Irish Wedding Diary Summer 2019

IRISH

SummeR 2019

Your Complete Guide to Getting Married in Ireland

10

real Brides share their stories

DIARY

Beautiful

Wedding dresses

dresses for Bridesmaids

AWAR DS As vote

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The BesT

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of Irish

Weddi ng

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Magaz

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Banish Wedding Worries

Wedding

Venues

great selection of

honeymoons and Weddings aBroad

€5.80 £4.00

www.IrishWeddingDiary.ie

@SincerityBridal

#SincerityBride

|

sinceritybridal.com

MADE WITH L

V E I N C A NA DA

To find your nearest stockist visit www.palomablanca.com

Irish Wedding

DIARY

Summer 2019

Welcome

Hello everyone and welcome to the Summer 2019 issue of Irish Wedding Diary, Ireland’s best-loved and top-selling bridal magazine.

We’re heading into peak wedding season so hopefully all you 2019 brides don’t have too many things still on the to-do list. With your wedding fast approaching you should be finalising the preparations for what will be the best day of your life. Your stress levels might start to rise as you finalise the guest list and see what you have left to prepare and how much time you have left. It’s natural to have some stress but if the stress levels get too high, remember that the most important thing about the wedding is that you and your partner will be gathered with your nearest and dearest to celebrate your love. Nothing in life goes exactly to plan and there will probably be a few hiccups along the way but if you keep calm and focused nothing will ruin your dream day.

For all you 2020 and 2021 brides-to-be, you’ve got more time to peruse this issue where you’ll find everything you need for your big day. To help you plan the perfect wedding we’ve got a couple of features inside which will help you make a plan and stick to it and help you deal with any pesky problems before they arise or at least nip them in the bud when they do.

We have the results of the 2019 Irish Wedding Diary Awards where we asked you, our readers, to vote for the wedding suppliers who have gone the extra mile to make your special day truly special. You voted in your thousands and we shortlisted the top five suppliers in 21 categories.

They then went into a vote-off where over 25,000 votes were cast to find the top wedding suppliers in Ireland. The full list of winners and runners-up is on page 62.

Honeymoons are the one part of the wedding which is truly just about the couple and with that in mind we have put together a great selection of honeymoon ideas for you to dream about. There’s a big world out there and we’ve got some great ideas both near and far. If you’re planning a wedding abroad you’ll also find plenty of ideas inside.

Cover Dress by Essense of Australia www.essensedesigns.com Publisher: IrishWeddingDiary.ie Ltd. 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 some wonderful ideas between the covers of this magazine. We’ve got soloists and rock bands to 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.

We all love looking at other people’s weddings and we have a bumper selection of real weddings for you. This issue we have 10 real-life weddings with brides and grooms telling us their stories of getting married all around Ireland and one couple who got married in Malta Don’t forget our great App where you can get the entire magazine, just as you see it here on your IOS and Android device. You can pop it in your pocket and check it out on your commute to work or sipping coffee. Just search the App Store for Irish Wedding Diary and download the App for free. If you like what you see you can get a yearly subscription for under €10.

Happy Planning!

Press Releases to: Alex@irishweddingdiary.ie or Unit 8, Fashion City, Ballymount Road Upper, Dublin 24, Ireland, D24 EW2P Photography: Dermot BYrne Contributors: Andrea Hayes, Editor Elaine Hession Alex Joyce Peter Cole Marcus Stewart Katie Byrne

Andrea Hayes

Irish Wedding Diary, Unit 8, Fashion City, Ballymount Road Upper, Dublin 24, Ireland, D24 EW2P 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

Design: Outline Graphics. www.outline.ie

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.

www.irishweddingdiary.ie 4 I IWD Contents I Spring 2019

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

42 WEdding dding giFts ts

WEdding dding aWards ards

t to the lis 1. Stick for Help 2. Ask cise 3. Exer Calm 4. Stay f Yoursel e B 5. tic Roman 6. Be Fun ve Ha 7.

26 60

WEdding dding Plans

Contents

14 WEdding dding nEW nEWs

32 summEr E Er Fashion

WEdding dding and W honEymoon shoW

14 26 32 42

62 94

Farnham EstatE E Photoshoot

mothEr r oF thE BridE

hEalth Ealth & BEauty auty

84

60

WEdding dding s VEnuEs

66

102

62 66 84 92 94

152

160

164

WEdding dding WorriEs E Es

rEal al W WE WEddings Eddings Eddings

126

mEn’s n’s room oom

118

WEdding dding traVEl l

6 i iWd Contents i Spring 2019

Preview of the Wedding & Honeymoon Show Summer Fashion Wedding Gifts Promises Promises 2019 Wedding Resolutions IWD Wedding Awards 2019 Winners Farnham Estate Bridal Photoshoot Wedding Beauty Wedding Statistics Mother of the Bride and Groom Outfits

102

Ireland’s Leading Wedding Venues

118

Bridesmaids Dresses

126 BridEsmaids smaids drEssEs s

Wedding Diary News

Wedding Travel: Honeymoons and Weddings Abroad

152

Grooms Room

160

Overcoming Your Wedding Nightmares

164

Real Weddings as Brides Share Their Wedding Day

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

A L L U R E B R I D A L S . C O M

D2752

essensedesigns.com

stellayork.com

6758

MADE WITH L

V E I N C A NA DA

To find your nearest stockist visit www.mikaellabridal.com

Discover Your Favourite

Bands

DiaryNews

Venue

The Perfect Venue

Whatever The Season…

Set in a truly spectacular Wicklow Valley less than an hour’s drive from South Dublin. Macreddin Village is home to BrookHall, the perfect romantic setting for your wedding.

BrookHall - a dedicated wedding venue includes The River Room which can seat up to 200 diners, a Mezzanine Bar, a dedicated reception area, ensuite 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.

Macreddin Chapel, located on the grounds just across the village green, our very own private and unique venue which seats up to 140 guests and is approved for civil marriages; Macreddin chapel can also be used for a simple but intimate blessing.

BrookLodge & Macreddin Village, Co. Wickow Tel: 0402 - 36444 weddings@brooklodge.com

At Fields, they believe you shou ld be given just as much care, attention, and expertise when buyin g your wedding bands as when you are selecting your engageme nt ring.

You will wear these rings every day, so it’s important that you choose the style that’s right for you. Plain or diamond encrusted?

Wide or narrow? Platinum or gold? Which fits best with your engagement ring? The only thing that really matters to Fields is that you find the wedding bands that are right for you.

Fields have the widest choices and styles guaranteed to suit every taste. Most importantly, they have a team who really care about getting it right.

Simply put, they care because you

Pleaser A Real Crowd

Andrew Bennet is an accomplished singer and guitarist with over 20 years’ experience. He specialises in providing music for wed-

ding ceremonies and drinks receptions. He has an appreciation for all genres of music and will deliver a performance to meet

care.

your needs and expectations, whatever they may be. Having played to audiences at home and abroad, Andrew is a pro at get-

Fields look forward to welcomin

g you to their stores to help you

find the band of your dreams. www .fields.ie

ting the party started but will happily provide a crowd-pleasing repertoire for a more intimate gathering. Rest assured, no matter what part of your special day you book Andrew, he will make it an experience you will never forget.

14 I IWD I Wedding Diary News

Email: aebmusic32@gmail.com Tel: 086 396 2195

Amsha

Bridal

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

Weddtying

Rock Your

Par

DiaryNews Tipple A Favourite

Gin is one of Ireland’s favourite drinks at the moment, so if you are thinking of including it in your big day celebrations, here is some good news. Earlier in the year, The World Gin Awards 2019 saw over 400 entries from all over the globe blind tasted by industry experts to shortlist the best gins from 20 countries.

The overall ‘World’s Best Gin’ winner was announced recently as none other than independent, family-owned Dingle Original Gin. So, whether you want to share your love of gin

g Band 2018’ p Rated Weddin eddingDates.ie ‘To W th a the d de ad ys are a band wi Having recently t, the Bentley Bo ing trophy cabine of the on up rge de bu Ma ir . rty the dding pa award to lly rock your we oose from ord that will rea a dance floor. Ch ck proven track rec pa to w ho ow kn ys , gu se the d, ur un ts yo wedding best musicians aro and style that sui nd for the look ba me e Co iec e. e-p vic elv ser tw late-night DJ a three- to a er jazz music and Belfast, tions of pre-dinn wcase in Dublin, sho with additional op ng mi co up an at live rm g wedding nd perfo me Ireland’s leadin and see the ba se guys have beco the w ho see to sband.ie Athlone, or Cork www.bentleyboy r more details see Fo . ers vid pro t oysband.ie entertainmen ail: info@bentleyb or 091 442350 Em Tel: 01 4434336

with your wedding guests in the form of ginthemed favours or maybe go full out and have your own gin bar, you now have the world’s best gin right here in Ireland. The Dingle Whiskey Distillery, Milltown, Dingle, Co. Kerry, Ireland is the home of Dingle Gin, voted ‘World’s Best Gin’ at the World Gin Awards 2019.

Web: www.dingledistillery.ie

Venue A Boutique

Oldcastle House Hotel is located in the historic market town of Oldcastle, Co. Meath. A twelve-bedroom boutique hotel, Oldcastle specialises in accommodation, food, music, and entertainment like nothing else in the area.

Oldcastle House Hotel is now the perfect place to say ‘I do’ with exclusive wedding packages starting from €5,000. Celebrate your special day with the backdrop of Loughcrew Cairns in the newly refurbished Ruby Room.

Oldcastle House Hotel also specialises in hen packages including trips to Causey Farm and Victorian Escapades. They have a beautiful roof garden, perfect for prosecco receptions on a summer’s evening, leading directly from three of the bedrooms!

Oldcastle House Hotel has recently been awarded 9.2 out of 10 in the Booking.com Guest Review Awards for exceptional hospitality!

Tel: 049 8541708 Email: info@oldcastlehotel.ie web: www.oldcastlehousehotel.ie

16 I IWD I Wedding Diary News

M A I N H ALL, RDS, 7- 8 S E P T E MBE R 2019

Everyone’s a VIP at our Wedding fair.

Bring your whole wedding party to The Wedding and Honeymoon 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 Room - Get your nails done at our new Nail Bar

Visi t we d.ie for mor e in fo

Organised by Eventhaus on behalf of Terry Burns Wedding Exhibitions Ltd

The

Right Choice

DiaryNews

Love of Dogs For The

Why not #PawsForThought if you are considering buying a puppy, Dogs Trust would love if you could consider

a rescue dog #AdoptDontShop .

They would always advise you get some advice first or you could also take some time to read ‘Dog Tales with Andrea Hayes’ it 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 place in their hearts and homes for

The Looks Band make it simple for you to make the right choice. High

the abandoned animals. It could be

energy, live music, the band have played all over Ireland with

the perfect gift for the dog lover and a

professional musicians, extensive set list and impressive sound

percentage of the sales go directly to

and lighting. The group are dedicated wedding band entertainment

Dogs Trust Ireland when you buy from

specialists and know what it takes to put on the perfect show for

their online store at www.dogstrust.ie

non-stop dancing. Music from classic bands of the 60’s, 70’s and 80’s like The Beatles, Queen and Journey to modern day music from

Dogs Trust is Ireland’s largest dog welfare charity, their mission is to bring an end the

Bruno Mars, Adele and Taylor Swift keeps the dance floor full from

destruction of stray and abandoned dogs in Ireland. Would you consider including your

the first dance to the last. The Looks can also provide ceremony

furry four legged canine friend in the wedding celebrations?

music, drinks reception and DJ service to finish out the night. You can have it all! Check out The Looks Band at www.thelooksband.ie they

You can support Dogs Trust Ireland and include them in your special day celebrations

are simply - superior entertainment. 5 star Entertainment

with their unique and beautifully designed Dogs Trust donation card keepsakes which are

Spend five minutes and saver hours of work !

a fantastic and popular alternative to traditional wedding favours !

Tel: 087-1768014 / 087-7672477

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

You might have noticed that I updated my picture on the editor’s letter with some new images by an incredible team. I wanted to give a special mention to my long-time friend and expert in her field, Zoë Clark.

Zoë is one of Ireland’s leading professional makeup artists, who began her career in London in 1994 working for MAC Cosmetics. She returned to Ireland in 1995 launching herself as a freelance makeup artist. Since then, she has built up an impressive client list including The Spice Girls, Mariah Carey, Nigella Lawson, Minnie Driver, Kristen Wiig, and Martin Scorsese to name a few. She has written beauty features for many magazines and newspapers and is continually in demand for makeup in fashion, advertising, TV, and music shoots. The good news is she also does weddings, and with her understanding of lighting and the effect it has on makeup, she will always ensure her work is precise, creative, and photographically beautiful.

Her amazing skills, coupled with her infectious personality, have made her a favourite with celebrities.

She also runs her own exclusive makeup school in Dublin. Zoë has won ‘Best Makeup Artist’ in Ireland’s Most Influential in Fashion Awards, ‘Best Wedding Makeup Artist’ 2014 in the Bash Magazine Awards, and has been nominated for ‘Best Makeup Artist’ in the IMAGE Business of Beauty Awards, in the Benefit Xposé Awards, and more recently in the Mrs2Be Brides’ Choice Awards. So, ladies, I can give her

20 I IWD I Wedding Diary News

my personal endorsement if you are looking for makeup perfection for your special day!

Email: zoe@zoeclark.com Web: www.zoeclark.com

All Things Communion Trade Fair Red Cow Moran’s Hotel 28th and 29th April

TRADE ONLY

Not Open to the Public

Tel: 086 365 9545 To Register email: info@joancalabrese.ie

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

DiaryNews For the Bridesmaids

She’s just popped the question, a question some are delighted to answer with a resounding ‘yes!’. But equally, it might fill others with a sense of dread. ‘Will you be my bridesmaid?’

Planning, organisation, fashion advice, emotional support, and bags of positivity; what’s expected of a modern bridesmaid these days? Natasha Mac a’ Bháird’s handy new guidebook aims to answer questions and ease the fears of any newly appointed bridesmaid. Whether it’s a sister, friend, or relative getting married, the bride is planning one of the most important days of her life, and it’s up to her bridesmaids to help as best they can. Besides, what could be nicer than helping someone make memories to treasure for the rest of her life?

The Irish Bridesmaid’s Guide will lead bridesmaids through the entire process from wedding dress shopping to planning the hen party, to potential bridesmaid dilemmas and solutions, as well as duties on and ahead of the big day and lots more!

Bridal New

In Cavan

Wow

Your Guests

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 the beautiful we see, and try on Sacha James , urg Martin Thornb from Sophia Tolli, azing First am an e hav l. They also and Venus Brida Pie. Contact el from Sweetie Communion lab 86 780 5957.

Bridal on +353 (0) Michelle at Amsha ber Photography

hite Am Photograph by W

WOW is comprised of four experienced musicians who have come together to form the ultimate wedding band. Between them, the members have played every major venue in Ireland from the 3Arena in Dublin to the SSE Arena in Belfast. WOW is a unique, fully costumed party band experience. WOW start your night off with a selection of swing music dressed and performed in the style of the Rat Pack, then seamlessly change costume for classic party hits. Once again, there’s a slick transition into iconic 80s attire.

