A survey has found the most popular days to get married in Ireland - and they're not what we expected.

The Wedding and Honeymoon Show's survey explored wedding trends across Ireland. And although many traditions remain the same, the survey revealed an emerging trend for the savvy brides who are wanting more for less, by getting married on a weekday. While a Saturday wedding is still proving pretty popular popular (40 per cent), saying ‘I do’ on a Thursday is on the rise (14 per cent), as is a Friday wedding at 33 per cent. The survey also revealed the power that social media now plays in the led-up to a wedding day, with 42 per cent of brides admitting to including something on their special day as a result of seeing it online. It also found how there is a massive rise in the number of people considering sustainability/the environment when it comes time to plan their wedding. 43 per cent of those surveyed said they  took eco credentials into consideration when booking a supplier, and opting for ‘DIY’ or reused decorations, favours and flowers. And it seems like newlyweds are moving further and further away from wanting the traditional gifts, with 87 per cent of couples preferring cash as a wedding gift. Choosing who stands by your side on your wedding day is a key component of the wedding experience, with 7 per cent of couples branching out from conventional tradition by inviting their furry friends to be part of their wedding party. Sara Kennedy, Wedding Blogger from the Irish Wedding Blog and host of the ‘I Do’ School, an interactive and innovative highlight at the Wedding and Honeymoon Show said:

“Weddings in 2019 are showcasing more personality and attention to detail than ever before. "Couples are rethinking conventional traditions and putting their own creative spins on long-standing wedding moments, like bringing their pet along to celebrate, or asking for cash instead of a gift.  “These trends are only set to increase, as couples become more financially independent and are rising to the challenge exercising their ability to be creative, motivated by things like local sourcing, ethical production and a great authentic experience.”

The findings from the survey come ahead of the Wedding and Honeymoon Show which will open its doors this weekend – September 7 and 8, 2019 - welcoming thousands of couples across the two days. Taking place at the RDS, the show will be home to more than 150 wedding suppliers all gathered under one roof. Tickets cost €15 and can be purchased at the door. For more information visit www.wed.ie or check out @WEDDublin on social.