Irish Lgbt Weddings by April Drew

LGBT

IRISH

Issue 2 WINTER 2015 €3.95/£2.55

Weddings

A click away... TIPS & TRICKS FOR YOUR WEDDING DAY

PLUS Engagement stories from the Irish LGBT Community Ireland’s first same sex wedding magazine launched 10 days after Ireland’s YES vote

2009869018-01.eps NBW=85 B=20

Photo courtesy of DMC Photography

f r o m h a p p i ly ever after

IN THIS ISSUE

Editor’s Letter

CONTENT

Hello Irish

Real Weddings 10-12

Lisa and Karen - Keep calm, we’re getting married

16-20

Mars and Ash - A click away from happily ever after

26-28

Jolene and Aine - Soulmates from the southeast

33-37

Wayne and John - Puppy love leads to fairly ‘tail’ day

40-42

Lisa and MyLinda - A forever kind of thing

49-52

Connie and Sinead - A real case of ‘love at first sight’

54-56

Sean and John - Be my valentine

63-66

Frank and David - Love is in the air and ‘plane’ for all to see

72-74

Garreth and Don - A magical December wedding

81-84

Jules and Vicki - A circus date was just the ticket

94-97

Joy and Simona - Scrum-thing old, new, borrowed and blue

Wedding Tips and Tricks 14

Fabulous wedding trends –several musts for this season

Making Shapes- how to dress your bridesmaids/bestwoman

Cakespiration - wedding planner Kate Deegan shows us the

hottest cake trends

Alternative grooms wear pieces - just to be different

Trash the dress - but don’t destroy it

How to save for your big day - start now

Tips for enjoying your wedding day – take notes

PLUS 98

A ‘Marvel-ous’ proposal by Declan for Alan

FRONT COVER Cover 1 Newlyweds Marilyn Huijgens and Ashna Devi Photographer DMC Photography Location Muckross Park, Killarney, Co. Kerry Cover 2 Newlyweds Wayne Price and John Dunning Photographer John Delaney Photography Location Castleknock Hotel and Country Club, Dublin

LGBT

couples

Welcome to our first printed issue of Irish LGBT Weddings. We are a new publication, well sort of new - our very first issue was a digital magazine launched 10 days after the all important “Yes” vote in May. Due to a huge demand from same-sex couples all over the world (yes a huge amount from the States) asking for a printed version of the magazine we decided to hit the streets running and have now launched a quarterly publication that will sell nationwide across Ireland. This magazine is also available digitally (for free) and via subscription if you can’t get your hands on a physical copy. Since the marriage referendum LGBT couples are busy booking wedding venues, choosing their bridesmen and groomsmaids, searching for the perfect wedding photographer and all that jazz. It’s exciting isn’t it? At the time of print of this issue the exact date that marriage between same sex couples would become legally binding in Ireland was still unknown, but we are confident that our next issue will be bursting at the seams with real life marriages. For now we are thrilled to feature some wonderful civil partnerships that took place throughout Ireland in the past few years and look forward to helping all you wonderful couples organise your perfect wedding day. We have some wonderful love stories that you can draw inspiration from. How about Wayne and John’s helicopter arrival, or Ashna’s stunning wedding look? Or how romantic is it that MyLinda and Lisa fall asleep talking to each other over skype each night? We love your wedding stories and had such fun in the Irish LGBT Weddings office putting all of these together. Declan gets the best proposal prize. We won’t give anything away but if you can’t wait to see what I’m referring to skip ahead to page 98 for some seriously romantic gestures. We’ve gathered some fun tips and tricks for you to implement into your wedding should you choose and have teamed up with several hotels and wedding vendors throughout Ireland to bring you some additional information on their business, helping you guys to make the right decision on venues and suppliers alike. And finally our front page covers! We’re not sure if you are reading the issue with Marilyn and Ashna or with John and Wayne on the front but either way we hope you like it. We decided since May 22, 2015 was all about giving couples a choice that we would give our LGBT readers a choice on which front cover to choose. Either way we hope you won’t be disappointed and we would love to hear from you. Happy wedding planning guys and we look forward to reading all about your big day in issues to come. Have a lovely Winter! April Drew Founding Executive Editor and Publisher

EDITOR-IN-CHIEF April Drew ASSISTANT EDITOR Michaela Keating GRAPHIC DESIGNER Peter O’Carroll JUNIOR GRAPHIC DESIGNER Aisling O’Halloran VECTOR ART designed by Freepik.com CONTRIBUTORS Kate Deegan, Michael Counihan and Trevor Birmingham MARKETING AND SALES April@IrishLGBTWeddings.ie T: 085 8015278 DISTRIBUTION EM News Distribution, Dublin PRINTERS Walsh Colour Print, Castleisland, Co. Kerry www.IrishLGBTweddings.ie

LGBT

IRISH

Issue 2 WINTER 2015 €3.95/£2.55

Weddings

Puppy Love... TIPS & TRICKS FOR YOUR WEDDING DAY

PLUS Engagement stories from the Irish LGBT Community Ireland’s first same sex wedding magazine launched 10 days after Ireland’s YES vote

2009869018-01.eps NBW=85 B=20

Photo courtesy of John Delaney Photography

leads to f a i r ly ‘ ta i l’ d ay

IN THIS ISSUE

Editor’s Letter

CONTENT

Hello Irish

Real Weddings 10-12

Lisa and Karen - Keep calm, we’re getting married

16-20

Mars and Ash - A click away from happily ever after

26-28

Jolene and Aine - Soulmates from the southeast

33-37

Wayne and John - Puppy love leads to fairly ‘tail’ day

40-42

Lisa and MyLinda - A forever kind of thing

49-52

Connie and Sinead - A real case of ‘love at first sight’

54-56

Sean and John - Be my valentine

63-66

Frank and David - Love is in the air and ‘plane’ for all to see

72-74

Garreth and Don - A magical December wedding

81-84

Jules and Vicki - A circus date was just the ticket

94-97

Joy and Simona - Scrum-thing old, new, borrowed and blue

Wedding Tips and Tricks 14

Fabulous wedding trends –several musts for this season

Making Shapes- how to dress your bridesmaids/bestwoman

Cakespiration - wedding planner Kate Deegan shows us the

hottest cake trends

Alternative grooms wear pieces - just to be different

Trash the dress - but don’t destroy it

How to save for your big day - start now

Tips for enjoying your wedding day – take notes

PLUS 98

A ‘Marvel-ous’ proposal by Declan for Alan

LGBT

couples

Complimentary use of civil ceremony room while hosting your day at Bunratty Castle hotel

Contact David, Marguerite or Heather

PRIDE & JOY

Irish fashion designer sh a res his own l o v e stor y By Don O’Neill Twenty two years ago my life was changed. An extraordinary man with a heart of gold, a little French dancer called Pascal Guillermie pirouetted into my heart and took up residence. This incredibly handsome young man, though small in stature, could fill every inch of a giant stage with his presence and little did I know that he would fill every inch of my life and the universe as I knew it with unending love.

All those years ago as I stitched together costumes for the Baroque Opera “Phaeton” created for the re-opening of “The Opera de Lyon”, Pascal would come to me daily to say “Hi” and find excuses for longer visits. He came and asked me to mind his friend Nathalie’s cat who had broken her paw, so they could come check on the cat on their breaks. When out of excuses, he came with costume issues; they didn’t fit or were cutting in to him, as he was suspended on stage on a bungee harness in gold sequin bicycle shorts.

As my career transformed, and I took that terrifying leap of faith to move to Badgley Mischka, he held my hand every morning on the subway for four months and told me to do it just one day at a time and as it evolved into THEIA, he has done everything he can to help me shine bright (believe me most of the time it’s like pushing a giant snow ball up a hill). Down to selflessly helping producing my first runway show and every show since, to making sure when I get home after long hours I have nothing to worry about when I get home. Pascal is the definition of Love, he gives 2000 percent to love, to honour, to hold , in sickness and in health. Without ever taking these vows, he epitomizes them. The sacrifices he makes as he gives selflessly; no questions asked , always. I thank God for the gift of Pascal Guillermie , that he blessed me with 22 years ago and I thank God that he also gave Pascal all the necessary super human patience. “Je t’aime comme tu imagine pas”

With his incredibly long curly hair, usually pulled back in to a tight bun, he charmed me with his good looks and his quirky sense of fun. Fittingly Pascal was playing the roll of Phaeton, The Sun God, radiating sunshine and light wherever he went , adored by his fellow dancers and all of us in the atelier. As I fell in love with him over the month of working in the Theatre de Genvilliers, I thought he was straight, and even had to get my good friend Moira in to rehearsals for a look to see what she thought. Moira thought he was adorable and that evening as I left the theatre, with Pascal still working, his best friend Nathalie confirmed he liked boys! Woohooo! That night, April 28th 1993, we had our first date. Our fate was sealed, and we set sail on a magical journey. We have been through so much together, ups and downs, through great hardship and sadness, to great joys and happiness. Through all these years Pascal sacrificed so much. Leaving his world of dance to follow me to the United States, giving up being able to visit his family in France when he became trapped illegally in the USA for almost 14 years. He has laboured and toiled to create beautiful apartments, endless research to find our gorgeous house and then transform it in to our “Nid d’amour”. He planned spectacular holidays, spoiling our families on dream vacations.

Don

protocol 8

FOR MEN

Established over 20 years ago, we are Irelands premier destination for Wedding Suit Hire, with a vast choice of outfits available in our collection, including tailored suits and tails.

NEW Collection Coming Soon Exclusive collection to Protocol for Men

Please visit us in our Dublin or Swords Store or call or email us for more information. Email: info@protocolformen.ie

NOW OPEN at 42 Dawson Street 42 Dawson Street, Dublin 2 Tel: 01 677 2777

No. 6 The Plaza, Main Street, Swords Tel: 01 8107453

Monza Menswear, 46 Dawson Street, Dublin 2 Tel: 01 6336806

SUITS FROM €195 HIRE SUITS FROM €95 NEW COLLECTION INCLUDING TWEEDS, CHECKS & 3 PIECE IN WINE, BROWN & PETROL BLUE BUY GROOMS SUIT AND HIRE GROOMSMAN SUIT

SPECIAL OPENING OFFER With this advert Buy ONE suit and get a SECOND half price (mention this advert to avail of offer)

www.protocolformen.ie

Ireland’s widest selection of wedding suits to buy or hire

Keep Calm WEâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;RE GETTING MARRRIED Lisa Morrison & Karen Doherty 16th January 2015

Radisson Blu Hotel

PRIDE & JOY

Photos courtesy of Dermot Mullane Photography

The Back Story

Lisa Morrison, from Kileely, Limerick, and Karen Doherty met 14 years ago through mutual friends. The pair, who now reside in Dublin, were just friends for eight of those years until finally there was no denying they were meant to be together. â&#x20AC;&#x153;We were seeing each other for a year and a half when Lisa took the plunge and moved to the big smoke to be with me,â&#x20AC;? shares Karen. The weekend Lisa moved lock, stock and barrel to be with her partner in Dublin was more than special. Karen knew she wanted to spend the rest of her life with Lisa so she popped the question that August in 2010. They finally set the date in October 2013.

WEDDING DATE January 16, 2015 WEDDING VENUE Radisson Blu Hotel, Limerick

HOW MANY GUESTS? 260

THE DRESSES Both brides wore wedding dresses which were

purchased from Butterfly Brides but neither knew until the day what kind of dress they chose. They wore converse runners with the dresses for comfort.

FLOWERGIRLS/PAGEBOYS Outfits from Littlewoods. All seven nieces and three nephews played a part in the ceremony. They all wore converse with their outfits. PHOTOGRAPHER Dermot Mullane was the photographer INVITES The girls designed the invites themselves which consisted of the pride colours and the following; “Keep Calm We’re Getting Married. WEDDING THEME Michael Jackson (Lisa’s idol). Lots of

fun involved. Their first dance ended with both brides dancing to ‘Thriller.’

FAVOURITE MEMORIES OF THE DAY “Our favourite

memories are the first time seeing each other and exchanging our vows in front of our amazing family and friends.”

HONEYMOON Rivieria Maya, Cancun for ten nights and three nights in New York.

ANY EXTRA BITS “We hired a photo booth from Black & White Events which went down a treat with guests. Everybody loved it. The guys were very professional and a great idea for a wedding. The photo booth album and USB key we received is priceless.”

PERSONAL TOUCHES “Our favours were a hangover

kit which was very useful for the morning after. We also had personalised beer mats thanking our guests for joining us on our special day. We hired a LED dance floor which set the room alight.

“We are ecstatic with the result. We never expected the amount of love and support we received. It truly means the world to us that we will have the same rights as married couples. We intend celebrating when we receive our marriage certificate however not to the extent of our civil partnership of course but it will be as memorable.”

Some of this year’s fabulous... By Michaela Keating

wedding trends

Suit up! For many women trousers win over a dress any day, so why should your wedding day be any different? Tailored bridal suits are a major trend for 2015 so for those who rather a tapered leg to tulle skirts you’re in luck! Bridal suits add a sophisticated and modern edge to your bridal look and can be found in a style to suit every shape. You can also pop to the ladies without assistance of a designated ‘dress holder’. Bonus!

Colour pop Navy, black and grey wedding suits are always a classic wedding look for the grooms; however, the more vibrant groom will be delighted to know that coloured wedding suits are just as fab and are a huge trend. From cerise pinks to pastel purples, coloured wedding attire is perfect for expressing your personality.

Personalised wedding favours

Re-create your parents wedding photos ur parents

yo It is a privilege to have day or ing dd we ur yo g din en att ts who ren pa r be em to fondly rem t no y wh may have passed, so ating cre reby m commemorate the day (minus the on s oto ph ing dd their we es!). the bad mullet and ruffl

It’s the little things that matter on your wedding day. Everyone loves a good sweet cart but why not add personalised goodie bags for your friends and family to load the sweets into. From ‘Spreading the Love’ on a personalised jam jar to painted clothes pegs on your seating plan, these little touches can really make the day yours.

SWEETS

New themes on the block Themed weddings are always fabulous and in recent times there has been a super amount of boho, vintage and urban chic weddings. These alternative weddings have been taking the wedding industry by storm with couples opting for a less traditional- more modern take on their wedding to suit their own personalities. Outdoor ceremonies and beach weddings are also on the rise but with Ireland’s weather never being quite so sure of itself, you may want to keep an eye on the forecast before taking the plunge and going outdoors!

Colourful Cakes The traditional white cake is a timeless classic but this season, coloured wedding cakes are becoming more and more popular, just in time to give a nod to the newly legalised same sex marriage in Ireland! From pastel pastries to rainbow roulade the possibilities are endless. Ask your local cake supplier or have a look online a cake to find a ‘wife and wife’ or ‘husband and husband’ cake topper to add to the fun.

Email: ishannon@avonri.com

A Majestic

Phone: +353 (0) 45 900 670

Lakeside Wedding Location

in Co. Wicklow

Capture the exceptional views by having your ceremony on our helipad!

We are a very unique lakeshore resort just outside Blessington, Co Wicklow (15 mins from M50). With spectacular views overlooking Blessington Lake and Wicklow Mountains our wedding team would be delighted to discuss and organise a personalised package to suit your individual needs and budget . No request is too big or too small. Our Russborough Suite is available to hold your banqueting meal, with spectacular views overlooking Blessington Lakes.

One Wedding Per Day Promise

Ceremonies can be inside or out! Why not have your ceremony on our Helipad and take in the breath taking scenery. Isobel, our on-site Wedding Coordinator would love to meet with you to discuss details of your BIG DAY further.

www.avonri.com

A click away... f rom h a p p i ly e v er a f ter Ashna Devi & Marilyn Huijgens 28th August 2015

Muckross Park Hotel in Killarney, Co. Kerry

PRIDE & JOY

Photos courtesy of DMC Photography

By Michaela Keating

It was an accidental meet online for Ashna Devi and Marilyn Huijgens in 2009. Ashna, originally from Fiji Islands and Marilyn, born in the Netherlands to an Irish mammy and Dutch daddy, hit it off immediately, Skyping for six months before the big meet. Ashna recalls the beginning of her relationship with her beloved ‘Mars’. “Mars flew to New Zealand to meet me on May 12, 2010. I then flew back to Ireland with her a month later and have been here since.”

LOVE BLOSSOMS After three blissfull years of dating Mars got down on one knee and proposed to Ashna. “We went up to Donegal for a midweek break. I was hoping to propose to her on the beach by writing in the sand ‘will you marry me?’ but the weather was so bad that day with wind and rain it was safer to stay away from the beach. When we got to the hotel, Ash was videoing the suite we were in so while she had her back turned, I grabbed the ring and kneeled down behind her while nervously saying “Bubba, I want to ask you something…” and she then slowly turned around and I smilingly asked ‘will you marry me?’ with the ring in my hand. She said “Aw baby, of course I will.’ It was a very emotional moment.” And so began the wedding planning. The date was set for August 28, 2015. 80 of the girls’ closest friends and family were invited with 20 more joining the afters. The stunning Muckross Park Hotel in Killarney, Co. Kerry was the chosen venue for their big day.

THE DRESSES “We both wore a dress. Ashna got a beautiful Indian style anarkali which she had custom made by an online shop in London. It had beautiful stonework on the front of it and the colours were just fab on her. I wore a bordeaux coloured halter-neck style dress which I bought in a bridal shop in Dublin. Our colours went very well together. Our theme was gold so my dress, Ashna’s dress and that of the bridesmaids all tied in together using gold.” The roles of bridesmaid were given to Ashna’s sister and two of their friends. Not to forget the dapper lads of course. “We didn’t have groomsmen as such but we had two pageboys which were our nephews ,aged 4 and 5. Our oldest nephew, 12, was the ring bearer and Marilyn’s dad, brother, cousin, and my brother all wore the same colour suits and ties.”

The ladies had their make up done by the talented staff at Muckross Park Hotel Spa. “They were excellent and again very nice to deal with. They did a great job at making us look our best on the day.”

CHERISHED MOMENTS Both Marilyn and Ashna recall with fondness the moment they first laid eyes on each other on their wedding day. Marilyn shed tears of joy at the sight of her bride. “I was in floods of tears but didn’t care, she looked absolutely amazing and I could tell by the reaction of our friends and family they all shared the same feeling,” recalls Marilyn. And that set Ashna off! “I think for me it was of course seeing Marilyn coming down the stairs was extremely emotional. I was actually composed until she walked over crying, of course that then set me off, but they were only happy tears. We came a long way since we met in 2010 and I suppose the day was a reward for having worked so hard to get to where we are now.” The ceremony, officiated by Civil Registrar Mary T.O’Shea, was also a highlight for the Fiji native. “The ceremony itself was absolutely beautiful and I loved the fact that there were funny moments, like when I tried to put the ring on Marilyn’s finger, it initially looked like it wasn’t going to fit, but then it did. The speeches were also fantastic and definitely one of my favourite moments,” shared Ashna.

The pair also lit a candle in memory of Ash’s parents right before the ceremony began. After the ceremony, it was time to enjoy their fabulous reception with their guests. “The dancing we did when entering the reception room for dinner, we chose the song ‘Hold my hand’ by Jess Glynne, I couldn’t stand still so once we were ready to be seated at the top table and the song was still playing, I was dancing next to Ash while looking at her and singing to her ‘I’m ready for this, there’s no denying, I’m ready for this, you stop me falling…’, it was such an amazing moment.” A moment caught by their photographer David McLean. After an emotional rollercoaster of a fabulous wedding day, the newlyweds are now settling into married life and planning their honeymoon to New Zealand at the end of the year. So what did it mean for the girls to marry the love of their lives? Ashna gushes about her wife. “It was the best day of my life to be able to marry Mars. As I mentioned earlier, we worked very hard battling many obstacles over the last five years but our wedding day just showed that we are able to tackle any obstacle in our way by being together. She is my pookie bear and I can’t imagine me sharing my life with anyone else.”