Next, it’s the 90s. Then the final part of the show is filled with current floor fillers, keeping your night and dancefloor 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

24 I IWD I Wedding Diary News

Web: www.wowpartyband.ie Tel: 087 9831232 Email: wowpartyband@gmail.com

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

The Wedding & Honeymoon Show 2019 Main H a Saturdall, RDS & Sund y 7th Septem ay 8th b 11am –er 2019 www.w 5pm ed.ie

our Make Y ing Wedd m a e r D t The a y t i l a Rea ng & Weddi moon Honey 2019 Show The Wedding and Honeymoon Show is back!

special day, from your

Once again, Ireland’s largest Autumn wedding

venue, to the fashion, to

showcase is coming to life in 2019 at Dublin’s

your honeymoon.

An ideal day out for

Bursting with new features, the two-day show

and the

show gives all visitors

RDS, on Saturday, 7 September, and Sunday, 8 September.

brides

grooms-to-be,

Before you say, ‘I do’, this is one diary

the perfect opportunity to chat

date that you won’t want to miss: Saturday, 7

with exhibitors in relaxed surroundings, to

September, and Sunday, 8 September.

compare the many options available, and most important, to enjoy creating their dream

will be home to more than 200 exhibitors and will showcase Ireland’s leading wedding

Here’s just some of what we have in store for

wedding day, all thanks to the wealth of ideas

specialists, covering all aspects of planning your

this year’s Wedding and Honeymoon Show:

and valuable information on offer.

•

Wedding inspiration

•

Expert advice from Ireland’s most trusted and leading wedding professionals

•

Bridal

catwalks

featuring

over

100

dresses

•

Suppliers galore – from hotels to cakes, photographers, and much more

•

Travel specialists who can help you to create and plan your dream honeymoon

26 I IWD Preview I Wedding & Honeymoon Show

It is the only Wedding Show you need!

your special day can be booked on the one day.

New For 2019!

but also money because many exhibitors offer

Bursting with wedding inspiration, The Wedding and Honeymoon Show is the ultimate day out where you can buy and book everything you need to make your dream wedding a reality.

Your visit will be packed with inspiring and creative ideas from over 200 of the finest wedding suppliers, and our programme of features will ensure every detail of your wedding is fine-tuned.

New features include: •

Get cupcakes and treats galore with Afternoon Tea.

•

Get pampered at the deluxe Nail Bar.

•

Book a free seat at the ‘I Do’ School, hosted by Sara Kennedy, from Irish Wedding Blog, a must see for all soon-tobe brides, bridesmaids, and mothers of the bride.

The show will help to take the stress out of wedding planning and not only save you time exclusive show-only offers and discounts.

Anyone currently planning their big day can take advantage of talking and exchanging ideas with professionals who make wedding dreams come true. Whether you’re planning a low-key, intimate day or an all-out glamourous party, talented and professional exhibitors are sure to help you on your way to your dream day!

Showcasing the latest bridal fashion Our spectacular Catwalk Shows present a variety of stunning gowns for every style and budget – helping you to ‘Say Yes!’ to your dream dress.

From princess brides to simple and chic, our bridal catwalks, which take place twice daily, are THE place to see all the key trends set to hit the wedding scene in 2020 – from hair and makeup to the most divine dresses and accessories.

And don’t forget the bridal party! There are fashion

showcases

featuring

bridesmaid

dresses, mother of-the-bride collections, and formal wear for grooms-to-be.

With music, dance moves, and a few surprises along the way, the Catwalk Shows are sure to help you say ‘I do’ in the right dress for you!

Say ‘I Do’ Abroad The Wedding and Honeymoon Show is the essential event for all couples planning a

Save Time & Money!

The Wedding and Honeymoon Show gives you the opportunity to meet with a range of leading wedding specialists, all under one roof, who will be on hand to offer invaluable advice and inspiration for your special day.

Everything you need, want, and dream of for

wedding or honeymoon abroad. Whether you are looking to have your wedding near or far, in an idyllic Italian villa or on a white-sand beach in the Caribbean, the range of specialist overseas wedding and honeymoon suppliers at the show covers everything from popular destinations to unique locations so that you can find exactly what you are looking for.

The ultimate destination for wedding inspiration From the perfect dress to the most tranquil honeymoons,

The

Wedding

and

Honeymoon

Show

has everything you need to help plan your special day under one roof!

And with many of our exhibitors offering special show

discount

rates, this is a great opportunity to save money and still have your dream wedding!

Take the stress out of planning your wedding and join us as we roll out the red carpet for the most anticipated wedding event in Ireland!

Taking place in the Main Hall of the RDS, Dublin, on Saturday, 7 September, and Sunday, 8 September 2019. For more information, or to book tickets, visit www.wed.ie

be Not to

missed

e will b Show r a e Y the p 0! Kee ride of The B y 202 r a u n Ja nnels ing in ial cha return c o s r u o out on prize an eye ws and e n , s ate w upd ie for sho WED. s-@ y a w a give

The Wedding and Honeymoon Show is organised by Eventhaus Ltd. on behalf of Terry Burns Wedding Exhibitions Ltd.

Wedding & Honeymoon Show I IWD Preview I 27

DiaryNews o Ukulele Tri

Chapel of Love Your Own

Ukebox is a ukulele trio made up of three of the most reputable musicians in Ireland who play and harmonise together like nobody else. This unique group will bring something extra special to your day. Ukebox

Discover the land of W.B.Yeats in a hotel set on beautiful grounds overlooked

can dress in Hawaiian attire to bring fun and sunshine to your special day or

by the beautiful Benbulben Mountain; take in the most breath-taking scenery.

can dress formally in suits for more formal events. Ukebox can tailor a set to suit ceremony music or a more upbeat set for drinks receptions or corporate events.

A truly unique wedding venue, at Clayton Hotel, Sligo they have the Canis

They also enjoy walking from table to table singing and taking requests!

Major Chapel on the hotel grounds that includes a bar.The Canis Major Chapel

Ukebox is available for events all over Ireland.

is ideal for blessings, civil and spiritual ceremonies, and a drinks reception.

Web: www.ukeboxmusic.com

From an intimate celebration to the more traditional larger weddings, the

Tel: 087 9831232

hotel has the Pegasus Ballroom, and with 162 bedrooms, which includes 89

Email: ukeboxmusic@gmail.com

suites, there’s plenty of room for all your wedding guests.

Contact Sandra, the Wedding Sales Manager, on sohara@claytonhotels.com or 071 9119000 to make your wedding show around appointment. www.claytonhotelsligo.com

Livewire are an exciting duo or three piece wedding band based in kildare but travel nationwide.We have numerous years of experience in the music industry played with some of the top wedding bands and top venues throughout ireland and abroad.We provide a professional service to our wedding couples and make sure our sound quality and music choice are top class.We provide value for your entertainment investment and make sure we keep the dance full all night long.We play music to suit everyone on the night and cater for all types music tastes.We aim to please your guests and make it a memorable and exciting night.

Livewire bring a burst of energy to every performance; with a professional attitude but fun approach they will keep your guests dancing all night. This friendly team are

Annebrook House

28 I IWD I Wedding Diary News

based in Kildare but travel nationwide and provide an outstanding service to local bridal couples.

With a wealth of experience in the industry, Livewire use their knowledge to create an unforgettable experience. By using high quality equipment this duo or three piece band will play a fantastic range of music that is sure to suit a range of tastes. www.livewireband.ie info@livewireband.ie Martin 0872582248

Make Your Wedding

A Royal Affair…

Let Us Sweep You Off Your Feet

The perfect backdrop for your treasured memories Contact our dedicated wedding experts on: events@royalmarine.ie or 01 271 2515 Royal Marine Hotel | Marine Road | Dún Laoghaire | Dublin | A96 K063

www.royalmarine.ie

Win One of These Great Prizes April Our april Competition gives one lucky couple the chance to win an engagement studio photoshoot with renowned wedding photographer Thomas sunderland in Carlow.

Thomas Sunderland’s reputation for fine photography in the wedding industry is well known. If you are looking for a fresh, vibrant, yet intimate record of one of the happiest days of your life, you will not be disappointed with Thomas Sunderland.

To enter this competition go to www.irishweddingdiary.ie during april Check out www.thomassunderland.ie

May Our May competition gives you a chance to win €300 Off your wedding dVd with award winning Videographer gerry duffy.

Producing over 1600 Professional Wedding Videos in 38 years, means that Gerry Duffy is one of Ireland’s most highly experienced professional Wedding Videography companies.

To enter this competition go to www.irishweddingdiary.ie during May Check out gerryduffy.ie

June

during June 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 June Check out www.dublinbridalhouse.ie

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

www.irishweddingdiary.ie and answer the simple question

30 I IWD Feature I Competition 30 I IWD Feature I Competition

60109846 PM Irish Wedding Diary 2017-V1.indd 1

16/02/2017 15:53

Fash on Compiled by Elaine Hession

Bangle Art

Dress Fresh

Preen Clean

Glow Golden

Debenhams Studio

by Preen €80

Golden Maxi dress from Onjenu

Trollbeads Nature Art Bangle Stack €450

Monsoon Araceli Dress €70

Mellow Yellow

Mini

Pleated

Power Flower

Oasis Floral

Glamorous,Yellow Pleated Midi Skirt €45

Miss Selfridges White Floral Button Side Midi Dress, €55

Littlewoods Oasis Floral Dress €70

Suited Well

Yellow Jacket and Trousers from Miss Selfridge

32 I IWD Feature I Fashion

Heel Court

GUESS Yellow Court Heel €99

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

Drop

Fash on

Statement

Compiled by Elaine Hession

Lacy

Karen Millen Shard Statement Drop Earrings €105

Midi

Grapefruit

A Little

Lipsy Lace Top Bodycon Dress €99

Little Mistress Carissa Grapefruit Floral Belt Midi Dress € 98

Peach A Little

Maxi

Debenhams MW by Matthew Williamson €140

Paisley

Peachys Blinder

Little Mistress Carissa Grapefruit Floral Belt Midi Dress € 98

Floral Maxi Dress from Onjenu

Glamours Logo Sunflower Yellow Knitted Cross Back Midi Dress €45

Bloom In

34 I IWD Feature I Fashion

Ruffle Pink

Joe Browns Romance In Bloom Dress €70

Wallis SS19 Pink Ruffle Dress €75

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

Fash on

Bangle

Dress

Compiled by Elaine Hession

Blossom

Scallop

Prix

Thomas Saba Bangle €69

Lipsy Printed Scallop Dress €80

Bon

Bon Prix ,bonprix €70

Bag Paper

It’s All White

Dress

Girls On Film Regency White Button-Front Paperbag Skirt €40

Shoulder One

Floral

Littlewoods.com, Lavish Alice One Shoulder White Midi Dress €95

Gerry Weber Dress €150

Stone Square

Oliver Bonas Malva Pearl & Square Stone Earring €50

Heels Pretty

Dune London Mrs - €175

36 I IWD Feature I Fashion

Tone Duo

Debenhams, RJR. John Rocha €80

A VENUE FOR ALL SEASONS

Contact Kaela or Zuzana on (01) 2186054 or Email weddings.sthelens.dublin@radissonblu.com Radisson Blu St. Helen’s Hotel, Stillorgan Road, Blackrock, Co. Dublin Radisson Blu St. Helen’s Hotel, Dublin | @RadissonStHelen | radissonblu.sthelens

ST HELEN’S HOTEL, DUBLIN

Drop Elegant Velvet

Fash on

Onyx

Compiled by Elaine Hession

Blazer Mint

Oliver Bonas Myrtle green Onyx Drop Earrings €45

Dorothy Pekins Mint Green Blazer €50

Minty Green

Bag Hand

Garden Secret

Oasis Secret Garden Midi dress €80

Dune London - Dinidoting -€95

Earring Beaded

Oliver Bonas Spark Beaded Chain Drop Huggie Earring €27

38 I IWD Feature I Fashion

Heels Miint

Faith Mint Green Heels €55

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

Sorella Vita Bridesmaids

IWD Editor Andrea Hayes held a brief Q&A recently with the amazing Martine Harris, Chief Creative Officer of Essense of Australia, Stella York & Martina Liana, and four-time DEBI award winner.

Q: What can bridesmaids look forward to in the latest Sorella Vita collection?

Q: What other bridesmaid trends are popular this season?

MH: This collection opens up a whole new world

MH: I’m excited to show brides the array of on-

of possibilities for Sorella Vita bridesmaids, with

trend design options that await with our new

the perfect combination of vintage details and

collection! Today’s bridesmaids are all about

hot new colours. The new Desert Rose and

that relaxed, effortless beauty of the bohemian

Rosewater shades offer a fresh update to the

style—while maintaining the classic, formal feel

millennial pink trend, which brides are loving

of a traditional wedding day. We’re offering

for their springtime palette or ultra-feminine

flowy, floor-length chiffon gowns with thoughtful

theme. Bluestone then creates a natural, dusty

ruching for a soft romance and Grecian-inspired

blue tone that can accent a variety of mix-

silhouettes featuring unique double- and triple-

and-match combinations for a summery yet

banded waists for a defined figure. I’m also

sophisticated appeal. Velvet is also making

seeing a continuation of the minimalist trend

a comeback this season in delicate strap and

making its way through bridesmaid fashion,

waistband accents, offering a touch of vintage

and Sorella Vita is bringing ‘simple and elegant’

inspiration that takes this collection into the

to new heights in this collection! Brides will see

future of bridesmaid fashion.

this in the form of luxurious satin gowns with contour seaming, high halter necklines, and

40 I IWD Feature I Bridesmaid Dresses

central micro-plunge details that will steal the heart of every modern maid.

Q: What sizing options are available to Sorella Vita bridesmaids?

MH: Sorella Vita is committed to offering every bridesmaid a comfortable and fabulous dress experience, from shopping and trying on our designs in-store to dancing the night away on their bride’s big day. We have a wide assortment of gowns ranging from sizes 7–22 in our standard offerings, 24–30 in plus sizes— and even junior gowns in sizes 8–16. Available in the hottest colours and styles, each of our designs is fashioned with optimal construction for a supportive fit—as well as age-appropriate cuts and necklines—to perfectly flatter every bridesmaid (regardless of shape, size, or age)!

Q: What sets Sorella Vita apart from other bridesmaid labels?

Q: What bridal party trends do you predict we will see in upcoming seasons?

MH: Sorella Vita dresses are designed with

MH: Brides love innovating the ever-popular

trend-conscious bridal parties in mind. All our

mix-and-match theme to create a look that

gown styles, colours, and fabrics are carefully

is truly their own. Not only will they play up

chosen based on the latest trends that brides

a mix of silhouettes, necklines, and colour

are seeing online and on the runway. Whether

variations, but we will see a continuation

styled as classic, boho, or elegant, each design

of unexpected tactile details making big

is developed with the idea that it can be

statements in 2020 bridesmaid collections.

incorporated into any theme to create custom

From mixed-up fabric gowns featuring silky

yet totally cohesive bridal party looks.

