Analysis of the latest Central Statistics Office marriage data reveals opportunities for hoteliers beyond national headlines of declining weddings and an older average age. Weddings are concentrating in cities and scenic counties such as Cork and Dublin, with the peak couple age band remaining 30 to 34.
Civil ceremonies now lead nationally but Catholic ceremonies remain dominant outside Leinster, pointing to the need for venues to adapt to regional ceremony preferences and offer flexibility.
While August remains the peak Marriages 2025 and Friday the most popular day Marriages 2024, there is a growing demand for midweek, off-peak and unconventional dates.
December 30 and 31 are now major wedding dates, and winter weddings are booming Humanist and civil ceremonies represent a huge growth area, with Humanist ceremonies up 68% over the decade. Hoteliers can capture these couples by offering dedicated indoor and outdoor venue spaces for on-site solemnisation.
The average age of couples marrying is rising, 38 for men and 36 for women. Older couples typically command higher disposable incomes, providing a lucrative opportunity to upsell premium food, beverage, and exclusive-use packages.
Older, affluent couples are more likely to treat weddings as multi-day experiences, driving demand for pre-wedding dinners, post-wedding brunches, and local spa or activity bookings.