Marilyn concurs, “The last five years we dealt with a lot from having to prove our relationship for Ashna’s immigration status in Ireland to her dads’ passing and every single one of those obstacles tested our relationship but we came through every one of them and I can safely say that I couldn’t have done that with anyone else but her. We have our own unique little language that we use sometimes when we talk to each other, the cute talk, that am sure lots of couples have and I love the fact I can be as silly or crazy as I want around her and she tells me off where necessary . And of course with the Marriage Equality referendum passing in May, this was a huge year for us too so it means the world to be able to say that within the next few months we can say we are wifey and wifey and not just civil partners.”

How was your experience at the Muckross Park Hotel? “Our wedding day was epic, thanks to the atmosphere, setting, staff and service at Muckross Park Hotel. It is an absolutely magical place, the setting is amazing, the staff are professional and always up for a friendly little chat and make it their business to make sure you have a real five star experience. The bedrooms (especially the bridal suite) are fab and boost with character, as does the Monk Lounge where you can relax with a drink or with some friends, as we did the night before the wedding. All in all, a real FIVE star experience.”

Tell us about your experience working with David McLean OF DMC Photography “David McLean was our photographer. There wasn’t one moment where Mars and I felt uncomfortable or felt that we couldn’t be ourselves. David really made us feel at ease and he knew how to get a smile or laugh out of us, mind you, I don’t think it required too much effort. We could not fault David as a photographer and the end result photographs prove he did a fantastic job.” David McLean Photography www.dmcphotography.ie

Five star weddings & civil ceremonies .....

..... in the heart of Killarney National Park For more information and a private consultation contact our Wedding Sales Manager Bernie Oâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;Donoghue today. Tel: 064 662 3400 Email: bodonoghue@muckrosspark.com

So Ireland said YES... now for the perfect suit

If you prefer, why not do two different looks? For example choose a grey suit for yourself and a navy suit for the future hubby. White Shirts Make sure you invest in a good quality white shirt. Zara is my first stop for a classy crisp white shirt. You don’t have to pick up your tie in the same suit shop so have a look around!

By Trevor Bermingham On the 22 of May I was overwhelmed as a gay man that I’m now just like every other Irish citizen. So as a stylist here are a few tips on how men should dress for their big day! Enjoy the planning process and don’t forget to look amazing while doing so!

A few gay men I’ve chatted to about wedding attire have said they would go with a different look like a tweed blazer and trousers and Ireland have an array of stylish blazers to choose from.

The Suit As a gay man personally my wedding attire would be, (if I was lucky enough to meet Mr. Right) a bespoke black fitted suit and crisp white shirt. My groom would be matching but we would have different coloured ties and pocket squares like red or purple. I think a well fitted black suit has an air of class.

Don’t forget shoes! With a black suit you can go for patent shoes which always finishes off the look. With your gray, navy or tweed suit the New Look brown brogues are perfect. After all your only going to get married once so you’re entitled to spend a fortune on your big day! As long as you celebrate your love looking stylish is all that matters!

Follow me on Facebook – Trevor’s Style Blog – personal shopping service available and/or advice tips on any aspect of styling or grooming.

Something old...

Something NEW... Contact us to view our full range of bespoke, hand-crafted, wooden wedding arches. Prices include delivery, setup and removal. 20% discount with this advert.

Phone:

087 4555 630

Email:

happilyeverarches@gmail.com

Facebook:

happilyeverarches

Perfect for... Outdoor Weddings Beach Photographs Intimate Venues Engagement Shoots & many other occasions

On your wedding day, surround yourself with more than just family and friends...

Mackey Coaches

Wide range of wedding cars available (vintage, modern and stretch). Check out our recent addition - the Vintage Bus.

We pride ourselves on the quality of our vehicles and guarantee all vehicles are absolutely gleaming on your wedding day.

Call today for a competitive quote.

We supply champagne, bottled water, tissues, ivory or white ribbons and umbrellas. All chauffeurs in suits and hat!

We look after all your wedding transportation from your vehicle to the guestsâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;. Arrive on time or be fashionably late; the choice is yours!

We provide solutions to any special requests any couple may have!

Lady Chauffeurs also available. Â All vehicles and drivers are fully licenced and insured.

Phone: (021) 466 8334 Email: mackeycoaches@gmail.com

www.mackeycoaches.ie

Mobile: 086-2529136 086-8346756

Soul Mates

FROM THE SOUTH EAST Jolene Coady & Aine Maher 28th August 2015

Waterford Theatre Royal

PRIDE & JOY

Photos courtesy of Paddy Tubritt Photography

A BIT ABOUT THE BRIDES Jolene Coady is

from Waterford and Aine Maher is from Carlow. The couple currently live together in Waterford City. Jolene is a full time student and part-time care giver. Aine works in outdoor activities.

THE MEET At Pride in Waterford THE DECISION TO GET MARRIED? “Six months in we just knew! Aine had been paying off for a ring for me which I didn’t know but I bought a ring and proposed to her on Tramore beach,” Jolene recalls fondly. WEDDING DATE August 28, 2015 VENUE Waterford Theatre Royal

HOW MANY GUESTS? 45

Tell us about your experience at the Theatre Royal “The Theatre Royal was beautiful. A period building full of character. It was amazing to get married amongst art and history and culture. The staff, especially Patsy and Kelly, were very attentive and during the ceremony they asked if they could take a photo to put on their website as we were the first same sex wedding they had hosted.” www.theatreroyal.ie

WEDDING ATTIRE Aine wore a shirt, dickie bow, pants and red converse. Jolene wore a complete 1950’s Rocabilly vintage dress. WEDDING RINGS Jolene’s is white gold to match her engagement ring. Aine’s is 125 years old and belonged to her great great grandmother.

FLOWERS Different colour gerberas CAKE Traditional fruit white wedding cake WEDDIDNG THEME Red and Black vintage MUSIC ’Hallelujah’ by Leonard Cohen and ‘Make You Feel My Love’ by Adele all sang and performed by Eoin O’Meachair and Liam Merriman FIRST DANCE ‘The One’ by Kodaline WHAT DID IT MEAN FOR YOU TO BE ABLE TO MARRY THE LOVE OF YOUR LIFE? Jolene is elated to have married the girl

of her dreams. “I grew up in foster care and never thought I would find my soul mate who would become the best friend I ever had.”

THE TEAM PHOTOGRAPHER Paddy Tubritt Photography VIDEOGRAPHER Joan Tubritt HAIR The Sculpting Studio MAKE UP Make up by Aura Beauty WHO OFFICIATED THE MARRIAGE? Margaret Farrell ENTERTAINMENT Liam Merriman and Eoin O Meachair

re St o O nl in e N ew

29 29

Irelandâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s leading goldsmiths since 1980.

Visit our shop at Ballycasey Craft & Design Centre where you will find a warm welcome & beautiful jewellery.

how to choose the right dress for your bridesmaids! By Michaela Keating

Assuming that you are having female bridesmaids then this column can act as a guide to help you choose the right dress for the right shaped person. Some of you brides may be choosing your best male friends as your ‘bridesmen’ and in future issues of Irish LGBT Weddings we will help you dress them but for now it’s all about the ladies! Choosing your bridesmaids dresses can be just as exciting as choosing your bridesmaids. As women come in all shapes and sizes, making sure your gal pals are comfortable on your wedding day is a must. We have put together some guidelines based on dressing for all different body shapes to help you choose wisely for the bridal party. 1. Apple Apple shaped ladies carry their weight above the hips and broaden around the shoulders. Choosing dresses with an empire waistline will be super flattering for apple shapes and will give the illusion of a smaller waist. Choosing good support in the bust area is essential for comfort too. Make like Drew Barrymore or Jessica Simpson and elongate the torso with V necklines and or dare to show a bit more skin with a slit up the leg.

2. Pear Pear shapes have hips wider than their shoulders with a small waist and a well rounded bum. Creating an illusion of balance in the body and owning your curves is essential for the pears by wearing strapless dresses to show off the arms and even out proportions. A cowl or sweetheart neckline and pointed toe shoes to elongate the leg like the queen of the booty, J Lo! 3. Hourglass Always the desired shape, the lucky hourglass ladies have the curves for fitted dresses and belts to accentuate that small waist. Good support in the bust area is necessary and try to avoid anything floaty or baggy as it will give the illusion of weight that isn’t there. Make use of the curves tastefully like Beyonce by wearing a figure hugging dress without going overboard.

4. Rectangle This shape is typically athletic with the shoulders, waist and hips being the same width. Your best assets are your arms and legs so make the most of them with strapless dresses or short dresses to show off those amazing pins. Avoid overwhelming styles that will swallow your shape and make use of waist enhancing styles to accentuate the slender figure like the fabulous Natalie Portman. Whether you’re having a large bridal party or one main lady by your side on your big day, sit down with them before hand and get an idea of what they like and what they are aware will or will not suit their body shape.

Many bridal party suppliers provide bridesmaids dresses in one colour in different shapes and styles, which will make matching the dress to the body shape that little bit easier. It is your big day, so what more could you ask for than being comfortable and looking fabulous with your besties? (Aside from the new husband or wife, of course!)

Cake-spiration! Wedding planner Kate Deegan has us drooling over these fabulous cake ideas for your big day! While your wedding cake might not be top of your to-do list, it’s still one of the important aspects of your day to mark the occasion. Thankfully the lead time for cakes is nothing like that for your wedding dress or tailored suit, but it’s a good idea to have an idea in mind about how you want the cake to look. Do make sure you go and actually try the cake, that’s the fun part, so that it ends up tasting as good as it looks! There’s nothing worse than a cake that looks sensational, but tastes like sawdust. This season cakes trends have continued to evolve and couples 2015 are going for a range of cakes from show stopping to the more understated. Whichever suits your personality; I’ve put together a rundown of some of the more popular cake trends this season which should give you some great ‘cake-spiration. ’

Over The Rainbow

Floral cakes Florals and cakes go together like peanut butter and jelly, but apart from adding fondant flowers, this season edible flowers have become a really popular embellishment for cakes. It’s a trend that can easily be adapted for any season, so choose an edible flower that’s reflective of the time of year. It really channels that secret garden vibe and would be ideal for big or small cakes.

If you’re desperate to get some colour into your wedding, but are finding it difficult to achieve, then a rainbow cake may be for you. They don’t necessarily have to be huge creations, but they are an ideal way to go for bright colours you might otherwise be afraid to use in your décor or bridal party attire. The idea of the hidden rainbow centre is another really fun twist to consider.

Metallic cakes

Painted cakes If you want your cake to feel really personal, then this season’s trend for hand painted cakes is ideal. Think about everything from florals to landscapes, favourite landmarks, to inspirational quotes and watercolours. The sky is the limit with this one and it makes for a truly unique cake. Chat with your cake maker to decide the best method of design for what you have in mind.

Metallic cakes are a big trend this year, but if the idea of metallic’s fills you with notions of dread, then take a deep breath because believe or not, they don’t have to be outlandish. In fact, this season’s metallic cakes have an understated elegance, with just subtle hints of metallic in shades of rose gold being very popular. Of course if you are a bling lover they can be ramped up to the max with golds, glitter and sparkles being added!

Kate Deegan Co-ordination Made Easy Ashfield house Ennis Co. Clare Ireland Tel: +353 (0)65 68 33853 / +353 (0) 86 8220 300 email: info@co-me.net Web: www.co-me.net

Puppy Love L E A D S T O FA I R Y ’ T A I L ’ D AY John Dunning & Wayne Price 4th September 2015

Castleknock Hotel and Country Club

PRIDE & JOY

Photos courtesy of John Delaney Photography

John Dunning and Wayne Price began their love story in cyber space two years ago. John is from Dublin and Wayne is from Kildare. John owns a courier company called Super Couriers. The couples’ two ‘children’ Butch, a boxer and Odin, a great dane (their dogs) are their pride and joy. John and Wayne met online in March 2013. After three failed attempts, they finally met in person. “John stood me up three times and we still got together as I knew there was something there from talking constantly to him and look where we are now,” recalls Wayne with a twinkle in his eye.

After almost a year of dating, John decided it was time to pop the question. “I proposed to Wayne on Christmas morning 2013 down by the River Liffey while out for a walk. I made Wayne climb a wall and he didn’t know what was going on as he has a fear of water and can’t swim. If he said no he was going in! There were two swans on the weir as I got down on one knee and proposed. I was so nervous.”

Being a traditional man Wayne was elated to know that John asked his parents’ permission beforehand. It wasn’t long before the date was set for September 4, 2015. The wedding took place at the Castleknock Hotel and Country Club accompanied by 160 of their friends and family. John’s best friend Dave Sutton was his bestman and his 14 year old brother, Alex, was groomsman. Wayne had his brother Thomas Price as his bestman and his best friend Damien Bawn was his groomsman. John and Wayne were suited and booted on the day in blue French Connection suits from Moss Bro’s in Liffey Valley. The soon to be husbands got a fresh haircut and towel shave to complete their wedding day look. The bestmen and groomsmen wore grey suits with royal blue ties also from Moss Bro’s The pair had personalised wedding rings. Wayne designed his own and John, untraditionally, will have his ring inked on his left hand. “We got our rings from Smooch Wedding Rings who called to the house so I could design my own ring.” John has yet to get his permanent wedding band tattooed on. “I am getting a tattooed ring but for the time being I just got a ring that Wayne will put on his chain when I get it done.”

PERSONAL TOUCHES The rings weren’t the only personal touch to the day for Wayne and John. For the lads, the day wouldn’t be complete without the presence of their dogs. “We had our dogs in full suits made by Barbara in Patches Alterations.” Their cake was also an ode to their favourite pooches! “We had a six tier cake with different flavours for each layer and 50 red velvet cup cakes made by Creative Cakes in Blanchardstown with dog paws going up the sides. We got a cake topper of ourselves and the dogs in suits for the top.” The boys’ mothers walking them up the aisle was also a meaningful moment for the grooms. Sadly, Wayne’s dad was not present and his son paid tribute to him on the day. “I had a remembrance candle lit for my dad and a few words said by Mary Losty at the start of the ceremony as I lost my father in October the day after he booked his flights to come home for the wedding.”

Castleknock Hotel organised the flowers for the wedding reception. The seven button holes for the men and four dress corsages and four bouquets for the ladies of the families were done by Ann from Fleming Florist in Naas. It was John’s uncle who captured the moments of their special day. “Our photographer was John Delaney from Kilkenny who is my uncle and a professional wedding photographer. I’m not being bias when I say he is amazing, the proof is in the pudding! John is such a nice guy he made us laugh and relaxed so much we didn’t realise there were so many photos taken. Both Wayne and I don’t like the camera or the camera doesn’t like us! Either way the photos turned out amazing and in both of our opinion’s it was down to John.” The lads also commend their videographer, Richard Gill, for his non intrusive style on the day. John and Wayne had a humanist ceremony. “The ceremony was done by Mary Losty a humanist. We also had a sand ceremony. Mary was brilliant, she really made us feel relaxed and from what we gather from our guests she made it very intimate and personnel to everyone not just the wedding party.”

Wayne also added his own personal touch to the day. “I got two pictures framed; one of a caricature picture of us and the other of a story about a high profile wedding of us. I also had baskets I made up for the male and female bathrooms of bits and pieces that guests would need on the night.”

THE SURPRISES

Never to do anything by halves, the boys made an extravagant entrance by helicopter to meet their awaiting guests. There was no shortage of entertainment throughout the day from there, as the pair organised fire breathers on arrival and Jack Wise magician and ventriloquist performed. “We had balloon pillars and exploding balloons for over the dance floor for the first dance made by Ab Fab Balloons. People thought they were just fantastic and we also had a chocolate and champagne fountain from Claudine in Chocolatefountain.com. The evening ended with a fabulous fireworks display from Emerald Fire Works.

FAVOURITE MEMORIES With so much going on, what was their favourite memories? “Mine would be the dogs arriving in their suits and the fireworks and marrying Wayne of course.”John shared. For Wayne, it was another mixed bag of favourite memories from his wedding day. “I’d have to say the whole day from start to finish. Arriving by helicopter, a really intimate ceremony, tears were flowing from the guests. And when Jack Wise arrived everyone could not stop talking about how fantastic he was. The fireworks at the end just topped it off.”

THE EXTRAS There were plenty of treats in store for the guests all throughout the day, with sweet bags for the kids and €3 euro millions quick pick for the adults. They also had 20 disposable cameras on the tables. Post wedding, Wayne and John honeymooned for a day in Rome and then set off on a cruise to see countries such as Italy, France and Spain and then back to Rome for five more days.

“People kept saying that the day flies by and it’s not until you’re getting married that you realise that’s true. Our wedding was raved about. Couldn’t get over how people felt. Never have I seen a day go so quick in all my life. John and I would take five minute breathers to sit and chat and take it all in. Then go again. I’d advise everyone to try this and just enjoy it all.” After the yes vote to marriage equality in May of this year, what does being able to get married mean to John and Wayne? “It felt so good, that we were able to marry the love of our life just like our brothers and sisters did and to feel what it is like to have the same commitment as everyone else. When it was going on you feel so different and when it’s done the connection is felt more than you could imagine.”

ADVICE

How to add the

personal touches By Michaela Keating

to your wedding day

Personal stamp

Every wedding is personal to the couple getting married. There are plenty of personal touches that can help you make your wedding original so we’re here to give you a few ideas.

Here’s our favourites!

Embroidery

When Angelina Jolie tied the knot to Brad Pitt in an intimate French ceremony in 2014, she wowed in a Versace wedding dress and a silk veil that was embroidered with drawings by her children and ever since, embroidery has become a major trend in bridal wear. The wedding date, meaningful images, favourite quotes and names of children have been lining the hem of wedding dresses and suit jackets in the past year. This stunning detailing can allow you to cherish special moments on your garments when getting married. Embroidered invitations are also super current in wedding stationary. These are especially suited to vintage or romantically themed weddings. The various styles of stitches and designs that can be achieved through embroidery will ensure that your invites are more like keepsakes for your guests. Get creative and work with your wedding invitation designer to select a design and look that they can work with.

Create your own personal stamp when sending out your wedding invites. Include your initials or an image that you like at the top of your invite. Your invitation designer may be able to help you to create your very own stamp.

Shoes Add the personal touch to the sole of your wedding shoes by adding the wedding date underneath, perfect if you’re not sure about embroidering the dress or your suit. This is not only a nice memento, but can also add to your wedding photos on the day.

Personalised seating plan As it can be quite time consuming, personalising the seating plan with images of your guests may be more suited to smaller intimate weddings. Print off some of their most hilarious Facebook pictures or drag out the old debs album and guide your guests to their seat with a throwback picture of themselves.

Childhood pictures

Embarrassing stories from your past are sure to be dragged up by your friends, so why not beat them to the punch! Add old photographs of you and your other half from childhood to adulthood down the aisle, leading to the day you met each other. Looking back at your dodgy bob haircut or your partners’ velvet tracksuit from your younger years will give your guests a giggle.

Love letters It’s a hot trend right now, Love letters. Get Mr and Mr or Mrs and Mrs as a back drop to your big day or you can even hire enough letters to spell your name. They make for amazing backdrops for your photos.

Table numbers Why not ditch the boring old one, two, threes and use table numbers to add pieces to the puzzle of your relationship. If you’ve known each other ten years, have visited 26 states in America or have eaten 1,000 Chinese take-a way’s together put it on the table! The guests will learn something new about your relationship with these quirky facts and figures.

Photo courtesy of Lovin Letters

Steeped in history and character

Longueville House Hotel is a very warm, unpretentious and inviting 18th-Century Listed Georgian Boutique Country House Hotel. It is secluded amid a picturesque and private 500-acre wooded estate, working farm and gardens in The Blackwater Valley, Cork South West Ireland. Be it a small wedding, an outdoor wedding, a civil wedding, a same sex wedding, an intimate wedding, an historic wedding location, wedding venues with a view or simply a party venue, look no further. Longueville House has been approved to host civil marriage ceremonies within the property along with Humanist and Spiritual ceremonies. This means that we can host your wedding and reception in the same exquisite venue, with no complicated logistical upheavals for your wedding guests.

At Longueville we cater to wedding parties from 80 Guests to 138 Guests.

