IRISH
SpRIng 2019
DIARY
Your Complete Guide to Getting Married in Ireland
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Wedding dresses
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LO VE CELEBRATE
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W W W. PA L O M A B L A N C A . C O M • M A D E W I T H L V E I N C A N A D A
Irish Wedding
DIARY
Spring 2019
Welcome Hello everyone and welcome once again to another issue of Ireland’s best-loved and top-selling bridal magazine. Well, first off let’s give a huge congratulations to all you 2019 brides out there; your big year has finally arrived. Most of you will have thought the day would never come, but the best day of your life is approaching fast and you’d better be ready. It’s going to be a hectic year but also an immensely important and enjoyable one. This year will be forever etched into your memory as one you’ll treasure for the rest of your life. So, where are you in the planning stage? Are you ticking off the final few things on your list, or are you panicking, realising you’ve so much to do and so little time to do it in? Most of you will be somewhere in between but wherever you are on your wedding journey you’ll find something inside this issue to point you in the right direction. If you’re a 2020, 2021 bride or even later, you can relax a bit as you flick through the magazine and dream of your big day and we trust you’ll find inspiration inside these pages to help you plan your dream day… If however you’re looking for that dream dress, we have a fantastic collection of dresses from some of Ireland’s leading dress designers, the best bridal boutiques from north to south, east and west, and a whole host of internationally acclaimed wedding labels from New York, Australia, Milan, London and Tallaght. Finding your dream wedding dress really does start here. Every bride wants their wedding to be unique and inside this issue we’ve got plenty of quirky ideas to get you thinking differently. Everyone knows that weddings are expensive, so in this issue we’ve taken a look at ways to budget for your wedding without getting into massive debt, and we’ve also looked at the pros and cons of getting married abroad. We’ve got plenty of ideas for your gift registry list plus a bumper crop of outfits for the mother of the bride and grooms and occasion wear for guests, too. Honeymoons are the one part of the wedding which is truly just about the couple, and is often an afterthought, but it’s how you’ll start married life together. With that in mind, we have put together a great selection of honeymoon ideas for you to dream about. If you’re planning a
Cover Dress by Paloma Blanca www.palomablanca.com
wedding abroad you’ll find plenty of ideas for the dream destination wedding.
Publisher: IrishWeddingDiary.ie Ltd.
some wonderful ideas between the covers of this issue. We’ve got soloists and rock bands to
Advertising: Paul Collins, Sales Director 01-498 3255 paulc@irishweddingdiary.ie Vivian Flynn, Sales Director 01-498 3242 vivian@irishweddingdiary.ie Creative Director: Paul McCormack: 01-498 3211 paulm@irishweddingdiary.ie Editor: Andrea Hayes Email: Andrea@irishweddingdiary.ie Editorial Assistant: Alex Joyce Alex@irishweddingdiary.ie
We haven’t forgotten the little extras that will help to make your wedding unique and we have set the tone, photographers to capture the event, outfits for the men and everything you will need to make your day perfect. We have a gift section with some lovely pieces that you can put on your gift registry list or just go out and treat yourself. Don’t forget our great app where you can get the entire magazine, just as you see it here on your IOS and Android device. You can pop it in your pocket and check it out on your commute to work or when sipping coffee. Just search the App Store for Irish Wedding Diary and download the app for free. If you like what you see you can get a yearly subscription for less than €10. So sit back relax and read as we’ve got your every wedding need covered... Happy Planning!
Press Releases to: Alex@irishweddingdiary.ie or Rear 177 Rathgar Road, Rathmines, Dublin 6. Photography: Thomas Sunderland, White Amber Photography Contributors: Andrea Hayes, Editor Elaine Hession Alex Joyce Peter Cole Marcus Stewart Claudia Gocoul
Design: Outline Graphics. www.outline.ie
Andrea Hayes
Irish Wedding Diary, Rear 177 Rathgar Road, Rathmines, Dublin 6, Ireland. Advertising: 01-498 3255 / 01-498 3242. Email: info@irishweddingdiary.ie. Website: www.irishweddingdiary.ie Copyright: Irish Wedding Diary.ie Ltd. The entire contents of the Irish Wedding Diary are copyright and may not be reproduced in any form without the written permission of the Publishers. Notice to advertisers; the proprietor does not accept any liability for any loss occasioned by the fact that the advertisement does not appear on any specified day or at all or for any loss or damage claimed to be caused by an error or inaccuracy in the printing and publication of any advertisement.
6 I IWD Contents I Spring 2019
www.irishweddingdiary.ie
Collection 2019 Find authorized retailers at: www.airebarcelona.com
BrIDe e of the Year shoW hoW hoW
34 CONTENTS ONTENTS
16
16 26
QuIrkY’ Y Y’ WeDDInGs s
WeDDInG G travel ravel
118
2019 BrIDal al ons ColleCtIons
90 CaBra ra Castle Photoshoot
WeDDInG G venues enues
Competitions Preview of the Bride of the Year Show 2019 Spring Fashion Wedding Beauty
58
Weight Watchers Wedding Weight Loss
60
60
2019 Wedding Dress Collections
70
Wedding Gifts
90
Clanard Court Hotel Bridal Photoshoot
108
Grooms Room
106
Wedding Budgeting
118
Something Different Quirky Wedding Ideas
140
154
8 I IWD Contents I Spring 2019
Wedding Diary News
126
108 Grooms’ room oom
ClanarD Court Photoshoot
42 50
mother other of the BrID BrIDe IDe
70
34
WeDDInG nG GIfts fts
sPrInG nG on fashIon
health alth & BeautY Beaut
42
50
WeDDInG G neWs s
184
126 138 140
Outfits for Mothers of the Bride and Groom IWD Wedding Awards 2019 Cabra Castle Bridal Photoshoot
154
Wedding Travel: Honeymoons and Weddings Abroad
184
Ireland’s Leading Wedding Venues
Collection 2019 Find authorized retailers at: www.lunanovias.com
W W W. M I K A E L L A B R I D A L . C O M • M A D E W I T H L V E I N C A N A D A
stellayork.com 6758 6758
essensedesigns.com essensedesigns.com
D2597 D2597
Style 1786
Kenneth Wi nston k e n n e t h w i n s t o n . c o m
Style 1808
k e n n e t h w i n s t o n . c o m
winter
Whimsical
Weddings
DiaryNews
Ring
Wow Up Your
Want to add extra sparkle to your engagement ring? Christopher Murphy Jewellers have an exciting and innovative way to update and give new life to your engagement ring while still keeping your cherished sentimental value. Add a halo of glistening diamonds around your centre stone or along the band for the ultimate glamorous look, as adding extra diamonds will always enhance and add radiance to any ring.
There’s nothing cosier than a lovefilled wedding day spent with friends at Christmas at The Millh ouse in Slane. A truly romantic and intimate party, offering luxur ious settees in front of big log fires for you and your guests to relax and enjoy for the whole day. On the banks of the River Boyn e you can make this stunning, fifteen-bedroom manor house your own exclusive country home for your special day. Bless ings and ceremonies are held in the Mill Ceremony Room, a unique setting full of character with original brick work, exposed beams, chandeliers and rustic charm. A romantic haven in a wond erful garden location just 40 minutes from Dublin, this venu e allows complete exclusivity for your wedding day. The Millhouse combines old-world charm and contemporary design to create a unique, luxurious wedding venue. To arrange a viewing appointment, email them at information@themillhouse.ie or call 041 9820878. www.themillhouse.ie
Curve Super
Since Dreamy Curves launched in Bray in June 2018, brides have been coming from all over Ireland to check out the launch collections in both bridal and bridesmaid dresses. Their experience has been a personal one in terms of Dreamy Curves’ salon service as well as availing themselves of a huge choice of dresses in sizes up to Size 32. Dreamy Curves have added to their designer collections this autumn, and now stock Maggie Sottero, Rebecca Ingram, White Rose, Nicole and Lou Lou in addition to their existing designer offerings from Veromia Sonsie, Romantica Silhoutte, Callista and Watters Wtoo. They have also recently started stocking a fantastic shapewear range from Irish company Atir, to add that extra support when it’s needed. It’s a one-stop bridal experience at Dreamy Curves, with shoes from Rainbow Club and Lexus and beautiful hairpieces and veils also on offer. www.dreamycurves.ie Tel: 01 2765500
16 I IWD I Wedding Diary News
There are many redesign options and ideas available with prices from €500. So now you can make your engagement ring look bigger and brighter at a very reasonable cost. From a simple upgrade to a total remodel of your ring.. .the choices are endless at Christopher Murphy Jewellers. For more information on how to Wow Up Your Ring, visit their website www.cmjewellers.com/wow-up-your-ring/ To make an appointment, call them on 01 8426197 or email Christopher on chris@cmjewellers.com.
mi Nao
www.mon-cheri.co.uk
IWDiarySpring_MonCheri_Page.indd 1
22/11/2018 21:04
DiaryNews
Celebrations
A year of
Stylish Brides are delighted h brides for over 60 years, Marians, Boyle, dressing stylis for 2019. ction colle l brida their ners to to be adding fabulous new desig essional knowledgeable stylists and prof Marians are renowned for their e with rienc expe and enjoyable shopping service creating a personalized htsoug t mos ld’s wor the ding dresses from an extensive collection of wed y you orar emp cont and ic class to vintage after designers. From modern, ovski crystals, ding hand beading with Swar will find beautiful gowns inclu
silk chiffon, Mikado silks. A you book e to we strongly recommend must visit boutique for any Brid ctions. colle new their see to 031 071 9662 a one to one consultation on www.marians.ie
12is12 - a year of celebration at The Twelve 2019 will be a very special year for The Twelve as it’s the year that the hotel celebrates its 12th birthday – the year 12is12. As they never like to do things by halves (or half dozens), rather than have one big shindig on the date that the hotel opened its doors for business for the very first time, instead they are going to spend the entire year – twelve whole months! – celebrating 12is12. There will be parties and pop-ups, festivals and fabulous food. They’ll be praising their producers, putting their amazing staff front and centre, counting their blessings and blessing their counters with exciting new 12is12 birthday brews and brilliant 12is12 pizzas and cocktails. Their friends upstairs in West will be wowing them with new dishes, and they’ll have some niche events and fun times where they can flash a little of their expertise and their pleasure in minding people that has made them an award-winning hotel with a very big heart. Hope you can join the party! #12is12 thetwelvehotel.ie • westrestaurant.ie
Chalet Beauty
The Hair and Beauty Chalet recently celebrated ten years in business winning many awards along the way. With vast experience in the hair and beauty industry, providing wedding hair and makeup has always been a wonderful part of their work.They offer the bride the chance to relax in her own home or hotel on the morning of her wedding while they look after the hair and makeup creations for the complete bridal party. Prior to the big day they also provide an extensive range of treatments including hair colouring and styling, Skinician facials and massage, He Shi spray tan, NSI gel/acrylic nails, Gelicure three-week polish and semi-permanent Hollywood Lashes. Visit www.thehairandbeautychalet.com or Facebook: The Hair & Beauty Chalet.
18 I IWD I Wedding Diary News
Email: thehairandbeautychalet@gmail.com Tel: 059 9158795.
RDS , 2 6 - 27 JA NUARY 2 01 9
Everyone’s a VIP at our Wedding fair.
Bring your whole wedding party to The Bride of The Year Show @ the RDS. - Meet over 170 exhibitors - Be inspired by the legendary Catwalk Shows - Drop into the ‘I Do School’ for those essential tips and trends - Relax at our new Afternoon Tea Rooms
Tick brid ets on sa eoft hey le now ears how at .ie
- Get your nails done at our new show Nail Bar
Organised by Eventhaus on behalf of Terry Burns Wedding Exhibitions Ltd
Wow
DiaryNews Your Guests
Love of Dogs For The
Why not #PawsForThought if you are
considering buying a puppy. The Dogs Trust would love if you could consider a rescue dog #AdoptDontShop. They would always advise you to get some advice first or you could also take some time to read ‘Dog Tales with Andrea Hayes’, which is a ‘pawsome’ read! This lovely book is about rescue dogs who rescued their owners right back! It contains 13 heart-warming stories of dogs that have been given a second chance at happiness, and of the dedicated owners who found a WOW comprises of four experienced musicians who have come together to form the ultimate wedding band. Between them, their members have played every major venue in Ireland from the 3arena in Dublin to the SSE arena in Belfast. WOW is a unique, fully costumed party band experience. Starting your night off with a selection of swing music dressed and performed in the style of The Rat Pack, then seamlessly changing costume for classic party hits. Then once again, a slick transition into iconic 80s attire before it’s time for the 90s. The final part of the show is filled with current floor fillers, keeping your night and the dance floor hopping till the wee hours! ‘WOW played the @TwitterDublin Christmas party this year and to say they were a hit is an understatement. We didn’t want you to stop playing on the night!’ Shona O’Toole – Twitter. See www.facebook.com/wowpartyband Tel: 087 9831232 or email wowpartyband@gmail.com.
place in their hearts and homes for the abandoned animals. It could be the perfect gift for the dog lover in your life; and a percentage of the sales go directly to Dogs Trust Ireland when you buy from their online store at www.dogstrust.ie. Dogs Trust is Ireland’s largest dog welfare charity. Their mission is to bring an end to the destruction of stray and abandoned dogs in Ireland. Would you consider including your furry four legged canine friend in your wedding celebrations? You can support Dogs Trust Ireland and include them in your special day with their unique and beautifully designed Dogs Trust donation card keepsakes, which are a fantastic and popular alternative to traditional wedding favours! You’d be barking mad not to check out page 206 to find out more.
Redesign Exciting
The Four-Star Riverside Park Hotel and Leisure Club at Enniscorthy are delighted to announce the exciting redesign and renovation of the ever-popular Hilton Edwards Ballroom. With a substantial investment, The Hilton Edwards Ballroom has been completely transformed into one of the most luxurious ballrooms in the Southeast. The windows have all been replaced with floor-to-ceiling tinted glass, inviting the beautiful countryside scenery into the ballroom. Wedding couples and their guests will now be able to sit back and enjoy views of the beautiful River Slaney flowing by. The ballroom has been remodelled and redesigned to give a completely new and lavish setting for weddings, conferences and banqueting events. The design has introduced a mood-lit ceiling, with over 60 colours to choose from – and the new chandeliers catch the mood-lit ceiling perfectly, giving every event a completely different ambiance. The hotel is introducing new gold Chiavari chairs that will exquisitely complement the rich, warm golden colours of the design. The ballroom lobby has been transformed, the walls have been raised and a skylight added, and the golden wallpaper and decorative chairs transform this area into comfortable and opulent perfection for your guests to
22 I IWD I Wedding Diary News
mingle in before your banquet. Email: www.riversideparkhotel.ie. Tel: 053 923 7800
La Bella Sposa Bridal 58A North Street, Swords, Co Dublin Tel: 01 8075712 Website: www.labellasposa.ie Email: info@labellasposa.ie Facebook: www.facebook.com/labellasposabridal
V I C T O R I A K AY DE S I GN ER
B RI D A L
W EA R
W W W . V I C T O R I A K A Y . C O . U K
SPRING / SUMMER 2019 Ivory wedding shoes now including complimentary colour customisation for brides and wedding guests by the UK’s leading colour experts.
rainbowclub.co.uk
Irish Wedding Diary Making Waves.indd 1
26/11/2018 13:19
Marian Gale D4 Quality, Service and Exclusivity
Brides, Black Tie, Bridesmaids
Please phone for an appointment. 8 The Mall, Donnybrook, Dublin 4. Tel: 01 269 7460 www.mariangale.ie Dress : Matilda â‚Ź1699
Ukulele Trio
DiaryNews
Ukebox is a ukulele trio
made up of three of the most reputable musi-
cians in Ireland who play and harmonise together like nobody else. This unique idea will bring something extra special to your day. Ukebox can dress in Hawaiian attire to bring fun and sunshine to your special day or can dress formally in suits for the more formal events. Ukebox can tailor a set to suit ceremony music, or a more upbeat set for drinks receptions or corporate events. They also enjoy walking from table to table singing and taking requests! Ukebox are available for events all over Ireland. See www.facebook.com/ukeboxmusic Tel: 087 9831232 or email ukeboxmusic@gmail.com
Midlands Heart of
Life’s
Journal
the
Congratulations from all at IWD to our editor, Andrea Hayes, who has just released her fourth book, ‘Mind Body Soul Journal’ which is a follow up to her bestselling ‘My Life Goals Journal’. The good news is that her new book is just in time for 2019. If you want to live your best life in 2019 then
this book is for you, or maybe it could be the perfect thank you gift idea for your special gal pals who are your bridesmaids.
Say ‘I do’ at the newly refurbished four-star wedding venue in the heart of the
This timeless journal, beautifully illustrated with
midlands: the all new Midlands Park Hotel.
pages for monthly journaling, is an indispensable
The all new four-star Midlands Park Hotel invites you to view their newly designed
companion if you want to live a more focused,
ballroom, bedrooms and suites. An investment of €7 million over the past year and
positive life in 2019.
half has transformed this property into a very sought after wedding venue in the heart
And if you don’t believe us just look at what people
of the midlands. Nestled in the heart of Portlaoise town, the sophisticated urban
are saying about this beautiful journal.
setting is the perfect location for your wedding day.
Venue Breathtaking
From the moment you arrive, the striking entrance creates an impressive sense of
Praise for Mind, Body, Soul Journal ‘Set a satnav for your life by following this practical journal and unleash the best version of you.’ Norah Casey ‘Lovely book … a spiritual Filofax.’ Patrick Bergin. ‘Full of positivity and inspiration, this book is a tonic – I loved it.’ Alan Hughes ‘This book will make anybody’s life journey easy and joyful. I absolutely recommend it. It’s a book for everyone to help them on their journey.’ Helen Goldin ‘The most astonishingly uplifting work I’ve read all year! This isn’t just a book to read, it’s a bible to live your best life by.’ Claudia Carroll ‘Finally! A blueprint for creating the life you want in this powerful and authentic spiritual guidebook.You will pick it up, put it down, and pick it up again and again.’ Paul Congdon, editor of Positive Life Well done Andrea.
space and classic modern elegance. Immerse yourself in the luxury of the newly renovated ballroom with its natural lighting, lavish décor, mood-lit ceiling, and fairy-lit backdrop. Our brand new Chiavari chairs complete the opulent style and feel of our glamorous ballroom; they are the perfect finishing touch. The conservatory has been transformed into a luxurious outside space perfect for pre-wedding reception drinks. A magnificent, opulent bridal suite has just been completed with a luxurious round eight-foot bed, walk-in wardrobe, double shower unit overlooking the bedroom, jacuzzi bath with TV, and a lavish reception room with a further four suites beside the bridal suite in their own exclusive wing – just perfect for your entire wedding party. The hotel offers a choice of banqueting suites catering for up to 350 guests. Complimentary Civil Ceremony Suites are also available for up to 200 guests. Ideally located only an hour from Dublin and less than an hour and half from Cork, Limerick and Galway, the new Midlands Park Hotel is the ideal location for your wedding. Luxury in the heart of the midlands
28 I IWD I Wedding Diary News
www.midlandsparkhotel.com Tel: 057-867 8588
A N N E K C M
W W W. S O P H I AT O L L I . C O . U K
IWDiarySpring_SophiaTolli_Page.indd 1
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Glasnevin
Bridal Corner
Happy New Year
01-8600140 info@bridalcorner.ie
Opening Hours Mon-Sat 9.30 -5.30 • Sunday 11-4 Jan
FABULOUS NEW 2019 COLLECTIONS.
ALLUREBRIDALS.COM
Bride of the Year Show 2019 Main Hall, RDS Saturday 26th & Sunday 27th January 2019 11am – 5pm www.brideoftheyearshow.ie
our Make Y ing Wedd m a e r D t The a y t i l a Rea e Year h t f o Bride 2019 Show
Save The Date The Bride of the Year Show returns to the RDS, Dublin on Saturday 26 and Sunday 27 January 2019, and is THE ultimate destination for brides and grooms in the midst of planning their dream day. Whether traditional, quirky, vintage or themed, there will be something to suit every wedding.
No matter what
Set to wow even more
your
brides and grooms, the two-
is,
taking you or who you are
place to plan and perfect your special day; from inspiration for your dream dress, the
walking up the aisle with, The Bride of the
photographer who can capture the perfect shot
Year Show welcomes everyone on the wedding
to evening entertainment that will make you
planning journey.
dance the night away! With leading wedding exhibitors in attendance, covering
all
aspects
of
planning
your
wedding, the Bride of the Year Show is one that all engaged couples look forward to and remember! As you browse the stunning styles, sample delicious cakes and check out idyllic venue ideas, you will get to meet leading Irish wedding professionals, wedding planners from home and abroad and destination specialists.
34 I IWD Preview I Bride of the Year Show
budget
where your ideas are
day extravaganza is the ideal
It is the only Wedding Show you need!
planning, the show will not only save you
ideas you need to achieve your dream wedding-
New For 2019!
time but also money, as many exhibitors have
day look, pairing beautiful dresses
Bursting with wedding inspiration, The Bride of
exclusive show-only offers and discounts.
with on-trend hair and makeup looks, plus beautiful
the Year Show is the ultimate day out, where you can buy and book everything you need to make
Anyone currently planning their big day can take
accessory
your dream wedding a reality. Your visit will be
advantage of talking and exchanging ideas with
well as bridal wear,
packed with inspiration and creative ideas from
the professionals, who really do make wedding
the
over 150 of the finest wedding suppliers, and
dreams come true. Whether you are planning a
the latest bridesmaid
our programme of features will ensure every
low-key, intimate day or an all-out glamorous
dresses,
detail of your wedding is fine-tuned.
party, the talented and professional exhibitors
wear, mother-of-the-
are sure to help you on your way to your dream
bride outfits and suits
day!
for the groom.
New features include: •
ideas.
shows
feature occasion-
Cupcakes and treats galore with Afternoon
•
Get pampered at the deluxe Nail Bar
Sun, Sand and Sea – Say ‘I Do’ Abroad!
•
Book a free seat at the ‘I Do’ School,
At The Bride of the Year Show, destination
and
hosted by Sara Kennedy, Irish Wedding
weddings are a speciality!
surprises along
Tea
With
music,
dance
the
Blog, a must see for all soon-to-be brides,
•
As
moves a
way,
few the
bridesmaids and mothers of the bride
Find everything for your perfect wedding abroad
Catwalk
Shows
Visit the Something New, Something Blue
from our selection of knowledgeable wedding
are sure to help
Village, home to all the trinkets and treats
experts, from key locations across the world
you say ‘I do’ in the
you need to make your day sparkle
all under one roof at Ireland’s largest spring
right dress for you!
wedding showcase. For those hoping to have their wedding abroad,
The ultimate destination for wedding inspiration
whether it is on the beautiful shores of Lake
With everything you need to plan your special
Garda, or overlooking an enchanting Spanish
day all under one roof, The Bride of the Year
monastery, you will meet wedding specialists
Show is not to be missed! It takes place in the
from the best locations in Europe, Asia, Africa,
Main Hall of the RDS, Dublin on Saturday 26 and
America, the Caribbean and beyond. Our
Sunday 27 January 2019.
industry experts will be on hand to provide
For more information, or to book tickets, visit
advice, inspiration and money-saving tips, so
www.brideoftheyearshow.ie
you can plan your dream wedding with ease and excitement!
Save Time & Money! opportunity to meet with a range of leading
Watch the latest bridal trends come to life
wedding specialists, all under one roof, who
Our spectacular Catwalk Shows present a variety
will be on hand to offer invaluable advice and
of stunning gowns for every style and budget –
inspiration for your special day.
helping you to ‘Say Yes!’ to your dream dress.
Everything you need, want and dream of for
An integral part of The Bride of the Year Show,
your special day can be booked on the one
and taking place at 12:30 and 3:30 p.m. daily,
day. Helping to take the stress out of wedding
the Catwalk Shows will inspire you with all the
The Bride of the Year Show gives you the
be Not to
missed
n Show eymoo n o H ! & edding er 2019 The W eptemb S in els ning chann e retur social will b r u o n out o prize n eye ws and e Keep a n , s ate w upd ie for sho WED. s-@ y a w a give
The Bride Of The Year Show is organised by Eventhaus Ltd. on behalf of Terry Burns Wedding Exhibitions Ltd.
Bride of the Year Show I IWD Preview I 35
Weddings DiaryNews Waterside
Entertainment Five Star
The Looks Band make it
The Four-Star Salthill Hotel is the leading wedding waterside venue in the West of Ireland, with a 4 star wedding service. Offering all inclusive wedding packages starting from only €58 per person, with tailored bespoke packages also available. The Salthill Hotel is located only 32 steps from the stunning Salthill Promenade, the perfect backdrop, teamed with a top class service. Wedding Coordinator Hazel Hodgins and her wedding team are specialists in making your dream day a reality, Engage with Hazel today and book your wedding appointment Call 091 522711 or email weddings@salthillhotel.com
simple for you to make the right choice.With high ene rgy, live music, the r Ireland with professiona l musicians, an extensive set list and impressive sound and lighting. The group are dedicated wed ding band entertainment what it takes to put on specialists and know the perfect show for non -stop dancing. Music from 60s, 70s and 80s like The classic bands of the Beatles, Queen and Jour ney, while contemporary such as Bruno Marrs, Ade music from artists le and Taylor Swift keep the dancefloor full from last. The Looks Band can the first dance to the also provide ceremony mus ic, drinks reception mus to finish out the night. You ic and a DJ service can have it all! Check out The Looks Band at ww .They are, simply – superio w.thelooksband.ie r entertainment; Five Star Entertainment. Spend five minutes and save hours of work! Ph: 087-1768014 / 087-767247 7. band have played all ove
Win Your Band
Bridaan l New
In Cav
in Cavan stocking new bridal shop Amsha Bridal is a l labels. Based in rld’s leading brida some of the wo only three miles . Cavan, they are Crossdoney, Co n. from Cavan tow elle to come, ment with Mich Book an appoint dding gowns we l the beautifu see, and try on Sacha James , urg nb or Martin Th from Sophia Tolli, an amazing First l. They also have and Venus Brida Pie. Contact el from Sweetie Communion lab 57. 59 80 Bridal on 0877 Michelle at Amsha ber Photography
hite Am Photograph by W
36 I IWD I Wedding Diary News
WIN YOUR BAND WITH THE BENTLEY BOYS! Attending one of the Bentley Boys renowned showcases is must for your wedding to-do list in order to experience the Wow factor the boys bring to any event. And now, attending one of their showcases could see you in with a chance of winning the Bentley Boys for your big day, a prize worth €2,500! The Bentley Boys showcase regularly in Dublin, Belfast, Cork and Athlone. See www.bentleyboysband.ie/winyourband for full details and T&Cs. Follow the Bentley Boys on Instagram, Facebook and Twitter, or subscribe to their YouTube channel. Phone Dublin (01) 4434336, Belfast: (028) 9099 2322 or Galway: (091) 442350. Email info@bentleyboysband.ie.
