Irish Wedding Diary Magazine - Spring 2019

IRISH

SpRIng 2019

DIARY

Your Complete Guide to Getting Married in Ireland

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Wedding dresses

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€5.80 £4.00

www.IrishWeddingDiary.ie

LO VE CELEBRATE

justinalexander.com

W W W. PA L O M A B L A N C A . C O M • M A D E W I T H L V E I N C A N A D A

Irish Wedding

DIARY

Spring 2019

Welcome Hello everyone and welcome once again to another issue of Ireland’s best-loved and top-selling bridal magazine. Well, first off let’s give a huge congratulations to all you 2019 brides out there; your big year has finally arrived. Most of you will have thought the day would never come, but the best day of your life is approaching fast and you’d better be ready. It’s going to be a hectic year but also an immensely important and enjoyable one. This year will be forever etched into your memory as one you’ll treasure for the rest of your life.

So, where are you in the planning stage? Are you ticking off the final few things on your list, or are you panicking, realising you’ve so much to do and so little time to do it in? Most of you will be somewhere in between but wherever you are on your wedding journey you’ll find something inside this issue to point you in the right direction. If you’re a 2020, 2021 bride or even later, you can relax a bit as you flick through the magazine and dream of your big day and we trust you’ll find inspiration inside these pages to help you plan your dream day…

If however you’re looking for that dream dress, we have a fantastic collection of dresses from some of Ireland’s leading dress designers, the best bridal boutiques from north to south, east and west, and a whole host of internationally acclaimed wedding labels from New York, Australia, Milan, London and Tallaght. Finding your dream wedding dress really does start here.

Every bride wants their wedding to be unique and inside this issue we’ve got plenty of quirky ideas to get you thinking differently. Everyone knows that weddings are expensive, so in this issue we’ve taken a look at ways to budget for your wedding without getting into massive debt, and we’ve also looked at the pros and cons of getting married abroad. We’ve got plenty of ideas for your gift registry list plus a bumper crop of outfits for the mother of the bride and grooms and occasion wear for guests, too.

Honeymoons are the one part of the wedding which is truly just about the couple, and is often an afterthought, but it’s how you’ll start married life together. With that in mind, we have put together a great selection of honeymoon ideas for you to dream about. If you’re planning a

Cover Dress by Paloma Blanca www.palomablanca.com

wedding abroad you’ll find plenty of ideas for the dream destination wedding.

Publisher: IrishWeddingDiary.ie Ltd.

some wonderful ideas between the covers of this issue. We’ve got soloists and rock bands to

Advertising: Paul Collins, Sales Director 01-498 3255 paulc@irishweddingdiary.ie Vivian Flynn, Sales Director 01-498 3242 vivian@irishweddingdiary.ie Creative Director: Paul McCormack: 01-498 3211 paulm@irishweddingdiary.ie Editor: Andrea Hayes Email: Andrea@irishweddingdiary.ie Editorial Assistant: Alex Joyce Alex@irishweddingdiary.ie

We haven’t forgotten the little extras that will help to make your wedding unique and we have set the tone, photographers to capture the event, outfits for the men and everything you will need to make your day perfect. We have a gift section with some lovely pieces that you can put on your gift registry list or just go out and treat yourself.

Don’t forget our great app where you can get the entire magazine, just as you see it here on your IOS and Android device. You can pop it in your pocket and check it out on your commute to work or when sipping coffee. Just search the App Store for Irish Wedding Diary and download the app for free. If you like what you see you can get a yearly subscription for less than €10.

So sit back relax and read as we’ve got your every wedding need covered...

Happy Planning!

Press Releases to: Alex@irishweddingdiary.ie or Rear 177 Rathgar Road, Rathmines, Dublin 6.

Photography: Thomas Sunderland, White Amber Photography Contributors: Andrea Hayes, Editor Elaine Hession Alex Joyce Peter Cole Marcus Stewart Claudia Gocoul

Design: Outline Graphics. www.outline.ie

Andrea Hayes

Irish Wedding Diary, Rear 177 Rathgar Road, Rathmines, Dublin 6, Ireland.

Advertising: 01-498 3255 / 01-498 3242.

Email: info@irishweddingdiary.ie. Website: www.irishweddingdiary.ie Copyright: Irish Wedding Diary.ie Ltd. The entire contents of the Irish Wedding Diary are copyright and may not be reproduced in any form without the written permission of the Publishers.

Notice to advertisers; the proprietor does not accept any liability for any loss occasioned by the fact that the advertisement does not appear on any specified day or at all or for any loss or damage claimed to be caused by an error or inaccuracy in the printing and publication of any advertisement.

6 I IWD Contents I Spring 2019

www.irishweddingdiary.ie

Collection 2019 Find authorized retailers at: www.airebarcelona.com

BrIDe e of the Year shoW hoW hoW

34 CONTENTS ONTENTS

16

16 26

QuIrkY’ Y Y’ WeDDInGs s

WeDDInG G travel ravel

118

2019 BrIDal al ons ColleCtIons

90 CaBra ra Castle Photoshoot

WeDDInG G venues enues

Competitions Preview of the Bride of the Year Show 2019 Spring Fashion Wedding Beauty

58

Weight Watchers Wedding Weight Loss

60

60

2019 Wedding Dress Collections

70

Wedding Gifts

90

Clanard Court Hotel Bridal Photoshoot

108

Grooms Room

106

Wedding Budgeting

118

Something Different Quirky Wedding Ideas

140

154

8 I IWD Contents I Spring 2019

Wedding Diary News

126

108 Grooms’ room oom

ClanarD Court Photoshoot

42 50

mother other of the BrID BrIDe IDe

70

34

WeDDInG nG GIfts fts

sPrInG nG on fashIon

health alth & BeautY Beaut

42

50

WeDDInG G neWs s

184

126 138 140

Outfits for Mothers of the Bride and Groom IWD Wedding Awards 2019 Cabra Castle Bridal Photoshoot

154

Wedding Travel: Honeymoons and Weddings Abroad

184

Ireland’s Leading Wedding Venues

Collection 2019 Find authorized retailers at: www.lunanovias.com

W W W. M I K A E L L A B R I D A L . C O M • M A D E W I T H L V E I N C A N A D A

stellayork.com 6758 6758

essensedesigns.com essensedesigns.com

D2597 D2597

Style 1786

Kenneth Wi nston k e n n e t h w i n s t o n . c o m

Style 1808

k e n n e t h w i n s t o n . c o m

winter

Whimsical

Weddings

DiaryNews

Ring

Wow Up Your

Want to add extra sparkle to your engagement ring? Christopher Murphy Jewellers have an exciting and innovative way to update and give new life to your engagement ring while still keeping your cherished sentimental value.

Add a halo of glistening diamonds around your centre stone or along the band for the ultimate glamorous look, as adding extra diamonds will always enhance and add radiance to any ring.

There’s nothing cosier than a lovefilled wedding day spent with friends at Christmas at The Millh ouse in Slane. A truly romantic and intimate party, offering luxur ious settees in front of big log fires for you and your guests to relax and enjoy for the whole day. On the banks of the River Boyn e you can make this stunning, fifteen-bedroom manor house your own exclusive country home for your special day. Bless ings and ceremonies are held in the Mill Ceremony Room, a unique setting full of character with original brick work, exposed beams, chandeliers and rustic charm. A romantic haven in a wond erful garden location just 40 minutes from Dublin, this venu e allows complete exclusivity for your wedding day. The Millhouse combines old-world charm and contemporary design to create a unique, luxurious wedding venue.

To arrange a viewing appointment, email them at information@themillhouse.ie or call 041 9820878. www.themillhouse.ie

Curve Super

Since Dreamy Curves launched in Bray in June 2018, brides have been coming from all over Ireland to check out the launch collections in both bridal and bridesmaid dresses.

Their experience has been a personal one in terms of Dreamy Curves’ salon service as well as availing themselves of a huge choice of dresses in sizes up to Size 32.

Dreamy Curves have added to their designer collections this autumn, and now stock Maggie Sottero, Rebecca Ingram, White Rose, Nicole and Lou Lou in addition to their existing designer offerings from Veromia Sonsie, Romantica Silhoutte, Callista and Watters Wtoo. They have also recently started stocking a fantastic shapewear range from Irish company Atir, to add that extra support when it’s needed. It’s a one-stop bridal experience at Dreamy Curves, with shoes from Rainbow Club and Lexus and beautiful hairpieces and veils also on offer. www.dreamycurves.ie Tel: 01 2765500

16 I IWD I Wedding Diary News

There are many redesign options and ideas available with prices from €500. So now you can make your engagement ring look bigger and brighter at a very reasonable cost. From a simple upgrade to a total remodel of your ring.. .the choices are endless at Christopher Murphy Jewellers.

For more information on how to Wow Up Your Ring, visit their website www.cmjewellers.com/wow-up-your-ring/ To make an appointment, call them on 01 8426197 or email Christopher on chris@cmjewellers.com.

mi Nao

www.mon-cheri.co.uk

IWDiarySpring_MonCheri_Page.indd 1

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DiaryNews

Celebrations

A year of

Stylish Brides are delighted h brides for over 60 years, Marians, Boyle, dressing stylis for 2019. ction colle l brida their ners to to be adding fabulous new desig essional knowledgeable stylists and prof Marians are renowned for their e with rienc expe and enjoyable shopping service creating a personalized htsoug t mos ld’s wor the ding dresses from an extensive collection of wed y you orar emp cont and ic class to vintage after designers. From modern, ovski crystals, ding hand beading with Swar will find beautiful gowns inclu

silk chiffon, Mikado silks. A you book e to we strongly recommend must visit boutique for any Brid ctions. colle new their see to 031 071 9662 a one to one consultation on www.marians.ie

12is12 - a year of celebration at The Twelve 2019 will be a very special year for The Twelve as it’s the year that the hotel celebrates its 12th birthday – the year 12is12.

As they never like to do things by halves (or half dozens), rather than have one big shindig on the date that the hotel opened its doors for business for the very first time, instead they are going to spend the entire year – twelve whole months! – celebrating 12is12.

There will be parties and pop-ups, festivals and fabulous food. They’ll be praising their producers, putting their amazing staff front and centre, counting their blessings and blessing their counters with exciting new 12is12 birthday brews and brilliant 12is12 pizzas and cocktails. Their friends upstairs in West will be wowing them with new dishes, and they’ll have some niche events and fun times where they can flash a little of their expertise and their pleasure in minding people that has made them an award-winning hotel with a very big heart.

Hope you can join the party! #12is12 thetwelvehotel.ie • westrestaurant.ie

Chalet Beauty

The Hair and Beauty Chalet recently celebrated ten years in business winning many awards along the way. With vast experience in the hair and beauty industry, providing wedding hair and makeup has always been a wonderful part of their work.They offer the bride the chance to relax in her own home or hotel on the morning of her wedding while they look after the hair and makeup creations for the complete bridal party. Prior to the big day they also provide an extensive range of treatments including hair colouring and styling, Skinician facials and massage, He Shi spray tan, NSI gel/acrylic nails, Gelicure three-week polish and semi-permanent Hollywood Lashes.

Visit www.thehairandbeautychalet.com or Facebook: The Hair & Beauty Chalet.

18 I IWD I Wedding Diary News

Email: thehairandbeautychalet@gmail.com Tel: 059 9158795.

RDS , 2 6 - 27 JA NUARY 2 01 9

Everyone’s a VIP at our Wedding fair.

Bring your whole wedding party to The Bride of The Year Show @ the RDS. - Meet over 170 exhibitors - Be inspired by the legendary Catwalk Shows - Drop into the ‘I Do School’ for those essential tips and trends - Relax at our new Afternoon Tea Rooms

Tick brid ets on sa eoft hey le now ears how at .ie

- Get your nails done at our new show Nail Bar

Organised by Eventhaus on behalf of Terry Burns Wedding Exhibitions Ltd

Wow

DiaryNews Your Guests

Love of Dogs For The

Why not #PawsForThought if you are

considering buying a puppy. The Dogs Trust would love if you could consider a rescue dog #AdoptDontShop. They would always advise you to get some advice first or you could also take some time to read ‘Dog Tales with Andrea Hayes’, which is a ‘pawsome’ read! This lovely book is about rescue dogs who rescued their owners right back! It contains 13 heart-warming stories of dogs that have been given a second chance at happiness, and of the dedicated owners who found a WOW comprises of four experienced musicians who have come together to form the ultimate wedding band. Between them, their members have played every major venue in Ireland from the 3arena in Dublin to the SSE arena in Belfast. WOW is a unique, fully costumed party band experience. Starting your night off with a selection of swing music dressed and performed in the style of The Rat Pack, then seamlessly changing costume for classic party hits. Then once again, a slick transition into iconic 80s attire before it’s time for the 90s. The final part of the show is filled with current floor fillers, keeping your night and the dance floor hopping till the wee hours!

‘WOW played the @TwitterDublin Christmas party this year and to say they were a hit is an understatement. We didn’t want you to stop playing on the night!’ Shona O’Toole – Twitter.

See www.facebook.com/wowpartyband Tel: 087 9831232 or email wowpartyband@gmail.com.

place in their hearts and homes for the abandoned animals. It could be the perfect gift for the dog lover in your life; and a percentage of the sales go directly to Dogs Trust Ireland when you buy from their online store at www.dogstrust.ie.

Dogs Trust is Ireland’s largest dog welfare charity. Their mission is to bring an end to the destruction of stray and abandoned dogs in Ireland. Would you consider including your furry four legged canine friend in your wedding celebrations?

You can support Dogs Trust Ireland and include them in your special day with their unique and beautifully designed Dogs Trust donation card keepsakes, which are a fantastic and popular alternative to traditional wedding favours!

You’d be barking mad not to check out page 206 to find out more.

Redesign Exciting

The Four-Star Riverside Park Hotel and Leisure Club at Enniscorthy are delighted to announce the exciting redesign and renovation of the ever-popular Hilton Edwards Ballroom.

With a substantial investment, The Hilton Edwards Ballroom has been completely transformed into one of the most luxurious ballrooms in the Southeast. The windows have all been replaced with floor-to-ceiling tinted glass, inviting the beautiful countryside scenery into the ballroom. Wedding couples and their guests will now be able to sit back and enjoy views of the beautiful River Slaney flowing by.

The ballroom has been remodelled and redesigned to give a completely new and lavish setting for weddings, conferences and banqueting events. The design has introduced a mood-lit ceiling, with over 60 colours to choose from – and the new chandeliers catch the mood-lit ceiling perfectly, giving every event a completely different ambiance.

The hotel is introducing new gold Chiavari chairs that will exquisitely complement the rich, warm golden colours of the design. The ballroom lobby has been transformed, the walls have been raised and a skylight added, and the golden wallpaper and decorative chairs transform this area into comfortable and opulent perfection for your guests to

22 I IWD I Wedding Diary News

mingle in before your banquet.

Email: www.riversideparkhotel.ie. Tel: 053 923 7800

La Bella Sposa Bridal 58A North Street, Swords, Co Dublin Tel: 01 8075712 Website: www.labellasposa.ie Email: info@labellasposa.ie Facebook: www.facebook.com/labellasposabridal

V I C T O R I A K AY DE S I GN ER

B RI D A L

W EA R

W W W . V I C T O R I A K A Y . C O . U K

SPRING / SUMMER 2019 Ivory wedding shoes now including complimentary colour customisation for brides and wedding guests by the UK’s leading colour experts.

rainbowclub.co.uk

Irish Wedding Diary Making Waves.indd 1

26/11/2018 13:19

Marian Gale D4 Quality, Service and Exclusivity

Brides, Black Tie, Bridesmaids

Please phone for an appointment.

8 The Mall, Donnybrook, Dublin 4.

Tel: 01 269 7460 www.mariangale.ie Dress : Matilda â‚Ź1699

Ukulele Trio

DiaryNews

Ukebox is a ukulele trio

made up of three of the most reputable musi-

cians in Ireland who play and harmonise together like nobody else. This unique idea will bring something extra special to your day. Ukebox can dress in Hawaiian attire to bring fun and sunshine to your special day or can dress formally in suits for the more formal events. Ukebox can tailor a set to suit ceremony music, or a more upbeat set for drinks receptions or corporate events. They also enjoy walking from table to table singing and taking requests! Ukebox are available for events all over Ireland.

See www.facebook.com/ukeboxmusic Tel: 087 9831232 or email ukeboxmusic@gmail.com

Midlands Heart of

Life’s

Journal

the

Congratulations from all at IWD to our editor, Andrea Hayes, who has just released her fourth book, ‘Mind Body Soul Journal’ which is a follow up to her bestselling ‘My Life Goals Journal’. The good news is that her new book is just in time for 2019. If you want to live your best life in 2019 then

this book is for you, or maybe it could be the perfect thank you gift idea for your special gal pals who are your bridesmaids.

Say ‘I do’ at the newly refurbished four-star wedding venue in the heart of the

This timeless journal, beautifully illustrated with

midlands: the all new Midlands Park Hotel.

pages for monthly journaling, is an indispensable

The all new four-star Midlands Park Hotel invites you to view their newly designed

companion if you want to live a more focused,

ballroom, bedrooms and suites. An investment of €7 million over the past year and

positive life in 2019.

half has transformed this property into a very sought after wedding venue in the heart

And if you don’t believe us just look at what people

of the midlands. Nestled in the heart of Portlaoise town, the sophisticated urban

are saying about this beautiful journal.

setting is the perfect location for your wedding day.

Venue Breathtaking

From the moment you arrive, the striking entrance creates an impressive sense of

Praise for Mind, Body, Soul Journal ‘Set a satnav for your life by following this practical journal and unleash the best version of you.’

Norah Casey ‘Lovely book … a spiritual Filofax.’ Patrick Bergin.

‘Full of positivity and inspiration, this book is a tonic – I loved it.’ Alan Hughes ‘This book will make anybody’s life journey easy and joyful. I absolutely recommend it. It’s a book for everyone to help them on their journey.’ Helen Goldin ‘The most astonishingly uplifting work I’ve read all year! This isn’t just a book to read, it’s a bible to live your best life by.’ Claudia Carroll ‘Finally! A blueprint for creating the life you want in this powerful and authentic spiritual guidebook.You will pick it up, put it down, and pick it up again and again.’ Paul Congdon, editor of Positive Life Well done Andrea.

space and classic modern elegance. Immerse yourself in the luxury of the newly renovated ballroom with its natural lighting, lavish décor, mood-lit ceiling, and fairy-lit backdrop. Our brand new Chiavari chairs complete the opulent style and feel of our glamorous ballroom; they are the perfect finishing touch. The conservatory has been transformed into a luxurious outside space perfect for pre-wedding reception drinks.

A magnificent, opulent bridal suite has just been completed with a luxurious round eight-foot bed, walk-in wardrobe, double shower unit overlooking the bedroom, jacuzzi bath with TV, and a lavish reception room with a further four suites beside the bridal suite in their own exclusive wing – just perfect for your entire wedding party.

The hotel offers a choice of banqueting suites catering for up to 350 guests.

Complimentary Civil Ceremony Suites are also available for up to 200 guests.

Ideally located only an hour from Dublin and less than an hour and half from Cork, Limerick and Galway, the new Midlands Park Hotel is the ideal location for your wedding. Luxury in the heart of the midlands

28 I IWD I Wedding Diary News

www.midlandsparkhotel.com Tel: 057-867 8588

A N N E K C M

W W W. S O P H I AT O L L I . C O . U K

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Glasnevin

Bridal Corner

Happy New Year

01-8600140 info@bridalcorner.ie

Opening Hours Mon-Sat 9.30 -5.30 • Sunday 11-4 Jan

FABULOUS NEW 2019 COLLECTIONS.

ALLUREBRIDALS.COM

Bride of the Year Show 2019 Main Hall, RDS Saturday 26th & Sunday 27th January 2019 11am – 5pm www.brideoftheyearshow.ie

our Make Y ing Wedd m a e r D t The a y t i l a Rea e Year h t f o Bride 2019 Show

Save The Date The Bride of the Year Show returns to the RDS, Dublin on Saturday 26 and Sunday 27 January 2019, and is THE ultimate destination for brides and grooms in the midst of planning their dream day. Whether traditional, quirky, vintage or themed, there will be something to suit every wedding.

No matter what

Set to wow even more

your

brides and grooms, the two-

is,

taking you or who you are

place to plan and perfect your special day; from inspiration for your dream dress, the

walking up the aisle with, The Bride of the

photographer who can capture the perfect shot

Year Show welcomes everyone on the wedding

to evening entertainment that will make you

planning journey.

dance the night away!

With leading wedding exhibitors in attendance, covering

all

aspects

of

planning

your

wedding, the Bride of the Year Show is one that all engaged couples look forward to and remember!

As you browse the stunning styles, sample delicious cakes and check out idyllic venue ideas, you will get to meet leading Irish wedding professionals, wedding planners from home and abroad and destination specialists.

34 I IWD Preview I Bride of the Year Show

budget

where your ideas are

day extravaganza is the ideal

It is the only Wedding Show you need!

planning, the show will not only save you

ideas you need to achieve your dream wedding-

New For 2019!

time but also money, as many exhibitors have

day look, pairing beautiful dresses

Bursting with wedding inspiration, The Bride of

exclusive show-only offers and discounts.

with on-trend hair and makeup looks, plus beautiful

the Year Show is the ultimate day out, where you can buy and book everything you need to make

Anyone currently planning their big day can take

accessory

your dream wedding a reality. Your visit will be

advantage of talking and exchanging ideas with

well as bridal wear,

packed with inspiration and creative ideas from

the professionals, who really do make wedding

the

over 150 of the finest wedding suppliers, and

dreams come true. Whether you are planning a

the latest bridesmaid

our programme of features will ensure every

low-key, intimate day or an all-out glamorous

dresses,

detail of your wedding is fine-tuned.

party, the talented and professional exhibitors

wear, mother-of-the-

are sure to help you on your way to your dream

bride outfits and suits

day!

for the groom.

New features include: •

ideas.

shows

feature occasion-

Cupcakes and treats galore with Afternoon

•

Get pampered at the deluxe Nail Bar

Sun, Sand and Sea – Say ‘I Do’ Abroad!

•

Book a free seat at the ‘I Do’ School,

At The Bride of the Year Show, destination

and

hosted by Sara Kennedy, Irish Wedding

weddings are a speciality!

surprises along

Tea

With

music,

dance

the

Blog, a must see for all soon-to-be brides,

•

As

moves a

way,

few the

bridesmaids and mothers of the bride

Find everything for your perfect wedding abroad

Catwalk

Shows

Visit the Something New, Something Blue

from our selection of knowledgeable wedding

are sure to help

Village, home to all the trinkets and treats

experts, from key locations across the world

you say ‘I do’ in the

you need to make your day sparkle

all under one roof at Ireland’s largest spring

right dress for you!

wedding showcase.

For those hoping to have their wedding abroad,

The ultimate destination for wedding inspiration

whether it is on the beautiful shores of Lake

With everything you need to plan your special

Garda, or overlooking an enchanting Spanish

day all under one roof, The Bride of the Year

monastery, you will meet wedding specialists

Show is not to be missed! It takes place in the

from the best locations in Europe, Asia, Africa,

Main Hall of the RDS, Dublin on Saturday 26 and

America, the Caribbean and beyond. Our

Sunday 27 January 2019.

industry experts will be on hand to provide

For more information, or to book tickets, visit

advice, inspiration and money-saving tips, so

www.brideoftheyearshow.ie

you can plan your dream wedding with ease and excitement!

Save Time & Money! opportunity to meet with a range of leading

Watch the latest bridal trends come to life

wedding specialists, all under one roof, who

Our spectacular Catwalk Shows present a variety

will be on hand to offer invaluable advice and

of stunning gowns for every style and budget –

inspiration for your special day.

helping you to ‘Say Yes!’ to your dream dress.

Everything you need, want and dream of for

An integral part of The Bride of the Year Show,

your special day can be booked on the one

and taking place at 12:30 and 3:30 p.m. daily,

day. Helping to take the stress out of wedding

the Catwalk Shows will inspire you with all the

The Bride of the Year Show gives you the

be Not to

missed

n Show eymoo n o H ! & edding er 2019 The W eptemb S in els ning chann e retur social will b r u o n out o prize n eye ws and e Keep a n , s ate w upd ie for sho WED. s-@ y a w a give

The Bride Of The Year Show is organised by Eventhaus Ltd. on behalf of Terry Burns Wedding Exhibitions Ltd.

Bride of the Year Show I IWD Preview I 35

Weddings DiaryNews Waterside

Entertainment Five Star

The Looks Band make it

The Four-Star Salthill Hotel is the leading wedding waterside venue in the West of Ireland, with a 4 star wedding service. Offering all inclusive wedding packages starting from only €58 per person, with tailored bespoke packages also available.

The Salthill Hotel is located only 32 steps from the stunning Salthill Promenade, the perfect backdrop, teamed with a top class service.

Wedding Coordinator Hazel Hodgins and her wedding team are specialists in making your dream day a reality, Engage with Hazel today and book your wedding appointment Call 091 522711 or email weddings@salthillhotel.com

simple for you to make the right choice.With high ene rgy, live music, the r Ireland with professiona l musicians, an extensive set list and impressive sound and lighting. The group are dedicated wed ding band entertainment what it takes to put on specialists and know the perfect show for non -stop dancing. Music from 60s, 70s and 80s like The classic bands of the Beatles, Queen and Jour ney, while contemporary such as Bruno Marrs, Ade music from artists le and Taylor Swift keep the dancefloor full from last. The Looks Band can the first dance to the also provide ceremony mus ic, drinks reception mus to finish out the night. You ic and a DJ service can have it all! Check out The Looks Band at ww .They are, simply – superio w.thelooksband.ie r entertainment; Five Star Entertainment.

Spend five minutes and save hours of work! Ph: 087-1768014 / 087-767247 7. band have played all ove

Win Your Band

Bridaan l New

In Cav

in Cavan stocking new bridal shop Amsha Bridal is a l labels. Based in rld’s leading brida some of the wo only three miles . Cavan, they are Crossdoney, Co n. from Cavan tow elle to come, ment with Mich Book an appoint dding gowns we l the beautifu see, and try on Sacha James , urg nb or Martin Th from Sophia Tolli, an amazing First l. They also have and Venus Brida Pie. Contact el from Sweetie Communion lab 57.

59 80 Bridal on 0877 Michelle at Amsha ber Photography

hite Am Photograph by W

36 I IWD I Wedding Diary News

WIN YOUR BAND WITH THE BENTLEY BOYS! Attending one of the Bentley Boys renowned showcases is must for your wedding to-do list in order to experience the Wow factor the boys bring to any event. And now, attending one of their showcases could see you in with a chance of winning the Bentley Boys for your big day, a prize worth €2,500!

The Bentley Boys showcase regularly in Dublin, Belfast, Cork and Athlone.

See www.bentleyboysband.ie/winyourband for full details and T&Cs. Follow the Bentley Boys on Instagram, Facebook and Twitter, or subscribe to their YouTube channel. Phone Dublin (01) 4434336, Belfast: (028) 9099 2322 or Galway: (091) 442350. Email info@bentleyboysband.ie.