Mikado and satin bodices over breezy chiffon skirts, to all-over sequin details—the variety of texture and interest in Sorella Vita gowns will only continue to evolve with these fashionforward brides! I can’t wait to see how they create their seamless yet individualised looks and begin paving the way toward trends of the future.

Bridesmaid Dresses I IWD Feature I 41

G ifts Made W it h Love ^ Hedge

Copper Ball of

Lighting| Cooper Botti Pendant 32 - www.delightfull.eu

The

Hedgeroe Home, Armchair at The Wedding Shop €1,065

Classic A True

Forest Wood

Clock

Abraham Chesterfield Sofa €1,899 - Harvey Norman

Click

Sherwood Center Table: a shiny but sober contemporary design piece - brabbu.com

Smoke The Big

Radio Click Clock €70 - Designist

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

42 I IWD Feature I Wedding Gifts

Stonehenge Console - bocadolobo.com

G ifts Made W it h Love ^ France Hanging

Lamp

Music Sounds

Space

Bose SoundTouch Series 20 Wi-Fi Music System

R Space Lamp in Walnut

€399.95 - Harvey Norman

€90 - Designist

White French Inspired Madeleine Suspension Lamp www.delightfull.eu

Wakey Wakey

Fridge Fiat

Reflectoins Round

A chopped Fiat 500

holds advanced cooling

technology from Smeg. €5,400

SAYA round mirror in silver and gold coral details brabbu.com

Windsor Seatat

Newgate Clocks, Alarm Clock at The Wedding Shop €29

Windsor: 3 Seater Sofa The 5th Lock, Naas Canal Framed Print €199 - Michael Murphy Home Furnishing

€1,819 - DFS Co. Plc

Wedding Gifts I IWD Feature I 43

Lamps Three

G ifts Made W it h Love ^

New Piece Triptico Suspension Lamp - bocadolobo.com

Flower

Flower

Lotus

Lotus

Lotus Flower Tealights €5 each - Penneys

Nest your

Organic LANKA bedside table in palisander wood veneer, bedroom décor - brabbu.com

Case Hard

Dining Texas

Texas Dining Chair

€179 - Harvey Norman

Horizn Studios, Trolley Suitcase at The Wedding Shop

Raffles 44 I IWD Feature I Wedding Gifts

Raffles Grand Sofa DFS Co. Plc

Charlie Nest of Tables €129 - Michael Murphy Home Furnishing

Velvet

G ifts Made W it h Love ^

Blue

Zinc velvet 3 seater sofa €1469 - DFS Co. Plc

Onion Texas

Dining

Onion Lantern, $16, ‚Ǩ15 €15 - Penneys

Comfy

Cannon

Avante Dining Chair

€115- Michael Murphy Home

Cannonball Suspension Lamp

Furnishing

Casserole Cast Iron

Oracle The

Le Creuset, Round Casserole at The Wedding Shop €259

Cream Ice

Sage The Oracle Coffee Machine

€1,999 - Harvey Norman

Koi Be

Cuisinart Ice cream & Fresh

KOI Freestand: an organic

Dessert Maker, Light Pistachio

design for an eccentric bathroom decor brabbu.com

46 I IWD Feature I Wedding Gifts

Lough Rynn Castle Estate & Gardens MIDWEEK WEDDINGS

FROM

€75 €68 per person

INCLUSIVE OF:

ARRIVAL DRINKS RECEPTION FIVE COURSE MEAL HALF BOTTLE OF WINE PER PERSON EVENING BUFFET

LOUGH RYNN CASTLE

MOHILL, CO.LEITRIM T: 071 96 327 00 E: ENQUIRIES@LOUGHRYNN.IE

Cutlery e d G ifts Ma W it h Love ^ Grinder Liberty Cult

A Real

What a

Liberty Mirror from bocadolobo.com

Arthur Price Luna 24-Piece Cutlery Set €69.99 - Littlewoods Ireland

Cuisinart Grind & Brew Auto Coffee Grinder and Coffee Maker €140 www.cuisinart.co.uk

Speaker Beautiful

Corker A little

Roberts

Alessi, Corkscrew at The Wedding Shop €37

Retro

Roberts Revival Radio €129 - Harvey Norman

Lounger Garden

Garden Lounger €99.99 - HomeSense

48 I IWD Feature I Wedding Gifts

This is truly a dazzling beauty. Meet aFUNK, a wireless Bluetooth speaker in a league of its own. €115 www.einrichten-design.de

Est.1887

ADAM’S FINE JEWELLERY & WATCHES AUCTION TUESDAY 14TH MAY at 6:00PM VIEWING DAYS: 11th - 14th May

A Fine Emerald and Diamond Ring Estimate €8,000-10,000 A Fine Ruby and Diamond Cluster Ring Estimate €8,000-10,000 A Fine Diamond and Platinum Bracelet Estimate €7,000-9,000

A Pair of Diamond Earstuds with A Diamond Pendant (Partly illustrated) Estimate €800-1,000 An Impressive Diamond Dress Ring Estimate €18,000-22,000

PRSA Registration no. #001959

CATALOGUE AVAILABLE ONLINE FRIDAY 19TH APRIL 2019 WWW.ADAMS.IE

26 S t S tephenS G reen D ublin 2 +353-1-6760261

6045 Irish Wedding Diary 11 March.indd 1

claire @ aDamS . ie 07/03/2019 09:29

G ifts Made Helper W it h Love ^ Kitchen

KitchenAid Stand Mixer at The Wedding Shop €804

Mirror Circular

Beans

Tarington Circular Mirror €119.99

Littlewoods Ireland

Slim

Delonghi ‘Red Slim Style’ Coffee Machine €249 - Harvey Norman

Scales Retro

Red Scales €16.99 HomeSense

Drawers Pink

Vase Silver

Cloud Chest 6 Drawers Pink

Dinner Round for

at www.circu.net

Romodesign Air Round Dining Table €449 - Michael Murphy Home

Margeaux Flower Vase €140

Velvet

Furnishing

Red

50 I IWD Feature I Wedding Gifts

Modern Red Velvet Chesterfield Style Sofa - DFS

www.thomassunderland.ie

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

Lighter Cage

G ifts Made W it h Love ^ Stool

Hanging Cage Light

€22.99 - HomeSense

Blue

Squeeze Your Favourite

Minx Little

Minx Coffee Table bykoket.com

Alessi Juicy Salif Citrus Squeezer By Philippe Starck

Table

Side

Stiletto Bar Stool - €129 Michael Murphy Home Furnishing

Charm Golden

Martini

Double

Tom Dixon, Pair of martini

glasses at The Wedding Shop €126.50

Kimba Side Table €99 - Littlewoods Ireland

Leather Button Armchair at DFS

Stand Night

Old Suitcase Silver Night Stand for

52 I IWD Feature I Wedding Gifts

stylish bedrooms at www.circu.net

Create Your Favourite Moments With Monica Loretti & Daniela Di Marino

Monica Loretti

Exquisite Italian designers Monica Loretti and Daniela Di Marino are one of the fastest growing bridal gown creators in Europe…. and they are now launching their spectacular designs throughout Ireland and the UK. With luxurious concepts, figure flattering forms and the creation of striking ideas, these really are the blueprint

Monica

for brides who are seeking the ‘edge’ on their defined gown.

Loretti

Skilfully shaped by experienced creators using

the most up-to-date manufacturing technology and high quality fabrications, these labels ooze with character and individuality.

Here are a few of our favourite designs – Enjoy! www.monicaloretti.com www.danieladimarino.com Stockists Dublin Bridal house 11 Main Street Rathfarnham Village, Dublin 16 Tel: 353 1 6993707 The White collection Riverside Retail Park, Neil T Blaney Road Letterkenny, Co Donegal Tel: 353 74 9167804

Monica Loretti

Monica Loretti

Retailer opportunities available.

Houston Agencies, contact Karen 00447879772607

Weddings I IWD Feature I 53

G ifts Made W it h Love ^ Mix

Chandelier Galliano

Galliano Suspension Chandelier www.delightfull.eu

Empire Cracked

Magic

Food Processor, Magimix

Empire Centre Table

at The Wedding Shop €299

bocadolobo.com

Dinner Set for

Waterside 24-Piece Eloise Blue Dinner Set €79.99 - Littlewoods Ireland

Pink Three Seater Sofa From DFS

Chair Lounge

Stand Night

Carl Hansen & Son Indoor-Outdoor Lounge Chair at www.chaplins.co.uk

Senzia Night Stand -€229

Michael Murphy Home Furnishing

Tea Party Alice’s

Alice Tea Cup and Saucer €19.99 HomeSense

54 I IWD Feature I Wedding Gifts

Alternative Guide to Gifting Unique Gift Ideas

Your gift list can be anything you want it to be and The Wedding Shop would love to help make it as individual as you. If you need a few ideas and some inspiration to get you started, then read on to find out more about their huge selection of gifts, experiences, travel and subscriptions from over 400 brand partners, there’s bound to be something for everyone!

Quirky Home Accessories

Aeroskull nano speakers by jarre at TWS from €91

Martone Cycling, Womens Bicycle at TWS €1,265

This is likely to be the only chance you will have to shop without spending a penny, so don’t be afraid to add things to your list that you perhaps wouldn’t buy yourself, but would love to have. Think outside the gifting ‘box’, from a top of the range bicycle to a skull audio speaker.

Art

Whether you fancy yourself as a bit of an art buff, or just like to add

Butterfly Girl by Ellie Vandoorne at TWS €240

some colour to your walls, artwork makes a lovely personal gift that can be passed on for generations to come. From abstract drawings to landscape prints, art is a great gift if you want to display a special piece in your home to remind you of your big day, every day. The Irish brand Jando offer a beautiful range of landmark prints that bring a pop of colour to any room!

Framed Print of St.James Gate, Jando at TWS €70

Honeymoon Essentials

You may be asking your guests to contribute to your dream

Lie-on Float, SunnyLife at TWS €57.50

honeymoon, but why not ask for a few gifts to make this trip even

Slim Cabin Trolley Case, Delsey at TWS €252

more memorable. From stylish suitcases to beautiful beach towels – upgrade your essentials for the honeymoon you’ll never forget.

How about a pair of effortlessly stylish suitcases from Delsey, beach towels from Soho Home or a SunnyLife inflatable. You could even add a camera to capture all those magical moments!

Mr & Mrs Smith Gift Voucher for one night at The Barnsley House for two at TWS €345

Experiences

Maybe you already have the essentials and you’re looking for something that’s more of a special once in a lifetime gift, like a ‘tick it off the bucket list’ sort of special. You can add a whole range of different experiences to your gift list with our travel and experience partners including Mr & Mrs Smith, Wild Frontiers, Original Travel and Truly Experiences.

To create your list today visit us at weddingshop.ie or to book an appointment please call +353 (0)1 6619045 The Wedding Shop, 19 Clare Street, Dublin, 2, Ireland

Michelin Star Tasting Menu for Two at L’Ecrivain at TWS €239 Wedding Gifts I IWD Feature I 55

G ifts Made W it h Love ^

Clock Wall

Umbra Madera Wall Clock - £50

Marble

www.redcandy.co.uk

Table

Over

Bowled

Laskasas Ann Marble Dining Table at laskasas.com

Calling

Nkuku, Dakara bowl at The Wedding Shop €11.50

1980

Retro 1980s classic phone

£50 - www.cuckooland.com

Ribbon

Golden

Sconse

Ribbon Dining Table at bykoket.com

Handy

Muse Sconce bykoket.com

56 I IWD Feature I Wedding Gifts

Smeg Red

Vibrant Range of Kitchen Appliances by Smeg

The full range is available from stockists including Arnotts, Blarney Woollen Mills, Brown Thomas, House of Fraser, waterford.eu House of Ireland & The Kilkenny Shop

waterfordvisitorcentre.com

RRD02103-33 WC GIN AD 210mm(w) x 297mm(h) + 5mm bleed V1 LR.indd 1

05/03/2019 16:58

A Perfect Marriage Two world-renowned names have joined together to create the stunning Waterford X Jeff Leatham Collection.

Available from the House of Waterford Crystal and other leading stockists.

W

aterford is pleased to announce its latest collaboration with world-renowned floral artist Jeff Leatham, Global Artistic Director of the Four Seasons Hotel Group. Jeff has been creating a sensation with his floral designs and installations since he first began working with flowers. prestigious

and his passion for design. His creations are

‘Knighthood’/‘Chevalier de L’Order des Arts et

bold statements, using shape, colour, and

Letters’, in 2014 – The French Government’s

simplicity to produce a dramatic effect. Jeff’s

Highest Honour for artists who have made a

expertise continues to attract praise around the

significant contribution to French culture. His

world, as seen in his first two books Flowers by

work is a combination of his love for flowers

Jeff Leatham and Flowers by Design, and his

Jeff

was

awarded

the

new floral design inspiration book Jeff Leatham: Visionary Floral Art and Design. Leatham’s floral design clientele is as impressive as his work, including Tina Turner, Oprah Winfrey, Madonna, Kylie Minogue, Celine Dion, His Holiness the Dalai Lama, and President and Secretary of State Clinton.

The new Waterford Jeff Leatham Icon Collection reflects Jeff’s creative vision and talent for combining beautiful crystal and floral artistry in striking shapes to create pieces that will be treasured forever.

58 I IWD Feature I Wedding Gifts

TAKE A TOUR Why not visit the factory located in the centre of Waterford City in Ireland’s Ancient East and take the opportunity to witness the manufacturing of these and many other Waterford Crystal products? The guided factory tour, which welcomes over 200,000 visitors a year, is a unique and captivating experience that enthrals visitors of all ages, both national and international.

Jeff Leatham is celebrated for his work with

The Icon pattern sets a new crystal template

international celebrities and luxury hotels all

mirroring both Waterford’s rich Irish heritage

over the world and his work as creative director

and Jeff’s clean, chic style direction; the

for some of the most exceptional weddings

collection is the perfect way to bring luxe living

and events. His talent for contrasting nature’s

into the home whether as a striking set of

fluid forms against more formal shapes and

amethyst-hued flutes to toast special occasions

angles is seen throughout the Icon Collection.

with friends or as a timeless, clear crystal photo

The collection includes beautifully structured

frame to preserve important moments.

clear and amethyst crystal vases, bowls, flutes,

The tour – which takes approximately one hour

and tumblers featuring innovative olive cuts

The Infinity Collection combines chic simplicity

– allows visitors to understand each stage of

that form a radiating prism to create striking

with

the production process. They get to see how

refractions and a dazzling finish.

statement vases to be enjoyed every day.

meticulously

cut

crystal,

creating

Waterford Crystal pieces are crafted from initial design right up to the final engraving of the

The collection brings Jeff’s exciting and

piece. Every year, the House of Waterford

luxurious style together with Waterford’s

Crystal melts more than 750 tonnes of

craftsmanship and rich Irish heritage to inject

crystal, using traditional and cutting-edge

timeless elegance and luxury into the home.

manufacturing techniques. On completion of the tour, visitors can experience over 12,000

Handcrafted at the House of Waterford Crystal

sq ft of crystal heaven in the largest retail and

in Ireland by Waterford’s master craftsmen,

brand showcase of Waterford Crystal in the

the Infinity Collection includes three striking

world.

clear crystal vases (available in 9’, 12’, 15’) that can be used individually or layered in three sizes to create a striking floral installation.