PHOENIX GOWNS Danielle Couture
Phoenix Gowns
Envy by Phoenix
www.daniellecouture.co.uk
www.phoenixgowns.co.uk
www.envybyphoenix.co.uk
Stockists - Northern Ireland Angel Star Bridal Boutique - Belfast www.angelstarbridal.co.uk
Naomi Bridal- Ballyclare www.naomibridal.co.uk
Tomorrows - City of Derry www.tomorrowsformal.com
Bridal Elegance - Larne www.bridalelegance-boutique.co.uk
Reflections - Lisburn 028 9266 8282
Wedded Bliss - Ballymena, www.weddedblissbridalhouse.com
Stockists - Republic of Ireland BellaDonna Bridal - Galway www.belladonnagalway.com
Something New Bridal Boutique - Letterkenny www.somethingnewbridalboutique.ie
Eves Bridal - Tullamore, www.evesbridal.ie
Smart Brides - Portlaoise, www.smartbrides.ie
The Bridal Emporium - Miltown Malbay, www.thebridalemporium.ie
The White Room - Mullingar, www.thewhiteroom.ie
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Edel Tuite, award winning Irish bridal & wedding
dress designer, is known for creating expertly
crafted gowns that truly capture the beauty & spirit of all brides-to-be, making their dream wedding gown which they will treasure forever. With a wide range of bridal wear and her new 2019 collection to try on at her bridal
Special Offer
studio in Drogheda, just 25 minutes from Dublin Airport and one hour from Belfast, we highly recommend a visit and for all our Irish Wedding Diary brides-to-be you will get an EXCLUSIVE 15% off ANY gown from her extensive range. Dresses start from as little as €1,200 & are exquisitely tailored to flatter all body shapes & sizes as well as all types of budgets. Edel has been attracting brides from all over Ireland for over 18 years with an ever-growing popularity as clients praise her for her honesty & professionalism that leaves any bride-to-be knowing that their dream wedding dress will come to life under Edel’s watchful eye & attention to detail. Viewing is strictly by appointment only T: +353(0)41 9872951 or book online www.edeltuitebridaldesign.com to view her full Bridal Collections. Photograph by White Amber
Georgian Manor Photography
Situated only 30 minute s from Dublin, Bellinter House is renowned as the most unique wedding one of venues in Ireland.This stun ning 18th century Geo manor is set on the rgian banks of the River Boy ne and offers exclusive weddings of up to 206 use for guests. Located in County Me ath, and with sweeping lawns, ancient trees and spots for you to exp secluded lore, Bellinter House displays a distinctive ambiance which cannot romantic be replicated anywhere else. The setting and style of Bellinter House creates a wonderfully relaxed, warm and welcoming atm informal, osphere, which can onl y be appreciated fully by the house. visiting To arrange a viewing of Bellinter House, please contact our Wedding Co Barbara at 046 903090 ordinator, 0 or email: events@bell interhouse.com.
38 I IWD I Wedding Diary News
Award winning Irish Photogr apher who specializes in nationwide & overseas serv Byrne is celebrating 25 year ices Dermot s in the business! His pass ion for photography, coupled ability to visualize an image with his natural and a willingness to go that extra mile for all his clients You can’t help but admire is commendable. his innovative and creative approach and yet he is still his friendly manner and sens able to maintain e of fun that brings out that inner smile in all his Brides Dermot is one of the only & Grooms. photographers in Ireland to have been honoured membership to the Irish with a lifetime Professional Photographe rs’ Association (I.P.P.A.), which in itself is testimony of his great wor k & high standards. And as a 25 year celebrat ory gift to all Irish Wedding Diary readers, Dermot wou a 10% discount to all who ld like to offer book him in 2019. So con tact Dermot today at his studio in Bray on 01-282 9560 / 087 2505 384 or Email: Dermot@dermotby rne.ie Web: www.dermot Making people smile byrnephoto.ie by going that extra mil e!
New
Ballroom
Annebrook House Hotel, located in the beautiful midlands county of Westmeath, have just announced the reopening of their newly refurbished ballroom in Spring 2019! For further details visit www.annebrook.ie, or email our dedicated weddings manager, Ciara, on events@annebrook.ie.
Fiona Todhunter Bridals award winning bridal designer Relax and enjoy our spacious salon and fitting rooms. Where every bride is assured our undivided personal attention and the professional assistance of our design team.
Exquisite accessories and in-house alterations available to create a celebration in style.
www.fionatodhunter.com info@fionatodhunter.com Tel: 01-4526854 Unit 4, Greenhills Retail Park, Greenhills Rd, Tallaght, Dublin 24 Facebook: fiona todhunter bridals Dublin
Fash on
Compiled by Elaine Hession
Mistress Little
Debut
Frankie Lace Trim
Pencil Dress With Keyhole €60 at Little Mistress
Blazer Lilac
Debut Dress €160at Debenhams
Principles lilac blazer
Skinny €65 at Debenhams
Purple
Purple Hues
Stiletto Skinny Lilac Stiletto €16 at Pennys
Purple stretch skinny fit suit trousers €40 at River Island
Sequins VIP Sequin Dress €130 at Lipsy
42 I IWD Feature I Fashion
Clutch
Bronco London Brocco Clutch bag €80 at Dune
@SincerityBridal
#SincerityBride
|
sinceritybridal.com
Fash on Compiled by Elaine Hession
Dress
Leopard
Principles
Red
Debenhams Principles Dress €75
Sosander Red Leopard Print Fit & Flare Dress €75
Wine Lovers
Boutique Boutique dress €75 at M&Co
Choker Real
Choker Dress €70 at Lipsy
Heels
Bag Velvet
Burgundy Velvet Handbag at Miss Selfridges €38
Happy
HAPPY Heels €75 at Office
Skirt Pleat
Pleat Midi Skirt €45 at Lipsy
44 I IWD Feature I Fashion
MARIANS A TRADITION OF EXCELLENCE Bridge Street, Boyle, Co. Roscommon. Phone: +353-(0)71-9662031
Web: www.marians.ie
Fash on Compiled by Elaine Hession
Satin Mini
Miss Selfridge Satin Mini Dress €55
Pink VIP
Lipsy VIP Pink Lace Dress €130
Prints Floral
Rachel Shenton for Richard Quinn at Debenhams €85
Pink s m o s s o Bl
Velvet Pink
F&F Pink Velvet Bag €16
Coat Pink
Dorothy Perkin Pink Crombie Coat €70
46 I IWD Feature I Fashion
Faith Have
Faith - Metallic ‘Chariot’ high stiletto heel wide fit pointed shoes € 37.50 at Debenhams
Lace
Blossom
Paper Dolls Blossom Lace Dress €80
Rathfarnham Village
e th S at RD N1 w, nd ho ta r S t S ea sa eY e u th Se e of id Br
Dublin Bridal House Dublin’s Elite Supplier of International Award Winning bridal & bridesmaid gowns by Stella York, Mori Lee, Badgley Mischka, Nicole Spose, Monica Loretti & Dessy
Dublin Bridal House, 11 Main Street Rathfarnham Village, Dublin 14 Phone: 01 699 3707 • Mobile: 087 697 6484 • sharon@dublinbridalhouse.ie
www.dublinbridalhouse.ie
Fash on
Velvet Drops Elegant Petal
Compiled by Elaine Hession
Oliver Bonas Valentina Curved Bar & Petal Drop Earring €25
Orange Inky Burnt
T.K.MAX Burnt Orange Ruffle Dress €30
Lost Ink Deconstructed Dress €62
Orange Crush
Glitter
Bronze
JD Williams Bronze Sadie Glitter Jeans €40
Island River Island Orange tes front dress €50
Wrap It’s a
Lipsy London Spot Frill Wrap Dress €65
48 I IWD Feature I Fashion
Heels Almond
Aurrora Almond €95 at Dune London
Print Leopard
New Look Leopard Print Gold Ring Chain Bag €22
Masque
Green Shoots
Gel
Of Spring With Beauty Editor
Elaine Hession
Spring into the new season with a fresh new beauty regime. It’s the perfect time to reassess your current skincare routine and switch things up. Start the new year by investing in some key greens that will revive your post winter skin on the run up to your big day.
Scents
IMAGE Skincare Ormedic Balancing Gel Masque is an ultra-gentle, organic gel masque specifically designed to soothe and hydrate unbalanced skin. Enriched with organic aloe vera, green tea, and arnica montana, it instantly quenches the skin with hydration, nutrition, and super antioxidants. Ideal for every skin type and necessary for every bridal glow. Image Ormedic Balancing Gel Masque €45.50.
Bag Beauty
Spring
Perfect for all of your green essentials Oliver Bonas cosmetic bag €20
Mugler Les Exceptions Mystic Aromatic is a divine, fresh spring fragrance of
sprouting leaves and blooming flowers as well as beautiful, fresh herbs. The composition of basil leaves, thyme, sage, and oregano is sure to settle the nerves on the big day thanks to their calming properties. The subtle smell of the mystic aromas will last beyond your expectations. A beautiful gift for a bride on her wedding day. Thierry Mugler Les Exceptions Mystic Aromatic Eau De Parfum, 80
Shaping Silhouette
Reshape your silhouette and say yes to the dress with Yon-Ka Huile Silhouette. This lightweight oil tones, nourishes, softens and smooths the skin to perfection. Essential oils such as cedar, cypress and rosemary work in harmony with pink pepper oil, which is renowned for its fat-metabolising benefits to create the perfect sculpted silhouette. Silhouette Yon-Ka Huile Silhouette, €39.00.
50 I IWD Beauty I Green Shoots
Faced Fresh
mls, €117.
Clean skin is happy skin! So kick your skin routine into shape with the new Nuxe Aquabella Micro-Exfoliating Purifying Gel. Perfect for lifting dirt and impurities from the surface of your skin without drying it out. The signature combination of white waterlily and naturalorigin hyaluronic acid found within the Micro-Exfoliating Purifying Gel gives skin a much-needed moisture boost, while the green lentil extract tightens pores and improves the quality of the skin’s texture. Aquabella Micro-Exfoliating Purifying Gel €14.50.
Amsha
Bridal
Amsha Bridal
Ricehill, Crossdoney, Co. Cavan. Tel: 086-780 5957 Email: amshabridal@gmail.com WEB: www.amshabridal.ie
Green Shoots
Of Spring With Beauty Editor
Elaine Hession
Fingers Green
Control Pore
You may not be able to shrink your
pores, but you can make them look smaller thanks to Clarins’ instant pore control. The firming Vine Flower cells and mattifying organic strawberry tree fruit extracts visibly
A stunning shade of sparkling green that is
tighten and purify enlarged pores
guaranteed to make your nails stand out from
for skin that’s smooth, radiant,
the crowd. This long -wear polish delivers
shine-free and refined.
seven-day wear that’s ideal for hectic brides.
Clarins Pore Control - pore
CND™ VINYLUX™ Emerald Lights €11.95.
minimising serum 30 mls €50.
Toned Well
Tone up your skin with Aquabella Refining Essence Lotion. The super-hydrating tone will not only tone the skin but will also moisturise,
Green Apple
If your skin has a tendency towards dryness, the Académie 24H
smooth and tighten pores. It’s an essential
Hydraderm Serum will add a boost
addition to any bridal beauty bag.
of moisturising radiance to the skin.
Aquabella Refining Essence Lotion €17.
The concentrated apple formula helps visibly plump skin up with moisture and bring back elasticity, giving you that fresh, dewy look you want during the spring months.
Angel
Académie 24H Hydraderm Serum €55.
Green
Reveal a new completion with Green Angel Seaweed & Apricot Facial Scrub. The unique formula deep -leans your pores while gently removing dull, lifeless skin cells to reveal a smoother skin. This beautiful scrub is renowned for its rejuvenating benefits thanks to its seaweed extracts, vitamin rich apricot extract and natural exfoliants. Green Angel Seaweed & Apricot Facial Scrub 50ml,€21.95.
52 I IWD Beauty I Green Shoots
60109846 PM Irish Wedding Diary 2017-V1.indd 1
16/02/2017 15:53
Beauty Within Bring out the
With Beauty Editor Elaine Hession
Scent Heaven
Lighter High
Choosing a wedding fragrance might seem like a minor task but choosing the right perfume has the power to call to mind your big day with just a single spritz, is essential. Wonder Bouquet represents a bouquet of white
Illuminate your best features with the special-edition Christmas Highlighter Palette from Clarins. A beautiful keepsake that will accentuate your cheekbones and create the illusion of beautiful skin. An essential bridal addition to the luxe bridal beauty bag. Christmas Highlighter Palette €37
flowers with top notes of orange blossom, lily of the valley and sambac jasmine. This new scent will enhance your special occasion and will create lasting memories of a wonderful wedding. Mulgar Les Exceptions - Wonder Bouquet, 80mls €170
Glow Faux
When the sun isn’t shining outside, it’s time to liven up the skin with an instant bounce of colour. IMAGE Body Spa Face and Body Bronzer is a lightweight bronzing cream that glides on easily to give a natural and beautiful tan without the sun. It’s fabulously hydrating and feels great
Skin Sheer
A bridal favourite for flawless skin. Available in 12 stunning shades to naturally match all skin tones. Ideal for the main event in your calendar this year. Clarins Skin Illusion SPF 15 €35
Pout Keep
on the skin.
A subtle hint of a tint that will intensely
Image Body Spa Face And Body
moisturise your pout. The Lip Comfort Oil is
Bronzer €35
enriched with essential oils to condition and smooth out dry lips. Apply alone or over lipstick for a lightly coloured and naturally shiny lip. Clarins Christmas Lip Comfort Oil ‘Red Berry Glam’ €21
54 I IWD Beauty I Beauty Within
Beauty Within Bring out the
With Beauty Editor Elaine Hession
Fatigue Banish
The Radiance Aqua Balm banishes signs of fatigue and brightens the skin. Aqua Balm is rich in apricot extract that delivers an immediate burst of radiance. It also acts as a primer to even out skin tone. A great addition to the bridal beauty regime on the run-up to your big day. Best of all, it smells divine! Académie Radiance Aqua Balm €36
Fire Wild
Celebrate the engagement by showing off your
diamond with a red statement nail polish to make
that diamond pop. Wildfire is a classic scarlet which is not too dark, not too bright with a ton of shine and is chip-free thanks to its seven-day wear.
Rose Gold CND™ VINYLUX™ Wildfire €11.95
Never lose you ID. Next Cosmetics Bag €18.50
Mist Skin
Quench your skin with Ella & Jo Hydrating Skin
Mist. Professional makeup artists and bridal experts Charlene Flanagan and Niamh Ryan, founders of Ella & Joe have created a beautiful Hyaluronic Skin Mist to compliment your bridal routine. The unique blend of nourishing ingredients such as chamomile, cucumber, witch hazel, aloe vera, and green tea with hyaluronic acid is super-hydrating. Spritz it on after cleansing to lock in moisture, and then again after applying makeup to set your foundation. Love how the hydrating mist jumpstarts the skin. Available www.ellaandjo.com Ella & Joe 3in1 Hyaluronic Skin Mist €20
Brows Bil ion Dollar
Create the perfect arch with
Billion Dollar Brows brow kit. The compact kit contains a foolproof, mini brow brush with a spoolie brush on the opposite end for blending products, a mini smudge brush and a tweezer. All wrapped up in a compact
The perfect rose gold ensemble for a multitude of bridal looks. The set includes a Rose Gold Eyeshadow Palette, a Baked Highlighter and Blush Rose Gold, a beautifully Bare, Smooth Matte Eyeshadow Blushing Rose, and a Matte Lip Colour Tea Rose. A lovely gift for your bridesmaids or for the bride herself. E.L.F. Rose Gold Look Set €26
56 I IWD Beauty I Beauty Within
tin that includes an essential mirror inside for touch-ups on the move. BDB Brows On The Go Tool Kit €34.99
Clonfolic Irish Wedding Diary A4 FA.pdf
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Update
Wellness that Works WW is embarking on a new and exciting journey and we want you to be part of it, explains president and CEO Mindy Grossman
W
hen Jean Nidetch set out to lose weight in 1961, she chose a science-based eating program from the New York City Department of Health. But she knew that a programme alone was not enough for her. And, thinking it may not be enough for others, she gathered a group of friends to form a community of allies. Together, they didn’t just lose the weight – they transformed their lives in deep and extraordinary ways. More than that, they were inspired to help others do the same. A lot has changed since the 1960s. Thanks to the power of technology, we are arguably more connected now than ever, yet we crave more meaningful connections. We are spoiled for options when it comes to food, but we are overwhelmed by how to make the healthiest choices for ourselves and our families. We seem to have unending ways to get active – from boxing classes and fun runs to yoga retreats but we struggle to make the time and find the energy. It’s the wellness paradox: we truly want to get healthy, and yet
Best,
Mindy Grossman President & CEO mindy@weightwatchers.com
6 WW DECEMBER/JANUARY 2019
58 I IWD Feature I Health & Wellbeing
we – as a society, as a world – are getting unhealthier. That’s exactly the problem that we want to help solve. And so, we have embarked on an exciting journey from being the global leader in weight management to becoming the world’s partner in wellness. Earlier this year, we declared our purpose: we inspire healthy habits for real life. For people, families, communities, the world – for everyone. We will always have the best weight-loss programme on the planet, but now we’re putting our decades of experience in behaviour-change science to work for an even greater mission. We aim to be the company that democratises wellness for all. To play a different role in people’s lives, we need to change the conversation. We’re doing a lot of things differently, but we’re also saying a lot of things differently. If you go to what used to be called a Meeting, you’ll find it’s now called a Workshop and held in a Studio. We are moving from Weight Watchers to WW
– rooted in the familiar but reimagined to welcome everyone who seeks to be healthier, not just manage their weight. To reinforce that we have always delivered the world’s most effective programmes – and will continue to – we are also introducing a new tagline that you will begin to see: Wellness that Works. It’s a promise that no matter what your goal is – to lose weight, eat healthier, move more, develop a more positive mindset, or all of the above – we will bring you science-based programmes, tools, and experiences that work and fit into your life. You will begin to see WW show up in new ways and new places. We hope that it feels surprising yet familiar. Because while we know that we can change the lives of so many more people, we are deeply proud of the millions we have impacted over the past 57 years. We feel honoured to carry on the legacy of Jean Nidetch and all the members of our community – past, present, and future.
Health & Wellbeing I IWD Feature I 59
2019
Bridal
Collection
Stella York
Essense of Australia Luna Novias
60 I IWD Feature I Wedding Dresses
2019
Bridal
Collection
EddyK
Aire Barcelona Kenneth Winston
62 I IWD Feature I Wedding Dresses
Memories you’ll savour for a lifetime‌
N
estled on 1,000 acres of undulating Irish countryside, dotted with ancient woodland and glittering lakes, Castle Leslie Estate is an exquisite and mystical setting for your special wedding celebration.
In the hands of its founding family since the mid 17th Century,
Set in a secluded and tranquil
Castle Leslie Estate is steeped in history and has been the
location in Glaslough village, Castle
venue for countless parties and celebrations through the
Leslie Estate is only 80 minutes from
centuries. It is an incredibly intimate and romantic venue
Dublin and 60 minutes from Belfast.
that comes alive when filled with the laughter and joy of
Its uniqueness, character and charm
family and friends.
can only be felt, not described.
At Castle Leslie Estate our priority is to turn your dream into a reality. Whether you are planning an intimate celebration for two or a grand celebration for 260, we have the perfect setting for you. With our reputation for fabulous food and discreet personal attention, the Estate also boasts a variety
Therefore we invite you to come and experience it for yourself and we look forward to welcoming you to the Estate so you can sample our renowned hospitality.
of accommodation to suit all preferences. We look after
To arrange a private viewing, call us
every detail to make your wedding celebration a day you will
now on +353 (0)47 88100 or email:
always remember.
events@castleleslie.com
Castle Leslie Estate, Glaslough, Monaghan www.castleleslie.com
2019
Bridal
Collection
Paloma Blanca Sincerity
Mikaella
64 I IWD Feature I Wedding Dresses
Wicklow’s Wicklow’s BrookLodge Village BrookLodge & & Macreddin Macreddin Village
The Perfect Venue
Macreddin Village is home home to BrookHall BrookHall -- aa Dedicated Dedicated Wedding Wedding Venue & Boasts Boasts aa Quaint Quaint Chapel Chapel on on the Grounds for an Idyllic Ceremony Ceremony
T: 0402 36444 | E: weddings@brooklodge.com | W: www.brooklodge.com
2019
Bridal
Collection
Phoenix Gowns
Tamem Michael
Justin Alexander Eternity
66 I IWD Feature I Wedding Dresses
BESPOKE WEDDINGS IN A TRULY MAGICAL, EXCLUSIVE WEDDING VENUE. The Millhouse is a romantic haven in a wonderful garden setting. At dusk when the river has a golden glow and the Orchard lanterns and fairy lights illuminate our garden pathways The Millhouse has a magical atmosphere, one that you and your guests will remember forever.
Viewings by appointment only ww w . t h e m i l l h o u s e . i e The Millhouse, The Old Mill, Slane, Co. Meath Tel: 041 9820878 Email: information@themillhouse.ie
9 St. Stephen’s Green, Dublin 2. Consultations welcome by appointment - please contact: Helen Daly – Sales & Marketing Manager T: (0)1 673 0207 E: helen@sghc.ie
2019
Bridal
Collection
Victoria Kay Allure Bridals Sophia Tolli Martin Thornburg by Mon Cheri
68 I IWD Feature I Wedding Dresses
TIMELESS. MAGNIFICENT. UNFORGETTABLE. The K Club, Straffan, Co. Kildare. + 353 1 601 7200 | weddings@kclub.ie | www.kclub.ie
The K Club Irish Wedding Diary 210 x 297.indd 1
23/11/2018 11:45
Bowls Nesting
G ifts Made W it h Love ^
Beech Nesting Bowls Set €230. Eight Leadbetter Woodturner at www.madeinkilkenny.ie
Firepit Olympus
Dawn
back to the great fire of the Athenas torch, also known as the Olympic Flame.
A New
www.covethouse.eu
Stool
Chop
Anna Jacobs - Breaking Dawn in
Velvet
For the
orange lamp on Vivid red - medium £195 at The Wedding Shop www.weddingshop.ie
Accent
the Olympus Firepit a sight to seen, taking us
Velvet
Delilah Accent Chair Green Velvet
Delilah is an accent chair with an elegant twist. Upholstered in luxurious deep-pile velvet to complement the retro design.. www.made.com
Beautiful handmade chopping board or bread board in hand selected wood from British grown trees. Complete with genuine leather handle for ease of use and storage. www.madebyhandonline.com
Smart Get
Beautifully pleated deep rosebud red velvet upholstery covers this perfectly proportioned stool. £175 www.frenchbedroomcompany.co.uk
Nver lose your keys
again with Keysmart €21 at Designist
Sticks
Chop
High quality japanese
chopsticks set made of ebony by Yumekobo €69.99 at oryoki.de
70 I IWD Feature I Wedding Gifts
Blender Bullet
Nutribullet Balance Smart Food Blender
€179 at Harvey Norman
120 acres of glorious parkland that overlooks the river Blackwater, with wonderfully romantic walled garden and beautiful woodlands, The Johnstown Estate is an idyllic luxury wedding destination located just 35 minutes from Dublin. From the magical setting of our wedding gardens, to the magnificent opulence of The Grand Ballroom, or the intimacy of our elegant wedding suites with 17th century architecture, our dedicated wedding team is on hand to create the celebration of your dreams. Enfield, Co. Meath. Tel: +353 (0)46 954 0000 Email: info@thejohnstownestate.com www.thejohnstownestate.com
3780 - Johnstown IWD wed advert.indd 1
21/11/2018 07:07
P late
G ifts Made W it h Love ^
Blue
Emma Bridgewater, dinner
Prep
plate at The Wedding Shop
£19.95 www.weddingshop.ie
Mini
Soap Brass Snail
Top
The Cuisinart Mini Prep Pro is an indispensable kitchen companion, making light work of everyday tasks from mixing dips and dressings to chopping
KUMI MIRROR pays tribute
onions and pureeing sauces.
to its allure through its glossy
£50 www.cuisinart.co.uk
hammered aged brass. This decorative wall mirror is a treasure coveted by many.
Time Tea
at www.maisonvalentina.net This snail-shaped soap dispenser is a perfect addition to any bathroom,
Ceramic Fired
Stackable cups in durable porcelain with perfect interlocking saucer for greater stability and balance. €36 at Viceversa
Speaker €179 at Harvey Norman
soap. www.coolgift.com
Time Tea
Original Japanese Tetsubin made of cast iron. Ideal for the
Moment Japanese tea ceremony €359 at oryoki.de
Golden
Bluetooth
JBL Charge 3 Bluetooth speaker
toilet or kitchen! Press its little shell and its cute face dispenses a drop of
Deimos Saggar Fired Ceramic Vessel €180 by Claire Mollow Ceramics at Made in Kilkenny
This 24-Karat Gold-Plated Vera Kettle is an exclusive treatment that makes the beautiful
72 I IWD Feature I Wedding Gifts
Vera Kettle unique and splendid, a special edition conceived for people who love standing out in every detail. Luxxdesign.com
weddingshop.ie
J10459 - TWS 2018 campaign - Love is all you need - PRODUCT AD 1 - 210x297mm.indd 1
04/09/2018 10:01:43
Armchair e d a M s t if G W it h Love ^ Metal
Sport Smart
Garmin ‘Vivomove HR’ Sport Smartwatch €205 at Harvey Norman
Mix
In the
Soiree Wine
This Boston Armchair comes with triple the appeal, courtesy of a coloured, padded seat and back plus a gleaming metal frame. €79 at www.cultfurniture.com
Speaker Waterproof
Soiree Wine Aerator €28.50 at Designist
Spoons Three
Three Spoons in Ash, Oak and Beech €20.00 each by Keoghan Leadbetter Woodturner at Made in Kilkenny
Table
Walnut
Fenella Smith, Pug mixing bowl at The Wedding Shop £40 www.weddingshop.ie
With this waterproof, bluetooth, easyto-attach speaker you can listen to your favourite music while taking a shower. £24.95 www.coolgift.com
Machine Coffee
Sage Nespresso Creatista Coffee Machine €499 at Harvey Norman
74 I IWD Feature I Wedding Gifts
Ligne Roset Interstice Coffee And Side Table www.ligne-roset.com
Screen Silver
Watch your wedding video back in 4K Impress the entire family this year, with either of Sony’s latest TV triumphs, the magnificent Sony BRAVIA OLED AF9 €3,549 (55” screen) €4,699 (65” screen) From Sony
Say I Do
Intimate, Special and Different
“One of Ireland’s top five sexiest hotels” UK Observer
Speak to a member of our team about our impressive Wedding Packages
Ireland’s Top Food & Wine Destination
Newcastle West, Co. Limerick 069 25300 sayido@longcourthousehotel.ie
IRELAND’S HOTEL OF THE YEAR 2018 The Twelve Hotel, Bearna VIllage, Galway, Ireland tel: +353 91 597000 E: sales@thetwelvehotel.ie
www.thetwelvehotel.ie
Winner Wedding Venue Newcomer 2018
The Twelve Hotel Autumn 2013.indd 1
22/05/2013 13:23
Radio
Retro
G ifts Made W it h Love ^
Tipple Little
Velvet Blue
Chair Primrose
Roberts Revival Radio €129 at Harvey Norman
Seater Two
Whiskey Glass and Drink Stone Gift Set €17 at Designist
Bath Buauble
Dylan 2 Seater Sofa, Retro Orange Combining classic mid-century style with up-to-date colour options and detailing. Set against a solid wood frame and sturdy wood legs. www.made.com
The Primrose dining chair crafted from solid oak and royal blue velvet fabric gives a slick approach to modern dining chairs. €99 www.cultfurniture.com
Newton bathtub is a piece of international desire that distinguishes itself from all the other designs by its futuristic forms.
