IRISH
Your Complete Guide to Getting Married in Ireland
New Rules for Modern
Weddings
Honeymoons And Weddings Abroad
Winter 2018
DIARY Preview of
2019
Wedding Dresses
Winter Wonderland
The Top
Wedding
Venues
Weddings
8Stories
Real Brides’
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Irish Wedding
DIARY
Winter 2018
Welcome Hello everyone and welcome once again to another issue of Ireland’s best-loved and top-selling bridal magazine. We’ve had a hectic few months topped off with our usual September visit to the Wedding & Honeymoon Show in the RDS which as always was a magnificent success. Well done again to Terry Burns and all at Wed.ie for organising such a fabulous show. As winter approaches, the long evenings are prefect for wedding planning and we have a bumper issue of Irish Wedding Diary to help you plan your perfect day. Whether you’re finalising the last minute details or just setting out on your wedding journey, for all you 2019 brides-to-be who thought they had lots of time to plan, well it’s starting to get close now so you should be finalising your arrangements. For those recently engaged and just setting out on your wedding journey you’ve more time to peruse this issue at your leisure. Either way we’ve got something inside this issue just for you. If you’re looking for that dream dress we have an exclusive preview of some of the 2019 wedding dress collections from the top international bridal design brands. Over 20 pages we feature some of the best creations that will available in Ireland from a bridal boutique near you in the next few weeks. Finding your dream wedding dress really does start here. This issue we also look at a few quirky ideas to make your wedding different, and we take a look at the new rules for weddings and a guide to the perfect winter wedding theme. We’ve got plenty of ideas for your gift registry list plus a lovely idea for a personal gift for your partner with a boudoir photoshoot. We also have competitions where you can win gift vouchers for Peter Mark and Fields Jewellers, plus weekends away in two great hotels. Honeymoons are the one part of the wedding which is truly just about the couple and with that in mind we have put together a great selection of honeymoon ideas for you to dream about. If you’re planning a wedding abroad you’ll find plenty of ideas for the dream destination wedding.
Cover Dress by Justin Alexander www.justinalexander.com
We haven’t forgotten the little extras that will help to make your wedding unique and we have
Publisher: IrishWeddingDiary.ie Ltd.
the tone, photographers to capture the event, outfits for the men and everything you will need 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
some wonderful ideas between the covers of this issue. We’ve got soloists and rock bands to set 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. We all love looking at other people’s weddings and we have another selection of real weddings for you to peruse. This issue we have eight real-life brides telling us their stories of getting married in Ireland and two who got married in Malta 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 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 under €10.
Editorial Assistant: Alex Joyce Alex@irishweddingdiary.ie
Happy Planning
Press Releases to: Alex@irishweddingdiary.ie or Rear 177 Rathgar Road, Rathmines, Dublin 6. Photography: Thomas Sunderland, David McNeill. Contributors: Andrea Hayes, Editor Elaine Hession Alex Joyce Peter Cole Carmel Russell 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 Winter 2018
www.irishweddingdiary.ie
Collection 2019
Find authorized retailers at: www.airebarcelona.com
16 32
Winter ion fasHion
34
Bride of tHe e W year sHoW
HealtH H & Beauty
42 64
WeddinG G rules ules
54 WeddinG G Gifts 66
Grooms’ oom room
82
BallymasCanlon anlon oot PHotosHoot WeddinG G travel ravel
Quirky’ WeddinGs WeddinG Gs
102
Winter Wonderland nderland
84
106
130
8 i iWd Contents i Winter 2018
16
Wedding Diary News
32
Preview of the Bride of the Year Show 2019
34 42
110
real eal WeddinGs s
166
Winter Fashion Wedding Beauty
50
Weight Watchers Wedding Weight Loss
54
Grooms Room
61
Competitions
64
New Wedding Rules
66
Wedding Gifts
78 82
Boudoir Photography Winter Wedding Wonderland
84
Ballymascanlon Hotel Bridal Photoshoot
102
Something Different Quirky Wedding Ideas
106
Wedding Travel
110 WeddinG G aBroad road
2019 Bridal ColleCtions tions
Contents
WeddinG G neWs s
Real Weddings Abroad
130
2019 Wedding Dress Collections
150
Ireland’s Leading Wedding Venues
153
Wedding Fairs
166
Real Weddings
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 NA DA
essensedesigns.com D2607
stellayork.com
6574
Silks
Super
DiaryNews Roisin Cross Silks stocks the most magnificent silks and bridal lace in Ireland. In-house services include both Bridal Design and Bridal Making. www.silks.ie
Ukulele Trio
Ukebox is a ukulele trio made up of three of the most reputable musicians 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: 087 983 1232 or Email: ukeboxmusic@gmail.com
Love is... in the Air
Love is always in the air at The Newgrange Hotel in Navan, Co Meath, and, this year, the hotel is celebrating 20 years in Navan and 20 years of hosting weddings for couples from all over Ireland. The magnificent Knowth Suite (named after the nearby medieval tomb) will be sure to impress your guests. This classic fairytale wedding venue, with its glowing chandeliers, ornate high ceilings, and dramatic full-length windows, is the perfect backdrop for you and your guests to celebrate your big day. The hotel also boasts a private drinks area on arrival for your guests.The Club Lounge is the perfect spot for everyone to gather to welcome you both to the hotel with a glass of bubbly and, in colder months, the roaring fires create the perfect atmosphere. On 21 October, they are holding their Autumn Open Day from 2-5pm. Go along and meet their wedding team, speak to the wedding experts and start your wedding journey with the Newgrange Hotel. Alternatively, they are available seven days a week to show you this beautiful venue. To make an appointment
16 I IWD I Wedding Diary News
to speak to their wedding experts, call 046 907 4100 or email weddings@newgrangehotel.ie
@SincerityBridal
#SincerityBride
|
sinceritybridal.com
Midlands Heart of
the
DiaryNews Sparkle Add some extra
Say ‘I do’ at the newly refurbished four-star wedding venue in the heart of the midlands: the all new Midlands Park Hotel. The all new four-star Midlands Park Hotel invites you to view their newly designed ballroom, bedrooms and suites. An investment of seven million over the past year and half has transformed this property into a very sought after wedding venue in the heart of the midlands. Nestled in the heart of Portlaoise town, the sophisticated urban setting is the perfect location for your wedding day. From the moment you arrive, the striking entrance creates an impressive sense of space and classic modern elegance. Immerse yourself in the luxury of the newly renovated ballroom with its natural lighting, lavish decor, mood lit ceiling, and fairy lit backdrop. Our brand new chiavari chairs complete the opulent style and feel to 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 overlooking bedroom, jacuzzi bath with TV, and lavish reception room with a further four suites beside the bridal suite on their own exclusive wing, just perfect for all your 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 Cities; the new Midlands Park Hotel is the ideal location for your wedding. Luxury in the Heart of the Midlands www.midlandsparkhotel.com Tel: 057-867 8588
18 I IWD I Wedding Diary News
Want to WOW up 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 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 A Small Change Can Make A Big Difference!
Boyne
The Beautiful
ming couples from all The stunning Ardboyne Hotel has been welco to plan their big day. venue t-after around Ireland who visit the sough facelift and is all set a gone under just has Suite The beautiful Boyne . season 020 for the 2019/2 e the Ardboyne Hotel There is a reason why so many couples choos amazing food, service detail, to ion for their special day - the attent unrivalled in Leinster. is e receiv guests their of and welcome that all .They still have prime person per €38.95 as little as from Prices start packages. 2019 dates available for their all-inclusive ured gardens for wedding manic The Ardboyne also offers beautifully ic next-day packages fantast kart, candy al photos, your own person with the wedding tment appoin an make To more! and so much nehotel.com rdboy ngs@a manager, call 046 9023119 or email weddi
Sat 26th & Sun 27th
January 2019 THE WED DING EVEN OF T T HE YEAR
SAVE TIME Book On-Line at www.wed.ie
RDS, MAIN HALL Spectacular Bridal Catwalk Shows @ 12:30pm & 3:30pm a wed.ie presentation
Sunday Super
DiaryNews
e u n e V l u f i t Beau
The beautiful Castle Arch Hotel, nestled in the heritage town of Trim, Co Meath, is the perfect venue for Sunday is the new Saturday and there are no Blue Mondays at The
your wedding day. This family run hotel is situated just a five-minute walk from Trim Castle and also has
Twelve Hotel.
its own wedding garden for those all-important wedding pictures. The Hotel has been welcoming couples from all around Ireland for the past 40 years to celebrate their special day and, today, it is still one of the
The Twelve Hotel’s Super Sunday package will ensure you start your
first choices for so many couples wanting excellent food, unrivalled service, and value for money.
week with #goodvibesonly. While the rest of the world is facing the
On November 2-3, the Hotel will be holding its Winter Wedding Showcase. Go along and meet the
Sunday fear and the Monday morning blues, you could be checking
wedding team and all of the wedding suppliers they work with. Learn all about the new King John’s wedding
into The Twelve Hotel for their Super Sunday package, where the only
package and start your wedding journey at the Castle Arch Hotel.
‘blues’ comes in the form of an intriguingly delicious bottle of fresh
They still have some prime dates available for 2019 and 2020. Their wedding experts are on hand seven
sparkling blue wine, Canto 5, which will greet you in your room on
days a week to show you the beautiful ballroom, newly refurbished bedrooms and of course to sample the
arrival.
amazing food! For more information, call 046 9431516 or email weddings@castlearchhotel.com
Georgina Campbell’s Hotel of the Year 2018, The Twelve Hotel has designed this hero of a getaway to rescue your Sundays this summer. The Twelve, with its usual quirky and intriguing take on all things food and wine, is serving a new wine that drinks like a rosé, but looks like nothing you’ve ever seen. It’s bright, vivid, sparkling blue, and you’ll get to sample it on arrival to The Twelve Hotel, where a chilled bottle awaits you in your guestroom. On Sunday evening, you will have the chance to experience fine dining at its absolute best in the cosy, laid back atmosphere of Upstairs at
Showcase
Wicklow Wedding
WEST. Enjoy a great night’s sleep in one of The Twelve’s beautiful guestrooms and there’ll be no need to set your alarm clock, as The
Home to BrookHall - a dedicated wedding venue and
Twelve serves a gorgeous home-cooked breakfast right up until
boasting a quaint chapel on the grounds for an idyllic
10.30am on Monday mornings.
ceremony,Wicklow’s BrookLodge & Macreddin Village is the perfect venue for you … You are cordially
Shake off any Monday blues with this Super Sunday package at The
invited to BrookLodge & Macreddin Village on Sunday,
Twelve Hotel, available Sundays until the end of October, from €100
14 October, for its upcoming wedding showcase.
per person sharing.
Please RSVP your attendance by calling 0402 36444 or by email to weddings@brooklodge.com.
The Twelve, Bearna, Co. Galway, Tel: +353 91 597000
Their dedicated crew will be on hand to provide a full
www.thetwelve.com www.westrestaurant.ie
tour of the Village and to answer any questions you may have about your big day. Imagine the possibilities…
22 I IWD I Wedding Diary News
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
V I C T O R I A K AY DESIGNER
BRIDAL
WEAR
W W W . V I C T O R I A K A Y . C O . U K
W W W . V I C T O R I A K A Y . C O . U K
Love of Dogs For The
DiaryNews
Dog Tales with Andrea Hayes’ 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 place in their hearts and homes for the abandoned animals. Filled with touching stories of love, loss, and transformation, these dog tales will uplift your soul, as you laugh, cry, and fall in love with these amazing animals who often rescue their new owners right back.
Entertainment Five Star
The Looks Band make it simple for you to make the right choice. High energy, live music, the band Would you consider including your furry four-legged canine friend in
have played all over Ireland with professional musicians, an extensive set list, and impressive sound
the wedding celebrations?
and lighting. The group is a dedicated wedding band entertainment specialist and know what it takes to put on the perfect show for non-stop dancing. Music from classic bands of the 60s, 70s, and 80s
You can support Dogs Trust Ireland and include them in your special
like The Beatles, Queen, and Journey to modern day music from Bruno Mars, Adele, and Taylor Swift
day with their unique and beautifully designed Dogs Trust donation
keeps the dance floor full from the first dance to the last. The Looks can also provide ceremony
card keepsakes which are a fantastic and popular alternative to
music, drinks reception and DJ service to finish out the night. You can have it all!
traditional wedding favours! Check out The Looks Band at www.thelooksband.ie they are simply - superior entertainment. Dogs Trust is Ireland’s largest dog welfare charity, their mission is to
Spend five minutes and savour hours of work!
bring an end the destruction of stray and abandoned dogs in Ireland
Tel: 087 176 8014 / 087 767 2477
You’d be barking mad not to check out page 190 to find out more.
Venue Breathtaking
Tulfarris is the perfect, breath-taking venue for your wedding celebration. A hidden gem located just 40 minutes from Dublin, your guests will experience exquisite surroundings and gourmet cuisine against a spectacular backdrop of the Blessington Lakes and Wicklow Mountains.With flair, style, and imagination, their team will ensure your wedding day will be truly magical. With just one wedding per day, the Tulfarris team are absolute experts in perfecting every detail. The resort comprises the stunning 18th Century manor house and is complemented by a luxury four-star hotel. They can host weddings for both small and large numbers, the maximum capacity being 250 guests for dinner.
26 I IWD I Wedding Diary News
Tel: +353 (0) 45 867 600 www.tulfarrisweddings.com
60109846 Wedding Diary 2017-V1.indd 1 Peter MarkPM Ad Irish Summer 2017.indd 1
16/02/2017 19:42 15:53 07/03/2017
Redesign DiaryNews Exciting
Magical Castle Weddings The Four-Star Riverside Park Hotel and Leisure Club, 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 South East. 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, the new chandeliers catch the mood-lit ceiling perfectly, giving every event a completely different ambiance and there are over 60 colours to choose from. The hotel is introducing new gold Chiavari chairs that will complement the rich warm gold colours of the design exquisitely. The ballroom lobby has been transformed, the walls have been risen and a skylight added, gold wallpaper and decorative chairs making this area comfortable and opulent perfect
Ireland’s only Island Castle is set on an enchanted 310-acre private island.
for your guests to mingle before your banquet.www.riversideparkhotel.ie Tel: 053 923 7800
This magical wedding destination is surrounded by the River Suir & accessed by private car ferry. The Resort offers the very best of Irish hospitality in the most beautiful surroundings imaginable. Dining in the 16th Century Castle provides an opportunity to taste the best of traditional and contemporary
Entertainment That’s
igious 2018 Ireland’s Shortlisted as finalists for the prest not just one but for ds, Wedding Journal Reader Awar Provider of the ent tainm Enter dding two awards - “We Year 2018” - the the of Band dding “We and ” Year 2018 really rock your wedding Bentley Boys are guaranteed to cians in town, playing musi party. Made up of the best o Mars, these guys Brun to y Berr k everything from Chuc se from a threeChoo . floor e danc a pack to know how that suits your style and to a 12-piece band for the look c and full DJ musi jazz inner wedding, with options of pre-d at one of live rm perfo band the see service. Come and in, Belfast, Cork, Athlone, our monthly showcases in Dubl have become Ireland’s or Kilkenny to see how these guys iders. Subscribe to prov ent leading wedding entertainm could be in with a you and r lette news our Bentley Buzz chance to WIN YOUR BAND! leyboysband.ie. Follow For more details, go to www.bent er, or subscribe to Twitt ook, them on Instagram, Faceb in: 01 443 4336, Dubl e Phon nel. Chan their You Tube ay: (091) 442350. Belfast: (028) 9099 2322 or Galw Email info@bentleyboysband.ie.
28 I IWD I Wedding Diary News
Irish cuisine. Awarded, Fine Dining Hotel of the Year & Irish Hotel of the Year 2018 by Irish Hotel Awards. The culinary team create artisan food & custom menus for you. Imagine a Castle on a private island that’s exclusively yours for your special day. t.+353 (0) 51 878 203
www.waterfordcastleresort.com
Coin Cuffl
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World C o
in Cufflin ks make out of o wedding ld coins cufflinks w hich can all male be worn members by of the w edding p www.wo arty. rldcoincu fflinks.co m
From today until your day, we do
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. With just one wedding per day, 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
DiaryNews
Perfect Setting
New Showroom Frilly’s brides are in for a brand-new shopping experience. This long-
established boutique has upped Frocks and moved into The Old Court House in historic Drogheda, Co. Louth, doubling their showroom space. Brides and their guests can meander around the rails of one of the largest and evergrowing collections of bridal wear, shoes and accessories on the east coast. Supplier partners include Eliza Jane Howell, House Of Mooshki, Mikaella Bridal, Stella York, and Rembo Styling with a full list on their website. Whether you are looking for a traditional, vintage, or boho frock, ‘Team Frillys’ passion for styling “your wedding your way” remains at the heart of their customer service and they look forward to seeing you soon. Tel: +353 41 980 1740 www.frillyfrocks.ie
Dunboyne Castle Hotel and Spa is the perfect setting for your dreams to come true. With such an idyllic setting, Dunboyne Castle and Spa offers a magnificent backdrop against which to set an exclusive wedding reception. With a sweeping tree-lined approach, the Old House stands majestically over its 21-acre demesne of mature formal gardens, making any arrival an unforgettable one. Dunboyne Castle Hotel and Spa prides itself on its exceptional service from the grandest occasions, expertly planned to the tiniest detail. Happily ever after begins here. Tel: +353 1 801 3500 www.dunboynecastlehotel.com
Wow Your Guests
WOW comprises four experienced musicians who have come together to form the ultimate wedding band. Between them, the 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; next, it’s the 90s. Then the final part of the show is filled with current floor fillers, keeping your night and 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!” said Shona O’Toole, Twitter. See www.facebook.com/wowpartyband Tel: 087 983 1232 Email: wowpartyband@gmail.com
30 I IWD I Wedding Diary News
Irish Wedding Diary Our New Website has Everything you need to plan your wedding in Ireland
T O TA
L LY
R
ES
News
PO
NSIVE
Suppliers
Dresses
We’ll keep you updated on the wedding related
You’ll find the top wedding suppliers in Ireland.
If it’s Wedding Dresses you’re after you won’t be
news be it the latest collection of Wedding Dress-
We’ve divided the wedding suppliers you’ll need
disappointed with Irish Wedding Diary Website.
es from top international Bridal Gown Designers
into four sections. “For the Bride” has everything
We have the latest collections from the top
available in Bridal Shops in Ireland, the latest
the bride needs to look and feel perfect on her
international designers all of whom have stockists
offers from the best Wedding Venues in Ireland or
wedding day. For the Event is everything else
in Ireland. We also have the best of Irish wedding
the best shots from Ireland’s top Wedding Photog-
you’ll need for the day, The grooms and guest
dress designers showcasing their latest creations.
raphers. From the proposal right through to the
section is for the other members of the bridal
With bridal boutiques and bridesmaid dresses
honeymoon and everything in between you’ll find
party and before and after is everything else
plus mother of the bride and occasion wear, your
useful hints and tips on how to make your dream
you’ll need in the planning stage and after the big
whole wedding attire is will be sorted for you at
day just perfect.
day including the all important honeymoon.
Irish Wedding Diary.ie.
www.IrishWeddingDiary.ie Weddings I IWD Feature I 31
The g Weddin the f Event o r. Yea you w o h S The an’t c ly p sim miss!
The of B take the Ye ride Dub s place ar Sho w and lin on S at the RDS atur Sun d , 201 d 9 fr ay 27t ay 26t om h Ja h 11a m – nuary For mor 5pm e inf . orm boo ation k tic , or bride kets, vis it ww to ofth eyea w. rsho w.ie
“The RDS Wedding Shows are the shows that all engaged couples look forward to and remember!”
32 I IWD Feature I Bride of the Year Show
ABOUT THE SHOW The One Stop Wedding Show! The Bride Of The Year Show is the ultimate destination for brides and grooms in the midst of planning their dream wedding. Whether traditional, quirky, vintage or themed, there will be something to suit every wedding.
Everything you need, want and dream of for
too with a full programme of entertainment on
your special day and ideal honeymoon can
offer.
be booked on the one day. Helping to take the stress out of wedding planning, the show
Not sure if you want the ballgown dress you
will not only save you time, but also money
dreamed of as child, or the vintage look that
as many exhibitors offer exclusive show-only
you have recently fallen in love with? The
offers and discounts.