Each vase features the distinctive and intricate Waterford Caro cut that Leatham resized with Waterford craftsmen and nicknamed ‘the punk stud.’ The name ‘Infinity’ refers to this cutting pattern that has no beginning or end.

The soft curves of the crystal vases beautifully refract the light because of the multifaceted geometric crystal cuts, allowing the blooms within the floral display to take on intriguing reflections and creating an ultimate statement centrepiece.

For further details on the tours available all Guaranteed to make a stylish talking point, the

year round, visit www.waterfordvisitorcentre.

Waterford X Jeff Leatham collection is sure to

com or call 051 317000.

bring a sophisticated flourish to any home.

Wedding Gifts I IWD Feature I 59

Promises Promises If you want to keep your wedding on track, stick to these promises compiled by Smart City Weddings and you’ll arrive up the aisle stress free and ready to enjoy your big day.

ist to the l 1. Stick p for Hel 2. Ask cise 3. Exer Calm 4. Stay lf Yourse 5. Be tic Roman 6. Be e Fun 7. Hav

F

or you brides-to-be, who are planning a wedding, things can quickly get on top of you if you don’t stick to your plans.

Whether you’re getting married in 2019 or later, there are certain promises that every future bride should be making to themselves…

I Promise to Stick to an Exercise Routine

I Promise to Stick to my ToDo List

I Promise to Ask for Help

create – and stick to – an exercise routine. This

Write yourself a ‘to-do’ list and stick to it. This is

not wanting to burden anyone else

especially important for brides who are getting

with planning, it’s important that

married in 2019 and have lots of finalising to do

you recognise when you need

before they say ‘I do’.

help (and then ask for it)!

Make a List and Stick to it

Whether it’s wanting the day to be perfect, or

Delegate tasks to your partner, your friends, and your family – you’ll be surprised at how many of your loved ones are just waiting for you to ask for their help.

From nailing the guest list (stop putting this

After all, your big day is special to them as well,

off!) to ordering the cake, make a note of all

and they will be honoured to be involved.

the most important aspects of your wedding preparations and start setting aside time to get them ticked off.

60 I IWD Feature I Weddings

It’s fair to say that most brides want to be in the best shape for their wedding. Therefore, the beginning of a new year is the best time to can involve anything from joining the gym to attending fitness classes, or just making time to go outside and get your steps in every day.

“ ” Every bride will admit to having a bridezilla moment or two

I Promise I Won’t Compare Myself to Others

Find something that you enjoy doing; you’ll be more likely to stick with it if you do. You can also get your partner involved and make it a fun and healthy way to spend time together that isn’t all about wedding planning.

I Promise I Won’t Become a Bridezilla We’ve all experienced a bridezilla in full flow, or at least heard the horror stories from people who have witnessed one. It’s no fun for anyone to be around, and it certainly isn’t healthy for your own personal wellbeing.

It’s difficult to remain calm when planning what you hope is the best day of your life, and every past bride will admit to having a bridezilla moment or two.

Be Inspired by others, not jealous Don’t let your need for perfection change

I Will Have Fun

Probably the most important resolution of them all – remember to have fun. Wedding planning

Comparing yourself, or your wedding, to

shouldn’t be stressful or give you sleepless

other brides is something that is never going

nights. You’re marrying the love of your life and

to end well. Don’t get caught up in what other

will (hopefully) only get to do this once. Enjoy

people are planning or spending; instead, just

the build-up to your big day and appreciate

concentrate on your own wedding.

every moment.

Weddings are not a competition. It doesn’t matter if your cake is smaller than someone else’s, or if you haven’t spent as much money on your favours as your sister and her husband did.

Be inspired by others, not envious of them.

I Promise to Make Time for Romance Wedding planning can sometimes take over your life – or at least all your free time. It’s important to keep the romance alive in your relationship by doing things together outside of writing guest lists and choosing colour schemes.

Set time aside each week for a ‘date night’ in which you spend quality time with each other, remembering why you both said ‘yes’ in the first place.

the way that you treat those closest to you.

Bridesmaids don’t like the dresses you’ve chosen? Take the time to explain why you have chosen those specific dresses and how much it means to you that they like them.

Focus on the reason you’re marrying the person you love, and everything else will just fall into place.

Smart City Weddings provide a high-quality wedding car chauffeur service. They make sure you feel like a VIP from the beginning to the very end of your special day.

Weddings I IWD Feature I 61

AWARDS As voted by Readers of Irish Wedding Diary Magazine

Thank you all for voting in the Irish Wedding Diary Awards 2018.

We had over 25,000 votes from our loyal readers this year who wanted to thank those suppliers who had helped them achieive their dream wedding day.

Congratulations to the winners

Best Wedding Dress Designers Winner

Winner

Mori Lee

Lilac Rose MoriKilkenny Lee

Runners Up

Runners Up

Barbara Kosznik Edel Tuite Design Kathy DeStafford Justin Alexander

White Designer Barbara Kosznik Studio, Navan My Edel Fair Tuite Lady, Design Tullamore Kathy Diamond DeStafford Bridal Belladonna Justin Alexander Bridal

Best Wedding Venue Winner

Best Wedding Photography Winner

Kilronan Castle

John Delaney, Kilkenny

Runners Up

Runners Up

Clanard Court Hotel Glenview Hotel Seafield Hotel & Spa Garryvoe Hotel Cork

62 I IWD Feature I IWD Awards

Best Wedding Best Dress BridalDesigners Boutique

Paul Duane Alan Roche Photography Julie C. Buckley Photography Ray Terry Photophgry

AWARDS As voted by Readers of Irish Wedding Diary Magazine

Congratulations to all the runners up who were shortlisted after thousands of votes and should be proud to be in the top five suppliers in Ireland.

Best Wedding Videography

Best Wedding Planner

Winner

Winner

Gerry Duffy Wedding Video

Ever After Vintage Events

Runners Up

Runners Up

CMP Productions Avalon Videos PG Videos Omagh Darren Byrne Photography

Rachel Neill-Watson - Glenview Hotel Ann Leneghan - Weddings in Lanzarote Sean Read - Langton House Hotel Tara Fay

Best Wedding Transport

Best Wedding Entertainment

Winner

Winner

Diamond Limos

DJ Aidan Connaughton

Runners Up

Runners Up

AT&T Chauffeurs U2r1 Lawler Chauffeur Glendale Limos Omagh

Top of the Popz Vintage Vibes Band Nicola McGuire Wedding Singer Long Time Coming

Best Wedding Hair & Beauty

Best Wedding Cakes

Winner

Winner

Tricia O’Sullivan Hair and Beauty

Baker Boy Cakes

Runners Up

Runners Up

Art of Hair - Carolyn Clinton Colour Starz, Athlone LS Hair Westport Hairy Fairy Hair Salon

Maria’s Cake Delights Custom Cakes Drogheda GBC Cakes Navan Jenny’s Cupcakes Wexford

IWD Awards I IWD Feature I 63

AWARDS As voted by Readers of Irish Wedding Diary Magazine

Congratulations to all the winners and runners up who were shortlisted after thousands of votes and should be proud to be in the top five suppliers in Ireland.

Best Wedding Flowers

Best Men’s Formalwear

Winner

Winner

Florist4u

Louis Copeland & Sons

Runners Up

Runners Up

J and M Wedding Florists Dianne’s Floral Designs Absolute Flowers Youghal Balla Florists

Diffney Menswear Eddie Murphy’s Ballyhaunis Mc Kenna Man Corless Menswear Galway

Best Wedding Stationery Winner

Wedding Stationery by Sarah

Best Wedding Gifts Winner The Wedding Shop

Runners Up

Runners Up

Soon2be.ie Caricatures by Carmel Ciara Reynolds Design Imagination Attic

Biddy’s Good Luck Horse Shoes Ciara Reynolds Designs Caricatures by Carmel Fields the Jeweller

Best Honeymoons & Weddings Abroad

Best Hen and Stag

Winner

Winner

Trailfinders

Hen Party.ie

Runners Up

Runners Up

Weddings in Lanzarote Lee Travel Cork Tropical Sky Hayes and Jarvis

Galway Greyhound The Courtyard Apartments Cremin Events Dínn Rí, Carlow

64 I IWD Feature I IWD Awards

AWARDS As voted by Readers of Irish Wedding Diary Magazine

Congratulations to all the winners and runners up who were shortlisted after thousands of votes and should be proud to be in the top five suppliers in Ireland.

Best Mother of the Bride/Occasion Wear

Best Wedding Jewellery

Winner

Winner

McElhinneys Donegal

Fields The Jeweller

Runners Up

Runners Up

Diamond Bridal My Fair Lady, Tullamore The Modern, Cork Sineads Boutique

Cabochon and Co Diamonds Azure Jewellery Jules Bridal Jewellery Lorimat

Best Wedding Favors

Best Wedding Celebrants

Winner

Winner

Carolyn’s Sweets

Antoinette Coleman Kelly

Runners Up

Runners Up

Fresh Vintage Cards Clikring Beautiful Creations Ireland Candylady

Miriam Fitzgerald - Spiritual Ceremonies Anne McAuley Galvin Sandra Losty - Spiritual Ceremonies Bridget Carlin, Humnist

Best Wedding DĂŠcor

Best Random Wedding Suppliers

Winner

Winner

I Do Wedding Decor

Beautiful Creations Ireland

Runners Up

Runners Up

Ever After Vintage Events Aisle Love You.ie Yvonnes Florist, Mountmellick Co. Laois Grace Events

Weddings By Fusion High Horse Events Preciousdays.ie Wedding Art

IWD Awards I IWD Feature I 65

Winter

Lake

Bridal Photoshoot in Farnham Estate, Cavan Photography by Dermot Byrne

Lady of the

Bridal Photoshoot in Farnham Estate, Cavan Photography by Dermot Byrne

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

66 I IWD Bridal I Farnham Estate

Photography by: Dermot Byrne Bray, Co. Wicklow Web: www.dermotbyrnephoto.ie Phone: +353 (0)1 282 9560

Makeup by: Stephanie Burgess www.stephanieburgess.com Phone 087-4107693 @StephBurgessMUA

Hair by: Sinead Gaffney @ The Hair Mob Phone: +353 (0)86 384 5555 Email: hairmobie@gmail.com

Dress by Amsha Bridal Ricehill, Crossdoney, Co. Cavan. Phone: +353 (0) 86 780 5957 Email: amshabridal@gmail.com Web: www.amshabridal.ie

Farnhan Estate I IWD Bridal I 67

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

68 I IWD Bridal I Farnham Estate

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

Farnham Estate I IWD Bridal I 69

70 I IWD Bridal I Farnham Estate

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

Farnham Estate I IWD Bridal I 71

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

72 I IWD Bridal I Farnham Estate

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

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

Farnham Estate I IWD Bridal I 73

74 I IWD Bridal I Farnham Estate

Dress by Padanee Bridal No 5 Block C, The Mercantile Plaza, Bridge Lane, Carrick on Shannon, Leitrim Phone : +353 86 787 0026 @padaneeweddings

Farnham Estate I IWD Bridal I 75

Dress by Padanee Bridal No 5 Block C, The Mercantile Plaza, Bridge Lane, Carrick on Shannon, Leitrim Phone : +353 86 787 0026 @padaneeweddings

76 I IWD Bridal I Farnham Estate

Farnham Estate I IWD Bridal I 77

Dress by Belle MariĂŠe Bridal Market House, Main Street, Athboy, Co.Meath.

Tel:046-9430847 E-mail info@bellemarieebridal.ie and Website bellemarieebridal.ie

78 I IWD Bridal I Farnham Estate

Dress by Belle MariĂŠe Bridal Market House, Main Street, Athboy, Co.Meath.

Tel:046-9430847 E-mail info@bellemarieebridal.ie and Website bellemarieebridal.ie

Farnham Estate I IWD Bridal I 79

Dress by Belle MariĂŠe Bridal Market House, Main Street, Athboy, Co.Meath.

Tel:046-9430847 E-mail info@bellemarieebridal.ie and Website bellemarieebridal.ie

80 I IWD Bridal I Farnham Estate

Farnham Estate I IWD Bridal I 81

Summer Skin With Beauty Editor Elaine Hession

Refresh your beauty wardrobe with some new summer additions to truly wake up your skin. Here are a few favourites that will help get your skin glowing on the run-up to your Big Day.

Wonders Overnight

Cleanse Pure

Enjoy the ritual of removing your makeup as it gently melts away to leave the skin feeling soft, calm, and moisturised. The new Purifying Micellar Cleansing Milk Remove from Clairns has been specially developed to suit even the most sensitive of skin types. Formulated using the finest organic botanical ingredients, it eliminates impurities, leaving the skin deeply cleansed and nourished. As refreshing as

This luxurious mask works to instantly reduce signs of

water, as comfortable as a milk… it’s an absolute dream.

ageing. It’s perfect if you suffer from dry skin because

Purifying Micellar Cleansing Milk Remove €19.50

its rich ingredients of antioxidant-rich cocoa, macadamia, almond, and jojoba oils provide deep hydration to leave skin looking firm and plump. A bridal essential for summer brides.

Eminence Chocolate Mouse Hydration Masque €58

Prep Skin

Apricot Body Oil by Eminence Organic Skin Care nourishes and moisturises to revitalise the look and feel of your skin. Vitamin-rich apricot kernel oil enhances elasticity and improves clarity to deliver a smooth, supple skin texture. Nourishing grapeseed

Calm

Stay

Help settle the nerves on your big day.

Apply 3–6 drops under the tongue for maximum absorption. Try to keep the CBD liquid under the tongue for 60 seconds. Follow this procedure once or twice daily (we recommend 3–6 drops every morning and every evening).

CBD Relieve 15ml Oral Tincture Liquid - 1000mg €85

oil hydrates and diminishes the look of fine lines and wrinkles to promote a youthful, radiant appearance.

Eminence Apricot Body Oil €35.95

Tone up

Repair

Fake a good night’s sleep with the next generation

Tone up your skin with Aquabella Refining Essence Lotion. The super

of night repair creams from IMAGE. The new

hydrating tone will not only tone the skin but also moisturise, smooth,

advanced technology ensures maximum results

and tighten pores. It’s an essential addition to the bridal beauty bag.

for ultimate skin revitalisation thanks to its key

instantly quenches the skin with hydration, nutrition, and super anti-

ingredients of retinol to promote collagen synthesis

oxidants. Ideal for every skin type and necessary for every bridal glow.

and glycolic acid and kojic acid to achieve a skin-

Uriage Thermal Water €14.50

brightening effect.

IMAGE Restoring Youth Repair Crème (30ml €92.50)

84 I IWD Beauty I Summer Skin

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

EVENTS@FSHC.IE

+353 (0)42 93 73530

Essentials Flawless Bridal

With Beauty Editor

Elaine Hession

Nail the bridal look with these must-haves for the perfect bridal glow.