Sound
From www.bocadolobo.com
True
Bird Blue
Carafe Tall
Large Garden Trading Meze Wine Carafe. €18 at www.gardentrading.co.uk
Blue Ceramic Bird form €120. Caroline Dolan Ceramics at www.moadeinkilkenny.ie
Snapper Happy
Marshall, portable bluetooth speaker at The Wedding Shop £239 www.weddingshop.ie
76 I IWD Feature I Wedding Gifts
Sony Alpha a6300 Mirrorless 16-50mm Lens Kit
€1,349 at Harvey Norman
Edge
On The
G ifts Made W it h Love ^ So Good
Edge Alarm Clock €45 at Designist
Stool
Sofa
KOI
Ellie 3-Seater Sofa €999 at Harvey Norman
Mirror
The KOI upholstered stooI which fits in any modern home decor. www.maisonvalentina.net
Light
Gold
Astro’s new Lago wall light blurs the boundaries between bathroom and bedroom without a hint of compromise, thanks to modern yet timeless lines which enhance any space. www.astrolighting.co.uk
Beach Palm
Palm Beach lamp by Rosaana Lonsdale at The Wedding Shop £365 www.weddingshop.ie
Silver Sterling
Six Serling Silver ‘Millennium’ Hallmarked Spoons in Leather Pouch €1500 from Jane Huston Designs at Made in Kilkenny
78 I IWD Feature I Wedding Gifts
Astro
Armchair Ellen
The Perfectly Pretty Gold Mirror is perfectly proportioned and perfectly presented! £145 www.frenchbedroomcompany.co.uk
Speaker Compact
The compact speaker, with water-resistant design, is ideal for anyone who wants to take festive tunes with them wherever they go. With EXTRA BASS sound and available in a range of bold colours including red, yellow, green and blue as well as white and black, the speaker is a fun and affordable gift for any music lover. €41 from Sony
Ellen is a sophisticated armchair, featuring a modern tub design. Built on top of a polished brass base, this accent chair is upholstered with a green lustruous velvet and its curvilinear open back contrasts with a rectangular shape on the front www.essentialhome.eu
Irish Wedding DIary Spring Ad.pdf
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15:08
Love, Laughter & Happily Ever After Stunning Salthill Seafront Location Bespoke Wedding Packages Available Taking bookings for 2020 & 2021 Engage with Hazel our Wedding Coordinator to Book your Dream Day
ENQUIRIES
091 522 711 weddings@salthillhotel.com www.salthillhotel.com
Sound
G ifts Made W it h Love ^ Scallops Mug
Punchy
Take the party with you with the SRS-XB501G EXTRA
BASS wireless speaker with a truly punchy sound.
Blue
€349 from Sony
Love
Cheesy Love
Stainless steel cheese knife with a
heart finial; the perfect way to cut and serve any type of cheese. £12.95: Annabel James Blue Scalloped Bowl - €25 by Rosemarie Durr Pottery from Made in Kilkenny.
Stool Metal
Piper bar stool offers a
modern feel to the kitchen
€119 at www.cultfurniture.com
Emma Bridgewater, mug at The Wedding Shop £19.95 www.weddingshop.ie
Seater Three
Gear Good
Water
Cool
Eau Good Water Bottle €18 at Designist
80 I IWD Feature I Wedding Gifts
Ballyroe 3 Seater Sofa Smoke €949 at Michael Murphy Home Furnishing
Samsung ‘Gear Fit2 Pro’ Fitness Tracker €209 at Harvey Norman
C
M
Y
CM
MY
CY
CMY
K
A DAY UNLIKE ANY OTHER SHOULD HAPPEN AT A PLACE UNLIKE ANY OTHER 4SEASONSHOTELCARLINGFORD.IE
EVENTS@FSHC.IE
+353 (0)42 93 73530
G ifts Made W it h Love ^ Corner In the
Alex Corner Sofa €1,399 at Michael Murphy Home
Attack
Furnishing
Art
Beautiful original hand-painted abstract painting available on Abstract House.
Fishy
£350 at abstracthouse.com.
Looks
Cuddler
Velvet
Primrose: Velvet Cuddler Sofa €1,199 at DFS
Armchair Aviator
This Moda CD3 Armchair with faux leather lining has a sleek silhouette, inspired by
the iconic designs of Charles & Ray Eames and fresh contemporary furniture from Scandinavia. €159 at www.cultfurniture.com
Evenings Sunny
Jonah Outdoor 3 seater Rattan
Take the comfort outdoors with our favourite Jonah collection, now available as a weather-proof outdoor sofa. www.made.com
Emma Bridgewater enamel fish pie dish at The Wedding Shop £39 www.weddingshop.ie
Good Sounds
The award winning over-ear WH-1000XM3
headphones that feature a newly developed HD Noise Cancelling Processor QN1, which offers exceptional performance and can
cancel out background sound such as street noise and human voices. €389 from Sony
82 I IWD Feature I Wedding Gifts
Mirror Diamond
this five-sided polygon mirror is the ultimate combination of geometry and design. www.essentialhome.eu
Annebrook A4 wedding advert selected:Layout 1
23/11/2018
12:06
Page 1
Anne br ook Hou se Hot el Newly refurbished ballroom coming in Spring 2019!
A unique wedding venue in the heart of the Midlands Situated in the heart of Mullingar, the award-winning Annebrook House Hotel presents a spectacular fusion of 17th heritage coupled with ultimate modern styling. This beautiful Georgian Manor House with its private entrance and exclusive use takes pride of place on the grounds of our four star hotel. Whether you are considering an intimate wedding or a grand affair, our flexible dining and drinking spaces allow you to custom your perfect wedding your way.
“ �
All I can say is wow! Tanya and Ronan, November 2017
MULLINGAR, CO. WESTMEATH 044 93 53300 | events@annebrook.ie | www.annebrook.ie
Marian Gale Quality, Service and Exclusivity
With a background in dress design and tailoring from the Grafton Academy, Marian Gale first opened the doors of her boutique in 1980 and has never looked back since. Starting out in Clontarf, Marian made the move to Donnybrook in 1984 where the boutique currently resides, and has remained as a renowned luxury shopping destination for the past 36+ years. Marian has garnered this reputation, along with
Marian Gale stocks a wide range of wedding
amassing a large, loyal following of customers,
dresses to suit every bride. From high necks
by adhering to a simple ethos from the very
to low backs, her styles are both modern and
beginning of her career: to provide high
feminine with fabrics such as traditional lace
standards of service, quality and exclusivity.
and silk for elegant simplicity.
Marian’s vision has always been to offer a beautifully curated collection of unique and
Over the past few months she has noticed a
luxury garments, supplying special clothes for
change in bride styles. Before, a lot of brides
special occasions, which can be found nowhere
were looking for a simpler style but now
else in Ireland.
there is a huge demand for bigger, more traditional dresses, especially with a veil.
The Donnybrook store specialises in occasion wear. Mothers of the brides and grooms come
Marian Gale sells from stock in sizes 8–16
from all over the country to get a really unique
as well as made-to-order styles. She also
outfit for their sons’ or daughters’ special day.
has a full range of bridal accessories. An
All of her outfits are exclusive to Marian Gale
appointment is recommended to view the
and a list is kept of what outfits are going to
collection.
each wedding, so no two outfits will turn up on the day! (sizes stocked 8–20).
As well as providing all outfits for a wedding or a special occasion
Bridesmaid shopping can be daunting
Marian Gale also has a full range
for brides, especially if there is a
of accessories including hats
large number of them and they
and fascinators, handbags and
are all different sizes. At Marian
jewellery. Bridal veils and
Gale there is a wide selection to
headpieces are also
choose from. Different styles are
available.
available in different colours and all alterations are done in store. So if one girls needs straps and another needs three inches off the bottom, it’s not a problem. Flower girl dresses are also available in a number of styles and there is also an option to add a sash in the matching colour of the bridesmaids.
84 I IWD Profile I Marian Gale
www.mariangale.ie
Handmade Double Wedding Ring Specialists In our full instore workshop, each ring is handmade to the highest quality and standards to compliment, match and support your engagement ring.
A diamond band at either side of your engagement ring will enhance and frame your ring, creating a stunning result and take it from ordinary to extra ordinary! Prices from... â‚Ź1300. Contact us for an appointment to design the ring of your dreams chris@cmjewellers.com
Established in 1989 Inside SuperValu | Lorcan Avenue | Santry | Dublin 9 For Appointments T: 01 8426197 | E: chris@cmjewellers.com | www.cmjewellers.com
Home to Beautiful Weddings & Treasured Moments
Our
Winter All-Inclusive package
€9999
for 120
Guests
(T&C’s apply)
Includes:
Reception Music, Florist, Cake, Band & DJ, Photographer & Men’s Suits
CASTLE DARGAN ESTATE, BALLYGAWLEY, CO.SLIGO
0318_CD_AD_195X138_PRINT3.indd 1
06/12/2018 15:38
Jennies Candles Jennies Candles offer you a full range of handmade personalised wedding candles. Rebecca Fox Handcrafted individually Dublin basedand make up artist decorated, will traveleach to you for trial and candle is unique. on the big day.
For more information please visit our website or email us. www.jenniescandles.com • www.jenniesinvitations.com Tel: (071) 9141055 • Mobile: (087) 634 0406
We’ll take it from here…
Stunning surroundings, fabulous food, luxurious bedrooms and a unique location makes Sheen Falls Lodge a setting with a difference to celebrate your wedding day.
Wedding Packages from €120 €115 per person Includes: • Prosecco & ½ pint Guinness reception • Tea, Coffee & Scones on arrival • 5 course meal with wine • Evening food • Complimentary Sheen Suite on the night of the wedding • Resident Pianist for the arrival reception • 2 complimentary rooms for the wedding night for guests of your choice • Floral arrangements and candelabras
SHEENFALLSLODGE.IE SHEEN FALLS LODGE, KENMARE, CO. KERRY, IRELAND V93 HR27 WEDDINGS@SHEENFALLSLODGE.IE | + 353 (0)64 6641600
New from Sorella Vita: Modern Styles for Timeless Beauty
S
ay hello to the future of bridesmaid fashion! Sorella Vita is all about bringing a modern touch to timeless designs, for gowns that are hot on the runway (and even hotter on your bridal party)! This season, Sorella Vita really brings the heat with unexpected mixed materials, innovative colour offerings and sleek silhouettes that are as comfortable as they are fashionable. Whether you want mix-and-match, totally streamlined or something in between … there’s a selection of gowns to suit every modern style!
Expect the Unexpected … Mixing up Minimalism. Looking for a more minimalist look? These stunning mixed-material gowns are perfect for those with simple tastes, but who love an unexpected detail. Try a luxurious satin bodice over a breezy chiffon skirt for a more laid-back elegance – or choose formal on the top with sleek Mikado, and a party in the back (and on the skirt) with sassy chiffon!
Breathtaking Backs Of course, nothing says ‘modern’ like adding an interesting back detail to the mix … and these mixed-material gowns deliver! For an exciting spin, these back straps can be tied three different ways – giving brides and their ‘maids even more ways to personalise their party.
88 I IWD Feature I Bridesmaids’ Dresses
Effortless Elegance The stunning back details didn’t stop there. With these gowns, you’ll want to rock them again and again! Because comfort never goes out of style, Sorella Vita brings you timeless, formal-inspired silhouettes (with totally on-trend elements) that you’ll never want to take off. Effortless and functional, these easy-to-wear gowns will have the ‘maids feeling as great as they look from the reception to the dance floor.
One Dress: Two Looks! Looking for the best of both worlds? No problem! Simple and totally versatile, this strapless chiffon gown with flutter overlay can adapt to whatever venue suits your fancy. Wear it in Blush for a more relaxed garden affair, or try it in Navy for an elevated city ceremony.
or a Ready f er? makeov modern Vita Sorella Find a r you at a e n t s i m stock avita.co l l e r o s . www
Mixed… Matched… Modern! As the mix-and-match trend continues to thrive, Sorella Vita has gone above and beyond to answer the call of the modern bridesmaid. Whether you decide to change up each colour, slightly shift shades for an ombre effect or simply switch out a neckline … even the subtlest variations between gowns can make a noteworthy style statement. With Sorella Vita, the possibilities are endless when it comes to choosing from these fresh colour combinations and flattering silhouettes—in fabrics so comfortable, you can party from dawn ‘til dusk (and beyond).
Bridesmaids’ Dresses I IWD Feature I 89
Winter Bridal Photoshoot in Clanard Court Hotel Photography by Thomas Sunderland
Location: Clanard Court Hotel The Clanard Court Hotel is an award-winning four star wedding hotel and one of Kildare’s leading wedding venues set amid landscaped gardens that provides the perfect scenic setting to make your day truly unforgettable. Their ‘one Wedding per day’ policy, dedicated Wedding Coordinator, attention to detail, superb food, stunning décor and excellent service mean that your special day will be everything you dreamed….and more. As a family run hotel, they pride themselves on offering each couple personalised attention to ensure every aspect of their special day captures the essence of their union. No stone will be left unturned and their wedding coordinator will ensure that your wedding leaves an everlasting memory for you and your guests. Clanard Court Hotel, Athy, Co Kildare. Tel: 059 8640666. www.clanardcourt.ie
Photography by: Thomas Sunderland 22 Castle Street Carlow Web: www.thomassunderland.ie Phone: +353 (0)59 9142278
Hair & Makeup by: The Hair and Beauty Chalet 085 742 7141 or 059 915 8795 www.thehairandbeautychalet.ie
Elegance Wedding Stationery Old Dublin Road, Athy, Co. Kildare T: 059 8633217 E: info@elegance.ie www.elegance.ie
Dress by Aideen Cross Designs Main St,Rathangan,Co Kildare Tel:086-8325694 Email;aideen.cross@gmail.com www.aideencrossdesigns.com
90 I IWD Bridal I Clanard Court Hotel
Clanard Court Hotel I IWD Bridal I 91
Dress by Aideen Cross Designs 92 I IWD Bridal I Clanard Court Hotel
Main St,Rathangan,Co Kildare Tel:086-8325694 Email;aideen.cross@gmail.com www.aideencrossdesigns.com
Formal Wear by Protocol For Men Dublin Dawson Street 01 6772777 | Swords 01 8107453 Web: protocolmenswear.com
Clanard Court Hotel I IWD Bridal I 93
94 I IWD Bridal I Clanard Court Hotel
Dress by Aideen Cross Designs Main St,Rathangan,Co Kildare Tel:086-8325694 Email;aideen.cross@gmail.com www.aideencrossdesigns.com
Clanard Court Hotel I IWD Bridal I 95
Dress by Aideen Cross Designs Main St,Rathangan,Co Kildare Tel:086-8325694 Email;aideen.cross@gmail.com www.aideencrossdesigns.com
96 I IWD Bridal I Clanard Court Hotel
Formal Wear by Protocol For Men Dublin Dawson Street 01 6772777 | Swords 01 8107453 Web: protocolmenswear.com
Clanard Court Hotel I IWD Bridal I 97
Dress by Atelier Barbara Kosznik 86 Lower George’s Street, Dun Laoghaire. Tel: 01-280 6277 Web: www.kosznik.com
98 I IWD Bridal I Clanard Court Hotel
Formal Wear by Protocol For Men Dublin Dawson Street 01 6772777 | Swords 01 8107453 Web: protocolmenswear.com
Dress by Atelier Barbara Kosznik 86 Lower George’s Street, Dun Laoghaire. Tel: 01-280 6277 Web: www.kosznik.com
Clanard Court Hotel I IWD Bridal I 99
Formal Wear by Protocol For Men Dublin 100 I IWD Bridal I Clanard Court Hotel
Dawson Street 01 6772777 | Swords 01 8107453 Web: protocolmenswear.com
Dress by Atelier Barbara Kosznik 86 Lower George’s Street, Dun Laoghaire. Tel: 01-280 6277 Web: www.kosznik.com
Clanard Court Hotel I IWD Bridal I 101
Dress by Atelier Barbara Kosznik 86 Lower George’s Street, Dun Laoghaire. Tel: 01-280 6277 Web: www.kosznik.com
102 I IWD Bridal I Clanard Court Hotel
Formal Wear by Protocol For Men Dublin Dawson Street 01 6772777 | Swords 01 8107453 Web: protocolmenswear.com
Clanard Court Hotel I IWD Bridal I 103
Winter Wedding Showcase
Wedding Open Evenings
Summer Wedding Showcase
With Wedding Suppliers, Sunday 3rd February 2019 2pm-5pm
Thursday 17th January Wednesday 13th February Wednesday 13th March 5-8pm
With Wedding Suppliers, Sunday 16th June 2019 2pm-5pm
HHHH Dublin Road, Athy, Co.Kildare 059 8640666 I sales@clanardcourt.ie
www.clanardcourt.ie
Our 2020 All Inclusive Wedding â‚Ź8,500
Wedding Celebrant Bespoke wedding ceremonies Created with you. Created for you.
Wedding ceremonies & Vow renewals www.conorclear.com conorclear@gmail.com conorclearcelebrant
‘Til Debt Do Us Part Claudia Gocoul shares the secret to starting married life with full hearts, and pockets
Jennifer Lopez might have sung My Love Don’t Cost a Thing but let’s face it, getting hitched is an expensive activity. The average Irish couple spends a whopping €21,000 on getting wed. It’s a little less than Meghan and Harry’s €27 million fairy-tale nuptials, but it’s no small chunk of change. If you don’t want to start your life as Mr and Mrs with full hearts and empty pockets, read on for our top tips on creating your dream day for less.
Set up a wedding website for your Save the
Save (on) the Date
Guest Who?
Fortune Favours
Believe it or not, venues are more expensive
It’s often easier said than done, especially when
Fortune may favour the bold, but favours
at certain times of the year and even on
you have family and friends weighing in, but
will cost you a fortune. Do you really need
certain days. If you’re flexible with when you
the key to cutting costs is to be ruthless when
them anyway? Think about it: have you ever
want to set the date, there are bargains to
it comes to compiling the guest list. Food and
attended a wedding and thought, ‘Do you know
be had. Off-peak months include November,
drink will make up a massive portion of your
what’s really beautiful? The wedding favours’.
early December, January and February, whilst
bill, so naturally, cutting guests will cut down
We think not. Wedding favours are the one
midweek is cheaper than the weekend. Think
on costs. Invite your core group of family and
thing you can guarantee will be left at the
about it: a little compromise on dates could
friends to the dinner and save the workmates,
end of the night. Even hand-made options are
mean you tie the knot in your dream venue
second cousins and plus ones for the afters.
time-consuming and costly. Imagine going to
and have a healthy sum left over for the
Why not make like Pippa Middleton and impose
the hassle (and expense) of hand-tying 100
honeymoon.
a ‘no ring, no bring’ rule - if it’s good enough
organza bags of sugared almonds just to see
for Pips…
them abandoned and strewn around the room
Date and opt for an e-vite company such as Paperless Post for the invites themselves. You can still design the invite yourself and the bonus is that guests can RSVP with the click of a button, saving you all the effort of following up.
as soon as the lights go up. If you really want to
You’re Invited When you’ve finally compiled that compressed
a donation to your favourite charity, with a note
guest list, don’t feel obliged to post out your
telling guests you’ve donated on their behalf.
invites. Not only is it bad for your bank balance, it’s also bad for the environment. The cost of invites adds up fast, between calligraphy, printing costs and postage. They’re also a logistical nightmare – we’re willing to bet you don’t keep a Rolodex of addresses, do you?
106 I IWD Feature I Wedding Budgets
have something on each table, swap favours for
SOS Don’t be afraid to accept help. You’ll be bombarded with offers from friends and family – just say ‘yes’. You may have a friend that is great at calligraphy, an aunt that bakes a mean wedding cake, or a colleague who took a florist
Be sure to liaise with your florist to ensure your chosen flowers are in season course last summer. When people say they want to help, they mean it; let your nearest and dearest get involved. You’ll reduce costs and they’ll get a sense of pride from providing
will have to be imported, making them a lot
of your relationship, with a buffet filled with
more expensive. Sit down with your florist and
foods you’ve enjoyed on your travels? Don’t be
talk about your ideal bouquet versus what is
afraid to try something a little different – it’s
available and in season, and more often than
your big day after all.
not, they will come up with similar alternatives that you’ll be happy to carry up the aisle. And catering, always opt for local, seasonal produce. Not only will it be cheaper, and fresher, but you’ll be supporting local businesses. The good karma can’t hurt, right?
Grubs Up
Rent Due
Meat and two veg may be the norm, but it’s
Overwhelmed by the sheer
not the only option. Why not throw caution to
cost of having a bridal
the wind and opt for something much more
party? We hear you
relaxed?
–
something for your big day.
bridal
party
There’s no written rule saying that you have to foot
work harder by transitioning it through
the bill for everyone but it is often expected.
different stages of your day. With a
Why not opt for rental dresses and suits instead
little careful planning and forward
of splurging on outfits that will more than likely
thinking, your ceremony flowers can
only be worn once? There are an abundance
become your centrepieces and can
of dress-rental options popping up in Ireland,
even be used again for the day after.
from the high end such as The Designer Rooms
Flowers are such a massive cost, it’s
to more affordable options such as Runaway
wasteful not to make the most of them.
Bride and Cari’s Closet.
Florals, for Spring? Groundbreaking…
Squad Goals If you’re really struggling with the cost of your
Whilst we’re talking flowers, be sure to liaise
bridal party, make the guest list and simply cut
with your florist to ensure your chosen flowers
you. However, flowers that are out of season
hair,
can add up, quickly.
makes all the difference. Make your decor
a certain bloom, a florist can often source it for
outfits,
the
Let’s face it, decor costs a bomb – and yet it
year round, and if you have your heart set on
between
accessories,
make-up and gifts,
Reduce, Reuse, Recycle
are in season. Many flowers are available all
Even hand-made options are timeconsuming and costly
whilst we’re talking seasonal, when it comes to
it down. Remember, your friends and family are There are so many options out there, from
there to celebrate your love and will be there at
summer BBQs to hog roasts or funky food
the drop of a hat to lend a hand anyway – they
trucks. Why not bring your guests on a journey
don’t need a title to do so.
Wedding Budgets I IWD Feature I 107
Groom’s
Room Compiled by Peter Cole
Classic
A true
Linen LA Classic Pink Shirt €59 at Crew Clothing
Stripe Pin
Doors Out
Navy Pinstripe Leaf Print Shirt €50 at TK Maxx
Jacket, Hoodie, Sweatshirt, Jeans and shoes all from Debenams
Time Make
Skinny Ripped &
Georg Jensen - Men’s Koppel Chronograph Watch - Black €895 at Amara
Big and Tall white Eddy ripped
skinny jeans €45 at River Island
Power Flower
Floral shirt 36 at Next
Stripes Earn your
Hammond & co bowlingshirt €60 at Debenhams
Deal A Teal
Teal T-shirt with collar at Topman
Shade In The
Red Herring Black square frame sunglasses €25 at Debenhams
108 I IWD Feature I Groom’s Room
Download our magazine as an App for your
Mobile Devices le Singue Iss
9
€2.9
ly Year ption cri Subs
9
€9.9
Your favourite wedding magazine is now available for downloading to your phone and tablet so you can now carry the magazine with you everywhere.
ble a l i a Av OS & On Idroid An nes Pho
January/February – Wedding exclusive price package,
Buy 4 three-piece suits, shirts and ties, for €999.99 T&C Apply
DORIAN BLACK, IN HOUSE PERSONAL TAILORING SERVICE. 5 STAR CUSTOMER SERVICE. DEDICATED GROOMS ROOMS IN ALL OF OUR STORES. BOOK BY APPOINTMENT. 6 Balbriggan Retail Park, Dublin Road, Balbriggan. Tel: +353 (01) 841 6145 28 South Anne’s Lane, Dublin 2, D02 AC62
SUITS TAILORED FOR YOU
www.DorianBlack.Ie
Scarf Striped
Groom’s
Room
Mustard Stripe Scarf €25
Burton Menswear London
Compiled by Peter Cole
Blues Get the
Big and Tall Blue Blazer at River Island
Check Quick
Casual Smart
Blue Skinny Fit Check suit jacket €106 at Next
Jacket, Suit Bag and Holdall all from Debehams
Hoodie Pink
Shoe
Pink ‘ninety eight’ print hoodie
Deck
€28 at River Island
Print Paisley
Grey and Purple Paisley Design Tie €14 at Burton Menswear
Austell Deck Shoe €70 at Crew Clothing
School Back to
Brown Leather & Canvas Satchel
Boot
€69.99 at TK Maxx
Das
110 I IWD Feature I Groom’s Room
Mumford Brown Leather Slip On Ankle Boot - €145 at Dune
KC 5mmbleed210x297.qxp_Layout 1 24/08/2018 12:20 Page 1
Ireland’s Most Luxurious Castle Wedding Venue
Kilronan Castle Estate & Spa BALLYFARNON, CO. ROSCOMMON.
Bring your dreams, We’ll do the rest.
