Like Weddings 2015

Cork’s FREE wedding guide

Weddings

SAY YES…

To your dream dress

PERFECT DAY Style ideas for your ideal wedding

FIND THE ONE

The wedding venues that will steal your heart

The essential guide to making your wedding the best day of your life.

UNIQUE PERFECT ETERNAL Cornmarket Street, Cork City, Ireland +353 (0)21 4279420 info@designworksstudio.ie www.designworksstudio.ie

contents Dress to impress.

Unique and beautiful styles to make your own.

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07................... Dates for your dairy 08 ������������������������������Weddings A-Z 15 ��������������������������������������������������������� Style 33 ��������������������������������������������������� Beauty 37 ������������������������������������Designworks 43...................Same-sex marriage 60 ������������������������������������������������ Venues 66 ���������������������������������������������������������Gifts

Make my day.

The unsung heroes behind the wedding scene.

38

Real weddings.

Be inspired by our real couples’ beautiful wedding days.

48 Trips of a lifetime.

Our guide to the most romantic honeymoon locations.

62 3

EDITOR’S LETTER EDITOR: Carolyn Moore

Wedding bliss…

A

h weddings! Whether it was our own or someone else’s, chances are weddings are up there as some of the most memorable events of our lives, and perhaps I’m biased, but I genuinely believe that no one does weddings like the Irish do weddings.

For a few years, after my glut of “friend weddings” died down, I had a big gaping hole in my social life where weddings used to be, and I missed them.

I missed the excuse to get all dressed up; the emotional rush of sharing in someone’s big day (spoiler alert – I’m a crier); catching up with people you only see at weddings; and most of all… getting down, because past a certain age weddings become your only opportunity to dance like a lunatic.

They say it doesn’t rain, but it pours, and this year my wedding drought is over! The younger generation of my family are starting to wed, and by next May I will have been to seven weddings in the space of 18 months – two of which are on the same weekend in October! They also say be careful what you wish for, but I say bring it on.

The closer you are to the couple in question the more exciting it is, and this summer, after two long years of anticipation, my sister got married on an incredible weekend in Coolbawn Quay. It was (second to my own wedding) the most exciting day of my life, it was (second to my own wedding) the most gorgeous location in the world, and she was (second to no one) the most beautiful bride I’ve ever seen.

But the fun and excitement was by no means limited to the day itself – if you do it right and don’t stress over the little things, half the enjoyment is in the planning and anticipation. And this is where we hope Like Weddings will become the indispensible guide for Cork couples as they plan their big day. For our debut issue, we have stunning real weddings, gorgeous wedding style, essential beauty advice, and honeymoons you’ll never want to come home from. Whether you’re ring shopping or venue hopping, there’s something between these pages designed to help you put a ring on it… if you Like it, that is.

4

SAY HELLO f www.facebook.com/likemagazinecork T @likemagazine_ie

Cover: Model: Jess Hayes at Lockdown Models www.lockdown.ie Photographed by Miki Barlok www.barlokphoto.com Makeup: Siobhán O’Mahony Training Manager, Clarins, using: Clarins True Radiance foundation Clarins Everlasting foundation Clarins ‘The Essentials’ eyeshadow palette Clarins Crayon Kohl in black Clarins Be Long mascara in black Clarins Ever Matte powder Clarins Blush Prodige in Miami Pink Clarins Joli Rouge lipstick Hair: Donna O’Neill for Pin-Up Hair, Innishannon, Cork, plus bridal appointments on location.

Phone 021 470 1833. www.pinuphair.ie

Styled by Carolyn Moore Assisted by Edelle Notte Jess wears Tiana earrings, €75, and single Bardeaux necklace, €165, from Azure, 5 Carey’s Lane, with a made-to-order silk and lace dress from a selection by Caroline Atelier, available from Bella Bleu Bridal, 1st Floor, 17 French Church St. Made to order bouquet by Fairy Godmother Weddings, from Diamond Bridal, 5 Maylor St. Creative contributors: Miki Barlok – Photographer Fiona Casey - Photographer Siobhán O’Mahony – Makeup artist Donna O’Neill – Hair stylist Edelle Notte - Stylist Like Magazine Team: Editor: Carolyn Moore editor@likemagazine.ie Deputy Editor: Maria Tracey maria@likemagazine.ie Graphic Design: Bob O’Connor

Advertising Manager: Niamh Keane niamh@likemagazine.ie Ph. 087 6839589 Circulation/Distibution: Carey Media Like Magazine is published by Like Magazines Ltd., 4 Carey’s Lane, Cork, Tel: 021 4252256 www.likemagazine.ie.

Company Registration number 550302.

The entire contents of the magazine are copyright © LIKE Magazines Ltd. and may not be reproduced in any form without the written consent of the publishers.

Like Magazine circulates 25,000* copies. *Publisher’s Statement.

The

FOTA Collection

love laughter ever after It’s all about attention to detail for you, your groom and guests. We listen and plan your day around you to make it as special as your love is!

Fota Island Wedding Showcase Sunday 11th October 12pm - 5pm

www.fotaisland.ie

www.thekingsley.ie

The Kingsley, Victoria Cross, Cork, Ireland. T +353 (0)21 480 0500 www.thekingsley.ie Fota Island Resort, Fota Island, Cork, Ireland. T +353 (0)21 467 3453 www.fotaisland.ie

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diar y da t e s

SAVE THE DATE Essential dates for your wedding planning diary…

I

f you’re looking for inspiration, look no further than a wedding fair! Packed with professional vendors who can help turn your day into a truly special event, regardless of budget, wedding fairs can offer up new ideas, wherever you are in the planning process.

SATURDAY, OCTOBER 3rd and SUNDAY, OCTOBER 4th ULTIMATE WEDDINGS LIVE, LIMERICK RACECOURSE 12 - 6PM From venues to flowers, cakes, video and photographers – in just a few hours at Ultimate Weddings Live it’s possible to book your whole wedding… ideal for busy couples. One of Ireland’s top beauty bloggers, Suzanne Jackson of sosueme.ie will also be attending. Tickets are €8.

Saturday, October 3rd Oriel House Hotel, Ballincollig 1pm – 5pm Pop along to see the luxury banqueting Leslie suite, and the more modern Tobin Suite for smaller weddings. The hotel also has an enclosed courtyard area, a magnificent staircase for photographs, and an amazing bridal suite in an 18th century tower.

Sunday, October 4th Carlton Hotel & C Spa, Kinsale Drive up the winding, enchanting woodland entrance to the Carlton for the showcase, and then lose your heart to the spectacular venue and unspoilt views overlooking Oysterhaven Bay. Sunday, October 4th The Clarion Hotel, Lapps Quay 2pm – 4.30pm Over 25 exhibitors will be attending on the day, and the wedding fashion show kicks off at 3pm. Gem broker, Michael Wall will also be hosting a talk on how to choose the ‘perfect’ diamond.

Sunday, October 4th Springfort Hall, Mallow 1pm – 5pm The romantic ambience of the Mallow four–star country house is perfect for an intimate wedding reception. In the summertime, it’s all about the beautiful gardens while in autumn and winter, homely comforts reign, with roaring fires.

Sunday, October 4th The Blarney Hotel & Golf Resort, Blarney 2pm – 5pm With an opportunity to have a drinks reception overlooking the 18th green, the Blarney Hotel & Golf Resort has to be seen. Treat yourself to a glass of bubbles on arrival with nibbles.

Sunday, October 4th The Imperial Hotel, South Mall 2pm — 5pm The initial grandeur of the marble foyer sets the tone at The Imperial, right in the heart of the city. A fashion show will get under way at approximately 3.30pm, hosted by fashion stylist Brendan Courtney.

Sunday, October 4th Clayton Hotel Silver Springs, Tivoli 2pm – 5pm View the hotel’s magnificent Regency Suite set out as it would be on the day of a wedding. Also tour the bridal suite, civil ceremony suite, and take away a little inspiration for your perfect day.

Sunday, October 4th Midleton Park Hotel 1PM - 5PM Choose from the Jameson Suite catering for up to 270 guests or the Garden Suite for up to 60 guests at the east Cork hotel.

The showcase will feature local suppliers and the venue’s dedicated wedding team, who’ll be on hand to show brides and grooms around the new look wedding suites.

Sunday, October 11th The Maritime Hotel, Bantry 2pm – 6pm Check out the hotel’s Windward Suite, with dramatic floor–to–ceiling windows overlooking Bantry’s spectacular bay. An oasis for newlyweds, book a wedding consultation on the day by phoning 027 54700.

Sunday, October 18th The Girls Club’s Wedding’s On A Budget, Carrigaline Court Hotel 2pm – 6pm Grab a glass of bubbly from the champagne ferris wheel in the foyer and step into a haven for savvy grooms and brides to be. Along with local vendors, see a pop–up shop of gowns for brides, bridesmaids and flower girls. Admission is by donation.

Sunday, November 29th Charleville Park Hotel, Charleville 12 — 6pm Take in a winter wedding fair in beautiful north Cork, with a host of wedding suppliers from photographers to DJs attending on the day. The hotel’s newly refurbished function room will also be on show.

7

a-z

The

A-Z of

Weddings…

A B C

et ‘Appy’ with essential G wedding apps to help plan the day. Think Pinterest for inspiration, Appy Couple to give guests the information they need, and Wed Pics for photo and video sharing. outonnieres add a touch of B individuality to a groom’s outfit.

We love the feather buttonholes from Wild Floral Couture, Centre Park Rd (wild.ie), priced from €15. he signature cocktail is here to T stay, and is a great way to kick off the reception! For a rustic wedding, serve a classic mojito in a jam jar.

Wedding photography is going

D 8

to new heights with hovering drones capturing the day from above. If you fancy it, try Tom Vaughan from Oakwood Aerial Photography in Ballydehob (oakwoodaerialphotography.ie).

a-z

E

scort cards are big in the US, E and the trend is now trickling over here. Located at the entrance to the reception, it gives the name of the guest and what table they are sitting at.

These are from Hilink on etsy.com.