Love True

Illuminate your best features with

the Laura Mercier Flawless Lumière

Radiance-Perfecting foundation. It’s the perfect choice for summer brides that’s totally lightweight but buildable.

Enriched with vitamin C to boost the skin’s luminosity. Available in 30 stunning shades to compliment any bridal look.

Laura Mercier Flawless Lumière Radiance-Perfecting Foundation €49

Encapsulate the moment with the perfect scent to compliment your day. The new Kilian Love, Don’t Be Shy Eau Fraiche

Relax

is a light fragrance infused with neroli, petit gratin, peony, and freesia flowers to create a wonderful scent that feels as light as air. The fabulous new scent is encased in a decorative frosted white

A burst of sweet fresh tangy aromas

bottle that oozes sophistication.

to help you relax and enjoy the

Love, Don’t Be Shy Eau Fraiche by

moment of the big day.

Kilian €175

Available online at www.emmas.ie Orange Palmarosa by Emma Soy Candles €19.50

Control Pore

Clairns has just launched a new generation

of skincare products scientifically designed to

promote healthy skin with a cocktail of natural plant extracts. The Poreless Blur Stick dramatically reduces the look of pores while mattifying shiny areas to reveal a smooth appearance.

It also smells divine thanks to its extracts of organic strawberry tree fruit and chrysin.

Poreless Blur Stick €17

Restore

Boost your pre-ceremony glow with an advanced brightening cream that delivers a more radiant and even complexion. Rich in phytochemical composition, this crème reduces the appearance of age and dark spots and leaves your skin luminous after just a few applications. Ideal on the run-up to your wedding.

IMAGE MD Restoring Brightening Crème, 50ml RRP €108

Statement Lips

Complete any bridal look with a glamourous pink. The new

Contour

colour from Chanel Rouge Coco Flash collection glides on Take your contouring to another dimension. The Flat Tapered Sculpt Brush by Blank Canvas is the perfect multi brush for shading, highlighting, and blending. An essential for insta moments on your big day.

Flat Tapered Sculpt Brush by Blank Canvas F15 - €25

86 I IWD Beauty I Bridal Essentials

effortlessly to give a full vibrant colour that’s comforting on the lips. The succulent piquant raspberry is the perfect combination to keep your lips nourished on long days.

Chanel Rouge Coco Flash 91 BOHEME €38

Those smooth and perfectly moisturised feet didn’t happen by chance you know. But far be it from us to give away the bride’s secrets. Okay, maybe just one. Flexitol.

..

STEP 1

STEP 2

TREAT

MAINTAIN

Contains 25% Urea Intense moisturisation

Use to maintain healthy skin after treatment with Flexitol Heel Balm

Visible results in 1 day Suitable for diabetics 2018/ADV/FLE/099C

Medically proven

FEEL CONFIDENT EVERY STEP OF THE WAY AVAILABLE IN ALL GOOD PHARMACIES. ALWAYS READ THE LABEL.

Contains 10% Urea Enriched with Vitamin E Intensive hydration and skin nourishing, rapidly absorbed

Essentials Burst Colour

Honeymoon

With Beauty Editor

Elaine Hession

Whether you have planned a mini-moon or honeymoon, be sure to stash some beauties in your carry-on to keep your skin happy, hydrated, and looking beautiful.

Escape Sweet

Create endless bridal eye looks with the Clairns palette: houses X eyeshades as well as a highlighter and blush for the perfect summer bridal looks Clarins Selfie Eye Palette €39

Peachy

A warm pink nude with a beautiful pearl

finish. Suitable for any subtle bridal look.

MAC Peach Blossom €20

Golden

Goddess

Enhance your golden tan with a pop of colour. The CND Sweet Escape Collection features a gorgeous selection of pastel pinks and peach nude polishes that promise a seven-day wear without chipping, making them ideal for honeymoon getaways.

Vinylux CND Sweet Escape Collection €11.95 each

Chance One

A wave of extreme freshness

meets with the flowery notes

and continues with a sensual spicy composition that wears beautifully on the skin. It’s a classic from Chanel.

Chanel Chance Eau Vive Tendre 50mls €73

88 I IWD Beauty I Essential Honeymoons

Swirl your way to radiance with MAC’s Refined Golden bronzer.

Define and sculpt your contours with the powder’s silky texture, which lets you customise your glow from subtly sun-kissed to just-stepped-off-the-beach bronze. Great for the honeymoon bag. MAC Refined Golden €28.50

Sweep Clean

Ideal for highlighting on point and dusting all fallouts from your shadow.

Blank Canvas Cosmetics F05 €11

H

Essentials Honeymoon

With Beauty Editor

Elaine Hession

Pick Me Up

Colour

Pop of

Colour Crush Super pops with colour for fun looks

Ideal for quick pick-me-

on your honeymoon.

ups because it helps

Laura Mercer Velour

the skin rejuvenate

Extreme Matte

throughout the day.

Lipstick € 26

Spritz onto skin

Classic Timeless

Hands Soft

An oriental floral spicy fragrance perfume of orange blossom, ginger, cinnamon, white amber,

in the morning to refresh and tone and again at night to fully recover and rest the skin. Packed with healthy ingredients of fig extract, acerola seed extract, and robinia flower to moisturise, soften, and maintain a fresh complexion.

Hydrating Beauty Mist Refresh €19.50

and Madagascar vanilla to create the perfect fusion of aromas on your honeymoon.

Alien by Mugler 60mls €88

Cocoon your hands in dewy hydration. The new Kilian White Tea hand cream is

another way to wear perfume.

Perfect Pout

An all-in-one palette for lip perfection. The creamy powder

It’s the perfect travel ensemble

transforms lips with a matte finish and intense metallic

for luxury honeymoons.

sheen that’s weightless for comfortable wear. The velvety

BY KILIAN WHITE TEA

shades can be worn alone, mixed, or layered for multiple

HAND CREAM €46

bridal looks. For added comfort, prep lips with Base Balm.

Using a brush or fingers, apply Velour Lip Powder directly on top of Base Balm. Using a brush will create a more defined

Classics Summer

New from the Clarins Spring Collection,

lip look. Using fingers will create a softer effect.

Laura Mercier Velour Lip Powder, New York, €25.50

The Fix

Glow Go warns up the skin in one simple

A long-wearing foundation that combines a natural matte

twist. Both a highlighter and a blush, this

finish and medium-to-full buildable coverage. It helps

double end stick is just perfect for insta

minimise the appearance of pores and imperfections,

applications. Choose one to enhance your

giving skin a smoother, more flawless look and finish.

glow.

Ideal for action-packed honeymoon getaways.

Clarins Spring Collection Glow Go €29

MAC STUDIO FIX SFF 15 €32

Essential Honeymoons I IWD Beauty I 89

Our holistic programme for weight loss and wellness, guiding you to a healthy eating pattern whether you want to lose weigh or just maintain.

Powerful Community At wellness workshops get expert guidance from WW Coaches and support from fellow members.

Share, Laugh, Learn.

Tara -1st 9lbs

Sarah -3st

Coach Patricia – 3st

Audrey -2st 7lbs

Science Based Plan With proven SmartPoints® system 200+ ZeroPoints™ foods Activity and mindset focus With WW Digital get 24/7 online Coach support

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01 870 028 90423900 6812

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WW logo and WW Studio™ are the trademarks of WW International, Inc. © 2018 WW International, Inc. All rights reserved.

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Image courtesy of Sheila Roberts Photography Image courtesy of Sheila Roberts Photograhy

Wedding Statistics Age On

umber of N35%

Guests 30%

30%

25%

35%

31%

25%

15%

20%

12%

3% Over 100

3% Over 150

Over 200

Over 250

30%

29%

31%

20%

8%

2

3

4

5

Cost

34%

33%

31%

24%

5% 0%

7%

5%

1

2

3

25%

32% 26%

20%

18%

15%

5

Wedding Gift

35%

25%

20%

4

Average

30%

25%

15%

12%

10%

5% 0%

30%

Engagement Ring

35%

10%

Groomsnen

35%

10%

5%

30%

Over 35

15%

12%

1

30-35

25-30

Number of

20%

15%

0%

Under 25

25%

20%

10%

0%

Over 300

Bridesmaids

35%

13%

5%

Number of

25%

23%

10%

9% Under Over 50 50

26%

15%

12%

5% 0%

38%

30%

20%

10%

Wedding Day

40%

5% Under €1000

92 I IWD Feature I Weddings

Under €3000

Under €5000

Under €7000

Over €7000

14%

10%

0%

11%

9%

7%

1% Under Over €100 €100

Over Over Over Over Over €150 €200 €250 €300 €350

Wedding Statistics Abroad

3%

UK

5% Online

Bridal Boutique In Ireland

NO

25%

YES

9%

75%

82%

Where will you bu

Will You Have a

y

Wedding Gown

YES

61%

Party Next Day

NO

39%

Will You Hire A

Wedding Car Will You Invite

Children

NO

24%

YES

76%

Will You Hire A

Videographer No

9%

NO

28%

YES

YES

72%

Online Magazine

27%

Yes

Tradional Magazine

69%

Do You Buy

Wedding Mags

Surveys conducted with registered brides-to-be on www.irishweddingdiary.ie

Weddings I IWD Feature I 93

Mother of the

BRIDE And occAsionweAr

Outfit by Luis Civit

Outfit by Rosa Clara

Outfit by Ispirato Outfit by Rosa Clara

Outfit by Social Occasions

Outfit by Linea Raffaelli Outfit by Onjenu Outfit by Condici

94 I IWD Feature I Mother of the Bride

Find authorized retailers at: www.rosa-clara.com

Mother of the

BRIDE And occAsionweAr

Outfit by Luis Civit

Outfit by Social Occasions

Outfit by Linea Raffaelli

Outfit by Rosa Clara

Outfit by Onjenu

Outfit by Condici

Outfit by Ispirato

96 I IWD Feature I Mother of the Bride

Belle Marièe provide sizes from 8-20 in Occasion Wear and provides an exceptional service with in house alterations. We have a wide range of hats, head pieces, shoes and bags. Belle Marièe caters for all occasion Mother of the Bride/Groom, Wedding guest and race day etc.

Stocking: Ronald Joyce, Carla Ruiz, Luis Civit, Sonia Péna, Rosa Clara, Claudia C and Veromia.

Market House,Main Street,Athboy,Co.Meath. Tel:046-9430847 E-mail info@bellemarieebridal.ie and Website bellemarieebridal.ie

Mother of the

BRIDE And occAsionweAr

Outfit by Condici

Outfit by Social Occasions

Outfit by Onjenu

Outfit by Luis Civit

Outfit by Social Occasions

Outfit by Linea Raffaelli

Outfit by Ispirato

Outfit by Rosa Clara

98 I IWD Feature I Mother of the Bride

Mother of the

BRIDE And occAsionweAr

Design Timeless

Savvy Style

Design Centre has been a leading force in Irish

Nestled in the south east’s fashion capital, Gorey, Co.

fashion, dressing Ireland’s most stylish women

Wexford, La Crème Boutique is a must visit for any

for over three decades. For the contemporary

mother of the bride or groom and the style-savvy lady

woman who loves simplicity and elegance,

looking for something a little bit different. La Crème offers

Design Centre is the go-to destination in

an unrivalled shopping experience for your big event. It is

Dublin for those timeless covetable

a magical world where wishes and whims can be indulged in

classics. Voted ‘Best Irish Offering’ in

every way. Their mother of the bride and contemporary casuals

the IMAGE Boutique Awards 2018 and

ranges boast their biggest and most diverse collections yet, with

winners of the Xposé Fashion Awards

show-stopping outfits from 83 Irish and international labels. La

2017 ‘Best Occasional Boutique’, this

Crème showcases their large collections on their beautiful website,

team of fashion experts will help put

www.lacremeboutique.com, giving you the perfect little window into

together a truly beautiful and uniquely

their fashion haven..

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, Deborah Veale, Sookyoung Song, the iconic Philip Treacy, and bespoke in-house milliner, Aoife Harrison.

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

Featherhead Designs and Elizabeth Tumilty’s couture bespoke millinery are handcrafted in Ardee, Co. Louth.

Elizabeth specialises in creating unique, elegant hats and headpieces for weddings and ladies’ days at the races; each headpiece is handmade and hand-dyed from start to finish with a huge emphasis placed on attention to detail.

Elizabeth’s vintage-inspired bridal and mother of the bride headpieces evoke a feeling of old Hollywood glamour, from pearl and Swarovski crystal encrusted headpieces to glamorous bird cage veils with elaborate detailing. She also creates leather and crystal crowns that are quite on trend at the moment. Elizabeth offers both a bespoke service and hat rental service of her one-of-akind designs. www.featherheaddesigns.com

100 I IWD Feature I Mother of the Bride

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, Synan O’Mahony and much more.

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

Featherhead Designs Unique Bespoke Millinery

Designed & hand-crafted

by Elizabeth Tumilty Ardee, Co Louth +353 86 841 2851 ElizabethTumilty@outlook.ie

featherheaddesigns.com

Venues

Leading Wedding

Venues Leading Wedding

C

hoosing 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.

The Anner Hotel The 4 star Anner Hotel and Leisure Club, Thurles, Co. Tipperary is a wonderful wedding venue, with private gardens, a beautiful banqueting suite, and experienced and professional staff. Our team will work with you to build for you the wedding day of your dreams.

Under new ownership since 2018, the Anner Hotel Thurles is now undergoing an extensive refurbishment of the bedrooms and outdoor areas, making this wedding venue a must look for the most discerning brides and grooms. Packages are available to suit all budgets and tastes, contact our wedding co-ordinator Deirdre Crowe for more information on 0504 21799.

The Anner Hotel Beautiful Surroundings for the Ultimate Wedding Experience Email events@annerhotel.ieannerhotel.ie 0504 21799

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

102 I IWD I Leading Wedding Venues

Packages from

€62 per perso

n

TH WEDDING SHOWCASE SUNDAY 6 JAN& 2019 1pm - 4pm Dates still available in 2019 2020 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

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

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

104 I IWD I Leading Wedding Venues

A Dream Venue only 30 minutes from Dublin

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

Venues

Leading Wedding

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

Conyngham Arms Hotel Located in the quaint manor village of Slane in the heart of the Boyne Valley, The Conyngham Arms is adorned with touches of French country style décor creating an inherent charming atmosphere.

This former Coaching Inn, has been hosting great parties for hundreds of years and is full of warmth and charm. ‘The Lavender Suite’ which can seat up to 150 for dining, is located to the rear of the hotel and opens out onto an elevated terrace abundant with pots of lavender with steps leading down to the landscaped gardens complete with fountain.

Church or Civil, Black Tie or Boho, Trendy or Traditional, whatever your style we welcome you all. Exclusively yours for your special day, we give to you both our very best in planning each and every element of your day.

Call us on 041 9884444 or email weddings@conynghamarms.ie and arrange to come along for a look around, a coffee and chat whilst you get a feel for our lovely place.

Tel: 041 9884444 E: weddings@conynghamarms.ie www.conynghamarms.ie

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

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

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

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

Errigal House The Errigal Country House Hotel is nestled deep within the beautiful lake country region of Irelands Ancient East in Cavan. This exclusive venue is a premium 4 star hotel and wedding venue. Its location will enchant you and your guests on your very special day. The hotel itself is lovingly kept and managed by the Kelly family; who personally work with you to guarantee you a wonderful wedding experience.