PHOENIX GOWNS Danielle Couture

Phoenix Gowns

Envy by Phoenix

www.daniellecouture.co.uk

www.phoenixgowns.co.uk

www.envybyphoenix.co.uk

Stockists - Northern Ireland Angel Star Bridal Boutique - Belfast www.angelstarbridal.co.uk

Naomi Bridal- Ballyclare www.naomibridal.co.uk

Tomorrows - City of Derry www.tomorrowsformal.com

Bridal Elegance - Larne www.bridalelegance-boutique.co.uk

Reflections - Lisburn 028 9266 8282

Wedded Bliss - Ballymena, www.weddedblissbridalhouse.com

Stockists - Republic of Ireland BellaDonna Bridal - Galway www.belladonnagalway.com

Something New Bridal Boutique - Letterkenny www.somethingnewbridalboutique.ie

Eves Bridal - Tullamore, www.evesbridal.ie

Smart Brides - Portlaoise, www.smartbrides.ie

The Bridal Emporium - Miltown Malbay, www.thebridalemporium.ie

The White Room - Mullingar, www.thewhiteroom.ie

15% Off DiaryNews Exclusive

Readers’ Offer

Edel Tuite, award winning Irish bridal & wedding

dress designer, is known for creating expertly

crafted gowns that truly capture the beauty & spirit of all brides-to-be, making their dream wedding gown which they will treasure forever.

With a wide range of bridal wear and her new 2019 collection to try on at her bridal

Special Offer

studio in Drogheda, just 25 minutes from Dublin Airport and one hour from Belfast, we highly recommend a visit and for all our Irish Wedding Diary brides-to-be you will get an EXCLUSIVE 15% off ANY gown from her extensive range. Dresses start from as little as €1,200 & are exquisitely tailored to flatter all body shapes & sizes as well as all types of budgets.

Edel has been attracting brides from all over Ireland for over 18 years with an ever-growing popularity as clients praise her for her honesty & professionalism that leaves any bride-to-be knowing that their dream wedding dress will come to life under Edel’s watchful eye & attention to detail.

Viewing is strictly by appointment only T: +353(0)41 9872951 or book online www.edeltuitebridaldesign.com to view her full Bridal Collections.

Photograph by White Amber

Georgian Manor Photography

Situated only 30 minute s from Dublin, Bellinter House is renowned as the most unique wedding one of venues in Ireland.This stun ning 18th century Geo manor is set on the rgian banks of the River Boy ne and offers exclusive weddings of up to 206 use for guests.

Located in County Me ath, and with sweeping lawns, ancient trees and spots for you to exp secluded lore, Bellinter House displays a distinctive ambiance which cannot romantic be replicated anywhere else.

The setting and style of Bellinter House creates a wonderfully relaxed, warm and welcoming atm informal, osphere, which can onl y be appreciated fully by the house. visiting To arrange a viewing of Bellinter House, please contact our Wedding Co Barbara at 046 903090 ordinator, 0 or email: events@bell interhouse.com.

38 I IWD I Wedding Diary News

Award winning Irish Photogr apher who specializes in nationwide & overseas serv Byrne is celebrating 25 year ices Dermot s in the business! His pass ion for photography, coupled ability to visualize an image with his natural and a willingness to go that extra mile for all his clients You can’t help but admire is commendable. his innovative and creative approach and yet he is still his friendly manner and sens able to maintain e of fun that brings out that inner smile in all his Brides Dermot is one of the only & Grooms. photographers in Ireland to have been honoured membership to the Irish with a lifetime Professional Photographe rs’ Association (I.P.P.A.), which in itself is testimony of his great wor k & high standards.

And as a 25 year celebrat ory gift to all Irish Wedding Diary readers, Dermot wou a 10% discount to all who ld like to offer book him in 2019. So con tact Dermot today at his studio in Bray on 01-282 9560 / 087 2505 384 or Email: Dermot@dermotby rne.ie Web: www.dermot Making people smile byrnephoto.ie by going that extra mil e!

New

Ballroom

Annebrook House Hotel, located in the beautiful midlands county of Westmeath, have just announced the reopening of their newly refurbished ballroom in Spring 2019!

For further details visit www.annebrook.ie, or email our dedicated weddings manager, Ciara, on events@annebrook.ie.

Fiona Todhunter Bridals award winning bridal designer Relax and enjoy our spacious salon and fitting rooms. Where every bride is assured our undivided personal attention and the professional assistance of our design team.

Exquisite accessories and in-house alterations available to create a celebration in style.

www.fionatodhunter.com info@fionatodhunter.com Tel: 01-4526854 Unit 4, Greenhills Retail Park, Greenhills Rd, Tallaght, Dublin 24 Facebook: fiona todhunter bridals Dublin

Fash on

Compiled by Elaine Hession

Mistress Little

Debut

Frankie Lace Trim

Pencil Dress With Keyhole €60 at Little Mistress

Blazer Lilac

Debut Dress €160at Debenhams

Principles lilac blazer

Skinny €65 at Debenhams

Purple

Purple Hues

Stiletto Skinny Lilac Stiletto €16 at Pennys

Purple stretch skinny fit suit trousers €40 at River Island

Sequins VIP Sequin Dress €130 at Lipsy

42 I IWD Feature I Fashion

Clutch

Bronco London Brocco Clutch bag €80 at Dune

@SincerityBridal

#SincerityBride

|

sinceritybridal.com

Fash on Compiled by Elaine Hession

Dress

Leopard

Principles

Red

Debenhams Principles Dress €75

Sosander Red Leopard Print Fit & Flare Dress €75

Wine Lovers

Boutique Boutique dress €75 at M&Co

Choker Real

Choker Dress €70 at Lipsy

Heels

Bag Velvet

Burgundy Velvet Handbag at Miss Selfridges €38

Happy

HAPPY Heels €75 at Office

Skirt Pleat

Pleat Midi Skirt €45 at Lipsy

44 I IWD Feature I Fashion

MARIANS A TRADITION OF EXCELLENCE Bridge Street, Boyle, Co. Roscommon.

Phone: +353-(0)71-9662031

Web: www.marians.ie

Fash on Compiled by Elaine Hession

Satin Mini

Miss Selfridge Satin Mini Dress €55

Pink VIP

Lipsy VIP Pink Lace Dress €130

Prints Floral

Rachel Shenton for Richard Quinn at Debenhams €85

Pink s m o s s o Bl

Velvet Pink

F&F Pink Velvet Bag €16

Coat Pink

Dorothy Perkin Pink Crombie Coat €70

46 I IWD Feature I Fashion

Faith Have

Faith - Metallic ‘Chariot’ high stiletto heel wide fit pointed shoes € 37.50 at Debenhams

Lace

Blossom

Paper Dolls Blossom Lace Dress €80

Rathfarnham Village

e th S at RD N1 w, nd ho ta r S t S ea sa eY e u th Se e of id Br

Dublin Bridal House Dublin’s Elite Supplier of International Award Winning bridal & bridesmaid gowns by Stella York, Mori Lee, Badgley Mischka, Nicole Spose, Monica Loretti & Dessy

Dublin Bridal House, 11 Main Street Rathfarnham Village, Dublin 14 Phone: 01 699 3707 • Mobile: 087 697 6484 • sharon@dublinbridalhouse.ie

www.dublinbridalhouse.ie

Fash on

Velvet Drops Elegant Petal

Compiled by Elaine Hession

Oliver Bonas Valentina Curved Bar & Petal Drop Earring €25

Orange Inky Burnt

T.K.MAX Burnt Orange Ruffle Dress €30

Lost Ink Deconstructed Dress €62

Orange Crush

Glitter

Bronze

JD Williams Bronze Sadie Glitter Jeans €40

Island River Island Orange tes front dress €50

Wrap It’s a

Lipsy London Spot Frill Wrap Dress €65

48 I IWD Feature I Fashion

Heels Almond

Aurrora Almond €95 at Dune London

Print Leopard

New Look Leopard Print Gold Ring Chain Bag €22

Masque

Green Shoots

Gel

Of Spring With Beauty Editor

Elaine Hession

Spring into the new season with a fresh new beauty regime. It’s the perfect time to reassess your current skincare routine and switch things up. Start the new year by investing in some key greens that will revive your post winter skin on the run up to your big day.

Scents

IMAGE Skincare Ormedic Balancing Gel Masque is an ultra-gentle, organic gel masque specifically designed to soothe and hydrate unbalanced skin.

Enriched with organic aloe vera, green tea, and arnica montana, it instantly quenches the skin with hydration, nutrition, and super antioxidants. Ideal for every skin type and necessary for every bridal glow.

Image Ormedic Balancing Gel Masque €45.50.

Bag Beauty

Spring

Perfect for all of your green essentials Oliver Bonas cosmetic bag €20

Mugler Les Exceptions Mystic Aromatic is a divine, fresh spring fragrance of

sprouting leaves and blooming flowers as well as beautiful, fresh herbs. The composition of basil leaves, thyme, sage, and oregano is sure to settle the nerves on the big day thanks to their calming properties. The subtle smell of the mystic aromas will last beyond your expectations. A beautiful gift for a bride on her wedding day.

Thierry Mugler Les Exceptions Mystic Aromatic Eau De Parfum, 80

Shaping Silhouette

Reshape your silhouette and say yes to the dress with Yon-Ka Huile Silhouette. This lightweight oil tones, nourishes, softens and smooths the skin to perfection. Essential oils such as cedar, cypress and rosemary work in harmony with pink pepper oil, which is renowned for its fat-metabolising benefits to create the perfect sculpted silhouette.

Silhouette Yon-Ka Huile Silhouette, €39.00.

50 I IWD Beauty I Green Shoots

Faced Fresh

mls, €117.

Clean skin is happy skin! So kick your skin routine into shape with the new Nuxe Aquabella Micro-Exfoliating Purifying Gel. Perfect for lifting dirt and impurities from the surface of your skin without drying it out. The signature combination of white waterlily and naturalorigin hyaluronic acid found within the Micro-Exfoliating Purifying Gel gives skin a much-needed moisture boost, while the green lentil extract tightens pores and improves the quality of the skin’s texture.

Aquabella Micro-Exfoliating Purifying Gel €14.50.

Amsha

Bridal

Amsha Bridal

Ricehill, Crossdoney, Co. Cavan. Tel: 086-780 5957 Email: amshabridal@gmail.com WEB: www.amshabridal.ie

Green Shoots

Of Spring With Beauty Editor

Elaine Hession

Fingers Green

Control Pore

You may not be able to shrink your

pores, but you can make them look smaller thanks to Clarins’ instant pore control. The firming Vine Flower cells and mattifying organic strawberry tree fruit extracts visibly

A stunning shade of sparkling green that is

tighten and purify enlarged pores

guaranteed to make your nails stand out from

for skin that’s smooth, radiant,

the crowd. This long -wear polish delivers

shine-free and refined.

seven-day wear that’s ideal for hectic brides.

Clarins Pore Control - pore

CND™ VINYLUX™ Emerald Lights €11.95.

minimising serum 30 mls €50.

Toned Well

Tone up your skin with Aquabella Refining Essence Lotion. The super-hydrating tone will not only tone the skin but will also moisturise,

Green Apple

If your skin has a tendency towards dryness, the Académie 24H

smooth and tighten pores. It’s an essential

Hydraderm Serum will add a boost

addition to any bridal beauty bag.

of moisturising radiance to the skin.

Aquabella Refining Essence Lotion €17.

The concentrated apple formula helps visibly plump skin up with moisture and bring back elasticity, giving you that fresh, dewy look you want during the spring months.

Angel

Académie 24H Hydraderm Serum €55.

Green

Reveal a new completion with Green Angel Seaweed & Apricot Facial Scrub. The unique formula deep -leans your pores while gently removing dull, lifeless skin cells to reveal a smoother skin. This beautiful scrub is renowned for its rejuvenating benefits thanks to its seaweed extracts, vitamin rich apricot extract and natural exfoliants.

Green Angel Seaweed & Apricot Facial Scrub 50ml,€21.95.

52 I IWD Beauty I Green Shoots

60109846 PM Irish Wedding Diary 2017-V1.indd 1

16/02/2017 15:53

Beauty Within Bring out the

With Beauty Editor Elaine Hession

Scent Heaven

Lighter High

Choosing a wedding fragrance might seem like a minor task but choosing the right perfume has the power to call to mind your big day with just a single spritz, is essential. Wonder Bouquet represents a bouquet of white

Illuminate your best features with the special-edition Christmas Highlighter Palette from Clarins. A beautiful keepsake that will accentuate your cheekbones and create the illusion of beautiful skin. An essential bridal addition to the luxe bridal beauty bag. Christmas Highlighter Palette €37

flowers with top notes of orange blossom, lily of the valley and sambac jasmine. This new scent will enhance your special occasion and will create lasting memories of a wonderful wedding.

Mulgar Les Exceptions - Wonder Bouquet, 80mls €170

Glow Faux

When the sun isn’t shining outside, it’s time to liven up the skin with an instant bounce of colour. IMAGE Body Spa Face and Body Bronzer is a lightweight bronzing cream that glides on easily to give a natural and beautiful tan without the sun. It’s fabulously hydrating and feels great

Skin Sheer

A bridal favourite for flawless skin. Available in 12 stunning shades to naturally match all skin tones. Ideal for the main event in your calendar this year.

Clarins Skin Illusion SPF 15 €35

Pout Keep

on the skin.

A subtle hint of a tint that will intensely

Image Body Spa Face And Body

moisturise your pout. The Lip Comfort Oil is

Bronzer €35

enriched with essential oils to condition and smooth out dry lips. Apply alone or over lipstick for a lightly coloured and naturally shiny lip.

Clarins Christmas Lip Comfort Oil ‘Red Berry Glam’ €21

54 I IWD Beauty I Beauty Within

Beauty Within Bring out the

With Beauty Editor Elaine Hession

Fatigue Banish

The Radiance Aqua Balm banishes signs of fatigue and brightens the skin. Aqua Balm is rich in apricot extract that delivers an immediate burst of radiance. It also acts as a primer to even out skin tone. A great addition to the bridal beauty regime on the run-up to your big day. Best of all, it smells divine!

Académie Radiance Aqua Balm €36

Fire Wild

Celebrate the engagement by showing off your

diamond with a red statement nail polish to make

that diamond pop. Wildfire is a classic scarlet which is not too dark, not too bright with a ton of shine and is chip-free thanks to its seven-day wear.

Rose Gold CND™ VINYLUX™ Wildfire €11.95

Never lose you ID. Next Cosmetics Bag €18.50

Mist Skin

Quench your skin with Ella & Jo Hydrating Skin

Mist. Professional makeup artists and bridal experts Charlene Flanagan and Niamh Ryan, founders of Ella & Joe have created a beautiful Hyaluronic Skin Mist to compliment your bridal routine. The unique blend of nourishing ingredients such as chamomile, cucumber, witch hazel, aloe vera, and green tea with hyaluronic acid is super-hydrating. Spritz it on after cleansing to lock in moisture, and then again after applying makeup to set your foundation.

Love how the hydrating mist jumpstarts the skin.

Available www.ellaandjo.com Ella & Joe 3in1 Hyaluronic Skin Mist €20

Brows Bil ion Dollar

Create the perfect arch with

Billion Dollar Brows brow kit.

The compact kit contains a foolproof, mini brow brush with a spoolie brush on the opposite end for blending products, a mini smudge brush and a tweezer. All wrapped up in a compact

The perfect rose gold ensemble for a multitude of bridal looks. The set includes a Rose Gold Eyeshadow Palette, a Baked Highlighter and Blush Rose Gold, a beautifully Bare, Smooth Matte Eyeshadow Blushing Rose, and a Matte Lip Colour Tea Rose. A lovely gift for your bridesmaids or for the bride herself.

E.L.F. Rose Gold Look Set €26

56 I IWD Beauty I Beauty Within

tin that includes an essential mirror inside for touch-ups on the move.

BDB Brows On The Go Tool Kit €34.99

Clonfolic Irish Wedding Diary A4 FA.pdf

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05/07/2016

14:59

Update

Wellness that Works WW is embarking on a new and exciting journey and we want you to be part of it, explains president and CEO Mindy Grossman

W

hen Jean Nidetch set out to lose weight in 1961, she chose a science-based eating program from the New York City Department of Health. But she knew that a programme alone was not enough for her. And, thinking it may not be enough for others, she gathered a group of friends to form a community of allies.

Together, they didn’t just lose the weight – they transformed their lives in deep and extraordinary ways. More than that, they were inspired to help others do the same.

A lot has changed since the 1960s.

Thanks to the power of technology, we are arguably more connected now than ever, yet we crave more meaningful connections. We are spoiled for options when it comes to food, but we are overwhelmed by how to make the healthiest choices for ourselves and our families. We seem to have unending ways to get active – from boxing classes and fun runs to yoga retreats but we struggle to make the time and find the energy.

It’s the wellness paradox: we truly want to get healthy, and yet

Best,

Mindy Grossman President & CEO mindy@weightwatchers.com

6 WW DECEMBER/JANUARY 2019

58 I IWD Feature I Health & Wellbeing

we – as a society, as a world – are getting unhealthier. That’s exactly the problem that we want to help solve. And so, we have embarked on an exciting journey from being the global leader in weight management to becoming the world’s partner in wellness.

Earlier this year, we declared our purpose: we inspire healthy habits for real life. For people, families, communities, the world – for everyone. We will always have the best weight-loss programme on the planet, but now we’re putting our decades of experience in behaviour-change science to work for an even greater mission.

We aim to be the company that democratises wellness for all.

To play a different role in people’s lives, we need to change the conversation. We’re doing a lot of things differently, but we’re also saying a lot of things differently. If you go to what used to be called a Meeting, you’ll find it’s now called a Workshop and held in a Studio. We are moving from Weight Watchers to WW

– rooted in the familiar but reimagined to welcome everyone who seeks to be healthier, not just manage their weight. To reinforce that we have always delivered the world’s most effective programmes – and will continue to – we are also introducing a new tagline that you will begin to see: Wellness that Works.

It’s a promise that no matter what your goal is – to lose weight, eat healthier, move more, develop a more positive mindset, or all of the above – we will bring you science-based programmes, tools, and experiences that work and fit into your life.

You will begin to see WW show up in new ways and new places.

We hope that it feels surprising yet familiar. Because while we know that we can change the lives of so many more people, we are deeply proud of the millions we have impacted over the past 57 years.

We feel honoured to carry on the legacy of Jean Nidetch and all the members of our community – past, present, and future.

Health & Wellbeing I IWD Feature I 59

2019

Bridal

Collection

Stella York

Essense of Australia Luna Novias

60 I IWD Feature I Wedding Dresses

2019

Bridal

Collection

EddyK

Aire Barcelona Kenneth Winston

62 I IWD Feature I Wedding Dresses

Memories you’ll savour for a lifetime‌

N

estled on 1,000 acres of undulating Irish countryside, dotted with ancient woodland and glittering lakes, Castle Leslie Estate is an exquisite and mystical setting for your special wedding celebration.

In the hands of its founding family since the mid 17th Century,

Set in a secluded and tranquil

Castle Leslie Estate is steeped in history and has been the

location in Glaslough village, Castle

venue for countless parties and celebrations through the

Leslie Estate is only 80 minutes from

centuries. It is an incredibly intimate and romantic venue

Dublin and 60 minutes from Belfast.

that comes alive when filled with the laughter and joy of

Its uniqueness, character and charm

family and friends.

can only be felt, not described.

At Castle Leslie Estate our priority is to turn your dream into a reality. Whether you are planning an intimate celebration for two or a grand celebration for 260, we have the perfect setting for you. With our reputation for fabulous food and discreet personal attention, the Estate also boasts a variety

Therefore we invite you to come and experience it for yourself and we look forward to welcoming you to the Estate so you can sample our renowned hospitality.

of accommodation to suit all preferences. We look after

To arrange a private viewing, call us

every detail to make your wedding celebration a day you will

now on +353 (0)47 88100 or email:

always remember.

events@castleleslie.com

Castle Leslie Estate, Glaslough, Monaghan www.castleleslie.com

2019

Bridal

Collection

Paloma Blanca Sincerity

Mikaella

64 I IWD Feature I Wedding Dresses

Wicklow’s Wicklow’s BrookLodge Village BrookLodge & & Macreddin Macreddin Village

The Perfect Venue

Macreddin Village is home home to BrookHall BrookHall -- aa Dedicated Dedicated Wedding Wedding Venue & Boasts Boasts aa Quaint Quaint Chapel Chapel on on the Grounds for an Idyllic Ceremony Ceremony

T: 0402 36444 | E: weddings@brooklodge.com | W: www.brooklodge.com

2019

Bridal

Collection

Phoenix Gowns

Tamem Michael

Justin Alexander Eternity

66 I IWD Feature I Wedding Dresses

BESPOKE WEDDINGS IN A TRULY MAGICAL, EXCLUSIVE WEDDING VENUE. The Millhouse is a romantic haven in a wonderful garden setting.

At dusk when the river has a golden glow and the Orchard lanterns and fairy lights illuminate our garden pathways The Millhouse has a magical atmosphere, one that you and your guests will remember forever.

Viewings by appointment only ww w . t h e m i l l h o u s e . i e The Millhouse, The Old Mill, Slane, Co. Meath Tel: 041 9820878 Email: information@themillhouse.ie

9 St. Stephen’s Green, Dublin 2.

Consultations welcome by appointment - please contact: Helen Daly – Sales & Marketing Manager T: (0)1 673 0207 E: helen@sghc.ie

2019

Bridal

Collection

Victoria Kay Allure Bridals Sophia Tolli Martin Thornburg

by Mon Cheri

68 I IWD Feature I Wedding Dresses

TIMELESS. MAGNIFICENT. UNFORGETTABLE. The K Club, Straffan, Co. Kildare. + 353 1 601 7200 | weddings@kclub.ie | www.kclub.ie

The K Club Irish Wedding Diary 210 x 297.indd 1

23/11/2018 11:45

Bowls Nesting

G ifts Made W it h Love ^

Beech Nesting Bowls Set €230.

Eight Leadbetter Woodturner at www.madeinkilkenny.ie

Firepit Olympus

Dawn

back to the great fire of the Athenas torch, also known as the Olympic Flame.

A New

www.covethouse.eu

Stool

Chop

Anna Jacobs - Breaking Dawn in

Velvet

For the

orange lamp on Vivid red - medium £195 at The Wedding Shop www.weddingshop.ie

Accent

the Olympus Firepit a sight to seen, taking us

Velvet

Delilah Accent Chair Green Velvet

Delilah is an accent chair with an elegant twist. Upholstered in luxurious deep-pile velvet to complement the retro design.. www.made.com

Beautiful handmade chopping board or bread board in hand selected wood from British grown trees. Complete with genuine leather handle for ease of use and storage. www.madebyhandonline.com

Smart Get

Beautifully pleated deep rosebud red velvet upholstery covers this perfectly proportioned stool. £175 www.frenchbedroomcompany.co.uk

Nver lose your keys

again with Keysmart €21 at Designist

Sticks

Chop

High quality japanese

chopsticks set made of ebony by Yumekobo €69.99 at oryoki.de

70 I IWD Feature I Wedding Gifts

Blender Bullet

Nutribullet Balance Smart Food Blender

€179 at Harvey Norman

120 acres of glorious parkland that overlooks the river Blackwater, with wonderfully romantic walled garden and beautiful woodlands, The Johnstown Estate is an idyllic luxury wedding destination located just 35 minutes from Dublin. From the magical setting of our wedding gardens, to the magnificent opulence of The Grand Ballroom, or the intimacy of our elegant wedding suites with 17th century architecture, our dedicated wedding team is on hand to create the celebration of your dreams.

Enfield, Co. Meath. Tel: +353 (0)46 954 0000 Email: info@thejohnstownestate.com www.thejohnstownestate.com

3780 - Johnstown IWD wed advert.indd 1

21/11/2018 07:07

P late

G ifts Made W it h Love ^

Blue

Emma Bridgewater, dinner

Prep

plate at The Wedding Shop

£19.95 www.weddingshop.ie

Mini

Soap Brass Snail

Top

The Cuisinart Mini Prep Pro is an indispensable kitchen companion, making light work of everyday tasks from mixing dips and dressings to chopping

KUMI MIRROR pays tribute

onions and pureeing sauces.

to its allure through its glossy

£50 www.cuisinart.co.uk

hammered aged brass. This decorative wall mirror is a treasure coveted by many.

Time Tea

at www.maisonvalentina.net This snail-shaped soap dispenser is a perfect addition to any bathroom,

Ceramic Fired

Stackable cups in durable porcelain with perfect interlocking saucer for greater stability and balance. €36 at Viceversa

Speaker €179 at Harvey Norman

soap. www.coolgift.com

Time Tea

Original Japanese Tetsubin made of cast iron. Ideal for the

Moment Japanese tea ceremony €359 at oryoki.de

Golden

Bluetooth

JBL Charge 3 Bluetooth speaker

toilet or kitchen! Press its little shell and its cute face dispenses a drop of

Deimos Saggar Fired Ceramic Vessel €180 by Claire Mollow Ceramics at Made in Kilkenny

This 24-Karat Gold-Plated Vera Kettle is an exclusive treatment that makes the beautiful

72 I IWD Feature I Wedding Gifts

Vera Kettle unique and splendid, a special edition conceived for people who love standing out in every detail. Luxxdesign.com

weddingshop.ie

J10459 - TWS 2018 campaign - Love is all you need - PRODUCT AD 1 - 210x297mm.indd 1

04/09/2018 10:01:43

Armchair e d a M s t if G W it h Love ^ Metal

Sport Smart

Garmin ‘Vivomove HR’ Sport Smartwatch €205 at Harvey Norman

Mix

In the

Soiree Wine

This Boston Armchair comes with triple the appeal, courtesy of a coloured, padded seat and back plus a gleaming metal frame. €79 at www.cultfurniture.com

Speaker Waterproof

Soiree Wine Aerator €28.50 at Designist

Spoons Three

Three Spoons in Ash, Oak and Beech €20.00 each by Keoghan Leadbetter Woodturner at Made in Kilkenny

Table

Walnut

Fenella Smith, Pug mixing bowl at The Wedding Shop £40 www.weddingshop.ie

With this waterproof, bluetooth, easyto-attach speaker you can listen to your favourite music while taking a shower. £24.95 www.coolgift.com

Machine Coffee

Sage Nespresso Creatista Coffee Machine €499 at Harvey Norman

74 I IWD Feature I Wedding Gifts

Ligne Roset Interstice Coffee And Side Table www.ligne-roset.com

Screen Silver

Watch your wedding video back in 4K Impress the entire family this year, with either of Sony’s latest TV triumphs, the magnificent Sony BRAVIA OLED AF9 €3,549 (55” screen) €4,699 (65” screen) From Sony

Say I Do

Intimate, Special and Different

“One of Ireland’s top five sexiest hotels” UK Observer

Speak to a member of our team about our impressive Wedding Packages

Ireland’s Top Food & Wine Destination

Newcastle West, Co. Limerick 069 25300 sayido@longcourthousehotel.ie

IRELAND’S HOTEL OF THE YEAR 2018 The Twelve Hotel, Bearna VIllage, Galway, Ireland tel: +353 91 597000 E: sales@thetwelvehotel.ie

www.thetwelvehotel.ie

Winner Wedding Venue Newcomer 2018

The Twelve Hotel Autumn 2013.indd 1

22/05/2013 13:23

Radio

Retro

G ifts Made W it h Love ^

Tipple Little

Velvet Blue

Chair Primrose

Roberts Revival Radio €129 at Harvey Norman

Seater Two

Whiskey Glass and Drink Stone Gift Set €17 at Designist

Bath Buauble

Dylan 2 Seater Sofa, Retro Orange Combining classic mid-century style with up-to-date colour options and detailing. Set against a solid wood frame and sturdy wood legs. www.made.com

The Primrose dining chair crafted from solid oak and royal blue velvet fabric gives a slick approach to modern dining chairs. €99 www.cultfurniture.com

Newton bathtub is a piece of international desire that distinguishes itself from all the other designs by its futuristic forms.

