie or simply fill out our online wedding enquiry form. We're here to make your special day truly magical!