Bridal Catwalk Shows will help you to ‘Say Yes!’ to your dream dress. An integral part of The
The
two-day
wedding
extravaganza
has
everything from inspiration for your dream dress, the photographer who can capture the perfect shot to evening entertainment that will make you dance the night away! With leading wedding exhibitors in attendance, covering all aspects of planning your wedding and honeymoon, the Bride of the Year Show is definitely one that all engaged couples look forward to and remember!
Anyone currently planning their big day can
Bride of the Year Show, and taking place at
take advantage of talking and exchanging
12:30pm and 3:30pm daily, these spectacular
ideas with the professionals who really do
Catwalk Shows provide the ideal opportunity
make wedding dreams come true. Whether
for couples to view the latest bridal gowns,
you are planning a low key, intimate day or
bridesmaids’ dresses, occasion-wear, mother-
an all-out glamourous party, the talented and
of-the-bride outfits and suits for the groom on
professional exhibitors are sure to help you on
the catwalk.
your way to your dream day! This year, the Main Catwalk Show will host Say ‘I Do’ Abroad!
an exclusive wedding fashion collection with
At The Bride of the Year Show, destination
the hottest, on trend styles for this year’s
weddings are a speciality!
weddings!
Find everything for your perfect wedding
With music, dance moves and a few surprises
and honeymoon abroad from our selection
along the way, the Catwalk Shows are sure to
of knowledgeable wedding experts, from key
help you say ‘I do’ in the right dress for you!
As you browse the stunning styles, sample delicious
cakes
and
check
out
idyllic
honeymoon ideas, you will get to meet leading Irish wedding professionals, wedding planners from home and abroad and honeymoon destination specialists.
locations across the world all under one roof at Ireland’s largest spring wedding showcase.
Free Makeovers! A lucky groom-to-be and mother-of-the-bride,
No matter what your budget is, where your ideas are taking you or who you are walking up the aisle with, The Bride of the Year Show welcomes everyone on the wedding planning journey.
For those hoping to have their wedding
randomly chosen from the audience prior to
abroad, whether it is on the beautiful shores
each show, will receive a fantastic makeover
of Lake Garda, or overlooking an enchanting
from our team of expert stylists and fashion
Spanish Monastery, you will meet wedding
gurus. They will then return to the main stage
specialists from the best locations in Europe,
to show off their new look to the audience.
Asia, Africa, America, Caribbean and beyond. It is the only Wedding Show you need! Save Time and Money! The Bride of the Year Show gives you the opportunity to meet with a range of leading wedding specialists, all under one roof, who will be on hand to offer invaluable advice and inspiration for your special day.
Our industry experts will be on hand to provide
The One Stop Wedding Show
expert advice, inspiration and money saving
With everything you need to plan your special
tips, so you can plan your dream wedding or
day in one place, The Bride of the Year Show
honeymoon with ease and excitement!
will be a magical and unforgettable experience.
Sensational Catwalk Shows As well as showcasing a host of suppliers to help you plan your perfect day, the show makes a great day out for family and friends
www.wed.ie
Bride of the Year Show I IWD Feature I 33
Fash on
Compiled by Elaine Hession
Blazer Lily
Navy Ono Tie LS Dress €279.95 by Arnotts Samsoe & Samsoe
Magee 1866 Lily Blazer, €375.00
Skater Little
Little Mistress Navy Skater Dress €70
In The Navy
Skirt Pleated
Lace VIP
Lipsy VIP Navy Lace Dress €139
Dress Victora
Magee 1866 Victoria Dress, €294
Heel Court
Navy Court Heel €40 at Next
34 I IWD Feature I Fashion
Navy Daria Pleat Skirt €164.95 by Arnotts Samsoe & Samsoe
Clutch Lipsy
Lipsy Clutch Bag €36
BrookLodge & Macreddin Village is set in a truly spectacular Wicklow Valley less than an hour’s drive from South Dublin; home to BrookHall - a venue uniquely dedicated to your Wedding Day with a heavenly Chapel on the grounds, perfect for the solemnisation of civil marriages and a picturesque venue for a simple but intimate blessing.
Co. Wicklow, Ireland T: 0402 36444 | E: weddings@brooklodge.com | W: www.brooklodge.com
Fash on Compiled by Elaine Hession
Lace Black
Trouser Wide
New Look Black Lace Top Side Split Dress €80
Magee 1866 Willow Wide Trouser €99
Blouse Silk
Magee 1866 Darcy Silk Blouse €135
Little Mistress Black Skirt €50
Back to BLACK
Earrings Drop
Dress
Issa London Dress €110 Bag €40 Both at House of Fraser
Suit Jump
Lipsy Belted Slim Leg Jumpsuit €45
Detail
Karen Millen Black Shoulder Detail Dress €190 at Arnotts
Principles drop earrings €15 at Debenhams
Heel Pump
GUESS Oklyn Pump Heel €128
36 I IWD Feature I Fashion
London Issa
An inspired Wedding Venue in the heart of Dublin City There is something very special about getting married in a beautiful wedding venue in Dublin, the city you know and love surrounded by your nearest and dearest. Standing tall and proud on College Green for the past 150 years, The Banking Hall at The Westin Dublin is the city’s perfect destination venue for a most memorable wedding day. An idyllic wedding venue, The Banking Hall at The Westin Dublin provides everything you need to say ‘I do’ in style in the company of up to 200 of your wedding guests.
Contact
Email weddings@thewestindublin.com Call (01) 645 1440 Visit www.thewestindublinweddings.com
Fash on
Clutch Mint Green
Compiled by Elaine Hession
Fresh
River Island Green Jewel clutch €50
Forest Green
Lipsy Forest Green Maxi Dress €99
Velvet Green
Blouse Green
Miss Selfridge Dark Green Velvet Blazer €72
New Look Green Blouse €70
Forest Green
Sleeves Puff
Earrings Emerald
Debenhams Green Earrings €12
Dress Tie
Dorothy Perkins Green Jacquard Tie Dress €47
Prettylittlethings.com Bright Green Puff Sleeve Button Up Blazer Dress €45
Boots Sock
Green Pointed Sock Boots €36
38 I IWD Feature I Fashion
https://goo.gl/AbKWZT
Fash on
Velvet Elegant
Compiled by Elaine Hession
Dress
Stars Red
Bacall
Pretty Eccentric, Bacall dress, €200
Star by Julien Macdonald €140 at Debenhams
Clutch Red
Dune London Brocco - €89
t e p r a C d Re Ready
Earrings Floral
Red Herring Dress €70, Faith Boots €66
Frills
Linen
Monsoon Whitney Linen Frill Dress €90
Sleeves
Littlewoods Ireland by Very 3D Floral Earrings – Red €15
Collar &
Red Dress from Dorothy Perkins
Heeled Well
Faith Red Stiletto €45 at Debenhams
40 I IWD Feature I Fashion
Principles Sequence Skirt €50
A Proud TrAdiTion
Finnstown Castle Hotel, Newcastle Rd, Lucan, Co. Dublin Telephone: (01) 601 0700 • www.finnstowncastlehotel.com
Destination Honeymoon With Beauty Editor Elaine Hession
Staying stylish and fabulous is always on the agenda, so make sure you have your honeymoon makeup bag essentials on point for any type of adventure whether you are island hopping or city loving. One thing is for sure, these beauty essentials will have your glow ready to go from the bright lights of the city to the sun, sand and the surf. Bring it on, I hear you say!
Haul
Magic Eye
Your favourite eye cream is essential after a long flight, tired eyes are a sure way to ruin those romantic snaps you want to bring home to show your family and friends. Bring an eye cream that will reduce puffiness and dark circles like Nuxe Nuxellence Eye Contour which smoothes, illuminates and instantly perfects tired eyes. Nuxe Nuxellence, Youth Revealing and Perfecting Anti-Aging Total Eye Contour €38.
The Long
Winks Forty
Start with a good makeup bag that will hold a lot of stuff and that you can see at a glance when you unzip. It also helps if it’s lined with something waterproof (just in case of any leaks or spillages whilst on
Catch forty winks on board. A good eye mask is
the move).
essential if you have a few hours of catching up to do!
Makeup bag by Laura Ashley €35
Control
White Bride Eye Mask by Lipsy €10
Pore
Hot weather can cause clogged pores and oilier complexions, so it’s important to invest in a good holiday serum. Try this innovative formula from Clarins for a hydrated, nourished complexion. Clairns Pore Control - Pore Minimising Serum 30mls RRP €50
High Sky
Avoid the jetlag and drink plenty of water to stay well hydrated on your travels. Try taking
Proof Water
A great waterproof mascara is always wise for your honeymoon. You might want to wear just mascara
and
tinted
moisturiser
to look somewhat awake on the beach. At least if it’s waterproof
a kit cleanse before your trip. Nutritional
it won’t sweat off or come off in
therapist Gabriella Peacock introduces a
the pool. The new Super Volume
three day travel kit to ensure you combat
Mascara by Clarins has an easy-
jetlag by revitalising the body’s immunity
to-apply slim comb-like wand. It’s
with key ingredients to cleanse, boost and
great for separation and volume and
calm.
doesn’t smudge.
Available at www.gonutrition.com
Mascara Supra Volume Autumn
€11.13
42 I IWD Beauty I Honeymoon
Edition €26
Clonfolic Irish Wedding Diary A4 FA.pdf
C
M
Y
CM
MY
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CMY
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05/07/2016
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Brushes
Destination Honeymoon
Mini
Lippy
With Beauty Editor Elaine Hession
Get
Avoid packing a tonne of lipsticks and
glosses that you might not even wear on your honeymoon, and instead, pack just one
Chose the shorter-
single lippy or gloss that will go with all your
length makeup brushes
outfits. A bright red colour will add an extra
instead of the long stick
touch of glamour to your evening looks,
brushes. They will easy fit in
and will also complement your tan perfectly.
to smaller spaces and, believe me,
If red just isn’t the colour for you, try a
you will want to look your best on a romantic
summery orange or a flattering nude tone.
night out. The Elite collection encased in a gorgeous white
This stunning shade oozes sophisticated
quilted style clutch is perfect for bridal getaway.
applications.
Available online at www.nimabrush.com
Clairns Joli Rouge Gradation (Available
The Starter Collection (7 professional brushes) €49
in 3 stunning shades)
Illuminate
Factor
Skin
The X
We all know that wearing a decent sunscreen on our
Liquid illuminators are a great holiday essential, as they
faces every day is one of the best routes to having
give you a dewy look that complements your tan perfectly.
younger-looking skin for longer. Ideal for those with
Pack a cappuccino-coloured illuminator, as this can be
oily to combination skin, the formula delivers double
used as a bronzer, highlighter and eye shadow, which
anti-shine action and immediate absorption to keep
will make your beauty bag a lot lighter. You’re also a lot
shiny skin in check
less likely to sweat off creamy makeup products as well,
La Roche-Posay Anthelios Tinted Dry Touch
which makes them even more of a bonus when out in the
Gel SPF50+ €19.50
heat. The new Tom Ford primer is the perfect combo for honeymoon getaways. Tom Ford Complexion Enhancing Primer 30ml €64
Nourish Skin
BB cream is the way forward! It is a
combination of beauty balms, sunblock and foundation. During the day you will want something light that will nourish your skin and keep you looking good! BB cream can do all of this with only a small amount. Try Vichy Idéalia BB Cream for a fresh faced look. Vichy Idéalia BB Cream €23
44 I IWD Beauty I Honeymoon
Scents Making
Last but not least; you need a good fragrance to set the mood right. Go for a fragrance which feels fresh but not overpowering at the same time. Especially for a beach honeymoon, you need a perfume that relaxes your senses as well as smell divine. A sparkling vanilla rose with a twist of bergamot oozes a lush scent that’s perfect for honeymoon getaways or a wedding abroad. Woman in Gold Travel Spray 4x7.5ml vials €135
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
Glove
Wedding Radiance
Hand in
Tanning has just got even easier! Get the
With Beauty Editor Elaine Hession
perfect tan using the extra precision of your fingers without worrying about the uneven
When the wedding is only a few months away, you don’t need to reinvent the wheel, but now is the time to stay diligent and add a couple of new products for an extra boost of radiance.
tanning that normal mitts leave behind. The new innovative glove is the brain wave of Irish entrepreneur Janice O’Sullivan for faster applications and more even applications The Glove €9.95
Cleanse Mood Fresh
Set The
Get serious about your skin care regimen by cleansing the skin. This will help keep your skin under control when you get stressed out from planning.
The new anti-pollution expert cleanser from Vichy cleans skin of impurities and
Celtic Candle, Relax.
pollutants. Enriched with the anti-pollution Purisoft complex (Amilite, Glycerin and
Available from
Moringa) to both deeply cleanse skin and protect cells against pollutants, such
Arnotts €14.95
as cigarette smoke, mercury and coal particles. The gel formula feels fresh on the skin, foaming when rinsed with water to leave skin clear and soft, free from impurities and any skin discomfort associated with city living and busy wedding prep. Vichy Pureté Thermal Cleansing Gel, RRP €15.00
Booster Skin
This luxurious cream is the overnight secret your skin has been looking for. It works to revitalise the appearance of your skin while you sleep. Its robust mineral complex will enhance skin tone, smooth, and energise skin. It has
Build up your skin’s defence and shield against environmental
blue-green algae extract, a natural retinoid
aggressors on the go by spritzing a new-age facial mist over
alternative, which diminishes the appearance
your face before heading outdoors. The new Anti-Pollution
of fine lines and keeps skin hydrated. The gel-
Spritzing mist promises to strengthen your skin and clear
texture delivers water to the skin and locks in
your complexion. The perfect way to protect your skin in the
vital nutrients while you sleep. Simply pop it
run-up to your wedding.
on before you go to bed, and you’ll wake up
Academie Anti-Pollution Spritzing mist with active
glowing perfect for any bride.
skin boosters €29.20
IMAGE Vital C Hydrating Overnight
Scrub
Masque €59.50
Body
Enjoy luxurious moments with Tom Ford’s body scrub
Wonder Overnight
Glow Golden
to polish away dead skin cells and rejuvenate the skin.
A non-oily, lightweight self tan gel, which is easy to apply
Lightly exfoliate damp skin concentrating on areas of
and dries quickly, so no need to wait before getting dressed.
rough skin: elbows, knees, feet. Rinse well. It’s the
Formulated with unique plant extracts that nourish the skin as
perfect start to prepping the skin on the run up to
you tan. Apply occasionally for a subtle golden colour or apply
your wedding.
more frequently for a deeper bronze colour. This long-lasting
Tom Ford Neroli Portofino Body Scrub €52.00
everyday tanner is the perfect accessory to any bridal event.
46 I IWD Beauty I Wedding Radiance
Clarins Self Tanning Instant Gel 125ml €26.00
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 €50.00 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
Opener
Wedding Radiance
Eye
Conceal
With Beauty Editor Elaine Hession
Controlled
Control last minute breakouts with the newly
formulated concealer stick from Vichy Dermablend. The long-lasting corrective concealer can even cover tattoos to leave skin flawless. Available in five shades which are perfectly blendable with an
An eye opening gel that is perfect for lining and defining the
SPF30 to protect as it perfects.
contours of the eye. An intense black gel liner that’s fool-proof
Vichy Dermablend SOS Corrective Stick
to create the most perfect feline flick.
16 Hour SPF25 RRP €16.95
Clarins Waterproof Eyeliner Gel RRP €26
Primer
Tones
Hero
Golden
Red Classic
A hero product from MAC that doubles
as a primer and a makeup fix to set your
Begin your journey towards radiant skin by
foundation. Formulated with a soothing
creating a healthy, natural-looking glow. The
botanical blend of Green Tea, Chamomile and
powder’s silky texture lets you customise your
Cucumber, the water-based spray infuses skin
glow from subtly sun-kissed to just-stepped-off-
with a cocktail of vitamins, antioxidants and
the-beach bronze. Great for the honeymoon bag.
nutrients, helping to soften and condition
KISS NY Pro Ombre Radiance Palette
the skin. The new mini version is the perfect
€19.95
lightweight facial mist that will keep your
A signature classic from MAC’s mini collection. The beautiful Ruby Woo shade is the ultimate lippy to complement any look and ensures long lasting love and timeless glamour of colour that’s perfect for retro brides. Ideal for the beauty bridal bag. MAC Ruby Woo mini RRP €12
Gloss Get The
foundation intact for a very long wedding day. MAC Little Prep + Prime Fix+ Water 30ml RRP €12.00
Illusions No
Start with the perfect foundation for a sheer, barely
there look. When it comes to picking the best foundation for your skin, you should take your undertone into consideration. If you have cool skin, you’ll want a foundation that leans cool, and if you have warm skin, you’ll want a foundation that leans warm. You can’t go wrong with the new Clairns Skin Illusions available in 22
A handy miniature for bridal applications throughout the celebrations. MAC Mini Lip Gloss Oyster Girl €12.00
48 I IWD Beauty I Wedding Radiance
stunning shade to suit all skin tones. Clarins Skin Illusions SPF 15 €35
White Amber Photography
www.whiteamberphotography.com info @whiteamberphotography.com Phone 00353(0)877656706
Exclusive Destination Wedding Photographer Ireland & Worldwide
Life Long Wellness Vanessa has battled with her weight most of her life, describing herself as an “emotional eater”. Here she tells us how she managed to change her habits and lose 4 stone.
I
have battled with my weight since I was a very young child. I used to attend dietitians and was in and out of Temple Street Hospital as a teenager. I’m sure if I was to look at notes now, I would have been in the obese category. I remember making my confirmation, and I was a size 18. And I got bigger again.
with my pal and next door neighbour Kellyann I couldn’t have done it without her. We spurred each other on. Prior to losing the weight, I had been taking anti-inflammatory treatments for my back, a problem that they never associated with my
It has been a massive journey for me mentally.
I never addressed my emotional issues. I
weight, it was only when I went back for my
I’ve had to ask myself why I was eating the
needed to wait until I was mentally ready to
6 month review that they couldn’t believe the
way I was. Why was I turning to food. There
give it my all.
movement. They thought I had a condition
have been events this year that have shook
which affected the lower part of my spine.
me and made me stop, assess and address the
In 2016, there were two sudden deaths in my
Now they have said I don’t have that condition
reasons why I was overeating. Any event in my
family. The underlying issue with both of them
and have more or less signed me off. It was a
life, from a child onwards, I would turn to food
was an unhealthy lifestyle. With two young
major non-scales victory.
like a comfort.
children myself – a son aged 5 and a daughter aged 3, I want to be around as long as I can
I have been over 20 years in an out of Weight
be. I don’t want to be irresponsible in that way.
Watchers, but wouldn’t get near goal, because
In January 2017, I re-joined Weight Watchers
I feel both mentally and physically healthier and happier.
I reached my personal goal of 4 stone on the 4th October 2017, I have been maintaining this since. Overall, I am ecstatic with my progress, I feel both mentally and physically healthier and happier. I can run around the playground with my kids now. I can run up the hills. That is not something that I realised I wasn’t doing until I started doing it, if that makes sense. Loads of stuff I have done over the last few months, I realised I couldn’t do it before.
50 I IWD Advertorial I Weight Watchers Photography by: Cathal Farrelly at www.irishweddingvideo.com
My Wedding My now husband gave me the best Christmas
I was terrified the dresses wouldn’t close! To
present ever on Christmas eve 2017 when he
my delight, all the dresses zipped! Nikki was
proposed! It was just magical! After losing four
absolutely amazing, she gave me all styles and
stone in 2017 it was the first ever Christmas
colours, we must have tried 20 dresses! I can
where I felt comfortable and happy in myself
honestly say there was not one that I didn’t
and then to get engaged was the icing on the
like, I just wasn’t getting the butterflies, then
cake!
we spotted the Nicole Spose dress, which was a blush colour, never in a million years did I
To be at goal when looking for my dress and on my wedding day was something I never imagined
think I’d go for that! But Wow! When I tried it on I cried, my stomach did somersaults and I just knew there and then, this is the one! I wanted to dance in it straight away! My Gran, My Mam and my daughter were with me and I will cherish that special memory of having the four generations together forever!
