Convalidation (Catholic Church Blessing) Ireland

[Sweethtooth 0]

Hi all, 

 

My fiancee and I are both Irish but one of us is an American Citizen.  We are going to get married in a civil ceremony over here for purposes of security and legality etc. Although we are not incredibly religious we were raised in catholic homes , I do have some faith and my fiancees' friend is actually a priest back home (so would like him to bless us). We would have liked a "traditional" ceremony but hey, you gotta deal with what life throws at you. So, my point is I would like some recognition by the catholic church back home. We are getting married here and would like to return to Ireland in a year or so for a Convalidation (I think that is different to a blessing, forgive me if I am wrong). I suppose I am looking for some help and feedback. Also, to generate discussion with people who have been in my shoes and to see what you guys did. 

 

I am going to be open with the fact that we will be married. I know a lot of people of here get married, pretend they are not, and then have the whole huge ceremony again.  I can't do that, I do however want a convalidation as I mentioned but I won't be walking down any aisle in a gown. I personally would feel stupid doing that knowing that we are married already, I will wear white of some sorts though!  So, I  would like to hear how you did it?, where you did it?, how long after your civil ceremony? How many people did you invite? Did you regret doing it that way? Is it different to getting married the traditional way (with regard to paperwork etc).

 

I'm looking forward to hearing from you all :-)