F

o a good turn with your favours D and opt to support a charity with a donation in the name of each guest. Dogs Trust will provide a selection of unique wedding table cards, with a personalised note from you to your guests.

G H I J

arden games will keep guests G well entertained. Go for giant Jenga, croquet, and horseshoe toss.

or rustic-inspired bridal F bouquets, mix it up with some heavenly herbs such as lavender, thyme or rosemary.

I nvites are no longer just traditional paper and card.

Post a tea towel invite from weddingteatowels.co.uk — a special memento and kind to the environment.

Let jewels make a real statement on the day, like a sapphire and CZ circular pendant, â‚Ź298, Michel Jewellers

9

a/z

K L M N O P 10

et down on your knee ladies, G as 2016 is a leap year, so women can break convention and plan a spectacular engagement for their other halves. ry a natural lipstick for the T ceremony but consider a brighter lip, like Mac’s Lady Danger (€20, Brown Thomas), for the evening celebration.

iniature limoncello favours M offer a sip of summer... whatever the season.

naked cake is one of the A biggest trends this year, as seasonal fruits and soft fillings offer an alternative to traditional frosting. nce guests aren’t standing O in the wind and rain, outdoor weddings can be an extremely romantic occasion. There’s Inchydoney Island Lodge & Spa and its recently renovated headland; and Ballyvolane House where you can tie the knot under a canopy of trees. hether you opt for a propW tastic Polaroid dress up station or a photo booth rental, have your guests stick a signed photo in an album for a fun alternative to a guest book, and wait for those party memories to come flooding back!

a/z

Q

et some quiet time in with your G other half in the lead up to the wedding. Call it date night, enjoy each other’s company, and keep wedding talk to a minimum.

R

Remember a special loved

S

ou may have experienced a Y silent disco at a festival, but what about a wedding? Like’s deputy editor Maria Tracey had one at hers, and is gushing about the latest dance trend.

See silentdisco.ie.

T

one on your wedding day by attaching a photo charm of them to a bouquet; make a donation to a charity in their memory or set up a table at the reception with photographs of those who’ve passed away.

or tunes that will see everyone F dancing, add a line for a DJ song request on RSVP cards.

Ireland's leading Off The Rail bridal store where service and value is simply second to none.

Announcing our new exclusive range of designers available to order - Modeca, Pure, Aishling, Memories Re-Created offering our brides even more choice.

Irish Bridal Store of the Year Nominee

The Memories Bride will find a selection of gowns that is unmatched for choice and value.

Now also

Book your open in appointment Dublin now to avoid disappointment 10 Patricks Quay, Cork

Tel: 021 4552324

www.memoriesbridalboutique.com 11

a-z

U V W

Umbrellas… it’s Ireland after all.

For serious vehicle style,

rent a VW camper, like David McCarthy’s restored classic, available to rent for weddings.

Email info@daviemacphoto.com.

rap up for winter nuptials.

W Model Olivia Palermo made a statement for her wedding by styling a cream cashmere sweater and white shorts with a full tulle skirt overlay. Create an equally feminine look with this Evangeline boucle beaded jumper from Monsoon priced €75.

Your Wedding.

Your Wedding. . . your way. . y.our way. . . .at Actons of Kinsale ..a .t Actons of Kinsale

Overlooking Kinsale's stunning harbour, Actons Overlooking Kinsale's stunning harbour, Actons HotelHotel offers ultimate in relaxed elegance.

Our newly offers youyou thethe ultimate in relaxed elegance.

Our newly refurbished Ballroom is beautifully decorated, refurbished Ballroom is beautifully decorated, givinggiving you you a tasteful andand luxurious backdrop for your wedding. a tasteful luxurious backdrop for your wedding.

MILLIONS MILLIONSOF OFTINY TINY MOMENTS CREATE MOMENTS CREATE

Our accredited wedding planner, Mary,Mary, has helped over over Our accredited wedding planner, has helped 600600 couples to plan theirtheir wedding day...day... each each day tailored couples to plan wedding day tailored to to suitsuit thethe couples ownown unique tastetaste & style.

To book a couples unique & style.

To book a consultation and to start the planning of your perfect consultation and to start the planning of your perfect wedding day,day, call call Mary on 021 477 477 99009900 or email wedding Mary on 021 or email herher on on mkodonovan@actonshotelkinsale.com. mkodonovan@actonshotelkinsale.com.

Your Perfect Love Story Your Perfect Love Story Actons Pier Road, Kinsale, Co.Cork, Tel: +353 (0)21 4779900 Actons Hotel, Hotel, Pier Road, Kinsale, Co.Cork, Ireland | Ireland Tel: +353| (0)21 4779900 Web: www.actonshotelkinsale.com | Email: mkodonovan@actonshotelkinsale.com Find on Facebook Actons Hotel, Pier Road, Kinsale, Co.Cork, Ireland | Tel: +353 (0)21 4779900 Web: www.actonshotelkinsale.com | Email: mkodonovan@actonshotelkinsale.com | Find|us on us Facebook

Web: www.actonshotelkinsale.com | Email: mkodonovan@actonshotelkinsale.com | Find us on Facebook 12

a-z

X Y Z

tra special touches can add X to the day — we love the idea of hiring a coffee van for after the ceremony — especially in the colder months — treating your guests to a fabulous cappuccino, latte, or hot chocolate. Try our fav, mrcotton.com. ellow gold is making a Y comeback and for serious style kudos, goldsmith Tulla Harrington of Designworks Studio on Cornmarket Street has designed this gold hammered band set with various size scattered diamonds. hink zig–zag for a quirky T design theme. The chevron pattern is fresh, colour adaptable, and offers something totally different from damask.

WEDDINGS YOUR WAY

Barista Coffee

FOR YOUR WEDDING

Charleville Park Hotel Email: barbara@charlevilleparkhotel.com

TELEPHONE: 063 33700 www.charlevilleparkhotel.com

Hire a Mr. Cotton Van for your wedding and you can treat your guests to a fabulous cappuccino, latte, hot chocolate & much more.

Contact Declan @ 086-3859031

declan@mrcotton.com • www.mrcotton.com 13

Azure Jewellery specialises in exquisite handmade jewellery, bridal jewellery and hair accessories, all of which are andcrafted in their studio in the heart of Cork City, Ireland.

Want to treat a special bridesmaid, a marvellous mum or a fabulous flower girl to something special to keep forever? Well then look no further than our store on Carey's Lane in Cork City. All handcrafted bridal jewellery and hair pieces are not only suitable for the beautiful bride but also make the perfect accessory for bridesmaids and flower girls, and wedding jewellery for guests.

Contact us on 0214905941 • info@azurejewellery.ie • www.azurejewellery.ie

www.leetravel.ie

We take the worry you take the trip Speak to the Experts. We've been there.

No 1 for Honeymoons and Weddings Abroad

24 Princes St., Cork • Ballincollig Midleton • Youghal

Tel: 1850 201214 www.leetravel.ie

style Lois beaded tie neck cape, €218, Monsoon

Beaded appliqué headpiece by Richard Design, €135, Moderne Bridal, French Church St.

Vintage Lou Lou earrings in diamond and amber, €49.50, Azure, Carey’s Lane

Anisa lace shrug, €90, Monsoon

Oval cut 1.10ct E Colour, €9,950, Michel Jewellers Ornamental hairpins, €20, Coast Eau des Jardins fragrance by Clarins, €41.50, Boots and selected pharmacies

Juniper dress from a selection by Maggie Sottero at Moderne Bridal, French Church St. Prices from €1,400.

Beaded satin T-bar shoes

by Jenny Packham, €127, Debenhams

Vine leaf bracelet by Jenny Packham, €37.50, Debenhams

Beatrice embroidered clutch, €69, Accessorize

Natalie embellished belt by Emily Jean, €295, Emily Jean, Galway, or emily-jean.com

NEW ROMANTIC

For some brides, the appeal of easy, laid back glamour is hard to resist. Soft, fluid silks allow ease of movement for free spirits, while lace accents lend a romantic finish and delicate beading adds a striking sparkle. Here’s our guide to being a boho bride.

15

style Felicity feather bolero, €55, Coast Silvia ivory cape, €120, Coast

Lace covered box clutch, €39.90, Accessorize

Kendall dress from a selection by Enzoani at Diamond Bridal, Maylor St. Prices from €1500 to €3000.

18ct white gold diamond halo ring, price on application Designworks Studio is located at: Cornmarket Street

Chanel N°5, €88, Brown Thomas Art deco style drop earrings by Newbridge Silverware, €25, Kilkenny

Crystal detail Manda shoes

by Jimmy Choo, €750, Brown Thomas

Diamante fern hair comb, €45, Azure Carey’s Lane

Luxe swirl comb, €90, Azure, Carey’s Lane

Kaya earrings, €75, Azure, Carey’s Lane

CZ sterling silver bangle, €295, Michel Jewellers

Le Classique

Bridal trends may come and go, but some silhouettes are just timeless. Marrying the dress you dreamed of as a little girl with grown up sophistication and added va-va-voom, this is a style that’s all woman.

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STYLISH

RANGE OF

HIGH

QUALITY

WEDDING

BANDS

CHIC

THE WORLD OF JEWELLERY

107 OLIVER PLUNKETT STREET | CORK CITY, IRELAND

TEL: 00353 021 427 5425 | WWW.CHICKWORLDOFJEWELLERY.COM

The finest detail...

to make your wedding day perfect.

From a bespoke menu to a selection of suites, and now introducing The Pavilion at Ballygarry House - the perfect celebratory setting, you can enjoy your wedding day exactly how you dreamed it‌ down to the finest, most beautiful detail.

Please call us on 066 7123322 or call in and speak with us anytime.

Killarney Road, Tralee, County Kerry, Ireland. www.ballygarryhouse.com

style Beaded maribou stole by J by Jasper Conran, €104, Debenhams

Pearl and bow clutch by Jenny Packham, €80, Debenhams

Sally ivory tulle wedding dress by Phase Eight, €335, Debenhams

Elouisa faux fur wrap, €95, Coast Georgia bracelet, €120, Azure, Carey’s Lane Fresh water pearl and gold fill earrings, €120, fleurjewellery.ie

Emerald cut halo–style 18ct white gold 1.28ct G Colour, €7,950, Michel Jewellers

La Vie Est Belle fragrance by Lancôme, €71, Boots

Twisted pearl necklace, €22.90, Accessorize

Christy satin and glitter shoe

by Rainbow Club, €140, Moderne Bridal, French Church St.