There are up to 20 Guest Bedrooms available for exclusive rental for you and your family and friends to enjoy, accommodating in total 38/44 wedding guests in-house. One of the greatest rewards of staying at Longueville House Hotel is the care and attention our personnel provide to guests under the watchful eye of William & Aisling O’Callaghan, your hosts. William O’Callaghan Chef Patron personally oversees the kitchen and is blessed with the fact that Longueville is almost completely self-sufficient and boasts one of the best restaurants in Cork. Seasonal vegetables, fruit and herbs from our walled garden, fresh river salmon, Longueville Lamb and Woodland Pork from our farm - even our bottles of artisan cider, apple brandy, garden berry liqueur come from the estate!

Dining arrangements are in The Turner Conservatory (seats max 80 guests), The Presidents’ Restaurant (seats max 38 guests), and The Library (seats max 16 guests) and these three rooms while separate spaces are all interconnected via doorways. Therefore guests should not feel isolated from the bridal party. On the days and evenings before or after your wedding reception, we can pre-organise an informal hog roast, court yard barbeque (weather permitting), picnic outdoors or full formal dinner in any one of our pre-booked private dining areas.

Killarney Road, Mallow, Co. Cork

Tel: +353 (0)22 47156 Email: info@longuevillehouse.ie

www.longuevillehouse.ie

Although the house itself is a traditional Georgian Manor House, our wedding co-ordinator at Longueville can help you plan your wedding day to make it as formal, traditional, bohemian, contemporary or relaxed as you wish. You may consider hosting your wedding in a garden for that intimate wedding vibe, an apple orchard, a stone court yard, in rolling park lands or on a river bank. The options are endless!

A Forever

KIND OF THING Lisa & MyLinda Hogan 1st May 2015

Truman State Park, Iowa, USA

PRIDE & JOY

Photos courtesy of Rose Lee Photography

By Lisa Hogan My name is Lisa Hogan. I come from a small town in north Tipperary called Roscrea. I recently got married to my partner in America on May 1st. We wanted to wait and see how the referendum went here but we didn’t want to leave it to chance. Now thanks to the result on May 23, I will get to call her my wife. Her name is MyLinda Hogan (she took my name). We met online two years ago. It wasn’t long till we fell in love. She is an American and will soon be joining me to live here once the visa comes through. We are now seen as equal in my home country and for that I am proud and humbled to be Irish.

The Meet

We first met in June of 2013 online on a chat site. That night I had seen MyLinda’s picture beside her chat name and I thought she was cute so I messaged her to say “hi”. Apparently my charm and humour won her over because she was just about to log out. We chatted for over two hours that night but it honestly felt like five minutes, but sleep deprivation and the time difference took its toll on me and under the insistence of MyLinda I went to bed.

My Dating Process

MyLinda lives in a small town in Missouri, USA, called Warsaw. Ireland is six hours ahead of her local time. We talked on and off for a week or so via the chat site which eventually lead to a Skype call. We talked and laughed for eight straight hours, by the end of the call MyLinda said that she wanted me to be her girlfriend. So we set up a Skype date, with a movie and popcorn, we hit play and the same time and had our first movie Skype date. For the next few months this is how our free time would be spent Skype dates, hanging out, talking about everything and nothing and at the same time getting to know every little thing about each other. We fell in love; we had everything we needed in a girlfriend except the physical touch. Every night before I would turn in for bed I would pull up Skype and MyLinda would lay with me till I fell asleep so I wouldn’t fall asleep on my own or feel alone, we still do this every night. In March of 2014 we finally arranged to meet in person. I’m not going to lie, the first time we met it was a little weird. We had this somewhat awkward hug and we collected my baggage. After an hour in each other’s company it was like we had known each other all our lives. For the first time I could reach out and touch her and vice versa. Sparks flew, an energy I had never felt before and I knew. We knew it was a forever kind of thing. It’s a love story with a lot of twists and a lot of distance. People say long distance relationships don’t work but they do, all you need is trust, hope and love. Even now in married life, we live in two separate countries, 6000 miles away and we are making it work, we have a few more small obstacles but we know that it will all be eventually worth it, we are almost there.

Our First Date Can you count a photo shoot as

our first date? I do. It was the day after I arrived in March 2014 and we had arranged to have a couple photo shoot with a very talented photographer called Rosi Buretz. She was amazing; she made us feel at ease. For the first time since we met I got to hang out with this amazing woman, hold her hand all day (except when I was “apparently” jay walking to which I promptly pointed out that this is how the Irish cross the street). All that day I would regularly pinch myself and sometimes MyLinda to make sure I wasn’t dreaming, that she was real and that I really was this lucky.

When did we know we were meant to be? Probably the first night we met in person. I

remember that after we got home from the airport I was sitting on her couch in the living room and she knelt down in front of me, took my face in her hands and kissed me. It felt right that this is the way it should always have been.

The Proposal One night after she finished work

(MyLinda), she came home and handed me a Samsung box and told me it was a phone for me while I was in the States so I could get in contact with her and my family back home if I wanted to. When I opened it, it was empty except for a small black box. She told me to open it and that was empty too but when I looked back up she was on one knee asking me to be her wife.

The Wedding We married in Iowa on May 1. We

picked Iowa because Ireland recognises same sex marriages and civil partnerships from this state. We got married in the county court house with two witnesses present. The following day we held our own ceremony in the Truman State Park with family and friends. It was a small intimate ceremony with about 15 guests. The theme was a rainbow theme and I walked down the aisle to the song ‘How Long Will I Love You’ by Ellie Goulding. We danced our first dance to Mary Lambert’s ‘She Keeps Me Warm’.

The Irish Celebrations When MyLinda moves to Ireland we plan on having an afters celebration with my family and friends. I have the best friends I could ever ask for; the Eliza lodge crew, where I work as a carer. They have supported me so much on my journey along with my incredibly understanding boss Kay. There are no words can describe what my family do for me on a daily basis, they keep my spirits up when the distance gets too much and celebrated the referendum with elation. The truth is without the support and love of my Mam, Dad, sisters and brothers I would not be the person I am today. They shaped who I am and MyLinda will most definitely create and love the person I want to become. The after party will be a band, good fun and dancing till we can dance no more. It’s a way for my family and friends to welcome my beautiful wife into the family and to wish us the best for the future. A Message to my Beautiful Wife MyLinda when we first met I never imagined the journey our love would take us on. I never believed in soul mates but here I am 6000 miles away from you after saying ‘I do’. You are my best friend, my lover, my soul mate; the mere mention of your name brings a smile to my face. But most importantly you are the love of my life, the only woman I have ever loved and the only woman I will ever love. You make me happier than I could have ever thought possible and more loved than I ever imagined. You make me a better person, our love reflects the way I live my life, always smiling always feeling needed and wanted. I always thought God was too busy to worry about me and my happiness, that he had so many other people that needed him more than me. But he found the time to send me you and for that I am truly grateful and blessed. I love you MyLinda I can’t wait to start forever with you.

THE CLARION HOTEL, SLIGO

A stunning historic landmark boasting modern conveniences while overlooking the majestic Benbulben Mountains-what more can you ask for!

wedding packages from

â&#x201A;Ź39

per person

Clarion Hotel, Clarion Road, Sligo Phone: 071 911 9003 Email: cnicholson@clarionhotelsligo.com

www.clarionhotelsligo.com

25 FOR PLANNING TIPS

Mental organisation Make sure you both know what you want for every aspect of your wedding.

Good directions If the wedding location is out of the way, make sure to provide detailed and clear directions to your guests. You don’t want anyone getting lost and turning up late or not at all! Be savvy and provide sat nav names and codes for your guests with a bad sense of direction!

Keep note of everything Make sure to keep track of everything you have sorted out and everything you don’t. This will keep you from getting snowed under with wedding arrangements when you’re making time for other day to day activities.

Meal plan Think of all your guests’ dietary requirements when choosing the meal. Make sure there is a choice to suit all taste palettes to avoid people ordering off the menu and creating hassle with the venue.

7. 3.

Be realistic Think realistically of what you can actually have and what you want. There could be some things that you want that may not actually be possible with your budget or location.

Fashion advice If you would like help choosing the perfect outfits for your big day, decide who knows your style and what suits you best. Bring your partner with you if you would feel more comfortable with them or choose someone whose opinion that you value and can trust. This will help you find the wedding attire of your dreams.

Schedule your planning Make sure to give yourselves enough time to schedule everything. Allocate enough time as some aspects might require more time to organise than others. For example, make sure that your venue is secured before you go booking a cake maker.

adult-only affair. Your guests will understand. If you are allowing kids it may be a good idea to provide entertainment for an hour or so or organise with your venue to book a babysitter so your guests can enjoy their night.

Think of your guests It may be you and your partners day, but making sure your nearest and dearest are happy is all part of the process. Think of the majority of people when planning the meal etc., but go the extra mile for people that may not be as easy to cater for.

10. Put the weather/season

into consideration If you guys are planning on having your reception or any part of your day outdoors you’ll need to take into consideration the time of the year you’re having the wedding and what weather is expected during that time. This is Ireland after all!

Kids or not? Make a decision This can either be a no-brainer or a deal breaker for many couple planning their wedding. If you are not allowing children, politely and clearly state in the invite that it’s an

11. Let people suggest

things/vendors If people want to suggest little fun bits to have, or any good vendors, let them! Good advice can be hard to come by so take as much as you can from your friends. It doesn’t mean you have to use their advice.

YOUR WEDDING guest list is going to cost Do the math and work out how many guests you both can afford to invite. If you have too many on your lists you’ll have to cut some people out.

13. Manage the bar Have a

word with your venue to make sure that there is enough bar staff on the night. If you have a crowd of hard- partiers at the reception keep the drinks flowing and enjoy dancing the night away.

17. Plan your budget before

anything else Make sure you know how much money you’re willing to spend on each part of your day before you start booking anything.

organised for the night It’s vital to keep the good vibes going at your wedding so whether you book a comedian, band or DJ for the night make sure they are good at what they do and look into all your options.

sure you will both have time in your day to fit in everything that you want to.

20. Give all professionals aside Make sure you keep some money aside to have on the day, in case of any unexpected extra costs.

15. Not everyone will come/

be able to come. Not everyone will be able to make it, so don’t be disappointed or upset if you get a few “no”s.

16. Prioritise the guest list If

you need to take some people off the list, make sure you don’t cut out the most important people.

with other single people Do some matchmaking, make it fun! 23% of couples meet at weddings now!

18. Have entertainment

19. Time management Make

14. Leave some money

22. Seat your single friends

your numbers for emergencies You just never know what will come up, so make sure that everyone has a way to contact you or your partner if they need to.

23. Send out invitations early Make sure that everyone knows well in advance.

12. Think of how much your

24. Don’t be afraid to ask for

help If someone wants to help, let them. This will reduce some of the stress. After all it is your day, so the lead up should be just as fun!

21. Reserve rooms for guests at a discount if you can Check if the hotel or venue will give you a discount if you reserve rooms on your guests’ behalves.

25. Consult each other on

everything This is a partnership you are both entering for life. It’s important to consult each other on all aspects of your wedding. After all you’re both doing this together.

Choosing Your Wedding Music: Reflection and Intention By Dr Richard Hayes In planning the music for a nondenominational wedding ceremony, for some couples, there may be too much choice and too little guidance. This freedom should, however, be welcomed as an opportunity to make your ceremony unique and yours, as opposed to seeing it as a bigger mountain to climb. In the twelve years that I’ve been planning wedding music with couples, one phrase has been repeated time and time again; “that was much easier than I thought it would be.” Hopefully the following considerations and advice will make your choice a little easier.

One of the purposes of having music at your wedding ceremony is to create an atmosphere that fits your occasion. Consequently, it is important that you consider the atmosphere you wish to create. One of the first considerations in this is your choice of singer and genre. Singers can be incredibly flexible with genre and songs but it is important to bear in mind that there is a distinct difference in tone and timbre between a classically trained singer, a folk singer and a sean-nós singer. Most singers will have samples on their websites and so I’d advise you to listen to these tracks, close your eyes and ask, “Is this the sound that I want accompanying my big day?” In terms of accompanying instruments and musicians, your singer should be able to help you with choosing these. Your singer will probably have a list of musicians that they know and trust. Although your singer might advise certain accompanying instruments, you should feel free to suggest alternatives. On this, Youtube can prove an invaluable resource. For example, from my experience singing and playing the harp at wedding ceremonies I know that harp, flute and cello make a stunning backdrop and musical tapestry. With that said, however, couples have, after research on Youtube, suggested other instrument combinations to me that sounded equally as beautiful at their respective ceremonies. For some couples, choosing the songs is the most difficult part of planning their ceremony. My advice to all couples that find themselves in this position is as follows: Your wedding ceremony should be about you and your future husband/wife, and the music that you choose should be representative of you both. In approaching any couple I always suggest that they reflect upon lyrics that have meant something to them, collectively and/or individually. The reason that couples select specific readings and poems for their wedding is because of the words and sentiments that those contain and express. The music that you select should, partly, be for the same reasons. Words have the power to uplift and liberate as well as soothe and comfort, and we have all been in a place where the words of a song, which we have sung for many years, suddenly mean much more. Your wedding ceremony, like your relationship, is a journey and the music that you choose should provide a soundtrack to that expedition. The music can chart your journey’s beginning together and the many physical and emotional roads and avenues that you have ventured down just as it can those streets and paths that you see in your future. Thus, one way to think of the music that you would like at your wedding is to view it as both reflection and intention; capturing where you both have come from as well as expressing your desires for the voyage ahead. With that in mind, it is important to remember what you want from your music. Weddings, undoubtedly, create a bubble of joy and ecstasy but they also generate a space for contemplation and reflection and your wedding music provides an accompaniment to all of this. Thus, the songs– both melody and lyrics– should reflect what you want from your wedding ceremony. Do you want people to be caught up in the joy and buzz of the circumstance and ceremony? Do you want music that provokes thought and evokes emotion? Or do you want both? Regardless of which you choose, the curnel of your music choice should never be lost: you are there to celebrate the love of two people, the winds that have brought you here and those that will lead you onwards. Your wedding is unique to you both and so your music should be too. Dr Richard Hayes info@richardhayes.ie 085 131 9720 www.richardhayes.ie

The best and most beautiful things in the world cannot be seen or even touched. They must be felt with the heart.

Helen Keller

Beauty | Hidden | Historic | Elegant

Boyne Hill House Estate Phone 046 903-1247 or email us on info@boynehillhouse.ie

w w w. b o y n e h i l l h o u s e . i e

Exclusively yours...

Arguments

All engaged couples must have

The stresses and strains of the big day can sometimes cause a little friction with your loved one from time to time. It’s okay if you have a few tiffs or dare we say heated debates over the certain elements of the wedding in the lead up to it. There isn’t a couple out there that haven’t had an argument over elements of the wedding, so don’t feel alone. We have compiled a list of arguments you are possibly going to have in the next year or two so relax and be prepared for them.

1. Money

his is the argument that every single engaged couple in the world is going to have. You want to spend a lot of money on the venue; they want to spend a lot of the money on a photographer or vice versa. Whatever the situation, this argument is definitely going to happen. The best way to deal with this, like most arguments, is to compromise. Take whatever amount of money it is and split it down the middle, half and half. This way you both get an equal share to spend on whatever specific aspect you want

2. Family

nother common argument. One of you (or both) keep adding to the guest list without thinking about the cost of it all. You may need to sit down and sort out the guest list to accommodate your budget, even if it means crossing a lot of guests off the list.

3. Your pasts

ometime before the wedding, there is likely going to be some sort of an argument about something or someone that happened in one of or both of your pasts. It’s best to get this one out of the way before you’re married so that there’s no bad blood heading into your married life.

4. Location

he location of the wedding can mean a lot to you and your partner. But if you and your partner both want the wedding in different places then this can lead to a lot of heated discussions. If you both want it in a place that’s special and meaningful to your childhoods for example, and they happen to be different places, then you will have to compromise and come up with some solution. This could also happen if your partner is originally from somewhere abroad and wants the ceremony in their home country so that all of their family can be there.

5. Bridezilla/Groomzilla

ou mightn’t realise how you’re acting leading up to the wedding, but your partner probably will. If you’re acting like a Bridezilla or Groomzilla, this can cause some arguments between you two. If your partner pulls you on your behaviour, try to tone it down a bit and consider their feelings two. It’s their wedding too, so when things get too stressful, take some time out of your wedding planning and spend some quality time with your partner instead.

6. Other people

edding planning can be stressful enough and when family and friends over step the mark it can cause a bit of trouble in paradise. Although they mean well, it’s best to make all decisions yourselves without the influence of a slightly over powering aunt or future sister-in-law. Work together and listen to each other’s ideas and remember that it should a special day, not a stressful one!

A Real Case O F ‘ LOV E AT F I R S T S I G H T ‘ Connie Lynch & Sinead Murray 20th August 2015

Millpark Hotel, Co. Donegal

PRIDE & JOY

Photos courtesy Louise Lynch Photography

By Michaela Keating For Connie Lynch and Sinead Murray, the old adage ‘love at first sight’ certainly rang true when the pair met at an LGBT adult group in 2010. Sinead, a Letterkenny native first laid eyes on Connie, also from Letterkenny, when she was facilitating a meeting at an LGBT adult group. That night Sinead fell head over heels for the marketing co-ordinator at Lough Eske Castle Hotel. Sinead recalls, “If I’m being honest I couldn’t even look at her as I could feel my face going red,” a sure sign the butterflies were fluttering. But Sinead didn’t need to worry as the feelings were very mutual. Connie admits she “nearly fainted” when she first saw Sinead.

After such chemistry at the meeting, it’s no surprise that the ladies began dating. They are both now living in Letterkenny with their daughter Blaithin. Two years later, the girls decided that a wedding was on the cards but it was Sinead that sparked the conversation. “I knew very early in our relationship that Connie was ‘the one’. I don’t think you could call it a proposal but we were sitting outside in the sun and I told her “I would love to hold your hand forever” and without even thinking I asked “would you like to hold my hand forever?” To which she said “Yes” and there was a moment of what does that mean and a lot of laughter. That was it, but we kept it quiet for a while until we got our promise rings made.” Sure enough, wedding preparations began and the date was set for August 20, 2015 with the ceremony and reception taking place at the Millpark Hotel, Co. Donegal with 280 guests in attendance.

Blaithin Murray and Christopher Murray stood as bridesmaid and bestmale for Sinead and Aine Mc Loughlin and Lee Carlin were honoured to undertake the same roles for Connie. For the girls, this was a dream come true, with personal touches threaded throughout their shabby chic themed day; from Blaithin performing a song during the ceremony, to Sinead’s dad singing a song during his speech. Not only did the personal touches from family and friends add something special to the wedding, the most memorable moment for the girls was seeing each other for the first time on the day. Connie was blown away by her bride,” I almost tried not to look at her because I was trying so hard not to cry at how beautiful she looked.” For Sinead, Connie coming down the aisle was her highlight, along with her mother’s touching contribution to the day. “I had no idea what her (Connie) dress was like and I genuinely could not keep my eyes off her she was just beautiful. My mum read out a poem that she wrote for the day. This would be incredibly out of her comfort zone as she is quite shy and understandably she was really emotional as her only daughter was getting married but I thought it was such a beautiful thing for her to do.”

Tell us about working with Louise Lynch Photography? “From 8.00am in the morning our photographer Louise Lynch was buzzing around. Not only did she have one bride to kindly attend to, she had two. From one end of the Millpark Hotel to the next Louise darted to ensure she captured each hair style, make up application and most importantly the excited nervous moments before hand. Louise did not miss a minute, she was superb to work with and we are delighted to have chosen her as our photographer. Our wedding day can be truly relived for the rest of our lives through the work and art of Louise.” FB - Louise Lynch Photography

After a memorable ceremony, it was time for the girls to enjoy their night with their guests and one moment in particular stood out for the brides.

Connie fondly remembers her bride wheeling her (literally) into their reception. “A highlight was people’s faces when Sinead pushed me into the meal on a wheelbarrow. Sinead was giving it socks dancing and pushing me at the same time. It was hilarious! Also my granny, grandad and great aunt were present and each one of them said it was the nicest, most personal wedding they had ever attended, this, for me, was something really special and will stay with me forever.” Along with the non-conventional mode of transport, the girls were surprised with a gift from three of their friends. “They surprised us by doing a rap mid ceremony about our relationship so far, we nearly fell off our seats laughing.”