Sound

From www.bocadolobo.com

True

Bird Blue

Carafe Tall

Large Garden Trading Meze Wine Carafe. €18 at www.gardentrading.co.uk

Blue Ceramic Bird form €120.

Caroline Dolan Ceramics at www.moadeinkilkenny.ie

Snapper Happy

Marshall, portable bluetooth speaker at The Wedding Shop £239 www.weddingshop.ie

76 I IWD Feature I Wedding Gifts

Sony Alpha a6300 Mirrorless 16-50mm Lens Kit

€1,349 at Harvey Norman

Edge

On The

G ifts Made W it h Love ^ So Good

Edge Alarm Clock €45 at Designist

Stool

Sofa

KOI

Ellie 3-Seater Sofa €999 at Harvey Norman

Mirror

The KOI upholstered stooI which fits in any modern home decor. www.maisonvalentina.net

Light

Gold

Astro’s new Lago wall light blurs the boundaries between bathroom and bedroom without a hint of compromise, thanks to modern yet timeless lines which enhance any space. www.astrolighting.co.uk

Beach Palm

Palm Beach lamp by Rosaana Lonsdale at The Wedding Shop £365 www.weddingshop.ie

Silver Sterling

Six Serling Silver ‘Millennium’ Hallmarked Spoons in Leather Pouch €1500 from Jane Huston Designs at Made in Kilkenny

78 I IWD Feature I Wedding Gifts

Astro

Armchair Ellen

The Perfectly Pretty Gold Mirror is perfectly proportioned and perfectly presented! £145 www.frenchbedroomcompany.co.uk

Speaker Compact

The compact speaker, with water-resistant design, is ideal for anyone who wants to take festive tunes with them wherever they go. With EXTRA BASS sound and available in a range of bold colours including red, yellow, green and blue as well as white and black, the speaker is a fun and affordable gift for any music lover. €41 from Sony

Ellen is a sophisticated armchair, featuring a modern tub design. Built on top of a polished brass base, this accent chair is upholstered with a green lustruous velvet and its curvilinear open back contrasts with a rectangular shape on the front www.essentialhome.eu

Irish Wedding DIary Spring Ad.pdf

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26/11/2018

15:08

Love, Laughter & Happily Ever After Stunning Salthill Seafront Location Bespoke Wedding Packages Available Taking bookings for 2020 & 2021 Engage with Hazel our Wedding Coordinator to Book your Dream Day

ENQUIRIES

091 522 711 weddings@salthillhotel.com www.salthillhotel.com

Sound

G ifts Made W it h Love ^ Scallops Mug

Punchy

Take the party with you with the SRS-XB501G EXTRA

BASS wireless speaker with a truly punchy sound.

Blue

€349 from Sony

Love

Cheesy Love

Stainless steel cheese knife with a

heart finial; the perfect way to cut and serve any type of cheese. £12.95: Annabel James Blue Scalloped Bowl - €25 by Rosemarie Durr Pottery from Made in Kilkenny.

Stool Metal

Piper bar stool offers a

modern feel to the kitchen

€119 at www.cultfurniture.com

Emma Bridgewater, mug at The Wedding Shop £19.95 www.weddingshop.ie

Seater Three

Gear Good

Water

Cool

Eau Good Water Bottle €18 at Designist

80 I IWD Feature I Wedding Gifts

Ballyroe 3 Seater Sofa Smoke €949 at Michael Murphy Home Furnishing

Samsung ‘Gear Fit2 Pro’ Fitness Tracker €209 at Harvey Norman

C

M

Y

CM

MY

CY

CMY

K

A DAY UNLIKE ANY OTHER SHOULD HAPPEN AT A PLACE UNLIKE ANY OTHER 4SEASONSHOTELCARLINGFORD.IE

EVENTS@FSHC.IE

+353 (0)42 93 73530

G ifts Made W it h Love ^ Corner In the

Alex Corner Sofa €1,399 at Michael Murphy Home

Attack

Furnishing

Art

Beautiful original hand-painted abstract painting available on Abstract House.

Fishy

£350 at abstracthouse.com.

Looks

Cuddler

Velvet

Primrose: Velvet Cuddler Sofa €1,199 at DFS

Armchair Aviator

This Moda CD3 Armchair with faux leather lining has a sleek silhouette, inspired by

the iconic designs of Charles & Ray Eames and fresh contemporary furniture from Scandinavia. €159 at www.cultfurniture.com

Evenings Sunny

Jonah Outdoor 3 seater Rattan

Take the comfort outdoors with our favourite Jonah collection, now available as a weather-proof outdoor sofa. www.made.com

Emma Bridgewater enamel fish pie dish at The Wedding Shop £39 www.weddingshop.ie

Good Sounds

The award winning over-ear WH-1000XM3

headphones that feature a newly developed HD Noise Cancelling Processor QN1, which offers exceptional performance and can

cancel out background sound such as street noise and human voices. €389 from Sony

82 I IWD Feature I Wedding Gifts

Mirror Diamond

this five-sided polygon mirror is the ultimate combination of geometry and design. www.essentialhome.eu

Annebrook A4 wedding advert selected:Layout 1

23/11/2018

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Page 1

Anne br ook Hou se Hot el Newly refurbished ballroom coming in Spring 2019!

A unique wedding venue in the heart of the Midlands Situated in the heart of Mullingar, the award-winning Annebrook House Hotel presents a spectacular fusion of 17th heritage coupled with ultimate modern styling. This beautiful Georgian Manor House with its private entrance and exclusive use takes pride of place on the grounds of our four star hotel. Whether you are considering an intimate wedding or a grand affair, our flexible dining and drinking spaces allow you to custom your perfect wedding your way.

“ �

All I can say is wow!

Tanya and Ronan, November 2017

MULLINGAR, CO. WESTMEATH 044 93 53300 | events@annebrook.ie | www.annebrook.ie

Marian Gale Quality, Service and Exclusivity

With a background in dress design and tailoring from the Grafton Academy, Marian Gale first opened the doors of her boutique in 1980 and has never looked back since. Starting out in Clontarf, Marian made the move to Donnybrook in 1984 where the boutique currently resides, and has remained as a renowned luxury shopping destination for the past 36+ years.

Marian has garnered this reputation, along with

Marian Gale stocks a wide range of wedding

amassing a large, loyal following of customers,

dresses to suit every bride. From high necks

by adhering to a simple ethos from the very

to low backs, her styles are both modern and

beginning of her career: to provide high

feminine with fabrics such as traditional lace

standards of service, quality and exclusivity.

and silk for elegant simplicity.

Marian’s vision has always been to offer a beautifully curated collection of unique and

Over the past few months she has noticed a

luxury garments, supplying special clothes for

change in bride styles. Before, a lot of brides

special occasions, which can be found nowhere

were looking for a simpler style but now

else in Ireland.

there is a huge demand for bigger, more traditional dresses, especially with a veil.

The Donnybrook store specialises in occasion wear. Mothers of the brides and grooms come

Marian Gale sells from stock in sizes 8–16

from all over the country to get a really unique

as well as made-to-order styles. She also

outfit for their sons’ or daughters’ special day.

has a full range of bridal accessories. An

All of her outfits are exclusive to Marian Gale

appointment is recommended to view the

and a list is kept of what outfits are going to

collection.

each wedding, so no two outfits will turn up on the day! (sizes stocked 8–20).

As well as providing all outfits for a wedding or a special occasion

Bridesmaid shopping can be daunting

Marian Gale also has a full range

for brides, especially if there is a

of accessories including hats

large number of them and they

and fascinators, handbags and

are all different sizes. At Marian

jewellery. Bridal veils and

Gale there is a wide selection to

headpieces are also

choose from. Different styles are

available.

available in different colours and all alterations are done in store. So if one girls needs straps and another needs three inches off the bottom, it’s not a problem. Flower girl dresses are also available in a number of styles and there is also an option to add a sash in the matching colour of the bridesmaids.

84 I IWD Profile I Marian Gale

www.mariangale.ie

Handmade Double Wedding Ring Specialists In our full instore workshop, each ring is handmade to the highest quality and standards to compliment, match and support your engagement ring.

A diamond band at either side of your engagement ring will enhance and frame your ring, creating a stunning result and take it from ordinary to extra ordinary!

Prices from... â‚Ź1300.

Contact us for an appointment to design the ring of your dreams chris@cmjewellers.com

Established in 1989 Inside SuperValu | Lorcan Avenue | Santry | Dublin 9 For Appointments T: 01 8426197 | E: chris@cmjewellers.com | www.cmjewellers.com

Home to Beautiful Weddings & Treasured Moments

Our

Winter All-Inclusive package

€9999

for 120

Guests

(T&C’s apply)

Includes:

Reception Music, Florist, Cake, Band & DJ, Photographer & Men’s Suits

CASTLE DARGAN ESTATE, BALLYGAWLEY, CO.SLIGO

0318_CD_AD_195X138_PRINT3.indd 1

06/12/2018 15:38

Jennies Candles Jennies Candles offer you a full range of handmade personalised wedding candles.

Rebecca Fox Handcrafted individually Dublin basedand make up artist decorated, will traveleach to you for trial and candle is unique. on the big day.

For more information please visit our website or email us. www.jenniescandles.com • www.jenniesinvitations.com Tel: (071) 9141055 • Mobile: (087) 634 0406

We’ll take it from here…

Stunning surroundings, fabulous food, luxurious bedrooms and a unique location makes Sheen Falls Lodge a setting with a difference to celebrate your wedding day.

Wedding Packages from €120 €115 per person Includes: • Prosecco & ½ pint Guinness reception • Tea, Coffee & Scones on arrival • 5 course meal with wine • Evening food • Complimentary Sheen Suite on the night of the wedding • Resident Pianist for the arrival reception • 2 complimentary rooms for the wedding night for guests of your choice • Floral arrangements and candelabras

SHEENFALLSLODGE.IE SHEEN FALLS LODGE, KENMARE, CO. KERRY, IRELAND V93 HR27 WEDDINGS@SHEENFALLSLODGE.IE | + 353 (0)64 6641600

New from Sorella Vita: Modern Styles for Timeless Beauty

S

ay hello to the future of bridesmaid fashion! Sorella Vita is all about bringing a modern touch to timeless designs, for gowns that are hot on the runway (and even hotter on your bridal party)! This season, Sorella Vita really brings the heat with unexpected mixed materials, innovative colour offerings and sleek silhouettes that are as comfortable as they are fashionable. Whether you want mix-and-match, totally streamlined or something in between … there’s a selection of gowns to suit every modern style!

Expect the Unexpected …

Mixing up Minimalism.

Looking for a more minimalist look? These stunning mixed-material gowns are perfect for those with simple tastes, but who love an unexpected detail. Try a luxurious satin bodice over a breezy chiffon skirt for a more laid-back elegance – or choose formal on the top with sleek Mikado, and a party in the back (and on the skirt) with sassy chiffon!

Breathtaking Backs Of course, nothing says ‘modern’ like adding an interesting back detail to the mix … and these mixed-material gowns deliver! For an exciting spin, these back straps can be tied three different ways – giving brides and their ‘maids even more ways to personalise their party.

88 I IWD Feature I Bridesmaids’ Dresses

Effortless Elegance The stunning back details didn’t stop there. With these gowns, you’ll want to rock them again and again! Because comfort never goes out of style, Sorella Vita brings you timeless, formal-inspired silhouettes (with totally on-trend elements) that you’ll never want to take off. Effortless and functional, these easy-to-wear gowns will have the ‘maids feeling as great as they look from the reception to the dance floor.

One Dress: Two Looks!

Looking for the best of both worlds? No problem!

Simple and totally versatile, this strapless chiffon gown with flutter overlay can adapt to whatever venue suits your fancy. Wear it in Blush for a more relaxed garden affair, or try it in Navy for an elevated city ceremony.

or a Ready f er? makeov modern Vita Sorella Find a r you at a e n t s i m stock avita.co l l e r o s . www

Mixed… Matched…

Modern!

As the mix-and-match trend continues to thrive, Sorella Vita has gone above and beyond to answer the call of the modern bridesmaid. Whether you decide to change up each colour, slightly shift shades for an ombre effect or simply switch out a neckline … even the subtlest variations between gowns can make a noteworthy style statement. With Sorella Vita, the possibilities are endless when it comes to choosing from these fresh colour combinations and flattering silhouettes—in fabrics so comfortable, you can party from dawn ‘til dusk (and beyond).

Bridesmaids’ Dresses I IWD Feature I 89

Winter Bridal Photoshoot in Clanard Court Hotel Photography by Thomas Sunderland

Location: Clanard Court Hotel The Clanard Court Hotel is an award-winning four star wedding hotel and one of Kildare’s leading wedding venues set amid landscaped gardens that provides the perfect scenic setting to make your day truly unforgettable.

Their ‘one Wedding per day’ policy, dedicated Wedding Coordinator, attention to detail, superb food, stunning décor and excellent service mean that your special day will be everything you dreamed….and more. As a family run hotel, they pride themselves on offering each couple personalised attention to ensure every aspect of their special day captures the essence of their union. No stone will be left unturned and their wedding coordinator will ensure that your wedding leaves an everlasting memory for you and your guests.

Clanard Court Hotel, Athy, Co Kildare.

Tel: 059 8640666. www.clanardcourt.ie

Photography by: Thomas Sunderland 22 Castle Street Carlow Web: www.thomassunderland.ie Phone: +353 (0)59 9142278

Hair & Makeup by: The Hair and Beauty Chalet 085 742 7141 or 059 915 8795 www.thehairandbeautychalet.ie

Elegance Wedding Stationery Old Dublin Road, Athy, Co. Kildare T: 059 8633217 E: info@elegance.ie www.elegance.ie

Dress by Aideen Cross Designs Main St,Rathangan,Co Kildare Tel:086-8325694 Email;aideen.cross@gmail.com www.aideencrossdesigns.com

90 I IWD Bridal I Clanard Court Hotel

Clanard Court Hotel I IWD Bridal I 91

Dress by Aideen Cross Designs 92 I IWD Bridal I Clanard Court Hotel

Main St,Rathangan,Co Kildare Tel:086-8325694 Email;aideen.cross@gmail.com www.aideencrossdesigns.com

Formal Wear by Protocol For Men Dublin Dawson Street 01 6772777 | Swords 01 8107453 Web: protocolmenswear.com

Clanard Court Hotel I IWD Bridal I 93

94 I IWD Bridal I Clanard Court Hotel

Dress by Aideen Cross Designs Main St,Rathangan,Co Kildare Tel:086-8325694 Email;aideen.cross@gmail.com www.aideencrossdesigns.com

Clanard Court Hotel I IWD Bridal I 95

Dress by Aideen Cross Designs Main St,Rathangan,Co Kildare Tel:086-8325694 Email;aideen.cross@gmail.com www.aideencrossdesigns.com

96 I IWD Bridal I Clanard Court Hotel

Formal Wear by Protocol For Men Dublin Dawson Street 01 6772777 | Swords 01 8107453 Web: protocolmenswear.com

Clanard Court Hotel I IWD Bridal I 97

Dress by Atelier Barbara Kosznik 86 Lower George’s Street, Dun Laoghaire.

Tel: 01-280 6277 Web: www.kosznik.com

98 I IWD Bridal I Clanard Court Hotel

Formal Wear by Protocol For Men Dublin Dawson Street 01 6772777 | Swords 01 8107453 Web: protocolmenswear.com

Dress by Atelier Barbara Kosznik 86 Lower George’s Street, Dun Laoghaire.

Tel: 01-280 6277 Web: www.kosznik.com

Clanard Court Hotel I IWD Bridal I 99

Formal Wear by Protocol For Men Dublin 100 I IWD Bridal I Clanard Court Hotel

Dawson Street 01 6772777 | Swords 01 8107453 Web: protocolmenswear.com

Dress by Atelier Barbara Kosznik 86 Lower George’s Street, Dun Laoghaire.

Tel: 01-280 6277 Web: www.kosznik.com

Clanard Court Hotel I IWD Bridal I 101

Dress by Atelier Barbara Kosznik 86 Lower George’s Street, Dun Laoghaire.

Tel: 01-280 6277 Web: www.kosznik.com

102 I IWD Bridal I Clanard Court Hotel

Formal Wear by Protocol For Men Dublin Dawson Street 01 6772777 | Swords 01 8107453 Web: protocolmenswear.com

Clanard Court Hotel I IWD Bridal I 103

Winter Wedding Showcase

Wedding Open Evenings

Summer Wedding Showcase

With Wedding Suppliers, Sunday 3rd February 2019 2pm-5pm

Thursday 17th January Wednesday 13th February Wednesday 13th March 5-8pm

With Wedding Suppliers, Sunday 16th June 2019 2pm-5pm

HHHH Dublin Road, Athy, Co.Kildare 059 8640666 I sales@clanardcourt.ie

www.clanardcourt.ie

Our 2020 All Inclusive Wedding â‚Ź8,500

Wedding Celebrant Bespoke wedding ceremonies Created with you.

Created for you.

Wedding ceremonies & Vow renewals www.conorclear.com conorclear@gmail.com conorclearcelebrant

‘Til Debt Do Us Part Claudia Gocoul shares the secret to starting married life with full hearts, and pockets

Jennifer Lopez might have sung My Love Don’t Cost a Thing but let’s face it, getting hitched is an expensive activity. The average Irish couple spends a whopping €21,000 on getting wed. It’s a little less than Meghan and Harry’s €27 million fairy-tale nuptials, but it’s no small chunk of change. If you don’t want to start your life as Mr and Mrs with full hearts and empty pockets, read on for our top tips on creating your dream day for less.

Set up a wedding website for your Save the

Save (on) the Date

Guest Who?

Fortune Favours

Believe it or not, venues are more expensive

It’s often easier said than done, especially when

Fortune may favour the bold, but favours

at certain times of the year and even on

you have family and friends weighing in, but

will cost you a fortune. Do you really need

certain days. If you’re flexible with when you

the key to cutting costs is to be ruthless when

them anyway? Think about it: have you ever

want to set the date, there are bargains to

it comes to compiling the guest list. Food and

attended a wedding and thought, ‘Do you know

be had. Off-peak months include November,

drink will make up a massive portion of your

what’s really beautiful? The wedding favours’.

early December, January and February, whilst

bill, so naturally, cutting guests will cut down

We think not. Wedding favours are the one

midweek is cheaper than the weekend. Think

on costs. Invite your core group of family and

thing you can guarantee will be left at the

about it: a little compromise on dates could

friends to the dinner and save the workmates,

end of the night. Even hand-made options are

mean you tie the knot in your dream venue

second cousins and plus ones for the afters.

time-consuming and costly. Imagine going to

and have a healthy sum left over for the

Why not make like Pippa Middleton and impose

the hassle (and expense) of hand-tying 100

honeymoon.

a ‘no ring, no bring’ rule - if it’s good enough

organza bags of sugared almonds just to see

for Pips…

them abandoned and strewn around the room

Date and opt for an e-vite company such as Paperless Post for the invites themselves. You can still design the invite yourself and the bonus is that guests can RSVP with the click of a button, saving you all the effort of following up.

as soon as the lights go up. If you really want to

You’re Invited When you’ve finally compiled that compressed

a donation to your favourite charity, with a note

guest list, don’t feel obliged to post out your

telling guests you’ve donated on their behalf.

invites. Not only is it bad for your bank balance, it’s also bad for the environment. The cost of invites adds up fast, between calligraphy, printing costs and postage. They’re also a logistical nightmare – we’re willing to bet you don’t keep a Rolodex of addresses, do you?

106 I IWD Feature I Wedding Budgets

have something on each table, swap favours for

SOS Don’t be afraid to accept help. You’ll be bombarded with offers from friends and family – just say ‘yes’. You may have a friend that is great at calligraphy, an aunt that bakes a mean wedding cake, or a colleague who took a florist

Be sure to liaise with your florist to ensure your chosen flowers are in season course last summer. When people say they want to help, they mean it; let your nearest and dearest get involved. You’ll reduce costs and they’ll get a sense of pride from providing

will have to be imported, making them a lot

of your relationship, with a buffet filled with

more expensive. Sit down with your florist and

foods you’ve enjoyed on your travels? Don’t be

talk about your ideal bouquet versus what is

afraid to try something a little different – it’s

available and in season, and more often than

your big day after all.

not, they will come up with similar alternatives that you’ll be happy to carry up the aisle. And catering, always opt for local, seasonal produce.

Not only will it be cheaper, and fresher, but you’ll be supporting local businesses. The good karma can’t hurt, right?

Grubs Up

Rent Due

Meat and two veg may be the norm, but it’s

Overwhelmed by the sheer

not the only option. Why not throw caution to

cost of having a bridal

the wind and opt for something much more

party? We hear you

relaxed?

–

something for your big day.

bridal

party

There’s no written rule saying that you have to foot

work harder by transitioning it through

the bill for everyone but it is often expected.

different stages of your day. With a

Why not opt for rental dresses and suits instead

little careful planning and forward

of splurging on outfits that will more than likely

thinking, your ceremony flowers can

only be worn once? There are an abundance

become your centrepieces and can

of dress-rental options popping up in Ireland,

even be used again for the day after.

from the high end such as The Designer Rooms

Flowers are such a massive cost, it’s

to more affordable options such as Runaway

wasteful not to make the most of them.

Bride and Cari’s Closet.

Florals, for Spring?

Groundbreaking…

Squad Goals If you’re really struggling with the cost of your

Whilst we’re talking flowers, be sure to liaise

bridal party, make the guest list and simply cut

with your florist to ensure your chosen flowers

you. However, flowers that are out of season

hair,

can add up, quickly.

makes all the difference. Make your decor

a certain bloom, a florist can often source it for

outfits,

the

Let’s face it, decor costs a bomb – and yet it

year round, and if you have your heart set on

between

accessories,

make-up and gifts,

Reduce, Reuse, Recycle

are in season. Many flowers are available all

Even hand-made options are timeconsuming and costly

whilst we’re talking seasonal, when it comes to

it down. Remember, your friends and family are There are so many options out there, from

there to celebrate your love and will be there at

summer BBQs to hog roasts or funky food

the drop of a hat to lend a hand anyway – they

trucks. Why not bring your guests on a journey

don’t need a title to do so.

Wedding Budgets I IWD Feature I 107

Groom’s

Room Compiled by Peter Cole

Classic

A true

Linen LA Classic Pink Shirt €59 at Crew Clothing

Stripe Pin

Doors Out

Navy Pinstripe Leaf Print Shirt €50 at TK Maxx

Jacket, Hoodie, Sweatshirt, Jeans and shoes all from Debenams

Time Make

Skinny Ripped &

Georg Jensen - Men’s Koppel Chronograph Watch - Black €895 at Amara

Big and Tall white Eddy ripped

skinny jeans €45 at River Island

Power Flower

Floral shirt 36 at Next

Stripes Earn your

Hammond & co bowlingshirt €60 at Debenhams

Deal A Teal

Teal T-shirt with collar at Topman

Shade In The

Red Herring Black square frame sunglasses €25 at Debenhams

108 I IWD Feature I Groom’s Room

Download our magazine as an App for your

Mobile Devices le Singue Iss

9

€2.9

ly Year ption cri Subs

9

€9.9

Your favourite wedding magazine is now available for downloading to your phone and tablet so you can now carry the magazine with you everywhere.

ble a l i a Av OS & On Idroid An nes Pho

January/February – Wedding exclusive price package,

Buy 4 three-piece suits, shirts and ties, for €999.99 T&C Apply

DORIAN BLACK, IN HOUSE PERSONAL TAILORING SERVICE. 5 STAR CUSTOMER SERVICE. DEDICATED GROOMS ROOMS IN ALL OF OUR STORES. BOOK BY APPOINTMENT. 6 Balbriggan Retail Park, Dublin Road, Balbriggan.

Tel: +353 (01) 841 6145 28 South Anne’s Lane, Dublin 2, D02 AC62

SUITS TAILORED FOR YOU

www.DorianBlack.Ie

Scarf Striped

Groom’s

Room

Mustard Stripe Scarf €25

Burton Menswear London

Compiled by Peter Cole

Blues Get the

Big and Tall Blue Blazer at River Island

Check Quick

Casual Smart

Blue Skinny Fit Check suit jacket €106 at Next

Jacket, Suit Bag and Holdall all from Debehams

Hoodie Pink

Shoe

Pink ‘ninety eight’ print hoodie

Deck

€28 at River Island

Print Paisley

Grey and Purple Paisley Design Tie €14 at Burton Menswear

Austell Deck Shoe €70 at Crew Clothing

School Back to

Brown Leather & Canvas Satchel

Boot

€69.99 at TK Maxx

Das

110 I IWD Feature I Groom’s Room

Mumford Brown Leather Slip On Ankle Boot - €145 at Dune

KC 5mmbleed210x297.qxp_Layout 1 24/08/2018 12:20 Page 1

Ireland’s Most Luxurious Castle Wedding Venue

Kilronan Castle Estate & Spa BALLYFARNON, CO. ROSCOMMON.

Bring your dreams, We’ll do the rest.

All-Inclusive

Weddings

From €72pp

071 96 18000 enquiries@kilronancastle.ie www.kilronancastle.ie CASTLE HOTELS

Groom’s

Room Compiled by Peter Cole

Berry Purple

1904 Berry Floral Shirt €50 at Burton Menswear London

You Sir Suits

Stripy Short &

Grey Siut Scarf

Shirt and Shoes

Yellow stripe short sleeve revere

from Burtons Menswear

shirt €25 at River Island

Polo

Knitted

Weave knit polo €36 at Next

Biker Brown

Patter

Paisley

Light brown borg lined biker jacket €85 at River Island

Navy paisley Patter Loafer €50 at Nest

Canvas A Blank

RJR. John Rocha Canvas Holdall Bag £55 at Debenhams

112 I IWD Feature I Groom’s Room

Shorts Cargo

Woodcombe Cargo Short €55 at Crew Clothing

Win One of These Great Prizes January For our January Competition wedding Photographer dermot Byrne is giving one lucky bride the chance to get a massive 20% off any of his wedding packages.

Dermot Byrne has an innovative and creative approach and yet he is still able to maintain his friendly manner and sense of fun that brings out that inner smile in all his brides and grooms.

To enter this competition go to www.irishweddingdiary.ie during January Check out www.dermotbyrnephoto.ie

February during november dublin Bridal house are offering one lucky reader the chance to win a bridesmaid dress from their extensive bridesmaid range.