I booked our venue at the start of February and quickly moved onto finding my dream
On the day, I just couldn’t wait to be ready
dress given the six month timescale that I had
and step in my dress, I was never so excited
to order it, I was nervous going to Bridal by
in my life! When I finally got to put it on I felt
Nikki as mentally I still though what if I’m not
a million dollars! The day was everything I
the size I think I am? I know it sounds funny
dreamed of and more, and the smile on my
but being overweight all my life, it’s taken some
face never left! Joining Weight Watchers for me
time to mentally see me for who I am now,
wasn’t about fitting into a dress, I wasn’t even
engaged! I wanted to be healthy and that was my goal! But to be at goal when looking for my dress and on my wedding day was something I never imagined and I will be eternally grateful to my amazing coach Allison Moore, My friend Kellyann and all the wonderful people from class who supported me on my journey. My dress was purchased at Bridal by Nikki My Make up was done by MRSmakeup My hair was done by HairbyLorna (Lorna Davis)
Gold WW Member KellyAnn also maintaining a 4st weightloss, with Coach Alison and Vanessa Coach Alison facilitates WW classes in Millfield Shopping Centre, Balbriggan Wednesdays 9am, 10am and 6pm St Gabriels Parish
For local class details At Work or At Home service visit weightwatchers.ie or call 01 8703900
Centre, St Gabriels Road, Clontarf, D3 Fridays 9.15am
Weight Watchers I IWD Advertorial I 51
Award-Winning Salon Tralee Salon Brush n Blush goes from strength to strength
S
ince opening Brush n Blush almost four years ago on the outskirts of Tralee, this salon has gone from strength to strength winning numerous awards. They won Hair and Beauty Salon of the Year SW 2016, Wedding Hair and Beauty Salon of the Year SW 2017 and 2018 and First Class Hair Salon at the Irish Hair and Beauty Awards. At the Connect Kerry Hair and Beauty awards, salon owner Frances won Overall Hair Individual of the Year 2017 while Zoe won Junior Make up Artist of the Year 2018. Brush & Blush also won “Bridal Hair Studio” of the year 2018 at the recent Irish Hair and Beauty Awards.
to brides and loves to advise on headpieces styles etc. She believes that being a bridal upstylist goes so much further than doing hair on the morning of a wedding. She has often helped brides dress, dressed flower girls, distracted brides from any nerves and mainly make sure everyone is working on schedule including photographers. This year, Brush n Blush were awarded “Bridal Hair and Make up Salon of the Year 2018” at the Brides of Kerry Wedding Awards, Maureen won “Occasion and Bridal Upstylist of the Year 2018” at the Connect Kerry Hair and Beauty Awards and “Young Business Woman of the Year 2018” at the Connect Kerry Woman in Business Awards. They have had two television appearances this year and have featured in RSVP magazine. Brush n Blush are also nominated for “Most Stylish Salon” in the Hi Style Magazine awards this November. Brush n Blush are preparing to open a second business this October, “Brush n Blush Beauty” which will be a beauty salon with its own private
Brush n Blush started off with two senior stylists,
salon on the morning of their wedding, they offer
Frances and Maureen (mother and daughter),
a complimentary breakfast buffet to go that extra
plus a junior and now proudly have a team of four
mile in taking the stress out of their morning.
senior stylists, two juniors, a receptionist, a nail
Maureen is a passionate bridal upstylist who thrives
technician and two make up artists. Six months
on the intimacy of a wedding morning and believes
ago, Brush n Blush relocated to a fabulous salon in
in patience and attention to detail when it comes
the middle of Tralee town centre. Brush N Blush love to be part of a bride’s special day, their advanced bridal upstylist and make up artists will take care of bridal parties in the salon or travel to the hotel. If the bride comes to the
52 I IWD Profile I Brush n Blush
room for bridal parties. The sky is the limit for the Brush n Blush team. Brush n Blush Market Gate House, Milk Market Lane Tralee, Co Kerry. Tel: 066 711 9440 Email: brushnblush66@yahoo.com
A very Special Date in an Extraordinary Estate Uniquely situated in 120 acres of glorious wooded parkland and gardens close to Dublin, The Johnstown Estate offers a combination of Georgian splendour and modern luxury, making it the perfect setting for your special day. Whether it is an intimate gathering or an extravagant celebration, our experienced wedding coordinator is dedicated to making your day truly extraordinary.
Enfield, Co. Meath. Tel: +353 (0)46 954 0000. Email: info@thejohnstownestate.com www.thejohnstownestate.com
3744 - Johnstown Confetti wedding ad.indd 1
23/08/201
Groom’s
Room
Collar Fur
Compiled by Peter Cole
Zip up High Collar faux fur
Bomber Jacket at River Island
Neck Crew
Peach crew neck top Criminal at House of Fraser -€25
Print Palm
Leonardo Palm Print Suit Jacket Label Lab
€120 - House of Fraser
Coat
Blazer
Epsom
Printed
Compact Wool Epsom Coat
Patterned Blazer
€280 - Jigsaw
€89 Marks & Spencer
Wind Polar
Superdry Polar Wind Attacker €104.99 - Superdry
Jones Jack &
Maroon Jack & Jones Premium blazer €120 - River Island
Leather Brown
Dune Mens - Nate leather belt €40 - Mens at Dune
54 I IWD Feature I Groom’s Room
Knit
Textured
Rib Textured Knit €13 Penneys (Ireland)
Wedding Collection Collection Wedding Hire Sales Hire - Sales
mckenna man mckenna man Dundalk - Drogheda - Navan Dundalk - Drogheda - Navan www.mckennaman.ie
www.mckennaman.ie
Scarf Striped
Groom’s
Room
Mustard Stripe Scarf €25
Burton Menswear London
Compiled by Peter Cole
Mac
Cotton
Cotton twill mac Turner & Sanderson at House of Fraser - €150
Dotty
a little
Burgundy Shirt,
€11 Penneys (Ireland)
Winter Comfy
Hoodie and Shorts from Next
Bag
Messenger
Puffa
Khaki
Superdry Line Merchant Messenger €64.99 - Superdry
Khaki Fade Puffa,
€25 Penneys (Ireland)
Trench In The
Boots Brown
Dune London - Courtinho - €155 Mens at Dune
Autograph Trench
€210 - Marks & Spencer
Gloves Leather
18 Black Leather Gloves
€35 - Burton Menswear London
56 I IWD Feature I Groom’s Room
Dermot Byrne Winter 2017.indd 1
12/09/2017 13:27
Groom’s
Room Compiled by Peter Cole
Blazer Blue
Textured Blue Blazer at Topman
Mac Black
Coat Island Charcoal
Love
Black Mac Label Lab at House of Fraser €99
M&S Collection Coat
€150 - Marks & Spencer
Coat, Shirt Jeans and Shoes all from River Island
Cord Grey
Grey Cord Suit Jacket
€110 - Burton Menswear London
Cotton Navy
Navy Cotton Shirt,
€11 - Penneys (Ireland)
Stripe Pin
Navy Pinstripe Leaf Print Shirt €50 - TK Maxx
Coat Sleeves Charcoal
Long Red
Pure Cotton Textured Crew Neck Jumper €54 - Marks & Spencer
Red Long Sleeved Shirt at River Island
Brogues Brown
58 I IWD Feature I Groom’s Room
Dune London - Perivale Shoes €140 - Mens at Dune
memories
YOUR PRIVATE ISLAND
Nestled at the heart of a tranquil island, the five star Fota Island Resort with its breath-taking scenery and leafy woodlands is an idyllic location for the wedding of your dreams. Elegantly combining old world charm with the new, Fota Island Resort is a wonderful setting to celebrate your wedding reception, blessing or civil ceremony.
Join us for our Wedding Showcase Sunday 27th January, 12pm – 5pm. Our dedicated Wedding Team would be delighted to assist you in creating your perfect day.
For further information contact our Wedding Team T +353 (0)21 488 3700 E weddings@fotaisland.ie
HOTEL SPA GOLF CLUB GOLF ACADEMY LODGES Fota Island Resort, Fota Island, Cork, Ireland. www.fotaisland.ie
Find us on
Groom’s
Room Velvet Bag Compiled by Peter Cole
Red
Red Velvet Scarf from River Island
Black
Black Holdall €70 - Next
Outdoors Look Great
Jacket, Shirt, Trousers and Boots from Marks & Spencer
Parka Orange
Orange Fur Trim Parka
€110 - Burton Menswear London
Flake Snow
Joules Snowflake Jumper John Lewis
Jacket Zipper
Stripes Colour
Black zip-up jacket with
mustard collar and cuffs from River Island
Long Sleeve T-shirt from Topman
Pack Back
Dune London - Nathan Back Pack €75 - Mens at Dune
60 I IWD Feature I Groom’s Room
Shoes Derby
Derby shoes €85 Next
Win One of These Great Prizes October For our October Competition Fields The Jeweller is giving one lucky bride the chance to win a €200 gift card to spend in any of their stores nationwide. You’ll find your perfect wedding ring at Fields who are proud to offer a captivating collection of precious metal and gemstone wedding rings. Their ravishing range of classic and contemporary styles and designs are perfect to complement engagement rings. To enter this competition go to www.irishweddingdiary.ie during October Check out www.www.fields.ie
November during november Bridal by Tamem Michael are offering one lucky reader a €350 voucher to spend on any wedding dress in their range. Not only do Bridal by Tamem Michael stock their own beautiful TM Couture label but they also carry some stunning dresses from Design houses from around the world. You can have lots of fun viewing Boho to funky, romantic and traditional. To enter this competition go to www.irishweddingdiary.ie during november Check out www.bridalloft1.com
December Our december competition gives you a chance to win one nights Bed and Breakfast in the wonderful waterford Castle. Waterford Castle is Ireland’s only island castle and 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. To enter this competition go to www.irishweddingdiary.ie during december Check out www.bellinterhouse.com
To enter and for full details plus terms and conditions check out
www.irishweddingdiary.ie and answer the simple question
61 I IWD Feature I Competition
Competition I IWD Feature I 61
Elegance & Sophistication
Kenneth Winston Bridal Design House, founded in 1984, boasts a 30-year pedigree of bridal design and distinction. Kenneth and Winston have steadily grown with and developed collections that combine modern sass with old-fashioned charm. The Kenneth Winston collections are perfect for the bride dreaming of an elegant and sophisticated wedding, while Ella Rosa focuses on the girl next door who’s after a beautiful style at a lower price-point. Through and through, the collection is a perfect mix of timeless and contemporary, with plenty of options for brides seeking the traditional princess gown or a modern cut silhouette. From sizes 2-28, there is a custom made-to-measure service and length options available on all Kenneth Winston and Ella Rosa gowns. Collections Available: Kenneth Winston / Ella Rosa / Gallery by Ella Rosa Femme by Kenneth Winston / Colour By Kenneth Winston
Kenneth Winston Stockists throughout Ireland: Southern Ireland: Ban Bridal - Limerick • Brides Of Eire - Clonalkilty • Elite Bridal - Limerick • Ivory Lane - Limerick • Moderne Bridal - Cork • Padanee Bridal Couture – Carrick-on-Shannon • Simones - Sligo • Tamem Michael - Dublin • Vows Wedding Store - Cork • White Designer Studio – Meath Northern Ireland: Angel Star – Belfast • Angelic Bridal – Banbridge • Forever Bridal – Belfast • The Bridal Suite – Bangor
62 I IWD Profile I Kenneth Winston
Beautiful Weddings at the Newgrange Hotel Navan Our wedding experts and staff are on hand to make your big day the best day! Packages starting from €34.95 per person and all-inclusive packages from €6999
Wedding open day Sunday 21st st October- 2-5pm To enquire call us on 046-9074100 or email weddings@newgrangehotel.ie
www.newgrangehotel.ie
BESPOKE WEDDINGS
IN A TRULY MAGICAL, EXCLUSIVE WEDDING VENUE. Spectacular wedding banquets are held in the Pavilion, a light-filled, mirrored, dining room with Chiavari chairs and a fairy-light canopy creating an atmospheric wedding which looks just as impressive in the darker winter months as it does in the summer. Blessings & ceremonies are held in The Mill ceremony room, a unique setting, full of character with original brick work, exposed beams, chandeliers and rustic charm. The Millhouse combines old world charm and contemporary design to create a very unique, luxury wedding venue.
CHOOSE FROM ONE OF OUR FOUR ALL-INCLUSIVE PACKAGES WHICH INCLUDE; • Red carpet, welcome drinks & canapés on arrival • Wedding banquet, whether it is our barbecue style menu or one of our lavish four-course dinner menus • Half bottle of wine per person • Selection of late food • Tea lights & candles throughout the Mill, Pavilion and Main House • Seasonal flowers in the Riversuite drawing rooms • Large easel to display your table plan • Pre-wedding tasting banquet
Viewings by appointment only The Millhouse, The Old Mill, Slane, Co. Meath Tel: 041 9820878 Email: information@themillhouse.ie Web: www.themillhouse.ie
New Rules For Weddings Some traditions are worth keeping but not all of them. Claudia Gocoul takes us through what traditions to ditch at the altar.
O
ne, don’t pick up the phone … Oops, our bad, wrong rules, they’re Dua Lipa’s. We all know the basic set of rules that come with weddings: guests shouldn’t wear white, brides should; the bride’s parents foot the bill, Dad walks the bride up the aisle ... However, times have well and truly changed and brides and grooms are singing to their own hymn sheet now, or not, as the case may be. Whilst some of the traditional wedding etiquette can, and should, be ignored, there’s an even bigger chunk of rules that should be introduced, pronto…
Don’t: Wear White Unless you want to, of course. There is absolutely no obligation to wear white on your big day. Why do women feel they have to wear white? Tradition. Celebrities have avoided white for years: Elizabeth Taylor wore green for her wedding to Eddie Fisher (and yellow for her wedding to Richard Burton); Jenna Dewan Tatum, Jessica Biel and Anne Hathaway all opted for pink.
Do: Shelfie The Selfie
Don’t: Do Meat And Two Veg
First up, and arguably, the most important of
Sure, everyone likes a roast dinner, but a
A-List, it’s good enough
the rules is, of course, tech related. Love Island
wedding roast? It’s unreliable at best. Tradition
for us. Disclaimer: If you’re
stars Olivia Buckland and Alex Bowen put an
may dictate turkey and ham but who wants
reading this as a wedding
all-out ban on phones at their September
to be traditional anyway? Why not mix it up
guest, the don’t wear white
nuptials, and they had the right idea. Whilst
with food trucks parked outside that guests can
rule still stands, even if
you probably can’t ask your guests to box off
avail of and bring back to their tables? Or a
you’re sure the bride is
their phones for the full day and night, you
themed buffet which focuses on your heritage.
wearing lime green. Don’t
can politely ask that they refrain from sharing
Real bride Holly Tempan got married last year
be that guest.
images of the big day, especially before you.
and opted for a Jamaican buffet as opposed
Wedding photographer Sarah Brice says, “So
to a sit-down meal. She had the DJ switch the
many brides are disappointed as an unflattering
tunes to a reggae mix whilst dinner was being
picture is put up of them before they get a
served and served rum punch. She says,
chance to share their own pictures. The whole
“The guests lapped it up. My family loved
point of having a photographer on board is that
it because it was a taste of childhood,
we capture the most beautiful imagery. Put
of the food our granny would
your phone down, we’ve got this, we promise.”
cook,
and
my
husband’s
family loved it too. It created such a lovely, relaxed experience, different service.”
64 I IWD Feature I Weddings
to
very silver
If it’s good enough for the
Do: Minus Plus Ones No, we’re not talking about maths, we’re
Do: Dump The Dance
talking about guest lists, which are often
Is the thought of a first dance giving
Sure,
more complicated. You should be surrounded
you cold feet? You may sense a
lovely to leave from
by your nearest and dearest on your big day,
theme here but if you’re not feeling
your wedding for three
your favourite people in the world. Often your
the foxtrot, set it free. First dances
weeks in the Bahamas
budget dictates that you can’t have everyone
are often uncomfortable for everyone
like in the movies, but
you would like present for the full day. The
involved. If you don’t like having all
sometimes that’s just
simple answer? Cut plus ones, and be ruthless.
eyes on you (as many people don’t),
not practical. A wedding
If it’s a choice between your sister’s new
it will be glaringly obvious that you’re
can be a massive financial
boyfriend (whom she met four weeks ago) and
not having fun. You’ll spend the
strain
your work wife, we know who we’d be picking.
weeks leading up to your wedding
honeymoon is often just as
Don’t feel obliged to invite anyone, be ruthless.
anxious about having to (literally)
expensive. There is no rule
Real bride Clodagh O’Connor told us, “I could
have the spotlight on you, and
that says a honeymoon
only afford 50 at my wedding and have lots of
you’ll be waiting all day to get
has to be taken within a
cousins that I’m super close with. It was either
it over and done with. Why
certain period of time,
cut plus ones or cut the cousins. Obviously,
bother? You should enjoy
you’ve got the rest of
the plus ones were dumped. Everyone had a
every second of your big
your lives together. That
ball, no awkward introductions, no sitting in the
day and if that means
said, a few days with
corner minding your partner because they don’t
getting rid of the
no-one else present will
know anyone.”
first dance, go
be welcomed with open
for it.
arms after the chaos
Do: Pick A Seat, Not A Side
Do: Take A Minimoon it
and
would
the
be
dream
of extended family. Pack an
You’ve probably heard the saying, ‘Pick a seat,
Don’t: get superstitious
overnight bag, hop in the car, and take off on
not a side’, and wondered what it even means.
It’s bad luck for the groom to see the bride
your first adventure as Mr and Mrs, whether
Tradition (there it is again) dictates that guests
in her wedding dress, right? Wrong. Don’t get
it’s the Wild Atlantic Way or West Cork, quality
sit on the bride or groom’s side at the ceremony,
caught up in silly superstitions. Your big day is
time is key.
according to who invited them. Encourage your
about two people, you and your hubby-to-
guests to pick a seat, not a side. You don’t
be. If you want to have a few minutes
want the ceremony to look unbalanced, and
with him before the madness of the
everyone will be family by the time the groom
ceremony, then go for it. It’s easy to
kisses the bride anyway.
get overwhelmed in front of a room full of people, even if they are your
Don’t: Toe The Line
nearest and dearest.
If you want your father to walk you up the aisle, great. If you want your father and your
Why not ask your photographer to
mother to walk you up the aisle, great. If
take a first-look picture before the
you want to walk up the aisle on your own
ceremony? And whilst you’re at it,
… you get the picture. Just because tradition
you might as well get the bulk of
dictates your father should give you away
the bridal party pictures taken, leaving
doesn’t mean you have to go down that route.
you more time to hit the dancefloor and enjoy
If it doesn’t sit right, for whatever reason, do
your day.
what makes you feel comfortable. If Meghan Markle can break royal protocol and flounce down the aisle at St George’s Chapel like the independent lady she is, so can you.
Weddings I IWD Feature I 65
Design Dining
G ifts Made W it h Love ^
Add a daringly stylish essence to dining room design with the audacious Anastasia dining chair. She surpasses
Vase
Two
Golden
Tea For
Geo Vase Biba £50 - House of Fraser
Tea Kettle, Mackenzie-
Childs €175 and Teacup, Soho Home both at The Wedding Shop €33.50
Framed Get
Light Feel the
the traditional elegance of a fully upholstered dining chair with the modern allure created by the luxurious curves and bold lines KOKET is famous
Can
for. www.bykoket.com
In The
Bramo Glass Vase Watering Cans are a series of floor and table transparent vases with two branch ramifications which allow the preparation of flower compositions with different species and, also, the use of them as watering cans. Bramo was designed by Alessandro Loschiavo for Aliantedizioni. €360 - CROWDYHOUSE
Velvet Green
Ware
White Marble Look Frame 5x7 €14.99 - Littlewoods Ireland
Stone
Feel is an exclusive lamp covered with silver leaf, the shade is silk and the base is polished stainless steel. Bobadolobo.com
66 I IWD Feature I Wedding Gifts
Dark Green Velvet Armchair Argos Home 16 Piece Grey Ribbed Stoneware Dinner €28 - Argos
€179.99 - HomeSense
weddingshop.ie
J10459 - TWS 2018 campaign - Love is all you need - PRODUCT AD 1 - 210x297mm.indd 1
04/09/2018 10:01:43
Ends
G ifts Made W it h Love ^
Book
Pineapple bookends, House of
Hackney at The Wedding Shop
Light Nest Let there be
€201.50
Make a
Accent Swedish
Palm chandelier £220 Biba £220 House of Fraser
Argos Home Novara Nest of 2 Oak Veneer Tables,
Mirror
Malmo Accent Chair
€149.99 Argos
€348 - Littlewoods Ireland
Melted
Ever Chair Four
Classic
Zinc: 4 Seater Sofa €899 - DFS
Sideboard Georgian
This exceptional mirror offers a tribute to the historical city of “Angra do Heroismo” in Azores, Portugal. The seductive and elegant mirror, its outstanding in its shape and curved design. The
The Emporium chair is designed in a classic form,
polished brass create a superb accent providing a
with distinctive design elements and a unique Boca
glamorous design.
do Lobo touch. Drawing inspiration from the surrealist
www.bocadolobo.com
68 I IWD Feature I Wedding Gifts
movement, cast in a unique shape with intricate Grey Georgian Sideboard €34.99 HomeSense
details, this exclusive chair radiates a sense of fun, yet maintaining its sophisticated character. www.bocadolobo.com
Step House 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
Irish Organic &
G ifts Made W it h Love ^
Herringbone Cotton Throw A staple for any bedroom, our signature Herringbone throw is knitted from the softest 100% organic cotton. Perfect to snuggle with a hot cup of cocoa, our herringbone throw can
Mirror
add a touch of elegance and design to your living room.