The character of this charming venue will leave you spellbound. The surrounding countryside will enhance your memories of your special day. The Errigal has a reputation for service and style, so make your fairytale come true, and start your happily ever after at the Errigal Country House Hotel.

Errigal Country House Hotel, Cootehill, Co. Cavan www.errigalhotel.com 049 - 5556901 info@errigalhotel.com

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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 breath-taking 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.

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.

The Garryvoe Hotel The Garryvoe hotel is an independent, family-owned and run, four-star hotel in East Cork. Their unique message is built around the stunning beachside location, glamorous ballroom, split-level ocean-view bridal suite coupled with amazing food, impeccable management & imaginative service.

The team go the extra mile and then some; ensuring that each and every wedding is an unforgettably, memorable experience for you and your guests. They can host small intimate weddings or weddings of up to 300 guests; and can do set menus or á la carte. Garryvoe Hotel weddings are all about you; you’ll not notice this, but they will be watching every detail, quietly behind the scenes.

The Garryvoe Hotel recently won Ireland’s Best Waterside Wedding Venue 2019 at the Weddings online awards along with Munster and Ireland’s Wedding Co-ordinator of the Year 2019 (Ben Sharkey) Garryvoe Hotel are also approved to host Civil Weddings and Civil Partnership Ceremonies with a number of sea view rooms and outside terrace spaces available.

For more information visit www.garryvoehotel.com or Tel: (021) 4646718

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

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White Diamond Events Wedding Planning With over 20 years of Event Management experience in locations all over Ireland and abroad, we know exactly what’s required to make your day run perfectly for you!

We offer a bespoke service like no other, so you can decide exactly how you want your day to go and what budget you want to spend. We have listened to clients for many years about what they do or don’t want and now, following a number of enquiries, we’re bringing our wealth of event management experience to the wedding sector giving you access to some of the best suppliers and venues in the business at home and abroad.

WHITE DIAMOND EVENTS 01 5133762 /086 8221751 Email: info@whitediamondevents.ie Web: whitediamondevents.ie

Weddings I IWD Feature I 109

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.

Ph: 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 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 Ph:094 9545400

Lough Rynn Castle Lough Rynn is more than just a wedding venue, it is a lovingly restored 19th century castle home. This unique, luxurious, fairy-tale setting, with its secluded location, breath taking views and classic romanticism, is the perfect backdrop against which to begin your life together. The Walled Gardens at Lough Rynn truly are unmatched for photo opportunities; allow the concierge to chauffer you to the Gardens and around the Estate with your photographer to take some perfect pictures. Lough Rynn Castle delivers impeccable, unobtrusive service that is never compromised. Guests can relax under the careful attention of the staff and enjoy an exquisite selection of gourmet foods and wines. Can you imagine a more perfect day?

The manicured Lawns provide a breath-taking setting for a Champagne or Drinks reception on a Summer’s day - and the Castle’s backdrop is equally spectacular for a Winter Wedding.

To Sample the atmosphere please contact Ph: 071 9632700 email: enquiries@loughrynn.ie Lough Rynn Castle, Mohill, Co Leitrim

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KC 210x297summer.qxp_Layout 1 08/03/2019 17:11 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 €75pp

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

CASTLE HOTELS

Venues

Leading Wedding

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, Wedding Packages available from €39pp. Alternatively you can choose from the Menu Selector to create your own unique wedding package. The Marina Room with its spacious, bright, classic décor caters for 280 guests. Opening out onto the new terrace and marina garden, the hotel encapsulates the peace and tranquillity of this stunning river backdrop, with Wedding photographs capturing everlasting memories to treasure forever. For more intimate celebrations, the stylish, contemporary Waterfront has dining for up to 70 family and friends. Civil Ceremonies can take place in The Gallery, Marina Room or on the terrace outside. Whether your wedding is traditional or a more relaxed informal gathering, The Lord Bagenal Inn has something for you #yourweddingyourway www.lordbagenal.com Ph: 0599 774000

The Millhouse Bespoke weddings in an exclusive wedding venue.

The Millhouse, Slane is a stunning Georgian manor house on the banks of the River Boyne, just 40 mins from Dublin. A combination of old world charm and contemporary design creates a unique luxury wedding venue.

Surrounded by a wonderful riverside garden, couples can get married in the Orchard, on the front lawn or in the dramatic Old Mill ceremony room, a unique setting full of character, original brick work, exposed beams, chandeliers and rustic charm.

Spectacular wedding banquets are held in the Pavilion, a light-filled, mirrored, dining room with Chiavari chairs and a fairy-light canopy creating an atmospheric wedding which looks just as impressive in the darker winter months as it does in the summer.

The Millhouse team are passionate and committed to creativity and perfection which combines to make the Millhouse a very unique, exclusive wedding venue with 15 individually luxurious en-suite bedrooms to make your own exclusive country house for your special day.

At dusk when the river has a golden glow and the Orchard lanterns illuminate the pathways, The Millhouse has a truly magical atmosphere. Tel: (0) 41 982 0878 W: themillhouse.ie

The Radisson Blu Hotel & Spa, Cork If you’ve been searching for a history-steeped Wedding venue with a very modern attitude to wining and dining your guests, you’re on to a winner.

Combining contemporary with vintage charm, The Radisson Blu Hotel & Spa, Cork is a Wedding venue that truly captures your imagination. When it comes to organising the most important day of your life, it is important to choose a venue that is known for its professionalism and dedication to making each and every one of their couples feel unique and special.

From the moment you book your wedding date, their experienced team and dedicated Wedding Coordinator will work with you to ensure you have the perfect day. With a reputation for luxurious comfort and fine food with service to match, this will ensure you and your guests have a day to remember. Whether you opt for a small intimate Wedding or a more traditional style, they can cater for all tastes and all budgets.

Email Joanne on joanne.odonoghue@radissonblu.com or Call 021 429 7000

The Radisson Blu St Helen’s Hotel Set in luxurious surroundings and expansive four acres of garden, the 1750 stately mansion offers effortless elegance with a warm and welcoming atmosphere. From perfect pictures and amazing food to exclusive touches and an unrivalled location.

The Radisson Blu St. Helen’s Hotel Dublin offers three amazing private dining suites to choose from, each one having its own unique style and character and catering for 20 – 240 guests. St. Helen’s Hotel has a number of elegant and unique areas, perfect for civil ceremonies, garden blessings, traditional weddings and post wedding celebrations.

St. Helen’s Wedding Consultants are available to offer advice and assist you with planning every detail of your wedding day, from reserving your date to co-ordinating all the finer details. Contact Kaela or Zuzana on (01) 2186054 or email: weddings.st.helens.dublin@radissonblu.com Also visit their website. www.radissonblu.ie/sthelenshotel-dublin and check out their Facebook page www.facebook.com/RadissonBluStHelensDublin

112 I IWD I Leading Wedding Venues

E MA IL JOA N N E . O DO N O G HU E @ RAD I S S ON B LU. C O M O R CA L L 0 21 429 70 0 0

If you’ve been searching for a history-steeped Wedding venue with a very modern attitude to wining and dining your guests,

you’re on to a winner.

From the moment you book with us, our experienced team and our dedicated Wedding Coordinator will work with you to ensure you have the perfect day.

Our reputation for luxurious comfort and fine food with service to match, will ensure you and your guests have a day to remember.

Venues

Leading Wedding

Rathsallagh Country House Imagine the Wedding of your dreams in your own 17th Century Country House with its romantic setting on 500 acres of rolling fields, thousands of mature trees and long winding avenue ensuring your complete privacy. Rathsallagh is more than a wedding venue, with its open log and turf fires, luxurious dining room, bed rooms and drawing rooms it is your very own private Country House for your special day.

Rathsallagh is a member of the prestigious Blue Book and is regarded as the ultimate Country House wedding venue in Ireland. Less than 50 minutes from Dublin and in business for over 30 years Rathsallagh can cater for Weddings from 50 to 240 guests and with its walled gardens and Orangery Rathsallagh is ideal for civil ceremonies and blessings.

Rathsallagh House, Dunlavin, Co. Wicklow. Tel: (045) 403 112.

Web: www.rathsallagh.com. Email: info@rathsallagh.com

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 soirĂŠe, 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

Step House Hotel The Step House Hotel is a four star family run boutique hotel located in the picturesque village of Borris, Co. Carlow at the foot of the Mount Leinster & The Blackstairs Mountains. The warm and welcoming atmosphere of the hotel is designed to indulge, relax and unwind you. From the original Gothic detailing of the entrance to the restrained opulence of the interior, this is a place to soothe and inspire. The Step House Hotel has been specifically designed to host the most romantic and personal weddings. The Ballroom has been luxuriously tailored to facilitate weddings for a maximum of 200 Guests. The Cellar Restaurant & Residents Bar can also cater for wedding for up to 60 Guests. Beautifully crafted French arched doors lead out onto the landscaped garden with Mount Leinster and the Blackstairs Mountains peering in the distance.

This idyllic country setting with its relaxed yet elegant function room, exceptional cuisine and traditional hospitality will leave friends and family with memories to treasure forever. www.stephousehotel.ie Tel: 059 9773209 weddings@stephousehotel.ie

Summerhill Country House The Summerhill Country House, situated in the picturesque village of Enniskerry, is the ideal country house venue for your wedding. The Avondale Suite can accommodate from 80 to 250 guests. Fully licenced for civil ceremony you can enjoy your entire wedding in this wonderful location. Set in five acres of private grounds this 87 bedroom country house is one of the leading wedding specialists in the Dublin/Wicklow region. Concentrating on just one wedding reception per day affords them the opportunity to provide you and your party with the intimate service and the attention to detail you would deserve and expect. A fantastic selection of packages are available all year round and packages and menus can also be customised to suit your individual requirements. The experienced Wedding team are always on hand to guide and assist you through your preparations. Every wedding booked at the Summerhill Country House receives over 12 complimentary extras. Every Sunday is a Wedding Open Day so why not visit the Summerhill Country House, Enniskerry.

For information call 01 – 2867928. E: weddings@summerhillhousehotel.com W: www.summerhillhousehotel.com

114 I IWD I Leading Wedding Venues

Step House Hotel & Restaurant

Step House

Experience the Exceptional Hotel & country house hotel, A four star family run boutique Restaurant designed to host the most intimate and personal weddings.

Step House

Step House Hotel Carlow Borris, Co. Carlow, Ireland

T: +353 (0) 599 773 209 E: weddings@stephousehotel.ie

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Venues

Leading Wedding

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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From today until your day, we do

Tulfarris is a perfect choice for your dream wedding day. Located just 40 minutes from Dublin, your guests will experience exquisite surroundings and gourmet cuisine against the spectacular backdrop of the Blessington Lakes and Wicklow Mountains.

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

2019

Bridesmaids ColleCtions

Colour By Kenneth Winston www.colourbykennethwinston.com

118 I IWD Feature I Bridesmaids

Bespoke Weddings at Clayton Hotel Sligo

• Beautiful Pegasus Ballroom • Stunning Canis Major Chapel for Civil Ceremonies, Blessings & Drinks Receptions • Spa, Hair & Beauty salon on site • Private drinks reception area • 162 bedrooms which includes 89 suites • Spectacular exterior, beautifull kept lawns, overlooked by the magnificent Benbulben Mountain, a perfect photo location • Dedicated Wedding Manager For further information please contact Sandra O’Hara our Wedding Sales Manager on +353 71 9119000 or sohara@claytonhotels.com

2019

Bridesmaids ColleCtions

allure Bridesmaids www.allurebridals.com

120 I IWD Feature I Bridesmaids

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. chelsea.mccann@fitzpatricks.com www.fitzpatrickcastle.com

New from the author of The Irish Bride’s Survival Guide Planning, organisation, fashion advice, emotional support and bags of positivity - what’s expected of a modern bridesmaid these days?

Natasha Mac A’Bháird’s handy new guidebook will lead bridesmaids through the entire process: from wedding dress shopping, to planning the hen party, to potential bridesmaid dilemmas and solutions, as well as duties on and ahead of the big day and lots more!

With real life stories, practical tips and helpful suggestions, this book is both entertaining and extremely helpful.

The ultimate guide to everything a bridesmaid needs to know!

Available from all good bookshops and www.obrien.ie now ISBN: 9781788490443

IWD Half Page White.indd 1

€9.99/£8.99 HB

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2019

Bridesmaids ColleCtions

rosa Clara Bridesmaids www.rosaclara.es

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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 ARE BY APPOINTMENT ONLY

The Millhouse, The Old Mill, Slane, Co. Meath. Tel: 041 9820878 Email: information@themillhouse.ie Web: www.themillhouse.ie

2019

Bridesmaids ColleCtions

sorella Vita Bridesmaids www.essensedesigns.com

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Š - ERIC MOLIMARD PHOTOGRAPHY

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

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

For all enquiries please contact: claire@thelodgeac.com

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

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Thailand

126 I IWD Feature I Honeymoons

T

here is a reason Thailand has become one of the top choices for honeymooners from across the globe. This stunning destination offers a world of contrasting delights that will leave you with memories to last a lifetime.

Phi Phi Islands The Phi Phi Islands—Phi Phi Don and Phi Phi Leh—are just a short boat trip from Phuket, and they are the perfect place to relax and enjoy each other’s company. Renowned as one of the

Thailand offers honeymooners a wealth of

is ideal for honeymooners. Choose the Jungle

most gorgeous spots in all of Thailand, they are

options. Visit the vibrant city of Bangkok with

Lake Safari to truly get a taste of Elephant Hills.

nicely removed from the hustle and bustle of

its temples, the stunning beaches of Phuket,

This safari runs for three days and two nights,

the city. Phi Phi Leh is an inhabited island, full

or the beautiful island of Phi Phi or go off the

with a planned itinerary so you can relax and

of fun bars, restaurants, and island activities.

beaten track and discover Thailand’s hidden

enjoy the many wonderful activities available,

gems and unspoilt areas.

such as the boat trip on Cheow Larn Lake and

While one side of the island is famous for

the spectacular guided trek through Thailand’s

Bangkok

nightlife and bars that pour out onto its

unique rainforest environment. There are many

beaches, the other offers tranquillity and

The city of Bangkok offers honeymooners a

evening activities to look forward to, including

beautiful island resorts, giving you the best of

romantic getaway full of exciting attractions,

a movie presentation, dance performances, and

both worlds in one place!

boasting beautiful temples, river cruises, and

cooking demonstration.

many wonderful restaurants.

Phi Phi Don, made famous by the 2000 movie

Visit Wat Pho, the old city, for some culture and history and stand side by side with the famous 46m gold leaf reclining Buddha statue. If giant Buddhas aren’t your thing, Wat Pho is also

Vibrant Cities, Stunning Beaches, Beautiful Islands, Amazing Temples...

considered the leading school of massage in

The Beach starring Leonardo di Caprio, is an uninhabited island that offers the stunning picturesque scenery that Thailand is famous for.