Dublin bridal house are based in Rathfarnham village and they aim to provide their brides with an exceptional level of customer service in luxurious surroundings. You’ll love their collection and variety with samples dresses in sizes UK8-UK20 To enter this competition go to www.irishweddingdiary.ie during February Check out www.dublinbridalhouse.ie

March

in our March competition the annebrook house hotel gives you a chance to win 1 night Bed & Breakfast and dinner for Two in the award winning Old house restaurant The stunningly unique setting of Annebrook House Hotel, attention to detail and the personalisation of each individual wedding is what sets this award winning venue apart from the rest. You will fall in love with the beauty of this Georgian manor with it’s private entrance, cosy reading & drawing rooms, exclusive bar and distinct charm.

To enter this competition go to www.irishweddingdiary.ie during March Check out www.www.annebrook.ie

To enter and for full details plus terms and conditions check out

www.irishweddingdiary.ie and answer the simple question

114 I IWD Feature I Competition 114 I IWD Feature I Competition

Groom’s

Room

Sucker

Compiled by Peter Cole

Seer

J by Jasper Conran White

Seersucker Stripe Jacket £99 at Debenhams

Holder Cash

The Wingback Cash Wallet holds 4-6 cards and up to 20 notes, in Tuscan leather. €67 at wingback.co.uk

Holdall

Jacket Dinner

Breast Double

Navy Dinner Suit and Shirt from Topman

Double breasted suit jacket €106 at Next

Nikko Holdall €85 at Dune

NO. 6 THE PLAZA SWORDS 01-8107453

42 DAWSON STREET DUBLIN 2 01-6772777

BENETTI WEDDING COLLECTIONS NOW INSTORE SUIT RETAIL AND HIRE WWW.PROTOCOLMENSWEAR.COM 116 I IWD Feature I Groom’s Room

Make Your Wedding

A Royal Affair‌ Let Us Sweep You Off Your Feet

The perfect backdrop for your treasured memories

www.royalmarine.ie Contact our dedicated wedding experts on: events@royalmarine.ie or 01 230 0030 Royal Marine Hotel | Marine Road | Dun Laoghaire | Dublin | A96 K063

Something Quirky Here’s a few suppliers who want to make your dream day a lit tle different

Love

Bubbles?

Ape, d a retrofit Piaggio z Bizz have create Love bubbles? Fiz .? ! cool eh… ve bubbles on tap custom-built to ser eptions, day-two rec nks e to cater for dri Travelling nationwid big day. e Wow factor to any , it brings a uniqu ebrations & BBQ’s

cel

ements. suit all party requir es are available to Tailormade packag ch favoured ate their own pea Guests can also cre yal Kir Ro e.

Bellini or a classic z.ie.

Email info@fizzbiz

Fire Guys

Sweet?

Blooming

The Apple Blossoms are Ireland’s freshest vintage trio (with a twist!), colourfully crooning the classic sounds of the 1940s before powering through decades of all the best floor fillers and diva anthems. What sets these girls apart from others like them is their authentic interaction with the crowd and distinct bubbly and contagious energy, sure to leave an impression and a personal touch.

The Apple Blossoms boast a lengthy and varied set list, and can adapt at a moment’s notice to suit the party. Whether it’s music for the ceremony, drinks reception, evening reception (or all of the above!), The Apple Blossoms are sure to deliver

ThoseFireguys are a performance troupe with a very simple philosophy: entertain the world, and have the time of your life while doing it!

Based in Dublin, they have brought smiles, screams, cheers, and gasps to audiences of all ages around the world.

Their current special offer boasts up to €200 off of a four-person (two fire performers, two drummers) Wedding Fire Show!

‘Weddings are our absolute favourite to do..! The atmosphere, the buzz, the fun..!’

ThoseFireguys’ dynamic show will make your guests laugh, cry, cheer, scream, and gasp, and will get them pumped for the party yet to come!

More info at www.thosefireguys.com

118 I IWD Feature I Wedding Ideas

an unforgettable, one-of-a-kind experience!

Don’ t Wed miss our ding Fairs Janu

a Febr ry 6th uary 3rd A beautiful warm country house offering the perfect intimate location for your special day.

84 bedrooms and hosts weddings up to 250 guests 40 minutes south of Dublin city and opposite Powerscourt House and Gardens Open all year round and caters for full civil ceremonies Packages from €55.00 includes host of extras Call us today to discuss how we can help you say “I do”

Summerhill Country House • Tel: 01 2867928 • weddings@summerhillhousehotel.com • www.summerhillhousehotel.com

Something Quirky

A few more peo want to make yo ple who ur day a little differedream nt

Macramé Handmade

Grá agus Sonas Creations are a Dublin based company who provide unique intricate and breathtaking handmade macramé wedding arches and décor.

With ready-made pieces for hire alongside a bespoke design service we will work with your ideas to fulfil your dreams of creating your perfect day.

All are pieces are handcrafted with love and happiness and that’s what we want you to experience on your big day. https://www.etsy.com/ie/shop/Graagussonascreation

Felt Flowers

k n i ffl u C n i o C

CBCK Designs create beautiful felt flowers and décor for

World Coin Cufflinks make wedding

both your wedding day and your home. We

cufflinks out of old coins, which can be worn

specialise in designing the perfect image for your

by all male members of the wedding party. The

special day and showing off your unique style with stunning

bouquets,

boutonnieres,

centrepieces

and

website has coins from over 20 countries, and many of the coins used are no longer in circulation such as the

accessories. Every bouquet is personally designed and

Italian Lira, the Spanish Peseta, and the French Franc, and

handcrafted by the sisters so that it perfectly matches

we also have all of the old Irish coins, including the Irish

the couple’s vision and theme. From subtle and

threepence featuring the Irish Hare and the sixpence with

elegant, to bright and quirky, there is exquisite

the Irish wolfhound. We only use genuine coins, and

care and attention to detail in every

these are very rare as they went out of circulation

creation.

in 1968. www.worldcoincufflinks.com

120 I IWD Feature I Wedding Ideas

Win your Wedding with Só Hotels Your chance to win a €10,000 wedding with Só Hotels

R

ecently engaged couples will be in with a chance to win a €10,000 wedding with Só Hotels. Guests are invited to any of the Só Hotels’ upcoming wedding fairs, where they will be entered into the competition to win when they book in any of the five hotel locations. The Só Hotel group incorporates the Castletroy Park Hotel in Limerick, the Charleville Park Hotel County Cork, the Killeshin Hotel in Portlaoise, the Lough Rea Hotel and Spa, Galway, and most recently, the Athlone Springs Hotel in Westmeath.

Five lucky couples will win €1,000 off their

Charleville Park Hotel

wedding in each of the five locations, with

The Charleville Park Hotel team are committed

each couple then going through to the final

to the values of traditional hospitality and

with a chance to win their €10,000 wedding!

guarantee a warm welcome with a friendly

Couples will have the opportunity to customise

atmosphere,

their wedding to their own preferences and

celebrations will always take centre stage. The

personalities. Why not upgrade your wedding

Charleville Park Hotel team are delighted to

menu or perhaps have a barbecue the day after

have won Best Wedding Venue in Cork 2018 at

your wedding on us? Additional options include

the recent Brides of Limerick Awards.

where

your

Athlone Springs Hotel The latest addition to the Só Hotel group, the Athlone Springs Hotel, is coming into an exciting phase with many areas being refurbished in 2019 and beyond. Be the first to have your wedding in the transformed Athlone Springs Hotel, where the team will help you ensure that your new chapter is started in the best possible way.

wedding-day

Só Hotels The quality of service that each of our hotels

Wedding Room Décor and Draping, a Wedding Cake, a Chauffeur-Driven Car for the wedding

Killeshin Hotel

offer, combined with their dedicated staff, fine

couple and Flowers and Entertainment! We will

Whilst the Killeshin Hotel is contemporary and

food, unique features and special touches

work with the wedding couple to fully customise

modern in design, the team believe in tradition

that make a wedding day so special, are the

their day and make it the most special day of

and hope that with their wedding couples, they

main reasons that the hotels have garnered a

their lives.

can create a day that will be treasured forever.

fantastic reputation for weddings. The hotels

The Killeshin Hotel team are delighted to have

are 100% Irish family-owned and our weddings

Castletroy Park Hotel

been voted Top-Rated Wedding Venue in Laois

have that special magic that only a family-

The Castletroy Park Hotel is there not just

for 2017 by Wedding Dates.ie.

owned hotel can bring. Recently engaged couples can meet our award-winning wedding

to make this the best day of your life, but to create a day that your family and friends will

Lough Rea Hotel & Spa

teams at our upcoming wedding events and

remember for years. The hotel’s dedication and

The multi-award-winning Lough Rea Hotel and

find out about our superb bespoke wedding

service was awarded recently when they were

Spa is one of the most highly recommended

packages.

nominated the overall Best Venue at the Brides

and well-known wedding venues in Galway. The

For more information and to see how you can

of Limerick awards, which includes venues not

Rooftop Garden, with panoramic views over

win a fabulous wedding worth €10,000, visit

just in Limerick but in Cork, Clare & Tipperary

Loughrea Lake, is one area that sets the Lough

SóHotels.ie or attend any of the upcoming

also.

Rea Hotel & Spa apart from the rest.

Wedding Events below:

122 I IWD Feature I Win Your Wedding

Wedding Showcase D ates

HOTELS

Athlone Sp rings Hotel - Sun, 24th Castletroy Feb Park Hotel – Sat 12th & Su n, 13th Jan Charleville Park Hotel – Sun, 17th Feb Killeshin Hot el – Sun, 24 th Feb Lough Rea Hotel & Sp a – Sun, 10 th Feb

TO CELEBRAT E O U R O N E T H O U S AN DTH W E D D I N G AT SÓ H OTE L S W E ARE GI V I N G YO U A CHA NCE TO

Win

YOUR W E D D ING TO THE VALUE O F €10, 000

P LU S W I N € 1 , 0 0 0 O F F YO U R W E D D I N G AT E ACH O F O U R F I V E SÓ H OTE L S

Simply book your wedding in any of our five locations below and you will be entered into the draw to win your wedding reception to the value of €10,000! Five lucky couples will be chosen from each hotel and win €1000 off their wedding with one lucky winner going through to the final to win their wedding reception. *T&C’s Apply. For a full list of terms see www.sohotels.ie

Weddings With Style

TIMELESS

PERFECTION WEDDING SHOWCASE - 12TH & 13TH JANUARY 2019

WEDDING SHOWCASE - 10TH FEBRUARY, 2019 SÓ ELEGANT - Beautiful Ballroom with Seating for 100 to 350 Guests SÓ ROMANTIC - Stunning Views of Lough Rea Lake from the Rooftop Garden SÓ DELECTABLE - New Wedding Menus and New Executive Chef SÓ MEMORABLE - Your Wedding Team will Give You, Your Friends & Family a Day They Will Always Remember

(061) 33 55 66 | nfagan@castletroypark.ie | www.castletroypark.ie

(091) 880088 | sbrogan@loughreahotelandspa.com | www.loughreahotelandspa.com

www.thomassunderland.ie

22 Castle Street Carlow • Phone: +353 (0) 59 9142278 • Email: info@thomassunderland.ie

This family owned enchanted 18th Century Castle is the ideal venue to celebrate your wedding in style. Allow us to use our years of tradition in excellence to create the perfect ambience for your most special day.

Sparkling chandeliers, deep wood furnishings & tapestries, roaring fires, crisp linen, bubbly champagne & silver candelabras merge to create a majestic atmosphere.

Our Castle is the perfect location to capture those unforgettable wedding photos. We are a stone’s throw away from Killiney Hill, Coliemore Harbour & many other beautiful locations which provides perfect backdrops for your Wedding photos. Our beautifully manicured lawns & selection of rare trees & plants also offer stunning backdrops on the grounds of the Castle.

Fitzpatrick Castle Hotel, Killiney, Co. Dublin.

T: +353 1 230 5400. weddings@fitzpatricks.com www.fitzpatrickcastle.com

The Hair & Beauty Chalet Relax in your own home or hotel on the morning of your wedding while we take care of all your hair & make up for the special day!

Why not pamper yourself before the big day!

Get the most radiant glow for your wedding day with our signature treatment “The Skinician Age Delay Glycolic Facial”.

If your looking for superb results but the ultimate relaxation this is the treatment for you!

Contact Amy or Stephanie on 085 742 7141 or 059 9158795 thehairandbeautychalet@gmail.com www.thehairandbeautychalet.com

s r a e ss

ng

brati

Cele

Yn Busine 0 1 i Hair & Beauty Chalet IWD Ad Winter 2017.indd 1

12/09/2017 10:21

Mother of the

BRIDE And occAsionweAr

Outfit by Social Occasions

Outfit by Gabriela Sanchez

Outfit by Luis Civit

Outfit by Linea Raffaelli

126 I IWD Feature I Mother of the Bride

Vanity Fair Stockists of • Condici • Rosa Clara • • Luis Civit • Veni Infantino • • Ispirato • Teresa Ripoll • • Mashiah • Fely Campo • Sara R + many more leading designers Specialists in Mother of the Bride/Groom Wedding Guests also catered for with leading designers Gina Bacconi , Daisy May, Diva, Aideen Bodkin and Caroline Kilkenny

Vanity Fair

The Courtyard Shopping Centre Newbridge, Co.Kildare Ph: 045 431905

www.vanityfair.ie

www.facebook.com/VanityFairBoutique

Mother of the

BRIDE And occAsionweAr

Outfit by Social Occasions

Outfit by Luis Civit

Outfit by Social Occasions

Outfit by Gabriela Sanchez

Outfit by Linea Raffaelli

128 I IWD Feature I Mother of the Bride

From Barcelona a Stunning collection of Mother of the Bride and Guest outfits.

Available from premier boutiques throughout Ireland.

Amanda Nimmo Fashion Agency www.amandanimmo.com

Mother of the

BRIDE And occAsionweAr

Outfit by Luis Civit

Outfit by Social Occasions

Outfit by Gabriela Sanchez

Outfit by Gabriela Sanchez

Outfit by Linea Raffaelli

Outfit by Luis Civit

130 I IWD Feature I Mother of the Bride

23 South Main Street, Naas, Co. Kildare Phone 045 897172 Open Sundays 1 pm –5 pm

www.evita.ie

www.facebook.com/EvitaNaas

THE STYLE STUDIO

At Don’t Call Me Dear

Dedicated Occasion Wear Specialists

Don’t Call Me Dear 8 Mill Street Galway City Tel: 091 530760 www.dontcallmedear.com

A Made to Measure Service No 58. Fitzwilliam Square North, Dublin 2 Call 086 172 1563 E-mail: info@maireforkin.ie Web: www.maireforkin.ie

Mother of the

BRIDE And occAsionweAr

Occasions For All

Vanity Fair is one of Ireland’s

best-loved boutiques for mother of the bride/groom dresses and outfits and also designer wear for all occasions. Stocking classic labels such as Teresa Ripoll, Caroline Kilkenny and Aideen Bodkin as well as all the traditional mother-of-the-bride favourites such as Condici, Rosa Clara, Sara R and Luis Civit, a visit to their boutique in Newbridge, County Kildare, is a must. You’ll be spoilt for choice, with something for every style, size and budget! You are sure to find that ‘special something special’. Tel: 045 431905. www.vanityfair.ie Like them on Facebook and keep up to date.

Elegance Timeless

Occasionwear Chic Stylish

Marians, Boyle have been dressing stylish brides for over

60 years, and are delighted to be adding fabulous new designers to their mother of bride/groom collections for

Macbees, Killarney is a destination boutique for those seeking that

2019. The fashion-buyers brief, at Marians, is to source

unique look for any occasion. As mother of the bride or groom, you’ll

glamorous, contemporary fashion of classical cut and

be spoilt for choice with expertly curated collections, which mix timeless

design, that is both well-tailored and affordable.

elegance and a fashion-forward flair for those who dare to be different.

Providing great fashion advice on dressing for your shape, size, lifestyle and wardrobe, a fantastic variety

2019 trends for MOB/MOG include embellishment, vibrant tones and

of labels guarantee smart styling for sophisticated

tailoring, and can be found in Macbees perennially favourite brands –

ladies up to size 24. For the lovely mums, Marians

Max Mara Studio, Riani, Paule Ka, Fely Campo, Carla Ruiz, Veni Infantino,

is a must-visit store for a top selection of chic

Moskada, Linea Raffaelli and Luis Civit, as well as home-grown talents

occasion wear including hats, headpieces and

Aideen Bodkin, Heidi Higgins, FeeG, Caroline Kilkenny and jewellery by

jewellery. Marians, in business since 1954,

MoMuse and Vivien Walsh. Macbees celebrates real women with real

are reliable, dedicated fashionistas who

style, in stocking sizes from 8 to 20.

love fashion and have fun with it. Tel: 071 9662031 or visit www.marians.ie to see

All this and more can be explored in the luxurious surroundings of Macbees, with friendly, experienced and enthusiastic staff on hand to help find the perfect outfit, stunning accessories and a choice of bespoke headwear. Follow Macbees on Facebook or browse their website: www. macbees.ie.

132 I IWD Feature I Mother of the Bride

their new collections.

Sineads BOUTIQUE

Wedding Guests Mother of the Bride Mother of the Groom Casuals Occasion Accessories

DARE TO BE DIFFERENT www.macbees.ie (064) 6633622

/macbees @macbeeskillarney

MARIANS A TRADITION OF EXCELLENCE

Tel: 061 33 96 96 Salmon Weir, Annacotty, Limerick.

Bridge Street, Boyle, Co. Roscommon.

Phone: +353-(0)71-9662031

Web: www.marians.ie

Open: Monday - Saturday 10.00am - 5.30pm Sunday 1pm - 5pm • Sizes 6 - 22 Deposits taken

www.sineadsboutique.com

Mother of the

BRIDE And occAsionweAr

Fashionistas Calling

La Crème Boutique, Gorey, Co. Wexford, will leave you honing in on its vast selection of hand-picked desirables for mother of the bride/groom and wedding guests, versatile daywear and fabulous

Fuller Figure

footwear all waiting to tempt the discerning fashionistas in this heavenly haven of high style.

The highly trained team of stylists at La Crème take pride in doing things a little bit differently, with not only astounding outfits and accessories fit for any occasion, but important add-on details and a top-class level of styling expertise. They will help

Dreamy Curves in Bray, Co. Wicklow are now stocking a beautiful

you pick the outfit that will match the theme of the

range of dresses for the mother of the bride and groom, wedding

wedding to help you truly stand out from the crowd

guests, a day at the races, a cruise or other special occasions. They

on that special day.

have carefully chosen a range of designers and have picked dresses from their collections designed to flatter the fuller figure. They stock

Visit www.lacremeboutique.com today to view the

sizes from 18 to 30 and a range of complementary fascinators, hats,

collections or shop online.

shoes and bags. Their chosen designers are Veromia Dressed Up, Jomhoy, Anoola, Gina Bacconi, Kirsten Krog, Ann Balon and Lexus shoes.

Something Special Don’t Call Me Dear is a

must for anyone looking for something special to wear for the big day .

Situated in Galway City , this store has becom e the leading dedicated boutique for occasion wear in the West of Ireland. Stocking labe ls from throughout Europe are complemented by a huge millinery and hat hire collection, as well as a shoe boutique. The DCMD girls really can look after you from hea d to toe.

With in-house stylists as well as their own seamstress service, DCM D really have thought of everything. Pay the m a visit and see for yourself! With rela xed surroundings and attention to offering the very best in customer service, the DCMD exp erience is a must.

Stocking sizes 8 to 28, Tel: 091 530760. www.dontcallmedear.co m

www.dreamycurves.ie Tel: 01 2765500

Limerick Lady in

Sinead’s Boutique is situated in the Annacotty area of Limerick, which is conveniently located beside the M7 motorway. Many people travel considerable distances to be served by Sinead and her highly qualified staff, and once you have visited, you will understand why. Sinead’s boutique stocks a vast range of international labels that are especially suitable for mother of the bride / groom and occasion wear. Save yourself time and stress by visiting Sinead’s. You are guaranteed a very enjoyable experience in truly elegant and modern surroundings.

134 I IWD Feature I Mother of the Bride

Tel: 061 33 96 96. www.sineadsboutique.com

Stockists Rep. of Ireland.

Don’t Call Me Dear, Galway Evita Boutique, Naas Isobel, Adare Jennys Boutique, Dunshaughlin & Malahide Jon Claire, Cork Kathleens, Sligo La crème, Gorey Lynch Fashions, Banagher Macbees, Killarney Mcelhennys, Ballybofey Northern Ireland Blush Boutique, Belfast Gasp Boutique, Armagh Katriona, Banbridge Magowans, Ballynahinch The Fashion House, Margherfelt T HThe E Queen B, Five Mile Town The Wardrobe, Ballyclare F A S H I O N G R O U P

T H E

F A S H I O N G R O U P

Tel: 0044 141 221 7666 mandy@mandybarrfashion.co.uk www.mandybarrfashion.co.uk.

Mother of the

BRIDE And occAsionweAr

Beautiful & Unique

Timeless Fashion Chic

Statement

pieces and timeless Featuring beautifully tailored ction has exquisite colle classics, Maire Forkin’s 2019 h she carefully designs detailing in luxury fabrics, whic to flatter the figure! who has worked in UK Maire, a designer and tailor of years, is best known fashion houses for a number and building shape into a for her emphasis on structure chic, clean-cut designs silhouette without corsetry. Her orary mother of the bride are ideal for today’s contemp do not want the typical and mother of the groom, who also dresses ladies in mother of the bride outfit. She Oscars, the races and both the UK and Ireland for the for all special occasions. e-to-measure for each Maire’s collection, which is mad intment at her studio client can be viewed by appo in. She also offers Dubl in Fitzwilliam Square North, ts who want something unique individual styling to clien different. studio at 58 Fitzwilliam For an appointment at her Maire on 086 172 1563 Square North, Dublin, contact in.ie. or email her at info@mairefork

Contemporary Classic and

A visit to Evita Boutique, Naas, is sure to

cater for all your mother of the bride and Design Centre has been a leading force in Irish fashion, dressing Ireland’s most stylish women for over three decades. For the contemporary woman who loves simplicity and elegance, Design Centre is the ‘go to‘ destination in Dublin for those timeless covetable classics. Voted ‘Best Irish Offering’ in the Image Boutique Awards 2018 and winners of the XPOSÉ ‘XFA‘ Fashion Awards 2017 ‘Best Occasional Boutique‘, this team of fashion experts will help put together a truly beautiful and uniquely individual look for that big occasion. Design Centre Stocks the bestselling exclusive ‘Tricotine ‘ label along with the very best of Irish designers including Caroline Kilkenny, Catriona Hanly, Helen Mc Alindin, Deborah Veale, Sookyoung Song, the iconic Philip Treacy, and bespoke in house Milliner Aoife Harrison.

Tel: (01) 679 5718 www.thedesigncentre.ie

136 I IWD Feature I Mother of the Bride

groom needs. Whether you are looking for a classic or contemporary style, you will be spoilt for choice in this leading boutique.

Evita stocks an extensive range of brands in sizes 8 to 26 and have a wide range of dresses, separates and casuals for any occasion. Their passionate and experienced staff will be more than happy to help you chose that special outfit.

Follow them on Facebook to keep up to date with their latest collections. Open Monday to Saturday 10–5:30 and Sundays from 1pm to 5pm.

Tel: 045897172 www.evita.

Bridal Brooch Bouquets Make the Memory Last with an Individually Hand Crafted Satin Rose and Brooch Bridal Bouquet

by Ann Cassidy

Contact 01-4501533 • Mobile 0879776441 www.bridalbouquet.ie

Cassidy Brooch Bouquets Spring 2018.indd 1

Marleigh House, 82/83 Main Street, 05/12/2017 Bray, Co. Wicklow A98 H5N3 Tel: 086 807 5312 / 01 276 5500 www.dreamycurves.ie

Design Centre has been dressing Ireland’s most stylish women for over 30 years. We stock the very best of Irish and international labels including the iconic Philip Treacy, the exclusive award winning Tricotine label, Catriona Hanly, Helen Mc Alinden, Synan O’Mahony and much more.

20:06

Stockist of : Kirsten Krog, Gina Bacconi, Ann Balon, Anoola and Jomhoy

Mother-of-the-bride size 18-30 • Evening Gowns and Debs size 14-30

01 6795718 | 01 6795 863 Design Centre, Powerscourt Townhouse Centre, 59 South William Street, Dublin 2 Email: designcentredublin@gmail.com www.thedesigncentre.ie

AWARDS As voted by Readers of Irish Wedding Diary Magazine

Nominate your Favourite Bridal Supplier in the 2019 Irish Wedding Diary Magazine Awards Now is your chance to reward those wedding suppliers who have gone the extra mile to make sure your wedding day is truly the best day of your lives.

Nominations are now open in all categories of wedding suppliers.

The Top 5 in each category on February 14th will go through to a vote off with a winner in each category chosen on March 14th.

To nominate your favourite suppler go here

www.irishweddingdiary.ie/awards

WHY WAIT?

THE BEAUTIFUL SEAFIELD HOTEL & SPA RESORT EXUDES CONTEMPORARY ELEGANCE IN A MAGICAL SETTING ON BALLYMONEY SHORE WITH ITS OWN PRIVATE BEACH. EXCHANGE VOWS AND CELEBRATE IN STYLE IN ONE OF FOUR BESPOKE SPACES.

JUST AN HOUR FROM SOUTH DUBLIN, SEAFIELD OFFERS PERSONAL SERVICE, GORGEOUS STYLING AND WORLD CLASS FACILITIES TO MAKE YOUR WEDDING A TRULY MEMORABLE EXPERIENCE.

YOUR GUESTS, ALL OF THEM, KNEW YOU’D COME UP WITH SOMETHING SPECIAL. AND SO YOU HAVE.

SEAFIELD HOTEL & SPA RESORT ballymoney, gorey, co. wexford

t: 053 9485107 e: events@seafieldhotel.com w: www.seafieldhotel.com

Location: Cabra Castle Due to its idyllic location location and superb range of accommodation, Cabra Castle is one of the leading luxury hotels in Ireland and is also one of the best-known castle wedding venues in Ireland. It has been the venue of choice for many society and celebrity weddings due to its large capacity.

Wander through the magnificent reception rooms, find a quiet corner or fireside to relax with a book, or just enjoy the atmosphere in one of the best-known Castle hotels in Ireland. Period features and furnishings create an authentic, old-world charm and a long tradition of warm and friendly service make Cabra Castle the perfect retreat from the pace of modern living.

Kingscourt, Co. Cavan A82 EC64 Ireland Tel: +353 42 966 7030 Email: sales@cabracastle.com

Photography: White Amber Photography Web: www.whiteamberphotography.com Tel: +353-87-7656706

Hair: Marina @Bridal By Nikki Kavanagh Make Up: Danielle @Bridal By Nikki Kavanagh Tel: +3531 8254338 www.bridalbynikkikavanagh.com

140 I IWD Bridal I Cabra Cast;e

Cabra Castle Photoshoot Spring 2019.indd 140

30/01/2019 07:33

Castle Bridal Photoshoot in Cabra Castle Photography by White Amber Photography

Dress by Amsha Bridal Ricehill, Crossdoney, Co. Cavan.