Lola feather clutch, €59, Accessorize

Clustered pearl Bow comb, €90, Azure Jewellery, Carey’s Lane

Pearly Queen

Feather and pearl hair slide by Jenny Packham, €40, Debenhams

Tea length and shorter styles are growing in popularity. Perfect for a chic city wedding or something a little less formal, add quirky accessories and personal touches for perfect vintage charm.

19

Laser offers to help your day go smoothly

LASER

HAIR REMOVAL from €39 per area

Arasys is Cork’s trusted Laser and Skin Clinic. Using the latest, most advanced, medical grade laser the new Cynosure Elite Plus, exclusive to Arasys, delivers exceptional results to our clients.

135, Oliver Plunkett Street, Cork

T: 021 4278 722

Book online: info@arasys.ie

Late opening til 8pm Wednesday, Thursday, Friday • Open 8am to 6pm Monday, Tuesday and Saturday

Suits you

W

hen it comes to dresses and the female form, one size definitely does not fit all, so it’s refreshing to see many occasion wear brands now developing multiple variations on a single style, so the bridesmaids can coordinate beautifully while each wearing a shape that flatters, supports or just makes them feel fab!

Dressing for two Just because they’re leaving the Prosecco-sipping and energetic dancing to their fellow bridesmaids doesn’t mean your pregnant pals can’t look as chic and gorgeous as the rest of the crew on your big day. Check out JellyBean in Douglas for the Tiffany Rose range of maternity occasion wear – comfortable, flattering styles that can be customised with sashes or belts worn under the bust to show off that bump. Anastasia gown, from €240, JellyBean, St Patrick’s Mills, Douglas.

Finishing Touch French-born jewellery designer Alice Moyon has been hand making her pretty antiqued brass and gold plated jewellery in her Irish studio for almost ten years. Using stones and beads sourced from as far afield as Japan, and the fine plating skills of a Parisian atelier, the result is a delicate and feminine range perfect for wedding parties. The gold plated Whispers collection can be custom ordered in a choice of colours to match your theme.

Bracelet, €35, and earrings, €35, to order from aliquo.ie.

style For some that might be a full length strapless column or a flattering V neck to accentuate their curves and allow them to wear a good bra. Some girls like to show off their great legs, while others love a cap sleeve to balance their proportions. With the convertible Eliza & Ethan dress, bridesmaids get all of these options and more as the

dresses come in two lengths and there are 22 ways to wear them. Priced from €200, order at The Fairy Godmothers Bridal Boutique, Midleton.

Twice as nice Trend setting brides are embracing separates as the new dress. Kick started by style icon Olivia Palermo, who married last year in a cashmere sweater and tulle skirt combo, it might be a bit fashion forward for most brides, but one way to incorporate the trend is to consider separates for your bridesmaids. Lace skirt, €190, lace crop top, €99, and sequin crop top, €150, all from Coast.

Midnight madness With more and more grooms opting to wear navy suits, midnight blue makes a gorgeous accent colour for the bridal party. Beautifully flattering to Irish skin tones, and just as chic as classic black, navy has the added bonus of letting the bride shine. Dress from a selection by Alexia at Moderne Bridal, French Church St. Earrings, €20, Marks and Spencer.

Shoes, €108, and bag, €55, Monsoon.

21

HAS A

NEW

HOME… 10 Lavitt’s Quay, Cork

021 4270266

bridal@themoderne.com /ModerneOccasionWear

/ModerneOccasion

/moderneoccasionwear

Oh Happy Day Say ‘I do’ to the perfect wedding look for you.

Bride: Double Katie bracelet, €135, and double Kimmy headpiece, €245, from Azure, Carey’s Lane. Dress from a selection by Enzoani at Diamond Bridal, Maylor St. Prices from €1,500 to €3,000.

Groom: Jacket, €149, waistcoat, €59, and trousers, €59,

by Skopes. Shirt, €59, bow tie, €19, and shoes, €69. All from Simply Suits, Kinsale Road Commercial Centre.

23

style Bride: Headpiece by Nieve Couture, priced from €50, Diamond Bridal, Maylor St. Vintage Lou Lou crystal earrings, €49, Azure, Carey’s Lane.Farah dress from a selection by Maggie Sottero at Moderne, French Church St. Prices from €1400 to €2400.

Groom: White shirt, €30, black tie, €20, and three–piece silver suit

by Skopes, €250 to buy or €85 to rent, all from Tony’s Fine Clothing, Marlboro St, Cork. Shoes, €69, from Simply Suits, Kinsale Road Commercial Centre.

24

style

Bride: Head piece

by Nieve Couture, priced from €50, and dress from a selection by Nicole Spose, prices from €1,200 to €2,000.

Both from Diamond Bridal, Maylor St. Groom: White shirt, €45, black tie, €19, and three– piece black suit

by Cavani, €249, all from Simply Suits, Kinsale Road Commercial Centre.

25

Bride: Head piece by Nieve Couture, priced from €50, Diamond Bridal, Maylor St. Darija dress from a selection by Maggie Sottero at Moderne, French Church St. Prices from €1400 to €2400.

Groom: White shirt, €30, black tie, €20, and three–piece black suit by Skopes, €250 to buy / €85 to rent, all from Tony’s Fine Clothing, Marlboro St. Shoes, €69, from Simply Suits, Kinsale Road Commercial Centre.

26

style

Bride: Single Bardeaux necklace, €165, and Kaylee earrings, €35, Azure, Carey’s Lane.

Veil by Nieve Couture, and brooch bouquet

by Fairy Godmother Weddings, Diamond Bridal, Maylor St. Vintage bustier and skirt, €450, Bella Bleu, French Church St. Groom: Jacket, €250, and waistcoat, €99,

by Guide of London. Trousers by Carl Gross, €99. Striped shirt with double collar

by Marnelli, €79.95, and tie, €20. All from Tony’s Fine Clothing, Marlboro St. Shoes, €69, from Simply Suits, Kinsale Road Commercial Centre.

CREDITS: Photographer: Miki Barlok barlokphoto.com Stylist: Carolyn Moore Styling assistant: Edelle Notte Hair: Donna O’Neill for Pin-Up Hair Inishannon, Cork Phone: 021 470 1833 pinuphair.ie Makeup: Siobhán O’Mahony, Training Manager, Clarins, using Clarins skincare and makeup Shot on location at Fota Island Resort Phone: 021 488 3700 fotaisland.ie Models: Jess Hayes at Lockdown lockdown.ie Muiris Bartley at Hotlook hotlookmodels.com

27

style

3 2

1

5

4

7 6 8

COMING UP ROSY For the ultimate in romance, pink–hued rose gold is sheer perfection. While seen as quite “on–trend”, there’s longevity with this pretty precious metal, blending a vintage vibe with a contemporary edge. Mix it with other metals in an engagement ring for a romantic colour story, or subtly incorporate the warm tone into the look for the male contingent of the bridal party through cufflinks and tie clips. Here’s our top picks from the stylish collection at Michel Jewellers on St Patrick’s Street.

1) Gents rose gold wedding band, €340, Michel Jewellers 2) 18ct white gold and rose gold solitaire diamond twist G Colour 1.50ct, price on application, Michel Jewellers 3) 18ct rose gold and white gold halo style solitaire diamond ring 0.50ct, €3,975, Michel Jewellers 4) Tie clip and cufflinks set, €30, Michel Jewellers 5) Jos Von Arx pen set, €60, Michel Jewellers 6) Two–tone cufflinks and tie bar, €35, 7) Gents 9ct rose gold and white gold wedding band, €725, Michel Jewellers 8) Fischer 18ct rose gold and white gold wedding band, €1325, Michel Jewellers

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LIFETIME WARRANTY •EXTRA 20% COMFORT TAX AVAILABLE Smile Store allowed me to smile with confidence on my wedding day. I RELIEF was hugely conscious of a unsightly in my GENTLE PROCEDURE • SEDATION AVAILABLE FOR • WORLD LEADING DENTALgap SURGEONS smile and really didn’t want to spend the happiest day of my life covering it up or grimacing at the camera. I contacted

Smile Store and received an implant treatment which was gentleCOMFORT and highly affordable. feels so natural andSURGEONS I’m GENTLE PROCEDURE • SEDATION AVAILABLE FOR EXTRA • WORLD ItLEADING DENTAL beaming from ear to ear in all the wedding I’m so gladto I picked up that phone.

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at Marie, Douglas. smilestore.ie/testimonials or Facebook.com/SmileStoreCork Check what our patients had to say about us online at smilestore.ie/testimonials or Facebook.com/SmileStoreCork

The Village Centre | Tramore Road Junction Togher Road, Cork Tel: 021 432 0004 | Email: reception@smilestore.ie | www.smilestore.ie The Village Centre | Tramore Road Junction Togher Road, Cork Tel: 021 432 0004 | Email: reception@smilestore.ie | www.smilestore.ie

The Village Centre, Tramore Road Junction, Togher Road, Cork.

T: 021 432 0004 W: www.smilestore.ie E: reception@smilestore.ie

style

The guest edit

Even if you’re not planning a wedding, chances are you’re headed to one in the coming months. There’s a definite appeal to an autumn or winter wedding – and in Ireland there’s a certainty to the weather that makes them that much easier to dress for. So forget your flimsy pashmina, abandon that floaty maxi dress, and embrace the season’s perfect wedding style.

Oh Mamma If there’s one outfit at any wedding that’s been almost as carefully considered as the bride’s, it’s her mum’s. A wedding is the couple’s big day, but ask any mother of either the bride or the groom, and she’ll tell you it’s a pretty special day for her too, and one on which she wants to look her absolute best. You simply can’t go wrong with a beautifully cut dress, and this Carla Ruiz style cleverly incorporates a smart jacket, making it perfect for day and for evening. Dress, €299, Moderne, Lavitt’s Quay. Beaded clutch, €45, Accessorize. Shoes by J by Jasper Conran, €88.50, Debenhams.