After working tirelessly to promote the “Yes” vote back in May, now being able to say they are wife and wife means the world to Connie and Sinead.

“Sinead made me the happiest woman on the planet by becoming my wife, I believe we couldn’t have chosen a better time to get married in Ireland and I believe that the outcome of the referendum made our day even more special and emotional. We are both so proud to be a gay married couple in Ireland today. Looking back on the first day I saw Sinead I never thought I would be lucky enough to marry her. So it was the best day of my life. You could feel the emotion in the room as everyone felt so happy for us because we did fight very hard to get there,” Connie proudly stated. Sinead, who knew Connie was ‘the one’ from their very first date, feels that same level of pride. “We fought so hard to ensure a “Yes” vote in Donegal and it just made the day incredibly special as everyone knew how much we wanted to get married. I wanted to tell Connie in front of all our family and friends that I loved her so much and that I will be committed to her until the end.”

HOTEL, SPA & GOLF RESOR T HOTEL, SPA & GOLF RESOR T

For For Those Those

Special Special Moments Moments Tullow, Co. Carlow, Ireland Tel: +353 59 91 80100 Fax: +353 59 91 52123 Tullow, Co. Carlow, Ireland Tel: +353 59 91 80100 Fax: +353 59 91 52123 Email: info@mountwolseley.ie Web: www.mountwolseley.ie Email: info@mountwolseley.ie Web: www.mountwolseley.ie

Be My V A L E N T I N E Sean Mills & John Gavin 29th August, 2014

Absolute Hotel, Limerick

PRIDE & JOY

Photos courtesy of John McGarry Photography

on the one year anniversary of Sean’s mums passing. The pair wanted to make the day a happy one so they went looking at venues. Sean had written a letter to John asking him to marry him, and went to the jewellers in Shannon to get him a ring for the occasion. DATE OF WEDDING August 29, 2014. WEDDING LOCATION Both ceremony and reception were held at the Absolute Hotel, Limerick. HOW MANY GUESTS? Around 86 WEDDING ATTIRE They both went for three piece suits. Sean’s was a light grey and John’s was navy. To have something to link them, they wore matching ties, cufflinks and pocket squares in light blue. FLOWERS They got their flowers from Lawless Flowers. Sean and John had white roses and their men wore white carnations, the women pink ones.

NEWLYWEDS Sean Mills and John Gavin WHERE DO YOU LIVE NOW? Newport, Co. Tipperary THE MEET Nine years ago on Valentine’s weekend in Limerick THE PROPOSAL Sean and John decided to get married back in July 2012

CAKE They had a two tier cake, bottom tier was Belgian

chocolate biscuit cake and the top tier was chocolate fudge cake. They also had personalised cake toppers that were dressed like them. The cake was made by Confetti Cakes. “The cake was delicious.” PHOTOGRAPHER John McGarry Photography FAVOURITE MEMORIES OF THE DAY John’s niece, Katie Slattery, did a contemporary dance for them to John Legend’s ‘All of Me.’ Also, it was the first time that they got to meet Sean’s niece, Ellis Eleanor Mills, who’s living in England and was born in April. The couple enjoyed being with their friends and family and having them there to share their special day. QUIRKY BITS Sean chose to have an entrance song – ‘How Long Will I Love You?’ by Ellie Goulding and an exit song by Diana Ross ‘I’m Coming Out’ which was very fitting and everybody loved it. VIDEO They showed a video montage of pictures of them both growing up and their lives together organised by Damien Hickey. PERSONAL TOUCHES “I know that speeches get done at weddings but up to the very day of the wedding, John was not too sure if he was doing a speech and what he was going to say! He had hoped to have a few moments to write a few points down but this did not happen. So he winged it and was very funny,” says Sean. Also goodie bags for the children and disposable cameras on the tables. WOULD YOU DO IT ALL AGAIN? “Most definitely,” says Sean. HONEYMOON USA for three weeks. Orlando, Las Vegas, and San Francisco

“With the Yes vote winning, this just shows that love is love regardless of your sexuality. The fact that it was the people who made this happen makes it even more special. A huge thank you to everyone. Myself and John are definitely going to do something to mark this occasion. Maybe wedding part two. The most important thing is to be able to get our marriage certificate and for our marriage to be recognised and that we are all equals.”

THE ABSOLUTE HOTEL URBAN WEDDING VENUE OF THE YEAR 2015

Absolute Hotel Limerick is an award winning venue. Polished from start to finish, the Absolute has packages that are creative yet affordable, food that hits the spot and an attention to detail that will make your wedding slick as you are stylish.

T&C’s apply, subject to availability

Absolute Hotel, Sir Harry’s Mall, Limerick 061-463610 events@absolutehotel.com www.absolutehotel.com Book your viewing with our wedding stylist Yvonne

Packages starting from €39 per person.

Wedding Colour Palettes â&#x20AC;&#x201C;

Technicolour

By Wedding Coordinator Kate Deegan

D raping From ribbons to curtains, to ceiling draping and everything in between, this is a fantastic way to completely change the look and feel of your wedding venue. Think about using a mix of colours and placements. Think about having draping on your venue entrance, or ribbon style draping from the ceiling or above the tables. It can also make for a stunning background for your photos.

B unting , P ompoms & P aper L anterns These are a relatively cheap ways to inject some serious colour and fun into your wedding day. The great thing about these paper accessories is that for the most part you can put them together yourself and if you buy in bulk you make a great saving. They are also super versatile; the sky is the limit in terms of how you use them. Everything from hanging pompoms or lanterns from the ceiling, to using them as mock flowers, to backdrops, to chair dĂŠcor, to stringing up bunting, the possibilities are endless.

Choosing a colour palette for your wedding is the ideal place to start in your preparations and there can be no better palette for creating an incredible impact than a rainbow colour theme. It’s a theme that has become more and more popular in recent years and when you look at some examples, it’s not hard to see why! The stunning effect a selection of carefully placed technicolour props and little touches can completely transform your wedding day into a bright, vivid colourful celebration that is a feast for the eyes and also has such meaning behind these colours together. As a wedding planner with years of experience behind me, I know all the tips and tricks to help bring a rainbow theme to life, whether it be an all out colour-fest, or a few vivid bright pops, I’ve got the insider knowledge to make it happen. Tel: +353 (0)65 68 33853 / +353 (0) 86 8220 300 email: info@co-me.net Web: www.co-me.net

Kate Deegan - Co-ordination Made Easy Ashfield house, Ennis, Co. Clare, Ireland

Table D é cor There’s nothing like walking into a wedding venue and being wowed by some vivid and inspiriting table décor. Everything from bright or contrasting table cloths, china, menus, chair sashes, ribbons and even individual coloured table lighting can make for an incredible impact that will wow your guests.

F ood and D rink If you want to have subtle pops of rainbow colour in your wedding day, then using food and drinks is a really inventive way to do it. Think about having a technicolour wedding cake, macaroons, cupcakes or cake pops for the guests. A pink lemonade station is ideal for a summer wedding. Try out old fashioned cordials with vivid colours. Candy coloured apples and popcorn and of course a sweet station is the ideal way to inject some colour into the day.

F lowers The most straightforward way to inject some technicolour bright colours into your day is with your choice of flowers. From the bouquets, to the flowers on the tables and around the room, you can really have fun with your choices. You can save a bundle by going for multi-coloured mason jars and single rainbow posies on the tables too!

EDITORIAL

ASK THE EXPERT Gerard and Cliona of Mackey Coaches

Mackey Coaches – Coach and Limousine Hire Where you are located? East Cork Do you travel nationwide or if not what is your remit? We travel nationwide with all our clients.

Dream Wedding at

Kilshane House,Tipperary Spectacular Kilshane House, in the heart of County Tipperary, is exclusively yours for the wedding of your dreams. The Orangerie, which has a full bar at one end and dance floor at the other, holds 220 guests comfortably in a fine dining manner. The delicious six course wedding dinner is prepared by the resident head chef and his team. The Conservatory can seat 100+ for a barbecue the day after the wedding. There are 54 bedrooms en-suite and 320 acres of parkland to explore. Only the guests you invite are present. Unforgettable wedding ceremonies can take place indoors or outdoors in the Conservatory, gardens, or on the lake. All inclusive wedding packages are designed to celebrate your special day and the season in which it takes place with no hidden extras. Come see for yourself how unique we are ! See www.kilshanehouse.ie Contact : Ruth, Tess, or Laura at +353 62 82444 or email: info@kilshanehouse.ie

Tell us a little bit about the business? A family run business for over 40 years, now operated by Gerard and Cliona. Specialising in providing top class vehicles; from cars to coaches and vintage, modern or stretch vehicles. All clients’ needs and requests are looked after personally by either Gerard or Cliona. We pride ourselves on the fantastic professionalism of all of our chauffeurs and take pleasure in supplying quality vehicles. What is unique about your business? Our business offers personal attention to the highest detail. We aim to provide the client with exactly what they need and go beyond that again. All chauffeurs are appropriately attired. Lady Chauffeurs, when required, may be provided. We excel in understanding a client’s request and want each client to know how important they are to us. Our uniqueness is the length of time we have been in the transport industry; the amount of experience we have between us provides an excellent service every time. What kind of cars do you provide for weddings? We have vintage replica cars and buses, modern cars and coaches and of course stretch limousines. Our aim is to add a different or quirky vehicle to our fleet each year. This prevents stagnancy and provides our clients with unusual choices! We also like to receive feedback from our clients as to what vehicle they Would like us to have! It is important to us to listen to all customers’ needs. Do you have a large fleet to choose from? Yes, we do and we are constantly expanding. The chauffeur car part of the fleet is still only two years old and together with our coaches, over 40 years in existence, we are able to provide our clients with their choice of vehicles. Any extra touches? We offer personalised number plates to mark a wedding day. Champagne, water, tissues, ivory/white ribbons; anything to help make the clients’ occasion perfect! Whatever you need, just ask. Anything else you would like to add? We recently launched a vintage minibus to the fleet! It is such an unusual vehicle and will make any wedding the talk of the town! Clients expect the best in everything they purchase and when it comes to Passenger Transport, be it weddings, corporate or otherwise; we provide it! We go that extra mile! Call us when only the best will do! Contact info: Tel 021-4668334, 086-2529136, 086-8346756 Web www.mackeycoaches.ie E-mail mackeycoaches@gmail.com

Blacktie Magician

Blacktiemagician

Phone: 083 1733379 61

Contact: info@blacktiemagician.com

“David you made our night. Your talent, sense of humour and showmanship kept us all entertained. Thank you so much!” Irene O’Mahony “Just want to thank you so much for your show at my wedding. My guests have not stopped talking about you. I will be recommending you in the future.” Ger Nolan “I was mesmerised with your professionalism , your absolute genius at your work was fantastic and no doubt you will make it to the top in your business.” John Devane.

Resident Magician for a Year at the Jasmine Palace Group

www.blacktiemagician.com

EDITORIAL

QUESTIONS TO ASK YOUR SUPPLIERS

Weddings at

Boyne Hill Estate

Exclusive to you

Boyne Hill House Estate has been described as a ‘hidden gem’, and is one of the most romantic destinations for weddings, civil partnerships, and exclusive events. What makes Boyne Hill House Estate stand out is the attention to detail that is put into every special occasion, along with the beauty and tranquillity of its location. Catering for up to 150 guests and with 42 guestrooms it is perfect for any exclusive event, including weddings, civil partnership, and party celebrations. Taking over a private country house estate for your special occasion is very unique, and offers each couple the opportunity to express their personality and host a celebration that will be forever remembered. This luxury Georgian Estate is located in the heart of Co. Meath; just 35 minutes from Dublin in the tranquil countryside of Navan, Co. Meath, The estate is concealed seductively on 38 acres of idyllic private parkland with woodland views and overlooking the stunning River Boyne. The Secret walled garden and tree lined driveway creates the perfect setting for your wedding from the moment you arrive. The Secret Garden is the perfect backdrop for a civil ceremony and the Boyne View Suite offers a unique wedding reception offering exceptional high standards in both food and service. Boyne Hill House Estate boasts 43 guestrooms onsite. The Mansion House dating back to the 1700’s is reserved for family and bridal party and the courtyard mews in reserved for guests. All rooms are ensuite and include family rooms. Special rates are offered to couples and include Bed and late Breakfast. Boyne Hill House Estate is a venue that will take your breath away. With stunning grounds, a dedicated team to look after your every wish and an estate that is exclusively yours. The estate is the perfect backdrop for everlasting memories and deserves its reputation as one of the most exclusive private wedding venues in Ireland.

Your Entertainer

How long will they play for? Do they need a meal on the day? Do they have a versatile playlist? How long do they take to set up? How much space will they need? Do they have a demo CD?

Your Florist

How far will they travel? Do they have any examples to show you? How experienced are they? Is there an extra cost for breakages? When will they want to be paid? Will the person you’ve talked to actually do the flowers themselves?

Your Venue

Will there be other weddings on the same day? Will your wedding party be offered accommodation discounts? Is it close to your ceremony venue? Is it easy to find? Will you be allowed to move furniture around? Is the price within your budget? Would you be allowed to have a late bar and how much if so?

Your Photographer

How long will they stay for? How much experience do they have with weddings? When will you get your pictures? Will they post an online gallery? How do their fees work out? When will they want to be paid? How many pictures will they take? Will they visit the venue beforehand?

Your Cake Maker

Can they show you examples of their work? When will they want to be paid? Can you sample their cakes before ordering one? Can you have mixed-flavoured layers? Will they come to the venue to assemble the cake on the day?

Your Dressmaker/Boutique

How long do you need to order your dress? How long will your appointment be? How many people can you bring with you? Is there a limit to how many dresses you can try on? How much will alterations cost? What will you need to bring? How many fittings will you have?

Suit Shop/ Tailor

How long before hand should you order the suit? How long will alterations take? How much will the suit cost? Are there any complementary extras (Ties, socks, etc.) How many fittings should you have?

Love is in the air & ‘PLANE’ FOR ALL TO SEE Frank Wynne & David O’Sullivan 28th July 2015

Castle Dargan, Co. Sligo

PRIDE & JOY

Photos courtesy of Life of Reilly Photography

A BIT ABOUT THE GROOMS

Frank Wynne is from Sligo and David O’Sullivan is from Dublin. Frank and David are both cabin crew with Aer Lingus and live in Swords.

THE MEET Despite knowing each other 20 years, Frank and David, met 12 years ago on a night out in the George and love blossomed from there. THE PROPOSAL There was a few proposals by both of the guys but a final decision to get married took place late last year at their home. WEDDING DATE July 28, 2015 VENUE Castle Dargan Co. Sligo BRIDESMAIDS/WITNESSES Siobhan Armstrong and Hilary Ahmed

FLOWERGIRL Ruth Wynne

HOW MANY GUESTS 210 SUITS Louis Copeland RINGS Hanikens Jewelers, New York CAKE David made one layer of the cake. The other layers of the cake were made and decorated by Carol Finn Cooley. ENTERTAINMENT “Amadeus

band from Co. Tipperary played for drinks reception. Sligo based band Deja Groove and DJ Scruffy Duffy Entertainment had the dance floor full all night. We then had a second night in Shenanigans, Sligo where Drag Queen Avryll Nitrate entertained our guests with Drag Bingo and a fabulous show before DJ Scruffy rocked the place again.”

PHOTOGRAPHER

Justin and Danielle O’Reilly of Life Of Reilly Photography in Swords

OFFICIANT Louise

MaCauley from Civil Registration, Sligo

FAVOURITE MEMORY

The day was filled with many emotional moments for Frank. “The ceremony was relaxed and fun, my mum welcoming David to our family nearly had me in tears and David’s sister welcoming me to their family. The hotel staff do a little show with desert and we had cuddly toys of our dogs in a box with picture postcards of them, where our guests could write us a message instead of a guest book.”

PERSONAL TOUCHES Each guest got a

Ferrero Rocher chocolate in a chair shaped personalised box and couples or single guests got a pair of salt and pepper Love Doves in a presentation box. The placenames were done in the shape of a plane.

HONEYMOON New Zealand and Fiji in January

Tell us about your experience working with Life of Reilly Photography â&#x20AC;&#x153;Justin and Danielle at Life of Reilly Photography were great to work with. At the engagement shoot in the grounds of Malahide Castle Danielle used her keen eye to direct the shoot while Justin looked after lighting and editing the shots. And the very same applied on the day; they came down the day before the wedding to see where best to take photos. They made us feel very relaxed and we got some great photos later that were not posed. I would highly recommend working with Life of Reilly Photography.â&#x20AC;? www.lifeofreillyphotography.com info@lifeofreillyphotography.com 086 813 9123

Fairytale Weddings at the...

At the end of a tree lined avenue The Shamrock Lodge Hotel proudly sits on its own private grounds and gardens. Couples can enjoy an entire fairytale day from the exchange of vows in the beautifully decorated Shannon Suite through to a fantastic reception meal in our John Broderick Suite, all within the luxury and privacy of The Shamrock Lodge Hotel.

The hotel enjoys a quiet setting off the main road, yet is in close proximity to the busy Athlone town centre. Located just 1.5 hours from Dublin, one hour from Galway and a ten minute walk into Athlone Town, The Shamrock Lodge Hotel is in the perfect location in the heart of Ireland. With over 20 years’ experience in welcoming couples to celebrate their special day with us, why not ‘Let Our Family Look After Yours’ on your Wedding Day. The Shamrock Lodge Hotel, Clonown Road, Athlone, Co. Westmeath T: 090 649 2601 E: info@shamrocklodgehotel.ie www.shamrocklodgehotel.ie

We pride ourselves in offering a unique wedding setting with manicured private grounds, warm hospitality and excellent food. Welcoming happy couples for more than 20 years, our family run hotel has the experience you are looking for in a wedding venue. We are very happy to help and advise on every element of the day to ensure your wedding day is everything you dream of and more. Whether you choose from a magical winter wedding at very special rates or pick a date that has significant meaning to you both, we assure that you will be treated to a professional and warm service. As it is your special day, we are very flexible when it comes to any specific requirements that you may have.

The Shamrock Lodge Hotel offers some of the very best hotel accommodation in Athlone consisting of 40 deluxe and superior bedrooms and 11 two-bedroom suites with an abundance of free car parking for guests. All superior rooms have garden views and most have private balconies. The banqueting suite, beautifully designed and carefully planned for weddings, is spacious and modern. Its elegant décor, chandeliers, air conditioning, private bar and dance floor creates a superb setting for guests to relax and enjoy the occasion.

We offer FREE engagement shoots to anyone who books with us!

Contact: Justin Reilly 086 8139123 Life of Reilly Photography

email: info@lifeofreillyphotography.com facebook.com/lifeofreillyphotograpy

www.lifeofreillyphotography.com

Alternative Grooms wear pieces By Michaela Keating

Looking fabulous on your wedding day is one of the most important things for all grooms. We’ve come up with some ideas to make sure you look more dapper than ever walking down that aisle!

Quirky pocket squares

Pocket squares are always a popular way to spruce a man’s suit but why not think outside the box and find an original pocket square to make yourselves stand out. Have the wedding date embroidered on to the right hand corner or choose a print with patterns of your pet so they can be there in spirit. The possibilities are endless!

Tweed

Check shirt A check shirt may be a staple piece of clothing for some men on their days off work, but these old reliables are evolving into one of the boho wedding must haves for men this season. Soft nudes and light earthy tones are what the boho theme is all about, so what could be more fitting than a beige and white check shirt for the groom or grooms to tie in with the theme? With their variety of colours and patterns, a check shirt is something to be considered for the non traditional couple. Still not sold? Think the ‘sexy lumberjack’ and you’ll be running down the aisle to see your man!

It may not be every man’s fabric of choice for a wedding suit but tweed is a major trend this season for guys that are tying the knot. Brown toned tweed is the perfect way to introduce autumn winter elements into the grooms look. If a full tweed suit is a little too much to handle, why not add slight touches, like the waist coat of a three-piece or in a pocket square.

