Pósadh and Bainis: Guide to the Traditional Irish Wedding

Rating:
Summary: Lots of fun stuff - but "definitive"? Definitely not!
Review: Amazing how many books are coming out on Irish weddings. As a consultant specializing in Celtic celebrations, I have the dubious honor of buying or borrowing whatever books come out that focus on important events in the Celtic life. This one came to my attention while browsing the internet. It purports to be "the definitive resource", but it's simply a compilation of material that anyone can get if they visit their local library. These days, engaged couples are usually so busy, they need sound, practical advice that will save them time, aggravation, and possibly a few bucks into the bargain. The idea of trying to recreate a hands-on, hand-made "village/peasant style" celebration that other reviewers are raving about is totally out of touch with reality. From my own experience, what engaged couples want is something that will make the planning process easier, while also incoporating appropriate ethnic details. There's lots of fun stuff to read here, but "definitive", it is definitely not.

Rating:
Summary: Much more than Hints- Great instructions and guide-No better
Review: I have read several books which claim to be about Traditional Irish weddings. None is as complete as this one. My son's wedding was perfectly planned (according to several guests from Ireland as well as the older generation in attendance) and all we used was this one book. Where else can you learn how to dress up like a straw boy? We had a few of the local guys do it and it was spectacular. People could not believe what they were seeing- the illustrations in the book are perfect. We also wanted real music and not cds. We came up with a bluegrass fiddler and a banjo player. They did not know any of the songs until we gave them the book. In an hour or so we had a great selection of live music- the lyrics and the music are all there. Then came the food which was lovely. Compliments all around. The younger kids had a great time with the authentic games. The bride was even properly stolen away! I highly recommend this book for anyone planing an Irish Traditional wedding- start here and then go on to some of the more popular commercial style ones which seem to be nothing more than advertizing for shops. We found all the ingredients for our wedding in this book without having to go too much outside of the family circle- the way it should be in the tradition! Put the village to work! Jamie

Rating:
Summary: Review of book
Review: This book was highly informative about Irish wedding customs, but I was looking for more of "hints" of what to do for a traditional wedding, not why these traditions are in place. It wasn't the type of book I was looking for in wedding planning.