All-Inclusive
Weddings
From €72pp
071 96 18000 enquiries@kilronancastle.ie www.kilronancastle.ie CASTLE HOTELS
Groom’s
Room Compiled by Peter Cole
Berry Purple
1904 Berry Floral Shirt €50 at Burton Menswear London
You Sir Suits
Stripy Short &
Grey Siut Scarf
Shirt and Shoes
Yellow stripe short sleeve revere
from Burtons Menswear
shirt €25 at River Island
Polo
Knitted
Weave knit polo €36 at Next
Biker Brown
Patter
Paisley
Light brown borg lined biker jacket €85 at River Island
Navy paisley Patter Loafer €50 at Nest
Canvas A Blank
RJR. John Rocha Canvas Holdall Bag £55 at Debenhams
112 I IWD Feature I Groom’s Room
Shorts Cargo
Woodcombe Cargo Short €55 at Crew Clothing
Win One of These Great Prizes January For our January Competition wedding Photographer dermot Byrne is giving one lucky bride the chance to get a massive 20% off any of his wedding packages. Dermot Byrne has an innovative and creative approach and yet he is still able to maintain his friendly manner and sense of fun that brings out that inner smile in all his brides and grooms. To enter this competition go to www.irishweddingdiary.ie during January Check out www.dermotbyrnephoto.ie
February during november dublin Bridal house are offering one lucky reader the chance to win a bridesmaid dress from their extensive bridesmaid range. Dublin bridal house are based in Rathfarnham village and they aim to provide their brides with an exceptional level of customer service in luxurious surroundings. You’ll love their collection and variety with samples dresses in sizes UK8-UK20 To enter this competition go to www.irishweddingdiary.ie during February Check out www.dublinbridalhouse.ie
March
in our March competition the annebrook house hotel gives you a chance to win 1 night Bed & Breakfast and dinner for Two in the award winning Old house restaurant The stunningly unique setting of Annebrook House Hotel, attention to detail and the personalisation of each individual wedding is what sets this award winning venue apart from the rest. You will fall in love with the beauty of this Georgian manor with it’s private entrance, cosy reading & drawing rooms, exclusive bar and distinct charm. To enter this competition go to www.irishweddingdiary.ie during March Check out www.www.annebrook.ie
To enter and for full details plus terms and conditions check out
www.irishweddingdiary.ie and answer the simple question
114 I IWD Feature I Competition 114 I IWD Feature I Competition
Groom’s
Room
Sucker
Compiled by Peter Cole
Seer
J by Jasper Conran White
Seersucker Stripe Jacket £99 at Debenhams
Holder Cash
The Wingback Cash Wallet holds 4-6 cards and up to 20 notes, in Tuscan leather. €67 at wingback.co.uk
Holdall
Jacket Dinner
Breast Double
Navy Dinner Suit and Shirt from Topman
Double breasted suit jacket €106 at Next
Nikko Holdall €85 at Dune
NO. 6 THE PLAZA SWORDS 01-8107453
42 DAWSON STREET DUBLIN 2 01-6772777
BENETTI WEDDING COLLECTIONS NOW INSTORE SUIT RETAIL AND HIRE WWW.PROTOCOLMENSWEAR.COM 116 I IWD Feature I Groom’s Room
Make Your Wedding
A Royal Affair‌ Let Us Sweep You Off Your Feet
The perfect backdrop for your treasured memories
www.royalmarine.ie Contact our dedicated wedding experts on: events@royalmarine.ie or 01 230 0030 Royal Marine Hotel | Marine Road | Dun Laoghaire | Dublin | A96 K063
Something Quirky Here’s a few suppliers who want to make your dream day a lit tle different
Love
Bubbles?
Ape, d a retrofit Piaggio z Bizz have create Love bubbles? Fiz .? ! cool eh… ve bubbles on tap custom-built to ser eptions, day-two rec nks e to cater for dri Travelling nationwid big day. e Wow factor to any , it brings a uniqu ebrations & BBQ’s
cel
ements. suit all party requir es are available to Tailormade packag ch favoured ate their own pea Guests can also cre yal Kir Ro e. Bellini or a classic z.ie. Email info@fizzbiz
Fire Guys
Sweet? Blooming
The Apple Blossoms are Ireland’s freshest vintage trio (with a twist!), colourfully crooning the classic sounds of the 1940s before powering through decades of all the best floor fillers and diva anthems. What sets these girls apart from others like them is their authentic interaction with the crowd and distinct bubbly and contagious energy, sure to leave an impression and a personal touch. The Apple Blossoms boast a lengthy and varied set list, and can adapt at a moment’s notice to suit the party. Whether it’s music for the ceremony, drinks reception, evening reception (or all of the above!), The Apple Blossoms are sure to deliver
ThoseFireguys are a performance troupe with a very simple philosophy: entertain the world, and have the time of your life while doing it! Based in Dublin, they have brought smiles, screams, cheers, and gasps to audiences of all ages around the world. Their current special offer boasts up to €200 off of a four-person (two fire performers, two drummers) Wedding Fire Show! ‘Weddings are our absolute favourite to do..! The atmosphere, the buzz, the fun..!’ ThoseFireguys’ dynamic show will make your guests laugh, cry, cheer, scream, and gasp, and will get them pumped for the party yet to come! More info at www.thosefireguys.com
118 I IWD Feature I Wedding Ideas
an unforgettable, one-of-a-kind experience!
Don’ t Wed miss our ding Fairs Janu
a Febr ry 6th uary 3rd A beautiful warm country house offering the perfect intimate location for your special day.
84 bedrooms and hosts weddings up to 250 guests 40 minutes south of Dublin city and opposite Powerscourt House and Gardens Open all year round and caters for full civil ceremonies Packages from €55.00 includes host of extras Call us today to discuss how we can help you say “I do”
Summerhill Country House • Tel: 01 2867928 • weddings@summerhillhousehotel.com • www.summerhillhousehotel.com
Something Quirky
A few more peo want to make yo ple who ur day a little differedream nt
Macramé Handmade
Grá agus Sonas Creations are a Dublin based company who provide unique intricate and breathtaking handmade macramé wedding arches and décor. With ready-made pieces for hire alongside a bespoke design service we will work with your ideas to fulfil your dreams of creating your perfect day. All are pieces are handcrafted with love and happiness and that’s what we want you to experience on your big day. https://www.etsy.com/ie/shop/Graagussonascreation
Felt Flowers
k n i ffl u C n i o C
CBCK Designs create beautiful felt flowers and décor for
World Coin Cufflinks make wedding
both your wedding day and your home. We
cufflinks out of old coins, which can be worn
specialise in designing the perfect image for your
by all male members of the wedding party. The
special day and showing off your unique style with stunning
bouquets,
boutonnieres,
centrepieces
and
website has coins from over 20 countries, and many of the coins used are no longer in circulation such as the
accessories. Every bouquet is personally designed and
Italian Lira, the Spanish Peseta, and the French Franc, and
handcrafted by the sisters so that it perfectly matches
we also have all of the old Irish coins, including the Irish
the couple’s vision and theme. From subtle and
threepence featuring the Irish Hare and the sixpence with
elegant, to bright and quirky, there is exquisite
the Irish wolfhound. We only use genuine coins, and
care and attention to detail in every
these are very rare as they went out of circulation
creation.
in 1968. www.worldcoincufflinks.com
120 I IWD Feature I Wedding Ideas
Win your Wedding with Só Hotels Your chance to win a €10,000 wedding with Só Hotels
R
ecently engaged couples will be in with a chance to win a €10,000 wedding with Só Hotels. Guests are invited to any of the Só Hotels’ upcoming wedding fairs, where they will be entered into the competition to win when they book in any of the five hotel locations. The Só Hotel group incorporates the Castletroy Park Hotel in Limerick, the Charleville Park Hotel County Cork, the Killeshin Hotel in Portlaoise, the Lough Rea Hotel and Spa, Galway, and most recently, the Athlone Springs Hotel in Westmeath.
Five lucky couples will win €1,000 off their
Charleville Park Hotel
wedding in each of the five locations, with
The Charleville Park Hotel team are committed
each couple then going through to the final
to the values of traditional hospitality and
with a chance to win their €10,000 wedding!
guarantee a warm welcome with a friendly
Couples will have the opportunity to customise
atmosphere,
their wedding to their own preferences and
celebrations will always take centre stage. The
personalities. Why not upgrade your wedding
Charleville Park Hotel team are delighted to
menu or perhaps have a barbecue the day after
have won Best Wedding Venue in Cork 2018 at
your wedding on us? Additional options include
the recent Brides of Limerick Awards.
where
your
Athlone Springs Hotel The latest addition to the Só Hotel group, the Athlone Springs Hotel, is coming into an exciting phase with many areas being refurbished in 2019 and beyond. Be the first to have your wedding in the transformed Athlone Springs Hotel, where the team will help you ensure that your new chapter is started in the best possible way.
wedding-day
Só Hotels The quality of service that each of our hotels
Wedding Room Décor and Draping, a Wedding Cake, a Chauffeur-Driven Car for the wedding
Killeshin Hotel
offer, combined with their dedicated staff, fine
couple and Flowers and Entertainment! We will
Whilst the Killeshin Hotel is contemporary and
food, unique features and special touches
work with the wedding couple to fully customise
modern in design, the team believe in tradition
that make a wedding day so special, are the
their day and make it the most special day of
and hope that with their wedding couples, they
main reasons that the hotels have garnered a
their lives.
can create a day that will be treasured forever.
fantastic reputation for weddings. The hotels
The Killeshin Hotel team are delighted to have
are 100% Irish family-owned and our weddings
Castletroy Park Hotel
been voted Top-Rated Wedding Venue in Laois
have that special magic that only a family-
The Castletroy Park Hotel is there not just
for 2017 by Wedding Dates.ie.
owned hotel can bring. Recently engaged couples can meet our award-winning wedding
to make this the best day of your life, but to create a day that your family and friends will
Lough Rea Hotel & Spa
teams at our upcoming wedding events and
remember for years. The hotel’s dedication and
The multi-award-winning Lough Rea Hotel and
find out about our superb bespoke wedding
service was awarded recently when they were
Spa is one of the most highly recommended
packages.
nominated the overall Best Venue at the Brides
and well-known wedding venues in Galway. The
For more information and to see how you can
of Limerick awards, which includes venues not
Rooftop Garden, with panoramic views over
win a fabulous wedding worth €10,000, visit
just in Limerick but in Cork, Clare & Tipperary
Loughrea Lake, is one area that sets the Lough
SóHotels.ie or attend any of the upcoming
also.
Rea Hotel & Spa apart from the rest.
Wedding Events below:
122 I IWD Feature I Win Your Wedding
Wedding Showcase D ates
HOTELS
Athlone Sp rings Hotel - Sun, 24th Castletroy Feb Park Hotel – Sat 12th & Su n, 13th Jan Charleville Park Hotel – Sun, 17th Feb Killeshin Hot el – Sun, 24 th Feb Lough Rea Hotel & Sp a – Sun, 10 th Feb
TO CELEBRAT E O U R O N E T H O U S AN DTH W E D D I N G AT SÓ H OTE L S W E ARE GI V I N G YO U A CHA NCE TO
Win
YOUR W E D D ING TO THE VALUE O F €10, 000
P LU S W I N € 1 , 0 0 0 O F F YO U R W E D D I N G AT E ACH O F O U R F I V E SÓ H OTE L S
Simply book your wedding in any of our five locations below and you will be entered into the draw to win your wedding reception to the value of €10,000! Five lucky couples will be chosen from each hotel and win €1000 off their wedding with one lucky winner going through to the final to win their wedding reception. *T&C’s Apply. For a full list of terms see www.sohotels.ie
Weddings With Style
TIMELESS
PERFECTION WEDDING SHOWCASE - 12TH & 13TH JANUARY 2019
WEDDING SHOWCASE - 10TH FEBRUARY, 2019 SÓ ELEGANT - Beautiful Ballroom with Seating for 100 to 350 Guests SÓ ROMANTIC - Stunning Views of Lough Rea Lake from the Rooftop Garden SÓ DELECTABLE - New Wedding Menus and New Executive Chef SÓ MEMORABLE - Your Wedding Team will Give You, Your Friends & Family a Day They Will Always Remember
(061) 33 55 66 | nfagan@castletroypark.ie | www.castletroypark.ie
(091) 880088 | sbrogan@loughreahotelandspa.com | www.loughreahotelandspa.com
www.thomassunderland.ie
22 Castle Street Carlow • Phone: +353 (0) 59 9142278 • Email: info@thomassunderland.ie
This family owned enchanted 18th Century Castle is the ideal venue to celebrate your wedding in style. Allow us to use our years of tradition in excellence to create the perfect ambience for your most special day. Sparkling chandeliers, deep wood furnishings & tapestries, roaring fires, crisp linen, bubbly champagne & silver candelabras merge to create a majestic atmosphere. Our Castle is the perfect location to capture those unforgettable wedding photos. We are a stone’s throw away from Killiney Hill, Coliemore Harbour & many other beautiful locations which provides perfect backdrops for your Wedding photos. Our beautifully manicured lawns & selection of rare trees & plants also offer stunning backdrops on the grounds of the Castle. Fitzpatrick Castle Hotel, Killiney, Co. Dublin. T: +353 1 230 5400. weddings@fitzpatricks.com www.fitzpatrickcastle.com
The Hair & Beauty Chalet Relax in your own home or hotel on the morning of your wedding while we take care of all your hair & make up for the special day!
Why not pamper yourself before the big day! Get the most radiant glow for your wedding day with our signature treatment “The Skinician Age Delay Glycolic Facial”. If your looking for superb results but the ultimate relaxation this is the treatment for you! Contact Amy or Stephanie on 085 742 7141 or 059 9158795 thehairandbeautychalet@gmail.com www.thehairandbeautychalet.com
s r a e ss
ng
brati
Cele
Yn Busine 0 1 i Hair & Beauty Chalet IWD Ad Winter 2017.indd 1
12/09/2017 10:21
Mother of the
BRIDE And occAsionweAr
Outfit by Social Occasions
Outfit by Gabriela Sanchez
Outfit by Luis Civit
Outfit by Linea Raffaelli
126 I IWD Feature I Mother of the Bride
Vanity Fair Stockists of • Condici • Rosa Clara • • Luis Civit • Veni Infantino • • Ispirato • Teresa Ripoll • • Mashiah • Fely Campo • Sara R + many more leading designers Specialists in Mother of the Bride/Groom Wedding Guests also catered for with leading designers Gina Bacconi , Daisy May, Diva, Aideen Bodkin and Caroline Kilkenny
Vanity Fair
The Courtyard Shopping Centre Newbridge, Co.Kildare Ph: 045 431905
www.vanityfair.ie
www.facebook.com/VanityFairBoutique
Mother of the
BRIDE And occAsionweAr
Outfit by Social Occasions
Outfit by Luis Civit
Outfit by Social Occasions
Outfit by Gabriela Sanchez
Outfit by Linea Raffaelli
128 I IWD Feature I Mother of the Bride
From Barcelona a Stunning collection of Mother of the Bride and Guest outfits. Available from premier boutiques throughout Ireland.
Amanda Nimmo Fashion Agency www.amandanimmo.com
Mother of the
BRIDE And occAsionweAr
Outfit by Luis Civit
Outfit by Social Occasions
Outfit by Gabriela Sanchez
Outfit by Gabriela Sanchez
Outfit by Linea Raffaelli
Outfit by Luis Civit
130 I IWD Feature I Mother of the Bride
23 South Main Street, Naas, Co. Kildare Phone 045 897172 Open Sundays 1 pm –5 pm
www.evita.ie
www.facebook.com/EvitaNaas
THE STYLE STUDIO
At Don’t Call Me Dear
Dedicated Occasion Wear Specialists
Don’t Call Me Dear 8 Mill Street Galway City Tel: 091 530760 www.dontcallmedear.com
A Made to Measure Service No 58. Fitzwilliam Square North, Dublin 2 Call 086 172 1563 E-mail: info@maireforkin.ie Web: www.maireforkin.ie
Mother of the
BRIDE And occAsionweAr
Occasions For All
Vanity Fair is one of Ireland’s
best-loved boutiques for mother of the bride/groom dresses and outfits and also designer wear for all occasions. Stocking classic labels such as Teresa Ripoll, Caroline Kilkenny and Aideen Bodkin as well as all the traditional mother-of-the-bride favourites such as Condici, Rosa Clara, Sara R and Luis Civit, a visit to their boutique in Newbridge, County Kildare, is a must. You’ll be spoilt for choice, with something for every style, size and budget! You are sure to find that ‘special something special’. Tel: 045 431905. www.vanityfair.ie Like them on Facebook and keep up to date.
Elegance Timeless
Occasionwear Chic Stylish
Marians, Boyle have been dressing stylish brides for over
60 years, and are delighted to be adding fabulous new designers to their mother of bride/groom collections for
Macbees, Killarney is a destination boutique for those seeking that
2019. The fashion-buyers brief, at Marians, is to source
unique look for any occasion. As mother of the bride or groom, you’ll
glamorous, contemporary fashion of classical cut and
be spoilt for choice with expertly curated collections, which mix timeless
design, that is both well-tailored and affordable.
elegance and a fashion-forward flair for those who dare to be different.
Providing great fashion advice on dressing for your shape, size, lifestyle and wardrobe, a fantastic variety
2019 trends for MOB/MOG include embellishment, vibrant tones and
of labels guarantee smart styling for sophisticated
tailoring, and can be found in Macbees perennially favourite brands –
ladies up to size 24. For the lovely mums, Marians
Max Mara Studio, Riani, Paule Ka, Fely Campo, Carla Ruiz, Veni Infantino,
is a must-visit store for a top selection of chic
Moskada, Linea Raffaelli and Luis Civit, as well as home-grown talents
occasion wear including hats, headpieces and
Aideen Bodkin, Heidi Higgins, FeeG, Caroline Kilkenny and jewellery by
jewellery. Marians, in business since 1954,
MoMuse and Vivien Walsh. Macbees celebrates real women with real
are reliable, dedicated fashionistas who
style, in stocking sizes from 8 to 20.
love fashion and have fun with it. Tel: 071 9662031 or visit www.marians.ie to see
All this and more can be explored in the luxurious surroundings of Macbees, with friendly, experienced and enthusiastic staff on hand to help find the perfect outfit, stunning accessories and a choice of bespoke headwear. Follow Macbees on Facebook or browse their website: www. macbees.ie.
132 I IWD Feature I Mother of the Bride
their new collections.
Sineads BOUTIQUE
Wedding Guests Mother of the Bride Mother of the Groom Casuals Occasion Accessories
DARE TO BE DIFFERENT www.macbees.ie (064) 6633622
/macbees @macbeeskillarney
MARIANS A TRADITION OF EXCELLENCE
Tel: 061 33 96 96 Salmon Weir, Annacotty, Limerick.
Bridge Street, Boyle, Co. Roscommon. Phone: +353-(0)71-9662031
Web: www.marians.ie
Open: Monday - Saturday 10.00am - 5.30pm Sunday 1pm - 5pm • Sizes 6 - 22 Deposits taken
www.sineadsboutique.com
Mother of the
BRIDE And occAsionweAr
Fashionistas Calling
La Crème Boutique, Gorey, Co. Wexford, will leave you honing in on its vast selection of hand-picked desirables for mother of the bride/groom and wedding guests, versatile daywear and fabulous
Fuller Figure
footwear all waiting to tempt the discerning fashionistas in this heavenly haven of high style. The highly trained team of stylists at La Crème take pride in doing things a little bit differently, with not only astounding outfits and accessories fit for any occasion, but important add-on details and a top-class level of styling expertise. They will help
Dreamy Curves in Bray, Co. Wicklow are now stocking a beautiful
you pick the outfit that will match the theme of the
range of dresses for the mother of the bride and groom, wedding
wedding to help you truly stand out from the crowd
guests, a day at the races, a cruise or other special occasions. They
on that special day.
have carefully chosen a range of designers and have picked dresses from their collections designed to flatter the fuller figure. They stock
Visit www.lacremeboutique.com today to view the
sizes from 18 to 30 and a range of complementary fascinators, hats,
collections or shop online.
shoes and bags. Their chosen designers are Veromia Dressed Up, Jomhoy, Anoola, Gina Bacconi, Kirsten Krog, Ann Balon and Lexus shoes.
Something Special Don’t Call Me Dear is a
must for anyone looking for something special to wear for the big day . Situated in Galway City , this store has becom e the leading dedicated boutique for occasion wear in the West of Ireland. Stocking labe ls from throughout Europe are complemented by a huge millinery and hat hire collection, as well as a shoe boutique. The DCMD girls really can look after you from hea d to toe.
With in-house stylists as well as their own seamstress service, DCM D really have thought of everything. Pay the m a visit and see for yourself! With rela xed surroundings and attention to offering the very best in customer service, the DCMD exp erience is a must. Stocking sizes 8 to 28, Tel: 091 530760. www.dontcallmedear.co m
www.dreamycurves.ie Tel: 01 2765500
Limerick Lady in
Sinead’s Boutique is situated in the Annacotty area of Limerick, which is conveniently located beside the M7 motorway. Many people travel considerable distances to be served by Sinead and her highly qualified staff, and once you have visited, you will understand why. Sinead’s boutique stocks a vast range of international labels that are especially suitable for mother of the bride / groom and occasion wear. Save yourself time and stress by visiting Sinead’s. You are guaranteed a very enjoyable experience in truly elegant and modern surroundings.
134 I IWD Feature I Mother of the Bride
Tel: 061 33 96 96. www.sineadsboutique.com
Stockists Rep. of Ireland. Don’t Call Me Dear, Galway Evita Boutique, Naas Isobel, Adare Jennys Boutique, Dunshaughlin & Malahide Jon Claire, Cork Kathleens, Sligo La crème, Gorey Lynch Fashions, Banagher Macbees, Killarney Mcelhennys, Ballybofey Northern Ireland Blush Boutique, Belfast Gasp Boutique, Armagh Katriona, Banbridge Magowans, Ballynahinch The Fashion House, Margherfelt T HThe E Queen B, Five Mile Town The Wardrobe, Ballyclare F A S H I O N G R O U P
T H E
F A S H I O N G R O U P
Tel: 0044 141 221 7666 mandy@mandybarrfashion.co.uk www.mandybarrfashion.co.uk.
Mother of the
BRIDE And occAsionweAr
Beautiful & Unique
Timeless Fashion Chic
Statement
pieces and timeless Featuring beautifully tailored ction has exquisite colle classics, Maire Forkin’s 2019 h she carefully designs detailing in luxury fabrics, whic to flatter the figure! who has worked in UK Maire, a designer and tailor of years, is best known fashion houses for a number and building shape into a for her emphasis on structure chic, clean-cut designs silhouette without corsetry. Her orary mother of the bride are ideal for today’s contemp do not want the typical and mother of the groom, who also dresses ladies in mother of the bride outfit. She Oscars, the races and both the UK and Ireland for the for all special occasions. e-to-measure for each Maire’s collection, which is mad intment at her studio client can be viewed by appo in. She also offers Dubl in Fitzwilliam Square North, ts who want something unique individual styling to clien different. studio at 58 Fitzwilliam For an appointment at her Maire on 086 172 1563 Square North, Dublin, contact in.ie. or email her at info@mairefork
Contemporary Classic and
A visit to Evita Boutique, Naas, is sure to
cater for all your mother of the bride and Design Centre has been a leading force in Irish fashion, dressing Ireland’s most stylish women for over three decades. For the contemporary woman who loves simplicity and elegance, Design Centre is the ‘go to‘ destination in Dublin for those timeless covetable classics. Voted ‘Best Irish Offering’ in the Image Boutique Awards 2018 and winners of the XPOSÉ ‘XFA‘ Fashion Awards 2017 ‘Best Occasional Boutique‘, this team of fashion experts will help put together a truly beautiful and uniquely individual look for that big occasion. Design Centre Stocks the bestselling exclusive ‘Tricotine ‘ label along with the very best of Irish designers including Caroline Kilkenny, Catriona Hanly, Helen Mc Alindin, Deborah Veale, Sookyoung Song, the iconic Philip Treacy, and bespoke in house Milliner Aoife Harrison. Tel: (01) 679 5718 www.thedesigncentre.ie
136 I IWD Feature I Mother of the Bride
groom needs. Whether you are looking for a classic or contemporary style, you will be spoilt for choice in this leading boutique. Evita stocks an extensive range of brands in sizes 8 to 26 and have a wide range of dresses, separates and casuals for any occasion. Their passionate and experienced staff will be more than happy to help you chose that special outfit. Follow them on Facebook to keep up to date with their latest collections. Open Monday to Saturday 10–5:30 and Sundays from 1pm to 5pm. Tel: 045897172 www.evita.
Bridal Brooch Bouquets Make the Memory Last with an Individually Hand Crafted Satin Rose and Brooch Bridal Bouquet by Ann Cassidy
Contact 01-4501533 • Mobile 0879776441 www.bridalbouquet.ie
Cassidy Brooch Bouquets Spring 2018.indd 1
Marleigh House, 82/83 Main Street, 05/12/2017 Bray, Co. Wicklow A98 H5N3 Tel: 086 807 5312 / 01 276 5500 www.dreamycurves.ie
Design Centre has been dressing Ireland’s most stylish women for over 30 years. We stock the very best of Irish and international labels including the iconic Philip Treacy, the exclusive award winning Tricotine label, Catriona Hanly, Helen Mc Alinden, Synan O’Mahony and much more.
20:06
Stockist of : Kirsten Krog, Gina Bacconi, Ann Balon, Anoola and Jomhoy
Mother-of-the-bride size 18-30 • Evening Gowns and Debs size 14-30
01 6795718 | 01 6795 863 Design Centre, Powerscourt Townhouse Centre, 59 South William Street, Dublin 2 Email: designcentredublin@gmail.com www.thedesigncentre.ie
AWARDS As voted by Readers of Irish Wedding Diary Magazine
Nominate your Favourite Bridal Supplier in the 2019 Irish Wedding Diary Magazine Awards Now is your chance to reward those wedding suppliers who have gone the extra mile to make sure your wedding day is truly the best day of your lives.
Nominations are now open in all categories of wedding suppliers. The Top 5 in each category on February 14th will go through to a vote off with a winner in each category chosen on March 14th.
To nominate your favourite suppler go here
www.irishweddingdiary.ie/awards
WHY WAIT?
THE BEAUTIFUL SEAFIELD HOTEL & SPA RESORT EXUDES CONTEMPORARY ELEGANCE IN A MAGICAL SETTING ON BALLYMONEY SHORE WITH ITS OWN PRIVATE BEACH. EXCHANGE VOWS AND CELEBRATE IN STYLE IN ONE OF FOUR BESPOKE SPACES.
JUST AN HOUR FROM SOUTH DUBLIN, SEAFIELD OFFERS PERSONAL SERVICE, GORGEOUS STYLING AND WORLD CLASS FACILITIES TO MAKE YOUR WEDDING A TRULY MEMORABLE EXPERIENCE.
YOUR GUESTS, ALL OF THEM, KNEW YOU’D COME UP WITH SOMETHING SPECIAL. AND SO YOU HAVE.
SEAFIELD HOTEL & SPA RESORT ballymoney, gorey, co. wexford
t: 053 9485107 e: events@seafieldhotel.com w: www.seafieldhotel.com
Location: Cabra Castle Due to its idyllic location location and superb range of accommodation, Cabra Castle is one of the leading luxury hotels in Ireland and is also one of the best-known castle wedding venues in Ireland. It has been the venue of choice for many society and celebrity weddings due to its large capacity.