Shine on The best thing about winter fashion is fabrics and finishes that might feel over the top or over dressed in summer suddenly seem a more natural choice, and the same is true for winter occasion wear. Satins, sequins and feathers, in rich jewel tones, add some much needed sparkle on grey days and dark nights, and the closer it gets to Christmas the more you can let loose your inner magpie. If you’re lucky enough to be invited to a New Year’s Eve wedding… all bets are off. Full Shirley Bassey – go big or go home. Full satin skirt, €159, and beaded top, €150, Coast. Sequined dress, €108, River Island. Sparkle jacket, €82, Marks and Spencer. T-bar heels, €68, Topshop. Clutch by Nine by Savannah Miller, €58.50, Debenhams.

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She’s a lady To really nail that winter wedding style, your outfit should incorporate some form of well considered outerwear. Shivering on the church steps with arms you could grate cheese on is not a good look. Irish designer Aideen Bodkin’s autumn winter collection features stunning dresses and stylish coordinates that ooze vintage charm. We love the Jackie O vibes off this pearl pink Parker jacket (€359) worn with the Yeats dress (€329), but we’d mix it up with the jacquard floral dress (€349), available from select Kilkenny stores.

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beauty GET LIPPY Once you’ve settled on a lipstick colour at your make–up trial, remember to pick one up yourself so you’ll have it throughout the day for essential top ups.

Like loves the super flattering warm tawny glow of the lip colours in Bobbi

PROTECT & PERFECT Weather permitting, you’ll probably spend some of your wedding outdoors, socialising and posing, so a SPF is important! Nuxe has combined high– protection with glamour in its Delicious Lotion For Face and Body with SPF 30 (€24 from selected pharmacies). Apply to arms, shoulders and décolletage after your shower. For perfectly prepped skin before your makeup apply Clarins Mission Perfection Serum (€60, Brown Thomas) under your moisturiser to tackle dullnes, and follow with their clever non–greasy Day Screen Multi–Protection SPF 50 (€38, Debenhams).

MAKE SCENTS Break away from your signature scent and choose a new fragrance especially for the day. Even though your wedding will be captured on film, the right perfume can set the mood and trigger memories through its beautiful scent. Jo Malone, who offer bridal consultations in Brown Thomas, have choices like the luxurious Peony & Blush Suede (€102 for 100ml).

Brown’s latest Telluride collection.

The Pink Dusk Lip Trio features a pretty natural pink sheer lip colour, plus complimentary lip pencil and lip gloss to give a perfectly polished look. €49.50, Brown Thomas.

HAIR YOU GO Like getting your skin ready for the big day, hair also needs to be prepped. If yours is damaged and over processed, try the Kérastase Résistance Thérapiste collection for stronger, silkier, more radiant hair. Use in the lead up to the wedding, and as most stylists prefer to work with hair that’s been washed the day before, try the pampering Masque Thérapiste (€36), an SOS bandage for damaged hair, the night before.

PRIMED AND READY For a secret weapon on the day, try a water mist as a primer. We all know that H2O is essential for beautiful skin, and spritzing it on wakes up the skin and restores moisture. You can use it to create a sheer canvas, set your makeup look, and refresh it throughout the day.

MAC’s Sized To Go Prep+Prime Fix+ is perfect for the handbag (€10, Brown Thomas).

VITAMIN SEE Cleanse smart the night before your wedding to wake up with healthier looking skin, and get some precious “me” time into the bargain, massaging your stresses away. Origins Clean Energy Cleansing Oil (€28, Boots) is packed full of skin loving goodies like olive, sunflower, sesame and safflower oils, macadamias and Vitamin E. It slides makeup off and protects precious moisture resources. Afterwards, layer on Murad Essential C Night Moisture (€69, Therapie on Opera Lane), packed with antioxidants and vitamins.

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beauty

THE FINAL COUNTDOWN

Don’t let ‘Taking care of you’ fall to the bottom of your to-do list. With our step-by-step pampering guide you can make sure you’re polished and primed for your wedding day.

12 MONTHS TO GO GET FIT It’s “crunch time”. If one of your wedding goals is to be in shape for the big day, taking on a year–long regular exercise plan is the most effective way to achieve this. As the popular Instagram hashtag #strongisthenewsexy proves, these days fitness goals are less about losing weight and more about toning up and feeling strong enough to take on every challenge. To look and feel stronger, fitter, healthier and happier on your big day, try énergie Fitness at City Gate, Mahon (energiefitnessclubs.com/cork/) with its unique 30–day results–guaranteed émpower programme, offering support, advice and results.

9 MONTHS TO GO DESTINATION DENTIST As your smile will be immortalised forever in wedding photographs, you want your pearly whites to look... well, pearly and white! Visit your dentist for a scale and polish, and talk through your options for teeth whitening, or if needs be, porcelain veneers or dental implants. We love the service at Smile Store (smilestore.ie) on the Tramore Road, which uses the ZOOM whitening system, available as an in-

34

house treatment or a home whitening kit dispensed with a prescription.

8 MONTHS TO GO HAIR WE GO From shaving to waxing, epilation to tweezing, most women wage a constant battle with unwanted body hair. If you don’t fancy nursing razor burn, ingrown hairs, nicks or scratches on your wedding day or during the honeymoon, try laser hair removal for something more permanent. Therapie Clinic on Opera Lane (therapieclinic.com) offers a course of six treatments with their medical-grade lasers, at prices that are surprisingly reasonable. Autumn is the best time to start, as skin must be at its palest on treatment days, meaning no tan — real or fake (sorry ladies) — and with treatments recommended every six weeks, you can dare to bare at the start of the summer.

Get that honeymoon bikini ready now.

7 MONTHS TO GO FACE FACTS Now is the time to step up your skin care routine and start cleansing, buffing, toning, and moisturising, along with using eye cream, serum and lip butter. Book some facials and try out treatments

that focus on problem areas - reducing wrinkles, treating acne scars or just giving your skin a healthy glow. Leading beauty clinic, Devereaux Beauty at The Mall, Maryborough Woods and Devereaux Beauty @Vogue, Frankfield (devereauxbeautyclinic.com) has a range of skin focused treatments, including the renowned CACI Ultra.

5 MONTHS TO GO TRIAL AND ERROR Fail to prepare, prepare to fail. Try to have both your make–up and hair trials done a few months before the wedding day so there’s plenty of time to have another if you’re not completely happy, and remember, it’s best to have both trials on the same day as you can judge the overall look properly. Bring photographs of bridal looks for inspiration, and don’t be afraid to speak up. Say what you like and don’t like.

It’s your day after all!

4 MONTHS TO GO BOLD BROWS Be inspired by the enviable brows of model du jour Cara Delevingne and sculpt your own bold arches. Coco Beauty Spa in Ballincollig (coco.ie) is Ireland’s only dedicated HD Brows studio, offering a

beauty

unique treatment for the ultimate wellgroomed, high definition eyebrows.

While some salons use a ‘one shape fits all’ approach, HD Brows are bespoke, with brows assessed on face shape and colouring before a tailored seven-step shaping treatment is devised. Book to shape every month in the lead up to the wedding, and abstain from DIY plucking between visits.

2 MONTHS TO GO DETOX DAYS With two months to go, try cutting out sugar and alcohol for fresher and younger looking skin. Why not also give a juice detox a go, like Juice Delivery (juicedelivery.ie), which delivers to Cork. The three day detox plan offers nutritionally balanced juices that cleanse the body by removing toxins and excess waste, replenish vitamins and minerals, and boost the immune system.

1 MONTH TO GO LOVELY LASHES Instead of dealing with temporary lashes on the day, try lash extensions, a semi permanent alternative that will give you long, dark, beautifully curled, full, glossy lashes, customised to your eye shape.

It means that you’ll have stunning eyes in the lead up to your wedding, and all through the honeymoon - perfect for looking divine when lazing by the pool.

We recommend Ms Diva lash salon at The Westend Beauty Centre, Ballincollig and A Touch of Elegance in Midleton (msdiva.ie), which offers packages from €50.

2 WEEKS TO GO MARVELLOUS MASSAGE With a fortnight to go, you’ll need to de–stress and book in for a massage.

Consider it a little pre–wedding present to yourself! Try a Pevonia Botanica stone therapy massage (€120, 90 minutes) at The Kingsley, which uses all natural ingredients. Or if your other half fancies it, a couples massage (€75pp, 50 minutes) can allow you relax and unwind together.

See thekingsley.ie.

1 WEEK TO GO WAXING TIMES It’s time to get any necessary waxing done and get rid of unwanted hair so you’re perfectly primed and silky smooth for the day. Waxing empire City Wax (citywax.ie) at Mahon Industrial Estate are the go–to experts and are open late weekdays, perfect for the busy lead up to the wedding.

TWO DAYS TO GO GOLDEN GLOW If you’re not blessed with gorgeous bronzed and flawless skin, then a spray tan is a great option. Exfoliate your skin the night before, wax or shave a minimum of 24 hours before your tanning appointment, and wear dark, loose fitting clothing and undergarments on the day. We can vouch for the legend that is Susan Ryan (susanryanbeauty.com) on South Main Street, whose beauty salon offers SunFX, St Tropez and Fantasy Tan. ONE DAY TO GO NAIL IT As everyone will be checking out the ring the next day, nails have to be at their best.

Treat yourself to a professional pedicure and manicure and bring along your bridesmaids and mother. Fifth Avenue (fifthavenuecork.ie) on Oliver Plunkett Street is fast becoming a pre–wedding day tradition for Cork brides–to–be, with options like a French manicure (€15) to a chocolate manicure (€40) along with luxurious pedicure treatments for tired feet.

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15 MINUTES TO SET YOU GETTING MARRIED? 15HERE’S MINUTES TO SET YOU 15 MINUTES TO SET YOU

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PROFILE

designworks STUDIO

A

ncient tradition is at the heart of why rings are exchanged at marriage ceremonies.