Phone: 086-780 5957 Email: amshabridal@gmail.com Web� www.amshabridal.ie

Cabra Castle I IWD Bridal I 141

Dress by Amsha Bridal 142 I IWD Bridal I Cabra Cast;e

Ricehill, Crossdoney, Co. Cavan. Tel: 086-780 5957 Email: amshabridal@gmail.com WEB: www.amshabridal.ie

Dress by Amsha Bridal Ricehill, Crossdoney, Co. Cavan. Tel: 086-780 5957 Email: amshabridal@gmail.com WEB: www.amshabridal.ie

Cabra Castle I IWD Bridal I 143

Dress by La Bella Sposa 144 I IWD Bridal I Cabra Cast;e

Swords, Co Dublin Tel: 01 8075712 www.labellasposa.ie info@labellasposa.ie

Dress by La Bella Sposa Swords, Co Dublin Tel: 01 8075712 www.labellasposa.ie info@labellasposa.ie

Cabra Castle I IWD Bridal I 145

Dress by La Bella Sposa 146 I IWD Bridal I Cabra Cast;e

Swords, Co Dublin Tel: 01 8075712 www.labellasposa.ie info@labellasposa.ie

Dress by La Bella Sposa Swords, Co Dublin Tel: 01 8075712 www.labellasposa.ie info@labellasposa.ie

Cabra Castle I IWD Bridal I 147

Dress by Edel Tuite Design Award Winning Bridal Designer Upper Mell, Drogheda, Co. Louth.

Tel: 041 987 2951 Email: edel@edeltuitedesign.com Web: www.edeltuitedesign.com

148 I IWD Bridal I Cabra Cast;e

Dress by Edel Tuite Design Award Winning Bridal Designer Upper Mell, Drogheda, Co. Louth. Tel: 041 987 2951 Email: edel@edeltuitedesign.com Web: www.edeltuitedesign.com

Cabra Castle I IWD Bridal I 149

Dress by Edel Tuite Design Award Winning Bridal Designer Upper Mell, Drogheda, Co. Louth. Tel: 041 987 2951 Email: edel@edeltuitedesign.com Web: www.edeltuitedesign.com

150 I IWD Bridal I Cabra Cast;e

Photograph by Thompson Photography Photography by Thomspon Photography

Your Wedding Journey Begins Here

Paul Callaghan Photography

Carrickmacross Road, Kingscourt, Co Cavan, Ireland www.cabracastle.com | Tel: 00353 42 9667030 | Email: marketing@cabracastle.com www.romanticcastlesireland.com

White Amber Photography

www.whiteamberphotography.com info @whiteamberphotography.com Phone 00353(0)87-7656706

Exclusive Destination Wedding Photographer Ireland & Worldwide

Š - ERIC MOLIMARD PHOTOGRAPHY

Your Perfect Wedding Venue Set in the beautiful Ashford Estate with spectacular views across shimmering Lough Corrib, it’s hard to imagine a more romantic setting for your special day. The Lodge at Ashford Castle is available for both exclusive and non-exclusive use.

We can accommodate wedding parties with up to 180 guests and have 64 elegant bedrooms and suites for you and your guests, with additional bedrooms available at Ashford Castle.

For all enquiries please contact: claire@thelodgeac.com

Cong, County Mayo, Ireland T: +353 94 954 5400 www.thelodgeac.com

Irish Wedding Diary 210 x 297.indd 2

11/11/2016 13:59

The Real Wedding of

Deni & Dermot In Malta With Sarah Young Wedding Planners on 24th of August 2018

D

ermot and I met in London in 2013 where we both lived after moving from Ireland, and Bulgaria a few years earlier.

A month or so later, we had our first date at Polpo – a lovely Venetian restaurant – where we discovered our shared interests in Design and Architecture.

It was important to us to find a location that was accessible from London, Dublin, Sofia, Vienna, Milan & Brussels, where we had relatives and friends. Initially we looked at locations on the Black Sea coast in Bulgaria, where Deni is from, but it proved difficult to fly all the guests there. We then looked at wedding locations in

Dermot proposed in the gardens of the

We didn’t want to spend a long time planning

Portugal, Spain, Italy and Greece but couldn’t

beautiful Art Deco Eltham Palace in London

a wedding but we did want something special,

find the right place. We came across Malta by

on a spring morning. I said ‘yes’ and then

intimate and outdoors.

chance. Neither of us had been there but it

remained speechless for about 6 hours – a first!

154 I IWD Travel I Wedding Abroad

appeared to be an island rich in culture, history

and good weather. We took a quick trip to Malta

knew that it was either Malta or going back to

Sarah gave us great confidence and we really wouldn’t have had the wedding we dreamt of without her and her team.

the start – it was an easy choice.

to meet the priest, taste the food, and

to see some venues. As we wanted to organise a destination wedding in five months, we needed not just a wedding planner, but a good one! On this trip we met Sarah Young and her team. She had impeccable reviews and she was also working with two of the venues we liked.

After visiting Malta and meeting Sarah we both

find an after-party venue. We sorted everything else by email and phone.

We relied heavily on Sarah’s advice, her trusted suppliers and caterers.

She gave us great confidence and we really wouldn’t have had the wedding we wanted without her team.

We wanted to have an after-party on the beach to take advantage of being in the middle of the Mediterranean.

We spent a day visiting every beach on the Maltese coast in search of the magical place when we stumbled Sarah and Michelle were so great, we only had

upon Singita in Għajn Tuffieħa Bay. It

to go back to Malta once before the wedding –

was everything we wanted: the whole

Wedding Abroad I IWD Travel I 155

alcove beach and bar just for us, with a fire and

The most meaningful part of the day was the

white blankets and pillows around it. On the

speeches where everyone spoke kindly and not

way back we even found a shop that sold cases

too long, except for the best man who took the

of “Rakia” (national Bulgarian alcohol) and a

opportunity to tell a few stories as you would

Bulgarian baker who made the bread for the

expect. Dermot’s best man was John, his friend

ritual on the wedding day.

from growing up in Malahide and living in London so had 30 years of material to work

The wedding day itself was tremendous fun.

with!

We were married in a beautiful baroque Maltese villa within a spectacular walled garden; the perfect setting for an outdoor wedding.

Many of our friends and family made a mini holiday out of the trip. Everyone really enjoyed

We were married in a beautiful baroque Maltese villa within a spectacular walled garden dresses. I also got a feather and gold-leaf crown

the food, the bar, the dancing and the villa

from an independent designer, to complete the

and gardens. We had lots of amazing pictures full of atmosphere captured by one of Sarah’s

The most emotional part was the ceremony

Thracian look. Dermot wore a dark green suit

photographers, who happened to be an Irish

and the readings: Dermot turning around to

with a gold tie, which referenced the colours

man living in Malta, who has a distinctive and

see me in my dress for the first time...

of Eire.

The dress was a surprise in gold. I only went to

Directly after the wedding we went to Gozo,

Close to midnight we moved to the beach bar

two shops, whose great style I knew through

a smaller quiet island above Malta, for a few

in Għajn Tuffieħa Bay. The Irish sang songs on

work. I went dress shopping with my best man

days to unwind. We are planning a January

the coach and the party continued at the beach

(Yes, I had a best man instead of a maid of

honeymoon in Guatemala and Belize where

where we went on singing, eating, drinking

honour). I chose a dress called ‘The Goddess’

we want to climb volcanoes, see the Mayan

around the fire and swimming in the sea.

whose front resembles Bulgarian national

temples and lie on Caribbean beaches.

natural style.

All photos (except beach photo above) by Shane P. Watts Photography

156 I IWD Travel I Wedding Abroad

★★

HHHHH Five Star WeddingS in Malta With

EvErything” ran so smoothly and that is down to you and your wondErful tEam KarEn cassidy & william collins

sarah is a fantastic wEdding plannEr. shE is so profEssional and EfficiEnt shE ExcEls at what shE doEs dEnisE and william o’nEill

your sErvicE is sEcond to nonE, profEssional, friEndly, prEcisE, and thoughtful JEnnifEr watson & david ravEn

The Heart of a

Happy Honeymoon

Of all the holidays you will ever take, this is the one where the memories will last forever. So don’t go it alone, it’s too important. So, let a tour operator like Trailfinders take all the planning off your hands, from start to finish, leaving you free to prepare for your big day.

Every year, more than 7,000 couples choose

They also negotiate special offers exclusively

Trailfinders to inspire them. Trailfinder can

for honeymooners that you shouldn’t miss out

open doors that are otherwise closed and

on, from a complimentary bottle of champagne

they’ll include many unique and memorable

to help you celebrate, to reduced rates, room

experiences – whether you’re looking to stay at

upgrades and even free nights; they’ll ensure

the most stylish hotels in the hippest locations,

you have the honeymoon you deserve.

Call 01 881 4918, pop in for a chat or visit trailfinders.ie/honeymoons.

celebrate with a romantic candlelit dinner on a far-flung beach, or splash out on a stay in the

South Africa often tops the charts - many

ultimate honeymoon suite – their specialists

honeymooners choose to combine it with

can help you every step of the way.

the beautiful beaches of the Indian Ocean or the glitz and glamour of a short stay in Dubai. Southeast Asia is also hugely popular with Thailand, Bali and Vietnam making many couples’ wishlists. Perhaps you’d like to explore Australia’s Great Barrier Reef, tour New Zealand’s South Island or do a classic California road trip before relaxing on the white sands of

They know you’re busy so why not make use of their ‘Honeymoons by Appointment’ service.

This allows you to talk through your ideas with a consultant so they can start investigating your options before your appointment in one of their travel centres.

a Mexican beach – it’s all possible!

Trailfinders has travel centres in Dublin, Cork, No two honeymoons are the same, so don’t worry if you’ve yet to make up your mind as Trailfinders has dedicated honeymoon consultants on hand to help.

158 I IWD Travel I Honeymoons

Limerick and Belfast which are open seven days a week: Monday - Friday 9am-7pm Saturday 9am-6pm

Sunday 10am-6pm.

Trailfinders Honeymoon Wishlist

Honeymoon Top Tips Trailfinders has over 45 years experience of organising honeymoons all over the world. Here’s a few gems of wisdom they’ve picked up over the years to help things go smoothly...

Sydney Opera

House

d

Thailan

Burj Khalifa , Dubai

ridge, Gate B Golden

co

ncis San Fra

At a time when finances can easily be stretched by a wedding, it’s comforting to know there is a very easy way to give your friends and family the chance to help your honeymoon dreams come true.

A Trailfinders Honeymoon Wishlist can be set up

Maldive

s

at any time, even before you’ve made your travel plans. The service is completely free of charge and is your personal crowd funding site. Your guests can share your excitement, keep up to date with your wedding and honeymoon plans, make a contribution and post their congratulations.

Trailfinders will provide you with stylish guest cards that you can use to let everyone know your preference for the ‘gift of travel’ and they’ll alert you by email each time your guests contribute.

They’ll also send an automated thank you to your friends and family, and you can send a personalised e-card if you wish.

What’s more, to help you on your way, Trailfinders will contribute the first €100 towards your Honeymoon Wishlist. The €100 will be credited when you initially set up your Honeymoon Wishlist with them and can be used towards your honeymoon booking, provided you have had at least one other contribution from your guests.

So break with tradition - instead of unwrapping Egyptian cotton sheets, enjoy a stay in your chosen luxury hideaway, knowing it will mean as much to your friends and family as it does to you.

It’s so easy - speak to one of their consultants on 01 881 4918 or check out the Trailfinders Honeymoon Wishlist at trailfinders.ie/wishlist.

Book Early Flights can get booked up a long way in advance - especially over summer or Christmas, So once you have a wedding date decided, get your honeymoon booked. With Trailfinders, you can book your honeymoon

Stopovers

with a deposit, with full payment normally only

If you are travelling long-haul, consider

needed two months before the big day.

breaking your journey midway for a couple of nights, allowing you to recharge the batteries

Take Your Time

and arrive at your final destination rested.

After all the excitement of the ‘big day’, you certainly won’t want to be rushing off anywhere

Think Ahead

at the crack of dawn. So if you get married on a

Pre-book as much as possible so you don’t have

Saturday, try and book a Sunday afternoon or

to worry when you are away. For example,

evening flight. You might even want to consider

enquire about meal plans at hotels where you

a Monday departure in order to avoid any last

have long stays or ask about vehicle hire if you

minute rush.

are keen to do some exploring.

Take it Easy

Special Offers

Don’t underestimate the physical and emotional

Remember to tell Trailfinders your holiday

exhaustion resulting from a hectic lead-up to

is your honeymoon from the outset. Many

the wedding and the excitement of the day

hotels provide special offers exclusively for

itself. Make sure you factor in lots of relaxation

honeymooners, from reduced rates and free

time, especially when you first arrive, and don’t

nights to romantic dinners or spa treatments.

bite off more than you can chew by planning a

Their travel consultants will help you choose

jam-packed itinerary.

the best value offer to suit you.

Honeymoons I IWD Travel I 159

Sign up to TRAILFINDERS

Honeymoon Wishlist and we’ll contribute €100 to your honeymoon.

When only award-winning travel will do 5 LUX* SOUTH ARI ATOLL MALDIVES

5 + THE OBEROI MAURITIUS

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SAVING OVER €500 Includes flights, seaplane transfers, daily breakfast, a honeymoon booking discount & a FREE couples massage

SAVING OVER €1,500 Includes flights, private transfers, daily breakfast, a honeymoon booking discount & a free bottle of wine on arrival

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• Stunning island retreat • 2 miles of white sand beach • Wonderful LUX* Me Spa • Five bars and eight restaurants

• Idyllic north west coast location • 20 acres of lush sub-tropical gardens • Exceptional service • Holistic spa • Excellent dining

• Private pool villas • Six Senses Spa • Peaceful beach • 2 restaurants including ‘Dining on the Rocks’ offering fine dining perched on a rocky outcrop with beautiful views

For exclusive offers, information on our honeymoon wishlist, or to request your free honeymoon brochure

Call 01 881 4918 • Pop in for a chat • Visit trailfinders.ie/honeymoons

Prices are per person ‘from’ prices based on double share, subject to availability & valid for selected May & June 2019 departures.

Trailfinders is licensed by the Commission for Aviation Regulation, TA 0542.

03281 Irish Wedding Diary Spring Ad_ 210x297mm.indd 1

23/11/2018 15:52

WEDDINGTRAVEL HONEYMOONS & WEDDINGS ABROAD Compiled by Alex Joyce

Honeymoon

Reunion Film Stars & Five Stars

The renowned Sofitel Legend Metropole in Hanoi is no stranger to honeymooners since Charlie Chaplin stayed here after he eloped with Paulette Goddard in the early 1930s. You’ll be in good company if you honeymoon here as many stars of Hollywood, Royalty and Presidents make this their hotel of choice when in Hanoi. A delightful mix of Colonial European styles with an oriental twist, the hotel is constantly upgrading to lead the way in five-star luxury in Asia.

Following a top-to-toe renovation, the Metropole’s new Angelina Restaurant, which opened its doors on 15 September, is turning the tide on Hanoi’s entertainment and culinary scene.. The bar, lounge and restaurant, which features a brand new concept, a new chef as well as a completely different top quality menu, has its sights set on becoming the capital’s most sought-after venue.

You can look forward to a selection of hand-crafted cocktails, an exceptional wine list as well as the most interesting whisky offering in Vietnam. Honeymoon Reunion

Located in the Mascarene Archipelago in the Indian Ocean, Reunion Island – a French overseas department – offers travellers the exoticism of a tropical island in the Indian Ocean. At the crossroads of European, African and Asian cultures, Reunion is a true melting pot.

Wonderful Honeymoon Sri Lanka has everything the adventurous honeymooner could desire. Not only does it have miles of beaches to unwind and relax on but you’ll also have ancient ruins to explore, majestic wildlife including elephants, crocodiles and the odd leopard to view, beautifully exotic cuisine to tantalise your taste buds, and a wonderfully welcoming people to share your time with.

You can also treat yourselves to some luxurious five-star accommodation to treat yourselves such as the Anantara Peach Haven Tangalle Resort. Boasting a truly unique location, Anantara Peace Haven is the only resort in Tangalle to be nestled on a rocky outcrop, along a secluded stretch of Sri Lanka’s ruggedly beautiful southern coast.

Naturally exclusive, our secret hideaway offers a tranquil escape to get away from it all. For travellers with a sense of adventure, our resort is your gateway to the island’s plethora of sacred heritage sites, the colourful traditions of local life, and vast national parks of free-roaming wildlife. Honeymoon in ocean-view luxury with a private wine dinner and romantic in-room surprises.

This could also be the venue for the ultimate wedding abroad where you could follow Sri Lankan dancers and drummers down an aisle of golden sand to an arch of white silk and tropical flowers and say “I do” in a ceremony of traditional island rituals.

For more information, see tangalle.anantara.com

Honeymoons I IWD Travel I 161

In Tuscany and Le March

Your Dream Italian Wedding Awaits

Italy has always been a firm favourite with Irish couples who dream of getting married abroad. Tuscany, in particular, has proved the most popular destination for brides seeking an exclusive, authentic Italian setting for their wedding as well as a dream honeymoon destination for people who truly love the Italian way of life. Its picturesque hilltop towns, rolling landscapes of vineyards and olive groves, the historic cities of Florence, Pisa and Sienna plus beautiful sandy beaches are a wedding photographer’s dream.

Just two hours’ flight from Dublin, stylish

With this in mind, we sent our reporter to

seaside resorts, sleepy country villages where

have a look at some properties in Tuscany that

time has stood still, and cites filled with art,

can complete the idyllic Tuscany wedding. We

heritage and stunning architecture mean there

centred around the beautiful Tuscan city of

is something to keep all your guests busy in the

Sienna and found three gorgeous properties

lead up to your big day. Add wonderful wines,

that would make a perfect wedding venue and

delicious cuisine and beautiful Italian sunshine

a dream honeymoon. We also headed to Le

to the package and you’ll find your RSVPs will

Marche a unspoilt and undiscovered regions of

be flying back so fast with the ‘yes’ box ticked.

Italy and found a magic place for your wedding.

162 I IWD Travel I Weddings Abroad

T

he first port of call was Borgo Pignano,

We were efficiently checked in and quickly

I met with Oriol Juve deYebra, the General

a beautifully restored 18th-century

shown to our beautifully appointed suite

Manager, who told me that the wedding party

villa on the site of an ancient Etruscan

on the second floor of the main villa. All the

would use every part of the grounds during

house,

rooms in the villa are individually styled in the

their day. Normally the ceremony or blessing

cottages, maisonettes and farmhouses, which

unique rustic charm of Tuscany, containing

would take place in front of the old church just

now house elegant accommodation for you and

dark woods, vaulted ceilings and terracotta

to the left of the main villa, with the ceremony

your guests in authentic Tuscan style. Set in

floors; some even have original frescoes. None

table at the foot of the steps leading up to the

hamlet,

complete

with

a

manor

over 750 acres of woodland, ponds and small

church. After the ceremony, the happy couple

lakes, the estate organically grows not only

are spoilt for choice as to where to take their

most of the ingredients for the hotel’s two excellent restaurants but also for many of the soaps and beauty products in the bathrooms and the spa.

The wedding banquet is set out on the lawn in front of the villa,

wedding vows: from the arches and columns, and vaulted ceilings in the main villa, to the stunning gardens or swimming pools with the Tuscan landscape as the backdrop.

While the photography is happening, the guests

As we parked the car and walked along the gravel path through the landscaped English

of the rooms have a TV, which is a welcome

walk through the scented gardens at the back

garden with terraces and lawns, we found

development; with such a beautiful estate,

of the hotel, where cocktails are served and

one of the many secluded viewing areas with

set in one of the more picturesque regions

they then join the happy couple on the lawn

wooden benches where we took in the stunning

in Europe, it would be almost a sin to sit in a

outside the restaurant with views over the pool

views. The lush rolling vineyards in the valley

room watching ’Corrie’. If you do need a fix

into the valley below for pre-dinner drinks.

below leading to the hills and mountains

of your favourite soap or sport event, the WiFi

The wedding banquet is set out on the lawn

beyond were all bathed in the soft Tuscan

here is great and you should be able to stream

in front of the villa, where guests are placed

sunlight. Slowly, the serenity of the landscape

your show. The cottages and maisonettes on

at a long table, where the food is served as

erased the stress of the long and winding drive

the site are perfect for family groups with their

the sun sets and then, under a starlit sky with

from Bologna and I could feel my shoulders

own fully functional kitchens and are just as

open air chandeliers casting a warm light over

loosen, my breath ease and my heartbeat slow

elegantly furnished as the main villa.

proceedings. Finally, the happy couple and their

down. I was ready for my Tuscan adventure.

guests make their way to the courtyard, where they can dance the night away. Oriol explained that the couple must hire the whole property to ensure that regular guests don’t interfere with the wedding and visa-versa, and weddings are normally a two-day event with either a pre-wedding meal the night before or a postwedding barbecue the following day.

See more at : www.borgopignano.com

Weddings Abroad I IWD Feature I 163

M

y next stop on the journey was

some imposing cypress trees. This venue is on

Jesse, the General Manager, gave me a tour of

Castello di Vicarello, a sensitively

a smaller scale than Borgo Pignano but is no

the estate and explained how the happy couple

restored

hotel.

less impressive. Just seven suites make up this

are intimately involved in planning all the

Owners, Carlo and Aurora Bacchesci Berti

hotel but each is exquisitely decorated with

details of the wedding. With only seven suites,

live on the top floor suite of the castle with

an eclectic mix of antiques and artefacts from

the whole of the castle is taken up with the

their family and their attention to detail and

Europe and the Far East, all hand-picked by

immediate family but surrounding villages have

dedication in restoring this wonderful castle

Carlo and Aurora. We stayed in Suite Vicario,

plenty of accommodation for all your guests,

boutique

castle

which used to be the private residence of the priest of the estate. The suite has an immense living area with a large open fireplace and a large Indonesian four-poster bed, while the bedroom has an enormous wooden bed with a terracotta brick floor, and leads through to a

Most of the food is grown on the estate and prepared in the ancient stone kitchen

luxurious bathroom, with a hand-made copper bathtub. Each window has a beautiful view.

and taxis and busses are available to get your guests to and from the venue. The ceremony

Most of the food is grown on the estate and

itself is set up on the lawn, with the stunning

prepared in the ancient stone kitchen at the

castle as the backdrop on one side, and the

heart of the castle. In keeping with the convivial

meticulous gardens of lavender, climbing roses

nature of this venue, dining is done around a

and ancient olive trees on the other. Below that,

shows in every element of this wonderful

large table where you get to meet and share

the rolling Tuscan countryside unfolds under a

venue. Like many of these estates, the castle

dinner with the other guests in the castle. If

Tuscan sun that bathes this stunning landscape

is located at the end of a rather tricky gravel

you’d like something a little more romantic, you

in a golden glow right across to the sliver of

road, which seems to be leading nowhere until

can also choose to dine by candlelight under

the Adriatic Sea on the horizon. It’s hard to

you get buzzed through a farmer’s gate and the

the stars on the grassy terrace with 360°-views

imagine a more stunning setting for your dream

stunning castle emerges around a bend, behind

of the surrounding countryside.

wedding. See more at: castellodivicarello.com

164 I IWD Travel I Weddings Abroad

W

hen we left Castello di Vicarello,

At the heart of Follonico is its family of animals

When we visited, they were just finishing the

we headed to our final Tuscan

who greet guests with enthusiasm. Geese pace

landscaping around a new swimming pool,

destination – Follonico – a truly

elegantly around the pond, whilst sheep, hens

which is hidden away from the main house but

Tuscan

to

and dogs wander around the sloping lawn.

enjoys magnificent views over the surrounding

Castello di Vicarello, this venue has limited

Resident cats doze in the dappled shade and

countryside.

accommodation

the donkey and horses graze in the paddock

authentic

farmhouse.

with

just

six

Similar

individually

decorated suites but this property is on a much

near the vegetable garden.

While Follonico might not have the wow factor of the previous two properties, it oozes charm

smaller, more intimate scale. While not as grand as the castle, this venue is no less charming

They only cater for a small number of weddings

and intimacy, is warm and inviting, and is very

and, in fact, is a little more personal, where you

each year and Fabio explained to me that they

firmly rooted in the land and nature. Of the

really feel like one of the family.

prefer to cater for unique, small, intimate

three properties we visited, this is definitely one

gatherings of family and friends who are

where I’d like to have spent more time to relax

We were greeted by the owners, Fabio and

looking for a relaxed, informal and enchanting

and unwind in.

Suzanne, who run this property with love and

celebration in a timeless, fairy-tale setting for a

See more at : www.follonico.com

enthusiasm and no little hard work. They live in a private part of the farmhouse with their young family and are on hand day and night for their guests. They have lovingly created a space where they want their guests to ‘slow down, to take it easy, and to do less, but discover more whilst deeply enjoying every single minute’.

Fabio explained to me that they prefer to cater for unique, small, intimate weddings

We were shown to our beautifully decorated

rustic–chic, Tuscan wedding. This is mainly so

suite that consisted of a sitting room, bedroom

they can offer a unique home-made wedding

and bathroom – all decorated in a rustic Tuscan

feast on the lawns surrounding the property

While sitting around the breakfast table in

style – but also with some quirky touches

but also so that, in the event of foul weather,

Follinco, we met a couple who told us about

that wouldn’t be out of place in a trendy city

which happens sometimes, all your guests

the Le Marche region of Italy, which they

boutique hotel. This tricky mix of styles is

can be accommodated comfortably inside

described as, ‘Like Tuscany, but without the

difficult to pull off but Suzanne’s innate sense

the farmhouse. The country kitchen is again

tourists’. We decided to check this out as the

of style has created six unique, relaxed and fun

at the centre of this property, with a large

only downside to Tuscany is that you’re as likely

spaces to chill and enjoy. This style is replicated

kitchen table around which guests breakfast

to hear an American or Irish accent as you are

throughout the rest of the farmhouse and

on sumptuous fresh local produce, much of

an Italian one. English is spoken everywhere

outbuildings, with something charming and

which Fabio and Suzanne grow on their farm,

and while the food, the scenery, the towns and

unexpected around every corner.

including their own honey and their own wine.

architecture are quintessentially Italian, you do get a feeling that it’s very much a product, even if it is an exquisitely packaged and beautifully presented one. So we decided to head over to Le Marche to check out this off-the-grid, truly authentic Italian region.

Weddings Abroad I IWD Feature I 165

L

e Marche is an area as captivating as

The owners, Madelline and Tim, spent three

Another reason to visit this little gem is the

any you will find in Italy, and is one of

years painstakingly restoring this historic

town itself. A sleepy little town just 25 minutes

the very few places that has escaped

palazzo into a beautifully appointed boutique

from the coast, it is quintessentially Italian, with

mass tourism, despite its natural beauty.

hotel that retains all the authenticity and

narrow meandering cobbled lanes climbing to

The Italians describe it as, ‘all of Italy in one

character of the original building. Each of the

the dapple-shaded park at the top of the town,

region’, with its medieval hilltop towns full of

eight stunning bedrooms has been individually

where you can view the Sibillini mountains to

art and culture, amazing coastline with hidden

styled by Madelline, who has taken inspiration

the west and the Adriatic coast to the east. Pop

beaches, patchwork-quilt countryside, stunning

from the 5-star hotels she stayed in during her

into one of the two local bars or the café in the

mountain ranges within three national parks,

high-flying banking career in London and the

town and get a glimpse of real life that you

and a growing number of vineyards.