Wander through the magnificent reception rooms, find a quiet corner or fireside to relax with a book, or just enjoy the atmosphere in one of the best-known Castle hotels in Ireland. Period features and furnishings create an authentic, old-world charm and a long tradition of warm and friendly service make Cabra Castle the perfect retreat from the pace of modern living. Kingscourt, Co. Cavan A82 EC64 Ireland Tel: +353 42 966 7030 Email: sales@cabracastle.com
Photography: White Amber Photography Web: www.whiteamberphotography.com Tel: +353-87-7656706
Hair: Marina @Bridal By Nikki Kavanagh Make Up: Danielle @Bridal By Nikki Kavanagh Tel: +3531 8254338 www.bridalbynikkikavanagh.com
140 I IWD Bridal I Cabra Cast;e
Cabra Castle Photoshoot Spring 2019.indd 140
30/01/2019 07:33
Castle Bridal Photoshoot in Cabra Castle Photography by White Amber Photography
Dress by Amsha Bridal Ricehill, Crossdoney, Co. Cavan. Phone: 086-780 5957 Email: amshabridal@gmail.com Web� www.amshabridal.ie
Cabra Castle I IWD Bridal I 141
Dress by Amsha Bridal 142 I IWD Bridal I Cabra Cast;e
Ricehill, Crossdoney, Co. Cavan. Tel: 086-780 5957 Email: amshabridal@gmail.com WEB: www.amshabridal.ie
Dress by Amsha Bridal Ricehill, Crossdoney, Co. Cavan. Tel: 086-780 5957 Email: amshabridal@gmail.com WEB: www.amshabridal.ie
Cabra Castle I IWD Bridal I 143
Dress by La Bella Sposa 144 I IWD Bridal I Cabra Cast;e
Swords, Co Dublin Tel: 01 8075712 www.labellasposa.ie info@labellasposa.ie
Dress by La Bella Sposa Swords, Co Dublin Tel: 01 8075712 www.labellasposa.ie info@labellasposa.ie
Cabra Castle I IWD Bridal I 145
Dress by La Bella Sposa 146 I IWD Bridal I Cabra Cast;e
Swords, Co Dublin Tel: 01 8075712 www.labellasposa.ie info@labellasposa.ie
Dress by La Bella Sposa Swords, Co Dublin Tel: 01 8075712 www.labellasposa.ie info@labellasposa.ie
Cabra Castle I IWD Bridal I 147
Dress by Edel Tuite Design Award Winning Bridal Designer Upper Mell, Drogheda, Co. Louth. Tel: 041 987 2951 Email: edel@edeltuitedesign.com Web: www.edeltuitedesign.com
148 I IWD Bridal I Cabra Cast;e
Dress by Edel Tuite Design Award Winning Bridal Designer Upper Mell, Drogheda, Co. Louth. Tel: 041 987 2951 Email: edel@edeltuitedesign.com Web: www.edeltuitedesign.com
Cabra Castle I IWD Bridal I 149
Dress by Edel Tuite Design Award Winning Bridal Designer Upper Mell, Drogheda, Co. Louth. Tel: 041 987 2951 Email: edel@edeltuitedesign.com Web: www.edeltuitedesign.com
150 I IWD Bridal I Cabra Cast;e
Photograph by Thompson Photography Photography by Thomspon Photography
Your Wedding Journey Begins Here
Paul Callaghan Photography
Carrickmacross Road, Kingscourt, Co Cavan, Ireland www.cabracastle.com | Tel: 00353 42 9667030 | Email: marketing@cabracastle.com www.romanticcastlesireland.com
White Amber Photography
www.whiteamberphotography.com info @whiteamberphotography.com Phone 00353(0)87-7656706
Exclusive Destination Wedding Photographer Ireland & Worldwide
Š - ERIC MOLIMARD PHOTOGRAPHY
Your Perfect Wedding Venue Set in the beautiful Ashford Estate with spectacular views across shimmering Lough Corrib, it’s hard to imagine a more romantic setting for your special day. The Lodge at Ashford Castle is available for both exclusive and non-exclusive use. We can accommodate wedding parties with up to 180 guests and have 64 elegant bedrooms and suites for you and your guests, with additional bedrooms available at Ashford Castle. For all enquiries please contact: claire@thelodgeac.com
Cong, County Mayo, Ireland T: +353 94 954 5400 www.thelodgeac.com
Irish Wedding Diary 210 x 297.indd 2
11/11/2016 13:59
The Real Wedding of
Deni & Dermot In Malta With Sarah Young Wedding Planners on 24th of August 2018
D
ermot and I met in London in 2013 where we both lived after moving from Ireland, and Bulgaria a few years earlier. A month or so later, we had our first date at Polpo – a lovely Venetian restaurant – where we discovered our shared interests in Design and Architecture.
It was important to us to find a location that was accessible from London, Dublin, Sofia, Vienna, Milan & Brussels, where we had relatives and friends. Initially we looked at locations on the Black Sea coast in Bulgaria, where Deni is from, but it proved difficult to fly all the guests there. We then looked at wedding locations in
Dermot proposed in the gardens of the
We didn’t want to spend a long time planning
Portugal, Spain, Italy and Greece but couldn’t
beautiful Art Deco Eltham Palace in London
a wedding but we did want something special,
find the right place. We came across Malta by
on a spring morning. I said ‘yes’ and then
intimate and outdoors.
chance. Neither of us had been there but it
remained speechless for about 6 hours – a first!
154 I IWD Travel I Wedding Abroad
appeared to be an island rich in culture, history
and good weather. We took a quick trip to Malta
knew that it was either Malta or going back to
Sarah gave us great confidence and we really wouldn’t have had the wedding we dreamt of without her and her team.
the start – it was an easy choice.
to meet the priest, taste the food, and
to see some venues. As we wanted to organise a destination wedding in five months, we needed not just a wedding planner, but a good one! On this trip we met Sarah Young and her team. She had impeccable reviews and she was also working with two of the venues we liked. After visiting Malta and meeting Sarah we both
find an after-party venue. We sorted everything else by email and phone. We relied heavily on Sarah’s advice, her trusted suppliers and caterers. She gave us great confidence and we really wouldn’t have had the wedding we wanted without her team. We wanted to have an after-party on the beach to take advantage of being in the middle of the Mediterranean. We spent a day visiting every beach on the Maltese coast in search of the magical place when we stumbled Sarah and Michelle were so great, we only had
upon Singita in Għajn Tuffieħa Bay. It
to go back to Malta once before the wedding –
was everything we wanted: the whole
Wedding Abroad I IWD Travel I 155
alcove beach and bar just for us, with a fire and
The most meaningful part of the day was the
white blankets and pillows around it. On the
speeches where everyone spoke kindly and not
way back we even found a shop that sold cases
too long, except for the best man who took the
of “Rakia” (national Bulgarian alcohol) and a
opportunity to tell a few stories as you would
Bulgarian baker who made the bread for the
expect. Dermot’s best man was John, his friend
ritual on the wedding day.
from growing up in Malahide and living in London so had 30 years of material to work
The wedding day itself was tremendous fun.
with!
We were married in a beautiful baroque Maltese villa within a spectacular walled garden; the perfect setting for an outdoor wedding. Many of our friends and family made a mini holiday out of the trip. Everyone really enjoyed
We were married in a beautiful baroque Maltese villa within a spectacular walled garden dresses. I also got a feather and gold-leaf crown
the food, the bar, the dancing and the villa
from an independent designer, to complete the
and gardens. We had lots of amazing pictures full of atmosphere captured by one of Sarah’s
The most emotional part was the ceremony
Thracian look. Dermot wore a dark green suit
photographers, who happened to be an Irish
and the readings: Dermot turning around to
with a gold tie, which referenced the colours
man living in Malta, who has a distinctive and
see me in my dress for the first time...
of Eire.
The dress was a surprise in gold. I only went to
Directly after the wedding we went to Gozo,
Close to midnight we moved to the beach bar
two shops, whose great style I knew through
a smaller quiet island above Malta, for a few
in Għajn Tuffieħa Bay. The Irish sang songs on
work. I went dress shopping with my best man
days to unwind. We are planning a January
the coach and the party continued at the beach
(Yes, I had a best man instead of a maid of
honeymoon in Guatemala and Belize where
where we went on singing, eating, drinking
honour). I chose a dress called ‘The Goddess’
we want to climb volcanoes, see the Mayan
around the fire and swimming in the sea.
whose front resembles Bulgarian national
temples and lie on Caribbean beaches.
natural style.
All photos (except beach photo above) by Shane P. Watts Photography
156 I IWD Travel I Wedding Abroad
★★
HHHHH Five Star WeddingS in Malta With
EvErything” ran so smoothly and that is down to you and your wondErful tEam KarEn cassidy & william collins
sarah is a fantastic wEdding plannEr. shE is so profEssional and EfficiEnt shE ExcEls at what shE doEs dEnisE and william o’nEill
your sErvicE is sEcond to nonE, profEssional, friEndly, prEcisE, and thoughtful JEnnifEr watson & david ravEn
The Heart of a
Happy Honeymoon
Of all the holidays you will ever take, this is the one where the memories will last forever. So don’t go it alone, it’s too important. So, let a tour operator like Trailfinders take all the planning off your hands, from start to finish, leaving you free to prepare for your big day. Every year, more than 7,000 couples choose
They also negotiate special offers exclusively
Trailfinders to inspire them. Trailfinder can
for honeymooners that you shouldn’t miss out
open doors that are otherwise closed and
on, from a complimentary bottle of champagne
they’ll include many unique and memorable
to help you celebrate, to reduced rates, room
experiences – whether you’re looking to stay at
upgrades and even free nights; they’ll ensure
the most stylish hotels in the hippest locations,
you have the honeymoon you deserve.
Call 01 881 4918, pop in for a chat or visit trailfinders.ie/honeymoons.
celebrate with a romantic candlelit dinner on a far-flung beach, or splash out on a stay in the
South Africa often tops the charts - many
ultimate honeymoon suite – their specialists
honeymooners choose to combine it with
can help you every step of the way.
the beautiful beaches of the Indian Ocean or the glitz and glamour of a short stay in Dubai. Southeast Asia is also hugely popular with Thailand, Bali and Vietnam making many couples’ wishlists. Perhaps you’d like to explore Australia’s Great Barrier Reef, tour New Zealand’s South Island or do a classic California road trip before relaxing on the white sands of
They know you’re busy so why not make use of their ‘Honeymoons by Appointment’ service. This allows you to talk through your ideas with a consultant so they can start investigating your options before your appointment in one of their travel centres.
a Mexican beach – it’s all possible! Trailfinders has travel centres in Dublin, Cork, No two honeymoons are the same, so don’t worry if you’ve yet to make up your mind as Trailfinders has dedicated honeymoon consultants on hand to help.
158 I IWD Travel I Honeymoons
Limerick and Belfast which are open seven days a week: Monday - Friday 9am-7pm Saturday 9am-6pm
Sunday 10am-6pm.
Trailfinders Honeymoon Wishlist
Honeymoon Top Tips Trailfinders has over 45 years experience of organising honeymoons all over the world. Here’s a few gems of wisdom they’ve picked up over the years to help things go smoothly... Sydney Opera
House
d
Thailan
Burj Khalifa , Dubai
ridge, Gate B Golden
co
ncis San Fra
At a time when finances can easily be stretched by a wedding, it’s comforting to know there is a very easy way to give your friends and family the chance to help your honeymoon dreams come true. A Trailfinders Honeymoon Wishlist can be set up
Maldive
s
at any time, even before you’ve made your travel plans. The service is completely free of charge and is your personal crowd funding site. Your guests can share your excitement, keep up to date with your wedding and honeymoon plans, make a contribution and post their congratulations. Trailfinders will provide you with stylish guest cards that you can use to let everyone know your preference for the ‘gift of travel’ and they’ll alert you by email each time your guests contribute. They’ll also send an automated thank you to your friends and family, and you can send a personalised e-card if you wish. What’s more, to help you on your way, Trailfinders will contribute the first €100 towards your Honeymoon Wishlist. The €100 will be credited when you initially set up your Honeymoon Wishlist with them and can be used towards your honeymoon booking, provided you have had at least one other contribution from your guests. So break with tradition - instead of unwrapping Egyptian cotton sheets, enjoy a stay in your chosen luxury hideaway, knowing it will mean as much to your friends and family as it does to you. It’s so easy - speak to one of their consultants on 01 881 4918 or check out the Trailfinders Honeymoon Wishlist at trailfinders.ie/wishlist.
Book Early Flights can get booked up a long way in advance - especially over summer or Christmas, So once you have a wedding date decided, get your honeymoon booked. With Trailfinders, you can book your honeymoon
Stopovers
with a deposit, with full payment normally only
If you are travelling long-haul, consider
needed two months before the big day.
breaking your journey midway for a couple of nights, allowing you to recharge the batteries
Take Your Time
and arrive at your final destination rested.
After all the excitement of the ‘big day’, you certainly won’t want to be rushing off anywhere
Think Ahead
at the crack of dawn. So if you get married on a
Pre-book as much as possible so you don’t have
Saturday, try and book a Sunday afternoon or
to worry when you are away. For example,
evening flight. You might even want to consider
enquire about meal plans at hotels where you
a Monday departure in order to avoid any last
have long stays or ask about vehicle hire if you
minute rush.
are keen to do some exploring.
Take it Easy
Special Offers
Don’t underestimate the physical and emotional
Remember to tell Trailfinders your holiday
exhaustion resulting from a hectic lead-up to
is your honeymoon from the outset. Many
the wedding and the excitement of the day
hotels provide special offers exclusively for
itself. Make sure you factor in lots of relaxation
honeymooners, from reduced rates and free
time, especially when you first arrive, and don’t
nights to romantic dinners or spa treatments.
bite off more than you can chew by planning a
Their travel consultants will help you choose
jam-packed itinerary.
the best value offer to suit you.
Honeymoons I IWD Travel I 159
Sign up to TRAILFINDERS
Honeymoon Wishlist and we’ll contribute €100 to your honeymoon.
When only award-winning travel will do 5 LUX* SOUTH ARI ATOLL MALDIVES
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• Stunning island retreat • 2 miles of white sand beach • Wonderful LUX* Me Spa • Five bars and eight restaurants
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For exclusive offers, information on our honeymoon wishlist, or to request your free honeymoon brochure
Call 01 881 4918 • Pop in for a chat • Visit trailfinders.ie/honeymoons
Prices are per person ‘from’ prices based on double share, subject to availability & valid for selected May & June 2019 departures. Trailfinders is licensed by the Commission for Aviation Regulation, TA 0542.
03281 Irish Wedding Diary Spring Ad_ 210x297mm.indd 1
23/11/2018 15:52
WEDDINGTRAVEL HONEYMOONS & WEDDINGS ABROAD Compiled by Alex Joyce
Honeymoon
Reunion Film Stars & Five Stars
The renowned Sofitel Legend Metropole in Hanoi is no stranger to honeymooners since Charlie Chaplin stayed here after he eloped with Paulette Goddard in the early 1930s. You’ll be in good company if you honeymoon here as many stars of Hollywood, Royalty and Presidents make this their hotel of choice when in Hanoi. A delightful mix of Colonial European styles with an oriental twist, the hotel is constantly upgrading to lead the way in five-star luxury in Asia. Following a top-to-toe renovation, the Metropole’s new Angelina Restaurant, which opened its doors on 15 September, is turning the tide on Hanoi’s entertainment and culinary scene.. The bar, lounge and restaurant, which features a brand new concept, a new chef as well as a completely different top quality menu, has its sights set on becoming the capital’s most sought-after venue. You can look forward to a selection of hand-crafted cocktails, an exceptional wine list as well as the most interesting whisky offering in Vietnam. Honeymoon Reunion
Located in the Mascarene Archipelago in the Indian Ocean, Reunion Island – a French overseas department – offers travellers the exoticism of a tropical island in the Indian Ocean. At the crossroads of European, African and Asian cultures, Reunion is a true melting pot.
Wonderful Honeymoon Sri Lanka has everything the adventurous honeymooner could desire. Not only does it have miles of beaches to unwind and relax on but you’ll also have ancient ruins to explore, majestic wildlife including elephants, crocodiles and the odd leopard to view, beautifully exotic cuisine to tantalise your taste buds, and a wonderfully welcoming people to share your time with. You can also treat yourselves to some luxurious five-star accommodation to treat yourselves such as the Anantara Peach Haven Tangalle Resort. Boasting a truly unique location, Anantara Peace Haven is the only resort in Tangalle to be nestled on a rocky outcrop, along a secluded stretch of Sri Lanka’s ruggedly beautiful southern coast. Naturally exclusive, our secret hideaway offers a tranquil escape to get away from it all. For travellers with a sense of adventure, our resort is your gateway to the island’s plethora of sacred heritage sites, the colourful traditions of local life, and vast national parks of free-roaming wildlife. Honeymoon in ocean-view luxury with a private wine dinner and romantic in-room surprises. This could also be the venue for the ultimate wedding abroad where you could follow Sri Lankan dancers and drummers down an aisle of golden sand to an arch of white silk and tropical flowers and say “I do” in a ceremony of traditional island rituals. For more information, see tangalle.anantara.com
Honeymoons I IWD Travel I 161
In Tuscany and Le March
Your Dream Italian Wedding Awaits
Italy has always been a firm favourite with Irish couples who dream of getting married abroad. Tuscany, in particular, has proved the most popular destination for brides seeking an exclusive, authentic Italian setting for their wedding as well as a dream honeymoon destination for people who truly love the Italian way of life. Its picturesque hilltop towns, rolling landscapes of vineyards and olive groves, the historic cities of Florence, Pisa and Sienna plus beautiful sandy beaches are a wedding photographer’s dream. Just two hours’ flight from Dublin, stylish
With this in mind, we sent our reporter to
seaside resorts, sleepy country villages where
have a look at some properties in Tuscany that
time has stood still, and cites filled with art,
can complete the idyllic Tuscany wedding. We
heritage and stunning architecture mean there
centred around the beautiful Tuscan city of
is something to keep all your guests busy in the
Sienna and found three gorgeous properties
lead up to your big day. Add wonderful wines,
that would make a perfect wedding venue and
delicious cuisine and beautiful Italian sunshine
a dream honeymoon. We also headed to Le
to the package and you’ll find your RSVPs will
Marche a unspoilt and undiscovered regions of
be flying back so fast with the ‘yes’ box ticked.
Italy and found a magic place for your wedding.
162 I IWD Travel I Weddings Abroad
T
he first port of call was Borgo Pignano,
We were efficiently checked in and quickly
I met with Oriol Juve deYebra, the General
a beautifully restored 18th-century
shown to our beautifully appointed suite
Manager, who told me that the wedding party
villa on the site of an ancient Etruscan
on the second floor of the main villa. All the
would use every part of the grounds during
house,
rooms in the villa are individually styled in the
their day. Normally the ceremony or blessing
cottages, maisonettes and farmhouses, which
unique rustic charm of Tuscany, containing
would take place in front of the old church just
now house elegant accommodation for you and
dark woods, vaulted ceilings and terracotta
to the left of the main villa, with the ceremony
your guests in authentic Tuscan style. Set in
floors; some even have original frescoes. None
table at the foot of the steps leading up to the
hamlet,
complete
with
a
manor
over 750 acres of woodland, ponds and small
church. After the ceremony, the happy couple
lakes, the estate organically grows not only
are spoilt for choice as to where to take their
most of the ingredients for the hotel’s two excellent restaurants but also for many of the soaps and beauty products in the bathrooms and the spa.
The wedding banquet is set out on the lawn in front of the villa,
wedding vows: from the arches and columns, and vaulted ceilings in the main villa, to the stunning gardens or swimming pools with the Tuscan landscape as the backdrop. While the photography is happening, the guests
As we parked the car and walked along the gravel path through the landscaped English
of the rooms have a TV, which is a welcome
walk through the scented gardens at the back
garden with terraces and lawns, we found
development; with such a beautiful estate,
of the hotel, where cocktails are served and
one of the many secluded viewing areas with
set in one of the more picturesque regions
they then join the happy couple on the lawn
wooden benches where we took in the stunning
in Europe, it would be almost a sin to sit in a
outside the restaurant with views over the pool
views. The lush rolling vineyards in the valley
room watching ’Corrie’. If you do need a fix
into the valley below for pre-dinner drinks.
below leading to the hills and mountains
of your favourite soap or sport event, the WiFi
The wedding banquet is set out on the lawn
beyond were all bathed in the soft Tuscan
here is great and you should be able to stream
in front of the villa, where guests are placed
sunlight. Slowly, the serenity of the landscape
your show. The cottages and maisonettes on
at a long table, where the food is served as
erased the stress of the long and winding drive
the site are perfect for family groups with their
the sun sets and then, under a starlit sky with
from Bologna and I could feel my shoulders
own fully functional kitchens and are just as
open air chandeliers casting a warm light over
loosen, my breath ease and my heartbeat slow
elegantly furnished as the main villa.
proceedings. Finally, the happy couple and their
down. I was ready for my Tuscan adventure.
guests make their way to the courtyard, where they can dance the night away. Oriol explained that the couple must hire the whole property to ensure that regular guests don’t interfere with the wedding and visa-versa, and weddings are normally a two-day event with either a pre-wedding meal the night before or a postwedding barbecue the following day. See more at : www.borgopignano.com
Weddings Abroad I IWD Feature I 163
M
y next stop on the journey was
some imposing cypress trees. This venue is on
Jesse, the General Manager, gave me a tour of
Castello di Vicarello, a sensitively
a smaller scale than Borgo Pignano but is no
the estate and explained how the happy couple
restored
hotel.
less impressive. Just seven suites make up this
are intimately involved in planning all the
Owners, Carlo and Aurora Bacchesci Berti
hotel but each is exquisitely decorated with
details of the wedding. With only seven suites,
live on the top floor suite of the castle with
an eclectic mix of antiques and artefacts from
the whole of the castle is taken up with the
their family and their attention to detail and
Europe and the Far East, all hand-picked by
immediate family but surrounding villages have
dedication in restoring this wonderful castle
Carlo and Aurora. We stayed in Suite Vicario,
plenty of accommodation for all your guests,
boutique
castle
which used to be the private residence of the priest of the estate. The suite has an immense living area with a large open fireplace and a large Indonesian four-poster bed, while the bedroom has an enormous wooden bed with a terracotta brick floor, and leads through to a
Most of the food is grown on the estate and prepared in the ancient stone kitchen
luxurious bathroom, with a hand-made copper bathtub. Each window has a beautiful view.
and taxis and busses are available to get your guests to and from the venue. The ceremony
Most of the food is grown on the estate and
itself is set up on the lawn, with the stunning
prepared in the ancient stone kitchen at the
castle as the backdrop on one side, and the
heart of the castle. In keeping with the convivial
meticulous gardens of lavender, climbing roses
nature of this venue, dining is done around a
and ancient olive trees on the other. Below that,
shows in every element of this wonderful
large table where you get to meet and share
the rolling Tuscan countryside unfolds under a
venue. Like many of these estates, the castle
dinner with the other guests in the castle. If
Tuscan sun that bathes this stunning landscape
is located at the end of a rather tricky gravel
you’d like something a little more romantic, you
in a golden glow right across to the sliver of
road, which seems to be leading nowhere until
can also choose to dine by candlelight under
the Adriatic Sea on the horizon. It’s hard to
you get buzzed through a farmer’s gate and the
the stars on the grassy terrace with 360°-views
imagine a more stunning setting for your dream
stunning castle emerges around a bend, behind
of the surrounding countryside.
wedding. See more at: castellodivicarello.com
164 I IWD Travel I Weddings Abroad
W
hen we left Castello di Vicarello,
At the heart of Follonico is its family of animals
When we visited, they were just finishing the
we headed to our final Tuscan
who greet guests with enthusiasm. Geese pace
landscaping around a new swimming pool,
destination – Follonico – a truly
elegantly around the pond, whilst sheep, hens
which is hidden away from the main house but
Tuscan
to
and dogs wander around the sloping lawn.
enjoys magnificent views over the surrounding
Castello di Vicarello, this venue has limited
Resident cats doze in the dappled shade and
countryside.
accommodation
the donkey and horses graze in the paddock
authentic
farmhouse.
with
just
six
Similar
individually
decorated suites but this property is on a much
near the vegetable garden.
While Follonico might not have the wow factor of the previous two properties, it oozes charm
smaller, more intimate scale. While not as grand as the castle, this venue is no less charming
They only cater for a small number of weddings
and intimacy, is warm and inviting, and is very
and, in fact, is a little more personal, where you
each year and Fabio explained to me that they
firmly rooted in the land and nature. Of the
really feel like one of the family.
prefer to cater for unique, small, intimate
three properties we visited, this is definitely one
gatherings of family and friends who are
where I’d like to have spent more time to relax
We were greeted by the owners, Fabio and
looking for a relaxed, informal and enchanting
and unwind in.
Suzanne, who run this property with love and
celebration in a timeless, fairy-tale setting for a
See more at : www.follonico.com
enthusiasm and no little hard work. They live in a private part of the farmhouse with their young family and are on hand day and night for their guests. They have lovingly created a space where they want their guests to ‘slow down, to take it easy, and to do less, but discover more whilst deeply enjoying every single minute’.
Fabio explained to me that they prefer to cater for unique, small, intimate weddings
We were shown to our beautifully decorated
rustic–chic, Tuscan wedding. This is mainly so
suite that consisted of a sitting room, bedroom
they can offer a unique home-made wedding
and bathroom – all decorated in a rustic Tuscan
feast on the lawns surrounding the property
While sitting around the breakfast table in
style – but also with some quirky touches
but also so that, in the event of foul weather,
Follinco, we met a couple who told us about
that wouldn’t be out of place in a trendy city
which happens sometimes, all your guests
the Le Marche region of Italy, which they
boutique hotel. This tricky mix of styles is
can be accommodated comfortably inside
described as, ‘Like Tuscany, but without the
difficult to pull off but Suzanne’s innate sense
the farmhouse. The country kitchen is again
tourists’. We decided to check this out as the
of style has created six unique, relaxed and fun
at the centre of this property, with a large
only downside to Tuscany is that you’re as likely
spaces to chill and enjoy. This style is replicated
kitchen table around which guests breakfast
to hear an American or Irish accent as you are
throughout the rest of the farmhouse and
on sumptuous fresh local produce, much of
an Italian one. English is spoken everywhere
outbuildings, with something charming and
which Fabio and Suzanne grow on their farm,
and while the food, the scenery, the towns and
unexpected around every corner.
including their own honey and their own wine.
architecture are quintessentially Italian, you do get a feeling that it’s very much a product, even if it is an exquisitely packaged and beautifully presented one. So we decided to head over to Le Marche to check out this off-the-grid, truly authentic Italian region.
Weddings Abroad I IWD Feature I 165
L
e Marche is an area as captivating as
The owners, Madelline and Tim, spent three
Another reason to visit this little gem is the
any you will find in Italy, and is one of
years painstakingly restoring this historic
town itself. A sleepy little town just 25 minutes
the very few places that has escaped
palazzo into a beautifully appointed boutique
from the coast, it is quintessentially Italian, with
mass tourism, despite its natural beauty.
hotel that retains all the authenticity and
narrow meandering cobbled lanes climbing to
The Italians describe it as, ‘all of Italy in one
character of the original building. Each of the
the dapple-shaded park at the top of the town,
region’, with its medieval hilltop towns full of
eight stunning bedrooms has been individually
where you can view the Sibillini mountains to
art and culture, amazing coastline with hidden
styled by Madelline, who has taken inspiration
the west and the Adriatic coast to the east. Pop
beaches, patchwork-quilt countryside, stunning
from the 5-star hotels she stayed in during her
into one of the two local bars or the café in the
mountain ranges within three national parks,
high-flying banking career in London and the
town and get a glimpse of real life that you
and a growing number of vineyards.