Together with a traditional diamond engagement token, epitomising the strength of undying love, the pairing of rings represent endurance, and the unbroken promise of commitment.

Unquestionably, such a symbolic gift needs to be special, and the innovative Designworks Studio on Cornmarket Street is a jewel of a find for couples — both betrothed or soon–to–be — with an exceptional range of exquisite hand–made engagement rings and beautifully finished wedding jewellery — from timeless earrings for bridesmaids to chic cufflinks for groomsmen — available in–house. The studio also specialises in commission pieces, creating unique bespoke engagement and wedding rings to order right in the heart of the city.

Run by award–winning goldsmith and jewellery designer Tuula Harrington, the ethos of Designworks is to build a greater awareness of jewellery craftsmanship. This is perfectly represented through the stunning contemporary engagement and weddings rings available, and the studio’s use of more unusual cuts and colours from cognac coloured diamonds to stunning radiant and pear cuts. Varied metals are utilised, with yellow gold experiencing a revival, after years of being in the shadow of white gold and platinum;

while the romantic pink–hue of rose gold is proving more than just a fleeting trend, nudging its way into a more prominent and permanent position.

Tuula explains that for a purchase lasting a lifetime, careful consideration must be given to the purchase of the rings, as they play such a significant role in the whole occasion. “It’s the one thing that’s worn again and again — so it’s really important to get it right,” she says.

Couples are invited to browse through the captivating one–off and limited edition pieces on display at the Cornmarket Street retail gallery, featuring designs

by 15 Irish–based designers; while three creative, knowledgeable, and friendly goldsmiths also work out of the studio. Experts in their craft, they meet with couples seeking bespoke, one–of–a kind pieces, discussing individual needs, styles and requirements. Designworks Studio also caters for all budgets, with diamond rings starting from €2,000.

With expert craftsmanship and a contemporary flair, what’s created at this renowned studio is something truly special — perfect, unique and beautifully–crafted modern tokens for eternity, epitomising everlasting love.

Designworks Studio, Cornmarket Street. Ph: 021 4279420 or see designworksstudio.ie.

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f e at u r e

E K Y A A MY D M

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ou can be a human stress ball, a psychologist, a shoulder to cry on… or even a seamstress.”

Caroline White, events coordinator at The Kingsley, jokingly reels off the alternative job descriptions she could add to her title when organising weddings. And the extensive list isn’t an exaggeration, as wedding coordinators and planners, along with the likes of bespoke dress designers, work tirelessly with couples in the months leading up to their weddings — there through thick and thin; tears and laughter; tantrums and calm. They’re the unsung heroes of the industry, and with their expert attention–to– detail and their calm–under–pressure personas, they can help you pull off a seemingly flawless day… even if there were some hiccups along the way.

“I do love helping people and making their dream come together,” enthuses Caroline. “It’s an honour.” Adding that a sign of a good wedding coordinator is someone “who really cares and takes pride in their work”, she explains that she loves hospitality. “I love helping people,” she gushes.

For most couples, venue coordinators are often their first point of contact on their wedding journey. And from there, it’s a whirlwind relationship of e-mails

38

and emotions. “The choice of reception venue is probably the biggest decision a couple will make, as it’s where they’ll spend the most time, and the biggest portion of their budget,” says Caroline.

“The coordinator is the supplier they’ll liaise with most so it’s important to

I say ‘come to me with whatever ideas you have and I’ll do my very best’.

If I can’t, I’ll tell them I can’t but I’ll always try and come up with something make the right decision. It’s kind of like an engagement ring or wedding dress — you just know when it’s the right one.”

Caroline states a wedding will always be a wedding — with a ceremony, dress, dancing and dinner. However, it’s what the couple do with it that makes it “their wedding”. “I always say, ‘personalise it to really make it your day’,” she highlights. “Some couples are big into food and wine, and

extra attention will be put into that.

Some couples really want to party and dance the night away, so we’d suggest band listings or alternative options like announcing the bridal party in with different music choices. Some like centrepieces, some get caught up in a table plan.

“I say ‘come to me with whatever ideas you have and I’ll do my very best’. If I can’t, I’ll tell them I can’t but I’ll always try and come up with something. I don’t believe in saying ‘no’ and that’s it.”

When it comes to weddings, months of organisation come down to just one day, and coordinators typically work tirelessly behind the scenes, setting up, checking in with the couple if they’re in–house beforehand, sending them off, and then waiting for them to come back afterwards. It’s intense, and they’re “on” until the early hours of the morning.

When it all comes together, that’s Caroline’s ‘wow’ moment. “It’s lovely but intense,” she says. “The couple are putting a lot of faith into your hands.

You’ve to make sure that what you promised, you deliver on. And when you deliver and see their faces, it’s all worthwhile. I’m big softie and nine times out of 10, I’ve tears in my eyes.”

f e at u r e

It’s all in the planning. Wedding planner Sandra Looney of To Have & To Hold at the Northpoint Business Park.

Wedding planner Sandra Looney of To Have & To Hold at the Northpoint Business Park is equally invested in her clients. “Having a planner is really like having a best friend,” she reveals.

“You trust that person to make sure everything works out.”

Sandra explains work starts with a couple around 18 months out, when they may have a date, but very little else. “I go through with them what they need and want,” she states. “I’d work with them to source the venue, photographer, videographer and so on.

From the beginning we start looking at some kind of theme. It can be quite broad as people change their minds over the course of 18 months, but it’s really about narrowing it down in terms of what they like and don’t like.”

For Sandra, she’s now seeing a growth in individuality among couples, with long–established wedding traditions being thrown out the window. “I love the fact that in today’s world everyone has a sense of what they want and like,” she says. “The possibilities are endless and it brings a freshness to the whole occasion. I’m finding weddings now far more relaxed with couples wanting good food and good friends.

They’re making their own rules.”

Sandra adds one wedding that

really stands out for her is a couple who simply did their own thing, to their own taste. “They got married in Ballymaloe Grainstore and it was beautiful because they just broke all the rules,” she reminisces. “The morning of the wedding there was

I’ve also had to hop in my car, pick people up from the airport… and have them just ‘appear’ at the back of the church, with the bride thinking they were there all the time none of the ‘I can’t see you and you can’t see me’, there wasn’t a big white dress, and their ceremony was just so personal. The styling was very elegant and about bringing the outdoors in, using a lot of greenery — very natural and understated.”

While Sandra makes all her weddings sound as though they run like clockwork, she does admit not all go smoothly. As a wedding planner she’s dealt with suppliers who ran late, were

stuck in traffic or got lost. “It blows my mind that someone doesn’t do a reccie beforehand,” she laughs. “I’ve also had to hop in my car, pick people up from the airport… and have them just ‘appear’ at the back of the church, with the bride thinking they were there all the time.

“Anything can happen, from people getting sick on the morning to people not showing up, to having to find an alternative. The whole thing is to make sure the bride and groom know nothing about it until afterwards so they can enjoy their day. You only get one chance, and my aim is for the couple to really enjoy it. If they do, then my job is done. It’s not about me, or what I want, it’s about them, and the day they want.

“It’s a collaboration until we’ve agreed a plan, then they hand it over to me and trust me to deliver it. It’s not just having a wedding planner, it’s really like having a best friend.

This job is much more rewarding that anything I’ve done before. Everybody is different, and everybody has their own hopes and dreams about what the day is going to be like. It’s great to be part of that.”

And it’s not just planners and coordinators who are integral to the

39

f e at u r e day itself. For many, so too is the designer who creates — over the course of several months — the perfect wedding dress. It may be a stylish tea–length, or a sweeping gown; it may have a train or a plunging neckline; it could be ivory or blush; tulle or silk. Cork–based designer, Caroline Matthews, the woman behind the label Caroline Atelier, has worked with hundreds of brides over the past eight years, to create dresses both adored and admired.

“Every bride has a particular vision of how they want to look, and it’s nice to be a part of that,” says Caroline. “I ask brides, ‘what type of dress do you wear going out?’. You base it around that, and what suits a person.

“There’s no point in someone getting a dress that’s completely out there, only so people can say in the church ‘look at that dress’. If they don’t feel like themselves in it, that’s not a good advertisement for a brand. However, if they get exactly what works for them, then they rock it and feel good.”

Caroline explains the whole process is different for each bride, while some come in and are “completely business”, others attach a more emotional experience to the dress designing and fittings.

“Brides tend to come to the fittings

on their own, and sometimes there’s a need for a bit of reassurance, that they have made the right decision,” she says. “It is nice when someone has loved the process as much as you, because sometimes people can get so wrapped up in weddings, and thinking you have to do this and you have to do that. They forget what it’s actually about — two people in love, making a commitment to each other.”

For Caroline, it’s when brides send through images from the day, that she can finally “sit down and let out a sigh of relief”. “I see the bride in their dress through the process, right up to the final fitting when they’d have their underwear and shoes but not their make–up or hair. When you get images from the brides, with their groom, bridesmaids and flowers, you see the whole effect.”

So after the day is done and dusted — the bride admired, food savoured, music danced to, and the quirky photo–booth praised, spare a thought for those behind the scenes. Whether they ensured the day flowed seamlessly or stitched the dress that fitted to perfection, they were there, every step of the way.

Cork–based designer, Caroline Matthews of bridal brand Caroline Atelier.

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yes

LOVE AND MARRIAGE After May’s euphoric scenes following the same-sex marriage referendum, systems are now all go towards the passing of the legislation through the Dáil. Maria Tracey talks weddings and the magnitude of the ‘yes’ vote with two Cork couples.

The two brides.

Valerie Mulcahy and Meg Blyth after they tied the knot.

Photo: Magda Lukas.

W

e’re now living in a different Ireland to a year ago.

Outwardly, it may look the same but in reality the country has been reshaped since the historic referendum back in May, when the voting population returned a resounding ‘yes’ in favour of same–sex marriage. The first country to do so by popular vote, Ireland shows itself to the world as a modern democracy of which to be proud… that we’re a nation of equals.