Far East. Everything from the contemporary

don’t find in Tuscany. If, like us, your Italian is

décor to the luxurious bed linen has been

minimal, you‘ll find the locals here are all fluent

We wanted to experience the smaller off-track

hand-picked to offer guests the ultimate

in the international language of hand signals,

villages, where very little English is spoken and

luxurious stay.

pointing and smiling.

conscious of our limited Italian. Realising we

The hotel interior is magnificent with its art

might need a little help, we were delighted to

deco cocktail bar, the 15th-century brick-

find a stunning boutique hotel in the town of

vaulted restaurant, and the plush Salone,

Montelparo that is owned and run by an English

where you can relax for afternoon tea or an

couple, who have realised their dream of

after-dinner drink. It’s outside, however, where

owning their own little slice of heaven in Italy.

the hotel really wows guests. The panoramic

Madelline and Tim, spent three years painstakingly restoring this historic palazzo into a beautifully appointed boutique hotel

tourists are few and far between, but we were

terrace offers some of the best views in town, where you can see the rolling hills and cypress

The Italians describe Le Marche as, ‘all of Italy in one region

trees leading across to the Adriatic Sea in the

Madelline and Tim have had the honour of

distance. Breakfast is served on this terrace,

hosting many weddings since they opened

where you can watch the morning sun cast its

and they can organise as much or as little of

golden light over the breath-taking landscape

your wedding as you would like them to. The

below. You can also dine here in the evening

ceremony can be performed in the town square

Boutique Hotel Leone is located in the

under the stars and listen to the sounds of the

in front of the church steps by the local mayor.

picturesque hillside town of Montelparo, under

locals working and living in the valley below.

You and your guests can then wind your way

half an hour’s drive from the Adriatic coast, in

The quiet and secluded private pool also takes

though the town, via one of the little bars,

the foothills of the Sibillini Mountains, which

in this beautiful view and is a perfect suntrap,

back to the hotel where your drinks’ reception

offers luxury accommodation and fine dining

where you can relax with a good book and a

would be held on the terrace or in the art deco

that includes all the Italian classics but with an

nice cool drink.

cocktail bar. The wedding banquet can then be

international flavour.

served in the 15th-century cellar restaurant or on the terrace as the sun sets, where you can then dance the night away under the stars.

Sounds idyllic, doesn’t it? www.hotelleonemarche.com

166 I IWD Travel I Weddings Abroad

THE MOMENT WHEN HAPPY EVER AFTER BEGINS

FLY DIR EC T F RO M DUBL IN

Start the most exciting chapter of your life with TUI. Choose to say ‘I do’ on a tropical beach in Mexico or looking out to the Mediterranean in Cyprus, Greece or Spain.

To book, call 1850 929 141, visit tuiholidays.ie or visit your local TUI Store.

TUI is a trading name of TUI Ireland Limited, a member of TUI Group, and is fully licensed and bonded by CAR T.O.021.

Love is in The Air In the Seychelles

Torsten Dickmann

I

n our frantic, modern world relaxation techniques invite us to close our eyes

unparalleled opportunities for sailing on bare-

and dream of a place where tired spirits can be refreshed. But why dream when

boat or skippered yacht, world class deep-sea

Seychelles is only hours away? Creation has blessed these friendly islands with

and fly-fishing, as well as a broad diversity of

perpetual summer, the space to breathe the purest air and room to unwind on the powder-

dive experiences for the novice and experienced

soft sand of endless beaches. Against the romantic backdrop of our diverse islands,

diver alike. From Mahé, principal island of the

scattered like pearls upon the warm, azure waters of the Indian Ocean, your yearning for

Seychelles, the nation’s islands extend 100km

the ultimate in beauty and tranquility will become reality.

Seychelles, made up of 115 pristine, tropical

endemic species of flora and fauna that are

islands, is a magnificent archipelago, containing

amongst the rarest on earth. Many endemic

the only mid-ocean granitic islands on the

and indigenous species can be discovered on

planet, that was certainly known to the early

the network of guided walks. The islands are

Arab sea-farers before being colonised by the

also home to two UNESCO World Heritage

French in 1770 and then by the British in 1814

sites: The Vallée de Mai, upon whose ancient

before becoming an independent republic

palms grows the wondrous Coco-de-Mer, and

north and 1000km in a glittering arc towards

within the Commonwealth in 1976.

fabled Aldabra, the largest raised atoll in the

the east coast of Africa. Between 15 minutes

world.

and 1 hour’s flight time from Mahé, several of

In

an

ecologically

compromised

168 I IWD Travel I The Seychelles

our select island getaways offer accommodation

world,

Seychelles offers sanctuaries for numerous,

Seychelles, made up of 115 pristine, tropical islands, is a magnificent archipelago,

Throughout the islands are to be found

in well-appointed lodges and resorts ranging

Torsten Dickmann

Chris Close

Torsten Dickmann

Raymond Sahuquet

Chris Close

from sumptuous five-star luxury to beach-side

will be as blissfully romantic and unique as you,

cottages with a natural and homely elegance.

in your wildest dreams, can conjure, allowing

Quietly stroll the Vallée de Mai where the

the memories of those special days to become

legendary Coco-de-mer nut grows high on

forever emblazoned in your hearts.

ancient palms. Dine tête à tête with your feet

The islands enjoy a rich variety of hotels and guesthouses, each with its own brand of

in the sand on uncrowded beaches or try your

welcome to seduce the visitor with the charms

hand at dancing the moutia, ancient dance of

and rhythms of an island lifestyle that are

slaves, whose sensuous rhythms beckon from

refreshingly authentic and with sights, sounds

the flicker of a beach fire beneath a lover’s

and flavours that are typically Creole.

moon.

The islands enjoy a rich variety of hotels and guest houses, each with its own brand of welcome

Whether in Seychelles for a wedding or honeymoon, make a rendezvous with destiny and set your own stage for the most romantic days of your life beneath swaying palms, alongside crystal waters fringed by silver-soft

Lay back and watch the days and nights slip ever so slowly by from within the luxurious cocoon of a dream island getaway

sands.

Sensual Seychelles has long been dubbed ‘the islands of love’. Home to the unique Vallée de

Sip

Mai, purported by many to be the site of the

backdrop of crimson sunsets. Visit the island of

exotic

tropical

cocktails

against

the So, come and savour the ultimate in tropical

original Garden of Eden, it is little wonder that

La Digue where time stands still and bicycles

romance! Be swept off your feet by the

lovers are inspired to take their vows and wed

and the ox-cart hold sway on the pathways to

breathtaking beauty of the world’s most

in this gentle and romantic atmosphere.

the dream beaches of Grand Anse and Source

stunning islands that offer you diversity, a

D’Argent. Or, simply lay back and watch the

carefree lifestyle and the services of dedicated

Marriage and/or honeymoon packages are

days and nights slip ever so slowly by from

professionals whose attention to detail will

offered by several leading travel agencies to

within the luxurious cocoon of a dream island

leave you with the freedom to enjoy the

ensure that your wedding day or honeymoon

getaway.

moments of a lifetime.

The Seychelles I IWD Travel I 169

The Seychelles The perfect place for your romantic escape.

Seychelles Tourist Office - UK & Ireland Ground Floor, 130-132 Buckingham Palace Road SW1W 9SA Tel: +44 (0) 207 730 0700 · seychelles@uksto.co.uk · www.seychelles.travel Photo: © Torsten Dickmann

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WEDDINGTRAVEL HONEYMOONS & WEDDINGS ABROAD Compiled by Alex Joyce

Marrakech

Reefs and Ruins in Belize

Marrakech is one of the most popular wedding–location destinations in the world and Royal Mansour the most extraordinary in that city. Owned by the King, the exquisite Royal Mansour was designed to regal standards as a showcase of the country. The ‘medina within the medina’ is made up of 53 individual multi-floor riads, imbued with tradition and Belize is small but incredibly diverse, with dense jungle to the west and Caribbean seas to the east. With more than 400 islands, the longest unbroken barrier reef in the western hemisphere, and 185 miles of coastline, it is a diver’s paradise. In this itinerary you’ll explore the Great Blue Hole, where a dive team will be waiting for you; you’ll spearfish for your lunch in the Turneffe Atoll, eating whatever you catch; dive incredible coral reefs, coming face-to-face with sharks; and you’ll enjoy lunches on hidden beaches. You’ll also fly to a luxury jungle lodge, visiting incredible Mayan ruins, caves and waterfalls en route.

artistic history whilst remaining contemporary in its facilities and service. Exquisite craftsmanship runs throughout the property, in combination with the location’s uniquely discreet and private aura. This is exemplified by a labyrinthine series of underground tunnels to each of the 53 riads that can be accessed only by the 500 staff, ensuring prompt and dedicated service. www.royalmansour.com

pelorusx.com/private-adventures/diving/belize-experience

Luxury... In the Palm of Your Hand If you’re thinking of heading to the exotic east on your honeymoon, make sure you pay Dubai a visit. Renowned as a luxury shopping destination with lively nightlife, it is also a place where you can unwind after the hectic wedding and just relax in ultimate luxury. One such place to relax is the Anantara The Palm Dubai Resort which is located on the worldfamous Palm Jumeirah, just off the coast of Dubai. It boasts 400 metres of private shoreline and panoramic views of the Arabian Gulf. Indulge in an exclusive beach escape, while still enjoying the excitements of the city. Float on water, with lagoon-access rooms and the UAE’s only over-water villas. Unwind with hammam rituals at our Palm Jumeirah hotel’s spa and enjoy the Thai-style luxury for which Anantara is known. Whether you want to spend your entire honeymoon here or use it as a stopping-off point on your honeymoon in Asia or Africa, for more information check out www.anantara.com/en/palm-dubai

Honeymoons I IWD Travel I 171

Let’s Talk Honeymoons Mark your marriage with a one-of-a-kind honeymoon with Hayes & Jarvis

If there’s ever a time to take a holiday where every little detail is of the absolute finest standard, it’s your honeymoon. Whether you want to celebrate getting married by relaxing on a beautiful beach in Thailand or discovering the wildlife at Kruger National Park, South Africa, Hayes & Jarvis honeymoon destinations are designed to leave you with memories that last a lifetime.

The Maldives The Maldives is the perfect luxury honeymoon destination. With over 1,000 idyllic islands, it boasts stunning lagoons, beautiful white-sand beaches, and dazzling underwater coral gardens. All-inclusive is definitely the way to go as it is a oneisland one-hotel concept.

A dolphin sunset cruise or a private sunset dinner on the beach can be the highlight of your honeymoon.

You can also combine your stay with another iconic destination. Spend a night or two in Dubai before or after your Maldives holiday; or, soak up a bit of the culture and history of Sri Lanka before relaxing on the white Maldivian sands with a cocktail in hand.

Mauritius Mauritius has all you could want in a honeymoon, from pristine beaches to exciting culture. It brings together a vibrant mix of Indian, French, Creole, and Chinese cultural influences. Famed for its pure shores, diverse culture, sugar-cane fields, as well as some of the finest resorts in the world, it’s easy to see why Mauritius is a popular honeymoon destination.

The flight time to Mauritius is approximately 11 and a half hours, so why not twin your holiday with a stay in South Africa, just four hours away from the island? From winelands to safaris, it offers the perfect contrast to your Mauritian oasis. Dubai is another great stopover destination where you can indulge in the vibrant city life before your relaxing escape to Mauritius.

SouthAfrica Start off your wedded bliss with a trip to stunning South Africa, where adventure greets you at every turn. In Cape Town, hike up Table Mountain for a panoramic view of the city. Venture on a safari to see the Big Five at Kruger National Park, watch penguins waddle onto the beach in Cape Town, voted best city in the world, and tour the vineyards in Cape Winelands; there’s something for everyone. South Africa gives you the chance to combine city, safari, sea and mountains all in one trip, making it a honeymoon to remember.

172 I IWD Travel I Honeymoons

Vietnam A trip to Vietnam allows you to experience Asia at its best.

Although many cultures have left their mark on the face of this beautiful country, it has a personality all to itself. For the full Vietnam experience, combine the laid-back life of sleepy Luang Prabang and Hoi An with the bustling metropolis of Hanoi and Saigon. Start your trip with a visit to Halong Bay that has been listed as a World Heritage site, thanks to its outstanding natural beauty, including the thousands of limestone islets that can be seen rising out of its clear waters. Take a cruise through the bay and prepare to be awed by its beauty. Then trade the tranquillity here for the hustle of Ho Chi Minh, formerly Saigon, the most populous metropolitan area in Vietnam and home to the fascinating Cu Chi tunnels, an immense network of connecting underground tunnels built during the war. The city buzzes with energy and you won’t be able to stop yourself from getting swept up in the excitement. Choose top notch eateries or dine from street stalls as you meander through the crowds.

Dominican Republic The Dominican Republic is a Caribbean honeymoon destination that has always been a popular choice, thanks to its stunning beaches and impeccable weather.

No matter when you visit, you are likely to be greeted with clear skies and warm sea air. The Dominican Republic offers you the idyllic beach vacation with turquoise water, inviting locals, and a relaxing atmosphere. A holiday to the Dominican Republic is still uncrowded, even on the most popular beaches, resorts are low-rise in that they are no higher than the palm trees, and streets are lined with small local cafes, bars and restaurants rather than international chains.

Visitors to this stunning Caribbean island can really experience something unique, a rare opportunity that may not last forever. Internationally known luxury resort destinations – Cap Cana, La Romana and Punta Cana – have picture-perfect beaches and every kind of activity and entertainment imaginable. Secrets Resorts & Spas combine world-class amenities with Unlimited-Luxury and adults-only fun for a honeymoon to remember.

Thailand Thailand can give you a romantic ambiance like no other destination. The beaches are some of the world’s best, and the amazing temples are not to be missed. Renowned for delicious food, warm hospitality and beautiful vistas, Thailand is also a snorkelling and diving paradise with crystal-clear seas and kaleidoscopic marine life waiting to be discovered beneath the surface. If you don’t want to settle for one location, experience more with some island hopping, with each island offering a brand new experience and unique sights: from Koh Samui for stunning temples and rainforest to Phuket for lazy days on palm-fringed beaches.

As market leaders we’ve been creating bespoke journeys for over 65 years. With so many destinations to choose from worldwide, the journey we care most about is the one that’s on your wish-list.

To talk to one of our specialists call 01-433 1020 or drop into the Hayes & Jarvis store on 18-19 Duke Street, Dublin 2.

Visit hayesandjarvis.ie to discover more amazing destinations.

Honeymoons I IWD Travel I 173

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Classic Dylan

WEDDINGTRAVEL HONEYMOONS & WEDDINGS ABROAD Compiled by Alex Joyce

Halong Bay Cruise

The largest and most luxurious cruising vessel to ever ply Halong Bay’s waters

has impressed its inaugural passengers with its elegant cabins, evening piano bar, expansive sun decks, spa and fine dining.

The first of two President Cruises’ ships took to the water on 15 November and Perfectly located in the heart of Amsterdam, The Dylan is housed in an exceptional 17th-

is the largest overnight ship to debut on the UNESCO World-Heritage-listed site.

century landmark on the Keizersgracht, one of Amsterdam’s most famous canals. The

In the elegant piano bar evoking the refined atmosphere of a 1920s New

hotel’s brilliant personal service, stylish rooms overlooking the canal, charming courtyard

York jazz café, a jazz duo stages performances nightly as guests are treated

garden and Michelin-starred Vinkeles Restaurant embody a design-lover’s paradise and an

to free-flowing after-dinner drinks. Acclaimed Vietnamese wellness group Kaia

oasis of calm after an energetic day of exploring the very best that the city has to display.

Spa offers indulgent treatments at the six-treatment-room spa. The vessel’s

Open all day, The Dylan’s Bar Brasserie OCCO showcases paramount quality, craftsmanship

fine-dining restaurant has unveiled an a la carte menu of delectable Japanese,

and service. A fusion of classic and contemporary design, the bar has a sultry-come-

Korean, and European-inspired dishes.

cosmopolitan aura. Over the sweeping marble bar hangs a striking architectural chandelier

A limousine transfer service connects Hanoi with Halong Bay on a new highway

from the black-beamed ceiling, and the room is equipped with elegant velvet sofas, from

that has slashed the drive time between the destinations in half, to two hours.

which to enjoy the bar’s seasonal cocktail menu that consists of Dutch-inspired signatures

Arriving passengers immediately embark the ship rather than waiting in a lounge.

as well as worldly classics – with a twist. www.dylanamsterdam.com

Visit www.presidentcruiseshalong.com

An Emerging Honeymoon Destination Oman is one of the lesser-known destinations on the Arabian Peninsula, but if you’re after something different for your honeymoon, while still experiencing a cultural feast in luxurious surroundings, Salalah, on the southern coast of Oman, could be for you. Famed for the riches of its frankincense groves, coconut-fringed beaches and a profusion of tropical greenery, Salalah offers intrepid travellers an emerging destination of breath-taking natural beauty.

by Anantara Al Baleed Resort Salalah luxury and brings a new level of allowing on, refinement to the regi over the discerning guests to disc Oman. unique charms of southern the airport, from km Located just 15 reach of easy the resort sits within abundance Salalah city centre and an of cultural treasures.

ntains and Guarded by indigo mou e waters of trimmed by the opal-blu

rt has been the Arabian Sea, the reso grandeur of le simp the designed with fortresses tal the region’s iconic coas façades Whitewashed mind. in the perfect and clean lines provide emark blue trad the to accompaniment ic lanterns Arab skies, with shimmering

ere as night transforming the atmosph ll enjoy an falls. During your stay, you’

ces, whether array of authentic experien mountains, it’s trekking through the

saluting the catching fish for dinner, or simply ion sess yoga sunset during a

nt villa into

slipping out of their beachfro the languid ocean.

Honeymoons I IWD Travel I 175

City Lovers Honeymoons Three Fabulous European Cities for lovers of Architecture

By Marcus Stewart

I

f your thinking of a city destination for your honeymoon or wedding abroad, you’re probably a fan of wonderful architecture, unless you just like to party. Of course, you could be a party animal who loves architecture but either way we’ve got three city honeymoon destinations where you can marvel at the architecture, take in the city and we’ve picked three architecturally beautiful hotels for your city pad. Remember, when sightseeing in a city to look up; most of the wonderful architecture is way above the eye-line

Copenhagen

Stay at The Nimb Hotel The Nimb Hotel is the perfect place to stay. In

the

custom-designed

internationally

iconic

contrast to the ultra-modern city, this ‘Scandi-

Nimb style, characteristic of ‘time and space

Copenhagen is a city of unconventional

chic meets Arabian nights’ hotel lies at the

luxury’. Featuring Italian marble stucco flooring,

and innovative architecture. The modern

heart of the famously charming Tivoli Gardens.

crystal chandeliers, Danish antiquities and

city planners have a strong focus on

A Moorish-styled palace with a striking Venetian

spinning wheels hung on walls, Nimb Hotel is a

sustainability using space and light in

marble façade, the interiors are impressed with

design–lover’s paradise.

combination with Danish attention to detail, which has placed Copenhagen as a world-leading city in contemporary architecture – an eye-opening visit.

Many of these striking buildings sit on the waterfront,

which

adds

to

their

appeal:

Copenhagen Opera House – considered one of the most modern opera buildings in the world; the Royal Library – known as the black diamond for its lopsided cubic shape and deep black façade; and Copenhagen International School – which integrates one of the city’s largest solar panels into a building.

176 I IWD Travel I Honeymoons

Dubrovnik

An architectural style unlike any of its other neighbouring cities along the Dalmatian coast, the UNESCO world heritage site of old-town Dubrovnik is easy to navigate.

Pile City Gate marks the entrance to Dubrovnik old town, connected to a wooden drawbridge that provided defence over a now dry moat, and features as the entrance to the King’s Landing in Game of Thrones.

Defending the Pile Gate, as well as the western sea approach, is the magnificent Bokar Fortress, designed and nearly completed in the 1460s. Almost perfectly cylindrical in shape, it is said to be the oldest casemented fort in Europe, and offers unparalleled views of the

Stay at Villa Orsula

Adriatic on a starry night. Other admirable crafts include:

Where to stay: Dubrovnik’s exquisite boutique

the Onofrio Fountain, which is lavishly lined by 16 water

retreat, Villa Orsula, is located just a five-minute

taps; and the baroque-style church of St. Blaise, the

walk away from the white-stoned world heritage site

patron saint of Dubrovnik, both with their own historical

of Dubrovnik old town. The architecturally adorned

and modern purposes to learn of.

1930s Mediterranean-inspired villa is made of eleven rooms and two suites of stylish décor, offering discreet luxury and personal service.

Lisbon

Architecture in Lisbon builds upon its common coin as ‘the sunny capital of Europe’. Portugal’s capital city is built on seven hills with the river

Stay at AlmaLusa Baixa Boutique hideaway AlmaLusa Baixa/Chiado, a 28-room

Within the most inviting setting comes the most enchanting of dining spots – Villa Orsula’s Victoria Restaurant is beyond picturesque. Situated amongst the seafront gardens and shaded by grape vines, guests are overwhelmed by the breathtaking views of the glimmering blue Adriatic Sea, forested Lokrum Island, and the local old town.

wooden staircase, whilst weathered flagstones and vault-style concrete walls frame the reception area.

townhouse hotel that’s tucked into a charming corner

The rooms are as serene as the square they look onto

of one of Lisbon’s most emblematic squares, Praca de

– guests can ogle the creamy façade of the City Hall

Muncipio. The 18th-century building, once the site of

and snap away at the iconic (and silent) passing trams.

Lisbon’s army arsenal, is bursting at the seams with

The square itself is dominated by the palatial City Hall,

original features. Moss-green tiles line the way on the

complete with elegant neoclassical façade.

Tagus flowing through its centre, and the sun is unusually reflected off the city’s white-tiled streets, allowing themes of luminosity, shade and shadow to act as artistic starting points for designers’ most enticing building creations.

The city’s many squares, ‘praças’, exhibit this beautifully, and are often host to a plentiful choice of coffee shops. A favourite is ‘Praça Do Comércio’, the largest of the city’s squares lined by bright yellow buildings.

Castelo de São Jorge is an 11th-century Moorish castle that sits in a citadel on a hilltop overlooking Lisbon.

Originally built to house military troops, it still retains 11 towers and is now an archaeological site with a permanent exhibition on Lisboa’s history, and a best-loved viewing point of the city.

Honeymoons I IWD Travel I 177

Abroad All

Fancy saying your vows abroad?

Claudia Gocoul takes a look at the pros and cons.

D

on’t you just wish there was a bridal version of A Place in the Sun: Home or Away, where you could test out a wedding at home and abroad before making your decision?

With more and more Irish couples looking to combine sun and sea with saying I do, we take a look at the pros and cons of saying your vows on vacation.

PRO: Duh - Destination

to have a small, intimate guest list when you’re hosting a

A destination wedding brings with it exotic romance that an

wedding away from home. TTYL, crazy Aunt Beth.

Irish venue can often only dream of. Don’t get us wrong, the Irish landscape is beautiful and we have an abundance

CON: The Guest List

of quirky, cute and even outright luxurious churches, castles

Whilst it’s great that you can narrow invites down to your

and hotels, but if it’s exotic you’re after, then you’re going

nearest and dearest, keep in mind that they may not all be

to have to go abroad. And why not? Who wouldn’t want to

in a position to make it to a wedding abroad – for various

spend a week (or two) soaking up the sun, topping up your

different reasons. From financial issues, to lack of holiday

tan and relaxing by the pool in the lead-up to their big day?

days and even ill health, switching to the sun may mean everyone you’d like to be there might not be able to make

PRO: The Guest List

it. Plan as far ahead as possible to allow guests to save and

Ah, the guest list, the thing that often causes the most

get organised.

arguments when planning a wedding. Whether it’s where to sit your divorced parents, how to tell your crazy Aunt Beth

For those who can’t make it, why not host a post-wedding

that she’s not invited or whether or not you’d like children

celebration when you get home. This can be as extravagant

involved, there are always going to be hiccups when it comes

or as low-key as you want – from a dinner party to a wedding

to compiling ‘the list’. Getting married abroad removes most,

video– and friends and family who missed out will love that

if not all of that stress. It’s somehow much more acceptable

you’ve thought of them.

178 I IWD Travel I Weddings Abroad

CON: Culture Shock

PRO: Cash Flow PRO: Stress Less Tying the knot at home requires a lot of planning, as does getting wed abroad. However, when you’re getting married abroad, most of the menial tasks are outsourced. Resorts often offer ready-made packages whereby everything from your flowers to your cake is organised for you – leaving your hands free for a cocktail by the pool. The weeks and months leading up to a wedding can be extremely stressful, causing a strain on both the bride and groom, so having a built-in holiday to look forward to helps to alleviate some of the madness.

Not too long ago in Ireland, the bill was left in the very capable hands of the couple’s parents.

However,

post–Recession,

that

tradition

has changed dramatically, with the couple themselves covering the cost of celebrations.

This may be viewed as a little selfish but whilst getting married abroad costs more for guests, it costs considerably less for the bride and groom - winning! Smaller numbers, cheaper set-price packages and less freedom to go wild on unnecessary extras such as party favours and photo booths mean that, more often than not, it’s cheaper to get married abroad.

When visiting a different country for an event as momentous as your wedding, it’s extremely important to take into consideration cultural differences. Whilst it’s not unusual to hear of Irish weddings running into the early hours of the morning, many venues abroad will have a midnight curfew. Be sure to check this well in advance with your venue to give you time to explore licence-extension options (which will cost extra). Also, if you’re conducting your ceremony in a church, speak to some locals so that you know the unwritten rules. Often your shoulders will need to be covered, meaning that a sheer Zuhair Murad gown might not be an ideal choice. You don’t want to be banned

CON: The Language Barrier It’s a simple one, not to be overlooked. When

from your own wedding for flashing too much flesh.

dealing with local vendors, it helps if you speak the lingo. Your wedding day is one day that you don’t want any confusion over or miscommunication about. A solution to this common issue (if budget permits) is to hire a local, reliable wedding planner. Letting a professional deal with the details will ensure nothing is overlooked and your day runs as

CON: Red Tape Getting

married

abroad

is

completely

smoothly as you deserve it to..

PRO: Insta Perfection

achievable: people do it every day. However,

Think of the ‘gram… Once your wedding day

that doesn’t mean it’s always easy. Legal

is over, all you’ll have left is memories, photos

requirements change in every country. France,

and a hubby, of course. A wedding abroad will

for example has residency requirements, so

ensure your pictures are Pinterest-perfect.

you’ll have to do your research well in advance

Think about it, no risk of the bridal party getting

to ensure everything is up to scratch and fully

drenched or swept away by the wind, just blue

legal. Be sure to secure extra copies of your

skies and sandy beaches. When booking a

marriage licence; you’ll need it over the years

photographer, be sure to ask for pictures of

and sometimes a quick jaunt to Cyprus to pick

previous weddings to ensure your style matches

up paperwork isn’t exactly practical. Don’t

there’s. Well in advance of the wedding, touch

let legalities put you off though – you could

base with inspo pictures and a shot list – that

always opt for a ceremony abroad with the civil

way, you can ensure everyone is on the same

ceremony at home to avoid any legal issues.

page and avoid any disappointment.