Far East. Everything from the contemporary
don’t find in Tuscany. If, like us, your Italian is
décor to the luxurious bed linen has been
minimal, you‘ll find the locals here are all fluent
We wanted to experience the smaller off-track
hand-picked to offer guests the ultimate
in the international language of hand signals,
villages, where very little English is spoken and
luxurious stay.
pointing and smiling.
conscious of our limited Italian. Realising we
The hotel interior is magnificent with its art
might need a little help, we were delighted to
deco cocktail bar, the 15th-century brick-
find a stunning boutique hotel in the town of
vaulted restaurant, and the plush Salone,
Montelparo that is owned and run by an English
where you can relax for afternoon tea or an
couple, who have realised their dream of
after-dinner drink. It’s outside, however, where
owning their own little slice of heaven in Italy.
the hotel really wows guests. The panoramic
Madelline and Tim, spent three years painstakingly restoring this historic palazzo into a beautifully appointed boutique hotel
tourists are few and far between, but we were
terrace offers some of the best views in town, where you can see the rolling hills and cypress
The Italians describe Le Marche as, ‘all of Italy in one region
trees leading across to the Adriatic Sea in the
Madelline and Tim have had the honour of
distance. Breakfast is served on this terrace,
hosting many weddings since they opened
where you can watch the morning sun cast its
and they can organise as much or as little of
golden light over the breath-taking landscape
your wedding as you would like them to. The
below. You can also dine here in the evening
ceremony can be performed in the town square
Boutique Hotel Leone is located in the
under the stars and listen to the sounds of the
in front of the church steps by the local mayor.
picturesque hillside town of Montelparo, under
locals working and living in the valley below.
You and your guests can then wind your way
half an hour’s drive from the Adriatic coast, in
The quiet and secluded private pool also takes
though the town, via one of the little bars,
the foothills of the Sibillini Mountains, which
in this beautiful view and is a perfect suntrap,
back to the hotel where your drinks’ reception
offers luxury accommodation and fine dining
where you can relax with a good book and a
would be held on the terrace or in the art deco
that includes all the Italian classics but with an
nice cool drink.
cocktail bar. The wedding banquet can then be
international flavour.
served in the 15th-century cellar restaurant or on the terrace as the sun sets, where you can then dance the night away under the stars. Sounds idyllic, doesn’t it? www.hotelleonemarche.com
166 I IWD Travel I Weddings Abroad
THE MOMENT WHEN HAPPY EVER AFTER BEGINS
FLY DIR EC T F RO M DUBL IN
Start the most exciting chapter of your life with TUI. Choose to say ‘I do’ on a tropical beach in Mexico or looking out to the Mediterranean in Cyprus, Greece or Spain. To book, call 1850 929 141, visit tuiholidays.ie or visit your local TUI Store.
TUI is a trading name of TUI Ireland Limited, a member of TUI Group, and is fully licensed and bonded by CAR T.O.021.
Love is in The Air In the Seychelles
Torsten Dickmann
I
n our frantic, modern world relaxation techniques invite us to close our eyes
unparalleled opportunities for sailing on bare-
and dream of a place where tired spirits can be refreshed. But why dream when
boat or skippered yacht, world class deep-sea
Seychelles is only hours away? Creation has blessed these friendly islands with
and fly-fishing, as well as a broad diversity of
perpetual summer, the space to breathe the purest air and room to unwind on the powder-
dive experiences for the novice and experienced
soft sand of endless beaches. Against the romantic backdrop of our diverse islands,
diver alike. From Mahé, principal island of the
scattered like pearls upon the warm, azure waters of the Indian Ocean, your yearning for
Seychelles, the nation’s islands extend 100km
the ultimate in beauty and tranquility will become reality. Seychelles, made up of 115 pristine, tropical
endemic species of flora and fauna that are
islands, is a magnificent archipelago, containing
amongst the rarest on earth. Many endemic
the only mid-ocean granitic islands on the
and indigenous species can be discovered on
planet, that was certainly known to the early
the network of guided walks. The islands are
Arab sea-farers before being colonised by the
also home to two UNESCO World Heritage
French in 1770 and then by the British in 1814
sites: The Vallée de Mai, upon whose ancient
before becoming an independent republic
palms grows the wondrous Coco-de-Mer, and
north and 1000km in a glittering arc towards
within the Commonwealth in 1976.
fabled Aldabra, the largest raised atoll in the
the east coast of Africa. Between 15 minutes
world.
and 1 hour’s flight time from Mahé, several of
In
an
ecologically
compromised
168 I IWD Travel I The Seychelles
our select island getaways offer accommodation
world,
Seychelles offers sanctuaries for numerous,
Seychelles, made up of 115 pristine, tropical islands, is a magnificent archipelago,
Throughout the islands are to be found
in well-appointed lodges and resorts ranging
Torsten Dickmann
Chris Close
Torsten Dickmann
Raymond Sahuquet
Chris Close
from sumptuous five-star luxury to beach-side
will be as blissfully romantic and unique as you,
cottages with a natural and homely elegance.
in your wildest dreams, can conjure, allowing
Quietly stroll the Vallée de Mai where the
the memories of those special days to become
legendary Coco-de-mer nut grows high on
forever emblazoned in your hearts.
ancient palms. Dine tête à tête with your feet
The islands enjoy a rich variety of hotels and guesthouses, each with its own brand of
in the sand on uncrowded beaches or try your
welcome to seduce the visitor with the charms
hand at dancing the moutia, ancient dance of
and rhythms of an island lifestyle that are
slaves, whose sensuous rhythms beckon from
refreshingly authentic and with sights, sounds
the flicker of a beach fire beneath a lover’s
and flavours that are typically Creole.
moon.
The islands enjoy a rich variety of hotels and guest houses, each with its own brand of welcome
Whether in Seychelles for a wedding or honeymoon, make a rendezvous with destiny and set your own stage for the most romantic days of your life beneath swaying palms, alongside crystal waters fringed by silver-soft
Lay back and watch the days and nights slip ever so slowly by from within the luxurious cocoon of a dream island getaway
sands. Sensual Seychelles has long been dubbed ‘the islands of love’. Home to the unique Vallée de
Sip
Mai, purported by many to be the site of the
backdrop of crimson sunsets. Visit the island of
exotic
tropical
cocktails
against
the So, come and savour the ultimate in tropical
original Garden of Eden, it is little wonder that
La Digue where time stands still and bicycles
romance! Be swept off your feet by the
lovers are inspired to take their vows and wed
and the ox-cart hold sway on the pathways to
breathtaking beauty of the world’s most
in this gentle and romantic atmosphere.
the dream beaches of Grand Anse and Source
stunning islands that offer you diversity, a
D’Argent. Or, simply lay back and watch the
carefree lifestyle and the services of dedicated
Marriage and/or honeymoon packages are
days and nights slip ever so slowly by from
professionals whose attention to detail will
offered by several leading travel agencies to
within the luxurious cocoon of a dream island
leave you with the freedom to enjoy the
ensure that your wedding day or honeymoon
getaway.
moments of a lifetime.
The Seychelles I IWD Travel I 169
The Seychelles The perfect place for your romantic escape.
Seychelles Tourist Office - UK & Ireland Ground Floor, 130-132 Buckingham Palace Road SW1W 9SA Tel: +44 (0) 207 730 0700 · seychelles@uksto.co.uk · www.seychelles.travel Photo: © Torsten Dickmann
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WEDDINGTRAVEL HONEYMOONS & WEDDINGS ABROAD Compiled by Alex Joyce
Marrakech
Reefs and Ruins in Belize
Marrakech is one of the most popular wedding–location destinations in the world and Royal Mansour the most extraordinary in that city. Owned by the King, the exquisite Royal Mansour was designed to regal standards as a showcase of the country. The ‘medina within the medina’ is made up of 53 individual multi-floor riads, imbued with tradition and Belize is small but incredibly diverse, with dense jungle to the west and Caribbean seas to the east. With more than 400 islands, the longest unbroken barrier reef in the western hemisphere, and 185 miles of coastline, it is a diver’s paradise. In this itinerary you’ll explore the Great Blue Hole, where a dive team will be waiting for you; you’ll spearfish for your lunch in the Turneffe Atoll, eating whatever you catch; dive incredible coral reefs, coming face-to-face with sharks; and you’ll enjoy lunches on hidden beaches. You’ll also fly to a luxury jungle lodge, visiting incredible Mayan ruins, caves and waterfalls en route.
artistic history whilst remaining contemporary in its facilities and service. Exquisite craftsmanship runs throughout the property, in combination with the location’s uniquely discreet and private aura. This is exemplified by a labyrinthine series of underground tunnels to each of the 53 riads that can be accessed only by the 500 staff, ensuring prompt and dedicated service. www.royalmansour.com
pelorusx.com/private-adventures/diving/belize-experience
Luxury... In the Palm of Your Hand If you’re thinking of heading to the exotic east on your honeymoon, make sure you pay Dubai a visit. Renowned as a luxury shopping destination with lively nightlife, it is also a place where you can unwind after the hectic wedding and just relax in ultimate luxury. One such place to relax is the Anantara The Palm Dubai Resort which is located on the worldfamous Palm Jumeirah, just off the coast of Dubai. It boasts 400 metres of private shoreline and panoramic views of the Arabian Gulf. Indulge in an exclusive beach escape, while still enjoying the excitements of the city. Float on water, with lagoon-access rooms and the UAE’s only over-water villas. Unwind with hammam rituals at our Palm Jumeirah hotel’s spa and enjoy the Thai-style luxury for which Anantara is known. Whether you want to spend your entire honeymoon here or use it as a stopping-off point on your honeymoon in Asia or Africa, for more information check out www.anantara.com/en/palm-dubai
Honeymoons I IWD Travel I 171
Let’s Talk Honeymoons Mark your marriage with a one-of-a-kind honeymoon with Hayes & Jarvis
If there’s ever a time to take a holiday where every little detail is of the absolute finest standard, it’s your honeymoon. Whether you want to celebrate getting married by relaxing on a beautiful beach in Thailand or discovering the wildlife at Kruger National Park, South Africa, Hayes & Jarvis honeymoon destinations are designed to leave you with memories that last a lifetime.
The Maldives The Maldives is the perfect luxury honeymoon destination. With over 1,000 idyllic islands, it boasts stunning lagoons, beautiful white-sand beaches, and dazzling underwater coral gardens. All-inclusive is definitely the way to go as it is a oneisland one-hotel concept. A dolphin sunset cruise or a private sunset dinner on the beach can be the highlight of your honeymoon. You can also combine your stay with another iconic destination. Spend a night or two in Dubai before or after your Maldives holiday; or, soak up a bit of the culture and history of Sri Lanka before relaxing on the white Maldivian sands with a cocktail in hand.
Mauritius Mauritius has all you could want in a honeymoon, from pristine beaches to exciting culture. It brings together a vibrant mix of Indian, French, Creole, and Chinese cultural influences. Famed for its pure shores, diverse culture, sugar-cane fields, as well as some of the finest resorts in the world, it’s easy to see why Mauritius is a popular honeymoon destination. The flight time to Mauritius is approximately 11 and a half hours, so why not twin your holiday with a stay in South Africa, just four hours away from the island? From winelands to safaris, it offers the perfect contrast to your Mauritian oasis. Dubai is another great stopover destination where you can indulge in the vibrant city life before your relaxing escape to Mauritius.
SouthAfrica Start off your wedded bliss with a trip to stunning South Africa, where adventure greets you at every turn. In Cape Town, hike up Table Mountain for a panoramic view of the city. Venture on a safari to see the Big Five at Kruger National Park, watch penguins waddle onto the beach in Cape Town, voted best city in the world, and tour the vineyards in Cape Winelands; there’s something for everyone. South Africa gives you the chance to combine city, safari, sea and mountains all in one trip, making it a honeymoon to remember.
172 I IWD Travel I Honeymoons
Vietnam A trip to Vietnam allows you to experience Asia at its best. Although many cultures have left their mark on the face of this beautiful country, it has a personality all to itself. For the full Vietnam experience, combine the laid-back life of sleepy Luang Prabang and Hoi An with the bustling metropolis of Hanoi and Saigon. Start your trip with a visit to Halong Bay that has been listed as a World Heritage site, thanks to its outstanding natural beauty, including the thousands of limestone islets that can be seen rising out of its clear waters. Take a cruise through the bay and prepare to be awed by its beauty. Then trade the tranquillity here for the hustle of Ho Chi Minh, formerly Saigon, the most populous metropolitan area in Vietnam and home to the fascinating Cu Chi tunnels, an immense network of connecting underground tunnels built during the war. The city buzzes with energy and you won’t be able to stop yourself from getting swept up in the excitement. Choose top notch eateries or dine from street stalls as you meander through the crowds.
Dominican Republic The Dominican Republic is a Caribbean honeymoon destination that has always been a popular choice, thanks to its stunning beaches and impeccable weather. No matter when you visit, you are likely to be greeted with clear skies and warm sea air. The Dominican Republic offers you the idyllic beach vacation with turquoise water, inviting locals, and a relaxing atmosphere. A holiday to the Dominican Republic is still uncrowded, even on the most popular beaches, resorts are low-rise in that they are no higher than the palm trees, and streets are lined with small local cafes, bars and restaurants rather than international chains. Visitors to this stunning Caribbean island can really experience something unique, a rare opportunity that may not last forever. Internationally known luxury resort destinations – Cap Cana, La Romana and Punta Cana – have picture-perfect beaches and every kind of activity and entertainment imaginable. Secrets Resorts & Spas combine world-class amenities with Unlimited-Luxury and adults-only fun for a honeymoon to remember.
Thailand Thailand can give you a romantic ambiance like no other destination. The beaches are some of the world’s best, and the amazing temples are not to be missed. Renowned for delicious food, warm hospitality and beautiful vistas, Thailand is also a snorkelling and diving paradise with crystal-clear seas and kaleidoscopic marine life waiting to be discovered beneath the surface. If you don’t want to settle for one location, experience more with some island hopping, with each island offering a brand new experience and unique sights: from Koh Samui for stunning temples and rainforest to Phuket for lazy days on palm-fringed beaches.
As market leaders we’ve been creating bespoke journeys for over 65 years. With so many destinations to choose from worldwide, the journey we care most about is the one that’s on your wish-list. To talk to one of our specialists call 01-433 1020 or drop into the Hayes & Jarvis store on 18-19 Duke Street, Dublin 2. Visit hayesandjarvis.ie to discover more amazing destinations.
Honeymoons I IWD Travel I 173
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Classic Dylan
WEDDINGTRAVEL HONEYMOONS & WEDDINGS ABROAD Compiled by Alex Joyce
Halong Bay Cruise
The largest and most luxurious cruising vessel to ever ply Halong Bay’s waters
has impressed its inaugural passengers with its elegant cabins, evening piano bar, expansive sun decks, spa and fine dining. The first of two President Cruises’ ships took to the water on 15 November and Perfectly located in the heart of Amsterdam, The Dylan is housed in an exceptional 17th-
is the largest overnight ship to debut on the UNESCO World-Heritage-listed site.
century landmark on the Keizersgracht, one of Amsterdam’s most famous canals. The
In the elegant piano bar evoking the refined atmosphere of a 1920s New
hotel’s brilliant personal service, stylish rooms overlooking the canal, charming courtyard
York jazz café, a jazz duo stages performances nightly as guests are treated
garden and Michelin-starred Vinkeles Restaurant embody a design-lover’s paradise and an
to free-flowing after-dinner drinks. Acclaimed Vietnamese wellness group Kaia
oasis of calm after an energetic day of exploring the very best that the city has to display.
Spa offers indulgent treatments at the six-treatment-room spa. The vessel’s
Open all day, The Dylan’s Bar Brasserie OCCO showcases paramount quality, craftsmanship
fine-dining restaurant has unveiled an a la carte menu of delectable Japanese,
and service. A fusion of classic and contemporary design, the bar has a sultry-come-
Korean, and European-inspired dishes.
cosmopolitan aura. Over the sweeping marble bar hangs a striking architectural chandelier
A limousine transfer service connects Hanoi with Halong Bay on a new highway
from the black-beamed ceiling, and the room is equipped with elegant velvet sofas, from
that has slashed the drive time between the destinations in half, to two hours.
which to enjoy the bar’s seasonal cocktail menu that consists of Dutch-inspired signatures
Arriving passengers immediately embark the ship rather than waiting in a lounge.
as well as worldly classics – with a twist. www.dylanamsterdam.com
Visit www.presidentcruiseshalong.com
An Emerging Honeymoon Destination Oman is one of the lesser-known destinations on the Arabian Peninsula, but if you’re after something different for your honeymoon, while still experiencing a cultural feast in luxurious surroundings, Salalah, on the southern coast of Oman, could be for you. Famed for the riches of its frankincense groves, coconut-fringed beaches and a profusion of tropical greenery, Salalah offers intrepid travellers an emerging destination of breath-taking natural beauty.
by Anantara Al Baleed Resort Salalah luxury and brings a new level of allowing on, refinement to the regi over the discerning guests to disc Oman. unique charms of southern the airport, from km Located just 15 reach of easy the resort sits within abundance Salalah city centre and an of cultural treasures.
ntains and Guarded by indigo mou e waters of trimmed by the opal-blu
rt has been the Arabian Sea, the reso grandeur of le simp the designed with fortresses tal the region’s iconic coas façades Whitewashed mind. in the perfect and clean lines provide emark blue trad the to accompaniment ic lanterns Arab skies, with shimmering
ere as night transforming the atmosph ll enjoy an falls. During your stay, you’
ces, whether array of authentic experien mountains, it’s trekking through the
saluting the catching fish for dinner, or simply ion sess yoga sunset during a
nt villa into
slipping out of their beachfro the languid ocean.
Honeymoons I IWD Travel I 175
City Lovers Honeymoons Three Fabulous European Cities for lovers of Architecture By Marcus Stewart
I
f your thinking of a city destination for your honeymoon or wedding abroad, you’re probably a fan of wonderful architecture, unless you just like to party. Of course, you could be a party animal who loves architecture but either way we’ve got three city honeymoon destinations where you can marvel at the architecture, take in the city and we’ve picked three architecturally beautiful hotels for your city pad. Remember, when sightseeing in a city to look up; most of the wonderful architecture is way above the eye-line
Copenhagen
Stay at The Nimb Hotel The Nimb Hotel is the perfect place to stay. In
the
custom-designed
internationally
iconic
contrast to the ultra-modern city, this ‘Scandi-
Nimb style, characteristic of ‘time and space
Copenhagen is a city of unconventional
chic meets Arabian nights’ hotel lies at the
luxury’. Featuring Italian marble stucco flooring,
and innovative architecture. The modern
heart of the famously charming Tivoli Gardens.
crystal chandeliers, Danish antiquities and
city planners have a strong focus on
A Moorish-styled palace with a striking Venetian
spinning wheels hung on walls, Nimb Hotel is a
sustainability using space and light in
marble façade, the interiors are impressed with
design–lover’s paradise.
combination with Danish attention to detail, which has placed Copenhagen as a world-leading city in contemporary architecture – an eye-opening visit. Many of these striking buildings sit on the waterfront,
which
adds
to
their
appeal:
Copenhagen Opera House – considered one of the most modern opera buildings in the world; the Royal Library – known as the black diamond for its lopsided cubic shape and deep black façade; and Copenhagen International School – which integrates one of the city’s largest solar panels into a building.
176 I IWD Travel I Honeymoons
Dubrovnik
An architectural style unlike any of its other neighbouring cities along the Dalmatian coast, the UNESCO world heritage site of old-town Dubrovnik is easy to navigate. Pile City Gate marks the entrance to Dubrovnik old town, connected to a wooden drawbridge that provided defence over a now dry moat, and features as the entrance to the King’s Landing in Game of Thrones. Defending the Pile Gate, as well as the western sea approach, is the magnificent Bokar Fortress, designed and nearly completed in the 1460s. Almost perfectly cylindrical in shape, it is said to be the oldest casemented fort in Europe, and offers unparalleled views of the
Stay at Villa Orsula
Adriatic on a starry night. Other admirable crafts include:
Where to stay: Dubrovnik’s exquisite boutique
the Onofrio Fountain, which is lavishly lined by 16 water
retreat, Villa Orsula, is located just a five-minute
taps; and the baroque-style church of St. Blaise, the
walk away from the white-stoned world heritage site
patron saint of Dubrovnik, both with their own historical
of Dubrovnik old town. The architecturally adorned
and modern purposes to learn of.
1930s Mediterranean-inspired villa is made of eleven rooms and two suites of stylish décor, offering discreet luxury and personal service.
Lisbon
Architecture in Lisbon builds upon its common coin as ‘the sunny capital of Europe’. Portugal’s capital city is built on seven hills with the river
Stay at AlmaLusa Baixa Boutique hideaway AlmaLusa Baixa/Chiado, a 28-room
Within the most inviting setting comes the most enchanting of dining spots – Villa Orsula’s Victoria Restaurant is beyond picturesque. Situated amongst the seafront gardens and shaded by grape vines, guests are overwhelmed by the breathtaking views of the glimmering blue Adriatic Sea, forested Lokrum Island, and the local old town.
wooden staircase, whilst weathered flagstones and vault-style concrete walls frame the reception area.
townhouse hotel that’s tucked into a charming corner
The rooms are as serene as the square they look onto
of one of Lisbon’s most emblematic squares, Praca de
– guests can ogle the creamy façade of the City Hall
Muncipio. The 18th-century building, once the site of
and snap away at the iconic (and silent) passing trams.
Lisbon’s army arsenal, is bursting at the seams with
The square itself is dominated by the palatial City Hall,
original features. Moss-green tiles line the way on the
complete with elegant neoclassical façade.
Tagus flowing through its centre, and the sun is unusually reflected off the city’s white-tiled streets, allowing themes of luminosity, shade and shadow to act as artistic starting points for designers’ most enticing building creations. The city’s many squares, ‘praças’, exhibit this beautifully, and are often host to a plentiful choice of coffee shops. A favourite is ‘Praça Do Comércio’, the largest of the city’s squares lined by bright yellow buildings. Castelo de São Jorge is an 11th-century Moorish castle that sits in a citadel on a hilltop overlooking Lisbon. Originally built to house military troops, it still retains 11 towers and is now an archaeological site with a permanent exhibition on Lisboa’s history, and a best-loved viewing point of the city.
Honeymoons I IWD Travel I 177
Abroad All
Fancy saying your vows abroad? Claudia Gocoul takes a look at the pros and cons.
D
on’t you just wish there was a bridal version of A Place in the Sun: Home or Away, where you could test out a wedding at home and abroad before making your decision? With more and more Irish couples looking to combine sun and sea with saying I do, we take a look at the pros and cons of saying your vows on vacation.
PRO: Duh - Destination
to have a small, intimate guest list when you’re hosting a
A destination wedding brings with it exotic romance that an
wedding away from home. TTYL, crazy Aunt Beth.
Irish venue can often only dream of. Don’t get us wrong, the Irish landscape is beautiful and we have an abundance
CON: The Guest List
of quirky, cute and even outright luxurious churches, castles
Whilst it’s great that you can narrow invites down to your
and hotels, but if it’s exotic you’re after, then you’re going
nearest and dearest, keep in mind that they may not all be
to have to go abroad. And why not? Who wouldn’t want to
in a position to make it to a wedding abroad – for various
spend a week (or two) soaking up the sun, topping up your
different reasons. From financial issues, to lack of holiday
tan and relaxing by the pool in the lead-up to their big day?
days and even ill health, switching to the sun may mean everyone you’d like to be there might not be able to make
PRO: The Guest List
it. Plan as far ahead as possible to allow guests to save and
Ah, the guest list, the thing that often causes the most
get organised.
arguments when planning a wedding. Whether it’s where to sit your divorced parents, how to tell your crazy Aunt Beth
For those who can’t make it, why not host a post-wedding
that she’s not invited or whether or not you’d like children
celebration when you get home. This can be as extravagant
involved, there are always going to be hiccups when it comes
or as low-key as you want – from a dinner party to a wedding
to compiling ‘the list’. Getting married abroad removes most,
video– and friends and family who missed out will love that
if not all of that stress. It’s somehow much more acceptable
you’ve thought of them.
178 I IWD Travel I Weddings Abroad
CON: Culture Shock
PRO: Cash Flow PRO: Stress Less Tying the knot at home requires a lot of planning, as does getting wed abroad. However, when you’re getting married abroad, most of the menial tasks are outsourced. Resorts often offer ready-made packages whereby everything from your flowers to your cake is organised for you – leaving your hands free for a cocktail by the pool. The weeks and months leading up to a wedding can be extremely stressful, causing a strain on both the bride and groom, so having a built-in holiday to look forward to helps to alleviate some of the madness.
Not too long ago in Ireland, the bill was left in the very capable hands of the couple’s parents. However,
post–Recession,
that
tradition
has changed dramatically, with the couple themselves covering the cost of celebrations. This may be viewed as a little selfish but whilst getting married abroad costs more for guests, it costs considerably less for the bride and groom - winning! Smaller numbers, cheaper set-price packages and less freedom to go wild on unnecessary extras such as party favours and photo booths mean that, more often than not, it’s cheaper to get married abroad.
When visiting a different country for an event as momentous as your wedding, it’s extremely important to take into consideration cultural differences. Whilst it’s not unusual to hear of Irish weddings running into the early hours of the morning, many venues abroad will have a midnight curfew. Be sure to check this well in advance with your venue to give you time to explore licence-extension options (which will cost extra). Also, if you’re conducting your ceremony in a church, speak to some locals so that you know the unwritten rules. Often your shoulders will need to be covered, meaning that a sheer Zuhair Murad gown might not be an ideal choice. You don’t want to be banned
CON: The Language Barrier It’s a simple one, not to be overlooked. When
from your own wedding for flashing too much flesh.
dealing with local vendors, it helps if you speak the lingo. Your wedding day is one day that you don’t want any confusion over or miscommunication about. A solution to this common issue (if budget permits) is to hire a local, reliable wedding planner. Letting a professional deal with the details will ensure nothing is overlooked and your day runs as
CON: Red Tape Getting
married
abroad
is
completely
smoothly as you deserve it to..
PRO: Insta Perfection
achievable: people do it every day. However,
Think of the ‘gram… Once your wedding day
that doesn’t mean it’s always easy. Legal
is over, all you’ll have left is memories, photos
requirements change in every country. France,
and a hubby, of course. A wedding abroad will
for example has residency requirements, so
ensure your pictures are Pinterest-perfect.
you’ll have to do your research well in advance
Think about it, no risk of the bridal party getting
to ensure everything is up to scratch and fully
drenched or swept away by the wind, just blue
legal. Be sure to secure extra copies of your
skies and sandy beaches. When booking a
marriage licence; you’ll need it over the years
photographer, be sure to ask for pictures of
and sometimes a quick jaunt to Cyprus to pick
previous weddings to ensure your style matches
up paperwork isn’t exactly practical. Don’t
there’s. Well in advance of the wedding, touch
let legalities put you off though – you could
base with inspo pictures and a shot list – that
always opt for a ceremony abroad with the civil
way, you can ensure everyone is on the same
ceremony at home to avoid any legal issues.
page and avoid any disappointment.