Colour
Mirror
€150 - Whiteandgreenhome.com
Water
Argos Home Heja
Natural Wood Mirror, €90 - Argos
Corvus Amethyst Vase
Scents
Description: Beautiful and vibrant, this vase is a gorgeous statement piece!
With abstract watercolour lines at the bottom fusing in to the pink base.
Make
£54 - BRIDGMAN
Lamp
Jewels
Metal
Maharaja
Black Metal Lamp
€29.99 - HomeSense
Marble Green
Diffuser, Jo Malone at The Wedding Shop €71.50
The Maharaja Jewelry case is a true homage to the Indian spice boxes from the Age of Discovery starred by Portuguese. www.bocadolobo.com
Power Primal
Fierce details packed with primal power, verve and bite wrap this reptilian console. Drawer fronts composed of various materials, finely refined by brass coiled snake hardware. byKoket.com
70 I IWD Feature I Wedding Gifts
Vita Round Green Coffee Table A Contemporary Modern Design with a twist, the Vita Marble Stone Coffee Table is a stunning mix of materials and colours. This set of marble nesting tables will have you living the sweet life. £395 - Vênoor Living
Irish Wedding Diary Magazine
couriered to your door Irish Wedding
DIARY
For just €30
we will courier four issues of the
Best Selling Irish Bridal Magazine
to your door before it hits the magazine shelves. Order online at www.irishweddingdiary.ie/magazine
Intimate, Special and Different
“One of Ireland’s top five sexiest hotels” UK Observer Ireland’s Top Food & Wine Destination The Twelve Hotel, Bearna Village, Galway, Ireland tel: +353 91 597000 E: sales@thetwelvehotel.ie
www.thetwelvehotel.ie
G ifts Made W it h Love ^
Velvet Blue
Light Eye
Argos Home Whitney
Velvet Armchair Blue, €249.99 Argos
The two tone metal ribbon of the Intuition dining table evokes the mysterious and divine feminine instinct. Carefree and unexpected swirls are guided by emotions and desires. The two-tone metal base is topped with a perfect glass circle top. Without this, there is nothing.
Marl pom pom throw Black Metal Lamp €29.99 HomeSense
byKoket.com
€30 Next
Mixer Silver
Side
On the
Table in wood, with a twisted column ending on tripod feet. Delicately carved and covered entirely with
Frame
silver leaf colored in lapis. www.bocadolobo
In The
Smeg Stand Mixer - Silver €479.99 Littlewoods Ireland Witloft, Apron at The Wedding Shop €161
Seat Love
The velvet 2 seater sofa utilises a soft and welcoming aesthetic and features
72 I IWD Feature I Wedding Gifts
deep cushions and simple, elegant timber feet with a subtle taper. £1199 Company: Vênoor Living
You Dream, You Plan, then one day, you do Castle Arch Hotel- your perfect Wedding venue All inclusive packages start from â‚Ź2995 for 100 people
Call us now to make an appointment to meet with one of our wedding experts To enquire call 046 9431516 or email us on weddings@castlearchhotel.com
www.castlearchhotel.com
Mirror Elegant
G ifts Made W it h Love ^
Kettle
Pots
Green
Copper
Argos Home 5 pice Full Famed for our elegant and beautiful
Copper Pan Set,
style of glass use, our designers
€175 Argos
used their world-renowned talent and gorgeous glass to produce this blinding splendor. www.bocadolobo.eom
Back Sit
Japan
Breville Strata Green Jug Kettle €69.99 Littlewoods Ireland
Tea from
Bobbled Throw, €20 Penneys (Ireland)
Modern minimalist Japanese side handle teapot of Nankei, Yokkaichi. Real pottery from natural Banko tone. €79.90
Teapot Table Golden
Siver
Armchair, Made.com at The Wedding Shop €401.50
Bed Sofa
The Lemprica side table mirror brings together the whirlwind decade of the 1920’s with rich
Carpetright, Apollo Sofa Bed, Grey. £399 Carpetright
74 I IWD Feature I Wedding Gifts
angular shapes and multi-colored Gold teapot €12.99 HomeSense
glass from the Art Deco period. byKoket.com
Wonderful Weddings at the Ardboyne Hotel, Navan Celebrate your wedding in style at our award winning venue Take a walk through our perfect manicured gardens for the perfect wedding picture. Packages start at â‚Ź38.95 per person and all inclusive wedding packages from â‚Ź6995 To enquire call us on 046 9023119 or email us on weddings@ardboynehotel.com
www.ardboynehotel.com
G ifts Made W it h Love ^
Flutes Rose Gold
Light Cluster
Desk Love
Calm Cluster Ceiling Pendant €110 Littlewoods Ireland
Skin
Sheep
Off White Sheepskin Rug €249.99 HomeSense
Desk, Hedgeroe Home at The Wedding Shop €565 Rose gold prosecco flutes (set of 4)
Mirror €26 Next
Gold
Light Gold
Sculptured and shimmering tones of
hammered and textured metal with a hint of hard edge surround a perfectly cut convex mirror. www.bykoket.com
Corner French
Dorsey Suspension Lamp New Design at DelightFUL
Velvet Chaise
French Connection Zinc Exclusive Corner Group €1,599 DFS Co. Plc
76 I IWD Feature I Wedding Gifts
Como Chaise Long is totally made in cotton velvet, is a tribute to natural beauty. at Maison Velentia
Gifts Guests Love to Give We asked the experts in The Wedding Shop for some gifts ideas for the modern bride-to-be’s gift registry. All gifts are available at The Wedding Shop www.weddingshop.ie
Delsey, Cabin trolley case €213
A Minimoon with a Mr & Mrs Smith voucher is nicely accompanied with
Culinary Concepts, Tulip Chair €631.50
some new luggage.
A statement piece to brighten up your home. Larger gifts allow guests to group gift and contribute an amount that’s within
Robert Radio, Digital Radio €207
everyone’s budget .
A timeless and classic gift that never goes out of date.
Smeg, 50’s Retro espresso machine €322
Fujifilm, Instant camera €155.50
Something to capture all those special moments together.
Upgrade those everyday essentials and add a
Christofle, Mood Cutlery set €1,253.50
touch of chic to your kitchen.
A little luxury that you may not treat yourself to.
They also gave us some top tips for your list •
Your gift list is completely
•
Utilise the showroom and your
•
Choosing your gifts is the best
bespoke to you, so have some
personal advisor. Need to know
part of ‘wedmin’ – a totally free
fun and make it your own. You
what dinnerware service you
shopping trip! Take the time
can add anything from fine
can wash in a dishwasher or
to understand what you both
china dinnerware to state of
what thread count you need
want, from upgrading your
the art audio sound systems,
to keep warm on those chilly
everyday essentials to once in
monthly subscriptions and a
autumn mornings… your advisor
a lifetime experiences… you can
whole host of experiences – we
has the expert knowledge!
have it all!
can cater for every taste.
Wedding Gifts I IWD Feature I 77
Boudoir Photography The Perfect Gift for You and Your Partner
Secret Boudoir, the only exclusive Boudoir Photography Studio, is under new management and Andrea Hayes spoke with the new owner / photographer Waneska Valois and Karla Portalanza, a recent bride and client of Secret Boudoir. Waneska Valois is a Brazilian photographer who has been living in Ireland for the last 10 years. Waneska has over eight year’s experience in photography and four of them have been as a full-time Boudoir Photographer. What made you decide to acquire the
Why did you decide to become a Boudoir
as a silly girl not a woman, but in my photos, I
Secret Boudoir Photography brand?
Photographer?
saw that my big easy smile is my way of being
I had always followed Secret Boudoir from a
As a teenager who suffered from anorexia,
a sexy woman.
distance and always admired Edel’s (previous
I know first-hand how women can be hard
owner) work empowering over 3000 women
on
all over Ireland and the UK and also her
Photography, I realised the power the photo
I can say that almost 50% of my business
professionalism towards the business. When
experience has over women. It gives women a
comes from brides. I love registering this
I found out that Secret Boudoir was closing
chance to take a fresh and empowering look at
amazing moment in women’s lives. Usually
down. I felt women in Ireland didn’t deserve
themselves and realise we are all different and
the brides are a bit nervous, the pressure of
to lose such an incredible service which is so
we are all beautiful in our own little ways.
organising the wedding and everything else
themselves.
When
I
found
Boudoir
important for women’s self-esteem, and, on the
Do you photograph many brides?
adds a bit of nervousness to it. All of them tell
plus side, it was a great investment. I am loving
Have you ever done a Boudoir Shoot?
me that the experience actually gave them a bit
every minute of it and all the feedback I am
Yes! I wanted to live the experience, so I hired
of time to relax and have a day just for them
getting from the Secret Boudoir clientele has
another photographer and I thoroughly enjoyed
and about them which makes the experience
shown me that I made the right decision.
it. My photos are beautiful. I always saw myself
even more special and enjoyable.
78 I IWD Profile I Boudoir Photography
Boudoir Photography Studio - Temple Bar - www.boudoir.ie 086 1083668
Andrea Hayes also spoke to Karla Portalanza who recently had a boudoir photo session before her wedding on 15th July 2018
When did you get married?
Where you nervous on the day?
Would you recommend it to other brides?
I got married on the 15th July at the Clanard
NERVOUS!? I was terrified! As a mother of
I would absolutely recommend this to other
Court Hotel in Athy in an intimate ceremony
five children I have many insecurities about
brides. I had been with my fiancée for a long
surrounded by our five wonderful children. The
my body. But from the moment the girls at the
time and we have five children together. But
ceremony was led by Antoinette Coleman, our
studio greeted me, they made me feel like a
the night before our wedding, when he saw
celebrant, who made our day nothing short of
supermodel. They made me feel so comfortable
the photos, it filled him with a new kind of
magical.
and made my experience unforgettable. Their
excitement all over again and at just the right
professionalism had no limits.
time. It was an indescribable feeling for both
Why did you want to get a Boudoir
of us!
Photography shoot?
What did you think of the photos?
A friend of mine recently showed me her
I couldn’t believe I could ever look so hot! The
Karla’s husband David, commented on
Boudoir Photography shoot and I thought
photographer knew exactly what angles to take
the photos.
they were absolutely fab. She had no specific
the photos at, making sure every photo was
I was completely shocked because I never
reason for getting them done but I thought
taken with elegance and class. I felt incredibly
expected it. Karla looked absolutely stunning
the idea of it was incredibly self motivating and
at ease throughout the entire session and left
and as I looked through the photos, they made
empowering for a woman who was just about
feeling sexier than ever.
me remember that I really am the luckiest man
to get married.
alive. It was the perfect gift.
Boudoir Photography I IWD Profile I 79
Ireland’s Only Boudoir Photography Studio Temple Bar • www.boudoir.ie • 086 1083668
Boudoir Photography the perfect gift for your groom and for yourself.
Packages start from €150. Packages include Hair Styling, Make Up, false eyelashes, printed photos or albums. We provide outfits - all female team - city centre location which is perfect to make it a day out as you will be Make up and Hair ready, while also feeling amazing and glam.
Award Winning Bridal Designer
E
del Tuite, award-winning Irish bridal and wedding dress designer, is well known for creating unique, expertly crafted gowns that truly capture the beauty and spirit of all bridesto-be, helping them to create their dream wedding gown to treasure forever.
The Design Experience Creating the dress of your dreams is a rewarding experience with Edel. From the moment you book your appointment, to the day you collect your gown, you will receive a warm, friendly welcome in a relaxed environment with the personal dedication and care of Edel herself. During your first meeting, Edel will ask you about your design ideas and style that you wish to create. With years of experience designing wedding
gowns,
Edel
instinctively
knows
exactly what style will look and feel fantastic on you to suit your personality and style Once you have found the right style Edel will discuss fabrics, neck lines, back features, appliqué
embellishments,
accessories
etc,
as interesting design elements, hand-crafted embroidered details and luxurious fabrics are all part of Edel’s signature style.
Your budget It is important to ensure you have a budget in mind. Dresses vary in price depending on the choice of the fabric and style you want. Edel will always try to find ways of creating your dream dress at a price you can afford.
Finishing touches As the perfectionist that Edel is, when it comes to the finishing touches, she will be with you for all your fittings, making minor adjustments and alterations until the dress is perfect on you. Seeing the vision of your ideal wedding dress Edel has a wide range of bridal wear to try on at
well as all types of budgets.
her bridal studio in Drogheda, just 25 minutes from Dublin Airport and one hour from Belfast.
Edel has been attracting brides from all over
With her new 2019 Bridal collection now
Ireland to her bridal boutique for over 18 years
available in store, we highly recommend paying
with an ever-growing popularity as clients
her a visit and all our Irish Wedding Diary
praise her for her honesty and professionalism
brides-to-be will get an EXCLUSIVE 15% off
that leaves any bride-to-be knowing that their
ANY gown from her extensive range. Dresses
dream wedding dress will come to life under
start from as little as €1,200 and are exquisitely
Edel’s watchful eye and attention to detail.
become a reality is like watching your dreams coming true. Viewing is strictly by appointment only T: +353(0)41 9872951 or book online www.edeltuitebridaldesign.com/appointments/ For more information on Edel and to view her full Bridal collections please visit www.edeltuitedesign.com or follow us on social media
tailored to flatter all body shapes and sizes as @edeltuitedesign
Edel Tuite I IWD Profile I 81
Winter Wonderland By Claudia Gocoul
Irish Wedding Diary’s Guide to a nailing your winter wedding.
Forget a white Christmas, we’re dreaming of a white wedding. No matter how much you love the summer months, the real romance begins when the clocks go back for winter. Cosy evenings curled up in front of the fire, pumpkin spiced lattés and hearty meals for two, what’s not to love? If you’re thinking of getting married in winter, we’re fully on board. Not only are October and November two of the cheapest months to tie the knot, they are also two of the quietest, meaning your wedding won’t feel like one of many on a hotel carousel. Of course, a winter wedding needs a little more prior preparation, but what wedding doesn’t?
82 I IWD Feature I Winter Weddings
Save The Date You’ve settled on winter, what next? A Christmas celebration? New Year’s? Our advice would be to avoid both. Not only are they the two most expensive days of the year to get married, you’re also putting your guests in an awkward position. As much as she may love you, your best pal wants to enjoy her turkey and ham dinner, not be at your every whim as your bridesmaid on the 25th. Sharon Griffin, Founder and Creative Director of one of Ireland’s leading event companies, Frog Prince
time so he can work out the lighting situation
what you want, and don’t be afraid to layer up.
for your big day ahead of time. Want to get
If you’ve got your heart set on a slinky lace
that infamous sparkler shot? Sharon says,
dress but don’t want to give up on your outdoor
“Sparklers for the bridal party are a winner.
photos, invest in a faux fur stole or even a
However, that long sparkler tunnel shot takes
caridgan that you can slip off for shots. We’re
a lot of organising so you’ll have to commit to
also not against popping a pair of leggings on
it. Gathering 100+ excited, high energy guests
under your dress. Freezing your bouquet off
together can be challenging. Then they all need
will put you in bad form, and no photographer
to light the sparklers at the same time and get
wants to spend hours photoshopping blue lips.
in position, that’s before you have the weather to contend with. I’d stick to the bridal party for
Pretty Prep
that sparker shot.”
Our skin hates winter, simple. Cold winds, wet evenings and central heating can wreak
Weddings says, “My preference would be for a late autumn, early winter wedding as I think the weather is a little milder and brighter. The lull time between Christmas and New Year can be a brilliant time to get married too, as friends and family are home for Christmas.”
Why not splash out on embroidered blankets for your guest to wrap up warm throughout the day?
That said, the allure of killing two birds with one stone is a big draw. Alert friends from far away as soon as you set the date to give them a chance to save and build a visit home into their festive season.
The lull time between Christmas and New Year can be a brilliant time to get married Point And Shoot Whilst crisp winter mornings and the whisper of snow make for a good Instagram shot in theory, it’s often far from the reality. Realistically, rain could dampen your dreams of outdoor pictures and whilst your photographer will do anything he or she can to create exactly what you want, flexibility is key – as is lightning. With winter comes dark mornings and early evenings. If you’ve got your heart set on a Pinterest worthy sunset shoot, alert your photographer ahead of
and copious amounts of water will be your best friends. On the big day be sure to pack something reliable like Elizabeth Arden’s 8. Get one of your bridesmaids to pop a tube into her don’t want your first kiss as a married woman
And on that note, be sure to give extra notice. be driving home for Christmas, many won’t.
your pre-wedding beauty routine. Moisturiser
bag to combat any dryness or chapped lips. You
Be Our Guest Whilst many of your nearest and dearest will
havoc on your skin. Be sure to factor this into
to be flaky…
Creature comforts Above all, you want your guests to be comfortable. Instead of investing in sugared almonds and traditional wedding favours, why not splash out on embroidered blankets for your guest to wrap up warm throughout the day? Buy them cheap in Ikea or Tiger and
Pop a Pair of Leggins on under your dress for the outdoor photos
customise according to your DIY skills. If you’re getting married in an alternative location such as a barn or similar, keep comfort in mind and
You Do You
rent heaters for the day. If you’re expecting
Just because you’re opting for a winter
cold, wet weather (which you should be, it’s
wedding, doesn’t mean you have to settle for
Ireland after all). Offer mulled wine or Baileys
faux furs, moss green florals and lashings of
hot chocolate as opposed to the traditional
festive red. Unless you want to, that is. The
welcome drink. Small gestures will mean all the
only rule for a winter wedding is that there are
world to guests who have travelled to celebrate
no rules. Sharon explains, “I’m not a big fan
your love.
of the traditional reds and tartans of Christmas when used to create a wedding palette. If that’s
Dress Code
your thing, embrace it but I feel it’s important
Are you imposing a dress code? Whilst the idea
to choose your style and colour palette based
of a black tie, full length and fabulous dress
on your wedding location, your venue style and
code is lovely, it’s a lot of pressure for guests
your own personal style. The biggest winter
who may already be spending a small fortune
wedding faux pas? If you want to create a
just to get to you. We’d suggest nixing the dress
winter white wedding wonderland, avoid cheap
code and channelling that theme into the venue
blue uplighters at all cost or your guests will all
instead. As for your own dress code? Wear
be doing their best Papa Smurf impressions.”
Winter Weddings I IWD Feature I 83
Ballymac Bridal Photoshoot in Ballmascanlon House Hotel Photography by Dermot Byrne
Set in 130 acres of majestic parkland 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 close to 70 years. The fact that the children and even grandchildren of couples who got married here also choose Ballymascanlon House Hotel for
Ballmascanlon House Hotel
Hair: Sandra Maher
Carlingford Road, Dundalk, County Louth, Ireland Telephone - +353 (0)42 9358200 Email - info@ballymascanlon.com
Make up by The Makeup Lady
their own weddings speaks volumes.
Photography by Dermot Byrne
This unique venue will impress the most discerning
Bray, Co. Wicklow Web: www.dermotbyrnephoto.ie Phone: +353 (0)1 282 9560
couple; from the arrival up the secluded, leafy driveway to the magnificent house faรงade & stunning interiors, this is the setting that romance was made for.
