The number of marriages is back to pre-pandemic levels, CSO data has revealed. 

In 2022, 23,173 couples tied the knot - a 143% increase on 2020 when only 9,523 marriages were held.

“In 2021, we only had 17,000 weddings so it had dropped down dramatically,” One Fab Day editor Jess O’Sullivan said. 

“So, it’s nice to see it back up again.” 

A bride and groom kissing in a forest. Image: Westend61 GmbH / Alamy

The most popular day to wed is Friday and July is the most popular month - with January the least booked time. 

“I really feel that that might be to do with the fact that a lot of people started booking what we call ‘revenge weddings’,” Ms O’Sullivan said. 

“They went really, really big on their wedding celebration - which could be a two or three day celebration. 

“So, naturally, if you’re going for that kind of blow out event, you’re going to want to have your wedding on the Friday, maybe a big day too on the Saturday and then maybe a smaller family event on the Sunday. 

“So, I imagine that that’s why the Fridays have proven so popular.” 

 Nearly two-thirds, 64%, of marriage ceremonies in 2022 were religious, while the remaining 26% were civil ceremonies.

Main image: A couple cutting their wedding cake at their wedding reception. Picture by: Alamy.com