It is home to Maya Bay, a stunningly beautiful bay that’s sheltered by 100-metre high cliffs

Thailand. A perfect way to kick off your first trip

You and your other half will feed, wash, and

on three sides. Once untouched, it has now

as a married couple is by spending a romantic,

interact with Asia’s largest and most beautiful

become a top tourist attraction, with tours

relaxing day together being pampered by those

land animal. This is a very touching experience

offered frequently throughout the day. While

most skilled.

in an almost untouched environment. Share

there are no hotels on the island, some trips do

the

for

offer the amazing experience of camping out

Go see Bangkok’s iconic symbols and biggest

unforgettable memories that you will both talk

under the stars—something that would make

attractions, including its famous and truly

about for years to come.

any trip magical.

Temple of Dawn. Take a boat ride down the

Phuket

Koh Samui

Chao Praya River and explore the ancient capital

The holiday hub of Phuket, or the ‘Pearl of the

A sun lover’s holiday paradise, Koh Samui or

city of Ayutthaya on a romantic river cruise.

South’ as it has become known, is Thailand’s

the ‘Coconut Island’ as it is affectionately

Bangkok Sightseeing River Cruise gives you

largest island and is incredibly diverse with

known, is Thailand’s third largest island resort.

the option to choose between a traditional rice

rocky and sandy beaches, tall cliffs, forests,

No longer the backpacker’s secret hideaway it

barge or a modern luxury cruiser, depending on

waterfalls, and temples. Phuket caters to

once was, Koh Samui now rivals Phuket as one

what you honeymooners fancy.

all, with a variety of holiday resorts offering

of Thailand’s most popular holiday destinations.

accommodation from backpackers and simple

The island still retains its laidback atmosphere

If you are a pair of foodies, there is no way

guesthouses to modern luxury hotels, though

though, with friendly locals, delicious delicacies,

you will want to miss Chinatown in Bangkok.

the beachfront bungalows on unspoilt stretches

and some not-too-commercial local attractions,

Plan an evening out here for a unique dining

of white sand are rarer now than they used to

like a crocodile farm and butterfly garden, to

experience. The vibrant street-side cuisine after

be.

keep visitors entertained. At night, you can

most

surreal

moments

together

awesome temples, most notably the Wat Arun

sunset draws huge crowds, and the place is

let loose with open-air discos and music bars

just as busy during the day. Visit during major

There are numerous activities to enjoy in or

festivals such as the Chinese New Year to really

near Phuket, including mountain biking, bungy

see Chinatown at its best.

jumping, and golf. It’s also a great spot to base

From Koh Samui, you can also take a boat over

yourself and take day tours to nearby islands

Elephant Hills Jungle Safari

to Ko Pha Ngan, most famous for its full moon

and areas, including Phang Nga Bay, Koh Phi

parties. Once a month, thousands of travellers

Make your honeymoon extra special with an

Phi, and the beaches and islands around Krabi.

and party revellers flock to the beaches of Hat

authentic Thailand elephant experience. The

There is plenty to do on the island, whatever

Rin to dance, sing, and be merry under the

Elephant Hills camp located in Khao Sok is one

your budget, and several offshore islands are

moon and stars—definitely an exciting one for

of the most popular tours to take in Thailand and

ideal for snorkelling and scuba diving.

the bucket list!

throbbing in the darkness.

Getting there If you think Thailand is the perfect honeymoon choice for you, Hayes & Jarvis is on hand to help make your dreams come true. Call 01 4331020 or visit hayesandjarvis.ie

Honeymoons I IWD Feature I 127

H&J_Irish Wedding Diary_March2019.indd 1

07/03/2019 12:35

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

Marry Me Abroad Asis’s Top Destination Weddings While it might seem like a long way to travel for a wedding, Asia offers something completely different to the traditional Irish wedding.

If you have friends and family spread around the world, one of these stunning locations might be right up your street.

Palace Hotel Tokyo

Set in the heart of Tokyo’s Maranouchi district, with sweeping views of the surrounding Imperial Palace gardens, planning a wedding at Palace Hotel Tokyo is easy. The hotel has six different wedding venues – two ceremony venues, including a Japanese Shinto shrine and a beautiful chapel featuring a thin archway of handwoven metal rods, as well as four ballrooms. The hotel also offers a bespoke ‘Vera Wang Wedding Package’, which includes a gown from the Vera Wang Bridal boutique in Ginza in addition to catering, a wedding cake, beauty stylists, inhouse photographer, floral arrangements, and accommodation in a hotel suite.

Mantra Samui Resort

Tucked away in the jungle overlooking Bophut beach, Mantra Samui Resort gives couples a tropical backdrop for their nuptials, without the sandy implications. The resort’s alfresco terrace above the pool area can be converted into a ceremony location, replete with tropical flowers and stunning views over the Gulf of Thailand.

Two types of wedding packages are available. The Thai ceremony includes a water blessing by holy monks and a traditional long drum procession with silver and gold gate passing. Prices are affordable and start from THB 80,000 (USD 2,500), inclusive of planning services with a wedding planner, the ceremony, flowers, a romantic private rooftop dinner, the bride’s hair and makeup, spa treatment for two, wedding cake and bottle of champagne, couple’s breakfast, and airport transfers. Western style weddings are performed by a priest and include a similar array of services with rates beginning at THB 70,000 (USD 2,200). The property can accommodate up to 38 guests.

The Anam Cam Ranh

Since the Anam celebrated its grand opening in April 2017, it has played host to intimate and large wedding ceremonies on a vast lawn overlooking a pristine stretch of beach. For weddings, the resort sets up an arch festooned in fresh flowers as well as aisle decorations and chairs against a backdrop featuring turquoise waters and dramatic headlands. With more than 300 sunny days a year on average in Cam Ranh, chances are it will be clear blue skies on the big day. The resort’s planners take care of the all-important wedding cake, sparkling wine, and an MC for a cocktail reception and dinner with the option of a large formal dining event in the resort’s elegant ballroom. A myriad of settings across the Anam, including reflecting pools and cobblestone pathways,

130 I IWD Feature I Weddings Abroad

also make for striking wedding photo backdrops.

Grand Hyatt Taipei

Located in downtown Taipei, the iconic Grand Hyatt Taipei is one of Asia’s top choices for destination weddings. The 850-room property offers 11 wedding venues, including an elegant Grand Ballroom, designed by the renowned New York-based interior designer, Tony Chi, which can cater to 1,200 guests.

For newlyweds looking to make a dramatic entrance, a special runway carpet can be rolled out that creates a dazzling crystal effect using the latest specialeffects equipment. The property even boasts a private helipad where couples can pose for wedding snaps with the hotel’s famous neighbour, Taipei 101.

Meanwhile, a team of in-house wedding planners, floral designers, and top chefs will work with the couple to create their perfect day.

Sofitel Legend Metropole Hanoi

Located in Hanoi’s scenic French Quarter, the Metropole has long been a prime venue for nuptials and photo shoots. The historic hotel’s ‘Legendary Wedding Package’ bundles a range of customisable packages together with the services of a personal wedding planner. Three venues within the hotel – La Veranda, Le Balcon, and Thang Long Hall – can be tailored to the bride and groom’s wishes, as can a French or Vietnamese menu for the dinner reception. The property’s in-house jazz band, spa vouchers, bespoke gifts for guests, and other options are incorporated into the various packages, including accommodation in the hotel’s most luxurious quarters for the couple on their wedding night.

Newlyweds looking for a nostalgic escape can book the very same suite where Charlie Chaplin and Paulette Goddard stayed during their honeymoon in 1936.

Chedi Club Tanah Gajah Ubud

Renowned Indonesian architect and interior designer Hendra Hadiprana built Tanah Gajah for his own family. The Hadipranas celebrated intimate weddings at the Balinese garden pavilion watched over by stone Ganeshas, hosted colourful cocktail parties at The Bird Lounge alongside the private aviary, and held dinners at a restaurant pavilion surrounded by iconic rice paddies and grander gatherings in the grassy amphitheatre surrounded by tropical foliage.

Today, after its conversion from a private estate to one of Bali’s most acclaimed boutique hotels, guests follow in the Hadipranas’ footsteps. The Chedi Club is currently offering three different wedding packages – Garden Bliss, the White Wedding, and Balinese Heavenly Unity Wedding – and it customises five different venues on property for events that can accommodate between 10 and 100 people.

Banyan Tree Samui

A team of onsite wedding planners, or Romance Concierges, cater to every whim of couples who dream of getting hitched on a tropical white-sand beach. The resort is totally secluded within a private palmfringed bay, and guests have the added luxury of staying in magnificent hillside villas, each with its own infinity pool and 24-hour butler service.

This resort specialises in not only white weddings on the beachfront but also Thai Buddhist ceremonies where groom and bride are dressed in traditional Siamese robes.

Weddings Abroad I IWD Feature I 131

The Real Wedding of

Alexandra & Mason In Malta With Sarah Young Wedding Planners on 3rd September 2018

132 I IWD Travel I Wedding Abroad

M

ason and I both attended the University of Miami, but met in New York City during summer break. Mason will tell you that he knew from the moment we first met that our connection was significant. year anniversary, Mason proposed to me in a garden in Valletta. He had designed my

more intimate wedding, and loved the fact

engagement ring himself, with the help of a

that a destination wedding grants you more

jewelry designer I used to work for. The whole

time to enjoy yourself and your guests. We’ve

experience was everything I could have hoped for, complete with a photographer to capture the moment.

He proposed on our first day in Malta, after which we had the rest of our vacation to celebrate with my family. It was during this time that we looked at each other one day

On our fifth trip together to Malta, which was also our five-year anniversary, Mason proposed to me in a garden in Valletta.

We met through Brooke, a good friend of

and said, let’s get married in Malta. It’s a place

mine, who in fact traveled from LA to Malta

that has hosted so many happy memories for

to attend our wedding this past September.

us, and one that our friends and family have

been to so many beautiful weddings that seem

Mason and I didn’t end up officially dating until

been hearing about for years, but that no one

to fly by, and wanted to make our wedding as

some time later because Mason graduated

has visited. We also knew that we wanted a

memorable an experience as possible.

from college before I did, and it wasn’t until two years later when I moved to NYC that our paths crossed again; it turned out that my new NYC roommate had an older brother who was Mason’s best friend, so we coincidentally ended up at dinner together one night, and instantly started again where we had left off.

My father has lived abroad my whole life, and around the time when Mason and I started dating, he had just relocated to Malta. This being so, the first trip we took together was to Malta, where Mason met my dad; it was a country where neither of us had been before.

It turned into an annual trip that we took every summer to see my family. On our fifth trip together to Malta, which was also our five-

Wedding Abroad I IWD Travel I 133

I found my Martina Liana wedding dress on the first day I went looking for one, at the last stop of the day in New York City. The bridesmaid dresses were by Monique Lhuillier.

Mason and the groomsmen opted for light-gray suits by Calvin Klein, which were suitable for Malta’s September heat. We each had eight bridesmaids and groomsmen who were However, then came the logistics of how to plan

a mix of family and our closest college friends.

a wedding from thousands of miles away. My

My cousin Stephanie served as my matron of

dad was quick to realize that without a wedding

honor, while her daughter, my goddaughter

planner, he was going to become my point

Christina, was our flower girl. Mason’s two

person in Malta, so he found the most amazing

brothers served as his best men, while his

planner for me – Sarah Young Events and her

sister, who has become one of my closest

team. I actually planned the entire wedding

friends, served as a bridesmaid.

until the day. I don’t know what we would have done without Sarah’s guidance, along with her assistant Michelle, with whom I was in near constant communication with for almost a year.

They put together something that was beyond a dream wedding, and went more smoothly than I imagined was possible; once we got to Malta, I didn’t have to think about a thing.

an 18th-century country house. The ceremony and reception took place in the gardens, and we walked down the aisle to a string quartet playing “Hallelujah” by Jeff Buckley. We danced our first dance to Sam Smith’s acoustic version of “Latch.” The guests dined on mushroom risotto with mascarpone ice cream, seared

while only visiting Malta once before the event.

Mason did not see the wedding venue in person

We were married on September the 3rd, 2018 at

Mediterranean Sea bream, and lemon wedding

My dad found the most amazing planner for me, Sarah Young Events and her team. Once we got to Malta, I didn’t have to think about a thing.

cake. Many guests have told me that it was the best wedding cake they’ve ever had, and I do agree. Following the wedding, we traveled to Portugal and Greece, where we did almost nothing but relax, after a wonderful week in Malta with 135 of our closest family and friends.

This September, not long after we celebrate our first wedding anniversary, we will welcome our first child, a baby girl.

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

134 I IWD Travel I Wedding Abroad Photography by Shane Watts

★★

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.

136 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 137

Honeymoon Retreat

WEDDINGTRAVEL HONEYMOONS & WEDDINGS ABROAD Compiled by Alex Joyce

Remarkable Romance

Let your loved one know how much they mean to you with the ultimate romantic gesture.

The Perfect Honeymoon Retreat!

Arrive to Anantara the Palm Dubai for a 2-night stay in one of our Pool Beach Villa’s with a

Beautiful, Romantic and Intimate is the perfect description

private butler. One hundred red roses await in an expression of your heart. Spend the evening

for this unique boutique hotel, located just a 5-minute drive

on-board a personal luxurious yacht with Chef, sommelier and waiter serving you a 5-course

from the picturesque town of Lagos. With its historical

menu of caviar, sushi and premium seafood paired with your favourite beverage. Be awoken

buildings, wonderful food and panoramic ocean view amidst

each morning with a bubbly breakfast, before being whisked on the second day to the airport

lush, private Mediterranean gardens, the Boutique Hotel

by limousine. Travel to Male on Emirates Airlines for a 2-night stay at Anantara Kihavah

Vivenda Miranda is the perfect haven for an unforgettable

Maldives in a Beach Pool Villa soaking up the Maldivian sun.

honeymoon in the Western Algarve.

For more information visit https://www.anantara.com/en/palm-dubai.

www.vivendamiranda.com

Grand Opening

“With 500m of ocean frontage,

within close proximity of the Greg Norman-designed

this tropical setting is all the more

Bluffs Ho Tram Strip golf course, Phuoc Buu Nature

spectacular as the sun rises to the

Reserve and Binh Chau Hot Springs. Located 100km

left and goes down to the right in an

from Tan Son Nhat International Airport, the resort is

incredible arc over the East Sea each

easily accessible from Ho Chi Minh City and beyond.

day,” he said.

For

61-villa five-star property poised on a beach within easy reach of Ho Chi Minh City, will celebrate its grand opening in April.

“Ho Tram is fast developing a reputation as Ho Chi Minh City’s answer to New York’s Hamptons, Rome’s Naples and Sydney’s Blue Mountains; a go-to retreat where the well-heeled flock for a getaway that’s close by, upscale and restorative,” said the resort’s general manager Manuel Ferriol Argent.

138 I IWD Travel I Honeymoons

information

about

Meliá

Ho

Tram

In a fusion of Eastern and Western

Beach Resort, visit www.melia.com, email info@

elements,

meliahotram.com or call +84 (0) 254 3789 000.

striking

artwork

capturing

everyday scenes in Vietnam adorns the resort.