84 I IWD Bridal I Ballymascanlon House
Phone 087-1253813
Web: www.makeupbydeborah.ie Tel: +353-85-707 9350
Dress by Roisin Cross Silks Deansgrange Business Park, Kill Lane, Deansgrange, Co. Dublin Tel: +353 (0)1 2846282 Web: www.silks.ie
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Dress by Roisin Cross Silks Deansgrange Business Park, Kill Lane, Deansgrange, Co. Dublin Tel: +353 (0)1 2846282 Web: www.silks.ie
86 I IWD Bridal I Ballymascanlon House
Dress by Roisin Cross Silks Deansgrange Business Park, Kill Lane, Deansgrange, Co. Dublin Tel: +353 (0)1 2846282 Web: www.silks.ie
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Dress by Roisin Cross Silks Deansgrange Business Park, Kill Lane, Deansgrange, Co. Dublin Tel: +353 (0)1 2846282 Web: www.silks.ie
88 I IWD Bridal I Ballymascanlon House
Dress by Roisin Cross Silks Deansgrange Business Park, Kill Lane, Deansgrange, Co. Dublin Tel: +353 (0)1 2846282 Web: www.silks.ie
Ballymascanlon House I IWD Bridal I 89
Dress by Roisin Cross Silks Deansgrange Business Park, Kill Lane, Deansgrange, Co. Dublin Tel: +353 (0)1 2846282 Web: www.silks.ie
90 I IWD Bridal I Ballymascanlon House
Dress by Roisin Cross Silks Deansgrange Business Park, Kill Lane, Deansgrange, Co. Dublin Tel: +353 (0)1 2846282 Web: www.silks.ie
Ballymascanlon House I IWD Bridal I 91
Dress by First Impressions Bridal Wear Bakers Corner, Dun Laoghaire, Co Dublin W. www.impressionbridal.com T: (01) 230 0961 E: firstimpressionsdublin@gmail.com
92 I IWD Bridal I Ballymascanlon House
Dress by Fiona Todhunter Bridals Unit 4, Greenhills Retail Park, Greenhills Rd, Tallaght, Dublin 24 Telephone: +353 (0)1 452 6854 Email: info@fionatodhunter.com Web: fionatodhunter.com
Dress by First Impressions Bridal Wear Bakers Corner, Dun Laoghaire, Co Dublin W. www.impressionbridal.com T: (01) 230 0961 E: firstimpressionsdublin@gmail.com
Formal Wear by McKenna Man Dundalk - Drogheda – Navan Web: mckennaman.ie
Ballymascanlon House I IWD Bridal I 93
Dress by First Impressions Bridal Wear Bakers Corner, Dun Laoghaire, Co Dublin W. www.impressionbridal.com T: (01) 230 0961 E: firstimpressionsdublin@gmail.com
94 I IWD Bridal I Ballymascanlon House
Dress by First Impressions Bridal Wear Bakers Corner, Dun Laoghaire, Co Dublin W. www.impressionbridal.com T: (01) 230 0961 E: firstimpressionsdublin@gmail.com
Ballymascanlon House I IWD Bridal I 95
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
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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
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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
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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
Formal Wear by McKenna Man Dundalk - Drogheda – Navan Web: mckennaman.ie
Ballymascanlon House I IWD Bridal I 99
Formal Wear by McKenna Man Dundalk +353 (0)42 933 4368 - Drogheda +353 (0)41 983 1364 - Navan +353 (0)46 902 8968 Email: info@mckennaman.ie Web: mckennaman.ie
100 I IWD Bridal I Ballymascanlon House
Packages from
€60 per perso
n
WEDDING SHOWCASE SUNDAY 18TH NOV 2018 & JAN 6TH 2019 FROM 1PM - 4PM 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
Something Quirky
Make your wedding portrait a bit more fun and interactive by getting an artist to live paint at your wedding reception.
Make some green wedding favours that guests can bring home and plant as a permanent reminder of your big day
Get Hoppily Married with personalised Craft Beer for your special occasion, with both names, date and location. www.weddingbeers.i.e
Get some personalised Rock Candy with the Bride & Grooms names running through it
What about some big heart shaped balloons for you guests to release. 102 I IWD Feature I Weddings
Add a little South American touch to your wedding with an Alpaca alpacasofireland.c om
Children’s Entertainers who’ll mind the children and teach them to a dance to perform on the night. Ollie & Stephens Spectactular Events
Top of the World Made from durable polymer clays, these are lovely keepsakes of your wedding day. www.caketoppers.ie
Why have a standard photobooth when you can have a hand-painted London Taxi from www.funkycam.ie
Add a little zest to the wedding day food with an authentic Texan Barbecue from www.brisketboss.ie
You’ll have plenty of time on your hands with a watch ring to help get you to the church on time and in style.
Add something different on the morning of the wedding with a gift box from www.r omanceengineers.ie
Weddings I IWD Feature I 103
An everlasting love story...
TEL: 089 485 4270
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
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11/11/2016 13:59
WEDDINGTRAVEL
Love In Jamica
HONEYMOONS & WEDDINGS ABROAD Compiled by Alex Joyce
Nestled within a secluded sandy cove, Jamaica Inn is a truly special Caribbean resort just east of Ocho Rios. Combining unrivalled privacy with heartfelt personalised service, Jamaica Inn is a firm favourite among the sophisticated jet set with Marilyn Monroe and Arthur Miller choosing to honeymoon at the iconic resort in 1957. Spread over eightacres and boasting a 700-foot private white sand beach, considered to be one of the best in the Caribbean, Jamaica Inn is a timelessly elegant resort and a perfect hidden spot for honeymooners. Additionally, among the swaying palm trees and on the soft sands of resort’s private beach, Jamaica Inn is an idyllic scene for a destination wedding. Against the backdrop of turquoise waters, couples are invited to start their lives together in a paradisaical setting surrounded by their loved ones. www.jamaicainn.com
Arabian Nights
A jewel of the Emirates, Sharjah is GHM’s newest destination for a luxury escape beyond compare. Meaning ‘The Home’, the Al Bait hotel in Sharjah is nestled within the fulcrum of the UAE’s vibrant landscape, with convenient access to all the wonders this glittering Emirate has to offer. This enchanting luxury hotel in Sharjah combines the best of modern comforts and amenities with echoes of the old world. This ambitious restoration and conversion project of these historic manor houses was undertaken with the vision of embodying the cultural renaissance that has swept the Emirate. During your stay, you’ll encounter first-class gastronomy with traditional and international cuisine, indulgent spas to rejuvenate and more, all in an atmosphere that will take your breath away.
New Radisson
Situated on Phu Quoc island’s picturesque northwest coast, Vietnam’s first Radisson Blu Resort heralds a new era for the Radisson Hotel Group. On Phu Quoc, renowned for its natural splendour, placid waters, iconic fish sauce, black pepper and prominent place in the history of the Nguyen Dynasty, Radisson Blu will cut the ribbon on 514 rooms, suites and villas, an all-day restaurant, three bars, an executive lounge, immense tropical lagoon swimming pool and kid’s club. “Phu Quoc is fast developing a reputation as Vietnam’s answer to Thailand’s Phuket and the beach experience here is one of a kind,” said Radisson Blu Resort Phu Quoc’s General Manager Peter Feran. “This is a tropical island setting that comes right out of a storybook and is all the more spectacular every day at dusk when the sun goes down over the Gulf of Thailand.”
106 I IWD Travel I Honeymoons
5* Luxury Caribbean Honeymoons by Classic Resort the Award winning Longhaul Tour Operator Specialist in Ireland for over 30 years
7 nights All Inclusive
€1699
from pp including taxes
Mexico: 5* Secrets Silversands Riviera Cancun
On the Riviera Maya coastline sits the lively 5* Secrets Silversands Riviera Cancun. Designed for young souls with modern, sleek décor, Secrets Silversands boasts the largest suites in the Riviera Maya. Gourmet dining, top-shelf spirits and nightlife begin with eight gourmet restaurants, eight chic bars, and live entertainment in an open-air theatre and bar. Enjoy an array of activities such as yoga, volleyball and sushi making classes - experience Unlimited-Luxury ®.
Based on 2 sharing • Travel May/June • Flights, taxes, transfers and hotel accommodation included in a preferred Club Junion Suite, Pool View. Quote ref 74862
7 nights All Inclusive
€1675
Dominican Republic: 5* Secrets Royal Beach Punta Cana
from pp including taxes On the palm-studded, sugar white beach in Playa Bavaro, Secrets Royal Beach Punta
Cana offers adults a serene seaside getaway in paradise. Delight in limitless gourmet dining and top-shelf spirits, or spend a night out at nearby participating resorts with the Sip, Savour & See Dining Experience. Bask in the warm Caribbean sun, enjoy daily activities and entertainment - all inclusive with Unlimited-Luxury ®.
Based on 2 sharing • Travel May/June• Flights, taxes, transfers and hotel accommodation included in a Junior Suite, Tropical View. Quote ref 74862
Upgrade to a Preferred Club Junior Suite Tropical view fr €239pppw The Unlimited-Luxury experience includes: • Limitless access to gourmet à la carte dining options without reservations required • Unlimited international and domestic top-shelf spirits, natural juices and soft drinks • 24-hour room and concierge services • Pool and beach wait service • Daily refreshed mini-bar with soft drinks, juice, bottled water and beer • Daily maid service • Endless daytime activities and live nightly entertainment • Theme parties, oceanfront bars and entertainment venues • No wristbands required • All taxes and gratuities • Enjoy free Wi-Fi with Unlimited Connectivity. The mobile app also allows guests to view the schedules of all events, activities and restaurants at the resort and much more!* Unlimited-Luxury for all-adult romance. Complimentary Anniversary Nights: Stay a minimum of 7 nights with your qualifying wedding or
Complimentary SECRETS NEWLYWED & ANNIVERSARY PACKAGE: Welcome letter, Fresh fruit, Bottle of sparkling wine, Special turndown service, Breakfast in bed with Mimosas (reservation must be made in advance with concierge), 15% discount on all spa treatments. Complimentary within 3 months of the wedding.
Call Classic Resorts now to book your Honeymoon with our Expert Travel Consultants on
Tel: 01 8745000 or Email: info@classicresorts.ie Web: www.classicresorts.ie 24-25 Lower Liffey Street, Dublin 1. 100% Irish Owned and fully bonded.
WEDDINGTRAVEL HONEYMOONS & WEDDINGS ABROAD
Tropical Island Wedding
Compiled by Alex Joyce
In the Med
Bodrum, in the southwest Mediterranean coast of Turkey, Let the amber sunsets and island breezes lure you into the open air at Niyama Private Islands, one of the most mesmerising resorts in Maldives.
embodies a traditional and Mediterranean way of life. The charming, coastal town is home to a medieval castle, dazzling beaches and numerous art galleries.
Each villa has a secluded deck that offers pure privacy to luxuriate in al fresco rain showers,
Located in a sheltered cove with deep blue waters and pine-
moonlit dips, or an intimate afternoon basking in the sun. This resort will make for a dream
covered hills, five-star Il Riccio Beach House, one of the hotels
tropical island wedding.
within Mytha Hotel Anthology, welcomes guests with first-
Bodu beru drums beat a searing rhythm in perfect harmony to a magical wedding in Maldives where flames in the night burn like your passion. Kiss beneath a sky clad in stars. Exchanges vows at sea beneath pure white sails. Unite souls in a ceremony set within a palatial villa and awaken the next morning to endless ocean views. From private island bliss to a modern ‘cathedral’ draped by the design of the reef, find a backdrop that moves you like nowhere else in the world. www.niyama.com
An Authentic Taste of Vietnam
The Anam’s new ‘A Day in the Life’ experience embed themselves into the warp of a Vietnamese family from the neighbouring countryside. Anchored by the preparation of a delectable feast at the Vietnamese family’s home, the day-long experience kicks off with fresh Banh Mi baguettes for breakfast at the host family’s favorite local bakery. The two families then visit the markets the Vietnamese family shops at daily as well as a herb garden and noodle-making house. The Vietnamese family then welcomes guests into their home in the countryside for an authentic cooking class. During the class the Vietnamese family shares recipes handed down the generations, teaching guests how to cook each dish traditionally without toning down spice or flavour just as they would when cooking for themselves. The hosts give their guests a recipe book to keep along with new memories before they head back to The Anam. For reservations and more information: www.theanam.com
108 I IWD Travel I Honeymoons
class hospitality and its own private beachfront. Immersed in lush greenery, the exclusive retreat features ten beautifully designed guestrooms and spacious grounds. Nestled in the picturesque Aegean bay, every aspect of the hotel is inspired by the sea. Light, white spaces offer a blank canvas for a memorable stay, with just ten rooms and suites all with views of the bay, the mood is more home than hotel.
Irish Wedding Diary Magazine Digital Edition Your favourite wedding magazine is now available for downloading to your phone and tablet so you can now carry the magazine with you everywhere. You will also be able to view it on your laptop and desktop computers
le Singue Iss
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Available On IOS & Android Phones
Live l in Video ks an photo d Galle ries
Technology I IWD Feature I 109
The Real Wedding of
Sophie & Nathan In Malta With Sarah Young Wedding Planners on 9th August 2018
N
athan and I attended the same high school in Cardiff but he was a school year older than I was. We started dating soon after I left school for college – we’ve been together for over 10 years now and I suppose some would say we are childhood sweethearts.
We were in a small room in the castle on our own. I was looking out of the window at the view and Nathan said, “I have a present for you”. Not realising, I replied, “Oooh, what?” He took the box out from the inside of his jacket and opened it; it was a beautiful pear-drop
Nathan proposed whilst we were on a weekend
our group wanted to go and see it too but I
diamond ring! I just gasped, put my hands over
away in Edinburgh to watch Scotland versus
did not want to miss a sightseeing opportunity.
my mouth, and tears flooded my face. I was
Wales in the Six Nations. We were with his
We paid the admission fee to look around the
literally speechless!. He asked, “Will you marry
brother, Liam, and his wife, Becky, and friends
castle, he rushed around and I thought it was
me?”, and all I could do was nod.
in February 2017. Nathan took me sightseeing
due to the rain and wind. However, I now know
to Edinburgh Castle on the second day of our
it was because he wanted to find an empty
After being together for so long, I knew I
visit. I did find it strange that no one else from
room in the castle to “pop the question”.
wanted to get married in 2018, because that
110 I IWD Travel I Real Wedding Aborad
area. Sarah gave us many options and we chose a garden villa in Naxxar. We were so busy with work, holidays, and just life in general that we did not have the chance to view the venue prior was the year we would have been together for
to the wedding … a bit of a gamble. However,
10 years. It was an easy decision for us to get
Sarah, Michelle, and the rest of the team put
married abroad because we both love the sun
our minds at ease because it was evident of
and having numerous holidays a year. That’s
how organised and professional they were, and
when we started searching for destinations
that we were in safe hands.
and established that getting married in Malta was also legal in the UK. That was a big factor
We anticipated around 40/50 guests attending
for us because we did not want to just have a
because we appreciated how expensive it is
blessing abroad only to return home essentially
to attend a wedding abroad. After the “Save
not being husband and wife.
the Dates” were sent, we had more people confirming their attendance and the final
I was literally speechless, he asked, “Will you marry me?”, and all I could do was nod.
number was 86!
The day itself was amazing; the venue, flowers, cake, food, music and people The wedding was booked and guests were confirmed, the next step was to start shopping for my dress. I thought I was going to feel like a princess, but I did not find “the one” in shop after shop. I felt so disheartened; it was nothing like I had read in magazines. Then, I found a small bridal shop in Pontyclun, South Wales, called Bridal Box. I gave them an idea of
We contacted numerous wedding planners, but
what style dress I liked, they picked a beautiful
many took so long to respond to emails, unlike
dress for me to try on, and it was THE ONE!
Sarah Young, the Director of Sarah Young Wedding Planner, who promptly replied to our
Nathan wanted a tuxedo because he liked the
email. We gave Sarah an overview of what we
idea of a formal suit, regardless of the heat.
were looking for, such as a civil ceremony in a
I am so glad he did because the groomsmen
venue, which had both an indoor and outdoor
looked so smart.
Real Wedding Aborad I IWD Feature I 111
fave), a personalised flute, mug and an infinity tiffany bracelet – it was so thoughtful of him. I bought him a new watch to wear on the day with a space/universe background, which has special meaning to us. I was an emotional wreck all morning, until we Prior to the big day, we met with Sarah,
arrived at the venue and the emotions turned
Michelle, and the team to see the venue for the
to excitement. We had the ceremony outside;
first time, and it was stunning. It was incredible
it was stunning. We had our food inside in a
that Sarah knew from our emails exactly what
marquee-style room, which was also where
we wanted. Obviously, Sarah listened carefully
the evening disco was. The day itself was
to our requirements.
amazing; the venue, flowers, cake, food, music and people! Sarah and the team were on hand
I chose four bridesmaids, two of whom were
Sarah and the team were on hand all day and night to ensure that everything went smoothly, and that it did!
all day and night to ensure that everything
It was difficult to relax in the days running up to
We had the best day and we will remember it
the wedding. On the night before the wedding,
forever…
my best friends from school and were both maids of honour (Hayley and Abby), my third was my cousin (Catherine), and my fourth was Nathan’s (and now my) sister-in-law (Becky). Nathan chose his two brothers to be his best men (Liam and Dean) and his best friend from school to be his usher (Daniel).
we stayed in different rooms in accordance with tradition. It still felt so surreal. I was very nervous and emotional; I just could not believe the day was finally here. On the morning, I opened my wedding gift from Nathan. Inside a box was a framed picture of us, chocolate (my
112 I IWD Travel I Real Wedding Aborad
went smoothly, and that it did! I had so many compliments from my guests and could not thank Sarah, Michelle, and the team enough. I would highly recommend Malta for a wedding but not without Sarah and her professional team.
★★
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
Tropical Island
N
othing quite says “I love you” like a holiday for two on a tropical island. There you are, surrounded by nothing but palm trees and a turquoise sea, basking in the infinity pool with your lover while waiters serve up champagne and seafood.
Open your eyes! It’s not a dream – you’re at
and coconut trees. Think fantasy weddings,
the Banyan Tree resort on Koh Samui, one of
romantic getaways, unbridled luxury.
the idyllic dreamy islands in the gorgeous Gulf
The hotel does have a few things to do apart
of Thailand. Banyan Tree is set in a secluded
from lazing and loving. It has three outstanding
bay far from tourist-mania. In fact, the 38-acre
restaurants, each with startling ocean vistas
lush property has its own exclusive beach and
and mouth-watering menus of tasty Thai and
bay, guaranteeing guests a sense of serenity
international fare. The resort has an on-site nature trail with bird-watching; a resident speedboat for picnicking and swimming in the Deep Blue; a kids’ club; a yoga center; and a highly acclaimed spa offering Thai massage and holistic hydrotherapy treatment. And now Banyan Tree Samui has unveiled a choice of romantic packages, either to complement your Big Day or as a honeymoon from heaven. With its own Romance Concierge on property,
and privacy. Likewise, each of the 88 villas
Banyan Tree Samui is an ideal wedding venue.
at Banyan Tree is tucked away from view,
Its Infinity Wedding Package is tailored to take
and nestled into a cascading hillside of flora
care of you from the moment you get off the
114 I IWD Travel I Honeymoons
plane at Koh Samui’s boutique airport and step into the limousine. If you’re thinking more of a honeymoon, you will find it hard to beat the blissful whitesand beach at Banyan Tree. Their honeymoon package includes a 90-minute spa treatment for two, while the Sense of Romance promotion offers complimentary dining options including a private breakfast prepared just for you by the chef on the veranda next to your infinity pool. Villas at Banyan Tree Samui, each with private infinity pool, start from €400 euros per night. www.banyantree.com
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South Africa Why do people love South Africa as a honeymoon destination?
South Africa is the perfect destination to suit all types of honeymooners, thanks to the abundant amount of activities it has to offer. It is the perfect destination for an unforgettable honeymoon and for those looking for more than just a beach getaway. Where else can you go from
resorts while only spending a third
wine tasting in the vineyards of
of what you would pay elsewhere.
Franschhoek, to shark diving off the
The value of the Rand against the
coast of Hermanus, and then gazing
euro is very good at the moment so
upon a pride of lions on a Big Five
you can be guaranteed more bang
Safari in Kruger National Park.
for your buck.
The added bonus of a South
We spoke to Hayes & Jarvis, the
African honeymoon is incredible
experts in long haul travel, to tell
value for money. Dine in top quality
us more about a South African
restaurants and stay in five star
Honeymoon.
For more information or to book your big trip to South Africa, get in touch with the travel specialists at Hayes & Jarvis on 01-4331052 or drop into their store at 18-19 Duke St, Dublin 2
116 I IWD Travel I South African Honeymoon
Tell us the top five things to see or do there! •
Safari – South Africa has some of the best
What sort of couple would a honeymoon in South Africa suit?
game reserves in the world •
Majestic Table Mountain
South Africa is the perfect destination for a couple
•
The lively Victoria and Alfred Waterfront
who are looking for more than just a lazy beach
•
Visit the Cape of Good Hope
holiday. It would suit an adventurous couple that
•
Drive the Garden Route – one of the world’s
love to explore, do activities and visit different
best self-drives
locations on one holiday.
