The Complete Cost Guide to Barn Weddings in Ireland
The rolling green hills in the heart of Ireland's lush countryside are the perfect backdrop for a memorable occasion – so it comes as no surprise that as couples are increasingly drawn to the rustic charm and pastoral elegance of these venues, barn weddings, once considered a novelty, are fast becoming the top wedding trend in Ireland. What’s more, there’s plenty of ways to make them feel personal. From quaint farmsteads to renovated historic barns, the options are as diverse as they are enchanting.
But what does the average barn wedding cost – what does it take to turn these dreams into reality?
As with any wedding, the cost of hosting a barn wedding in Ireland is influenced by a myriad of factors. Location plays a pivotal role, with venues nestled in more remote, idyllic rural settings often commanding higher prices. Additionally, the time of year and day of the week can significantly impact costs, with peak seasons (think the height of summer: June, July and August) and weekends typically carrying a premium.
Breaking Down the Costs
Venue hire fees constitute a substantial portion of the cost of a barn wedding, and can range from modest to extravagant, depending on the chosen location. Segrave Barns and The Village Barn are two notable venues, and each offers unique packages tailored to suit varying budgets and preferences.
As a rough guide, for instance, The Village Barn costs between €550 and €1300 to hire, which includes exclusive use of the venue and the grounds on the day of your wedding. However, it’s crucial to note that this does not include any extras: everything from catering and décor to entertainment, photography, and accommodation for the bridal party will be additional. The Village Barn estimates that the additional charges per wedding guest is approximately €69 to €100; in other words, if you’re planning to host 100 guests (which is entirely possible: The Village Barn can comfortably hold up to 180 guests in the main barn), you should budget for an extra €10,000 for food and beverage alone.
Clearly, the numbers add up quickly (as they do for any wedding), and don’t forget to add on décor and styling expenses, as well as entertainment and photography, too. Sure, the charm of a rustic, antique barn will set a magical atmosphere, but you’re likely to want to supplement with some florals, twinkling fairy lights, and perhaps a band or some live music, too.
Cost-Saving Tips
For couples seeking to maximise their budget without compromising on quality, a few savvy strategies can make all the difference. Off-peak season discounts and mid-week wedding advantages offer substantial savings, while embracing the DIY ethos can lend a personal touch to décor while keeping costs in check.
Of course, it also goes without saying – but the more guests you have, the more you’ll need to spend ensuring they’re all well fed and watered. If you’re looking for ways to reduce numbers, you can consider making your wedding an adults-only occasion (at The Village Barn, teenagers are still priced at €45 each and children between the ages of 5 and 12 are €25; only children under 5 are free).
Lastly, if the barn you’re looking at is particularly remote, you will likely end up spending extra on travel, fuel and accommodation – and that’s the case whether or not you’re covering these costs for your guests. Consider looking into barns that are slightly easier from a geographical perspective – the quicker the barn is to get to, the less you’ll have to factor in extra costs when it comes to your overall wedding budget.
Balancing Dreams and Budgets
Ultimately, the key to planning a barn wedding in Ireland lies in striking a harmonious balance between dreams and budgets. While it's tempting to get swept away by visions of grandeur, keeping practical considerations in mind will help you ensure your big day is as financially viable as it is emotionally fulfilling.
Secured your barn wedding venue? Now you can turn your attention to your wedding ensemble! Once you’ve chosen your dress, finish off your look with Jules Bridal’s selection of sparkling jewellery and statement hair accessories.
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