For Cork footballer Valerie Mulcahy, who tied the knot with her long– term partner Meg Blyth in June, the referendum was an “emotional roller– coaster for everyone involved”. “I feel all the conversations and personal stories — often difficult for people to share — really helped the general public to talk about issues around gender equality that they probably wouldn’t have been able to talk about otherwise,” she says. “Dialogue

between friends, families and neighbours really pushed us forward into a new era for our country. I feel very proud to be Irish and proud to

When I finally stood there with my fiancée I thought ‘I’ve arrived’.

It was like an inside joke — it seemed like it was just meant to be be part of a very significant time that will go down in history as the start of a happier, more diverse and inclusive Ireland.”

Having their civil partnership just weeks after the jubilant ‘yes’ result, the couple’s ceremony at Camden Fort

Meagher saw Valerie wear a gorgeous embellished blush gown, while Meg wore a smart powder–blue jacket with a black bow–tie. Choreographer Meg explains they wanted the historic fort as their venue the minute they walked through the gates. “As a child I spent summers trying to battle my way through the fields of brambles on the other side of that hill, to get to the ‘secret military base’ other kids used to tell me about,” reminisces Meg. “When I finally stood there with my fiancée I thought ‘I’ve arrived’. It was like an inside joke — it seemed like it was just meant to be.”

Valerie highlights that she “loved everything about the day”, from the beautiful venues — the reception was at the yacht club in Crosshaven — to the stunning weather. “I’d have to say though that the people made the day,” she reveals. “We really wanted to have a relaxed, fun, intimate wedding day, and we got that. Everyone had a ball

43

yes fight for their right to walk down the aisle, being married “feels like the privilege that it really is”. “I feel lucky to have found her,” she smiles. “I feel extremely fortunate to grow up in a time when that luck wasn’t a curse and I feel very safe in the knowledge

I feel lucky to have found her.

I feel extremely fortunate to grow up in a time when that luck wasn’t a curse

Matching engament bands for Graham McDermott and Eddie McGlone. Photo: Fiona Casey.

and created a great atmosphere. Meg and I were both on a high and felt the love from everyone. I couldn’t pick any one thing out over another. It was all magical.”

Meg states that because the couple — and many like them — had to

that our rights are intact and we are protected by law. As for the small day– to–day stuff... everything is the same, only better.”

Following a delay after the referendum outcome was challenged in the courts, legislation is only now being brought before the Dáil. However, it looks likely same–sex couples could be able to marry within weeks, extending them civil marriage rights. For Valerie and Meg there’s huge meaning in “upgrading” their civil partnership,

one they intend on celebrating. “After our beautiful, perfect wedding day we’re tempted to leave it at that, but the significance of what our ‘free upgrade’ means to us and our future together needs to be celebrated for the wonderful, meaningful achievement that it is,” says Meg. “So there will probably be a small upgrade party at some point soon.”

For Youghal’s Graham McDermott and his Glaswegian fiancé Eddie McGlone the emphatic ‘yes’ vote not only means getting married but also was the main instigator for their relocation to Cork.

“There are no words to describe what the referendum means to us,” says Graham. “We’re not secondary. If my brother gets married to his girlfriend, I can do the same. We’re equal.

“The ‘yes’ vote put the icing on the cake. I know we shouldn’t need a referendum or a seal of approval because you are what you are — that’s what I’ve always said. But with the vote, something clicked in the country.”

The result of the referendum was pivotal in the couple’s decision to settle back in Cork, having both met in Glasgow — Eddie’s hometown and where Graham was working as entertainment manager with Park Resort. “I got it into my head I wanted

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yes to get married in Ireland, so said ‘let’s go back, get married and start our lines afresh’,” says Graham. “There was a time the LGBT community left the country, but I’m noticing now friends who’ve moved away are starting to come back. And why not? I love my family, I love Cork, I love Ireland.”

Engaged in February, the couple met in what can only be described as a modern–day fairytale. Eddie had just started work in a popular Glasgow gay bar, Katie’s, and noticed, out of the corner of his eye, someone looking over at him. “I was about to go over to him and he was coming over to talk to me when I was distracted,” explains Eddie. Graham then decided to walk away, leaving via the bar’s staircase — “I didn’t leave a glass slipper,” he laughs — and Eddie on realising the mystery man had disappeared, ran after him. However, he was nowhere to be found.

Cue the next morning, and it was Graham’s turn to seek out Eddie, using Katie’s Bar’s Facebook page to find the handsome barman. “The bar had photos of their staff, and I clicked on Eddie McGlone thinking ‘will I?… is this too stalkerish?’,” laughs Graham.

“I sent a message, but my profile shot doesn’t really look like me, as I don’t have my glasses on in it.”

Eddie chips in that he was driving, his phone on the dashboard, when the message came through. “I looked at the profile picture, pulled over, and asked ‘who is this?’. I started driving again, but in my head starting putting glasses on the photo and I swear, I almost crashed the car,” he chuckles.

For a couple in a social media fairytale, there was never a question as to what their wedding theme would be. “It has to be Cinderella,” gushes Graham, who coincidentally performed in the fairytale panto at The Everyman last Christmas. Due to get married in 2017, the couple have yet to set a definitive day or venue, but are considering a wedding at Castlemartyr Resort in the spring.

Graham adds that if the ‘yes’ vote hadn’t happened, they wouldn’t be looking at Irish venues, but UK locations. “I always said I’d wait until Ireland passed the legislation, but in reality, I’d have probably got married in the UK and then came home for the party,” admits Graham. “I want that one person I can share my life and stories with, do things together and a marriage is like the icing on the cake, life is complete. As clichéd as it sounds, I’m looking forward to being settled, just being like everyone else.”

A perfect match — Eddie McGlone and Graham McDermott. Photo: Fiona Casey.

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di y

DIYweddings From stationary to centrepieces, favours to invitations, inspiring and creative DIY projects are becoming more prevalent for weddings. If you’re looking to put on a stylish and budget–friendly wedding — channeling a rustic vibe or vintage chic — then the go–to destination has to be Vibes and Scribes on Bridge Street, packed with adorable finds for the DIY savvy couple, perfect for creating that personal touch.

Wicker heart, €3.99, Vibes & Scribes

Lace adorned tea light candle holder, €1.50, Vibes & Scribes

Miniature bird cage, €3.50, Vibes & Scribes

Tea light candle holder, €0.99, ribbon €1.25 per metre Vibes & Scribes

Rose adorned heart, €4.99, Vibes & Scribes

Straw–coloured wicker heart, €4.99, Vibes & Scribes Individual letters, priced €2 each, Vibes & Scribes

Always and Forever hearts, €1.99, Vibes & Scribes

Wedding arrow, €3.99, Vibes & Scribes

Mr & Mrs heart, €1.99, Vibes & Scribes Appliqué for bridal dress, €12.99, Vibes & Scribes

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f e at u r e

If your husband is into machinery and tractors but you’re a disco queen, mash those ideas together!

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f e at u r e

Kate and Donal Cork’s best known makeup artist, Kate Noonan, is no stranger to weddings, so when it came to organising her own, it had to be something special. Like takes a peek at Kate and Donal’s not one, but two fab days.

Their Story: “I thought he was cool as he had a car,” laughs Kate as she recalls first meeting Donal. “It was instant attraction.”

Their engagement: Together 14 years, it was just last summer that Donal proposed, in a hammock under the stars at Casa de Laila. “It’s the venue we choose for our Spanish wedding, so that made it even more special,” adds Kate.

Go with your instincts and don’t try to be unique or different,

Their big day: “I avoided a wedding for years as I knew I’d have to be the one to organise it,” laughs Kate. “Then, for someone who had no interest in a wedding, I ended up having two!

“We fell in love with Casa de Laila last year, and I mentioned that I’d love to have a wedding there. We booked a second break there later that summer, and that’s when Donal proposed,” she recalls. “I knew it wasn’t a very practical venue for older people so we decided to have dinner at Barnabrow for family and bring our friends away.

It meant we were able to give all our time to our closest family at the Cork wedding, and party like rock stars with our friends in Spain.”

“I knew I wanted my guests to enjoy themselves and have everything they needed. If they were comfortable, I knew we would be too.”

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f e at u r e

Get the Look – KATE AND DONAL’S STYLISH IRISH AND SPANISH SOIREES

Their magic moment: “In Ireland it was my in laws surprising us with a wedding car,” recalls Kate.

“And in Spain it was our first dance, which was followed by everyone jumping into the pool.”

A sparkly, glamorous, sophisticated but fun affair, the couple’s two weddings were oozing in individuality and quirks. The Irish side was an elegant affair with pale purple accents, and an outdoors—indoors vibe as tree slabs, feathers and flowers were dotted throughout. The gorgeously– styled Spanish soirée inspired by the Med and stunning sunny days featured delicate lace, pretty florals and fabulous fans.

Small bell jar, €10, aprilandthebear.com

Bamboo folding fan, €3.95, dotcomgiftshop.com

Their top tips: “Go with your instincts and don’t try to be unique or different,” says Kate. “Be true to yourself and you’ll already be individual.

“If your husband is into machinery and tractors but you’re a disco queen, mash those ideas together! We had glittery tractors and diggers as part of our centerpieces,” she laughs.

Their thank yous: “I’ve never attended a wedding I didn’t work at, so I know what it’s like to call on friends to provide a service at your wedding. Most of my favourite vendors are also now friends, and we really appreciated their time and effort. For going above and beyond and making our day so special, we are forever grateful.”

Feather button hole, priced from €15, Wild on Centre Park Road

Photographer: Cork - The Woodards; Spain – a special favour from our friend, Miki Barlok Bride: Both dresses from Bella Bleu.