Is there a perfect time to go?
Where to visit
South Africa is a great year-round destination, but
Regularly voted the best city in the world, Cape
we particularly love visiting Cape Town between
Town provides its visitors with stunning views
October and April, while if you’re planning on
inland towards Table Mountain and across the
visiting Kruger National Park, Pretoria and Durban
coastline heading out to sea. The beaches are
further to the north, we suggest June through to
pristine and you may spot the odd whale, seal or
October.
penguin. Often a second point of call after Cape Town, the
What sort of budget would you need for a South African honeymoon? €3000 per person minimum.
What’s the most romantic part of a South African honeymoon?
Cape Wineland towns of vibrant Stellenbosch and
Things to see and do Cape Town • Table mountain by cable car • Robben Island and the District Six Museum • Boulders Beach Cape Winelands • Delicious locally produced wines • Numerous vinyards to explore Eastern Cape • Home to a diverse pool of wildlife, including the Big Five • Includes some of the best beaches in South Africa Garden Route • One of the world’s best self-drives • Beautiful coastlines On the more adventurous side… • Helicopter Tour of the Cape • Paragliding off Lions head • Shark Cage Diving • Whale Watching • Bungee Jumping, Segway Tours, Rafting in Tsitsikamma National Park
upmarket Franschhoek are both just a short drive from the capital, making them easy to combine.
Tips
These are ideal havens for a peaceful and
• Cape Town: Book Robben Island and Table Mountain
relaxing rest. Surrounded by mountain peaks and
in advance, it will save you queueing for the ticket and
numerous green vineyards, their tree-lined streets offer a slower pace to life.
then queueing again in the lines
• Safari: Bring a warm jacket as early in the morning
The Garden Route, often classed as one of the best
and late in the evening when the sun goes down it
Here are some suggestions of romantic things to
scenic drives in the world, stretches approximately
gets very cool
do on a South African honeymoon.
186 miles along the coast from Mossel Bay to Port
• A sunset cruise out into Table Bay with views
Elizabeth. The majority of people collect their car
order to be able to see what you need to see and not
of the stunning Table Mountain and Robben
from Cape Town and drive all the way to Port
feel rushed – whale watching or shark diving takes up
Island, while you sip on a glass of bubbly.
Elizabeth, around 500 miles, and take eight days
one full afternoon so if you only stay the night before
Continue your evening with a meal at one of
to complete, stopping at places like Hermanus,
the amazing restaurants on offer at the V&A
famous for whale watching.
• Eastern Cape is great for Safaris as it’s malaria-free
Waterfront.
South Africa has one major attraction that no
• Garden Route very easy to do but can be a bit hilly so
• Hermanus: You should definitely stay two nights in
then you have to leave in the afternoon after the trip
• Sunset cable car up Table Mountain – Watch the
holiday is fully complete without – safari. South
sunset at Table Mountain and experience some
Africa offers multiple destinations for game
• There is so much to see and do in South Africa, you
amazing views, there is nothing quite like it.
viewing, though the most well-known is Kruger
may struggle to fit it all in! Mix a city break to Cape
• Experience dinner under the stars on top of
National Park. There is no bad time to go on safari
Town with a tour of the vast wine estates in the
a stunning treehouse at Lion Sands Game
here and whether you choose a self-drive or go
surrounding Cape Winelands, a self-drive along the
Reserve.
with an experienced guide you’re in for a treat.
Garden Route or a safari in Kruger National Park.
make sure to hire a good car
South African Honeymoon I IWD Travel I 117
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.
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. Call 01 881
118 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
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Thailan
Burj Khalifa , Dubai
ridge, Gate B Golden
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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 119
Sign up to TRAILFINDERS
Honeymoon Wishlist and we’ll contribute €100 to your honeymoon.
When only award-winning travel will do 5 boutique CASA DE LA FLORA THAILAND
5 COCO BODU HITHI MALDIVES
5 + THE OBEROI MAURITIUS
7 NIGHTS FROM €1,749
7 NIGHTS FROM €2,299
7 NIGHTS FROM €2,499
SAVING OVER €1,150 Includes flights, private transfers, daily breakfast & an early booking discount
SAVING OVER €1,060 Includes flights, speedboat transfers, breakfast & a honeymoon booking discount
SAVING OVER €1,500 Includes flights, private transfers, breakfast & a honeymoon booking discount
• Beautiful infinity pool • Luxurious spa • Fitness centre • Library • Beachfront restaurant serving international food & a relaxing pool bar • Complimentary mini bar
• Stunning island retreat • All villas with private pools • Wealth of dining options • Beautiful overwater Coco Spa
• Idyllic north west coast location • 20 acres of lush sub-tropical gardens • Exceptional service • Holistic spa • Excellent dining
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.
03217 Irish Wedding Diary Winter Ad_ 210x297mm.indd 1
05/09/2018 09:54
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
Start Your Happy Ever After In Cyprus Smudging footprints in the sand with your wedding train and having your veil carried by the sea breeze make beach weddings the stuff of daydreams. Cyprus is fast becoming the destination of choice for overseas nuptials. Cyprus is an island for everyone and the Paphos region is a firm holiday favourite. Paphos town itself has a traditional look and feel, with cobbled streets and shaded pavement cafĂŠs, while a modern harbour is packed with buzzing bars and restaurants giving it an old meets new resort feel. Paphos boasts 12 Blue Flag beaches, an array of harbour-front seafood restaurants and Tavernas.
122 I IWD Travel I Weddings Abroad
Cyprus is fast becoming the destination of choice for overseas nuptials
W
edding ceremonies in Cyprus can take place in town halls sandwiched between bursts of pink bougainvillea, by the hotel pool or in beautiful beachside hotel gardens that overlook the sea. The island of Cyprus has been a love nest for
said to have presented the island to Cleopatra
centuries; according to legend, the island is the
as a token of his love and affection.
birthplace of the Goddess of Love, Aphrodite. It’s thought the immortal temptress enjoyed
Today this beautiful island still spells romance.
secret forest rendezvous here with a string of
With an 800-kilometre-long coastline, sandy
ancient gods, like Ares and Adonis. Fast forward
beaches and pine forests straight from a fairy
a bit, and the Roman general, Mark Antony, is
tale, it’s easy to see why couples choose Cyprus
for outings à deux, with spots like Limassol specialising in lantern-lit tables, light jazz and sea views.
The island is the birthplace of the Goddess of Love, Aphrodite and, legend has it, was given to Cleopatra as a token of love and affection
as their wedding destination of choice. On the days the couple are not tying the knot, they can
The island of Cyprus has been a love nest for centuries
spend time exploring the Cypriot countryside and the 700-square kilometre forest filled with native Cypriot trees – perfect for a romantic picnic or afternoon stroll. Nights are also made
For summer 2019, TUI have added Cyprus to its list of wedding and holiday destinations flying direct from Dublin Airport. There is a wide range of hotels and resorts on offer where couples can say “I Do”.
Weddings Abroad I IWD Travel I 123
Just a stone’s throw from the Mediterranean
For something with more of a young family
and after the wedding, there’s lot to keep adult
sea, situated in a hill-top position offering
focus, the Holiday Village Aliathon is the
and young guests entertained. For starters,
panoramic views, the new TUI Sensatori
perfect choice. Why not combine your wedding
there’s the huge lagoon-style pool, as well as
Resort Aphrodite Hills pairs an award-winning
day and family holiday in one? Weddings take
sports and activities on tap.
spa with a great choice of restaurants and a
place in the pretty landscaped gardens, or at
championship golf-course. Ceremonies take
the hotel’s traditional chapel. Couples can also
offer excellent value with some hotels offering
place here beside the beach. The resort also features a sea-view cocktail lounge which the happy couple can use for reception drinks. For a more low-key wedding reception, the Kefalos Beach Village complex is the perfect location. This beachfront complex looks more like a mini village than a hotel with sugarcube apartments surrounded by landscaped gardens,
TUI’s destination wedding packages in Cyprus
Nights are also made for outings à deux with Limassol specialising in lantern-lit tables, light jazz and sea views
wedding packages from as little as €779. There are a number of different packages on offer to suit the super chic bride looking for the utmost luxury to the more budget conscious bride looking for something small and intimate or those with young families who want a wedding day in a family-friendly resort. To find out more, visit
with a large pool in the heart of it all. Couples have the choice of saying ‘I do’ in a traditional
enjoy a number of wedding-specific perks like
www.tuiholidays.ie or call the
chapel or under a beachfront marquee and
a candlelit dinner for two and breakfast in bed
TUI wedding team on 1850 929 141.
wedding guests can enjoy al fresco dining.
the morning after their wedding. As for before
124 I IWD Travel I Weddings Abroad
SAY ‘I DO’ IN CYPRUS – NEW FOR SUMMER 2019
Picturesque beaches, harbour-side nightspots and ancient temples. Wedding & honeymoon packages available. To book Call 1850 929 141, visit tuiholidays.ie or visit your local TUI Store.
FLY DIR EC T F RO M DUBL IN
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.
The Real Wedding of
Karina & Tom At The Phoenicia Malta on 5th June 2017
T
om and I met at our mutual friends’ engagement party 11 years ago; Tom was friends with the groom-to-be and I was friends with the bride-to-be. Unfortunately, the night was coming to an end before we actually got talking but Tom wasn’t letting me go without getting my phone number. I got a text the next day asking if I was free for a drink! Despite his enthusiasm, almost a month passed before our first date. On a Monday night in November, we went to “Christmas on Ice” in the RDS; we both learned that we were equally bad at ice-skating that evening and decided we needed to have that drink afterwards.
Photography by Joseph Muscat of M&J Photo Studio www.mj-photostudio.com
126 I IWD Feature I Real Wedding Abroad
Fast forward eight years and Tom was down
hotel and grounds. They described a fairytale
Rathnew. Once the choice of dress has been
on one knee in Central Park holding my
wedding and helped us envisage the hotel
narrowed down, my Dad was called in for the
grandmother’s engagement ring while I was
once the renovations were complete. We were
final seal of approval! Tanya and her staff were
sitting on a park bench eating a red velvet
hooked! After almost an hour, we returned the
fantastic throughout. Tanya altered the dress
cupcake! Of course, there was no hesitation
hard hats and left the hotel. We ventured into
perfectly and when departure time came, she
and the words, “yes, absolutely yes” were out
Valletta to visit a church which Chrystelle had
even folded the dress into my hand luggage
of my mouth without a second thought.
mentioned; it was just beautiful. We emailed
for me! Tom’s suit came from Protocol for
Chrystelle a few days later to set the date.
Men on Dawson Street who also kitted out the groomsmen and both Dads.
So then the fun started; we had a wedding to plan. I had always liked the idea of a destination wedding and when I mentioned it to Tom, he was completely on board. We had been to Malta a few years previously and really loved the island so decided we would start researching. Almost instantly we knew this was where we were going to get married. We sent some emails, arranged to visit some venues and off we went. The first day of our trip, we
The lead-up the wedding was pretty stress
Fast forward eight years and Tom was down on one knee in Central Park holding my grandmother’s engagement ring.
free.
Chrystelle
guided
us
through
the
paperwork for the civil marriage registry and the Archdiocese of Malta, and arranged everything from the photographer, to hair and make-up, music, the flowers, the menu and the cake. Everything was going smoothly until the Maltese government scheduled a general
viewed six venues but they were missing that
election for two days before our wedding!
spark. On the morning of our second day, we
As we learned, in Malta, the celebrations
met Chrystelle and Philip at The Phoenicia
following an election block the streets! The
and everything changed. At that time, The
The hunt for the dress took a bit longer. A
Phoenicia was closed for renovations so Philip
number of Saturdays were spent with my
handed me and Tom a hard hat each and off
Mam and sisters in bridal boutiques before
we went with Chrystelle and Philip around the
I found my dress in O’Brien’s Bridal Couture,
Prime Minister would be sworn in just hours before our wedding, next door to our church, and huge crowds were expected. I think it’s fair to say there was a weekend of panic
Real Wedding Abroad I IWD Feature I 127
when the news broke but Chrystelle was on
cake, red velvet and vanilla, and sat down for
hand and working hard so we need not have
dinner. It was only then that we fully took in
worried.
our surroundings: the décor of the Rotunda in the hotel gardens, the beautiful centre pieces on the tables, the vintage guest-book table,
Almost instantly, we knew Malta was where we were going to get married
the lanterns and chalk board. The attention
On the morning of 5th June, while I had
The attention to detail by Chrystelle and all the staff at The Phoenicia was just breath-taking
breakfast on the hotel terrace with my parents and friends, Tom went on a run with his friends. After breakfast, the bridal party had our hair and make-up done in our room. Our beautiful bouquets arrived and, at 3.45pm, we left The Phoenicia to walk to the church with
to detail by Chrystelle and all the staff at The Phoenicia was just breath-taking. Chrystelle had delivered the fairytale.
Chrystelle leading the way. The roads were closed following the election and the hotel
The food was superb; we opted for a semi-
manager had already walked ahead with our
buffet to give our guests three choices for
guests and the flower arrangements as the
main course. And just as dessert was served,
florist could not get to the church. The crowds
there was an unexpected rain shower! It
leaving Valletta clapped as we walked past in
rained for three minutes, literally, but in those
our dresses. With the sound of the Celtic Harp
three minutes, Tom and I ran for shelter under
playing in the church, my Dad walked me up
the canopy over the outdoor bar and watched
We spent a few more days in Malta before
the aisle.
our guests run inside. One of my bridesmaids
heading to Italy for our mini-moon in Milan,
ran to us with a plate of dessert and two
Verona and Venice. We returned to The
spoons and simply said that it was too good
Phoenicia this year for our first wedding
to leave behind!
anniversary and spent a lovely evening catching up with Chrystelle while having a drink on the
The rain stopped, our guests came back to the Rotunda and Tom and I had our first dance with the lights of the “love sign” reflecting in the wet tiles of the dance floor and fireworks overhead. Following a few hours of dancing, we propped up Fr Charles Carabott performed a beautiful
the
ceremony in the Church of St Catherine of
our guests until the small
Italy, after which our guests returned to The
hours. We had so much
Phoenicia for drinks and canapés while Joseph
fun and our guests raved
Muscat of M&J Photo Studio took stunning
about the wedding and The
photographs of us for our wedding album.
Phoenicia when we met
Tom and I returned to The Phoenicia, cut the
again the following night.
128 I IWD Feature I Real Wedding Abroad
residents’
bar
with
terrace overlooking the Rotunda.
Love at first Sight
A Day to Remember in Malta from €8,500 Complete package for 30 people
The Phoenicia has been planning Malta’s exclusive weddings for seven decades, now a proud member of The Leading Hotels of the world, it’s an establishment loved and celebrated by Maltese society through the decades. Stunning views, lavish gardens and majestic venues are what makes The Phoenicia an unforgettable venue for couples to celebrate their memorable day. Package Includes: Wedding Executive to assist in planning your Perfect Day Preparation of all Documentation Registration Fees in Malta Red Carpet Welcome Ceremony is held in a secluded Gazebo on the Historic Place of Arms Celtic Harp playing during the Ceremony Infused Water Sparkling Wine & Canapés Beautiful Indoor or Outdoor Private Venue Delicious 3 Course Menu Tea, Coffee & Treats Wine, Water & Sparkling Wine Wedding Cake Personalised Table Plan & Menu Cards Dressed Seating & Fresh Flower Centrepieces Makeup for the Bride Flowers for the Couple, Best Man & Bridesmaid Wedding DJ Service Professional Photographer Decoration Package
www.phoeniciamalta.com
The Mall Floriana – FRN1478 Malta
Tel: (+356) 21 225 241 weddings@phoeniciamalta.com www.phoeniciamalta.com
2019
Bridal
Collection
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Aire Barcelona
www.airebarcelona.com
2019
Bridal
Collection
Luna Novias
www.lunanovias.com
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2019
Bridal
Collection
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Stella York stellayork.com
2019
Bridal
Collection
Essense of Australia essensedesigns.com
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Bridal
Collection
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Eddy K
eddyk.com
2019
Bridal
Collection
Eddy K
eddyk.com
2019 Bridal Collection I IWD Feature I 135
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Collection
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Kenneth Winston
www.kennethwinston.com
2019
Bridal
Collection
Sincerity
www.sinceritybridal.com
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2019
Bridal
Collection
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Victoria Kay
victoriakay.co.uk
2019
Bridal
Collection
Victoria Kay
victoriakay.co.uk
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Bridal
Collection
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Paloma Blanca palomablanca.com
2019
Bridal
Collection
Paloma Blanca palomablanca.com
2019 Bridal Collection I IWD Feature I 141
2019
Bridal
Collection
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Mikaella
www.mikaellabridal.com
2019
Bridal
Collection
Mikaella
www.mikaellabridal.com
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Bridal
Collection
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Justin Alexander
www.JustinAlexander.com
2019
Bridal
Collection
Justin Alexander
www.JustinAlexander.com
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2019
Bridal
Collection
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Tamem Michael
www.tamemmichael.com
2019
Bridal
Collection
Tamem Michael
www.tamemmichael.com
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2019
Bridal
Collection
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Eternity Bridal
www.eternitybridal.co.uk
2019
Bridal
Collection
Eternity Bridal
www.eternitybridal.co.uk
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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.
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
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
150 I IWD I Leading Wedding Venues
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
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
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
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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Save The Date for these Wedding Fairs Here is a list of wedding fairs, showcases and open days at some of Ireland’s best-loved wedding venues. Pop along to one of these shows to see exactly what they have to offer for your wedding day; you’ll be warmly welcomed and pleasantly surprised.
Wednesday 3rd October
Thursday 18th October
Thursday 22nd November
The Station House Hotel,
Clanard Court Hotel
Clanard Court
From 6-9pm
From 5-8pm
From 5-8pm
Kilmessan, Co. Meath,
Athy, Co. Kildare
Athy, Co. Kildare
www.stationhousehotel.ie
www.clanardcourt.ie
www.clanardcourt.ie
Sunday 7th October
Sunday 21st October
Wednesday 5th December
The Kingsley Hotel
Newgrange Hotel
The Station House Hotel,
From 2-6pm
from 2-5pm
From 6-9pm
Victoria Cross, Cork,
Navan, Co Meath
Kilmessan, Co. Meath,
www.thekingsley.ie
www.newgrangehotel.ie
www.stationhousehotel.ie
Sunday 7th October
Sunday 2nd & 3rd November
Sunday 9th December
Hamlet Court Hotel
Castle Arch Hotel
Finnstown
From 2-6pm
from 2-5pm
From 5pm-8pm
Johnstownbridge, Enfield, Co. Meath,
Trim , Co Meath
Newcastle Rd, Finnstown, Lucan, Co. Dublin.
thehamlet.ie
www. castlearchhotel.com
www.finnstowncastlehotel.com
Sunday 7th October
Wednesday 7th November
Thursday 12th December
Four Seasons Hotel Carlingford
The Station House Hotel,
Bellinter House
From 6-9pm
From 5-9pm
Kilmessan, Co. Meath,
Navan, Co. Meath, Ireland
www.stationhousehotel.ie
www.bellinterhouse.com
www.4seasonshotelcarlingford.ie
Thursday 8th November
Sunday 6th January
Sunday 14th October
Finnstown Castle
Riverside Park Hotel
BrookLodge & Macreddin Village
From 5pm-8pm
From 2 – 5pm.
Newcastle Rd, Finnstown, Lucan, Co. Dublin.
The Promenade, Killagoley, Enniscorthy, Co.
www.finnstowncastlehotel.com
Wexford. www.riversideparkhotel.com
From 1-5pm Carlingford, Ireland
From 2-6pm Co. Wicklow www.brooklodge.com
Wedding Fairs I IWD Feature I 153
Venues
Leading Wedding
Finnstown Castle Finnstown Castle Hotel has a long and proud tradition as one of Dublin’s exclusive Wedding locations. Set amongst 35 acres of matured parkland and manicured gardens, yet only a short distance from Dublin city centre truly does set us apart. From booking this unique venue to arriving on your wedding day, be safe in the knowledge that you are being look after by one of Ireland’s most passionate and seasoned teams. Choose from our ‘Manor’ or ‘Castle’ Wedding Packages, designed to inspire your imagination and taste buds. 2018 marks the launch of our new “Camelot” package, a tailored package to deliver discerning couples luxury and affordability. Why not contact us and book a private viewing! www.finnstowncastlehotel.com 01 6010700
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 Open Day on the 7th of October, 2018 with a live showcase from the wedding band The Stormers. 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.