Matching suits

It might sound cheesy but if you and your groom want to really take it a step further then why not wear the same outfit. You can both look as dapper as each other. And who knows you may get a discount for purchasing two suits from the same designer or store. It would also be a special time together shopping for your wedding attire.

Braces

Autumn is one of two seasons where we can dare to risk leaving off an extra layer on account of the weather. With the busy flow to a wedding day, it’s best to feel cool and collected and for a groom or both grooms, saying ‘I do’ minus a suit jacket is the best thing for it. Braces are a long time friend of the suit and if leaving the jacket behind, a good set of braces will do just the trick in keeping the groom formal yet comfortable on the day. Tie the colour in with the theme or let each groom use

Lough Rynn Castle, Estate & Gardens named best castle wedding venue for the third time this year Lough Rynn Castle Estate & Gardens is in a celebratory mood as it has added a third accolade to the Hotel’s trophy cabinet so far this year. The Co. Leitrim property, which is a member of the Hanly Castle Hotel group and part of the prestigious Manor House Hotels portfolio, has been named Best Castle Wedding Venue by Weddings online Awards, Mrs2Be Awards and most recently the RSVP Magazine Awards, seeing off competition from the likes of Dromoland Castle, Castle Leslie, Clontarf Castle and Lough Eske Castle. Lough Rynn Castle Estate & Gardens is renowned as being one of Irelands most romantic castle hotels. Set on a 300 acre estate Lough Rynn Castle is the perfect retreat, steeped in history and overlooking the lake, you can relax with walks in the stunning walled gardens or take a county pursuit around the estate. Dine in the 2AA Rosette awarded Sandstone Restaurant and experience this modern cuisine that is inspired by food trends and the seasonal greens from the castle grounds. Lough Rynn Castle Estate & Gardens, Mohill, Co. Leitrim Tel: 071 96 32700 E: enquiries@loughrynn.ie Web: www.loughrynn.ie

this as an opportunity to express his own personal style when choosing the colour or pattern.

Fall in love with weddings

at Bunratty Castle Hotel As one of the leading wedding venues in Munster you can be assured that the Bunratty Castle Hotel will meet all of your expectations and more. We understand that when it comes to wedding celebrations creating the perfect event is essential. It is your wedding your way at the Bunratty Castle Hotel and we would love to work with you to create a customised individual package based on your specific requirements. From the moment you walk through our door at Bunratty Castle Hotel you will experience a warm welcome, gracious hospitality and personal service. Our reputation for good food and friendly service as well as high standards and attention to detail will ensure you have a memorable day. Bunratty Castle Hotel offers one of the finest and most unique wedding venues in Ireland. Nestled in the historic heart of the village of Bunratty, which is famous for the 15th Century Bunratty Castle with all its charm and romance. Our dedicated wedding coordinator will be delighted to meet with you and guide you through the tour of our banqueting suite, luxurious bedrooms for your guests and bridal suite for you and your loved one along with our spa and leisure experience. The expertise of our professional team at Bunratty Castle Hotel will ensure that you and your guests are free to enjoy the most memorable day of your life. Bunratty Castle Hotel has recently picked up the ‘Function Room of the Year 2015’ and David Shelly General Manager picked up ‘Wedding Personality of The Year’ awards at the Brides of Limerick Magazine Wedding Industry Awards. Bunratty Castle Hotel, Bunratty, Co. Clare Tel: 061 478700 E: info@bunrattycastlehotel.com Web: www.bunrattycastlehotel.com

Coordination

We can organise as little or as much of your wedding as you need, from full, partial or on the day coordination. www.co-me.net Should you have the coordination taken care of but you would like to have someone look after the styling and dĂŠcor, our sister company www.perfect-details.com

Tel: +353 (0)65 68 33853 / +353 (0) 86 8220 300 email: info@co-me.net

Wedding

EDITORIAL

Muckross Park

T ras h the dress

Hotel & Spa

Weddings in the heart of Killarney National Park

Set against the stunning backdrop of Killarney’s National Park, with authentic architecture, lavish interiors and culinary excellence, Muckross Park Hotel provides all the elements required to orchestrate your fairytale wedding. With so many details involved, our dedicated and experienced wedding and events team can help you plan a magical day which encapsulates your own taste and personality. At Muckross Park Hotel & Spa we aim not only to meet client expectations, but to exceed them in all aspects of the service we offer. Renowned for our ability to capture the true essence of the day, we can assist you from the initial stages with advice on menu, wine and floral arrangements right through to entertainment choices. Established since 1795, the hotel is the oldest Victorian hotel in Kerry and has been lavishly redeveloped to a deluxe 5 Star property, offering old world ‘wow’ factor elegance and yet the best in modern comfort. As the only hotel located within Killarney’s National Park you will have a stunning backdrop for your wedding photos. Whether you choose our own manicured gardens, the gazebo next to the river or, venture into the National Park to Muckross Abbey and grounds you can be assured of beautiful memories. For your wedding reception, we offer a variety of rooms for you to choose from; whether you are planning an intimate celebration or hosting the big white wedding, we can offer you the perfect setting for your dream day. Muckross Park hotel also boasts a number of beautiful civil ceremony venues including our purpose built romantic medieval Atrium with its own private garden, original church pews, floor to ceiling windows and a magnificent open fire. For more information and a private consultation contact our Wedding Sales Manager Bernie O’Donoghue today on 064 662 3400 or email bodonoghue@muckrosspark.com. Muckross Park Hotel & Spa, Muckross, Killarney, Co. Kerry Tel: +353 (0) 64 6623400 Email: info@muckrosspark.com

By Michaela Keating

‘Trash the dress’ sessions are one of the biggest

wedding trends of late. Also known as ‘fearless bridal’ or ‘rock the frock’, this involves you ladies putting on your wedding dress or attire the following day or at a later date after your wedding and shooting pictures in a location of your choice. It’s up to you whether or not you totally destroy your dress or not (don’t panic, most people don’t!). This is an opportunity to take informal and intimate photos of you and your other half while at a scenic or unique location. Work with your photographer to create images you want to have whether they are sexy, romantic or good old fun! It can be as messy or as whacky as you like, the opportunities are endless! The beach, tree climbing, horse riding and jet skiing are just a handful of possible settings where many couples have chosen to shoot theirs. For many brides, the idea of splashing paint over their custom made gown that cost them a year’s wages isn’t too appealing. If this is the case and you would like to experience the liberating feeling of trashing the dress, why not visit your local dry cleaners and discuss the options that can be dealt with so your dress isn’t in a permanent state of beach sandiness and put your mind at ease. If harming your dress in any way is not an option, use your judgement to decide if your wedding dress can survive in the conditions of your session. Intricate beading or delicate lace may not hold their own against tree climbing or strong waves, so do bare this in mind. Many brides question whether or not to wear makeup and get their hair re-done for their shoot. Again, this is entirely up to you but be practical. Most ‘trash the dress’ shoots involve a bit of rough and tumble or a thrash around in the sea, so strong eye makeup may not be the best way to go. Keep the lips rouged and pink up the cheeks but keeping it low key will give you relaxed and natural pictures. Photographers love the opportunity to do something different so speak to your local wedding photographer about doing your trash the dress session and work together to create the perfect shoot!

A Magical DECEMBER WEDDING Don Donnelly & Garreth Oâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;Mahony 17th September 2013

Fallons Bar & Restaurant, Kilcullen, Co. Kildare

PRIDE & JOY

Photos courtesy of Cardam Photography

Don Donnelly and Garreth O’Mahony first laid eyes on each other eleven years ago. The pair initially met online and got on so well they decided to meet in person to see if anything would come out of this blossoming friendship. They met for dinner and have had many meals together since. Don, who works for Tesco, had lived in many exotic locations such as Spain, Geneva, Saudi Arabia, Japan and the U.S. before he settled in Ireland. Garreth is a selfemployed IT contractor. They keep themselves busy – so busy in fact they recently set up a business together called LegalEase which will provide accounting services to the legal profession. Ever the romantic and spontaneous person, Don told Garreth last year to pack his bags, he was taking him to Turkey on holidays. “He gave me ten hours notice before our flight,” laughs Garreth looking back. “After a wonderful six days where we visited the Gates of Hell in Ephesus, we packed up and were waiting on the bus to bring us to the airport. With five minutes to go Don proposed to me, saying that as we had visited the gates of hell we could go anywhere. I said ‘Yes’ immediately. Well it was either that or a difficult six hour journey home.”

Don and Garreth decided upon kilts as their wedding attire. “We wore kilts in our family colours, Red for the Donnelly’s and Green for the O’Mahony’s. This allowed us to stand out as the married couple and yes, nothing was worn under the kilts, it was all in perfect working order!”

All loved up back in Ireland plans quickly fell into place to get married. They booked Fallons Bar and Restaurant in Kilcullen, Co. Kildare for a small and cozy December wedding. “We wanted an intimate occasion so we invited 30 guests, Don’s and my family and some close friends,” said Garreth. “We wanted the occasion to be informal, almost as if we invited the guests to our house for dinner.”

Through the ceremony there was three very personal songs sung. They entered to “If I Was to Fall in Love” by Christy Hennessey – it was Garreth’s late father’s favourite song. “It’s Getting Better” by Mama Cass was played during the ceremony, a song which tells the story of their relationship and “Something Inside So Strong” by Labi Sifre was played at the end, a song which portrays the struggle for gay rights. “During the reception we decided to play all of our favourite songs on an iPod in the background. After the reception Don’s sister-in-law sang two songs for us,” tells Garreth. Although there was no set theme for the big day, it being the festive time of year they happened upon a natural one. “We incorporated many Christmas elements into the day. We had crackers for each of the guests, we gave a tree bauble as a wedding favour and had Christmas stockings for each of the children.” Adding his own personal touch to the wedding Garreth designed their wedding cake. It was an angel sponge cake with a melon curd filling and a meringue butter cream frosting. “I gave the recipe to Alice’s restaurant in Naas who made the cake for us the day before the ceremony. We coated the frosting in edible glitter in the colours of the gay pride flag and separated the colours using Jelly Beans (Don’s favourite). Eibhlin created two figurines for the top dressed in Kilts and Magda did a wonderful job decorating the cake.”

And that wasn’t the only personal touches. Instead of a mass booklet they created a ceremony souvenir with pictures of them growing up and of all the guests who were at the wedding. “We included snippets of the ceremony and songs that we played. We also created activity booklets for the children to keep them occupied during the afters. We gave them a camera and they had to photograph different things during the reception. If they photographed each one they won a prize.” Garreth describes his wedding to Don as “magical.”

The Details Photographer Damian from Cardam Photography Who officiated the ceremony Tommy Gorman performed the ceremony Favourite memories of the day “No one memory, but the whole day was special. I was afraid that the day would go by in a blur of activity but it didn’t. The speeches were excellent, funny, poignant, personal and quick.” Honeymoon The guys flew to New York two days after the wedding. They spent a few days there before travelling onwards to spend Christmas with Don’s sister in Colorado. They then spent a week in Santo Domingo in fabulous winter sun shine. First dance No First dance. We wanted an informal atmosphere where nobody felt pressurised to dance. Anything unique “When we first started dating we bought a bottle of whiskey which we kept. We gave each member of our wedding party a whiskey tankard as a thank you gift and filled it with the ten year old whiskey.” What was your experience like with Cardam Photography? “Damian from Cardam Photography was excellent. He made everything so straight forward on the day. From coming up with different styles of photographs to blending in with our guests he was marvelous. I would definitely recommend him for any size wedding. We love the photos and have loads of them framed around the house.” www.cardamphotography.com 086 722 2252

75 75

EDITORIAL The

Earl of Desmond Hotel “For your Wedding Day at The Earl of Desmond, the main thing you need is love”

Congratulations to you both! You are getting married and The Earl of Desmond Hotel in Tralee is inviting you to put your trust in them to create memories of your wedding day that will last a lifetime. Your day must be and will be absolutely perfect. Mark Audie, general manager and Norella Mansfield, assistant manager and wedding coordinator, have an abundance of combined experience between them and will constantly make sure that special attention is bestowed upon the couple to ensure every detail and every wish, is taken into account. The Earl of Desmond Hotel has the experience, expertise, style and understanding to ensure the day dreamt becomes a reality. The glowing testimonials that the hotel has received recently from wedding couples, on both Facebook and TripAdvisor is testament to the fact that Mark and Norella are living up to these promises.

Here at Stalks and Stems we have everything you will need in flowers under one roof. From Bridal Flowers to Church, Venue and Room Décor, like Vases, Candelabra’s, Bird Cages, a huge selection of Trees, Mood Lighting and of course the star treatment RED CARPET... What more do you need!

Stalks and Stems Florist Tel 065 9059455 or 087 127 2225 info@stalksandstemsflorist.ie www.stalksandstemsflorist.ie

Cooraclare, Kilrush, Co Clare & Whitehall, Parteen, Co. Limerick

The hotel is currently running a special offer in which the first 70 guests are charged at €1999, with each additional guest thereafter is €39. This price is also inclusive of a whole load of extras with their compliments and is a hard price to beat. The function area in the hotel has been completely refurbished and renovated in recent years and can be altered in size to the size of your wedding party, catering for parties from 100 - 450, with a bright, welcoming and spacious bar and lobby area, along with a beautiful ballroom. The newest refurbishments of the hotel see a new ceremony room added to the hotel, the Geraldine Room. A hue of different shades of pink and silvers give the room a classy yet modern look, and it is the perfect setting for you to say ‘I do’. The wedding suite of the hotel has also seen a revamp in recent weeks and creates the ideal place to relax and unwind after you have partied your night away.

M: 086 250 4212 E: info@djsteviedee.com

Call out to meet Mark or Norella with any enquiries; they will only be delighted to meet you and show you how the Earl of Desmond can make your day the perfect day. The Earl Of Desmond Hotel, Tralee, Co. Kerry, Ireland Tel: 00 353 -(0)66-7121299 E: info@earlofdesmond.com Web: www.earlofdesmond.com

Weddings Online AWARDS 2015

Wedding DJ of the Year www.djsteviedee.ie

EDITORIAL

BALLYROE HEIGHTS HOTEL

Your Style, Your Vision, Your Special Day Ballyroe Heights Hotel, located on the outskirts of Tralee, Co. Kerry, overlooks magnificent views of the Sliabh Mish Mountains and Tralee Bay. Our stunning location is perfect for civil ceremonies and wedding receptions and provides the ideal backdrop for those precious photographs. Our beautifully styled and dressed gallery and summit suites provide a splendid setting for you to take your vows, leaving you only steps away from your reception and the rest of your special day. Our award winning team will assist you with the careful planning of all aspects of your wedding from the ceremony through to breakfast in our stunning French themed bridal suite. Together we can create your perfect and magical day with as little stress as possible.

Many of our couples have found that the inclusion of a humanist or spiritual element to the ceremony has added another dimension to their celebration. We offer every assistance to our couples to find the ideal blend of traditional and spiritual to make their day exceptional. As part of the hotel’s commitment to couples we have recently refurbished our deluxe bedrooms, stylish lobby, spacious ballroom and palace bar and restaurant. These major refurbishments combined with our personal service have ensured the needs and expectations of modern day couples are surpassed. Ballyroe Heights Hotel has also enjoyed success winning Best 3* Star Wedding Venue in Ireland and best overall Kerry venue from Weddingdates.ie, also Best Large Business Award from Tralee Tidy Towns and Certificates of Excellence Awards from Tripadvisor.

“Our day was amazing, I know it’s a cliché to say it was the best day of my life but it was and the location made it so. The setting is beautiful, the food fantastic, many of my guests go to a wedding once a month and so many said it was the best food they ever had at a wedding. We had a beautiful ‘reflection’ in the tower room instead of a church ceremony , the hotel accommodated our every whim. The rooms are so comfortable and again the hotel was so attentive to the needs of our guests with mobility needs. The secret to Ballyroe’s success is the staff they are so kind and helpful and friendly, ten out of ten. I have met so many other people since who have had their weddings at Ballyroe and they all have only have compliments about their experience. Book Ballyroe it won’t disappoint. I wish I could relive my day over and over again.” Joan Ennison on Weddingdates.ie Details on wedding packages and available dates in 2016 with Special Offers from January through to April and October/ November 2016 are available by calling 066 712 6796 or sending an email to info@ballyroe.com. More information is available from www.ballyroe.com

HOLLYWOOD LED LETTERS:

GIANT 5FT HIGH LETTERS & NUMBERS HIRE When it comes to crafting a beautiful wedding, it’s all about representing the couple’s style and personality and same-sex weddings are no different. Celebrate your love story with the newly launched HOLLYWOOD LED LETTERS who supply giant 5ft high illuminated letters, dates, numbers and initials for weddings, civil ceremonies, blessings, engagements, and parties throughout Ireland. Based in Munster, Hollywood LED Letters has the largest selection of 5ft high giant LED light up letters and numbers for hire in this country. These giant light up letters and numbers will make any wedding truly unique. Wedding photographers love Hollywood LED Letters - whether positioned behind the wedding cake table, by the dance floor or inside the reception of your event, they just speak for themselves! Customise your event with a choice of giant 5ft high lights: MR & MR or MRS & MRS, spell it out with L-O-V-E, add your celebratory year or date, your name or initials (M & S, C & J, K & L etc) or get in touch to custom build items for your event in 2016 and beyond. Hollywood LED Letters and numbers are handmade from a renewable source of wood to the highest standard with a classic white finish. Stunning and elegant, each free-standing 5ft high LED light uses warm white, high quality, Osram LED lamps to give a dazzling effect. The giant letter lights may be hired for one or more days to suit your event and add that special touch of romance, charm and elegance to your big day. Just a €75 deposit will secure your wedding date hire, and while some 2015 dates are still available, it is advisable to make an enquiry as soon as possible as there is limited availability for the remainder of this year. Hollywood LED Letters has the largest LED light up letters and numbers available to hire – standing at 5ft / 150cms high. Irish LGBT Weddings readers can avail of an EXCLUSIVE €150 DISCOUNT – simply quote “LGBT15” when making a booking enquiry. This unique €150 discount applies to bookings of the giant 5ft LED light up letters in: MR & MR, MR & MR (and) LOVE, MRS & MRS, MRS & MRS (and) LOVE. For bang on trend wedding reception ideas to give your big day the WOW factor, please email info@ hollywoodledletters.ie - call Phil on 086 0378100 – and visit their website at www.hollywoodledletters.ie

EDITORIAL

Thomond Park Stadium

Getting to know me...

The perfect venue for your unforgettable wedding day

Samantha Harding wedding and event planner Samantha is a passionate wedding and event planner and we sat down to get to know the lady herself as she tells us about the job she is truly passionate about. Tell us a bit about you and your business “I am a wedding planner based in the Munster area. I plan and coordinate weddings from the ‘Yes, I will marry you’ stage all the way through to the wedding day. I can also be brought in closer to the event, managing the occasion from two or three weeks before, to help relieve any stress and free up the time of crucial wedding party members. Some couples know exactly what and where they want their day to be and some just have an idea, so for me, as a wedding planner, it is to advise and guide; to suggest and make dreams into realities!”

What changes do you think the marriage equality referendum will bring to Ireland’s weddings? “The whole wedding scene in Ireland has changed incredibly in the last twenty years with more and more couples opting for civil weddings and more and more venues available for them to choose. Now the biggest and best change of all is about to happen when gay and lesbian couples can enjoy all the rights of civil marriage. Like their straight brothers and sisters, some couples will look to a wedding planner to assist them in making the most of their special day. When they do, they’ll want to know that they are placing their big event in the hands of a person who will ensure that everybody involved, from the invitation printers, to the wedding cake makers, are happy to celebrate the joy of same sex marriage.” As a wedding planner, what would you say is your niche or particular area of interest? “Many of the weddings I plan are with couples based abroad, where one of them is Irish and they want to marry here in Ireland. Having lived half my life in North America and half here in Ireland, I have a good understanding of the cultures and lifestyles of both. I have a strong supplier list and a good team working with me. With the advent of Skype and social media, it is easy now to plan a wedding in Ireland for a couple who are living in Boston or San Francisco. Ireland is the perfect destination for gay, lesbian or straight couples wanting to marry in a magical and versatile setting. That gives us all something to celebrate!” Samantha Harding Events, Co Clare, Ireland.