Weddings Abroad I IWD Travel I 179
Honeymoon on the Edge
SM
W
hen it comes to honeymoons, they can sometimes be an afterthought following all the wedding preparation and planning. With many people not considering whether their wedding day falls during the rainy season at their dream destination or if that must-see attraction is accessible at that time of year, this dream trip can be missed without an expert travel agent on hand to guide and look after you along the way. This is where Platinum Travel can help you tailor-make a unique honeymoon, just for you.
your lives as a married couple on a luxurious honeymoon cruise, where the journey is just as memorable as the destination. Whether you are looking for rest and relaxation in a romantic setting for your first holiday as newlyweds, or perhaps a new adventure to tick off your bucket list, we’ve got the world covered. The Caribbean is a classic choice for honeymooners looking for idyllic beaches and crystal-clear waters coupled with an infectious
The good news is that these days, most
excellent value, you can visit several places that
laid-back
places are accessible on almost any budget.
you would never think of visiting on a holiday
something a little more adventurous on their
atmosphere.
For
couples
after
Tailormade and multi-centre honeymoons are
while only having to unpack once.
honeymoon an Alaskan cruise is a great option – full of wildlife and jaw-dropping scenery. For
more popular than ever, with a rising number of couples opting for a cruise as part of their
After your big day, what could be more special
something a little closer to home, choose from a
honeymoon. While cruises not only provide
and relaxing than a honeymoon at sea? Start
selection of European cruises, which are perfect
180 I IWD Feature I Honeymoon on the Edge
for shorter breaks to a variety of destinations
One of the latest editions to the market is the
Looking for the perfect place for a pre-
including the Mediterranean, Scandinavia and
stunning Celebrity Edge . Celebrity Edge
SM
dinner tipple? Our range of bars and lounges
the Baltics.
changes everything. The way you experience
provide the perfect places to relax and enjoy
SM
a lively ambiance. On Celebrity Edge
SM
One of the best things about a honeymoon
you can experience dining like never
cruise is that it requires very little organisation
before with the introduction of Eden.
on your part, which after all the planning
The Eden Restaurant is a place where
for the big day will no doubt come as great
dining is taken to new and exciting
news. Simply pick your dream destination (or
places. It features a lively, open air
destinations!) and we’ll organise the world-
kitchen and menus that deliver sensory
class entertainment, food and accommodation
and
on board. From relaxing by the pool, having a
performance artists called Edenists. Let
romantic picnic at The Lawn Club or enjoying
your inhibitions go and set your senses
a blissful couples treatment at the spa, there
free with innovatively mouth-watering
are a number of ways you can enjoy quality
experiential
dishes
served
by
specialties inspired by nature. Dinner at the world; the way you connect with the
Eden Restaurant isn’t a meal – it’s a unique,
ocean; the way you play, dine and unwind at
personal culinary journey that transports you
sea. Revolutionary on every level, she’s the
through Eden itself. Something that must be
ship that’s setting a new standard of luxury and
experienced to be believed!
innovation at sea. From the incredible Magic Carpet – the world’s first cantilevered, floating platform that reaches heights of 13 storeys above sea level – to the private plunge pools in the new Edge Villas which are up to three SM
times the size of standard cabins; the way you cruise will never be the same again. Food is one of life’s greatest pleasures, so delicious gourmet dining comes as standard on your Celebrity cruise. Celebrated restaurants
Through teaming up with some of the
and dining venues feature a variety of
world’s
extraordinary ways to enjoy the best cuisine at
created accommodation that has never been
sea. Celebrity Edge offers a diverse range of
experienced at sea before. Onboard Celebrity
foodie delights, from innovative sushi to rustic
Edge discover the Infinite Balcony – touch a
time together on board as a newly married
Italian dishes. With a variety of complimentary
button and your entire living space becomes
couple. Here at Platinum Travel we believe that
dining venues included in the cost of your
the balcony letting you walk right out to the
everyone deserves a little bit of modern luxury.
cruise, or for a truly spectacular culinary
water’s edge. What could be more romantic
Sit back, relax and let us do the work matching
experience, try one of the many speciality
than sitting on your infinite balcony watching
you with your perfect honeymoon.
restaurants.
the sun go down with the one you love?
SM
best
designers,
Celebrity
Cruises
SM
Platinum Travel are a licensed and bonded travel agent specialising in tailormade honeymoons all over the world. We take all the stress and hassle away from the client and plan every moment of their trip to make it their dream holiday. From luxury cruises to USA fly-drives, stunning Indian Ocean beaches to Safari adventures, we are here to look after you. Contact one of our team at Platinum Travel – ‘your continental concierge’ on honeymoons@platinumtravel.ie or call 01 8535000.
Platinum Travel, “Your Continental Concierge” We specialise in tailor-made and bespoke holidays worldwide. Call now on 01 853 5000 or email info@platinumtravel.ie www.platinumtravel.ie
www.flydriveusa.ie
Platinum Travel are licenced by the Commission for Aviation Regulation TA 0634
Honeymoon on the Edge I IWD Feature I 181
At Platinum Travel we design your trip, tailored to you, to match your interests, your tastes and your budget, and create your perfect holiday always with quality and you in mind Book any Celebrity Cruise with Platinum Travel before February 28th 2019 to receive $50 on board credit. Call now 01-8535000 PARTNER LOGO HERE or email honeymoons@platinumtravel.ie
THE WORLD IS OPEN. THE SALE IS ON. STATEROOM SAVE UPTO €840 PER PLUS FREE DRINKS PLUS 50% OFF & FREE SOFT DRINKS PACKAGE FOR ADDITIONAL GUESTS What if you could explore lush South American jungles, Caribbean coral reefs, Chinese temples, or Alaskan gold-rush towns in ways that depart far from the expected? With our latest offer, there are no ‘ifs’ about it — you can! Book an eligible Ocean View stateroom or above from 15 November 2018 – 4 March 2019 on select sailings departing
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TO OPEN UP YOUR WORLD, BOOK TODAY. Termsand andconditions conditionsapply: apply:This Thispromotion promotionapplies appliestotonew newbookings bookingsofofan aneligible eligibleOcean OceanView Viewstateroom stateroomand andabove aboveon onselected selectedsailings sailingsdeparting departingbetween between99December December2018 2018and and11 11 May May 2020 2020 (“Eligible (“EligibleBookings”) Bookings”)and andbooked bookedbetween between **Terms the15 15November November 2018 2018 and and 4 March 2019 (“Promotion Period”). Period”). For Open to bookings made via UK travel agents or the Celebrity Cruises UK office via celebritycruises.co.uk only.applicable For general booking conditions including advice on ATOL/ the general booking conditions including advice on ATOL/ ABTA protection, full or promotion terms and conditions, ships and sail dates, full promotion combinability ABTA protection, full promotion and conditions,please applicable sail dates, full 2019-2020 promotion brochure, combinability cancellation chargesyour & other information, refer Celebrity Cruises 2019-2020 brochure, visit restrictions, cancellation chargesterms & other information, refer ships to theand Celebrity Cruises visit restrictions, celebritycruises.co.uk or contact travel agent. RCLplease Cruises Ltdtot/athe Celebrity Cruises (company number 07366612) celebritycruises.co.uk or contact your travel agent. RCL Brooklands, Cruises Ltd t/a Celebrity Cruises (company number 07366612) with registered office address at Building 3, The Heights, Brooklands, Weybridge, Surrey KT13 0NY. with registered office address at Building 3, The Heights,
YOUR SPECIAL OCCASION IS OUR MAIN EVENT.
Your wedding day is perhaps the most significant day of your life. You want everything to be perfect and when you book your reception at Hilton Malta, we will make sure your day is truly unforgettable. You can also hold your civil ceremony at our beautiful venue. Everything, in other words to make your big day even more special.
For additional information visit Malta.Hilton.com
HILTON MALTA
Portomaso | St. Julian's, Malta | STJ4012 | +356 21 383 383 | reservations.malta@hilton.com
Venues Leading Wedding
Venues
Leading Wedding
Choosing the right reception venue should be an easy task as there are so many venues available, and there is one to suit every taste and budget. You can hold your reception in a grand castle, a family run boutique hotel, a plush restaurant, a private club, a country pub or even in your back garden, whichever takes your fancy. We take a look at some of the leading Irish venues who specialise in weddings. All of these venues will be only too willing to give you an exclusive tour of their venue and you’ll be warmly received and pleasantly surprised. As these are Ireland’s favourite wedding venues you should pop in sooner rather than later to make sure they are free on your preferred date.
Annebrook House Hotel Situated in the heart of Mullingar, the Award Winning Four-Star Annebrook House Hotel presents a spectacular fusion of 17th century heritage with ultimate modern styling…let us be your “something old, something new.” Whether it’s a grand affair or an intimate reception, the style of your wedding is entirely up to you, catering for 30-280 guests. We pride ourselves in offering a very personalised service from the initial booking stage all the way through to your dream day. Sumptuous food combined with top-class service are the main ingredients of any good wedding and the Annebrook House Hotel delivers both these elements seamlessly. Our friendly and approachable service will ensure your wedding day is everything you want it to be and more. Ciara and the Wedding Team at the Annebrook constantly strive to keep up to date with current trends to ensure every couples day is as memorable and as individual as you are. Come along to our next Winter Wedding Showcase on Sunday 6th January 2019, 5-8pm to find our how Annebrook House Hotel could be your dream venue. For enquires contact Ciara on events@annebrook.ie | www.annebrook.ie
Ballymascanlon House Hotel A truly stunning Wedding Venue located in 130 acres of majestic parklands and surrounded by mature grounds and stunning vistas, the Ballymac (as it is fondly known by one and all) has been a favourite wedding choice for 60 years. The fact that the children and even grandchildren of couples who got married here also choose Ballymascanlon House Hotel for their own weddings speaks volumes. Our dedicated wedding team is available to assist you with all your wedding arrangements. We work with each couple to design a wedding package to suit their taste and budget. The Garden room catering up to 300 guests boasts exquisite chandeliers, which frame the high ceilings and add a sense of timeless elegance with uplighters that bring a delignate atmosphere to the room. We also accommodate for civil ceremonies. At Ballymascanlon House Hotel we offer a total of 97 bedrooms. In the Victorian house, there are 6 of the original luxuriously designed rooms dating back to the 19th century. One of which includes the spectacular Duchess Suite with its own living space that overlooks the prize-winning Gardens. Facilities include a Leisure Club and Golf Course and fun outdoor activities for adults and children. The Ballymascanlon House Hotel, Golf and Leisure Club, County Louth. Tel: 042 9358200 Web: www.ballymascanlon.com
Ballyseede Castle Every wedding deserves a Castle. Experience a unique day with a castle wedding in Kerry’s only castle hotel. As a family owned and operated hotel you will experience professional and friendly service. At Ballyseede Castle we make your dreams come true. We have a wonderful choice of banqueting suites as well as beautiful civil ceremony rooms. Catering for only one wedding per day Ballyseede Castle allows you to celebrate in style and grandeur withy your family and friends. From drinks in our formal gardens to dancing the night away within the castle walls to a post wedding barbecue on the terrace, Ballyseede Castle is a gem in the crown of the wedding world. Choose from a variety of options to create your unique and distinct menu offering restaurant quality taste and service. Ballyseede Castle will provide you with a fantastic day and memories to last a lifetime. Call in and visit us, we will be happy to show you around. Visit our website www.ballyseedecastle.com or call us on 066 7125799 to speak to one of our wedding planners.
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Packages from
€62 per perso
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WEDDING SHOWCASE SUNDAY 6TH JAN 2019 1pm - 4pm WEDDING FAYRE SUNDAY 27TH JAN 2019 1pm - 5pm Set in 130 acres of majestic parkland in the Cooley Peninsula and surrounded by mature gardens, the Ballymascanlon is a family run Country House Hotel with a long tradition of hosting Weddings. Located only one hour from both Belfast and Dublin.
To arrange a viewing, please contact one of our dedicated Wedding Co-ordinators on +353 42 9358200. E: weddings@ballymascanlon.com CARLINGFORD ROAD (R173), DUNDALK, COUNTY LOUTH. A91 PF57 WWW.BALLYMASCANLON.COM
Venues
Leading Wedding
Bellingham Castle Bellingham Castle is an elegant and spacious 17th Century Irish castle and an exclusive wedding venue in Ireland’s North East only 45 minutes from Dublin and 1 hour from Belfast. Located in the heart of the medieval village of Castlebellingham in Co Louth and approached via a private, tree-flanked driveway , Bellingham Castle is the centrepiece of an historic 17 acre estate. Set on the banks of the River Glyde, our estate includes a weir and man-made river island with footbridges, mature trees and formal lawns and gardens. Our spacious drawing rooms and bars and the elegant Bute Suite are ideal for private weddings and civil ceremonies while our nineteen bedrooms are rich in history, style and comfort. Bellingham Castle is available exclusively to you and your guests We are now open for viewings by appointment. Please contact us to arrange a time that suits you. Bellingham Castle, Castlebellingham, Co Louth, Ireland t: +353 (0) 42 937 2176 | e: info@bellinghamcastle.ie | t: @Bellingh4m | w: www.bellinghamcastle.ie
Bellinter House Situated only 30 minutes from Dublin, Bellinter House is renowned as one of the most unique wedding venues in Ireland. This stunning 18th century georgian manor is set on banks of the River Boyne. Located in County Meath, with sweeping lawns, ancient trees and secluded spots for you to explore, Bellinter House displays a distinctive romantic ambiance which cannot be replicated anywhere else. Awarded recently as the ‘Best Exclusive Wedding Venue in Ireland’, this property celebrates a mixture of unique Georgian features and contemporary arts which will create a lasting impression on all who experience it. Why not see for yourself by arranging a viewing, with the team at Bellinter House by calling 046 9030900 or emailing events@bellinterhouse.com. www.bellinterhouse.com
BrookLodge & Macreddin Village The Perfect Venue, Whatever the Season… Hidden in a secluded Wicklow Valley, less than an hour’s drive from South Dublin, lies BrookLodge & Macreddin Village, a luxurious 4 Star Wedding Venue. Situated in the heart of Macreddin Village, BrookHall is a dedicated wedding venue that is home to; The River Room, which can seat up to 200 diners, a Mezzanine Bar, a dedicated reception area, en-suite bedrooms with French windows and a swimming pool. The privacy of BrookHall will provide relaxed surroundings for couples and their guests to make their day uniquely special and memorable for years to come. For those of you lucky enough to be getting married on a balmy summer’s day or evening, five double doors leading onto south facing decking overlooking Ballycreen Brook, will afford the perfect setting for showcasing the glamour of your wedding day. And for winter weddings, a great stone fireplace at either end of the room will guaranteea truly warm and romantic atmosphere. Macreddin Chapel – is our very own private and unique ceremony venue which seats up to 140 guests and is conveniently situated on the grounds just across the Village green. Macreddin Chapel is approved by the HSE for Civil Marriages and can also be used for a simple but intimate blessing. BrookLodge & Macreddin Village, County Wickow, Ireland T: 0402 36444 E: weddings@brooklodge.com
Cabra Castle It’s always a special occasion at Cabra Castle Hotel - the most important day of your life deserves the professionalism & experience of the banqueting team at Cabra Castle. With only one wedding per day you are assured of the attention required to make your day a success. An elegant 18th century residence, surrounded by idyllic, picturesque parkland and Dún Na RÍ forest park, sets the scene in which to capture forever the most romantic moments of your dream day. The castle interior with it’s beautifully appointed reception rooms,, hand painted ceilings and collection of exquisite antiques offer a unique setting for your guests to explore and enjoy. And what better way to end the evening than to adjourn to what is fast becoming known as the most romantic bridal suite in the country. The opulent surrounds of the newly refurbished bridal suite boast 900 sq. foot with plush furnishings and ornate decor, private bar and Jacuzzi bath, ensuring relaxation is the perfect end to a magical day. Cabra Castle Kingscourt, Co. Cavan, Ireland. Tel: 042 - 9667030 Fax: 042 - 9667039 Email: sales@cabracastle.com Website: www.cabracastle.com
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A Dream Venue only 30 minutes from Dublin
Bellinter House, Navan, Co.Meath, Ireland T: 046-9030900 E: events@bellinterhouse.com W: www.bellinterhouse.com
Venues
Leading Wedding
Castle Leslie Estate A truly private and stunningly beautiful rural escape in the Irish countryside, Castle Leslie Estate in Monaghan is a magical setting for your special wedding celebration. Nestled on 1,000 acres of undulating Irish countryside, the Estate is dotted with ancient woodlands and glittering lakes providing a unique setting for timeless wedding memories. In the hands of its founding family since the mid 17th Century, the Estate is steeped in history and provides an incredibly romantic and unique atmosphere for your special day. Located in the village of Glaslough, Co. Monaghan, the Estate is only 80 minutes from Dublin, 60 minutes from Belfast and a million miles from anywhere... The character and charm can only be felt, not described, at Castle Leslie Estate; therefore they invite you to come and experience it for yourself and look forward to welcoming you to sample their renowned hospitality. So arrange a private viewing now. Contact 047 88100, email events@castleleslie.com or visit www.castleleslie.com
Clanard Court Hotel The Clanard Court Hotel, an award-winning four star wedding hotel, is one of Kildare’s leading wedding venues set amid landscaped gardens and provides the perfect scenic setting to make your day truly unforgettable. Our ‘one Wedding per day’ policy, dedicated Wedding Coordinator, attention to detail, superb food, stunning décor and excellent service mean that your special day will be everything you dreamed….and more. As a family run hotel, we pride ourselves on offering each couple personalised attention to ensure every aspect of their special day captures the essence of their union. By candlelight, the romance of our Fitzgerald Ballroom will have your guests truly lost for words. Overlooking our Garden Terrace, the Ballroom boasts stunning crystal chandeliers and floor to ceiling windows that allow a view and access to our beautiful private gardens. We even have our very own resident Alpacas to provide a fun backdrop for a wedding shot with a difference! The Clanard Court offers All Inclusive wedding packages which can be tailored to suit your desires. No stone will be left unturned and our Wedding Coordinator will ensure that your Wedding leaves an everlasting memory for you and your guests. Tel: 059 8640666. www.clanardcourt.ie
Coast Hotel and Resorts From the moment you step onto the red carpet, our dedicated team of professionals at Coast Hotels & Resorts will endeavour to make your day special from start to finish. We have two beautiful hotels in two stunning coastal locations in County Wexford - Rosslare Strand and Kilmore Quay. Located only 5 minutes from the beach is the stylish and contemporary Coast Rosslare Strand. With 32 chic and comfortable rooms ranging from Deluxe Doubles right up to Superior Suites with Sea Views to the large Function and Civil Ceremony rooms, we have everything to make your special day perfect. With the backdrop of the harbour and the rolling hills, Coast Kilmore Quay is a magical boutique setting for your special day. With 10 luxury bedrooms and dedicated function room, it’s the perfect location for an intimate gathering of friends and family. At Coast Hotels & Resorts, we cater for only one wedding per day to ensure that we give you the service and attention you deserve on your wedding day. Speak to us to arrange a tour of our hotel, function and civil ceremony rooms. Your journey begins here. E: events@coasthotelsandresorts.com T: 053 913 2010 Rosslare Strand T: 053 914 8641 Kilmore Quay www.coasthotelsandresorts.com
Dunboyne Castle Hotel Dunboyne Castle Hotel & Spa is one of Ireland’s leading and most popular wedding venues. Set within 21 acres of mature, formal gardens, which surround the beautifully restored manor house, this is a magical setting for a wedding. For brides and grooms, the Bridal Suite at Dunboyne Castle Hotel & Spa has been featured in Social & Personal and its recognition is well deserved. Its opulence and style makes for an ideal first night. Renowned for the quality of food and service, it is easy to see why this is such a sought after venue, yet Dunboyne Castle Hotel & Spa is competitively priced. Special mid-week and weekend wedding packages are available. A complimentary bridal package includes: Red carpet on arrival; champagne for the bride and groom; complimentary overnight accommodation in the bridal suite for the bride and groom, with a champagne breakfast; special accommodation rates for guests; landscaped gardens for photographs; complimentary hire of the ballroom; candles on the tables; personalised menu cards; cake stand; and a professional wedding team to help you every step of the way. To plan your special day and book your date, call 01 8013500 or visit www.dunboynecastlehotel.com
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EXPERIENCE
WEDDINGS AT D U N B OY N E C A S T L E
Making Moments Memorable For further information please contact: +353 1 8013500 or events@dunboynecastlehotel.com Dunboyne Castle Hotel & Spa, Dunboyne, Co. Meath, A86 PW63.
www.dunboynecastlehotel.com
Venues
Leading Wedding
Farnham Estate DAY FOR PERFECTION Situated just 3km from Cavan Town, the 16th Century Farnham Estate is a magical setting and an ideal venue for your wedding reception. Few settings are as romantic and as beautiful as Farnham Estate Spa & Golf Resort. Once experienced, never to be forgotten, and that makes it the perfect venue for one of the most memorable occasions of all. A wedding at Farnham Estate is a marriage of style, luxury and flawless service, everything a bride and groom could wish for can be found right here at Farnham Estate. Farnham Estate Golf & Spa Resort, Farnham Estate, Co Cavan, Ireland T: 049 437 7700, www.farnhamestate.ie, weddings@farnhamestate.ie
The Four Seasons Hotel Carlingford You Chose Love, You Chose Forever, now it’s time to choose your Venue. Set in the historic village of Carlingford between the mountains and the sea, the newly designed 4* Four Seasons Hotel & Spa, Carlingford provides a truly idyllic setting for your wedding. It has unveiled a superb redesign including a beautiful wedding suite, the new Luxe Spa, boutique styled bedrooms and more. In this Medieval Heritage setting you will find historic details and rustic surroundings to create a magically romantic moment for timeless photographs. This is the ultimate destination for romance, culture and elegance. Their expert wedding dream team, will help make any wedding the celebration of a lifetime, whether it is a private moment or with hundreds in attendance. The Grand Summer Ballroom has detailed Georgian ceilings, striking crystal chandeliers, floor to ceiling cut glass mirror and lush carpet and the balcony boasts breathtaking views across the bay and Cooley Mountains. Experience peace and tranquillity in the new Luxe Spa pre or post your wedding day with their new Bridal specials. Wedding Fayre on the 13th January, 2019 1-5pm with Canapes and Bubbles on arrival. You have to see it to believe it. For more information or to book a private show around please email events@fshc.ie or call on +353 (0)42 937 3530. www.4seasonshotelcarlingford.ie.
Glenview Hotel There are weddings ….. and then there are the Glenview Weddings… The multiple award winning Glenview Hotel offers all those special touches that you have dreamed of to bring to life your most magical day. Set in the stunning Glen of the Downs, the hotel and gardens surpasses all your expectations From outdoor ceremonies by a babbling brook to stunning drinks receptions set in the manicured gardens followed by a 5 course sumptuous dinner with dancing in the elegant Glenview Suite, the hotel has it all. With our renowned service and Rachel, our personal wedding coordinator, we are here make your dream come true. T: 01 274 0080 E: sayido@glenviewhotel.com W: www.glenviewhotel.com
The Hamlet Court Hotel As a family owned hotel, the Hamlet Court Hotel prides itself on offering a unique destination and perfect wedding venue for one of lifes most momentuous days, your wedding day. The key to a flawless occasion lies in attention to detail. Your wedding reception will be celebrated your way, with their distinct and elegant style. The Hamlet Court Hotel are committed to making your wedding day one of the best days of your life, offering a first class menu and impeccable service. Their Wedding co-ordinator will assist you every step of the way to your perfect day and will offer advice and recommendations on every aspect, from your wedding dress to florists, churches to bands and everything in between. John O Neill, proprietor takes pride in attending every wedding and personally welcoming the bridal party to the hotel and the grand entrance to the reception. The Hamlet Court Hotel have been honoured and privaleged to be part of so many magnificent weddings and have amazing testimonials to verify them. For wedding enquiries please contact Sharon or Sheila on 046-9541200 . email sharon@thehamlet.ie or sheila@thehamlet.ie web: www.thehamlet .ie
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Our 5 star reviews say it all, our amazing staff and service make dreams come true and ensure you have the best day of your life. Contact sheila@thehamlet.ie 046 9541200
www.thehamlet.ie @TheHamletCourt
@the_hamlet_court_hotel
Venues
Leading Wedding
The Johnstown Estate A newly refurbished 4-star-deluxe resort, The Johnstown Estate is filled with history, character and warmth. Their wedding team has welcomed hundreds of couples through the fine Georgian doors and find it’s the little details which make a wedding personal to the happy couple and their guests. The newly reimagined Grand Ballroom has a large foyer and a private entrance leading to a uniquely picturesque, walled wedding garden. This beautiful, enclosed garden is also a favourite spot to exchange vows or host drinks … for those couples lucky enough to catch a radiant Irish summer day. Show stopping food delivered with passion is also The Johnstown Estate’s calling card. And after a whirlwind day of celebration, couples can relax in the stunning and luxurious 3-room Lady Margaret Suite in the manor house. Only 35 minutes from Dublin’s city centre, amidst 120 acres of fields and forest, The Johnstown Estate has 120 guest bedrooms and 40 two-bedroom lodges. For those who might like to make it a weekend affair, there is an 18-room Elemis spa, a leisure centre and two fantastic restaurants. Tel: 046 9540000 or email weddings@ thejohnstownestate.com
Kilronan Castle Estate & Spa Kilronan Castle is a stunning venue for your luxury wedding celebration. The romantic setting and breathtaking views are matched by creative menus and impeccable service. This will truly be the luxury castle wedding day you have dreamed of... Every bride wants her wedding to be as memorable and magical as it possibly can be and at Kilronan Castle, the setting couldn’t be more perfect. The Grand Ballroom can hold numbers from 100 to 350 & with its high wooden panelled walls & rich colour schemes of burgundy & gold it is a perfect location for your Wedding Banquet. They can tailor make packages to suit all budgets. Nestled in the woods, overlooking the commanding beauty of Lough Meelagh, this serene Roscommon location is the quintessential Castle wedding venue. For more information on this magnificent Castle venue please contact a member of the dedicated Kilronan Castle sales team on 071 96 18000 or email enquiries@kilronancastle.ie
The K Club The K Club is the most stunning location in the country to host a wedding. Your special day deserves a special venue and The K Club really has it all. Located in the pretty village of Straffan, Co. Kildare, and on the banks of the River Liffey, the hotel is surrounded by 550 acres of mature woods, parkland and magnificent formal gardens – perfect for your wedding photographs. Dating back to 1832, Ireland’s first AA Five Red Star property is the original home of classic Irish hospitality and offers a host of opulent facilities to make wedding dreams come true. The original house, Straffan House, has been sympathetically restored to its former glory and now boasts 140 bedrooms and suites which are individually appointed to the highest standard. The resort can cater for large and lavish weddings or more intimate affairs, from just 14 people in the Pantheon Suite right up to 300 guests in the Legacy Suite. Facilities include a Resort Spa, two championship golf courses, fishing on the River Liffey, lots of dining options and fun outdoor activities for adults and children. The K Club is also delighted to cater for outdoor weddings and civil ceremonies. The K Club, Straffan, Co. Kildare. Tel: 01 6017200 Web
The Lord Bagenal Inn The Lord Bagenal Inn prides itself on providing a personal and exclusive wedding service specifically with you in mind. Booking your wedding with The Lord Bagenal Inn guarantees you an experienced team and dedicated Wedding consultant. Offering you the flexibility to plan and organise Your Wedding Your Way you can avail of their Wedding Package at €39pp or use the Menu Selector to create your own unique wedding package. The Marina Room with its spacious, bright, classic décor caters for 280 guests. Overlooking the beauty of the River Barrow, the hotel encapsulates the peace and tranquillity of this stunning backdrop with Wedding photographs capturing everlasting memories to treasure forever. For the more intimate of celebrations, the stylish yet contemporary Waterfront comfortably accommodates up to 70 family and friends. Civil Ceremonies on site in The Gallery, Marina Room or on the terrace outside. Whether your wedding is a traditional affair or a more relaxed informal gathering The Lord Bagenal Inn has something for you. www.lordbagenal.com Tel: 0599 774000
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WEDDING PACKAGES FROM
€39pp
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2 0 1 9
1 5 %
D I S C O U N T
Your Wedding Your Way The Lord Bagenal Inn, a family run four star award winning venue in the heart of the South East.