Fota Island Resort Nestled at the heart of a tranquil island, the five star Fota Island Resort is an idyllic location for the wedding of your dreams. The naturally beautiful Fota Island Resort lies in a 780 acre estate which is included in the Inventory of Outstanding Landscapes in Ireland, offering a breath-taking backdrop for your treasured wedding album. The Wedding Team are passionate about making your dream wedding a reality and take great pride in creating memories you will always cherish. The elegantly designed Smith-Barry Suite can accommodate up to 300 guests. During the summer months enjoy an alfresco drinks reception on the private terrace. The Clubhouse at Fota Island Resort exudes a classic country feel and merges effortlessly into the surrounding landscape. Weddings at The Clubhouse can accommodate up to 120 guests. With its stunning setting, The Clubhouse is also a wonderful venue to host your rehearsal dinner or post wedding celebration. The dedicated Wedding Team would be delighted to assist you in creating your perfect day. For further information contact Tel: +353 (0)21 4883700 E: weddings@fotaisland.ie
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 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 weddings@thejohnstownestate.com www.thejohnstownestate.com
154 I IWD I Leading Wedding Venues
Venues
Leading Wedding
The Killaloe Hotel The Killaloe Hotel is a lakeside property like no other with it’s 32 luxury room each with individual lake or mountain views, our outdoor New York rooftop terrace makes an ideal pre dinner drinks or ceremony locations while the stunning harbour gardens with its flowing fountain and lake views makes for a breath-taking outdoor option. Our Executive chef will help you plan your menu, with each dish prepared using only the finest local and international ingredients, served to perfection and accompanied by wines from our enviable cellar. With all your friends around you, it would be a shame not to stay longer to enjoy champagne afternoon tea our elegant Library, Barbecue in our spectacular Fir pit in the Harbour Gardens or dinner in the Monk’s Table Restaurant or our newest dining experience which is “View” our panoramic fully enclosed rooftop terrace that boasts some of the most romantic views of Killaloe. Tel: 061-376 0000. Web: www.thekillaloe.ie. Email: sales@thekillaloe.ie
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 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
Lough Rynn Castle Estate & Gardens Lough Rynn is more than just a wedding venue, it is a lovingly restored 19th century castle home. This unique, luxurious, fairy-tale setting, with its secluded location, breath taking views and classic romanticism, is the perfect backdrop against which to begin your life together. The Walled Gardens at Lough Rynn truly are unmatched for photo opportunities; allow the concierge to chauffer you to the Gardens and around the Estate with your photographer to take some perfect pictures. Lough Rynn Castle delivers impeccable, unobtrusive service that is never compromised. Guests can relax under the careful attention of the staff and enjoy an exquisite selection of gourmet foods and wines. Can you imagine a more perfect day? The manicured Lawns provide a breath-taking setting for a Champagne or Drinks reception on a Summer’s day - and the Castle’s backdrop is equally spectacular for a Winter Wedding. To Sample the atmosphere please contact Tel: 071 9632700 email: enquiries@loughrynn.ie Lough Rynn Castle, Mohill, Co Leitrim
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Lough Rynn Castle Estate & Gardens MIDWEEK WEDDINGS
€68 INCLUSIVE OF:
ARRIVAL DRINKS RECEPTION FIVE COURSE MEAL HALF BOTTLE OF WINE PER PERSON EVENING BUFFET
LOUGH RYNN CASTLE
MOHILL, CO.LEITRIM T: 071 96 327 00 E: ENQUIRIES@LOUGHRYNN.IE
Venues
Leading Wedding
The Lucan Spa Hotel Picture a wedding venue of style, romance, elegance and beauty. The Lucan Spa Hotel has become one of Ireland’s most stunning Wedding Venues over the last few years since its recent redevelopment. The brand new Boyne Suite is a spectacular setting for the most perfect day, providing brides and grooms with a venue with that all important WOW factor. Picture your first dance under crystal chandeliers. Strolling together under private woodland. Sipping champagne over the balcony overlooking Lucan Golf Course. Or warming yourself by their beautiful Dublin Corbel Marble Fireplace. Saying “I do” outside within the romantic confines of the gorgeous woodland area. This Georgian Hotel is situated in the picturesque village of Lucan and within the grounds of The Old Sarsfield Estate. The location offers convenience and luxury, being only 15 minutes from Dublin Airport within grounds of a country setting. They take pride in the high quality of their menus and dishes and all their weddings are unique. The Lucan Spa Hotel wedding coordinators and chefs will sit with you and help you design your perfect package. Call: 01 628 0494 Email: reservations@lucanspahotel.ie Website: www.lucanspahotel.ie
Radisson Blu St Helen’s Hotel Set in luxurious surroundings and expansive four acres of garden, the 1750 stately mansion offers effortless elegance with a warm and welcoming atmosphere. From perfect pictures and amazing food to exclusive touches and an unrivalled location. The Radisson Blu St. Helen’s Hotel Dublin offers three amazing private dining suites to choose from, each one having its own unique style and character and catering for 20 – 240 guests. St. Helen’s Hotel has a number of elegant and unique settings for civil ceremonies, garden blessings or exchange your vows in a setting that is simply breath taking. St. Helen’s Wedding Consultant is available to offer advice and assist you with planning every detail of your wedding day, from reserving your date to co-ordinating all the finer details. Contact Sorcha on : 01 2186054, sorcha.mcgrath@radissonblu.com Also visit their website. www.radissonblu.ie/sthelenshotel-dublin and check out their Facebook page www. facebook.com/RadissonBluStHelensDublin
Rathsallagh Country House Imagine the Wedding of your dreams in your own 17th Century Country House with its romantic setting on 500 acres of rolling fields, thousands of mature trees and long winding avenue ensuring your complete privacy. Rathsallagh is more than a wedding venue, with its open log and turf fires, luxurious dining room, bed rooms and drawing rooms it is your very own private Country House for your special day. Rathsallagh is a member of the prestigious Blue Book and is regarded as the ultimate Country House wedding venue in Ireland. Less than 50 minutes from Dublin and in business for over 30 years Rathsallagh can cater for Weddings from 50 to 240 guests and with its walled gardens and Orangery Rathsallagh is ideal for civil ceremonies and blessings. Rathsallagh House, Dunlavin, Co. Wicklow. Tel: (045) 403 112. Web: www.rathsallagh.com. Email: info@rathsallagh.com
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
158 I IWD I Leading Wedding Venues
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
Venues
Leading Wedding
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
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
160 I IWD I Leading Wedding Venues
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 €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
Venues
Leading Wedding
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
The Westin The Banking Hall at The Westin Dublin- an historic wedding venue in the heart of Dublin city is standing tall and proud on College Green for the past 150 years. Your wedding day deserves a unique location and the iconic 19th century Banking Hall is the city’s leading destination wedding venue. The stunning façade and private entrance on College Street which overlooks Trinity College Dublin, sets the scene for a wonderful sense of arrival. Your family and friends can mingle beneath the lofty ceilings, while an excellent level of service from the Westin Associates, who anticipate the couple’s every need and a selection of delectable menus provide the combination for that day of lifetime for up to 200 guests. A signature building rich in tradition and history, the Banking Hall is the idyllic setting for any couple starting their own historic journey together. For more information on Weddings at the Westin Dublin, please visit www.thewestindublinweddings.com or speak with the Westin Wedding Team on (01)6451440
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162 I IWD I Leading Wedding Venues
lable& i a v A OS I n O droid An nes Pho
A Celebrity Celebrant by Conor Clear
Photography by Dan Coxon Photography
W
hen my friends, Kealan and Zoe, asked me to be a celebrant for their wedding in June 2017, neither they nor I had imagined the journey that I was about to go on. Their big day was an amazing one and the honour of being asked to perform such a role was a real gift to me; one which sent me in a new direction in life.
ceremony. And I especially love the moment when a couple realises that, with me as their celebrant, everything is possible. The skies really are the limits. Of course, it’s not just weddings that I love doing. My journey into celebrancy has included learning about baby naming ceremonies too,
And so, when the dust settled on the
ceremonies are just some of the rituals which
and again it’s a world of endless possibilities
celebrations, I started to weigh up the
prove very popular amongst couples.
when it comes to crafting the ceremony.
possibilities of getting into the field of wedding celebrancy. But where to start? Could I be a
I’ve also been exploring the world of literature
Everything is coming together now, including
Humanist? A spiritualist? Could I just get
and
which
the presentation skills I’ve developed from
ordained online? After much deliberation and
I can suggest to couples. Everything from
over 15 years in broadcasting between RTE,
discussion with friends, I decided that Civil
Shakespeare’s sonnets to Leonard Cohen lyrics
TV3, and now Virgin Media One and, of course,
celebrancy was for me and I looked to the Irish
- they add such beautiful personal touches to
hearing people’s love stories over four years
Institute of Celebrants for training. I haven’t
the ceremony. I recently recited Shakespear’s
presenting the Love Zone on Dublin’s Q102.
looked back.
Sonnet 116, such beautiful words:
It’s such a joyous thing to be involved in
discovering
potential
readings
Love is not love, Which alters when it alteration
Above all, it’s such a joyous thing to be involved
finds,
in. It warms the heart. Being part of somebody’s
Or bends with the remover to remove.
big day in such a way is an incredible feeling.
O no! it is an ever-fixed mark
Meeting couples when they’re loved up is just
That looks on tempests and is never shaken.
beautiful and it’s amazing to think, when you get a job as a celebrant, every day at work is a party.
I’ve spent the last number of months learning
But perhaps my favourite part of the job is
about the endless possibilities of putting a
meeting couples when they’re planning such
ceremony together with a loved-up couple.
an amazing occasion. I love to hear their love
Everything you need to know about Conor
I’ve been learning about rituals such as the
story; when and how they met; their first date;
is on his website: www.conorclear.com
ancient Celtic handfasting which has become
their first kiss; and yes, when the guy proves
You can email Conor on
very popular once again in Irish wedding
himself to be an old romantic, I love to hear
conorclear@gmail.com
ceremonies.
sand
about the proposal. All of this, I craft into their
And he has lots of wedding inspiration on
ceremonies, ring warming, and wine box
love story which becomes a lovely part of the
his Instagram page @conorclearcelebrant
Candle-lighting
rituals,
164 I IWD Feature I Wedding Celebrant
www.thomassunderland.ie
22 Castle Street Carlow • Phone: +353 (0) 59 9142278 • Email: info@thomassunderland.ie Thomas Sunderland Photography Ad Autumn 2016.indd 1
20/06/2016 14:35
The Real Wedding of
Margaret & Eoin At the Kilronan Castle Estate & Spa on 27th December 2017
Photography by: John Reynolds www.johnreynoldsphoto.com
166 I IWD Feature I Real Wedding
O
ur first experience of Kilronan Castle Estate & Spa was when we attended the wedding of friends of ours from Dublin in 2011. While we were very impressed with it then, we were not considering wedding venues at that stage, and initially Roscommon seemed an unlikely place for us to get married given its distance from Dublin. When we got engaged in 2015 we attended
What followed next was a two-and-
many wedding fairs as we were very fussy
a-half year journey of planning and organizing,
about venue choice! Then we came upon
albeit with some distance from Dublin - we
the Wedding Experience at Kilronan Castle
made many trips there and stayed on a number
- a wedding fair with a difference - a huge
of occasions with family and friends in the run-
difference. It was marvellous. It featured
up to our wedding. Everyone we brought to
a virtual wedding experience for a small
see it before our big day were impressed by
number of exclusive couples with canapĂŠs and
the friendliness of the staff and excellent food.
bubbly plus wedding day food and lots of rich samples; we came out stuffed! There was even a wedding band which we ended up hiring. Kilronan Castle stood out as somewhere special and was an easy decision given the attention and approach from the lady we engaged with at the Wedding Experience - Ciara Maxwell. So, we booked it for 27th December 2017.
We were continually looked after by Ciara who
Kilronan Castle stood out as somewhere special and was an easy decision
was never slow to respond to my emails and was always efficient. As the time approached and finalities were in place, I had zero stress in terms of Kilronan Castle’s management of our special occasion.
Real Wedding I IWD Feature I 167
Given the distance from our home in Dublin to
being conscious of this, especially for
Kilronan Castle, I stayed with my parents and
the time of year (December) and photo
five bridesmaids the night before the wedding
opportunities.
- with my now husband in nearby guest
groomsmen were also able to enjoy a
accommodation. The night before was lovely
drink in the bar before the big moment!
- we enjoyed some drinks, canapés and live
We got some nice pictures of this and I
music downstairs in the bar. The day itself was
really loved knowing that people were
very special and everything ran like clockwork.
nice and relaxed before I made my way
A huge amount of stress was eliminated by
down the aisle. Tom Farrell was our
both of us staying over the night before.
Spiritualist. He was faultless and didn’t
Guests,
husband
and
ramble on - he was also very efficient and helpful with readings and had a lovely calm demeanour in his delivery. Music was by Sinead Conway of Sligo with her
and can cater for all types of numbers. We
accomplice on the piano and a friend of mine
never covered the wedding chairs as there was
also played the flute; many guests commented
no need to - they suited our lovely red theme
on how good Sinead was. I had seven songs
anyway - they are velvet and classy enough in
during the ceremony, ranging from Christy
my opinion. The food was outstanding - fillet
Moore to The Beach Boys.
beef seems to be the signature dish of Kilronan Castle and we were not let down. Some of our
From the driveway up to it, the setting near the woods and lake and the variety of areas within the Castle for this special day, Kilronan Castle had everything we were looking for in a venue
connoisseur experts commented highly on it!
Photo opportunities around the Castle are
Huge praise for all the staff in Kilronan Castle,
immense. We went out to the lake nearby
especially our Wedding Coordinator, Ciara
and, despite the time of year, we got beautiful
Maxwell. From the driveway up to it, the setting
The service was impeccable - so professional and faultless. Many of our guests commented on both the food and the service in a hugely positive manner. Our band, ‘Deja Groove’, were brilliant and really interacted with the crowd and covered all the songs I requested.
pictures. John Reynolds, our photographer,
near the woods and lake, and the variety of
We got married in the Palm Court of the hotel,
was very thorough and professional and lovely
areas within the Castle for this special day,
it really was stunning with its stone walls and
to work with. The Castle was lit up with real
Kilronan Castle had everything we were looking
a lovely Christmas tree up front with lovely
Christmas trees around it and looked fabulous.
for in a venue. All around, I would rate the experience we had in Kilronan Castle at 10/10
lighting and candles. Our guests loved that, once they arrived to Kilronan Castle, they did
The Wedding Room itself has a serious Wow
and urge others to consider it for their special
not need to move on anywhere else. It’s worth
factor when you walk in. It’s a lovely big room
day.
168 I IWD Feature I Real Wedding
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
The Real Wedding of
Ursula & Kieran At Rathsallagh Country House on 29th July 2018
Photographer: Michelle O’Sullivan, MOS Photography. www.mosphotography.com
170 I IWD Feature I Real Wedding
exander dress in Bijou Bridal, Tramore, Co. Waterford. However, her mother-in-law wasn’t best pleased when the bride-to-be decided to cut off the train! Ursula was delighted when her friend, Caroline Quinn, proprietor of Dirty Fabu-
U
lous Vintage on Wicklow Street, designed and
rsula and Kieran live in Dublin with their three boys, Noah, Ethan, and Seth. They met at work way back in 2005 but didn’t get together properly until 2010. Kieran proposed to Ursula on a family picnic in April 2015 in Anne Valley, Co. Waterford. Ursula was so shocked, she made him ask a second time, and then happily accepted. Not ones to rush, the search for a venue didn’t
visualised their ceremony in the walled garden
commence until 2017. The date was set for July
among the fabulous flowers and apple trees.
made her birdcage veil and headpiece, along with styling her accessories for the day. Together with the dress, and the vintage-inspired hair and make–up, the whole look had an old Hollywood glamour feel. Not only do Dirty Fabulous have a wide range of vintage bridal, they also have exquisite accessories and headpieces.
2018 and the planning began. Catherine was the wedding consultant who met The couple’s main goal was to have a stress-
Ursula and Kieran at the viewing on the day,
free day, full of family, friends, fun, and laugh-
and they were struck by her warm welcome
ter. And, most importantly for Ursula, dancing!
and genuine hospitality. Catherine and all the
The ask was for a top class yet homely venue,
staff were utterly attentive and in control, giv-
where family and friends felt welcome and re-
ing the busy couple a sense of ease about plan-
laxed and the kids could run about freely, with
ning the day. Ursula just wanted to ‘rock up in
lots of prosecco, high-quality food, great music,
her dress and have a party’ and the beauty of
and one hell of a party!
Rathsallagh is that you could do just that, with minimal or no extra decoration or ‘personal
The Couple visited Rathsallagh House and were most taken by the walled garden and the beautiful grounds.
touches’ required. Yet, because Rathsallagh was available exclusively on the day, the cou-
On the big day, after a long blissful summer of
ple and family could take over the venue and
sunshine, theirs was the first day that the heav-
grounds, making it their own.
ens opened and it rained all morning. However, wedding consultant Gillian in Rathsallagh
With the venue decided, the vendors were se-
wasn’t deterred and really went out of her way
lected and Ursula began the hunt for a dress.
to make the couple’s dream of having an out-
Again the criteria were simple, and that was
door wedding come true. Due to the fact that
Having looked at a few outdoor venues, the
to be able to dance freely in the dress and be
Rathsallagh now has a stunning Granary Room
happy couple first visited Rathsallagh House
comfortable on the day. Ursula was delighted
for ceremonies, Gillian had both the walled gar-
and were most taken by the walled garden
that it was her mother-in-law who was with
den and the Granary set up, so they were able
and the beautiful grounds. They immediately
her when she eventually found her Justin Al-
Real Wedding I IWD Feature I 171
to decide at the very last minute. And, miracu-
five-hour journey from Donegal to join Ursula
lously, the clouds cleared for the afternoon and
and Kieran on the big day. The couple and their
they had their ceremony outside.
guests were blown away by the choir and it really set the tone for a great party.
Rev. Hugh Gormley was the solemniser and the ceremony was lovely, no formalities, intimate
“We loved every minute of our wedding day,
and personal with tears and laughter, while the
there were so many special moments, from get-
guests surrounded the couple as if they were
ting ready in Rathsallagh with both families and
part of the ceremony.
our own boys around us, to the drama of ‘Will it ever stop raining?’ to holding my mother’s hand
Another really special part of the day was the
as I walked down the aisle to ‘Oh Happy Day’.
Inishowen Gospel Choir. This happy couple first
Having our boys involved in the ceremony and witnessing our love and commitment, the really
Our guests are still raving about the fantastic rooms, the food, and the service at Rathsallagh House
relaxed and chilled vibes of the day, the laughter, the tears, the dancing and the craic – it was all wonderful! Our guests are still raving about the fantastic rooms, the food, and the service at Rathsallagh House. It was such a special day, only made
saw the Choir perform at the Glastonbury Fes-
possible by the vendors we chose, the O’Flynn
tival in 2009 and swore that, if they ever got
family and staff at Rathsallagh house and, most
married, they would ask the choir to sing. So,
importantly, the individual part that all of our
last September, they went back to the Glaston-
family and friends played in making our day
bury programme from that year and found their
so special and memorable, and the best party
name! Thankfully, the choir agreed to make the
ever!”
172 I IWD Feature I Real Wedding
Exclusively Yours on your Wedding Day
Lima Conlon Photography
One hour south of Dublin airport and Dublin City centre in West Wicklow on the Kildare border less than, 20 minutes from Naas. Rathsallagh is exclusively yours on your wedding day, with its 300 year old walled gardens and parklands, open log and turf fires, luxurious dining room, bed rooms and drawing rooms. Rathsallagh is your very own private luxury Country House venue for your special day.
Dunlavin, Co. Wicklow, Ireland. Tel +353 45 403112 Fax +353 45 403343
The Real Wedding of
Joanne & Stephen
At the Radisson Blu St. Helen’s Hotel, Stillorgan on 10th February 2018
Photography by Michael Nolan
174 I IWD Feature I Real Wedding
www.mikenphotography.com
S
tephen and I met in September 2008 in the ever-so-famous Copper Face Jacks! I fell for his London accent and cheesy chat-up lines, so we exchanged numbers over a few drinks at the bar. At the time, I was working as Cabin Crew for Aer Lingus and had to do many layovers in London. Stephen said he would like to meet up the next time I was over. I thought little of it until he called me a few days later and, as I was rostered for an overnight stay in London that week, we arranged a date.