The spacious Thomond suite enjoys glass facades with panoramic views of the stadium and pitch which will give your wedding the unique experience this special day deserves in our ultimate venue. A professional and friendly service awaits you at Thomond Park Stadium. We offer excellent facilities for all your wedding needs. We believe everything should be just as you imagined for your wedding day. That is why our experienced events team will be on hand to help. We can take care of the important details and are licensed for civil ceremonies and partnerships. Thomond Park Stadium caters for any type of civil wedding while providing a wonderfully different atmosphere for your big day. Our exclusive packages include the following: – Red carpet on arrival – Champagne for the bridal party on arrival – Amazing photographic opportunities on the pitch and around the stadium – Museum and stadium tours for wedding guests – Commemorative Munster wall brick to mark your day For more information on our unique packages, please call 061 421100 or email events@thomondpark.ie Thomond Park, Cratloe Rd., Limerick. E-Mail: events@thomondpark.ie Telephone: 061-421129

Tel: 00353 (0) 86 171 5035 Email: samantha@samanthahardingevents.com

A Circus Date

WAS JUST THE TICKET! Victoria Duffy & Julianne Gillen 7th June 2015

Summerhill House Hotel

PRIDE & JOY

Photos courtesy of Kevin Deane Photography

THE VICTORIA AND JULIANNE STORY The beautiful dark haired Victoria Duffy and the pretty faced Julianne Gillen first laid eyes on each other across a sitting room at a house party of a mutual friend. Julianne was shy and Vicki took her under her wing. Little did these two ladies think that that very day at their friend Andre’s new home they would fall in love and have the most amazing wedding day. Vicki grew up in Clondalkin, Co. Dublin. Her family is part of the famous ‘Duffy’s Circus’ which is still going strong today. Jules grew up in a small town in Roscommon, she went to Dublin at the age of 17 to go to college and has resided there ever since. The ladies are now living in Jules’ house in Clonsilla with her two children, Callan, 17, Théa, 10 and Vicki’s dog Doris Day. Jules became deaf at the age of two from meningitis; while she can talk and communicate well, she is a fluent Irish Sign Language (ISL) user and an active member of the Irish Deaf Community. She used to co-present ‘Hands On’ the TV programme for the Irish Deaf Community and is now working as a Community Resource Officer and Advocate with DeafHear.ie. Vicki is a semi-retired singer; she worked as a supporting singer for a lot of the big names back in the 1980s and 1990s. When not singing she works as a car showroom coordinator for various motor dealerships.

THE MEET 82

A mutual friend named Andre bought a house in Clondalkin, directly opposite Vicki’s house, not only did he invite his friends to his afternoon house warming party, he kindly invited his new neighbours. “While I was sitting shyly in the corner wondering how to leave without being noticed, Vicki came over and introduced herself, we hit it off really well and ended up talking all day.” It was love at first sight for Vicki and she set out to woo Jules. They added each other on Facebook where Vicki messaged to ask Jules out for “coffee or a vino” but got fobbed off at the start of her pursuit. “I was telling Jules about my circus background, when she replied that she hadn’t been to a circus in years, so I mentioned that my uncle’s ‘Tom Duffy’s Circus’ was in Clontarf at the moment and offered to take her and her children to see it. She didn’t say no to that!” The circus ‘date’ lead to a proper dinner date and then another and another and before the summer ended Jules had fallen in love with Vicki. Their relationship blossomed from there and before they knew it, plans to marry were in full swing.

THE RING Jules recalls the moment the pair decided to get hitched and of course, the moment was marked by a ring. “The first Christmas after we got together, Vicki was looking for a ring to replace one that had gone missing so I offered to get her it as an early Christmas present. I liked her ring so much I got the same one for myself as well! People kept asking if we were engaged. That got us talking seriously about making it official, before New Year was over we’d agreed to just do it.”

WEDDING PLANS What had initially started out as a small hush-hush intimate affair snowballed into a big do as all of the ladies’ family and friends insisted on being involved! The girls set the date for June 7, 2015 at the stunning Summerhill House Hotel in Enniskerry, Co. Wicklow. With the venue sorted, the invites were sent (with instructions to wear something turquoise!) to 100 adults plus seven children with another 70 for the afters.

THE WEDDING LOOK Vicki had a bespoke suit made by A Suit That Fits in Dublin. Vicki’s turquoise polka dot shirt was made to order as a gift from her ‘best woman’ and life long friend Jackie Courtney. Flowers were supplied by ‘Fussy Peacock’ who were just wonderful to work with.

Jules fell in love with a silver overcoat from Nicola Ross, and then went looking for something special to wear underneath it. After weeks of looking she finally found a simple jersey dress and a layered underskirt from the Mary Grant Alternative Wedding Collection in the Powerscourt Centre. “I loved my Mary Grant pieces, I have worn them twice since! How many brides can say that?”

SAVVY SAVINGS Julianne and Vicky reigned in the budget on some aspects of their big day. A good friend, TJ Hedderman, made their cake as a wedding present. The bottom was chocolate biscuit, the middle was Lemon Madeira and the top was red velvet. Coming from a musical family, and being a singer herself, Vicki wasn’t short of musical talent on her big day. “We had a vibrant mix of classical, country, funk, jazz, pop and traditional music going all day!” Another of Vicki’s friends Kevin Deane of Kevin Deane Photography took the pictures on the day as a wedding present. Cyril Fox of Video Me Productions shot the day. Jules made most of the stationery herself, the table plans and she created fans that outlined the order of the service.

Vincent Whelan of the Spiritual Union of Ireland officiated at the blessing. “It was a beautiful, moving and emotional service. Vinny used to work with Vicki in the motor trade and this was his gift to us, he kept choking up and making everyone emotional!”

FAVOURITE MEMORIES For Jules, it was a classic case of wedding morning stress that made her appreciate the main moments of her day. “There was a few niggling hiccups happening right up to the ceremony that really bothered me but the minute I walked into the room and saw my beloved Vicki standing at the top waiting for me, all the stress literally just poured away. Our ceremony was so emotional, it was a really beautiful, unique and personal.” For Vicki, it was the personal touches and of course the all important first look at Julianne that made her day. “Our niece Tia Duffy sang ‘The One’ by Kodaline during the ceremony as a special surprise for us. I ended up playing the drums with the jazz band! And of course, when I saw my beautiful bride walk in.”

PERSONAL TOUCHES As Jules is a Deaf sign language user and there was deaf guests in attendance, the entire day was totally bilingual conducted in both ISL and spoken English. The ceremony, the speeches etc., were all signed by their good friend and sign language interpreter, Catherine White. Vicki has a huge love for Bette Midler so all the tables were named after each of her biggest hits. And of course the music- “A lot of our friends were very involved in the day. Musical family and friends provided our music. The minister who conducted the Spiritual ceremony is an old friend; our ISL interpreter is a good friend; plus others offered to do wedding favours, our cake, photographs, our hair, make-up, video and decorations. This really helped in keeping the costs down.”

EDITORIAL

Shine Bright like a Diamond at

Gleeson Goldsmiths

Here you will be greeted with a friendly welcome and if you wish, be left to browse in an unhurried atmosphere. You can view the beautiful selection of diamond engagement rings in the privacy of our diamond ring room. All our jewellery is handcrafted with the highest quality metals and clean cut diamonds that do not lose their sparkle, with designs and prices to suit all budgets and tastes. Brian and his team have a wide selection of wedding bands for you to choose from in all metals. If you have a unique idea for an engagement ring or wedding band we are here to bring that dream to life, with 30 yearâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s experience you can be reassured of the highest quality craftsmanship. Our world famous Burren Collection in silver and gold are very popular as bridal party Gifts and if you wish to have a special theme, Brian and his team of goldsmiths can tailor make all the gifts for the bridal party. Pocket watches are very popular for the groomsman; with a selection of quality citizen watches to choose from the full gift list will be fulfilled in one visit. Visit our website and online shop at www. gleesongoldsmiths.ie

Getting engaged, married or wish to celebrate that special birthday or anniversary? Would you like superior customer care to help you plan the most important day of your life? If the answer is yes, a visit to Gleeson Goldsmiths in Ballycasey Craft and Design Centre, Shannon, Co Clare is a must.

HOW TO SAVE FOR YOUR BIG DAY

You don’t have to spend loads of money

You don’t need a flash and fancy wedding for it to be a good one. If you’re surrounded by friends and family and people that love you the day should be great without splashing out cash on non-essential things. Just make sure everyone’s happy and you can save a lot of money.

Budget, budget, budget

Before you spend any money, make out a plan of how much you’re willing to spend on anything. This allows you to keep control of everything and means you can make sure that you won’t go over budget, and a checklist will make sure you don’t forget about anything.

Everyday savings

Everyday savings could be easier than you think, and could build up quickly. Cutting back on the amount of times you go out for coffee during the week, or how frequently you go to the cinema could make a really big difference on the amount of money you have leading up to your big day.

Shop around

Don’t hire or book the first venue or entertainer or anything you look at. Just because they seem to be the most popular or someone suggested them/it to you, that does not mean they’ll be the cheapest, or even the best. Make sure to shop around and look for the best deals, you might be surprised with some of the deals you can find!

The date will have an impact on the price

The date that you’ve set your wedding for can have a massive impact on what the venue for your reception is going to charge you. If you choose weekday your costs will be cut , but of course some of your guests may not be able to make it on a weekday, so keep that in consideration. Photographers and florists might even give you discounts also for having your wedding mid-week.

You don’t have to use the most popular venues

Look into all possible venues for your big day, not just the venues you’ve already heard of. This will give you an opportunity to find a place you’ve never heard of before that may suit your tastes and offer a better wedding packages.

Second-hand dress

Pre-loved wedding dresses can be the perfect way to save money on your wedding day. Available at a fraction of the price than new gowns, second hand dresses can be re-designed to create your dream dress. If you’re not going for something too extravagant, this could very well be the best option for you. A second hand dress is guaranteed to be a lot cheaper than a first-hand one, and can be very easy to find if you’re going for something plain and simple. Renting suits instead of buying can also be a big save on the day. Suit hire businesses specialise in grooms wear pieces, so make use of your local suit hire and rent one for the fraction of the price of buying!

Choose your guest list wisely

When setting out to write up a guest list, it’s possible to get carried away and have names of Grandad’s cousins friend at the afters. If you’re on a budget, stick to inviting people you really want at your wedding. Smaller, more intimate weddings can often be just as charming and amazing than the bigger wedding parties.

€20,000 WEDDING BUDGET TO BE WON

You Choose Everything, We Pay The Bills! to enter or for more information go to our website

WWW.WINOURWEDDING.IE

Travel Themed Wedding By Wedding Coordinator Kate Deegan While not every couple chooses a conscious theme for their big day, it is a nice touch to try and include your shared passions in some way. Why? Well for one thing, it will make the day feel more personalised and special, as it will reflect both of you as a couple. Many couples have a love of travel, for example and this theme is one of the most popular I see as an award-winning wedding coordinator. It’s popular for some many reasons; you may have taken a year out travelling the globe together, or indeed met while you were away. You might both be from Ireland, but live abroad in places such as Australia or Canada and have come home to say ‘I do’.

Stationery Giving your wedding stationery a bit of a wanderlust makeover is a simple way to inject a bit of personality into proceedings. Think about having mini passport style save the dates or boarding card invitations, travel themed menus or even orders of service for the ceremony.

Table plan The table plan really allows for some fun, no matter what your theme is. When it comes to a wedding theme you can ramp up the cute factor with all sorts of maps related seating plans, globes and luggage tags galore.

On the table Small things done well can really bring the wow factor to your wedding and a travel theme is no exception. Simple centrepieces of your favourite travel books, mini globes, postcards from your favourite destinations as table names and real luggage tags as place cards can look stunning and be a bit of a fun ice breaker for the guests too.

Food Your wedding cake is always going to be something of a centrepiece that most guests take the time to have a look at. So why not make it a cornerstone of your theme? Think tiers of suitcases, globes, cruise ships, planes, the Eiffel tower, the Sydney Opera House and anything your imagination can think of! And don’t forget your canapés. If you and your partner adore sushi from Japan, or can’t get enough of American BBQ why not reflect this on your pre-dinner canapés or your midnight snack?

Photo props Finally, using props in your photos is a lasting way to include a travel theme into your day. Think about using vintage suitcases for some of the pictures or have guests throw plane shaped confetti!

Kate Deegan Co-ordination Made Easy Ashfield house Ennis, Co. Clare Ireland

Tel: +353 (0)65 68 33853 / +353 (0) 86 8220 300 email: info@co-me.net Web: www.co-me.net

89 Wedding orders made fresh!

Delivered 2 days in advance!

log on to our website

cornude.ie www.

for wedding tips/ideas

The perfect ‘post ceremony’ snack... especially with a glass of bubbly! RS

U AVO 6 FL

ALSO: corn/jars/scoops/cones available to buy online... Made to order Wedding / Event Popcorn, Artisan, Small batch attention, using only real ingredients. Everything (even flavourings) made from scratch. Ingredients such as garlic arrives here in bulbs and is worked and cooked to make our lovely flavours. “If it says pistachio popcorn - you get real pistachios throughout!” Caramels are traditionally made using Irish butter and Real Vanilla pods.

e Nationwid Delivery!

‘Best Start Up 2015’ in ‘The Irish Food Awards - Blas na hÉireann’ Ingredients are naturally gluten free (made in a kitchen handling gluten, nuts and other allergens) GMO free corn used.

Cornude-Artisan-Popcorn

@CornudePopcorn

Phone: 086 0258125

New Single

YOUR AD/STORY

HERE Out Now on itunes!

Please request on your Local Radio Station! Contact Allen 087 7946597 www.theheebiejeebiesband.com

facebook: the heebie jeebie’s band

Join the Irish LGBT Weddings family and advertise your business today.

The Absolute Hotel

Limerick’s premier urban wedding venue There aren’t a lot of options for style-conscious couples wanting a stylish wedding venue, but the Absolute Hotel in Limerick city is one of the best. This boutique hotel offers brides and grooms on the pulse with the latest trends everything they could want; modern décor, quirky table plans, the latest popular meal options, cocktails, personable service and an energetic atmosphere.

To take out an advert in our Spring 2016 issue or have your business listed on our website contact April Drew April@IrishLGBTWeddings.ie 085 8015278 www.IrishLGBTWeddings.ie Want to have your wedding or engagement story featured- email April@IrishLGBTweddings.ie

It has been named Limerick’s urban wedding venue of the year 2015, and it’s not hard to see why. Not only does the 4* hotel offer comfortable, stylish surroundings for couples, but it also provides a huge choice in wedding packages. These include His-Her, HisHis and Her-Her bundles. Prices start from an affordable €39pp for its Cosmopolitan package, which comes with a drinks reception and canapés, a five-course meal, wedding menu tasting, complimentary suite for the bride and groom, table centrepieces, and discounted room rates for guests. Its contemporary local menu is one of its main attractions and its canapé selection includes the likes of on-trend mini burgers, mini lamb pies and chicken satay. In addition to this, the Absolute Hotel has some fantastic surroundings, being minutes’ from Limerick’s classic landmarks such as, King John’s Castle and the iconic Thomond Park as well as overlooking the Abbey River. For now, relish the planning, enjoy the engagement and remember; the reason you are here is for love after all. T: 061 463 610 E: events@absolutehotel.com W: ww.absolutehotel.com

Find us on FB/Twitter Irish LGBT Weddings

15% Off 15% off until end of 15% Off September when you until end of 2015 mention September 2015 this ad You can now buy online from us at

www.ryansjewellers.ie

You can now buy online from us at

www.ryansjewellers.ie

“At the Earl of Desmond Hotel Tralee, All You Need is Love”

T: 053 9177431 E: info@alioprints.com

www.alioprints.com

EDITORIAL

TIPS FOR ENJOYING

YOUR WEDDING DAY

Love and Luxury at

the

Hotel & Spa 92

Welcoming up to 180 guests, the g Hotel & Spa, Galway City’s only five star property is a stunningly beautiful destination, one which evokes Hollywood glamour as well as luxury and romance. The g offers breath taking surroundings for your special day including the exquisite Grand Salon, adorned by over 300 twinkling mirrored balls together with Swarovski crystals, 19th century Italian fire places, the perfect backdrop for your drinks reception. Make your wedding dreams come true and let the team at g help to create an unforgettable day. Capturing the essence of vibrant Galway and located near the Claddagh for gorgeous scenic photos, the g Hotel & Spa features beautiful and unique spaces to say “I do” in style. 101 spacious guest rooms and suites provide modern luxury and warm hospitality for your wedding guests. The award winning team of chefs will tailor a menu to your culinary desires and the experienced g team will deliver expert care to make your special day truly exceptional. The stylish wedding suite at the g captures the enchanting elegance of the hotel. With a 1920’s art deco navy, white and silver colour scheme, the g Suite cleverly uses antique and modern mirrors to create an atmospheric space with its own private bar area. Arrange your wedding venue consultation with Rachel Shanaghy who, together the team at the g, will ensure your wedding day is a truly outstanding occasion. View the hotel and imagine your fantastic wedding photographs within the highly acclaimed décor. Experience the welcoming ambiance of the Signature Lounges designed by Philip Treacy. During your visit, see the luxury spa, ESPA at the g – voted top Hotel Spa in Ireland by Irish Tatler Magazine 2014 and the ideal choice for pre-wedding preparations and get-togethers. With all-inclusive packages available from €58.00 per person, contact wedding specialist, Rachel Shanaghy, on weddings@theg.ie to arrange your private consultation or call 091 778454.

Eat a good breakfast. It’ll be a long day so you’ll want to keep energized for all of it. Get your bridesmaids, groomsmen, groomsmaids or bridesmen to do as much as they can. They’re your best friends, so you can trust them to do anything you need them to. If you need things done on the day, let them know their duties beforehand so they know what you need and when. Make sure you have plenty of time to get ready You don’t want to be in a panicked rush on one of the most memorable days of your life, you don’t want to make it any more stressful for yourself by having to rush around because you haven’t given yourself enough time for everything. Make sure you write out a plan so you know exactly what time you’re doing everything that morning. Ladies, pack flats, Men, pack a back up When it’s the middle of the night and you’re out on the dance floor with your friends shaking all over to ‘Dancing Queen’ the last thing you want is to have to hobble off half way through because you can’t stand being in your shoes anymore. Make sure that you have a pair of gorgeous flats on hand (ladies) or a more comfortable pair of shoes, yes stylish ALWAYS, (men) that you can quickly change into if needs be. Give the DJ or band a set list No matter who you hire, you’re going to want to make sure they will play music for everyone to enjoy and that people will want to get up and dance to. And especially music that people will definitely know. Give your chosen entertainer a list of all the songs you definitely want played, but also give them some room for them to pick their own choices. Make sure to choose songs that you know everyone will enjoy and want to dance to. Dance! This is your day, don’t forget to have fun. You don’t want to see all of your friends having a great time out on the dance floor while you’re running about fussing over every little detail. Relax, have some fun. Spend some time with your partner The day may be a huge blur but don’t forget the reason you’re there in the first place! Spend some time with your new husband or wife at your own wedding reception and cherish the day that’s in it.

upcoming shows The Hub, Kilkenny

October 31st & November 1st 2015

Breaffy Events Arena, Castlebar February 20th & 21st 2016

Punchestown Racecourse

April 2nd & 3rd 2016

Limerick Racecourse A two day wedding extravaganza with a difference, great ideas and fabulous offers Fun, prizes and advice from the experts! TICKETS Book online at www.ultimateweddingslive.com or available at the door. 11-5pm both days.

www.ultimateweddingslive.com

October 1st & 2nd 2016

Scrum-thing O L D , N E W , B O R R OW E D , B LU E Joy Neville & Simona Coppola 21st June 2015

Dromquinna Manor in Kenmare, Co. Kerry

PRIDE & JOY

Photos courtesy of Poppies and Me

A BIT ABOUT THE COUPLE Joy Neville, former

ladies Ireland rugby captain and Six Nations Grand Slam winner, is the rugby development officer in Limerick Institute of Technology. Joy hails from the North Circular Road in Limerick and Simona Coppola, also a Limerick native, is a project manager at Intel. THE MEET Scott’s bar three years ago THE PROPOSAL “We spoke about getting married a year into the relationship and planned on getting engaged March of 2014 however Simona surprised me and proposed Christmas 2013. We were attending the Independent Annual Sports Awards in the Wesbury Hotel in Dublin. Simona booked us into the Wesbury for the night where the ring appeared soon after the function that day,” recalls Joy fondly. WEDDING DATE June 21, 2015 WEDDING VENUE Dromquinna Manor in Kenmare, Co. Kerry “A fabulous location with amazing views and extremely friendly and helpful staff. The staff are extremely helpful but most of all the owners John and Gwen Brennan were just a pleasure to work with they made our day very special,” said Simona HOW MANY GUESTS? 109 guests WEDDING DRESSES Both purchased in Aibheil in Adare. “Throughout the process Simona and I booked separate appointments and made it aware to the staff in Aibhel that we would not be revealing the dresses to each other until the day of the wedding. Challenge number one was to ensure that we didn’t pick the same dress.”