Weddings Abroad I IWD Travel I 179

Honeymoon on the Edge

SM

W

hen it comes to honeymoons, they can sometimes be an afterthought following all the wedding preparation and planning. With many people not considering whether their wedding day falls during the rainy season at their dream destination or if that must-see attraction is accessible at that time of year, this dream trip can be missed without an expert travel agent on hand to guide and look after you along the way. This is where Platinum Travel can help you tailor-make a unique honeymoon, just for you.

your lives as a married couple on a luxurious honeymoon cruise, where the journey is just as memorable as the destination.

Whether you are looking for rest and relaxation in a romantic setting for your first holiday as newlyweds, or perhaps a new adventure to tick off your bucket list, we’ve got the world covered. The Caribbean is a classic choice for honeymooners looking for idyllic beaches and crystal-clear waters coupled with an infectious

The good news is that these days, most

excellent value, you can visit several places that

laid-back

places are accessible on almost any budget.

you would never think of visiting on a holiday

something a little more adventurous on their

atmosphere.

For

couples

after

Tailormade and multi-centre honeymoons are

while only having to unpack once.

honeymoon an Alaskan cruise is a great option – full of wildlife and jaw-dropping scenery. For

more popular than ever, with a rising number of couples opting for a cruise as part of their

After your big day, what could be more special

something a little closer to home, choose from a

honeymoon. While cruises not only provide

and relaxing than a honeymoon at sea? Start

selection of European cruises, which are perfect

180 I IWD Feature I Honeymoon on the Edge

for shorter breaks to a variety of destinations

One of the latest editions to the market is the

Looking for the perfect place for a pre-

including the Mediterranean, Scandinavia and

stunning Celebrity Edge . Celebrity Edge

SM

dinner tipple? Our range of bars and lounges

the Baltics.

changes everything. The way you experience

provide the perfect places to relax and enjoy

SM

a lively ambiance. On Celebrity Edge

SM

One of the best things about a honeymoon

you can experience dining like never

cruise is that it requires very little organisation

before with the introduction of Eden.

on your part, which after all the planning

The Eden Restaurant is a place where

for the big day will no doubt come as great

dining is taken to new and exciting

news. Simply pick your dream destination (or

places. It features a lively, open air

destinations!) and we’ll organise the world-

kitchen and menus that deliver sensory

class entertainment, food and accommodation

and

on board. From relaxing by the pool, having a

performance artists called Edenists. Let

romantic picnic at The Lawn Club or enjoying

your inhibitions go and set your senses

a blissful couples treatment at the spa, there

free with innovatively mouth-watering

are a number of ways you can enjoy quality

experiential

dishes

served

by

specialties inspired by nature. Dinner at the world; the way you connect with the

Eden Restaurant isn’t a meal – it’s a unique,

ocean; the way you play, dine and unwind at

personal culinary journey that transports you

sea. Revolutionary on every level, she’s the

through Eden itself. Something that must be

ship that’s setting a new standard of luxury and

experienced to be believed!

innovation at sea. From the incredible Magic Carpet – the world’s first cantilevered, floating platform that reaches heights of 13 storeys above sea level – to the private plunge pools in the new Edge Villas which are up to three SM

times the size of standard cabins; the way you cruise will never be the same again.

Food is one of life’s greatest pleasures, so delicious gourmet dining comes as standard on your Celebrity cruise. Celebrated restaurants

Through teaming up with some of the

and dining venues feature a variety of

world’s

extraordinary ways to enjoy the best cuisine at

created accommodation that has never been

sea. Celebrity Edge offers a diverse range of

experienced at sea before. Onboard Celebrity

foodie delights, from innovative sushi to rustic

Edge discover the Infinite Balcony – touch a

time together on board as a newly married

Italian dishes. With a variety of complimentary

button and your entire living space becomes

couple. Here at Platinum Travel we believe that

dining venues included in the cost of your

the balcony letting you walk right out to the

everyone deserves a little bit of modern luxury.

cruise, or for a truly spectacular culinary

water’s edge. What could be more romantic

Sit back, relax and let us do the work matching

experience, try one of the many speciality

than sitting on your infinite balcony watching

you with your perfect honeymoon.

restaurants.

the sun go down with the one you love?

SM

best

designers,

Celebrity

Cruises

SM

Platinum Travel are a licensed and bonded travel agent specialising in tailormade honeymoons all over the world. We take all the stress and hassle away from the client and plan every moment of their trip to make it their dream holiday. From luxury cruises to USA fly-drives, stunning Indian Ocean beaches to Safari adventures, we are here to look after you. Contact one of our team at Platinum Travel – ‘your continental concierge’ on honeymoons@platinumtravel.ie or call 01 8535000.

Platinum Travel, “Your Continental Concierge” We specialise in tailor-made and bespoke holidays worldwide.

Call now on 01 853 5000 or email info@platinumtravel.ie www.platinumtravel.ie

www.flydriveusa.ie

Platinum Travel are licenced by the Commission for Aviation Regulation TA 0634

Honeymoon on the Edge I IWD Feature I 181

At Platinum Travel we design your trip, tailored to you, to match your interests, your tastes and your budget, and create your perfect holiday always with quality and you in mind Book any Celebrity Cruise with Platinum Travel before February 28th 2019 to receive $50 on board credit.

Call now 01-8535000 PARTNER LOGO HERE or email honeymoons@platinumtravel.ie

THE WORLD IS OPEN. THE SALE IS ON. STATEROOM SAVE UPTO €840 PER PLUS FREE DRINKS PLUS 50% OFF & FREE SOFT DRINKS PACKAGE FOR ADDITIONAL GUESTS What if you could explore lush South American jungles, Caribbean coral reefs, Chinese temples, or Alaskan gold-rush towns in ways that depart far from the expected? With our latest offer, there are no ‘ifs’ about it — you can! Book an eligible Ocean View stateroom or above from 15 November 2018 – 4 March 2019 on select sailings departing

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TO OPEN UP YOUR WORLD, BOOK TODAY. Termsand andconditions conditionsapply: apply:This Thispromotion promotionapplies appliestotonew newbookings bookingsofofan aneligible eligibleOcean OceanView Viewstateroom stateroomand andabove aboveon onselected selectedsailings sailingsdeparting departingbetween between99December December2018 2018and and11 11 May May 2020 2020 (“Eligible (“EligibleBookings”) Bookings”)and andbooked bookedbetween between **Terms the15 15November November 2018 2018 and and 4 March 2019 (“Promotion Period”).

Period”). For Open to bookings made via UK travel agents or the Celebrity Cruises UK office via celebritycruises.co.uk only.applicable For general booking conditions including advice on ATOL/ the general booking conditions including advice on ATOL/ ABTA protection, full or promotion terms and conditions, ships and sail dates, full promotion combinability ABTA protection, full promotion and conditions,please applicable sail dates, full 2019-2020 promotion brochure, combinability cancellation chargesyour & other information, refer Celebrity Cruises 2019-2020 brochure, visit restrictions, cancellation chargesterms & other information, refer ships to theand Celebrity Cruises visit restrictions, celebritycruises.co.uk or contact travel agent. RCLplease Cruises Ltdtot/athe Celebrity Cruises (company number 07366612) celebritycruises.co.uk or contact your travel agent.

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YOUR SPECIAL OCCASION IS OUR MAIN EVENT.

Your wedding day is perhaps the most significant day of your life.

You want everything to be perfect and when you book your reception at Hilton Malta, we will make sure your day is truly unforgettable.

You can also hold your civil ceremony at our beautiful venue.

Everything, in other words to make your big day even more special.

For additional information visit Malta.Hilton.com

HILTON MALTA

Portomaso | St. Julian's, Malta | STJ4012 | +356 21 383 383 | reservations.malta@hilton.com

Venues Leading Wedding

Venues

Leading Wedding

Choosing the right reception venue should be an easy task as there are so many venues available, and there is one to suit every taste and budget. You can hold your reception in a grand castle, a family run boutique hotel, a plush restaurant, a private club, a country pub or even in your back garden, whichever takes your fancy. We take a look at some of the leading Irish venues who specialise in weddings.

All of these venues will be only too willing to give you an exclusive tour of their venue and you’ll be warmly received and pleasantly surprised. As these are Ireland’s favourite wedding venues you should pop in sooner rather than later to make sure they are free on your preferred date.

Annebrook House Hotel Situated in the heart of Mullingar, the Award Winning Four-Star Annebrook House Hotel presents a spectacular fusion of 17th century heritage with ultimate modern styling…let us be your “something old, something new.” Whether it’s a grand affair or an intimate reception, the style of your wedding is entirely up to you, catering for 30-280 guests.

We pride ourselves in offering a very personalised service from the initial booking stage all the way through to your dream day. Sumptuous food combined with top-class service are the main ingredients of any good wedding and the Annebrook House Hotel delivers both these elements seamlessly. Our friendly and approachable service will ensure your wedding day is everything you want it to be and more.

Ciara and the Wedding Team at the Annebrook constantly strive to keep up to date with current trends to ensure every couples day is as memorable and as individual as you are.

Come along to our next Winter Wedding Showcase on Sunday 6th January 2019, 5-8pm to find our how Annebrook House Hotel could be your dream venue.

For enquires contact Ciara on events@annebrook.ie | www.annebrook.ie

Ballymascanlon House Hotel A truly stunning Wedding Venue located in 130 acres of majestic parklands and surrounded by mature grounds and stunning vistas, the Ballymac (as it is fondly known by one and all) has been a favourite wedding choice for 60 years. The fact that the children and even grandchildren of couples who got married here also choose Ballymascanlon House Hotel for their own weddings speaks volumes. Our dedicated wedding team is available to assist you with all your wedding arrangements. We work with each couple to design a wedding package to suit their taste and budget.

The Garden room catering up to 300 guests boasts exquisite chandeliers, which frame the high ceilings and add a sense of timeless elegance with uplighters that bring a delignate atmosphere to the room. We also accommodate for civil ceremonies. At Ballymascanlon House Hotel we offer a total of 97 bedrooms. In the Victorian house, there are 6 of the original luxuriously designed rooms dating back to the 19th century. One of which includes the spectacular Duchess Suite with its own living space that overlooks the prize-winning Gardens. Facilities include a Leisure Club and Golf Course and fun outdoor activities for adults and children.

The Ballymascanlon House Hotel, Golf and Leisure Club, County Louth.

Tel: 042 9358200 Web: www.ballymascanlon.com

Ballyseede Castle Every wedding deserves a Castle. Experience a unique day with a castle wedding in Kerry’s only castle hotel. As a family owned and operated hotel you will experience professional and friendly service.

At Ballyseede Castle we make your dreams come true. We have a wonderful choice of banqueting suites as well as beautiful civil ceremony rooms. Catering for only one wedding per day Ballyseede Castle allows you to celebrate in style and grandeur withy your family and friends. From drinks in our formal gardens to dancing the night away within the castle walls to a post wedding barbecue on the terrace, Ballyseede Castle is a gem in the crown of the wedding world. Choose from a variety of options to create your unique and distinct menu offering restaurant quality taste and service.

Ballyseede Castle will provide you with a fantastic day and memories to last a lifetime. Call in and visit us, we will be happy to show you around.

Visit our website www.ballyseedecastle.com or call us on 066 7125799 to speak to one of our wedding planners.

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Packages from

€62 per perso

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WEDDING SHOWCASE SUNDAY 6TH JAN 2019 1pm - 4pm WEDDING FAYRE SUNDAY 27TH JAN 2019 1pm - 5pm Set in 130 acres of majestic parkland in the Cooley Peninsula and surrounded by mature gardens, the Ballymascanlon is a family run Country House Hotel with a long tradition of hosting Weddings.

Located only one hour from both Belfast and Dublin.

To arrange a viewing, please contact one of our dedicated Wedding Co-ordinators on +353 42 9358200. E: weddings@ballymascanlon.com CARLINGFORD ROAD (R173), DUNDALK, COUNTY LOUTH. A91 PF57 WWW.BALLYMASCANLON.COM

Venues

Leading Wedding

Bellingham Castle Bellingham Castle is an elegant and spacious 17th Century Irish castle and an exclusive wedding venue in Ireland’s North East only 45 minutes from Dublin and 1 hour from Belfast.

Located in the heart of the medieval village of Castlebellingham in Co Louth and approached via a private, tree-flanked driveway , Bellingham Castle is the centrepiece of an historic 17 acre estate. Set on the banks of the River Glyde, our estate includes a weir and man-made river island with footbridges, mature trees and formal lawns and gardens. Our spacious drawing rooms and bars and the elegant Bute Suite are ideal for private weddings and civil ceremonies while our nineteen bedrooms are rich in history, style and comfort.

Bellingham Castle is available exclusively to you and your guests We are now open for viewings by appointment. Please contact us to arrange a time that suits you.

Bellingham Castle, Castlebellingham, Co Louth, Ireland t: +353 (0) 42 937 2176 | e: info@bellinghamcastle.ie | t: @Bellingh4m | w: www.bellinghamcastle.ie

Bellinter House Situated only 30 minutes from Dublin, Bellinter House is renowned as one of the most unique wedding venues in Ireland. This stunning 18th century georgian manor is set on banks of the River Boyne. Located in County Meath, with sweeping lawns, ancient trees and secluded spots for you to explore, Bellinter House displays a distinctive romantic ambiance which cannot be replicated anywhere else.

Awarded recently as the ‘Best Exclusive Wedding Venue in Ireland’, this property celebrates a mixture of unique Georgian features and contemporary arts which will create a lasting impression on all who experience it.

Why not see for yourself by arranging a viewing, with the team at Bellinter House by calling 046 9030900 or emailing events@bellinterhouse.com. www.bellinterhouse.com

BrookLodge & Macreddin Village The Perfect Venue, Whatever the Season… Hidden in a secluded Wicklow Valley, less than an hour’s drive from South Dublin, lies BrookLodge & Macreddin Village, a luxurious 4 Star Wedding Venue. Situated in the heart of Macreddin Village, BrookHall is a dedicated wedding venue that is home to; The River Room, which can seat up to 200 diners, a Mezzanine Bar, a dedicated reception area, en-suite bedrooms with French windows and a swimming pool. The privacy of BrookHall will provide relaxed surroundings for couples and their guests to make their day uniquely special and memorable for years to come. For those of you lucky enough to be getting married on a balmy summer’s day or evening, five double doors leading onto south facing decking overlooking Ballycreen Brook, will afford the perfect setting for showcasing the glamour of your wedding day. And for winter weddings, a great stone fireplace at either end of the room will guaranteea truly warm and romantic atmosphere.

Macreddin Chapel – is our very own private and unique ceremony venue which seats up to 140 guests and is conveniently situated on the grounds just across the Village green. Macreddin Chapel is approved by the HSE for Civil Marriages and can also be used for a simple but intimate blessing.

BrookLodge & Macreddin Village, County Wickow, Ireland T: 0402 36444 E: weddings@brooklodge.com

Cabra Castle It’s always a special occasion at Cabra Castle Hotel - the most important day of your life deserves the professionalism & experience of the banqueting team at Cabra Castle. With only one wedding per day you are assured of the attention required to make your day a success.

An elegant 18th century residence, surrounded by idyllic, picturesque parkland and Dún Na RÍ forest park, sets the scene in which to capture forever the most romantic moments of your dream day.

The castle interior with it’s beautifully appointed reception rooms,, hand painted ceilings and collection of exquisite antiques offer a unique setting for your guests to explore and enjoy.

And what better way to end the evening than to adjourn to what is fast becoming known as the most romantic bridal suite in the country. The opulent surrounds of the newly refurbished bridal suite boast 900 sq. foot with plush furnishings and ornate decor, private bar and Jacuzzi bath, ensuring relaxation is the perfect end to a magical day. Cabra Castle Kingscourt, Co. Cavan, Ireland.

Tel: 042 - 9667030 Fax: 042 - 9667039 Email: sales@cabracastle.com Website: www.cabracastle.com

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A Dream Venue only 30 minutes from Dublin

Bellinter House, Navan, Co.Meath, Ireland T: 046-9030900 E: events@bellinterhouse.com W: www.bellinterhouse.com

Venues

Leading Wedding

Castle Leslie Estate A truly private and stunningly beautiful rural escape in the Irish countryside, Castle Leslie Estate in Monaghan is a magical setting for your special wedding celebration. Nestled on 1,000 acres of undulating Irish countryside, the Estate is dotted with ancient woodlands and glittering lakes providing a unique setting for timeless wedding memories. In the hands of its founding family since the mid 17th Century, the Estate is steeped in history and provides an incredibly romantic and unique atmosphere for your special day. Located in the village of Glaslough, Co. Monaghan, the Estate is only 80 minutes from Dublin, 60 minutes from Belfast and a million miles from anywhere...

The character and charm can only be felt, not described, at Castle Leslie Estate; therefore they invite you to come and experience it for yourself and look forward to welcoming you to sample their renowned hospitality.

So arrange a private viewing now.

Contact 047 88100, email events@castleleslie.com or visit www.castleleslie.com

Clanard Court Hotel The Clanard Court Hotel, an award-winning four star wedding hotel, is one of Kildare’s leading wedding venues set amid landscaped gardens and provides the perfect scenic setting to make your day truly unforgettable.

Our ‘one Wedding per day’ policy, dedicated Wedding Coordinator, attention to detail, superb food, stunning décor and excellent service mean that your special day will be everything you dreamed….and more. As a family run hotel, we pride ourselves on offering each couple personalised attention to ensure every aspect of their special day captures the essence of their union.

By candlelight, the romance of our Fitzgerald Ballroom will have your guests truly lost for words. Overlooking our Garden Terrace, the Ballroom boasts stunning crystal chandeliers and floor to ceiling windows that allow a view and access to our beautiful private gardens. We even have our very own resident Alpacas to provide a fun backdrop for a wedding shot with a difference!

The Clanard Court offers All Inclusive wedding packages which can be tailored to suit your desires. No stone will be left unturned and our Wedding Coordinator will ensure that your Wedding leaves an everlasting memory for you and your guests. Tel: 059 8640666. www.clanardcourt.ie

Coast Hotel and Resorts From the moment you step onto the red carpet, our dedicated team of professionals at Coast Hotels & Resorts will endeavour to make your day special from start to finish.

We have two beautiful hotels in two stunning coastal locations in County Wexford - Rosslare Strand and Kilmore Quay.

Located only 5 minutes from the beach is the stylish and contemporary Coast Rosslare Strand. With 32 chic and comfortable rooms ranging from Deluxe Doubles right up to Superior Suites with Sea Views to the large Function and Civil Ceremony rooms, we have everything to make your special day perfect.

With the backdrop of the harbour and the rolling hills, Coast Kilmore Quay is a magical boutique setting for your special day. With 10 luxury bedrooms and dedicated function room, it’s the perfect location for an intimate gathering of friends and family.

At Coast Hotels & Resorts, we cater for only one wedding per day to ensure that we give you the service and attention you deserve on your wedding day.

Speak to us to arrange a tour of our hotel, function and civil ceremony rooms. Your journey begins here.

E: events@coasthotelsandresorts.com T: 053 913 2010 Rosslare Strand T: 053 914 8641 Kilmore Quay www.coasthotelsandresorts.com

Dunboyne Castle Hotel Dunboyne Castle Hotel & Spa is one of Ireland’s leading and most popular wedding venues. Set within 21 acres of mature, formal gardens, which surround the beautifully restored manor house, this is a magical setting for a wedding.

For brides and grooms, the Bridal Suite at Dunboyne Castle Hotel & Spa has been featured in Social & Personal and its recognition is well deserved. Its opulence and style makes for an ideal first night.

Renowned for the quality of food and service, it is easy to see why this is such a sought after venue, yet Dunboyne Castle Hotel & Spa is competitively priced. Special mid-week and weekend wedding packages are available. A complimentary bridal package includes: Red carpet on arrival; champagne for the bride and groom; complimentary overnight accommodation in the bridal suite for the bride and groom, with a champagne breakfast; special accommodation rates for guests; landscaped gardens for photographs; complimentary hire of the ballroom; candles on the tables; personalised menu cards; cake stand; and a professional wedding team to help you every step of the way.

To plan your special day and book your date, call 01 8013500 or visit www.dunboynecastlehotel.com

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EXPERIENCE

WEDDINGS AT D U N B OY N E C A S T L E

Making Moments Memorable For further information please contact: +353 1 8013500 or events@dunboynecastlehotel.com Dunboyne Castle Hotel & Spa, Dunboyne, Co. Meath, A86 PW63.

www.dunboynecastlehotel.com

Venues

Leading Wedding

Farnham Estate DAY FOR PERFECTION Situated just 3km from Cavan Town, the 16th Century Farnham Estate is a magical setting and an ideal venue for your wedding reception.

Few settings are as romantic and as beautiful as Farnham Estate Spa & Golf Resort. Once experienced, never to be forgotten, and that makes it the perfect venue for one of the most memorable occasions of all. A wedding at Farnham Estate is a marriage of style, luxury and flawless service, everything a bride and groom could wish for can be found right here at Farnham Estate.

Farnham Estate Golf & Spa Resort, Farnham Estate, Co Cavan, Ireland T: 049 437 7700, www.farnhamestate.ie, weddings@farnhamestate.ie

The Four Seasons Hotel Carlingford You Chose Love, You Chose Forever, now it’s time to choose your Venue.

Set in the historic village of Carlingford between the mountains and the sea, the newly designed 4* Four Seasons Hotel & Spa, Carlingford provides a truly idyllic setting for your wedding. It has unveiled a superb redesign including a beautiful wedding suite, the new Luxe Spa, boutique styled bedrooms and more. In this Medieval Heritage setting you will find historic details and rustic surroundings to create a magically romantic moment for timeless photographs. This is the ultimate destination for romance, culture and elegance. Their expert wedding dream team, will help make any wedding the celebration of a lifetime, whether it is a private moment or with hundreds in attendance. The Grand Summer Ballroom has detailed Georgian ceilings, striking crystal chandeliers, floor to ceiling cut glass mirror and lush carpet and the balcony boasts breathtaking views across the bay and Cooley Mountains. Experience peace and tranquillity in the new Luxe Spa pre or post your wedding day with their new Bridal specials.

Wedding Fayre on the 13th January, 2019 1-5pm with Canapes and Bubbles on arrival. You have to see it to believe it.

For more information or to book a private show around please email events@fshc.ie or call on +353 (0)42 937 3530. www.4seasonshotelcarlingford.ie.

Glenview Hotel There are weddings ….. and then there are the Glenview Weddings…

The multiple award winning Glenview Hotel offers all those special touches that you have dreamed of to bring to life your most magical day. Set in the stunning Glen of the Downs, the hotel and gardens surpasses all your expectations From outdoor ceremonies by a babbling brook to stunning drinks receptions set in the manicured gardens followed by a 5 course sumptuous dinner with dancing in the elegant Glenview Suite, the hotel has it all.

With our renowned service and Rachel, our personal wedding coordinator, we are here make your dream come true.

T: 01 274 0080 E: sayido@glenviewhotel.com W: www.glenviewhotel.com

The Hamlet Court Hotel As a family owned hotel, the Hamlet Court Hotel prides itself on offering a unique destination and perfect wedding venue for one of lifes most momentuous days, your wedding day. The key to a flawless occasion lies in attention to detail. Your wedding reception will be celebrated your way, with their distinct and elegant style. The Hamlet Court Hotel are committed to making your wedding day one of the best days of your life, offering a first class menu and impeccable service. Their Wedding co-ordinator will assist you every step of the way to your perfect day and will offer advice and recommendations on every aspect, from your wedding dress to florists, churches to bands and everything in between. John O Neill, proprietor takes pride in attending every wedding and personally welcoming the bridal party to the hotel and the grand entrance to the reception. The Hamlet Court Hotel have been honoured and privaleged to be part of so many magnificent weddings and have amazing testimonials to verify them.

For wedding enquiries please contact Sharon or Sheila on 046-9541200 . email sharon@thehamlet.ie or sheila@thehamlet.ie web: www.thehamlet .ie

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Our 5 star reviews say it all, our amazing staff and service make dreams come true and ensure you have the best day of your life.

Contact sheila@thehamlet.ie 046 9541200

www.thehamlet.ie @TheHamletCourt

@the_hamlet_court_hotel

Venues

Leading Wedding

The Johnstown Estate A newly refurbished 4-star-deluxe resort, The Johnstown Estate is filled with history, character and warmth.

Their wedding team has welcomed hundreds of couples through the fine Georgian doors and find it’s the little details which make a wedding personal to the happy couple and their guests.

The newly reimagined Grand Ballroom has a large foyer and a private entrance leading to a uniquely picturesque, walled wedding garden. This beautiful, enclosed garden is also a favourite spot to exchange vows or host drinks … for those couples lucky enough to catch a radiant Irish summer day.

Show stopping food delivered with passion is also The Johnstown Estate’s calling card. And after a whirlwind day of celebration, couples can relax in the stunning and luxurious 3-room Lady Margaret Suite in the manor house.

Only 35 minutes from Dublin’s city centre, amidst 120 acres of fields and forest, The Johnstown Estate has 120 guest bedrooms and 40 two-bedroom lodges. For those who might like to make it a weekend affair, there is an 18-room Elemis spa, a leisure centre and two fantastic restaurants. Tel: 046 9540000 or email weddings@ thejohnstownestate.com

Kilronan Castle Estate & Spa Kilronan Castle is a stunning venue for your luxury wedding celebration. The romantic setting and breathtaking views are matched by creative menus and impeccable service. This will truly be the luxury castle wedding day you have dreamed of... Every bride wants her wedding to be as memorable and magical as it possibly can be and at Kilronan Castle, the setting couldn’t be more perfect. The Grand Ballroom can hold numbers from 100 to 350 & with its high wooden panelled walls & rich colour schemes of burgundy & gold it is a perfect location for your Wedding Banquet. They can tailor make packages to suit all budgets.

Nestled in the woods, overlooking the commanding beauty of Lough Meelagh, this serene Roscommon location is the quintessential Castle wedding venue.

For more information on this magnificent Castle venue please contact a member of the dedicated Kilronan Castle sales team on 071 96 18000 or email enquiries@kilronancastle.ie

The K Club The K Club is the most stunning location in the country to host a wedding. Your special day deserves a special venue and The K Club really has it all. Located in the pretty village of Straffan, Co. Kildare, and on the banks of the River Liffey, the hotel is surrounded by 550 acres of mature woods, parkland and magnificent formal gardens – perfect for your wedding photographs. Dating back to 1832, Ireland’s first AA Five Red Star property is the original home of classic Irish hospitality and offers a host of opulent facilities to make wedding dreams come true. The original house, Straffan House, has been sympathetically restored to its former glory and now boasts 140 bedrooms and suites which are individually appointed to the highest standard. The resort can cater for large and lavish weddings or more intimate affairs, from just 14 people in the Pantheon Suite right up to 300 guests in the Legacy Suite.