On our first date, we had dinner in Kensington,
called Conor, and then decided to move back to
and that is how our dating continued for a
Dublin in August 2016.
couple months, until Stephen decided to come over to see my home and my way of life in
On Christmas Day 2016, Stephen gathered my
south Dublin. My life as Cabin Crew was hectic,
family in the living room and started to make
but we made it work and became an item on
a speech to my parents! Before I knew it, he
a trip to San Francisco. We commuted back
was down on one knee and proposed. I think
and forth to London for four years until I took
my Dad was more nervous than Stephen but
an opportunity to take some leave from work
it was a lovely moment for us all with Conor
and give London life a shot. This is where we
there as well.
stayed for the next four years. On 1st February
When it came to choosing a venue, the
2014, we welcomed our first child, a baby boy
Radisson Blu St. Helen’s Hotel, Stillorgan,
was always a hotel I had admired with its picturesque gardens, elegant décor and wellpreserved architecture, so I contacted Zuzana Hasler, Wedding Co-Ordinator at St Helen’s. We arranged to see the hotel in all its glory at their Winter Wedding Fair. Then we made it official and booked our wedding for 10th February 2018.
Before I knew it, he was down on one knee and proposed We had a few meetings during the year in the lead-up to the wedding. Sorcha McGrath was on hand with Zuzana as she was finishing up on maternity leave. Sorcha was more than up to speed with our arrangements and was a constant help with my endless Excel spreadsheets!
Real Wedding I IWD Feature I 175
Choosing my dress was not the easiest task.
everything was just magical. The room was
One thing I was very particular about was that
I had drawn a rough sketch of what I could
transformed and styled by Gotcha Covered who
we wanted everything to run on time and no
imagine myself in and it turned out to be
work alongside the Radisson Blu St. Helen’s
delays with the meal. The meat was perfectly
exactly what I went for.
Hotel, Stillorgan.
done and there were even seconds! I can’t thank all the staff at the Radisson Blu St.
I knew lace wasn’t for me, A line with a satin finish was my look, I wanted a simple dress, with some sparkle and let the accessories do the talking. I eventually found exactly what I was looking for in The White Room in Mullingar. The night before the wedding,
my
bridesmaid,
chief Sarah,
and I stayed in a lovely balcony suite
The Radisson Blu St. Helen’s Hotel, Stillorgan, was always a hotel I had admired with its picturesque gardens, elegant décor and well preserved architecture
Helen’s Hotel, Stillorgan, enough for everything they did for us, particularly Zuzana, Sorcha, Ashleigh, Anthony and Alfredo. Our son, Conor, was a concern for us on the day as he struggles with crowds and noise. But, with the help of the entire team, we were are able to relax and enjoy the day. We then spent a few days in a hotel in Co. Wicklow after the wedding but our real honeymoon is later in the year. We are going on
on the fourth floor of the Radisson Blu
Once our ceremony was over, we went straight
a family holiday with my parents to the Algarve,
St.
Hotel,
upstairs for a group photo and enjoyed our
Portugal.
Helen’s
woke
reception drinks at Le Panto bar. We really
up totally fresh for
loved the surrounded area of the hotel as it has
the day ahead. I had
beautiful décor and a sense of pure elegance.
Michelle
We were thrilled it was available for our guests
Stillorgan.
Stone
I
Regazzoliand
Katrina
to enjoy. We re-entered the Pembroke Suite
up
around 6pm where we had the most delicious
and hair duties, they
meal and partied into the early hours. I had
certainly
requested for candles to be placed throughout
Kelly
on
make kept
the
atmosphere calm while we got beautified. Sorcha was up to see me regularly to let me know how things were going and let me know that everything was OK. As we were having a humanist wedding, the ceremony was being held in the Pembroke Suite. It was a winter-themed wedding and
176 I IWD Feature I Real Wedding
the room, and the smell was just divine.
A VENUE FOR ALL SEASONS
Call: 01 218 6000 | Email: sorcha.mcgrath@radissonblu.com Radisson Blu St. Helen’s Hotel, Stillorgan Road, Blackrock, Co. Dublin Radisson Blu St. Helen’s Hotel, Dublin
@RadissonStHelen
ST HELEN’S HOTEL, DUBLIN
radissonblu.sthelens
The Real Wedding of
Adrienne & Jack At the Lucan Spa Hotel on 30th December 2017
J
ack and I met through work and started seeing each other a number of years later. Our daughter, Ă“rfhlaith, was born in December 2004 and in October 2006, we moved house. Life with a small child and new house was busy and consequently in May 2007, Jack planned a weekend break for the two of us in Badajoz, South West Spain. We were meeting up with Spanish friends of ours, or so I was led to believe!
178 I IWD Feature I Real Wedding
O
n our last night in Badajoz, we partied
Jack sat there looking at me, waiting for me
there never seemed to be time to actually
- of all places - in a fruit warehouse!
to say something, anything. But not one single
get married. However, in mid January 2017,
Back at our hotel in the very early
solitary syllable could I manage. I vaguely
we decided that this was going to be THE
hours of 27th May and just as I was about to
remember saying “yes”… after we returned
YEAR! We had, over the years, considered
sleep fitfully, Jack sat up and started a deep
home!!
the possibility of marrying abroad and we’d considered a number of different venue types,
and meaningful conversation. I figured that he’d either had just the one drink too many or
In October 2011, our second daughter, Saoirse,
but ultimately, we believed that a hotel venue
that delirium, courtesy of tiredness, had set in.
was born. Between ever-intensifying work,
at home, would best suit us.
I tried persuading him to sleep, for even just a
family, personal, and sporting commitments,
short while, but it wasn’t happening. Suddenly, a serious look crept across his face and while I noticed that he held a little black box in his hands, it wasn’t registering with me as to
From the moment I set foot in The Boyne Suit, I was totally sold on the venue. what was happening, as I was delusional with tiredness and in the midst of a fatigue-fuelled rant. For one crazy split second, I thought/imagined that he was after opening the box, which housed a ring and that he had proposed to me. Surreal was the word and deafening was the silence. I just sat there, all picture, no sound.
Real Wedding I IWD Feature I 179
On Sunday, 21st January 2017, I was driving past The Lucan Spa Hotel and noticed that the hotel’s wedding fair was taking place. I decided, on the spur of the moment, that I would drop in and scout for ideas, inspiration etc, but never once had either of us ever considered the hotel as a possible wedding venue. It was the last day of the wedding fair, it was late afternoon and they were just about to “shut up shop”.
I had just one particular dress type in mind as I visited a number of boutiques. On 27th February, I inadvertently found THE dress ... online. It was a beautiful Justin Alexander dress. With a few minor alterations, it became absolutely perfect. In no time, our wedding day was upon us. We really and truly had the BEST DAY EVER! Órfhlaith, Saoirse and I stayed in the hotel the night before. We (along with Jack) met with some family members and friends in the hotel that night. On the morning of our wedding, Órfhlaith, Saoirse and I had a leisurely breakfast; we strolled back to our room, showered and watched cartoons while Catherine Reid, our hairstylist and make up artist, performed her magic.
band, The Wise Guys, our photographer, Pat Gorman (Trend Photography) amongst others, in no small way, contributed to each and every one of us having ONE HELL OF A DO! Claire Casey and the hotel’s wedding co-ordination team, including Mr. Frank Colgan, with their vast experience and professionalism combined, ensured that our day was the most enjoyable, relaxed, stress and hassle-free day that we could have ever wished for. Jack and I are extremely grateful to everyone who made our wedding day so memorable. We’re especially proud of our girls, Órfhlaith and Saoirse, we could never have had such an
From the moment I set foot in The Boyne Suite, I was totally sold on the hotel as our wedding venue. It was a most impressive and stunning ballroom. With a rich red and gold
Our wedding day was an incredible experience from start to finish
colour scheme, it was adorned with beautiful, magnificent fairytale-like chandeliers. I spoke with Claire Casey, the hotel’s wedding coordinator, and she only reinforced my thinking, that this was the venue for us. Jack visited the hotel the following day and, likewise, he too was hugely impressed. The date was set, 30th December 2017. This would also be our eldest daughter’s 13th birthday. Not one but two celebrations were now on the cards.
180 I IWD Feature I Real Wedding
extraordinary day without them. Dubai called and on 3rd January 2018, we duly answered that call, enjoying seven spectacular Arabian nights!
Our wedding day was an incredible
experience
from
start to finish and was made so by many, many people. Our guests, every single one of them, our wedding celebrant Vincent
Whelan
Ceremonies),
our
(Spiritual vocalist
and musician, Ann Tuite, our
The Real Wedding of
Orla & Paul At The Killaoe Hotel on August 3rd 2018
P
aul and I met in college; since then, we moved to London, Australia, and back to Dublin. Having all the friends we made during our travels with us on our big day meant a lot to us.
proposed at the entrance arch to the park; as luck would have it, there was a busker singing a lovely Coldplay song just as we arrived. We hadn’t really talked about it, so to say I was shocked was an understatement.
Paul booked a restaurant for our anniversary. I
celebrate buying our first home. I was totally
didn’t think anything of it as he usually books
oblivious at dinner, I had no idea of the surprise
We wanted a relatively small wedding (by Irish
somewhere extra nice for our anniversary. He
to come. After dinner, Paul asked if I wanted to
standards,)so we could spend time with the
booked a private area in a French restaurant,
go to St Stephen’s Green for a walk. I thought,
people who were there. Initially, we looked
the same restaurant that we went to to
sure it’s our anniversary, why not? Paul
around Leinster as it seemed to have a bigger
182 I IWD Feature I Real Weddings
Photography by Eamon at photographic.ie
selection of venues, but Paul thought it would
I have two amazing sisters, so choosing my
wedding anywhere else. Our florist, Kay and
be lovely to get married in my local church. We
bridesmaids was a very easy choice. My close
Ring O’Roses, did an amazing job with the
then started looking for venues in Munster.
friends got special parts to play during the
church flowers which gave the place a sense
day, which gave the day a great communal
The Killaloe and loved the idea of having our reception drinks outside
atmosphere. I really enjoyed looking for my wedding dress, as I know what I like and don’t like. I actually went back and bought the first dress I tried on. I love nothing more than clothes shopping, I
I wanted something a bit different that catered
love it so much I started a fashion blog, Daly
for smaller weddings. When we found The
Fashion Fix, so I can share with other fashion
Killaloe Hotel online, we said we would go
addicts. When I collected my dress, I made a
and have a look. We were really impressed
day of it and invited the girls over for bubbles.
by the harbour-view gardens in The Killaloe and loved the idea of having our reception
Paul is from Offaly, his dad and two groomsmen
drinks out there. Catherine, the very hands-
all live there, so we went with Galvins of
on proprietor, then brought us into the area
Tullamore for the men’s suits. They had a great
of occasion. Our wedding singers were the
where we would have our meal and we were
selection to choose from and they all looked
Vard Sisters, they are absolutely stunning, their
really impressed, it was the perfect size for 115
fantastic.
three voices filled the church beautifully, giving it a great atmosphere.
guests. It was tastefully finished with exposed beams, beautiful wainscoting, Chiavari chairs
We had our ceremony in Crecora Church in
and elegant chandeliers for centrepieces. It
Limerick, it is such a beautiful church, it’s not
We were so thrilled with the whole day from
had a relaxed vibe which we loved. We liked
too big and is a stone’s throw from the house
start to finish. My makeup artist, Niamh
the idea of a luxury boutique hotel where our
I grew up in. We wouldn’t have had a church
O’Dwyer, did an amazing job making everyone
guests could occupy the whole venue. Once we booked the venue, the woodland theme in our decor naturally emerged.
Real Weddings I IWD Feature I 183
look their best, and then some of the girls
the church. Our photographer, Eamon, and
good weather really made it feel as if we were
popped over for a glass of prosecco before
videographer Tom were so chilled out, they
abroad. Another plus for having our reception
the ceremony. Paul was definitely nervous, but
made this part of the day a bit of fun.
in the garden meant we could do our balloon release (they were biodegradable) and guests
relaxed more and more as the day went on. We were absolutely blessed with the weather,
could toast and enjoy s’mores by the fire pit.
not only did we get to take lots of beautiful pictures in the forest and jetty in Killaloe,
The reception room was adorned with flowers
but got to have our reception drinks in the
and looked stunning. We had some of our speeches before the meal and some after
From start to finish we had an amazing day, the food throughout the day was fabulous
which worked out really well. Then we danced the night away! One of the highlights would definitely have to be Jimmy, our DJ, playing “New York, New York” as a kind of last dance for the bride and groom. From start to finish, we had an amazing day, the food throughout the day was fabulous, including the tacos which
harbour gardens of the Killaloe Hotel, which
went down a treat by the time midnight came.
When we headed out to Killaloe in our little
are absolutely stunning. Catherine and her
We really feel like Catherine and her team went
vintage Beatle to take photos, it was nice to
team did a fantastic job personalising our
all out for our wedding and made sure we had
have some time with just the two of us after
space and catering to our every need. The
an enjoyable and stress-free day.
184 I IWD Feature I Real Weddings
The Real Wedding of
Jemma & Rob At the Clanard Court Hotel on 15th June 2018
186 I IWD Feature I Real Wedding
Photography by: Gary Kavanagh Photography www.garykavanagh.ie Tel: 089 485 4270
I
am originally from Scotland, although I’ve been living in Ireland for 15 years, and Rob is from Co. Kildare. We met almost six years ago through our mutual love of horses, although love didn’t blossom for us until nearly a year later when we kissed on a night out at Hallowe’en.
date right away that day. We both knew that no other hotel would match up to the feeling we got when we walked in. I dealt with Claire with most of the details in the lead-up to the wedding, and I honestly felt I could email or call her about anything. She helped make our experience so brilliant, she is one in a million!
From our very first date in the Wax Museum,
we got the best news ever when we found out
we both knew we would be inseparable. For
we were pregnant. So when Rob planned a
I didn’t plan to get my dress
the next few years, we had our ups and downs
weekend away to Edinburgh, I couldn’t believe
on the day I did. My mum,
(mainly ups!). We moved in together, went on
it when, in Edinburgh Zoo, he pulled out a ring
Aimee, and I went along to the
various holidays, and generally had the most
and got down on one knee. Little did I know he
Ballsbridge Hotel as they had
fun together.
had been planning the trip since January, and
a wedding dress sample sale.
both of our families were in on it. I couldn’t
I thought it would be a good
For about six months before we got engaged,
believe my Mum had been able to keep it a
place to start trying dresses,
I kept hinting and jokingly sent Rob photos of
secret!
but didn’t really plan to actually
engagement rings, and he appeared to just
buy one that day. As soon as I
laugh it off! Getting engaged was pushed to
We put any wedding planning on hold and just
saw my dress on the rail I knew
the back of my mind because, in March 2016,
enjoyed the bliss of being newly engaged and
it was ‘the dress’, and when I
the excitement of becoming parents. After the
tried it on, Mum and I looked at
longest nine months, our beautiful daughter,
each other and cried! To top it
Aimee, was born. As any new parent knows, the
all off, Aimee started clapping!
first few months of parenthood are so special, but very busy and very tiring. So wedding
My dress was Blush by Hayley Paige from
planning hadn’t really crossed our minds until
Padanee Bridal, and C&M Bridal in Clane did
we heard that the Clanard Court Hotel in Athy
all the alterations. The ladies there made me
were having a wedding showcase.
fall even more in love with my dress. I had my friend, Niamh, as my maid of honour and my two
As soon as we walked into the Clanard Court,
friends, Yvonne and Katie, as my bridesmaids.
we were blown away, we got such a special
We bought their multiway dresses online after
feeling. The hotel is beautiful; the fireplace in
shopping around, and Aimee’s flower-girl dress
the hotel lobby, the floor-to-ceiling windows
was from Debenhams. Rob had his brother,
in the ballroom that overlook the gardens,
Karl, as his best man, and his brother, Ian, and
the chandeliers. There is such character and
friend Damien as his groomsmen. We hired
attention to detail. Not only that, but all of the
their kilts, along with both Dads’, my brother’s
staff are amazing, they are so family orientated,
and our pageboy’s kilts, from Debenhams, and
which was so important to us. We booked our
I have to say they all looked so handsome.
Real Wedding I IWD Feature I 187
to detail was second to none, added to by Rob and Damien’s handmade horseshoe table numbers and table time, we got stuck in traffic, and were around
plan. The speeches were before the
but as soon as family started arriving from
15 minutes late. To say I was panicking was an
meal as Rob was so nervous. We had my Dad,
Scotland, Australia, and England, it really
understatement.
Rob’s Dad, Rob (who was amazing despite
The lead-up to the wedding was so surreal,
being so nervous) and the best man, Karl.
started to feel real. Rob and I spent the night before the wedding in our parents’ houses, and
Caroline Behan, a friend of ours, sang as my
Rob delivered a lovely present the night before
Dad and I walked down the aisle. It was such
The food at the Clanard Court is outstanding,
which had me in tears.
a special moment for me, seeing Rob looking
we couldn’t compliment it more. Everyone
very emotional, holding Aimee, waiting for
commented on how delicious it was, and
The morning of the wedding was so relaxed,
me. The ceremony was officiated by Vincent
everyone’s tastes were catered for. The service
and I was surprisingly calm, which was probably
Whelan from Spiritual Ceremonies, and he did
was also amazing and Liam, the General
helped by the fact the weather was lovely, and
a great job of personalising the ceremony to us
Manager, made sure everything ran smoothly.
Aimee was running around making everyone
as a family. We had a beautiful sand ceremony
laugh. Our hair and makeup were done by two
for the three of us, as Aimee is obviously such
Our band was 4till6 and they had everyone
very talented ladies, Amy Doherty of Makeup
a huge part of our story.
from grandparents to kids on the dance floor all night. We had our first dance, followed
by AmyD and Emma Jane Cullen from Emma Jane Hair Studio in Clane. We were all thrilled,
We had our photos taken in the hotel and
by a special Father-Daughter dance, which
and our hair and makeup lasted all day. Our
my horse, Clover, came down to get in a few
somehow ended with Rob slow dancing with
flowers were from Flowerz by Amanda in Clane
photos. It felt very fitting that he should be
my Dad, which was hilarious!
and they were breath-taking. I had a very exact
there, since we met through horses. The day was everything we could have possibly
image of what I wanted, and Amanda went above and beyond. We were joined throughout the day by Gary from Gary Kavanagh Photography as our photographer and videographer. As soon as we saw his work, we knew he would capture the magic of our day perfectly. Not only is he a talented photographer, he put us at ease straight away and is such a great guy. The drive down to the hotel with Dad was really special, it was lovely to spend some time as just the two of us. Typically, even though we left on
188 I IWD Feature I Real Wedding
Rob and I had a chance to look at the reception
imagined and more. The perfect start to our
room and it was out of this world. The attention
happily ever after.
Winter Wedding Showcases January & February 2019
HHHH Dublin Road, Athy, Co.Kildare 059 8640666 I sales@clanardcourt.ie
www.clanardcourt.ie
Eamonn Walsh
World Champion Uilleann Piper
Specialising in Weddings
Tel: 087-277 5317 Email: vippiper@eircom.net www.worldchampionpiper.com 190 I IWD I Wedding Diary Directory Eamonn Walsh Piper.indd 1
05/12/2017 20:08
UKEBOX
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Do You Want a Wedding Cake that Will Really WOW Your Guests? Baked By Liz creates delicious customised wedding cakes to suit your style and personality which makes each cake special & unique!
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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
cakes e and cup azing cak y Liz. m a n a I received y from Baked B to none, recentl s second detail wa to n e! o ti st The atten to mention the ta ugh not Liz eno commend I can’t re cakes and bakes! ur for all yo F July 2018 Shauna
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Bridal Brooch Bouquets Make the Memory Last with an Individually Hand Crafted Satin Rose and Brooch Bridal Bouquet by Ann Cassidy
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!
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Cassidy Chauffeur Drive
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Vintage Wedding Car Specialists
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192 I IWD I Wedding Diary Directory
05/12/2017 20:06
Discover the Diamond Decadence of
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WHEN THER E ’ S
SOM ETHIN G SPECI AL
HAPPENING . . . “ Our team prides itself on excellent service & we promise we will go the extra mile to tailor-make your day” Elisabet Diaz, General Manager.
To make an appointment to view the venue, please contact our Events Team on 01 801 3500 or email: events@dunboynecastlehotel.com Dunboyne Castle Hotel & Spa, Dunboyne, Co. Meath, A86 PW63. www.dunboynecastlehotel.com