FLOWERS Simona’s aunt Wilma Arcai made the flower bouquets and arrangements

CAKE Simona’s mum and aunt made the cake PHOTOGRAPHER Poppies and Me WHO OFFICIATED THE CEREMONY? Marian Purcell FAVOURITE MEMORY “We will never forget the ceremony, it’s was extremely personal, emotional and filled with love.” HONEYMOON Four days in Rome and 12 days in Southern Italy. “I was informed that since I’m marrying into the Italian family, we had to honeymoon the Italian way,” said Joy. SPECIAL BITS “We steered clear of a traditional wedding, The

ceremony content was personal to us and had both our oldest brothers make speeches on behalf of our families. This worked out really well. They brought a different twist to the speeches they were fun, young, and emotional; the perfect mix. Also it was nice having the ceremony and the reception at the same venue,” said Simona

photo courtesy of Noel Hogan

PERSONAL TOUCHES “We created our ceremony with Marian, we chose poems and readings that we wanted to use on the day. We asked our families would they like to write a personal piece and read it out at the ceremony. My nephew Finn (aged 8) wrote a piece with his mum Lynda and Simona’s niece Alessia (aged 8) also wrote something with her mum Lorraine. Both pieces were written about us and were very touching,” recalls Simona. “We both decided to write our own vows and read them out instead of using the generic I do’s. We felt that this way allowed us speak from the heart and say what we felt for each other.” Simona adds, “A few of my friends wrote a funny poem about Joy and I as a couple, which they read out after we tied the knot and also Joys mum Mary picked a beautiful piece that she read out to conclude the ceremony. For us we wanted the ceremony to embrace all our guests, it was a mixture of emotions to say the least.”

ANYTHING ELSE “We would like to get across that our

special day was made by our wonderful friends and family. Simona and I are extremely close to both our families and without their unconditional love and support we would not have a story to tell today. They completely embraced our day and have always recognized our love for each other. We are extremely fortunate to have them all in our lives.”

Same Sex RINGS Handmade rings for same sex couples

With You All The Way C. CLARKE JEWELLERS FIRV. GG(GIA) AJP(GIA) PJ Val Dip., RJ Dip., Pearl Graduate (GIA)

7 Royal Hibernian Way, Dawson St. Dublin 2 Tel: 01 677 7161 Web: www.samesexrings.ie

Established over 30 years ago, Carol Clarke and company have been designing and making engagement rings and wedding rings for same sex couples and have won many awards for our designs. We work around your idea and your budget. You can see a small selection of rings on our website. We were the first jewellers in Ireland to set up a website devoted to same sex rings. We have made rings for many high profile gay couples and made the engagement ring for Mr. Gay Europe, Robbie Oâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;Bara. Call in if you want something handmade, a bit different, or just unique.

DJ Jessie Oâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;Brien Offering your choice of music from all genres for your party or special event.

All day music and venue lighting packages including welcome music, ceremony music, drinks reception, background music for dining and music to fill the dance floor!

A real DJ with years of clubbing experience

Donagh Glavin Photographer

Capturing the Spirt of your Wedding Day Telephone: 086-1722223 Email: info@donaghglavin.com

www.donaghglavin.com

Evening only packages also available...

Contact: 087-4407049 085-7610071

ENGAGED

Love blossomed from a night on the tiles f o r A n d y G i l bert a n d A i d a n Ma n i o n By Michaela Keating Andy Gilbert and Aidan Manion’s love story began on a night out.

lots of time together in each other company. We knew we were made for each other,” Andy fondly remembers.

THE BOYS

“Aidan is a very happy, loving, outgoing guy. He loves musicals and has been in several musicals over the years in his local musical society. He is the relaxed person in the relationship, never any panic with Aidan, he is very chilled out and this works well in our relationship. He likes to leave clothes on the ground in what he calls his “floordrobe” which eventually gets cleaned up,” shares Andy.

Despite Andy’s jibes at Aidan’s not-so-pristine housekeeping, Aidan has only good words for his husband-to-be and appreciates all of his hobbies and interests.

A BIT ABOUT THE COUPLE Andy is from Ballyfermot, Dublin and Aidan is originally from Ballinasloe, Co. Galway. The couple now live together in Fairview, Dublin. Aidan works as a care assistant and Andy works in the bank.

THE MEET Andy was out when his friend Sarah asked him to go to The Dragon. Aidan had a tough week in college so a few drinks were in order. Andy was out in the smoking area with Sarah reminiscing about their time in Australia and when Sarah went to get a drink at the bar, Aidan came over to Andy and asked could he put his drink down beside Andy’s. Andy himself cherishes the memories of those early days. “We both got on really well that night and shared a kiss. From there we went on a couple of dates and our relationship developed into becoming boyfriends. We met each other’s families and friends and spent

“Andy is a very caring, loving guy. He has a love of rugby, I never used to watch it or never understood the rules but now I really enjoy watching it with him on a high stool is a plus. My family are mad about him. He is very particular, organised, and likes to keep a close eye on his finances, that’s why he loves his job,” Aidan says fondly.

THE PROPOSAL Wanting to take their relationship to the next level, Andy decided he was going to pop the question. He bought the rings and decided to bring Aidan out for dinner to celebrate his new job. The Ballyfermot native booked the local restaurant Farmer Browns in Ballsbridge which was one of their first dates and there, that night with others watching Aidan said a big fat “YES” to Andy’s proposal.

WEDDING PLANS On August 18, 2017 Aidan and Andy will turn their relationship into a marriage. “We are having a big family event which will no doubt last all weekend, there’s still plenty of planning going on with lots of exciting times ahead,” they shared.

“This day for was a very special day for both of us, we had already made our plans to have a civil partnership but with the marriage equality bill it means we can be legally married and equal. “Andy asked his best friend Kellie to be his best woman for the wedding”. The day of the results we went to Limerick to visit friends and Aidan asked his best friend Daniel to be his best man so it was a double celebration. It was a joyous day with family and friends ringing us to celebrate the good news. Both our families were delighted with the result and can’t wait for our big day,” said Aidan.

WHAT DID MAY 22, 2015 MEAN FOR YOU BOTH?

EDITORIAL Magical memories made at the

BRINGING YOU THE SOUND OF THE SIXTIES Cellbridge, Co. Kildare The Village at Lyons is a truly unique wedding destination, often described as elegant, magical and enchanting. Just a short drive from Dublin, The Village was lovingly restored with no expense spared as part of the complete renovation of the Lyons Demesne by Ryanair founder Tony Ryan. The Village comprises of accommodation of 38 Guest suites, many with four posters, including exquisitely decorated cottages, apartments, a cookery school, Canal café and La Serre Restaurant. The Village is once again thriving just like the halcyon days when barges were the primary transportation system for the country and The Village was a primary stop off point at Lock 13. The Village at Lyons cater for numbers of 50- 200 and customise each and every wedding to suit the couple.

100

Call Fiona today 086 313 0184 dionnesband@gmail.com

www.thedionnes.ie

How do you want to remember your wedding day?

The beautiful Mill, once owned by a member of the Shackleton family, where the wedding banquets are held is a spectacular double height space with seating capacity for up to 200 guests. The rooms panelled walls are offset by a soft and relaxing palette of neutral shades, while the dramatic 17th century fireplace and soothing sounds of the waterfall add to the uniqueness of the room. The courtyard features a stunning dovecot, home to five pairs of white doves, adding that extra special fairytale element to any couple’s big day makes for a truly romantic setting. The Village at Lyons is an intimate private and near exclusive venue for couples looking for something very different to what a typical hotel has to offer. We encourage our couples to make the Village their home for the duration of their time with us and to decorate the Mill to make it more personal and to help our team to deliver a truly tailored experience. The Village is also a very popular venue for civil ceremonies. There are a number of possibilities to conduct the ceremony including the beautiful walled garden or the stunning Turner designed conservatory makes for a truly memorable experience. The Wedding fayre is of a very high standard which is a legacy of the fine dining Mill restaurant and its team of chefs. If you are a foodie the Village is acknowledged as one of the finest wedding banquet specialists and its main kitchen the envy of many a chef. So before you so ‘I do’, checkout the Village at Lyons for a memorable experience with lots of breathtaking moments and explore your options with the wedding team.

www.davidmcauleyphotography.ie weddings@davidmcauleyphotography.ie

086 8145359 DavidMcAuleyPhotography

@dmcaphotography

“From the start, we were on the lookout for a venue suited to intimate weddings. When we saw The Village at Lyons‘website we had a really good feeling about it and could not believe I used to live down the road from it in Celbridge without knowing it existed! We went for a sneaky visit to its Canal Café for lunch to check out the food and service and were blown away, so we booked a viewing. The staff were really enthusiastic and accommodating at the prospect of hosting both ceremonies in one day so this really put our minds at ease. It also had beautiful accommodation for our guests and had full wheelchair access. Each time we visited the venue, we fell in love with something else; the beautiful waterfall you can see during dinner, the quirky chimney, a big gnarled tree in the garden and the doves nesting above the courtyard. It is just magical! The staff went above and beyond to make our day perfect. We cannot praise them highly enough.” The Village at Lyons Ltd, Celbridge, Co.Kildare. T: 01 630 3500 E: info@villageatlyons.com Web: www.villageatlyons.com

Let Lovin Letters Light up your life

To love beauty is to see light Call us on 087 2469086 Email: Linda@lovinletters.com

101

www.lovinletters.com

Vi l l a g e at

Have your wedding in our stunning Village catering from 50-200 guests

Lyons

Phone (01) 630 3500

www.villageatlyons.com

If it’s uniqueness and romance you’re after then you’ve found it Celbridge, Co. Kildare

info@villageatlyons.com

S U O L E MARV eclan Doody for Alan Doyle

D y b L A S O PROP

102

By Michael Counihan Declan Doody’s father had been in a near fatal accident resulting in an extended period in hospital. There were times when Declan really believed this could be the last time he would see his father alive. The support Declan received from his loving partner Alan Doyle helped him through the tough time. “That was when I realised that I was going to spend the rest of my life with Alan. He didn’t even have to say anything, he just held my hand for as long as I needed him to. And I knew it was going to be ok. He was my pillar of support through one of the toughest times of my life,” Declan shares with Irish LGBT Weddings. After a series of successful operations, Declan’s father fortunately made a full recovery and Declan in his heart it was time to ask Alan to marry him. “We will be together five years this December. We had mentioned marriage before, sometimes jokingly to test each other’s reaction, but more recently because we knew it was what we both wanted,” Declan said. The success of the Yes Vote in May made the dream of marriage a reality for same sex couples in Ireland. “Our families are proud of us and proud of who we are, and now they can share in our wedding day like any other,”Alan said. Declan, an office manager, from Limerick, had been planning the proposal for a few months. Both Declan and Alan, an insights analyst originally from Portlaoise, describe themselves as “into books, gaming, graphic novels, and comics.” It was this shared interest that lead to Declan proposing in a really unique way. Declan explains, “Alan isn’t into ‘big and loud’. I knew intimate and personal would be what he would want. So I decided to write a comic book for him. I wrote each page to tell a personal story from our relationship so far and then a few of our closest friends helped transform these stories into a comic book effect. That way each page was a different style created by people important to us both”. Declan then cooked a romantic dinner at home. “After we had finished dinner I handed Alan the gift wrapped comic. I was so nervous; I don’t think I have ever drank red wine so fast”. The last scene in the comic book was of Alan and Declan seated in their home with a cooked dinner and the words ‘Issue Two Coming Soon……. Hopefully’ blazed across the page. Alan recalls “Declan dropped to one knee and presented a ring. The minute I saw it I instantly cried and just kept repeating ‘yes’. It was perfect”. The ring is a black Tungsten stone embedded with a single sapphire. With the big question finally asked, there is now a wedding to plan. Declan and Alan have decided to give themselves a few years to organise their big day. “We want to enjoy being engaged” Alan said, “to give ourselves the time to make the day perfect. We’re planning a winter wedding and ideally we want snow to fall. We have always been so lucky to have the support of our family and friends and we want them to play a role on our wedding day.” Both grooms to be will have a best man and a maid of honour each. “We haven’t decided yet who is going to walk each of us down the aisle, or if we will even include that tradition, we might just take that step together.” One thing the boys are sure of is that Declan is going to wear a kilt. “I have always wanted to wear a kilt, and marrying the man I love is the best excuse I can think of.”

103

Ruthie Regular font Cochin

Samantha Harding Wedding And Event Planner t. 00353(0)86 171 5035 e. samantha@samanthahardingevents.com

www.samanthahardingevents.com

PRIDE & JOY

Kate and Billie celebrate Y es v o te by getti n g e n gage d Kate Stoica and Billie made headlines on May 23 when the couple got engaged after the announcement of the passing of the referendum. They spoke to EngaGAYged Ireland to tell us their story.

104

The background: Kate and Billie first met in a professional capacity and became friends. After years of different relationships and time apart, the girls realised it was meant to be. “We both realised we meant more to each other than just friends. We decided to give it a go and here we are six and a half years later still giving it a go and loving it.” Kate says that Billie, who doesn’t have a surname as she legally changed it some years ago, is a free spirit and ‘always puts herself last’. “Billie’s love is accepting and loyal, she has shown me how to love myself, what else can I say, she is the love of my life!” Billie who proposed to Kate says that her fiancée is ‘fiercely passionate’. “She’s a superhero; a multifaceted testament to inner strength and determination.” It was on May 23 that the girls’ dream came true as the same sex marriage referendum was passed. Kate was shocked when Billie popped the question once the final results were revealed. The proposal Kate recalls the moments leading up to the proposal. “Standing in the counting house, I was tallying the papers as they came out of the ballot boxes, and had many boxes that were NO. Billie was counting and recording the tallies from everyone’s boxes so had a clearer idea of the bigger scheme of things. My mum arrived, and whilst I was very happy to see her, I remember questioning Billie about why she had come out to the counting house, because I thought we were meeting her later. The last vote from Limerick was tallied and a big cheer went up, the next thing I know Billie took my hand and asked me to go with her. She guided me to a corner of the room where our friend Ann played Bruno Mars, ‘Just The Way You Are’, and I started to ask her “what’s happening”. Billie took both of my hands and got down on one knee and asked if I would marry her. I was totally shocked and completely delighted, I could barely answer her, but somehow I managed to indicate my yes! She gave me the ring and the next thing there was cheers and rose petals everywhere.”

The girls were ecstatic with the result and celebrated their engagement with their friends and fellow ‘Yes’ campaigners that night. “It was amazing to have all of our old and new friends, who had campaigned tirelessly alongside us, through rain, hail and shine, there to celebrate something that meant so much to so many people. It was truly a momentous day, for the whole of Ireland, for our community, for generations of young people to come and on a personal level for us.” The wedding Kate and Billie have not made any specific arrangements as of yet but plan on having a laid-back wedding day. “We do know that we would like a relaxed, easy going wedding. We are enjoying the idea of a festival theme, with a hand fasting and a barbeque.” However what they are wearing is hugely important to the couple on their big day. Kate wants to remain traditional in a white wedding dress while Billie would like to wear a kilt to show the culture of Scotland, her birth place. As both of the ladies work with children, they play a vital part in their lives, Kate and Billie have no plans to start a family. “We currently have no children and although we both love them, have no plans for any. I have a passion for working with children and their families; we could both see ourselves fostering children in the future.” The couple are currently enjoying their engagement and patiently waiting for the day same sex marriage is made into law. “For now our plan is to wait until the law comes in, fix a date, look at venues and hopefully plan for an August wedding in 2016. In the mean time we will have fun and cherish each other!”

competition would you like to win a €1200 digital wedding photography package ? This prize is sponsored by David McLean of DMC Photography and includes... Photography of your preparations in the lead up to your wedding ceremony including the arrival of the couple for the ceremony.

Discreet photography during the wedding ceremony covering all the main elements of the ceremony as well as the atmosphere and emotions.

Those special moments as you greet your family and friends after the ceremony.

Couple and wedding party photography at your choice of locations either at the reception venue or a favourite location elsewhere.

Any family and group photography that you wish.

Casual/candid photography as you mingle with your family and friends before you sit for your celebration meal.

Photographs of the speeches and the reactions of your guests to them.

Fun photos around the tables with a large empty picture frame after the meal.

Photos of the first few dances as you and your guests really get down to enjoying the craic of your special day.

10.

A framed signature board photograph which is a photograph taken during the day at your wedding which I edit, print at a size of 30cm x 20cm, mount and present in a 60cm x 50cm frame ready for your guests to sign around the border during the evening.

11.

A set of two presentation photos for your parents, these are photographs of the two of you with your parents taken during the day which I edit, print at a size of 25cm x 20cm and mount in elegant 35cm x 30cm frames ready for you to give as special gifts to your parents during the evening.

How to enter S i m p ly a n S w e r t h i S q u e S t i o n On what date did the people of Ireland vote in the referendum to legalise same sex marriage in Ireland? Send your answer along with the date of your wedding to April@IrishLGBTWeddings.ie

Terms and conditions: The competition will run until January 15, 2016.

12.

Your photos all fully edited (approx. 700 + photos) within 4 weeks of your wedding.

The winner will be chosen at random by an independent adjucator.

13.

Your photos presented to you on your choice of USB, either a crystal encrusted Memory Heart or a specially personalised USB from which you can create your own wedding album or order prints afterwards.

The marriage must take place on the Island of Ireland.

14.

A 12 month calendar featuring your favourite wedding photos.

By entering the competition you consent to receiving special offers or promotional material from DMC Photography and or Irish LGBT Weddings.

15.

A private password protected wedding gallery hosted on my website for 12 months so that family and friends abroad and at home can view your photos.

There is no wedding album included in the prize package however there is an option to add an album and or parent albums to the package at the winner’s expense.

The entry is open to all couples planning a same sex marriage in 2016/2017 regardless of whether they are currently living in Ireland or abroad. The date chosen for the marriage must be a date on which David McLean of DMC Photography does not already have a confirmed booking for photography. Entry is not open to couples who have already confirmed a booking with David McLean of DMC Photography before the start date of the competition.

No cash alternative is available instead of the advertised prize package.

A selection of the photographs taken on the day of the marriage may be displayed on the website/Facebook pages of DMC Photography and or Irish LGBT Weddings and the Irish LGBT Weddings Magazine

Visit www.dmcphotography.ie to see more of David McLean’s outstanding wedding photography

105

EDITORIAL Celebrate your special day at

Mount Wolseley Hotel, Spa & Golf Resort Mount Wolseley is the jewel in the crown of wedding venues in the South East. Centrally located within an hour from Dublin, Kilkenny and Waterford, Mount Wolseley Hotel, Spa & Golf Resort offers the perfect fairy tale setting for weddings, civil ceremonies and civil partnerships. With its sweeping tree lined drive and stunning manicured grounds, this magnificent resort hotel provides a perfect backdrop for your special day. The experienced team are renowned for their professionalism, working closely with couples from the initial enquiry stage right up to the big day. With incredibly affordable packages from just €55.00 per person or a more tailored bespoke wedding package designed for you, the resort has something for every couple. Their promise to you is a dedicated, professional and committed team to make your dreams become a reality. They will take care of you and your guests from start to finish and your wedding coordinator is on call for you at all times.