Jewellery from Azure

Large papier mâché number, €1.99 each, Vibes & Scribes

Bridesmaids: Cork – Verso, Douglas; Spain - ASOS

Lady Amherst pheasant feather, €12.99, Vibes & Scribes Black candle, €1 for one or €5 for six, Candle Shop, Paul Street Shopping Centre

Groom: Separates from Brown Thomas, styled by James McDonald Groomsmen: Suits from Topshop Hair: Cork – Audrey Cashman, Upstyle Junkie; Spain – Pamela Morrisey, Sobe Brown Makeup: Kate Noonan Flowers and styling: Wild Floral Couture

White and gold candleholder and geometrical gold candleholder, €10 each, aprilandthebear.com

Tree slab — contact your local tree surgeon to see if a deal can be done

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f e at u r e

I always wanted a church wedding, a meal, and a big party afterwards

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f e at u r e

Jenny and Danny It was a classic Irish wedding full of personal touchs when Dublin girl Jenny married Cork man Danny in a stunning winter wedding at the Carlton in Kinsale.

Their Story: After meeting on a night out in Limerick, when a sore foot forced Jenny off the dance floor, Jenny and Danny shared a kiss and exchanged numbers.

“He went off back to Cork,” recalls Jenny, “and I didn’t think I’d hear from him again. But he rang me three days later and we had our first date at the Zoo.”

The speeches were the stand out moment, the whole room was in tears!

Their engagement: For each anniversary, the couple returned to Dublin Zoo, and after four years together Danny popped the question at the very spot where they’d first held hands. “The next year we went back to the Zoo,” Jenny remembers, “and we stopped at the place where he’d proposed.

“He pulled out a little plaque that read ‘Danny asked Jenny to marry him at this spot and she said yes - 28/2/13’. We stuck it up, and it’s still there.”

Their big day: Jenny took the lead on planning their wedding, personalising the day with DIY touches. “My friend and myself made the invitations; I made my bouquet, mass booklets, wedding cake and sweet table. I trawled the internet, and Pinterest was my best friend!” she laughs.

“I always wanted a church wedding, a meal, and a big party afterwards,” she reveals, and Kinsale was top of her wish list. “We thought it would be nice for people travelling to the wedding to stay in Kinsale. I remember immediately falling in love with the Carlton. We checked out other hotels but we kept going back to this one!”

53

Nestled in the east Cork countryside and set on lushly landscaped grounds, the historic Castlemartyr Resort offers all the luxury and space of a country wedding, with the Hotel | Spa | Golf

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f e at u r e Get the Look – Jenny and Danny’s Winter Wedding in Kinsale.

Simple and elegant, the classic, timeless effect of crisp white with a strong accent colour was given the personal touch by Jenny and Danny. With pops of electric blue picking up the bridal party colour scheme, seasonally appropriate wicker hearts lent a warm, rustic charm.

Their magic moment: “The speeches were the stand out moment,” says Jenny fondly. “The whole room was in tears! They were brilliant - really touching.”

Cake from a selection at Healy’s Celebration Cakes, 94 Great William O’Brien Street, Blackpool and English Market

Their top tips: “Do things yourself, as this gives you a great feeling of accomplishment. You feel like you’ve left your mark on the day,” advises Jenny. “Do what you want to do; don’t worry about the small stuff; and don’t worry about the money.”

Wooden heart, €2, Penneys

Their thank yous: “A great band is really important, and to this day people say The Papa Zitas were the best wedding band they’ve ever seen,” gushes Jenny.

Knitted bride and groom, €31.84, Girly Stuff by DeJaVu at etsy. com

“Every supplier we dealt with was so friendly and helpful, I would recommend any of them! Everyone helped make it the most amazing day of our lives!”

Photographer: Fiona Casey Bride: Dress bought in China, shoes from Debenhams, bouquet made by Jenny herself Bridesmaids: Dresses from chichiclothing.co.uk

Bespoke brooch bouquets by The Fairy Godmother’s Weddings, Midketon available at Diamond Bridal, Maylor Street Up In Lights illuminated letters, €14.95 each, Harvey Norman

Groom and groomsmen: Outfitted by Tom Murphys, St Patrick Street Hair: Kim Moynihan, Frankie’s Hair & Beauty, Dillons Cross Make up: Kay Brandon, Cork Bridal Makeup Flowers: Florist4U, Cork String trio: Bravura

Candy cart sweet packages available from Aunty Nellie’s Sweet Shops, auntynellies.ie Glass storage jar, €4.95, Pavilion Garden Centre

Band: The Papa Zitas Glitter ‘Bride’ and ‘Groom’ bunting

by Miss Bella Designs, €14.79, notonthehighstreet.com

55

f e at u r e

Barnabrow was the first venue we looked at, but we had such a short engagement we thought it’d be hard to find someplace we loved

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f e at u r e

DENISE AND CONAL It was a standout summer for filmmaker Conal Thomson, who was not only nominated for best direction at the MTV VMA along with fellow Feel Good Lost founder Brendan Canty for Hozier’s Take Me to Church video, but also married his love, Denise in a colourful and chic ceremony.

Things won’t always go exactly to plan, but what can you do? You just have to go with the flow

Their Story: They first met in college eight years ago, when studying Multimedia in CIT… though it took a couple of years for romance to blossom.

Their engagement: It took Denise completely by surprise, convinced Conal was going to pop the question on another weekend in Galway. “I got my nails done, bought a new dress, but nothing,” she laughs.

Cue the following weekend at Conal’s house and he asked Denise to help him move boxes upstairs. When she went up, the place was lit with candles and he was down on one knee. “It was amazing,” she adds.

Their big day: Breaking tradition, on the morning of the wedding the couple, along with close friends and family, headed to Perry Street Market Café for a “sneaky breakfast” and to get “the speeches out of the way”.

Wanting a relaxed day, Denise initially was thinking a barbecue in the back garden, however, laughs it’s “not really doable in Ireland!”.

57

If this is how you imagined your wedding venue to look like on your special day, why not contact us today.

Your Day, Your Way

Rochestown Road, Douglas, Cork City, Ireland Tel: +353 21 4890800 • Fax: +353 21 4892178 Email: info@rochestownpark.com For further information please visit www.rochestownpark.com

f e at u r e Get the Look – DENISE AND CONAL’S CHIC AND COLOURFUL CEREMONY The bride’s vintage 60s dress from Memories Bridal Boutique set the mood for this floaty, fabulous, and boho affair. Vividly coloured flowers featured heavily throughout, from Denise’s breathtaking floral crown to the strong purple used in the boutonnieres. And pretty bunting and flags added a quirky touch to this country chic affair.

So the ceremony and reception were held at Barnabrow House, a place they both fell in love with. “Barnabrow was the first venue we looked at, but we had such a short engagement we thought it’d be hard to find someplace we loved.

We were lucky enough they had a date available.”

Heart–shaped chalkboard sign, €2.99 for two, Vibes & Scribes

Their magic moment: For Denise it was walking up the aisle, as when she saw Conal, “there could have been no one else in that room”.

“I was a big teary happy mess,” she laughs. Conal’s standout moment was before the start of the ceremony, when they were both facing each other. “She looked amazing and I was trying my best to keep it together, which was hard looking into her big teary eyes,” he says.

Their top tips: “Things won’t always go exactly to plan, but what can you do? You just have to go with the flow.” Also try and relax and take everything in.

Naked cake from a selection available at Lily’s Cakes, Skibbereen

Rosalie footed mug, €13, Marks & Spencer

Wedding wishes cards, €3.99 for 25, Easons

Their thanks yous: “Our florist was amazing, she went above and beyond what we had expected, and her flowers were amazing — they really just framed a wonderful day.”

Fabric bunting, €14.98, selection at the Candle Shop, Paul Street Shopping Centre

Photographer: Derek Hines of Hello Matilda Bride: Vintage 60s dress from Memories Bridal Boutique, flower crown by Colette Mulholland of House of Flowers, Ballincollig Bridesmaids: Oasis Groom: Racing Green at Debenhams Groomsmen: Suits from Red Herring at Debenhams

Silver LOVE cake topper, €16, partyparlour.ie

Blossom & Brogues flags, €7.99, Hallmark on Winthrop Street

59

venues

Venue Variety Whatever your wedding style — free–spirited prettiness; fun–filled quirkiness; or classic fairytale — there’s a wedding venue to suit you...

Fairytale wedding at Fota Island Resort

Bohemian Romance

BALLYVOLANE HOUSE What’s not to love about Ballyvolane House? You can have blessings and ceremonies in the woods or gardens, beside the lakes, or in a large rustic shed if it’s raining. Dinner is in a vintage–style tent; dancing is in the old stone barn; and there’s glamping!

See ballyvolanehouse.ie or phone 025 36349.

THE RECTORY If you get a beautiful summer’s day then this early 19th century residence is the perfect spot. The Rectory is nestled in a woodland setting overlooking the scenic west Cork harbour of Glandore, one of Ireland’s most beautiful sea inlets. Phone 028 33072.

INISH BEG If you picture yourself on a magical private island for your wedding, then try the whimsical Inish Beg, just a few miles from Skibbereen and Baltimore.

Simply breathtaking. See inishbeg.com or phone 028 21745.

BARNABROW COUNTRY HOUSE A private country estate near Ballycotton Bay, Barnabrow is full of magic and charm. It seats 150 guest for dinner, is full of hidden treasures, has 22 bedrooms and self catering cottages.

See barnabrowhouse.ie or phone 021 4652534.

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THE GRAINSTORE From sipping Elderflower Royales on the croquet lawn to dancing the night away in the gorgeous converted 17th century farmyard building — the east Cork Grainstore at Ballymaloe is all about charm and individuality. See ballymaloe.ie or phone 021 4652531.

BLACKWATER CASTLE A medieval castle for your wedding?

The chance to be lord and lady for a day? We’re sold! The charming Blackwater Castle, surrounded by woodlands and a private river and tucked away in north Cork is a spectacular setting for a wedding. See blackwatercastle.com or phone 022 26333.

Something Different

CIT BLACKROCK CASTLE OBSERVATORY Built in the 16th century, CIT Blackrock Castle is a boutique wedding venue overlooking Cork harbour. While the venue hosts wedding ceremonies only, the Castle Café can work with couples for their hospitality needs. For more information see bco.ie or phone 021 4357917.

CORK CITY GAOL It’s haunting, it’s eerie but if you’re looking for something truly dramatic, then the refurbished West Wing at Cork City Gaol could be the answer.