Lord Bagenal Inn Leighlinbridge, Co.Carlow Phone: 00 353 (0)59 9774000 www.lordbagenal.com
Venues
Leading Wedding
The Lodge at Ashford Castle Set within the beautiful Ashford Estate with spectacular views of Lough Corrib, it’s hard to imagine a more romantic setting for your special day. Situated on the outskirts of the charming village of Cong, in the heart of Mayo, The Lodge at Ashford Castle will provide the fairy-tale day of your dreams. As part of the Red Carnation Hotel Collection, The Lodge embraces the philosophy of ‘no request is too large, no detail too small’. Whether you desire an intimate celebration with close friends and family, or favour a more elaborate affair, The Lodge offers a choice of exceptional spaces to really set the scene. Enjoy al fresco drinks on the lawn overlooking Lisloughrey Pier and dine in the elegance of the Harbour Room with its sparkling chandeliers and panoramic vista. Expect the finest cuisine using ingredients from artisan suppliers throughout the Connemara, Mayo and Galway regions and at the end of a perfect day, their sixty four sumptuous rooms and suites will accommodate your guests in style. Providing the perfect backdrop for wedding photographs, the estate offers plenty of activities to keep your guests entertained –the perfect excuse to stay longer! For a wedding unique to you contact E: reception@thelodgeac.com W: www.TheLodgeac.com Tel: 094 9545400
Markree Castle Introducing the ultimate exclusive wedding destination Markree Castle Markree Castle Sligo is an exclusive private hire wedding venue, which re-opened in 2017 following a €12 million renovation that lasted two years. The impressive 17th Century Gothic castle in Co. Sligo joins Ballyseede Castle, Bellingham Castle and Cabra Castle in the Corscadden family’s exclusive hotel and venue portfolio; “Romantic Castles of Ireland”. Markree Castle Sligo is a fairy-tale castle of such beauty that it is said to have inspired the hymn “All Things Bright and Beautiful”. For the last three decades the majestic castle operated as a country castle hotel and wedding venue. It was sold in 2014 and was closed for two years to allow for a huge renovation. Original features have been saved; and where they were beyond repair, they were re-created by teams of specialist, highly skilled craftsmen from all over Europe. The wedding and events team is in place and looking forward to welcoming some very special guests to the unique and exclusive venue that is Markree Castle. For more information visit www.markreecastle.ie or call 071 9167800.
Mount Falcon Weddings at Mount Falcon Estate offer luxury and elegance ….. every season. We design and plan each wedding specifically around the wishes and budget of the happy couple. We work tirelessly to ensure everyone has wonderful day, full of warmth and love in the midst of a truly splendid party. Our weddings are as different as our wedding couples. We’ve had sunny, summer weddings with champagne & strawberries on our manicured open lawns. Equally, we love our winter weddings, with mulled wine receptions & cosy turf fire. Set on a 100 acre estate, Mount Falcon offers 32 stunningly appointed bedrooms in our 4 star deluxe Victorian Gothic style Manor House; and a large selection of luxury lodges to accommodate all wedding guests. Please contact Clodagh or Alexa to arrange a private viewing of the Estate. Mount Falcon Country House Hotel, Foxford Road, Ballina , County Mayo Tel: 00353 (0)96 74472 www.mountfalcon.com
Royal Marine Dating back to the 19th Century, The Royal Marine Hotel in Dun Laoghaire has panoramic views of Dun Laoghaire Harbour and Dublin Bay giving you the perfect backdrop to your perfect day. The hotel is considered one of the most romantic venues in Dublin with a marvellous sense of history and character found in all nooks and crannies. The hotel boasts many of the traditional features of a 19th century building including high ceilings, sophisticated detail on the cornicing and the magnificent Victorian staircase. The Carlisle Suite is the perfect venue with the flexibility to cater for numbers of 120 - 400 guests. Overlooking Dun Laoghaire Harbour, you and your guests will enjoy the scenic views for the duration of your special day. For your Pre Dinner Drinks, the Pavillions Bar is exclusive to you and your guests and is located directly beside the Carlisle Suite Whether you wish for large or intimate, formal or casual, a marquee, a soirée, a luncheon or a civil ceremony, our Victorian settings is perfect for a unique memorable day. If you have any questions, please do not hesitate to contact the team on +353 (0)1 2300030 or email events@royalmarine.ie www.royalmarine.ie
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Photography by Paul Keeling Photography
Luxury Irish Castle Wedding Venues
Ballyseede Castle
Bellingham Castle
Cabra Castle
Markree Castle
Ballyseede, Tralee, Co. Kerry, Ireland
Castlebellingham, Co. Louth, Ireland
Kingscourt, Co. Cavan, Ireland
Collooney, Co. Sligo, Ireland
Tel: +353 66 712 5799
Tel: +353 42 937 2176
Tel: +353 42 966 7030
Tel: +353 72 916 7800
Email: info@ballyseedecastle.com
Email: info@bellinghamcastle.ie
Email: sales@cabracastle.com
Email: info@markreecastle.ie
www.ballyseedecastle.com
www.bellinghamcastle.ie
www.cabracastle.com
www.markreecastle.ie
www.romanticcastlesireland.com
Venues
Leading Wedding
Seafield Hotel & Spa Resort Situated in the idyllic location of North Wexford, the award winning Seafield Hotel & Spa Resort exudes contemporary elegance in a magical setting on Ballymoney Shore. With its own private access to Wexford’s magnificent coast, this Hotel is synonymous with style and luxury. The resort also includes the multi-award-winning Oceo Spa, complementing 102 carefully designed deluxe bedrooms and 30 courtyard apartment suites. Seafield is an inspired choice of venue for your wedding. A true getaway. A statement of style and a worldclass level of comfort and sophistication. Enjoy their undivided attention, as you exchange vows and celebrate in style in one of four bespoke event spaces, including the impressive Pavilion Marquee and exclusive Clubhouse. Let the Seafield Team swoon you and your sweetheart! Arrange a first date with Sonia or Stephanie… E: events@seafieldhotel.com T: 053-9485107 W: www. seafieldhotel.com
Sheen Falls Lodge Sheen Falls Lodge is one of the most romantic wedding venues in Ireland. The location of this five star hotel on the banks of the Sheen Waterfalls with the highest mountain range in Ireland as a backdrop, ensures a truly memorable day. The team know that no two weddings are the same. Each of their bespoke weddings are designed in collaboration with each couple to create a unique event. Couples have the opportunity of exclusive use of the hotel and its 300 acre estate, with spectacular scenery for photographs. The Lodge can accommodate up to 200 guests in The Falls Restaurant with the adjacent Cocktail Bar and Sun Lounge, ideal for your drinks reception and entertainment following your wedding banquet. Our Wedding Executive will take you through every step of your wedding plans ensure that you both enjoy this very special occasion. Sheen Falls Lodge Kenmare, Co Kerry + 353 (0) 64 6641600 www.sheenfallslodge.ie
Step House Hotel The Step House Hotel is a four star family run boutique hotel located in the picturesque village of Borris, Co. Carlow at the foot of the Mount Leinster & The Blackstairs Mountains. The warm and welcoming atmosphere of the hotel is designed to indulge, relax and unwind you. From the original Gothic detailing of the entrance to the restrained opulence of the interior, this is a place to soothe and inspire. The Step House Hotel has been specifically designed to host the most romantic and personal weddings. The Ballroom has been luxuriously tailored to facilitate weddings for a maximum of 200 Guests. The Cellar Restaurant & Residents Bar can also cater for wedding for up to 60 Guests. Beautifully crafted French arched doors lead out onto the landscaped garden with Mount Leinster and the Blackstairs Mountains peering in the distance. This idyllic country setting with its relaxed yet elegant function room, exceptional cuisine and traditional hospitality will leave friends and family with memories to treasure forever. www.stephousehotel.ie Tel: 059 9773209 weddings@stephousehotel.ie
Solis Lough Eske From the Fairy-tale Castle Tower, to an imposing glass and stone façade, an easy-going blend of casual, country-style comfort and modern luxury awaits you and your guests inside. This award-winning luxury castle hotel offers a fresh perspective on castle living. Let the magic of Lough Eske Castle become entirely yours for your special day. Utilising years of five-star service and attention to detail, the Castle has carefully designed a unique collection of wedding packages designed to suit all of your tastes. Each package incorporates the sumptuous wedding menus specially designed by Lough Eske Castle’s Executive Chef using an array of the finest locally sourced foods and suppliers. For more information please contact Simon Petka E: simon.petka@solishotels.com T: +353(0)74 97 43163 W: www.solishotels.com/lougheskecastle
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Hotel & Restaurant
Step House
Experience the Exceptional Hotel & country house hotel, A four star family run boutique Restaurant designed to host the most intimate and personal weddings.
Step House
Step House Hotel Carlow Borris, Co. Carlow, Ireland
T: +353 (0) 599 773 209 E: weddings@stephousehotel.ie
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Step House
Venues
Leading Wedding
Summerhill Country House The Summerhill Country House, situated in the picturesque village of Enniskerry, is the ideal country house venue for your wedding. The Avondale Suite can accommodate from 80 to 250 guests. Fully licenced for civil ceremony you can enjoy your entire wedding in this wonderful location. Set in five acres of private grounds this 87 bedroom country house is one of the leading wedding specialists in the Dublin/Wicklow region. Concentrating on just one wedding reception per day affords them the opportunity to provide you and your party with the intimate service and the attention to detail you would deserve and expect. A fantastic selection of packages are available all year round and packages and menus can also be customised to suit your individual requirements. The experienced Wedding team are always on hand to guide and assist you through your preparations. Every wedding booked at the Summerhill Country House receives over 12 complimentary extras. Every Sunday is a Wedding Open Day so why not visit the Summerhill Country House , Enniskerry . For information call 01 – 2867928. E: weddings@summerhillhousehotel.com W: www.summerhillhousehotel.com
Tulfarris Tulfarris Hotel & Golf Resort is the perfect marriage of elegance and beauty, providing everything you need for a magical wedding day. The stunning Blessington Lakes, secluded beaches and captivating woodlands are the perfect backdrop for your special photographs. Whether it’s an intimate affair for 20 or a lavish occasion with 250 guests this 4 star resort is the ultimate wedding and civil ceremony destination. Our enchanting Manor House provides the perfect beauty spot to spend your first night as husband and wife. All of the lavish suites command stunning views across the beautiful lakes or up to the Wicklow Mountains, giving you the ultimate Lord and Lady of the Manor experience. Our main hotel comprises 60 superbly appointed deluxe rooms overlooking our 18 hole championship golf course and our selection of restaurants and bars provide unlimited options for your day-after party. Ideally located just an hour from Dublin and with all inclusive packages, this is an opportunity not to be missed to start planning your dream wedding. Tel : 045-867 600. www.tulfarrishotel.com, info@tulfarris.com
Waterford Castle Hotel & Golf Resort Imagine having the most special of days on a private island in a castle that’s exclusively yours for your wedding day. Ireland’s only island castle is set on an enchanted 310-acre private island. This magical wedding destination is surrounded by the River Suir and accessed by private car. Waterford Castle Hotel offers the very best of Irish hospitality and luxury in the most beautiful surroundings imaginable. Dining at Waterford Castle provides an opportunity to taste the best of traditional and contemporary Irish cuisine. The award winning culinary team’s create artisan food for your magical day. The wedding coordinators attention to detail, commitment and professionalism will make wedding dreams a reality. Irish Hotel Awards 2018 - Hotel of the Year - Luxury Hotel of the Year - Fine Dining Hotel of the Year - Castle Hotel of the Year Waterford Castle Hotel & Golf Resort, The Island, Waterford. t. +353 (0) 51 878 203 w. www.waterfordcastleresort.com e. weddings@waterfordcastleresort.com
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Tulfarris is a perfect choice for your dream wedding day. Located just 40 minutes from Dublin, your guests will experience exquisite surroundings and gourmet cuisine against the spectacular backdrop of the Blessington Lakes and Wicklow Mountains. Our team are absolute experts in perfecting every detail. The resort comprises the stunning 18th century manor house and is complimented by a luxury 4 star hotel. We can host weddings for both small and large numbers, the maximum capacity being 250 guests for dinner. Contact our dedicated wedding team to arrange a tour of our beautiful grounds and banquet rooms.
Tulfarris Hotel & Golf Resort 00353 (0) 45 867 600 • banq@tulfarris.com www.tulfarrisweddings.com
The Real Wedding of
Emma & Daniel Who were married in Mount Falcon Estate on 5th May 2018
200 I IWD Feature I Real Wedding
I met Daniel while in San Francisco during the North American GAA Championships. All the Toronto clubs went on a tour of Alcatraz and we locked eyes across the boat. Our first date was all planned and kept secret by Daniel, we went for dinner to a small Italian restaurant in Chinatown in Toronto and then walked around the city and as it happened Buskerfest was on at the time and it was a very pleasant experience. Daniel spent several months planning a proposal
reception at Mount Falcon Estate. The church
and worked with a jeweller in Toronto to design
was beautifully decorated and the ceremony
the perfect ring. Then in our apartment on Dec
itself was streamed live for some of our family
23rd 2016 he got down on one knee. He knew
and friends who were unable to attend from
I would want to call my family straight away,
around the world.
so he made sure it happened in the morning! Since we met and spent the majority of our relationship away from family, we really wanted our wedding in Ireland. For a lot of our families it was the first time meeting us, so it was important to have a relaxed few days. Our big day was May 05 2018. We were married in my local church in Swinford followed by our
Daniel spent several months planning a proposal and worked with a jeweller in Toronto to design the perfect ring I
had
three
bridesmaids
and
a
junior
bridesmaid. My twin sister, my younger sister, my old college friend and Dan’s beautiful niece. It was an easy decision choosing the girls. I really wanted those closest to me and who knew Daniel and myself the best, to be by my side on the build up to the day. I got my dress in Toronto, I tried a lot of
to Daniel and all were able to add their own touch to the celebrations. Hugh gave a side tearing speech with Darren on hand as MC and his brother Jamie to do all the formal legalities.
different dresses (my sisters count is 70, with two trips to Kleinfelds) before I found the one. It was a great experience and since my family and bridemaids were all back in Ireland, a couple of my friends stepped in and came along to fitting after fitting. We opted not to have any best men for the wedding as all three groomsmen mean so much
Real Wedding I IWD Feature I 201
Daniel was able to organize the menswear
were
on one visit to Eddie Murphy’s in Ballyhaunis
weather and canapés while
able
to
enjoy
the
in Mayo. They made everything so easy and
we had some pictures taken.
worked with us over WhatsApp and email and
The food was amazing and
did any last minute alternations that we needed
our guests are still passing
a few days before the big day.
comments on how good it was. The sun was shinning
The bridesmaids and I got ready at my home
all weekend!
A falcon was
house, with my parents. The amazingly
also on hand for our guests to hold
talented Sarah Keogh Makeup came all the way from Longford that morning to do our makeup,
After a beautiful dinner, Bridal Wave band set
along with Hair By Jacqueline from Ballina who
up to entertain our guests and the floor was
did a fantastic job on getting us ready. We
packed all night.
were picked up from the house by U2R1 cars in a beautiful white Jaguar and a BMW for the
Our photographer Karl Keaney was on hand
bridesmaids.
all day and well into the night to catch all the special moments during the day. We were so happy to use a professional photographer as the results were fantastic. Its so important to have a good photographer as you do not get to repeat the day. We would highly recommend Karl to anybody looking for a good photographer. The following day our guests enjoyed the sunshine and amenties of Mount Falcon Estate, Foxford and Enniscrone. That afternoon Mount Falcon had a beautiful outdoor BBQ for our guests with some music from the superb Colin Fahy. All in all it was the most amazing few
After the church ceremony we headed to Mount
days and a big Thank you to Mount Falcon for
Falcon Estate. As we were both agreed, we
their superb attention and service.
wanted to have an intimate wedding so Mount Falcon Estate was perfect for us. We had the
We have not gone on honeymoon yet. After the
run of the Estate for two days and our guests
wedding we went back to Toronto and decided
really got to relax and enjoy the celebrations.
it was time to come home to Ireland. So we
The day itself was perfect. The staff attended
spent a couple of months packing up our lives
to every detail to perfection. Mount Falcon
there and moved home to be closer to our
had set up a cocktail reception outside and an
family and friends.
afternoon tea in drawing room and our guests Photography by Karl Keaney • www.weddingphotographermayo.ie
202 I IWD Feature I Real Wedding
Creating M agical Moments SINCE 1876 Tel: 096 - 74472 email: events@mountfalcon.com web: www.mountfalcon.com
Total Hair & Beauty Wedding Countdown
X
posé hair and beauty expert Aimee Rogers has been styling the great and the glamourous for the past 15 years, including TV presenters, bloggers and trendsetters – with many travelling from far and wide to avail themselves of her expertise. Aimee and her team of hair and beauty professionals have plenty of experience with bridal hair and makeup and are regularly called upon to manage hair and beauty makeovers for full bridal parties – everyone from the bride to the motherin-law can benefit from Aimee’s expertise!
Here, Aimee gives her Bridal Beauty
the time to start a course of Dermalogica fa-
countdown tips before the big day. ‘Cre-
cials to ensure your skin is perfect for the big
ating a hair and beauty bridal calendar
day.’ If you are planning to schedule a course
is one of the most important steps any
of facials, this is the time to meet with the skin-
bride can take. With so much to organise
care expert at the salon and allow them to as-
and prepare for, it’s understandable that
sess your skin and recommend the right treat-
your hair and beauty prep can slip down
ment programme for you.
the priority list. Book your stylist at least 12–18 months before your big day but I
Two months to go
recommend three months out for the se-
Haircare
rious prep work to start. If you miss that
At this stage, it’s time to invest in a good home-
deadline, don’t worry! It’s never too late
care regime, such as Kérastase Fusio Dose
to take action!’
Homelab. ‘I work with my brides to ensure they get the products and treatments they need,
Three months to go
because everyone’s hair is in a different condi-
Haircare
tion. I often recommend the HomeLab range:
The importance of the wedding hair trial cannot
it comes in individual treatment vials for regu-
be overstated. What looks good in a photo or
lar dosage and gives the luxury of the salon in
glossy magazine might not look so good on cer-
the comfort of your own home. Over time, it
tain face shapes or with different hair types, so
can repair dull devitalised hair, and can protect,
the trial is essential to allow the bride to explore
nourish and add density.’
what suits her and see what she is comfortable
Aimee also suggests using Ké-
with. Be sure to schedule a long enough ap-
rastase Elixir Ultime to add shine
pointment and also bring any accessories with
and deep nutri-
you that you might use on the big day.
tion
to
dull
hair,
or
Ké-
Beauty
rastase
Every bride needs to establish a good home
tensioniste for
skincare regime - it’s essential in fact! Aimee
blondes, which
says, ‘Brides want their skin to be flawless and
will strengthen
to have a natural glow on their big day ,so I
and
always recommend a Dermalogica routine as
damaged
they have products within their range for every
over-processed
skin condition. If it’s within your budget, this is
hair.
Ex-
repair or
Beauty If a bride wants to invest in a little more than a good skincare regime, this is the time to consider additional treatments. Lots of brides are opting for anti-ageing treatments and peels; Dermalogica have a range of skin-brightening peels suitable for all skin types; and with little or no down time there is something for every budget.
One month to go Haircare It’s the final haircare countdown! Time to look ahead and make plans for the wedding day and the honeymoon. If you have naturally rebellious or frizzy strands, go for our in-salon 12week blow dry one month before the wedding. Our smoothing service helps hair stay healthy, strong and frizz-free while cutting down on your blow dry time at home – plus it will last, and be perfect for the honeymoon! Beauty Invest in a makeup trial. It’s well worth it and will allow you to experiment with different looks and colours. Aimee suggests doubling up and having a mini makeup lesson at the same time. ‘Our in-salon makeup artist, Aoife Crossan, will always talk her clients through every step of the makeup application and give her tips and tricks to take home in order to achieve that flawless finish.’
Photography by Jenny McCarty www.photosbyjen.ie
204 I IWD Beauty I Wedding Countdown
Three Weeks to go Haircare It’s decision time! The final evaluation of all your hair needs! If you are wearing your hair down or in a semi-up-do, you will need to get it looking as healthy as possible – especially the ends. Aimee suggests getting an intensive Kérastase in-salon deep conditioning treatment. ‘Hair is easier to work when it’s healthy and less problematic,’ she says.
ever, recommend having your trusted stylist
Working towards your big day!
(i.e. not a new person) at a salon near the wedding location in order to do a little light trimming of the ends. Beauty If you have been maintaining a good skincare
Some top tips to ensure hair and beauty perfection on your special day
regime at home, you should be seeing the results by now. As an additional boost, a Derma-
•
DO consult a hairdresser and build a
logica hydrating facial is a must at this stage
good rapport with them. Having a pro-
as well. It leaves the skin beautifully soft and
fessional on board will give your hair the
glowing and will help transform your skin for
best chance to look healthy and beauti-
the big day.
fully styled on your wedding day. Bring plenty of photos or magazine pics for
One week to go
ideas on the look you would like to cre-
Haircare
ate. And don’t forget any headpieces or
Highlights and colour should be done one week
hair accessories – your hairdresser will
before your wedding. You want your colour to
need to explore all your options with you to ensure you get the look you want.
settle, but still be fresh and radiant, so this is the perfect time to manage your colour for picture
•
DO get a great haircut before your wedding. Depending on the length and type
perfection.
of your hair, let your hairdresser recommend the best timing to support the style
If you have very fine hair then maybe Beauty This close to the big day, Aimee says it’s time to focus on hydration in order to ensure that dewy, glowing look for the big day. ‘I always advise my brides to drink at least a litre and a half of water every day and to ensure they are moisturising fully including the neck and décolletage.’
Two weeks to go Haircare Go for a final trim. Aimee says, ‘I would never recommend someone make a drastic change right before they get married.’ She does, how-
you wish to achieve.
you need a little extra help. Aimee suggests extensions. ‘For very fine hair I recommend extensions to thicken the hair, adding
•
DO get in-salon treatments and blow
both additional volume and length. Usually I
dries in the weeks prior to the big day
work these into the hair about a week before
when the budget allows. As well as keep-
or after the final colour.’
ing you looking fab for those girlie days out, the treatments and styling will help
Beauty
build up good conditioning in the hair and
Add some skin-boosting products to your rou-
keep frizz and split ends to a minimum.
tine for the final week, such as Dermalogica Phyto Replenish Oil, a super-hydrating treat-
•
DON’T do anything extreme or drastic
ment that adds picture perfect luminosity to
to your hair before your wedding! This
the skin, and C-12 Pure Bright Serum, a highly
means NO crazy haircuts, colour chang-
potent skin-brightening serum that will multiply
es, or highlights that you have never tried
your glow factor!
before. This is NOT the right time to experiment!
•
DON’T overdo it! Some brides can be drawn to extremes in an effort to look different or special on their wedding day. You have your own personal look and style and the look you create should emphasise the best of your style.
•
DON’T wait until the last minute to figure out what look you want for your wedding. Make sure to road-test out your preferred style completely, including all the accessories that you plan on using. Have the stylist that will be doing your hair ON
Total Hair Care and Beauty by Total Hair Care are based in Marley Grange Retail
YOUR DAY create a full trial hair look for
Park, Grange Road, Rathfarnham. Open 9am-9pm, it’s perfect for discreet pamper-
you several weeks before the wedding.
ing, maintenance and anti-aging treatments for both women and men.
Wedding Countdown I IWD Beauty I 205
Never allow your guests to ever forget your Big day.
Clikring Photo Keyrings Wedding Favors www.clikring.ie info@clikring.ie Tel: 01 6268847 / 087 2521135
Rebecca Fox
Dublin based make up artist will travel to you for trial and on the big day.
Wedding Packages include a Free trial for Bride and strip or individual lashes Contact details for enquiries
Tel 0871632332 Email foxluxe19@gmail.com • Instagram: foxluxe_
206 I IWD I Wedding Diary Directory
UKEBOX
UKEBOX are an impeccable, talented and professional Ukelele Trio who play and harmonise like nobody else.
UKEBOX guarantee to bring fun and sunshine to your wedding or party and can walk from table to table entertaining your guests P h: 087-9831232 ukeboxmusic@gmail.c om Facebook.c om/ukeboxmusic Ukeboxmusic
www.thelooksband.ie - info@theloosband.ie Superior Entertainment - Non Stop Dancing 087 176 8014 - 087 767 2477 Wedding Diary Directory I IWD I 207
WOW is a unique, fully costumed, party band experience comprised of four professional musicians who have come together to form the ultimate wedding and party band. From Swing to Classic Hits, 80s/90s to Modern Chart Hits, we guarantee a packed dancefloor all night!
Facebook.com/wowpartyband
Wowpartyband
Tel: 0879831232 / 0868624614
wowpartyband@gmail.com
Cassidy Chauffeur Drive Vintage Wedding Car Specialists
Suppliers of Rolls Royce & Bentley Cars • Complimentary bottle of bubbly
Contact: 01-4501533 Mobile: 087 2567822 www.cassidychauffeurs.ie Cassidy Chauffeur Drive Spring 2018.indd 1
208 I IWD I Wedding Diary Directory
05/12/2017 20:06
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I joined WW to be healthy. Being at goal weight on my wedding day was something I never imagined. Vanessa V. WW member lost 4st
”
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LOUGH D
CASTLE O
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Wedding Packages from
â‚Ź69 per person
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Lough Eske Castle, Donegal Town, Co. Donegal, F94 HX59 T: +353 (0)74 97 25100 E: sales.lougheske@solishotels.com www.lougheskecastlehotel.com