Facilities include a Resort Spa, two championship golf courses, fishing on the River Liffey, lots of dining options and fun outdoor activities for adults and children. The K Club is also delighted to cater for outdoor weddings and civil ceremonies. The K Club, Straffan, Co. Kildare. Tel: 01 6017200 Web

The Lord Bagenal Inn The Lord Bagenal Inn prides itself on providing a personal and exclusive wedding service specifically with you in mind. Booking your wedding with The Lord Bagenal Inn guarantees you an experienced team and dedicated Wedding consultant. Offering you the flexibility to plan and organise Your Wedding Your Way you can avail of their Wedding Package at €39pp or use the Menu Selector to create your own unique wedding package. The Marina Room with its spacious, bright, classic décor caters for 280 guests.

Overlooking the beauty of the River Barrow, the hotel encapsulates the peace and tranquillity of this stunning backdrop with Wedding photographs capturing everlasting memories to treasure forever. For the more intimate of celebrations, the stylish yet contemporary Waterfront comfortably accommodates up to 70 family and friends. Civil Ceremonies on site in The Gallery, Marina Room or on the terrace outside.

Whether your wedding is a traditional affair or a more relaxed informal gathering The Lord Bagenal Inn has something for you. www.lordbagenal.com Tel: 0599 774000

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Your Wedding Your Way The Lord Bagenal Inn, a family run four star award winning venue in the heart of the South East.

Lord Bagenal Inn Leighlinbridge, Co.Carlow Phone: 00 353 (0)59 9774000 www.lordbagenal.com

Venues

Leading Wedding

The Lodge at Ashford Castle Set within the beautiful Ashford Estate with spectacular views of Lough Corrib, it’s hard to imagine a more romantic setting for your special day. Situated on the outskirts of the charming village of Cong, in the heart of Mayo, The Lodge at Ashford Castle will provide the fairy-tale day of your dreams. As part of the Red Carnation Hotel Collection, The Lodge embraces the philosophy of ‘no request is too large, no detail too small’. Whether you desire an intimate celebration with close friends and family, or favour a more elaborate affair, The Lodge offers a choice of exceptional spaces to really set the scene. Enjoy al fresco drinks on the lawn overlooking Lisloughrey Pier and dine in the elegance of the Harbour Room with its sparkling chandeliers and panoramic vista. Expect the finest cuisine using ingredients from artisan suppliers throughout the Connemara, Mayo and Galway regions and at the end of a perfect day, their sixty four sumptuous rooms and suites will accommodate your guests in style. Providing the perfect backdrop for wedding photographs, the estate offers plenty of activities to keep your guests entertained –the perfect excuse to stay longer! For a wedding unique to you contact E: reception@thelodgeac.com W: www.TheLodgeac.com Tel: 094 9545400

Markree Castle Introducing the ultimate exclusive wedding destination Markree Castle Markree Castle Sligo is an exclusive private hire wedding venue, which re-opened in 2017 following a €12 million renovation that lasted two years. The impressive 17th Century Gothic castle in Co. Sligo joins Ballyseede Castle, Bellingham Castle and Cabra Castle in the Corscadden family’s exclusive hotel and venue portfolio; “Romantic Castles of Ireland”.

Markree Castle Sligo is a fairy-tale castle of such beauty that it is said to have inspired the hymn “All Things Bright and Beautiful”. For the last three decades the majestic castle operated as a country castle hotel and wedding venue. It was sold in 2014 and was closed for two years to allow for a huge renovation. Original features have been saved; and where they were beyond repair, they were re-created by teams of specialist, highly skilled craftsmen from all over Europe.

The wedding and events team is in place and looking forward to welcoming some very special guests to the unique and exclusive venue that is Markree Castle.

For more information visit www.markreecastle.ie or call 071 9167800.

Mount Falcon Weddings at Mount Falcon Estate offer luxury and elegance ….. every season. We design and plan each wedding specifically around the wishes and budget of the happy couple. We work tirelessly to ensure everyone has wonderful day, full of warmth and love in the midst of a truly splendid party. Our weddings are as different as our wedding couples. We’ve had sunny, summer weddings with champagne & strawberries on our manicured open lawns. Equally, we love our winter weddings, with mulled wine receptions & cosy turf fire.

Set on a 100 acre estate, Mount Falcon offers 32 stunningly appointed bedrooms in our 4 star deluxe Victorian Gothic style Manor House; and a large selection of luxury lodges to accommodate all wedding guests.

Please contact Clodagh or Alexa to arrange a private viewing of the Estate.

Mount Falcon Country House Hotel, Foxford Road, Ballina , County Mayo Tel: 00353 (0)96 74472 www.mountfalcon.com

Royal Marine Dating back to the 19th Century, The Royal Marine Hotel in Dun Laoghaire has panoramic views of Dun Laoghaire Harbour and Dublin Bay giving you the perfect backdrop to your perfect day. The hotel is considered one of the most romantic venues in Dublin with a marvellous sense of history and character found in all nooks and crannies. The hotel boasts many of the traditional features of a 19th century building including high ceilings, sophisticated detail on the cornicing and the magnificent Victorian staircase.

The Carlisle Suite is the perfect venue with the flexibility to cater for numbers of 120 - 400 guests.

Overlooking Dun Laoghaire Harbour, you and your guests will enjoy the scenic views for the duration of your special day.

For your Pre Dinner Drinks, the Pavillions Bar is exclusive to you and your guests and is located directly beside the Carlisle Suite Whether you wish for large or intimate, formal or casual, a marquee, a soirée, a luncheon or a civil ceremony, our Victorian settings is perfect for a unique memorable day.

If you have any questions, please do not hesitate to contact the team on +353 (0)1 2300030 or email events@royalmarine.ie www.royalmarine.ie

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Photography by Paul Keeling Photography

Luxury Irish Castle Wedding Venues

Ballyseede Castle

Bellingham Castle

Cabra Castle

Markree Castle

Ballyseede, Tralee, Co. Kerry, Ireland

Castlebellingham, Co. Louth, Ireland

Kingscourt, Co. Cavan, Ireland

Collooney, Co. Sligo, Ireland

Tel: +353 66 712 5799

Tel: +353 42 937 2176

Tel: +353 42 966 7030

Tel: +353 72 916 7800

Email: info@ballyseedecastle.com

Email: info@bellinghamcastle.ie

Email: sales@cabracastle.com

Email: info@markreecastle.ie

www.ballyseedecastle.com

www.bellinghamcastle.ie

www.cabracastle.com

www.markreecastle.ie

www.romanticcastlesireland.com

Venues

Leading Wedding

Seafield Hotel & Spa Resort Situated in the idyllic location of North Wexford, the award winning Seafield Hotel & Spa Resort exudes contemporary elegance in a magical setting on Ballymoney Shore.

With its own private access to Wexford’s magnificent coast, this Hotel is synonymous with style and luxury.

The resort also includes the multi-award-winning Oceo Spa, complementing 102 carefully designed deluxe bedrooms and 30 courtyard apartment suites.

Seafield is an inspired choice of venue for your wedding. A true getaway. A statement of style and a worldclass level of comfort and sophistication.

Enjoy their undivided attention, as you exchange vows and celebrate in style in one of four bespoke event spaces, including the impressive Pavilion Marquee and exclusive Clubhouse. Let the Seafield Team swoon you and your sweetheart!

Arrange a first date with Sonia or Stephanie… E: events@seafieldhotel.com T: 053-9485107 W: www. seafieldhotel.com

Sheen Falls Lodge Sheen Falls Lodge is one of the most romantic wedding venues in Ireland. The location of this five star hotel on the banks of the Sheen Waterfalls with the highest mountain range in Ireland as a backdrop, ensures a truly memorable day. The team know that no two weddings are the same. Each of their bespoke weddings are designed in collaboration with each couple to create a unique event.

Couples have the opportunity of exclusive use of the hotel and its 300 acre estate, with spectacular scenery for photographs.

The Lodge can accommodate up to 200 guests in The Falls Restaurant with the adjacent Cocktail Bar and Sun Lounge, ideal for your drinks reception and entertainment following your wedding banquet. Our Wedding Executive will take you through every step of your wedding plans ensure that you both enjoy this very special occasion.

Sheen Falls Lodge Kenmare, Co Kerry + 353 (0) 64 6641600 www.sheenfallslodge.ie

Step House Hotel The Step House Hotel is a four star family run boutique hotel located in the picturesque village of Borris, Co. Carlow at the foot of the Mount Leinster & The Blackstairs Mountains. The warm and welcoming atmosphere of the hotel is designed to indulge, relax and unwind you. From the original Gothic detailing of the entrance to the restrained opulence of the interior, this is a place to soothe and inspire. The Step House Hotel has been specifically designed to host the most romantic and personal weddings. The Ballroom has been luxuriously tailored to facilitate weddings for a maximum of 200 Guests. The Cellar Restaurant & Residents Bar can also cater for wedding for up to 60 Guests. Beautifully crafted French arched doors lead out onto the landscaped garden with Mount Leinster and the Blackstairs Mountains peering in the distance.

This idyllic country setting with its relaxed yet elegant function room, exceptional cuisine and traditional hospitality will leave friends and family with memories to treasure forever. www.stephousehotel.ie Tel: 059 9773209 weddings@stephousehotel.ie

Solis Lough Eske From the Fairy-tale Castle Tower, to an imposing glass and stone façade, an easy-going blend of casual, country-style comfort and modern luxury awaits you and your guests inside. This award-winning luxury castle hotel offers a fresh perspective on castle living.

Let the magic of Lough Eske Castle become entirely yours for your special day. Utilising years of five-star service and attention to detail, the Castle has carefully designed a unique collection of wedding packages designed to suit all of your tastes. Each package incorporates the sumptuous wedding menus specially designed by Lough Eske Castle’s Executive Chef using an array of the finest locally sourced foods and suppliers.

For more information please contact Simon Petka E: simon.petka@solishotels.com T: +353(0)74 97 43163 W: www.solishotels.com/lougheskecastle

196 I IWD I Leading Wedding Venues

Hotel & Restaurant

Step House

Experience the Exceptional Hotel & country house hotel, A four star family run boutique Restaurant designed to host the most intimate and personal weddings.

Step House

Step House Hotel Carlow Borris, Co. Carlow, Ireland

T: +353 (0) 599 773 209 E: weddings@stephousehotel.ie

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Step House

Venues

Leading Wedding

Summerhill Country House The Summerhill Country House, situated in the picturesque village of Enniskerry, is the ideal country house venue for your wedding. The Avondale Suite can accommodate from 80 to 250 guests. Fully licenced for civil ceremony you can enjoy your entire wedding in this wonderful location. Set in five acres of private grounds this 87 bedroom country house is one of the leading wedding specialists in the Dublin/Wicklow region.

Concentrating on just one wedding reception per day affords them the opportunity to provide you and your party with the intimate service and the attention to detail you would deserve and expect. A fantastic selection of packages are available all year round and packages and menus can also be customised to suit your individual requirements. The experienced Wedding team are always on hand to guide and assist you through your preparations. Every wedding booked at the Summerhill Country House receives over 12 complimentary extras. Every Sunday is a Wedding Open Day so why not visit the Summerhill Country House , Enniskerry .

For information call 01 – 2867928. E: weddings@summerhillhousehotel.com W: www.summerhillhousehotel.com

Tulfarris Tulfarris Hotel & Golf Resort is the perfect marriage of elegance and beauty, providing everything you need for a magical wedding day. The stunning Blessington Lakes, secluded beaches and captivating woodlands are the perfect backdrop for your special photographs. Whether it’s an intimate affair for 20 or a lavish occasion with 250 guests this 4 star resort is the ultimate wedding and civil ceremony destination.

Our enchanting Manor House provides the perfect beauty spot to spend your first night as husband and wife.

All of the lavish suites command stunning views across the beautiful lakes or up to the Wicklow Mountains, giving you the ultimate Lord and Lady of the Manor experience. Our main hotel comprises 60 superbly appointed deluxe rooms overlooking our 18 hole championship golf course and our selection of restaurants and bars provide unlimited options for your day-after party.

Ideally located just an hour from Dublin and with all inclusive packages, this is an opportunity not to be missed to start planning your dream wedding.

Tel : 045-867 600. www.tulfarrishotel.com, info@tulfarris.com

Waterford Castle Hotel & Golf Resort Imagine having the most special of days on a private island in a castle that’s exclusively yours for your wedding day.

Ireland’s only island castle is set on an enchanted 310-acre private island. This magical wedding destination is surrounded by the River Suir and accessed by private car. Waterford Castle Hotel offers the very best of Irish hospitality and luxury in the most beautiful surroundings imaginable. Dining at Waterford Castle provides an opportunity to taste the best of traditional and contemporary Irish cuisine.

The award winning culinary team’s create artisan food for your magical day. The wedding coordinators attention to detail, commitment and professionalism will make wedding dreams a reality.

Irish Hotel Awards 2018 - Hotel of the Year - Luxury Hotel of the Year - Fine Dining Hotel of the Year - Castle Hotel of the Year Waterford Castle Hotel & Golf Resort, The Island, Waterford. t. +353 (0) 51 878 203 w. www.waterfordcastleresort.com e. weddings@waterfordcastleresort.com

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Tulfarris is a perfect choice for your dream wedding day. Located just 40 minutes from Dublin, your guests will experience exquisite surroundings and gourmet cuisine against the spectacular backdrop of the Blessington Lakes and Wicklow Mountains.

Our team are absolute experts in perfecting every detail. The resort comprises the stunning 18th century manor house and is complimented by a luxury 4 star hotel. We can host weddings for both small and large numbers, the maximum capacity being 250 guests for dinner.

Contact our dedicated wedding team to arrange a tour of our beautiful grounds and banquet rooms.

Tulfarris Hotel & Golf Resort 00353 (0) 45 867 600 • banq@tulfarris.com www.tulfarrisweddings.com

The Real Wedding of

Emma & Daniel Who were married in Mount Falcon Estate on 5th May 2018

200 I IWD Feature I Real Wedding

I met Daniel while in San Francisco during the North American GAA Championships. All the Toronto clubs went on a tour of Alcatraz and we locked eyes across the boat. Our first date was all planned and kept secret

by Daniel, we went for dinner to a small Italian restaurant in Chinatown in Toronto and then walked around the city and as it happened Buskerfest was on at the time and it was a very pleasant experience.

Daniel spent several months planning a proposal

reception at Mount Falcon Estate. The church

and worked with a jeweller in Toronto to design

was beautifully decorated and the ceremony

the perfect ring. Then in our apartment on Dec

itself was streamed live for some of our family

23rd 2016 he got down on one knee. He knew

and friends who were unable to attend from

I would want to call my family straight away,

around the world.

so he made sure it happened in the morning!

Since we met and spent the majority of our relationship away from family, we really wanted our wedding in Ireland. For a lot of our families it was the first time meeting us, so it was important to have a relaxed few days.

Our big day was May 05 2018. We were married in my local church in Swinford followed by our

Daniel spent several months planning a proposal and worked with a jeweller in Toronto to design the perfect ring I

had

three

bridesmaids

and

a

junior

bridesmaid. My twin sister, my younger sister, my old college friend and Dan’s beautiful niece.

It was an easy decision choosing the girls. I really wanted those closest to me and who knew Daniel and myself the best, to be by my side on the build up to the day.

I got my dress in Toronto, I tried a lot of

to Daniel and all were able to add their own touch to the celebrations. Hugh gave a side tearing speech with Darren on hand as MC and his brother Jamie to do all the formal legalities.

different dresses (my sisters count is 70, with two trips to Kleinfelds) before I found the one.

It was a great experience and since my family and bridemaids were all back in Ireland, a couple of my friends stepped in and came along to fitting after fitting.

We opted not to have any best men for the wedding as all three groomsmen mean so much

Real Wedding I IWD Feature I 201

Daniel was able to organize the menswear

were

on one visit to Eddie Murphy’s in Ballyhaunis

weather and canapés while

able

to

enjoy

the

in Mayo. They made everything so easy and

we had some pictures taken.

worked with us over WhatsApp and email and

The food was amazing and

did any last minute alternations that we needed

our guests are still passing

a few days before the big day.

comments on how good it was. The sun was shinning

The bridesmaids and I got ready at my home

all weekend!

A falcon was

house, with my parents. The amazingly

also on hand for our guests to hold

talented Sarah Keogh Makeup came all the way from Longford that morning to do our makeup,

After a beautiful dinner, Bridal Wave band set

along with Hair By Jacqueline from Ballina who

up to entertain our guests and the floor was

did a fantastic job on getting us ready. We

packed all night.

were picked up from the house by U2R1 cars in a beautiful white Jaguar and a BMW for the

Our photographer Karl Keaney was on hand

bridesmaids.

all day and well into the night to catch all the special moments during the day. We were so happy to use a professional photographer as the results were fantastic. Its so important to have a good photographer as you do not get to repeat the day. We would highly recommend Karl to anybody looking for a good photographer.

The following day our guests enjoyed the sunshine and amenties of Mount Falcon Estate, Foxford and Enniscrone. That afternoon Mount Falcon had a beautiful outdoor BBQ for our guests with some music from the superb Colin Fahy. All in all it was the most amazing few

After the church ceremony we headed to Mount

days and a big Thank you to Mount Falcon for

Falcon Estate. As we were both agreed, we

their superb attention and service.

wanted to have an intimate wedding so Mount Falcon Estate was perfect for us. We had the

We have not gone on honeymoon yet. After the

run of the Estate for two days and our guests

wedding we went back to Toronto and decided

really got to relax and enjoy the celebrations.

it was time to come home to Ireland. So we

The day itself was perfect. The staff attended

spent a couple of months packing up our lives

to every detail to perfection. Mount Falcon

there and moved home to be closer to our

had set up a cocktail reception outside and an

family and friends.

afternoon tea in drawing room and our guests Photography by Karl Keaney • www.weddingphotographermayo.ie

202 I IWD Feature I Real Wedding

Creating M agical Moments SINCE 1876 Tel: 096 - 74472 email: events@mountfalcon.com web: www.mountfalcon.com

Total Hair & Beauty Wedding Countdown

X

posé hair and beauty expert Aimee Rogers has been styling the great and the glamourous for the past 15 years, including TV presenters, bloggers and trendsetters – with many travelling from far and wide to avail themselves of her expertise. Aimee and her team of hair and beauty professionals have plenty of experience with bridal hair and makeup and are regularly called upon to manage hair and beauty makeovers for full bridal parties – everyone from the bride to the motherin-law can benefit from Aimee’s expertise!

Here, Aimee gives her Bridal Beauty

the time to start a course of Dermalogica fa-

countdown tips before the big day. ‘Cre-

cials to ensure your skin is perfect for the big

ating a hair and beauty bridal calendar

day.’ If you are planning to schedule a course

is one of the most important steps any

of facials, this is the time to meet with the skin-

bride can take. With so much to organise

care expert at the salon and allow them to as-

and prepare for, it’s understandable that

sess your skin and recommend the right treat-

your hair and beauty prep can slip down

ment programme for you.

the priority list. Book your stylist at least 12–18 months before your big day but I

Two months to go

recommend three months out for the se-

Haircare

rious prep work to start. If you miss that

At this stage, it’s time to invest in a good home-

deadline, don’t worry! It’s never too late

care regime, such as Kérastase Fusio Dose

to take action!’

Homelab. ‘I work with my brides to ensure they get the products and treatments they need,

Three months to go

because everyone’s hair is in a different condi-

Haircare

tion. I often recommend the HomeLab range:

The importance of the wedding hair trial cannot

it comes in individual treatment vials for regu-

be overstated. What looks good in a photo or

lar dosage and gives the luxury of the salon in

glossy magazine might not look so good on cer-

the comfort of your own home. Over time, it

tain face shapes or with different hair types, so

can repair dull devitalised hair, and can protect,

the trial is essential to allow the bride to explore

nourish and add density.’

what suits her and see what she is comfortable

Aimee also suggests using Ké-

with. Be sure to schedule a long enough ap-

rastase Elixir Ultime to add shine

pointment and also bring any accessories with

and deep nutri-

you that you might use on the big day.

tion

to

dull

hair,

or

Ké-

Beauty

rastase

Every bride needs to establish a good home

tensioniste for

skincare regime - it’s essential in fact! Aimee

blondes, which

says, ‘Brides want their skin to be flawless and

will strengthen

to have a natural glow on their big day ,so I

and

always recommend a Dermalogica routine as

damaged

they have products within their range for every

over-processed

skin condition. If it’s within your budget, this is

hair.

Ex-

repair or

Beauty If a bride wants to invest in a little more than a good skincare regime, this is the time to consider additional treatments. Lots of brides are opting for anti-ageing treatments and peels; Dermalogica have a range of skin-brightening peels suitable for all skin types; and with little or no down time there is something for every budget.

One month to go Haircare It’s the final haircare countdown! Time to look ahead and make plans for the wedding day and the honeymoon. If you have naturally rebellious or frizzy strands, go for our in-salon 12week blow dry one month before the wedding.

Our smoothing service helps hair stay healthy, strong and frizz-free while cutting down on your blow dry time at home – plus it will last, and be perfect for the honeymoon!

Beauty Invest in a makeup trial. It’s well worth it and will allow you to experiment with different looks and colours. Aimee suggests doubling up and having a mini makeup lesson at the same time. ‘Our in-salon makeup artist, Aoife Crossan, will always talk her clients through every step of the makeup application and give her tips and tricks to take home in order to achieve that flawless finish.’

Photography by Jenny McCarty www.photosbyjen.ie

204 I IWD Beauty I Wedding Countdown

Three Weeks to go Haircare It’s decision time! The final evaluation of all your hair needs! If you are wearing your hair down or in a semi-up-do, you will need to get it looking as healthy as possible – especially the ends. Aimee suggests getting an intensive Kérastase in-salon deep conditioning treatment.

‘Hair is easier to work when it’s healthy and less problematic,’ she says.

ever, recommend having your trusted stylist

Working towards your big day!

(i.e. not a new person) at a salon near the wedding location in order to do a little light trimming of the ends.

Beauty If you have been maintaining a good skincare

Some top tips to ensure hair and beauty perfection on your special day

regime at home, you should be seeing the results by now. As an additional boost, a Derma-

•

DO consult a hairdresser and build a

logica hydrating facial is a must at this stage

good rapport with them. Having a pro-

as well. It leaves the skin beautifully soft and

fessional on board will give your hair the

glowing and will help transform your skin for

best chance to look healthy and beauti-

the big day.

fully styled on your wedding day. Bring plenty of photos or magazine pics for

One week to go

ideas on the look you would like to cre-

Haircare

ate. And don’t forget any headpieces or

Highlights and colour should be done one week

hair accessories – your hairdresser will

before your wedding. You want your colour to

need to explore all your options with you to ensure you get the look you want.

settle, but still be fresh and radiant, so this is the perfect time to manage your colour for picture

•

DO get a great haircut before your wedding. Depending on the length and type

perfection.

of your hair, let your hairdresser recommend the best timing to support the style

If you have very fine hair then maybe Beauty This close to the big day, Aimee says it’s time to focus on hydration in order to ensure that dewy, glowing look for the big day. ‘I always advise my brides to drink at least a litre and a half of water every day and to ensure they are moisturising fully including the neck and décolletage.’

Two weeks to go Haircare Go for a final trim. Aimee says, ‘I would never recommend someone make a drastic change right before they get married.’ She does, how-

you wish to achieve.

you need a little extra help. Aimee suggests extensions. ‘For very fine hair I recommend extensions to thicken the hair, adding

•

DO get in-salon treatments and blow

both additional volume and length. Usually I

dries in the weeks prior to the big day

work these into the hair about a week before

when the budget allows. As well as keep-

or after the final colour.’

ing you looking fab for those girlie days out, the treatments and styling will help

Beauty

build up good conditioning in the hair and

Add some skin-boosting products to your rou-

keep frizz and split ends to a minimum.

tine for the final week, such as Dermalogica Phyto Replenish Oil, a super-hydrating treat-

•

DON’T do anything extreme or drastic

ment that adds picture perfect luminosity to

to your hair before your wedding! This

the skin, and C-12 Pure Bright Serum, a highly

means NO crazy haircuts, colour chang-

potent skin-brightening serum that will multiply

es, or highlights that you have never tried

your glow factor!

before. This is NOT the right time to experiment!

•

DON’T overdo it! Some brides can be drawn to extremes in an effort to look different or special on their wedding day.

You have your own personal look and style and the look you create should emphasise the best of your style.

•

DON’T wait until the last minute to figure out what look you want for your wedding.

Make sure to road-test out your preferred style completely, including all the accessories that you plan on using. Have the stylist that will be doing your hair ON

Total Hair Care and Beauty by Total Hair Care are based in Marley Grange Retail

YOUR DAY create a full trial hair look for

Park, Grange Road, Rathfarnham. Open 9am-9pm, it’s perfect for discreet pamper-

you several weeks before the wedding.

ing, maintenance and anti-aging treatments for both women and men.

Wedding Countdown I IWD Beauty I 205

Never allow your guests to ever forget your Big day.

Clikring Photo Keyrings Wedding Favors www.clikring.ie info@clikring.ie Tel: 01 6268847 / 087 2521135

Rebecca Fox

Dublin based make up artist will travel to you for trial and on the big day.

Wedding Packages include a Free trial for Bride and strip or individual lashes Contact details for enquiries

Tel 0871632332 Email foxluxe19@gmail.com • Instagram: foxluxe_

206 I IWD I Wedding Diary Directory

UKEBOX

UKEBOX are an impeccable, talented and professional Ukelele Trio who play and harmonise like nobody else.

UKEBOX guarantee to bring fun and sunshine to your wedding or party and can walk from table to table entertaining your guests P h: 087-9831232 ukeboxmusic@gmail.c om Facebook.c om/ukeboxmusic Ukeboxmusic

www.thelooksband.ie - info@theloosband.ie Superior Entertainment - Non Stop Dancing 087 176 8014 - 087 767 2477 Wedding Diary Directory I IWD I 207

WOW is a unique, fully costumed, party band experience comprised of four professional musicians who have come together to form the ultimate wedding and party band.

From Swing to Classic Hits, 80s/90s to Modern Chart Hits, we guarantee a packed dancefloor all night!

Facebook.com/wowpartyband

Wowpartyband

Tel: 0879831232 / 0868624614

wowpartyband@gmail.com

Cassidy Chauffeur Drive Vintage Wedding Car Specialists

Suppliers of Rolls Royce & Bentley Cars • Complimentary bottle of bubbly

Contact: 01-4501533 Mobile: 087 2567822 www.cassidychauffeurs.ie Cassidy Chauffeur Drive Spring 2018.indd 1

208 I IWD I Wedding Diary Directory

05/12/2017 20:06

“

I joined WW to be healthy.

Being at goal weight on my wedding day was something I never imagined.

Vanessa V. WW member lost 4st

”

For more information on WW At Work, WW At Home and to find your local WW Studio™ visit ww.ie or call 01 870 3900 / 028 9042 6812 WW logo, Wellness that Works™ and WW Studio™ are the trademarks of WW International, Inc. © 2019 WW International, Inc. All rights reserved.

LOUGH D

CASTLE O

N

E

G

A

Wedding Packages from

â‚Ź69 per person

L

Lough Eske Castle, Donegal Town, Co. Donegal, F94 HX59 T: +353 (0)74 97 25100 E: sales.lougheske@solishotels.com www.lougheskecastlehotel.com