Steeped in history, its architecture and atmosphere will “captivate”. See corkcitygaol.com or email events@ corkcitygaol.com.

THE PINK ELEPHANT Mouth-watering food, stunning coastal location, exclusivity and personal attention… that’s what’s on offer at The Pink Elephant. The restaurant and bar is just a few miles from Kinsale, and has views overlooking Courtmacsherry Bay. See pinkelephant.ie or phone 023 8849608.

VERTIGO @ CORK COUNTY HALL The aptly-named 17th floor Vertigo at the Cork County Hall offers up a commanding view over the surrounding landscape. Up to 250 guests can be accommodated for a drinks reception or up to 180 people for a fully–seated formal dinner.

Phone: 021 485 6610.

THE ANGLER’S REST One of the newest kids on the wedding scene is the Carrigrohane bar, ideally located on the banks of the River Lee and just minutes from the city centre. The picturesque spot is now an officially– registered venue for civil ceremonies, and also boasts a new marquee and function room. Phone 021 4871167.

LEWIS GLUCKSMAN GALLERY For couples with a love of culture, then the award–winning Lewis Glucksman Gallery is a great option. The space is uber contemporary, while the galley restaurant, Fresco, offers delicious dining for guests. See glucksman.org or phone 021 4901844.

venues

Timeless Elegance

FOTA ISLAND RESORT One of the leading five–star wedding hotels in Ireland, Fota Island Resort offers a glorious combination of elegance, amenities, natural beauty, serenity and service in one. See fotaisland.ie or phone 021 4883700.

THE KINGSLEY From its stunning location overlooking the River Lee to its opulent interior, The Kingsley is Cork’s most elegant address for a wedding venue with flair.

The two–storey penthouse suite, with outdoor Jacuzzi, open fire, and dining room table, needs to be experienced to be believed. See thekingsley.ie or phone 021 4800500.

THE MARYBOROUGH HOTEL Now with a brand new orangery — complete with Wisteria trees — The Maryborough Hotel is even more breathtakingly beautiful. The stunning 18th century house sits at the centre of 18 acres of natural parkland in the Douglas suburbs. See maryborough. com or phone 021 4918310.

FLEMINGS RESTAURANT For an intimate reception, try the stunning Flemings, tucked away in leafy Tivoli. The Georgian house of Michael and Eileen Fleming can cater for up to 90 guests for a sit down meal; while further guests are welcome in the evening. See flemingsrestaurant.ie or phone 021 4821621.

INCHYDONEY ISLAND LODGE & SPA Unquestionably, this stunning hotel is a fabulous place to wed, and now it also has a renovated headland overlooking the Atlantic Ocean. See inchydoneyisland.com or phone 023 8833143.

The Orangery at Maryborough Hotel & Spa

HAYFIELD MANOR Think of Hayfield Manor, and instantly luxury springs to mind. Discreetly nestled within beautiful walled gardens, it’s a tranquil oasis in the city. Their several gorgeous reception rooms can cater for varying numbers of guests. See hayfieldmanor.ie or phone 021 4845900.

Cork City Gaol is an alternative option for a wedding ceremony

The family-owned & operated 4! Dromhall Hotel offers you exceptional food, first-class service and a beautiful Banqueting Suite

We’d love to show you around “Absolute spectacular service all the way through from the very first email enquiry we made. Every question was answered and every request was met. The day was perfect!! We can’t thank the Dromhall enough for making our wedding day the best experience of our lives.. so far!”

Tracy & Declan, Feb 2015 Mention this ad to receive a complimentary drinks reception + our Chef’s home-made canapés. Applies to new bookings only.

Contact Sue on 064 6639300 sue@randleshotels.com www.dromhall.com Dromhall Hotel, Muckross Road, Killarney, Co Kerry

61

honeymoon

CAPTIVATING CRUISES If you fancy honeymooning in multiple destinations, creating unforgettable memories along the way, then set sail on the high seas with a luxurious cruise.

C

ould there be anything more romantic than sailing into the sunset together? For those who love to travel — and enjoy a touch of luxury — cruises are the perfect way to experience multiple far–flung destinations on one amazing trip.

Every day offers a different experience.

Arriving into a new port each morning, you can choose to stay onboard; get off and walk around; or take an organised trip. That evening, as the ship sails once again, dine onboard, go to a show, and visit the casino, bars or disco.

The following morning, the magic starts all over again in a different place.

The most popular Mediterranean cruises are from Barcelona or Venice — best taken from May to October — or for the adventurous, fly to Miami and sail the Caribbean. Royal Caribbean also has a Royal Weddings service, so couples can get married onboard or at a romantic port of call.

For both sun–worshipping couples or culture vultures, a cruise is the perfect launch into married life.

Lee Travel offer a full range of cruise options. Contact Linda Cronin or Sheila Deasy at 021 4277111 or see leetravel.ie for more details.

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honeymoon

STUNNING SANTORINI If you’re looking for striking views, secluded bathing spots, romantic vistas and old–world charm, head for Santorini.

W

ith its blue–domed white houses perched atop the cliff face and turquoise waters shimmering below, picturesque Santorini is easily one of the world’s most beautiful locations.

Jaw–dropping sunsets and easy laid back charm means this Greek island offers everything needed for the perfect honeymoon.

One of the best ways to appreciate the geographical beauty of the island is to hike along the Caldera rim, but those

looking for a more relaxing treat can visit vineyards to sample a glass of the famed sweet Vinsanto. The beaches of Perissa, Kamari and Red Beach near Akrotiri are also perfect for lazing away an afternoon.

For a touch of romance, the magical sunsets of Santorini must be experienced every evening — but avoid the Oia crowds by witnessing the event in the gorgeous village of Imerovigli, capped off with a meal of Mediterranean delicacies at Kapari Wine Restaurant. Pure perfection.

Fly to Santorini with Abbey Travel. Phone 01 8047100 or see abbeytravel.ie

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honeymoon

NATURAL NEW ZEALAND For a long–haul honeymoon option, consider magical New Zealand with its spectacular glaciers, lush valleys and magnificent mountains.

N

ew Zealand is the stuff that adventure travellers’ dreams are made of. Once you get over the distance (an adventure in itself), New Zealand reveals itself in all its grandeur, with jaw–droppingly beautiful coastlines, stunning beaches, impressive geysers and giant glaciers. Over the two islands, there is an abundance to be explored — not only the aforementioned untamed natural beauty but also incredible outdoor activities, cultural highlights and of course, terrific new world wines.

On the trip of a lifetime include

Travel Focus has a 12–night itinerary to New Zealand.

Phone 021 4320898 or see travelfocus.ie.

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Auckland, the City of 100 Lovers as it’s known by the Maoris, with its museums, markets and plethora of adventure activities from bridge climbing to canyoning. Experience the impressive Milford Sound fjord, whale watch off the Kaikoura Peninsula, visit the stunning geothermal waters of Wai-O-Tapu Thermal Wonderland, and don’t forget the amazing “pancake” rocks and lush forests of Paparoa National Park, the breathtaking Fox Glacier, and the blissful Lake Wakatipu. Phew! You’ll need a second honeymoon to get over it.

honeymoon

MARVELLOUS MALDIVES If you’re looking for water bungalows, crystal–clear seas and swaying coconut trees then look no further than the spectacular Indian Ocean archipelago.

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ancy gazing out at turquoise waters, the sea lapping at your bare feet and sipping a cocktail? This dream can be realised in the paradise that is the Maldives, a truly intimate and romantic location, which has unrivalled luxury, lagoons, and beaches. A chain of nearly 1,200 islands, almost 100 of them offer accommodation including the famed water bungalows, perched above the water on stilts.

For active couples, this little piece of paradise offers spectacular diving and snorkelling, as the clear seas of the

archipelago reveal stunning coral atolls, schools of tropical fish, whale sharks, and mantra rays, and for those who fancy something a bit more relaxing, stunning white–sand beaches can be explored … or simply chilled out on.

Dining Maldives–style is just as colourful and intriguing as the island country itself, with fresh seafood and spicy curries like the delectable must–try dish Mas riga.

A one–of–a–kind escape, the Maldives is the ultimate in relaxation and romance.

Travel Agent offers packages to the Maldives.

Phone 021 4320710 or see travelagent.ie.

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g if t s

Psst...

It’s your big day, but you couldn’t do it alone!

Don’t forget to thank your wedding party with a lovely gift! for Her

Vintage Lou Lou silver & pearl earrings, €49.50, Azure Jewellery on Carey’s Lane

Thank You Bridesmaid Card

by Norma&Dorothy, €5.54, notonthehighstreet.com

I Love You Friend bangle by Alex and Ani, €36, Kilkenny stores

Antiqued leaf ring by Aliquo, €30, aliquo.ie

Silver Torc cufflinks by Claddagh Design, €175, Chic The World of Jewellery, Oliver Plunkett St

Hip flask, €50, Newbridge Silverware

Classic Casio watch, €45, Michel Jewellers, St Patrick’s St

Ragtales Chester the Fox soft toy, €29.99, Joyce J & Co, Princes St

Panda watch by Tikkers, €22.50, Debenhams

for HIM

Jos Von Arx wallet, €29, Simply Suits, Kinsale Road Commercial Centre

FOR THE LITTLE ONES

Converse for toddlers, €37, Schuh

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D for Diamond Pink Heart Bangle, €75, Michel Jewellers

New All Inclusive

Wedding PaCkage From â‚Ź 68.00 per person Includes: Chauffeur Transfer, Wedding Flowers, Wedding Photographer, Wedding Cake

& The Kingsley Tea, coffee and biscuits with a summer cocktail or mulled wine on arrival.

3 Course menu with wine, evening food and the bridal suite on your wedding night.

The T +353(0)21 480 0527 E events@thekingsley.ie

FOTA Collection The

FOTA Collection HOTEL SPA HEALTH CLUB RESIDENCE The Kingsley, Victoria Cross, Cork, Ireland. www.thekingsley.ie

The

Find us on

FOTA Collection

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116 Patrick’s Street, Cork. Call us on : +353 21 4271217