106

Private viewings can take place at a time to suit your own schedule. Mount Wolseley Hotel, Spa & Golf Resort, Tullow, Co. Carlow. Tel: 059 9180100 Web: www.mountwolseley.ie Email: weddings@mountwolseley.ie

Callyboo is a family business ran by siblings Paul and Barabara. Paul has always been good with his hands so he started making wooden signs as gifts for friends and family and was surprised when he got such fantastic feedback on his work. Pretty soon the friends and family, and their friends and family, started asking him to make different signs for them for all sorts of occasions, as well as house signs and even commercial signs; all personalised and specially made. Pretty soon Paul was spending so much time making signs he decided to do it full time, so he left his job and set up his own business. Paul’s sister Barbara was very impressed with the quality of the signs Paul was making. Eventually she hatched a cunning plan to bring Paul’s wonderful products to a wider audience. She set up Callyboo to showcase Paul’s products and to bring that extra touch of fun and sparkle to everyone’s special days. “We have a big extended family and we love to celebrate all those marvellous family events, from special wedding days to birthdays, anniversaries; in fact anything that you and yours enjoy celebrating! So here we are, spreading the joy. Each sign is unique and handmade with love to your specifications to bring that special dash of fun to whatever the occasion. Handmade in Ireland with love www.callyboo.com

Out with the old Michaela Keating talks us through some of the most popular wedding trends and top tips for same sex couples planning their big day! Wedding party Many same sex couples opt not to have a wedding party with bridesmaids or groomsmen (or groomsmaids and bridesmen, whatever the case may be!). Couples are more likely to be escorted down the aisle by a family member or close friend. Walking down the aisle together has also become more popular and is a sign of unity from the beginning of the ceremony. Honeymooners Once you’ve gotten hitched, you and your new husband or wife will want to head off on your intimate trip for two to celebrate your marriage. Unfortunately, some destinations would not be most welcoming to same sex couples, so before booking a destination it may be worthwhile to research places that would be accepting to you publicising your love. Places such as Hawaii are the perfect chill out spots for the honeymoon of a lifetime, with the comfort of knowing you can have as much PDA’s as possible! Surnames Traditionally, the bride would take the grooms surname during their wedding ceremony. For same sex couples, the choice is theirs, whether they keep their own name or take on their spouses, there are no rules. Before same sex marriage became legalised, the procedure to change names would have been far more difficult. But since the country voted Yes back in May, we don’t need to worry about all that hassle anymore. Whoo! Finding the perfect vendors Since the majority of the wedding industry was over-joyed with the result of the same sex marriage referendum, finding vendors that will provide a top notch service for your wedding day should be a piece of cake. From cake makers to invitation designers, most wedding professionals have adapted versions of their product to include couples of all varieties, whether they be gay or straight. If you encounter an unfortunate circumstance in which a vendor isn’t comfortable to work with a same sex couple, take your business elsewhere. The last thing you need to kill the excitement of your big day is one piece of negativity. Find someone who would be more than happy to make your wedding dreams come true. Performing the ceremony For many couples, having an intimate day is far more important than anything else. Ensuring that all their closest friends and family play a part in their wedding on the day is crucial, so why not start with who will perform the ceremony? Choosing a mutual friend that has been with you and supportive from the beginning will add the personal touch to your day. Look into ways to get them ordained online and make sure you select an option that will make sure your marriage is legally recognised afterwards. Also check out Jayesta Ceremonies who can look after this for you. www.jayestaceremonies.com

Theatre Royal, The Mall, Waterford Tel: 051 853626

“The Theatre Royal was beautiful. A period building full of character. It was amazing to get married amongst art and history and culture. The staff, especially Patsy and Kelly, were very attentive and during the ceremony they asked if they could take a photo to put on their website as we were the first same sex wedding they had hosted,” Jolene and Aine.

@theatreroyalw

www.theatreroyal.ie 107

theatreroyal

Your special day...

...just got better!

Personalised displays for your top table, cake table or gift station Tell us your names, choose a finish and we’ll do the rest. Perfect!

Handmade in Ireland with love

www.callyboo.com

Wedding Favours By Michaela Keating

Everyone loves wedding favours, they’re that small piece of the day that leaves your guests feeling welcomed and thanked. Favours can add that personal touch to your wedding day, so here are some of our favourites.

108

Candles Who doesn’t love a scented vanilla candle warming the room? Everyone loves candles and giving out miniature candles on your wedding day as a favour is the perfect way to keep the flame alive (pardon the pun), for many hours after the big day! Jam A jam or preservative is the perfect sweet treat for guests to take home. Spread the love with your granny’s famous recipe and make a batch of homemade goodness your guests will be raving about afterwards. Pick up some mini jam jars and use a cutely designed or professional looking label on the front for that extra special touch. Sweets If you’re not exactly Nigella in the kitchen, sweets are the perfect treat for your guests to enjoy throughout the day. Invest in tubs to hold them in and do a raid on the goodies aisle and stock them up with sweet treats. Having a candy cart supplier at the venue is also a good idea with far less DIY involved. A pashmina or fan This one is of course weather dependent, but whether getting hitched in the splitting sun or crisp cold, your guests will appreciate you keeping the comfortable . Flip flops Consider the ladies at your wedding for this one. Once the DJ comes on the heels go off so provide a pair of flip flops for them to keep the feet comfy and dance the night away! They will thank you for it and it will help keep the dance floor full all night. Flower Seeds A trend that has really taken off in recent years, this ecofriendly gift is perfect for nature lovers. Giving your guests plant seeds to plant themselves will leave them with a memory of your special day in their own homes for some time after, giving them something to smile about. Personalised messages for your guests DIY a mini clothes line and use Mr and Mr or Mrs and Mrs clothes pegs to hang on personal messages for your guests. Although this may be a time consuming task in the lead up to the big day, your guests will appreciate you going the extra mile and feel touched that you went to so much effort to welcome them on your wedding day. This can also be used as a seating plan, by hanging the list of names per table with the clothes peg.

EDITORIAL

AVON RI LAKESHORE RESORT AND LEISURE CENTRE

Avon Ri is a very unique lakeshore resort, just outside Blessington, Co Wicklow (15 mins from M50). With spectacular views overlooking Blessington Lake and Wicklow Mountains, our wedding team would be delighted to discuss and organise a personalised package to suit your individual needs and budget. No request is too big or too small. Alternatively our ‘Lady of the Lake’ package is available based on a minimum of 80 guests, with two bright suites available to hold your banqueting meal also with views overlooking Blessington Lakes. Ceremonies can be inside or out! Why not have your ceremony on our Heli pad and take in the breath taking scenery. With our one wedding per day policy, Isobel our onsite wedding coordinator would love to meet with you to discuss details of your big day further. Avon RÍ Blessington Lakeshore, Burgage, Blessington, Co. Wicklow www.avonri.com Tel: +353 (0) 45 900 670

EDITORIAL Luxury Weddings at

The Inn at Dromoland Nestled in the wooded countryside on the Dromoland Estate and overlooking the panoramic Shannon Estuary, The Inn at Dromoland is the ideal venue for your wedding day celebrations. Part of the Dromoland Castle family, our wedding couples can expect the very highest levels of hospitality and service. Our aim is to exceed every expectation, with the renowned service for which the hotel has long been known. The hotel has undergone extensive refurbishment with our events facilities, along with 130 of our 155 bedrooms receiving full renovations, including the wonderful bridal suite. Pre and post wedding day packages are also on offer in the newest addition, Shannigans Gastro Pub. Our new packages, starting from €42 per person, have been carefully selected to ensure that your wedding Day will linger in the memory of your Guests for years to come. Our promise to you; we only cater for one wedding per day. This means that our couples and their guests will have our undivided attention for their entire day. For civil ceremonies and partnerships, we offer a choice of two suites, The Patio Room and The Sun Lounge, both offering natural daylight and flexibility to accommodate up to 120 guests. The Ballyhannon Suite can also be offered should your numbers be above that and the suite can then be transformed into your wedding banquet suite following the ceremony. To make an appointment please call 061 368161 or email claire.coughlan@theinnatdromoland.ie to arrange a convenient time to view. The Inn at Dromoland, Newmarket on Fergus, Co. Clare, Ireland Tel: 353 61 368161 E: info@theinnatdromoland.ie Web: www.theinnatdromoland.ie

We offer FREE engagement shoots to anyone who books with us!

email: info@lifeofreillyphotography.com facebook.com/lifeofreillyphotograpy

www.lifeofreillyphotography.com

109

Contact: Justin Reilly 086 8139123 Life of Reilly Photography

Richard

Hayes Create Your Unique Wedding Atmosphere with Irelandâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Premier Baritone & Harpist

Dr Richard Hayes info@richardhayes.ie 085 131 9720

www.richardhayes.ie

Weddings at The Palace

Hidden Wedding Costs You might think you know exactly what your wedding is going to cost you and your partner but, as with most things, there are always going to be hidden costs. We’re going to give you a guide to spot these costs and where they tend to come from to prevent you from getting caught out.

At The Palace it is the little touches, together with the central location, the most elegant of banqueting suites one can ask for, accompanied with refined food and sterling service, which allow us to create the perfect moments for your wedding day to mark the beginning of your life together.

Stamps

So as your family and friends raise their glasses to toast your marriage we will be standing proudly overseeing your flawless celebration.

Although the price of a stamp isn’t much, the price for 200 can be. If your invitations are being done for you or ordered online, companies might not always tell you about shipping costs, which can vary depending on the size and bulk of your invitations. To prevent this surprise cost, make sure you inquire about postage costs before confirming any order. Or else just find ask at your local post office how much it will be to send each one. Some invites are super bulky so it may be more than the price of one stamp.

Entertainment equipment 110

The Palace, a 5 star urban boutique hotel offers a variety of exclusive venues ranging from the unique 200 year old Palazzo Capua and Alexandra Gardens, The Royal Hall, The State Hall, The Tabloid, and the rooftop TemptAsian Lounge which has spectacular views of Sliema and our capital city, Valletta. All these venues have been designed from concept to décor stage in order to ensure the perfect setting for such an important day.

When a band gives you a price, it’s usually for their service with a certain amount of equipment. If your reception area is large with a large stage, they might need more speakers or amplifiers to make their sound better; something that you’ll have to fork out for. Before booking anyone, make sure to tell them about the size of the venue so they don’t turn up on the day looking for more equipment.

Rental transport

Rental companies might not always include the price of transport in the official cost for whatever you’re renting, especially when you will probably need them to transport the item(s) for you. For example maybe you’re hiring a marquee from Limerick but your wedding is in Donegal. Make sure to ask about this price in advance so you don’t end up with a hidden cost on the day that you mightn’t be able to afford.

Dress/suit alterations

Wedding dress shops might boast about the fact that they do alterations also, but they don’t boast about the fact that the alteration comes at a price, and it can be a steep one! Most suit shops also have in-house tailors but again you need to clarify the cost. Make sure when you’re getting a price for any alterations that you get the price for each individual change you need done, in order to get the full cost then and there and not be left with any surprise extras in the end.

Overtime

When you book your band or DJ, make sure that they know how long that they’ll be playing for. If you think that your party is going to go on for a long while, make sure to tell them that and give them a big time window so they can give you an accurate cost for how long they’ll be playing for.

www.thepalacemalta.com

LGBT VENDOR INDEX a

and Fete

Gleesons Goldsmiths

Protocol for men

Heebie Jeebies

Richard Hayes

Alio Prints

Ballymurn, Co. Wexford Tel 053 9177431 Email info@alioprints.com www.alioprints.com

b Big Day Films

The Basement, Tel 087 6655882 Email Richard@bigday.ie www.bigdayfilms.ie

Blacktie Magician

Ballycasey Craft & Design Centre, Shannon, Co. Clare, Ireland Tel 061 364 115 Email info@gleesongoldsmiths.ie www.glessonsgoldsmiths.ie

Tel 087 7946597 Email info@theheebiejeebiesband.com www.theheebiejeebiesband.com

Hollywood LED Letters Tel 086 0378100 Email info@hollywoodletters.ie www.hollywoodletters.ie

Tel 083 1733379 Email info@blacktiemagician.com www.blacktiemagician.com

Kate Deegan

Callyboo

www.callyboo.com

Cardam Photography

Damien Cardam Tel 086 7222252 Email cardamphotography@yahoo.com www.cardamphotography.com

Cornude Artisan Popcorn Tel 086 0258125 Email info@cornude.ie www.cornude.ie

d David McCauley Photography

Tel 086 8145359 Email weddings@davidmcauleyphotography.ie www.davidmcauleyphotography.ie

David McClean Photography

Tel 086 0684415 Email smiles@ dmcphotgrpahy.ie www.dmcphotgrpahy.ie

Ennis, Co. Clare, Ireland. Tel 086 8220 300 Email info@co-me.net www.co-me.net

l Life of Reilly Photography

Tel 086 8139123 Email info@lifeofreillyphotography.com www.lifeofreillyphotography.com

Limelight Wedding Stationery Tel 087 9890555 Email info@limelightdesign.ie

Lovin letters

Tel 0872469086 Email Linda@lovinletters.com www.lovinletters.com

m Mackey Coaches

42 Dawson Street, Dublin Tel 01 6336806 (Dawson St. Store) Tel 01 8107453 (Swords Store) Email info@protocolformen.ie www.protocolformen.ie

085 131 9720 Email info@richardhayes.ie www.richardhayes.ie

Ryan’s Jewellers

The Diamond People, 44 Roches St, Limerick Tel 061 417 828 www.ryansjewellers.ie

s Samantha Harding

Harding Wedding and events Tel 086 171 5035 Email samantha@samanthahardingevents.com www.samanthahardingevents.com

Same Sex Rings

7 Royal Hibernian Way, Dawson St. Dublin 2 Tel 01 677 7161 www.samesexrings.ie

Stalks and Stems Florist

Cooracle, Kilrush, Co. Clare. & Whitehell, Parteen, Limerick. Tel 087 1272225 Email info@stalksandstemsflorist.ie www.stalksandstemsflorist.ie

t The Dionnes

Tel 086 313 0184 Email dionnesband@gmail.com www.thedionnes.ie

DJ Jessie

Donickmore, Dungourney, (Midleton/Tallow road), Co. Cork, Tel 086 252 9136 Email mackeycoaches@gmail.com www.mackeycoaches.com

DJ Stevie Dee

NF Cakes

Win Our Wedding

Tel 087 4407049 / 085 7610071 Tel 086 250 4212 Email info@steviedee.com www.djsteviedee.ie

Donagh Glavin Photography Tel 086 1722223 Email info@donaghglavin.com www.donaghglavin.com

132 Longboat Quay North,Sir John Rogerson’s Quay, Dublin 2 Tel 087 285 8888 Email info@nfcakes.ie www.nfcakes.ie

The Invite Hub

Tel 086 8114733 Email sinead@theinvitehub.com www.theinvitehub.com

www.winourwedding.ie

111

Tel 087 4573762 Email andfete@gmail.com www.andfete.com

LGBT VENUE INDEX Absolute Hotel & Spa

Clarion Hotel Sligo

Avon Ri

Cromleach Lodge

Ballyroe Heights Hotel

Earl of Desmond Hotel

Sir Harrys Mall, Limerick Tel 061 463610 Email Events@absolutehotel.com www.absolutehotel.com

112

Blessington Lakeshore, Burgage, Blessington, Co. Wicklow Tel 045 900 670 Email ishannon@avonri.com www.avonri.com

Ballyroe, Tralee, Co. Kerry Tel 066 7126796 Email info@ballyroe.com www.ballyroe.com

Boyne Hill Estate

Kilcarn, Navan, Co Meath Tel 046 903 1247 Email info@boynehillhouse.ie www.boynehillhouse.ie

Bunratty Castle Hotel

Bunratty, Co. Clare Tel 061 478 700 Email weddings@bunrattycastelhotel.com www.bunrattycastlehotel.com

Castletroy Park Hotel University Gates, Dublin Road, Limerick, Ireland Tel 061 335566 Email weddings@castletroypark.ie www.castletroypark.ie

Clarion Road, Ballinode Tel 071 9119003 Email cnicholson@clarionhotelsligo.com www.clarionhotelsligo.com

4 Country House Hotel and CiĂşnas Spa, Lough Arrow, Castlebaldwin, County Sligo Tel 07191 65155 Email info@cromleach.com Web www.cromleach.com

Tralee, Co. Kerry Tel 066 7121299 Email marketing@earlofdesmond.com www.earlofdesmond.com

Fitzgeralds Woodlands House Hotel and Spa

Adare, Co. Limerick Tel 061 605101 Email weddings@woodlands-hotel.ie www.woodlands-hotel.ie

Kilshane House

County Tipperary Tel 062 82444 EmailÂ info@kilshanehouse.ie Web www.kilshanehouse.ie

Mallow, Co. Cork Tel 022 47156 Email info@longuevillehouse.ie www.longuevillehouse.ie

Theatre Royal

The Mall, Co. Waterofrd Tel 051 853626 Email manager@theatreroyal.ie www.theatreroyal.ie

Lough Rynn Castle

The Inn at Dromoland

Mount Wolseley Hotel, Spa & Golf Resort

The G Hotel & Spa

Mohill, Co Leitrim Tel 071 9632700 Email enquiries@loughrynn.ie www.loughrynn.ie

Tullow, County Carlow Tel 059 91 80100 Email info@mountwolseley.ie www.mountwolseley.ie

Muckross Park Hotel

Muckross Park Hotel, Muckross, Killarney, Co. Kerry Tel 064 6623400 Email bodonoghue@muckrosspark.com www.muckrosspark.com

Newmarket on Fergus, Co Clare Tel 061 368161 Email info@theinnatdromoland.ie www.theinnatdromoland.ie

Galway City Tel 091 865200 Email weddings@theg.ie www.theghotel.ie

The Palace Hotel, Malta High Street, Sliema SLM 1542, Malta Tel 00 356 2262 Email events.palace@axhotelsmalta.com www.thepalacemalta.com

National Gallery of Ireland

Thomond Park

Shamrock Lodge Hotel

Village at Lyons

Merrion Square West, Dublin 2 Tel 01 661 5133 Email sleahy@ngi.ieÂ www.nationalgallery.ie

Clonown Rd, Athlone, Co Westmeath Tel 090 6492601 Email info@shamrocklodgehotel.ie www.shamrocklodgehotel.ie

Temple Gate Hotel

The Square, Ennis, Co. Clare Tel 065 682 3300 Email weddings@templegate.com www.templegatehotel.com

Cratloe Rd. Limerick Tel 061 421129 Email events@thomondpark.ie www.thomondpark.ie

Celbridge, Co Kildare Tel 01 6303500 Email info@villageatlyons.com www.villageatlyons.com

113

Longueville House

114

Dublin’s Exclusive Home Bakery

115

Unique and handcrafted cakes for your special occasion.

Call us to arrange a private consultation to discuss the requirements. Evening and weekend appointments are available. Free Cake Delivery on all orders over €500 (Dublin and Co Dublin only). Charges for nationwide delivery are available on request. Please call or visit our website for more information. CAKE FLAVOURS: Red Velvet, Vanilla Sponge, Traditional Fruit Cake, Madeira, Chocolate , Belgian Chocolate Biscuit Cake, White Chocolate Biscuit Cake, Caramel Fudge Biscuit Cake, Rocky Road, Chocolate Chip, Carrot, Mocca, Irish Coffee, Tiramisu, Lemon Drizzle , Amaretto Tiramisu, Marble, Chocolate Orange, Mint Chocolate, Toffee, Coconut. Gluten free flavours also available.

OUR HOURS: Mon-Sat 9am - 8pm Phone: 087 285 8888

Ordering & Delivery: 087 285 8888

www.nfcakes.ie

10% Off

any Wedding Cake with this advert.

132 Longboat Quay North Sir John Rogerson’s Quay Dublin 2

info@nfcakes.ie

Join Us on Facebook

Love luxury Welcomin

Weddin s & uests

116

Civil Ceremonies up to 180

The g Hotel & Spa, Galway City T: 091 865200 E: weddings@theg.ie W: www.theghotel.ie