DUNADRY WEDDINGS

THE INSIDE SCOOP FROM DUNADRY HOTEL AND GARDENS’ WEDDING MANAGER.

Firstly, let me introduce myself, my name is Kirsty Campbell and I am the Wedding Manager at the 4-star Dunadry Hotel And Gardens, in County Antrim. It’s fair to say that 2020 has not been the year that we hoped or expected it to be, there has been hard times, but just as many good times. One thing 2020 has most certainly given us all is a different perspective on life and perhaps brought us all back down to earth with a firm bump. The real things that matter in life have become more apparent, clear and at the forefront of our lives.

I am going to give you a little insight into what has been happening at Dunadry Hotel And Gardens.

Now would be a good time to put the kettle on. Before I get started it would only be right for me to introduce the iconic hotel to those of you that may not know it.

Dunadry Hotel And Gardens can only be described as a very special place. From the moment you arrive there is a sense of calmness and tranquillity. This little hidden gem has been lovingly restored with authentic features remaining with a modern upgrade giving the best of both worlds. Historically a working Linen Mill the original features are one of a kind and the hotel is steeped in history at every turn transporting you to a lovely place.

Described in 3 words – relaxing, unique and luxurious. The grounds are just as impressive as the interior, as the internal garden acts as the heart within the hotel. With every turn you can look out and see the breath-taking grounds, allowing nature to become part of your experience no matter the season or weather. The hotel is nestled on the banks of the flowing Six Mile River among acres of lush, manicured gardens allowing for a little private oasis for married couples to escape for stunning photographic opportunities.

The whimsical setting can accommodate a celebration from 2 persons up to 240, so whether you are dreaming of an intimate or lavish wedding we have an impeccable choice of locations throughout. We pride ourselves on being fun and relaxed, putting you and your wedding day right at the heart of this iconic venue. The Pandemic Pause……. Let’s take it right back to March 2020. Sadly, the hotel temporarily shut its doors and

But, what happened during those months? Well a lot actually… we have been very busy inside and outside. Inside, just like everyone we got around to all those little jobs that always get put to the bottom of the list! We worked at bringing new ceremony areas and intimate rooms to life within the hotel, giving an array of new locations for our couples to choose from. Externally we replanted over 300 new plants in our gardens to bring colour and more depth, and we also created a fabulous new outdoor space. Our new addition is called ‘The Secret Garden’. Tucked away this new space can be used for ceremonies, drinks receptions, photos and many more exciting things….but we aren’t giving all our secrets away. It really must be seen to be believed.

Obviously one of the hardest parts of lockdown was that some of our wonderful couples had their special day postponed. It is never easy when everything that has taken so long to arrange has to be changed.

Naturally, we don’t like change, but this situation has forced us all to move out of our comfort zone and embrace what we have got. Everyone has been so wonderful at taking on ‘the new normal’ and I believe if only one good thing has come out of this terrible time it is love isn’t cancelled.

Although the day may not be exactly what was initially envisaged, the one thing I tell everyone is that the reason for all of this is the fact you love each other and will be married. All the other stuff can be changed and be different but at the end of the day the heart and love of the wedding day will always remain. Here at Dunadry one of our signature parts of the day is the signing of the cork and we describe it as becoming part of the Dunadry family. As a little mark of what should have been we left one gap in our cork cabinet and named it ‘the pandemic pause’, as a

little reminder in years to come of the time everything had to pause for the pandemic in 2020.

All of us at the hotel are extremely excited for the future and that we have finally got back to doing what we love, planning and hosting so many couples’ wedding days and welcoming them to the Dunadry family. opportunity to welcome you and your partner to this ever growing Family.

You can contact me directly at kcampbell@dunadry.com and let’s make your special day a reality.

Contact us:

Dunadry Hotel And Gardens 2 Islandreagh Drive, Dunadry, Antrim, County Antrim, BT41 2HA Northern Ireland

T: 0044 (0)28 9443 4343 E: kcampbell@dunady.com GET TO KNOW KIRSTY QUICK FIRE QUESTIONS.

What is your favourite thing about your job?

I love helping couples’ piece together the most special day in their life and be able to be a small part in such a personal journey with them.

What advice would you give your Brides and Grooms?

Advice - it is your day do it your way. Don’t be influenced by family and friends or current trends stay true to yourselves and the meaning of the day!

What is your favourite season for a wedding?

Winter

Favours or no favours?

Favours

Band or DJ?

Band

Wedding Cake or Wedding ‘Cheese’ Cake?

Wedding Cake

Sweetie Table or Donut Wall?

Sweetie Table

Gallery or River Suite for a Ceremony?

Gallery

Inside or Outdoor Wedding?

Outside – Summer/Spring/ Autumn Inside - Winter

Intimate or Lavish Wedding?

Intimate

Top Table or No Top Table?

Top Table

Quirky or Traditional?

Either - a reflection on the couple’s personalities

Real Flowers or Fake Flowers?

Neither - Greenery

Six Months to Plan or a Year to Plan?

We can plan in any timeline – anything is possible.