Meliá Ho Tram Beach Resort, a 152-room and

more

Doorwomen and waitresses wear bold, creative ao dai designed by Spanish outfit Chula Fashion. The vast semi open-air lobby makes for a dramatic first impression with views of a reflecting pool, a lake bordered by villas, and ocean at the horizon.

Surrounded by mangrove forests and the Ray River, Meliá Ho Tram Beach Resort basks in an average temperature of 28 degrees Celsius year-round and is

Sign up to TRAILFINDERS

Honeymoon Wishlist and we’ll contribute €100 to get you started.

When only award-winning travel will do 5 boutique CASA DE LA FLORA THAILAND

5 COCO BODU HITHI MALDIVES

5 + THE ST. REGIS RESORT MAURITIUS

7 NIGHTS FROM €1,799

7 NIGHTS FROM €2,299

7 NIGHTS FROM €2,349

SAVING OVER €1,000 Includes flights, private transfers, daily breakfast & a 50% early booking room discount

SAVING OVER €1,350 Includes flights, speedboat transfers, 2 FREE nights, a room discount & a FREE upgrade to half board

SAVING OVER €1,500 Includes flights, private transfers, half board & a 50% early booking room discount

• Beautiful infinity pool • Luxurious spa • Fitness centre • Library • Beachfront restaurant serving international food & a relaxing pool bar • Complimentary mini bar

• Stunning island retreat • All villas with private pools • Wealth of dining options • Beautiful overwater Coco Spa

• St. Regis Butler Service for all guests • Gourmet dining venues • Elegant & refined with contemporary touches • Dramatic Le Morne location

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 September & October 2019 departures .

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

03327 Irish Wedding Diary Spring Ad_ 210x297.indd 1

04/03/2019 09:49

Emirates Holidays’ Ultimate Pools

Every honeymooner wants to experience the perfect pool in an exotic locations with

WEDDINGTRAVEL HONEYMOONS & WEDDINGS ABROAD Compiled by Alex Joyce

The One & Only

stunning views. If this is your dream too, Emirates Holidays has revealed its top ten pools from across the world for all the inspiration you need.

Whether its dipping into South East Asia’s biggest pool at the JW Marriott, Khao Lak or sipping cocktails at Kanuhura, Maldives in their beachfront infinity pool, these hotels are truly some of the best the world has to offer.

Why not take advantage of Emirates Holidays deposit system which secures your holiday for as little as €100 per person upon purchase?* We’ve only got room for three of these fabulous pools but you can see the rest at emiratesholidays.ie.

TheFive One & Villas Star Only

One&Only The Palm, Dubai An oceanfront oasis of shady terraces and lush, palm strewn gardens, luxury doesn’t come in any purer form than this decadent resort. The One & Only boasts an opulent central pool that winds down to their private beach. The pool is surrounded by cabanas and is the ultimate place to relax after seeing the sights of this popular UAE destination.

Prices start at €1,369pp for 3 nights, based on two people sharing a Premier Room on a Half-Board basis, including return

Keemala, Thailand – The designs of the villas in this five-star resort have been

economy class flights with Emirates.

inspired by the stories, cultures, traditions and lifestyle of four groups of fictitious ancient Phuket settlers which add to the magic of the hotel. With all villas featuring their own pool, this hotel offers guests the chance to completely relax and unwind in total privacy.

Prices start at €1,845pp for 7 nights, based on two people sharing a Clay Pool Cottage on a B&B basis, including return economy class flights with Emirates.

Sixth Sense

Six Senses Koh Yao Noi, Thailand

–

Rustic decor and a lush, secluded location combine to create this Six Senses retreat on vibrant Phuket’s Phang Nga Bay. Channel serenity with yoga sessions overlooking the rolling ocean, this resort also boasts a panoramic infinity pool overlooking the ocean making you pinch yourself every time you swim to the edge.

Prices start at €1,815pp for 7 nights, based on two people sharing a Hideaway Pool Villa

140 I IWD Travel I Honeymoons

on a B&B basis, including return economy class flights with Emirates.

THE MOMENT WHEN HAPPY EVER AFTER BEGINS

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.

Start Your H appy Ever After In Turkey

G

et married in sight of some of the world’s bluest seas and prettiest beaches in Turkey. The Dalaman area, known as the Turquoise Coast, is famous for its shorelines. There’s a tally of places you can say your vows with the sun on your skin, from leafy hotel gardens, bright poolside terraces, and wrought-iron gazebos by the side of lakes.

From May to September, the temperature varies from 20–35 degrees Celsius, with practically no rainfall. Enjoy the cloudless skies and light breezes that catch your veil while you become newlyweds in the pine-clad hills of Turkey.

Turkey lends itself well to wedding celebrations.

You can make toasts with raki and animate your wedding breakfast guests by sharing platters of mezze.

If you’ve always pictured an on-location wedding, Turkey has the Blue Lagoon. If you’ve already got your something borrowed, old, and new, the water here can count as your blue.

This protected bay is a piercing turquoise colour.

Have your ceremony at dusk, and you can wed as the sunset turns the waters of the nature reserve the colour of your wedding band.

Honeymoons in this country are memory makers. Bathe in the hot springs at Pamukkale, explore the ancient ruins of Ephesus, and spoil yourselves with lengthy Turkish baths and oil massages in traditional hamams.

The Blue Lagoon

142 I IWD Feature I Weddings Abroad

For summer 2019 TUI have added Dalaman to its list of wedding and holiday destinations flying direct from Dublin Airport.

There is a wide range of hotels and resorts on offer where couples can say “I Do”.

TUI SENSATORI Resort Barut Fethiye TUI SENSATORI resorts are luxury holidays designed to fuel the senses in five-star surroundings and the TUI

SENSATORI

Resort Barut Fethiye in Turkey is no different.

It’s spread across 19 acres of land, and sits beside a hillside cloaked in sweetgum trees.

If that wasn’t enough, you’ve also got a stone beach that stretches for miles. The resort’s highlights include pools fringed by flora, restaurant menus serving everything from Asian to Turkish cuisine, and TUI SENSATORI’s signature wellbeing and children’s facilities.

There’s also candlelit dinner for 2 & breakfast in bed on offer for the wedding couple.

Holiday Village Turkey For something with more of a young family focus the Holiday Village Turkey is the perfect choice. This super-sized beachfront complex has got the lot–bars, restaurants, a bumper crop of activities, and a pool for every day of the week so it’s perfect for a couple with young children who want a wedding & family holiday in one. Weddings here take place under a decorated gazebo located on a large wooden deck under a thatched roof over water and, thanks to the hotel’s landscaped gardens and lagoon, there’s also an eye-catching backdrop.

TUI’s destination wedding packages in Dalaman offer excellent value with some hotels offering wedding packages from as little as €726. There are a number of different packages on offer to suit the super chic bride looking for the utmost luxury to the more budget conscious bride looking for something small & intimate or those with young families who want a wedding day in a family-friendly resort.

To find out more visit www.tuiholidays.ie or call the TUI wedding team on 1850 929 141.

Weddings Abroad I IWD Feature I 143

Truly Classic Honeymoons L

ooking for some inspiring ideas of where to honeymoon? At Classic Resorts, our dedicated reservations team have over 80-years’ experience of the best places to go. From the turquoise seas of the Caribbean to the vibrant cities of Asia, and African safaris to the deserts of Arabia, we have something for you! We can book a limo transfer to Dublin airport, provide VIP check and fast track you through security to start your honeymoon off right! Contact us by phone on 01 874 5000 to talk to our experts, or make an appointment to call in. Alternatively, you can email us at info@classicresort.ie.

Asia Africa

144 I IWD Feature I Honeymoons

Caribbean

n

T

he Caribbean has many islands and they are all quite different.

With sunshine year-round and temperatures around 25 degrees, be prepared for some liquid sunshine during our summer months.

St. Lucia

St Lucia

Grenada

Mexico

Grenada is dubbed the ‘Spice Isle’ because

Mexico has recently become one of the top

the hilly main island is home to numerous

Caribbean Sea destinations for Irish couples.

nutmeg plantations. Its capital is St. George’s,

With its white sandy beaches, great water

St. Lucia is one the most tropical islands in

whose colourful homes, Georgian buildings

sports, Mayan culture, and great nightlife, there

the Caribbean. With its rain forest and Piton

and early-18th-century Fort George, overlook

is plenty to see and do. A stay at the 5* UNICO

Mountains dominating the skyline, it’s a very

narrow Carenage Harbour. To the south is

2087 adults-only resort for 7 nights on an all-

beautiful island. 4* Rendezvous is a couple’s

Grand Anse Beach, with resorts and bars. This

inclusive basis, in an Alcoba Ocean View room,

resort for over-18 adults only, and is provided

beautiful island can be combined with Barbados

starts from €1799pp, including flights, taxes

on an all-inclusive basis. This means you know

for a lovely twin-centre holiday. A 7-night all-

and transfers. Quote ref: 83123.

what your honeymoon will cost before you

inclusive holiday at the 5* Sandals Grenada

travel, with all meals and drinks, entertainment

Resort & Spa starts from €2499 per person

Barbados

(pp). Quote ref: 83119

Barbados Barbados is one of the best know

perfect choice for your wedding or honeymoon.

islands in the Caribbean and has plenty to

A 7-night stay starts from €2249pp, including

offer. Take a visit to a local rum shack to meet

flights, taxes and transfers. Honeymooners

recent

the locals, or a trip to Bridgetown, the island’s

receive chilled sparkling wine in the room on

times, has become extremely popular with

capital, for some great duty-free shopping. You

arrival, and one complimentary Honeymoon

honeymooners, families and couples. This is

can visit the Andromeda botanical gardens, go

Massage per stay. Couples booking the Luxury

due to the great value for money offered by

on a 4x4 adventure, or try some water sports.

Beachfront Suite can have the Honeymoon

Dominican Republic The

Dominican

Republic,

over

and non-motorised water sports included. It’s a

the 5* all-inclusive resorts, and its white sandy

Massage in their room, and are also given one

beaches with tropical palm trees. The beaches

The new 4* Wave Hotel & Spa by Elegant

complimentary honeymoon turndown service,

offer some picturesque places for a marriage

Hotels offers contemporary beachfront luxury

including candlelight, scattered petals and

ceremony. A 7-night stay at the 5* Dreams

on the West Coast, on an all-inclusive basis.

soft music, on the first night of their stay. A

Dominicus La Romana resort, in a Deluxe

Honeymooners receive a bottle of sparkling

standard turndown service is offered on all

Tropical View room, on an all-inclusive basis,

wine, and flower petals on the bed on arrival.

remaining nights. There is a weekly beachside

starts from €1499pp. Honeymooners receive a

Prices for a 7-night stay in a Standard guest

Honeymooners exclusive social event and,

welcome letter, fresh fruit, a bottle of sparkling

room on an all-inclusive basis start from

if you are interested in getting married, this

wine, a special turn down service, breakfast in

€2049pp, including flights, taxes and transfers.

beautiful resort offers free weddings for stays

bed with mimosas, and 15% discount on all spa

Quote ref: 83124

of 7 nights or more, (additional legal fees

treatments. Quote ref: 83210

Grenada

apply). Quote ref: 83125

Domincan Republic

Mexico Honeymoons I IWD Feature I 145

A

frica and the Indian Ocean have long been a favourite destination for honeymoons. The exotic islands of Mauritius, The Seychelles, and The Maldives are paradises waiting to be explored. Combine your stay in South Africa to include Capetown, wine lands and a safari to really top off your honeymoon.

Asia and Beyond....

Hong Kong & Bali

Hong Kong

Kenya

One of the world’s most exciting holiday destinations, Bali has always had a special attraction for the international traveller. The beauty of Bali is that it has everything

Dubai

– beaches, mountains, jungle, thousands of shops, amazing restaurants, nightlife, and the most beautiful people, with a culture steeped in tradition and the Hindu religion. It is a vibrant place in parts, and untouched in

Maldives

others. Bali is known as ‘The Island of the Gods’ and is a true paradise for a great holiday. Combining this with a stopover in Hong Kong, with its shopping, sightseeing and

The Maldives & Dubai

a bottle of sparkling wine on arrival, and a spa

culinary experiences, we have put together a package

If a honeymoon is meant to be a celebration

treatment for honeymooners. You will then head

that includes 3 nights in 4* Kowloon Hotel in Hong Kong

of love in an intimate, secluded, and most

to Mauritius for a 7-night all-inclusive stay at the

(room only), where honeymooners will receive a bottle

importantly, beautiful setting, then the Maldives is

4* Canonnier Beachcomber Golf Resort & Spa,

of sparkling wine, chocolates and flowers on arrival, plus

the world’s best backdrop for all of these things.

which offers honeymooners a discount, plus a

a city tour and tram tickets, and then 7 nights in Bali at

There are endless ways to let the magic of the

bottle of sparkling wine and fruits in the room

the 5* Mulia Resort (BB), with honeymooners receiving

islands dazzle you on your holiday as a couple,

on arrival. Two-course lunches are provided

chocolates on arrival. This 10-night package starts from

whether it is a dinner under the stars, with the

during the whole stay in a selected restaurant.

€1999pp and includes all flights, transfers and hotel

occasional flicker of candle light to bring you

In addition, the groom receives one tropical

accommodation. Quote ref: 83132

back into the real world, or just lazing around in

elegance T-shirt and the bride receives one pareo.

your private villa watching the endless turquoise

This 11-night honeymoon starts from €3999pp,

waters. We have combined a stopover in Dubai

which includes all flights, taxes, transfers, and

for 3 nights bed & breakfast (BB) at the 5* Grand

hotel accommodation. Quote ref: 82130

Hyatt Dubai, and 7 nights all-inclusive at the 5*Amari Havodda Maldives in a Beach Villa. The

Kenya

Maldives stay includes a honeymooner’s special

One of the best places to see the wildebeest

treat of a romantic villa set up and a bottle of

migration and the ‘Big 5’, e.g. lion, elephant,

sparkling wine, plus a BBQ dinner on the beach.

on your game drives, is in the Massai Mara

This 10-night holiday starts from €2599pp. Quote

National Game Reserve. This amazing country

ref: 83127

offers you both an amazing safari experience and

Thailand

Thailand

relaxation on the beaches of Mombasa, before

Mauritius & Safari

heading home. We have put together a package

Thailand, known as the ‘Land of Smiles’, has long

If you are looking for a very special place to

to include return flights, taxes and transfers as

been a favourite with the Irish traveller. It offers many

spend your honeymoon, Mauritius is definitely

follows – Kilimanjaro safari to Mombasa Coast

beautiful islands with sandy beaches, vibrant cities,

the place for you. Every hotel on the island offers

safari, including one night’s accommodation in

culture, nightlife and much more. The luxury 5* The

extensive wedding and honeymoon packages.

Nairobi (BB), Amboseli National Park (FB), Tsavo

Vijitt Resort Phuket is charmingly ensconced in a garden

They can also help you in organising every single

West National Park (FB) and Taita Hills Game

setting, not too far from Phuket Town, and the airport.

detail of the ceremony. Combining this with

Reserve (FB). You then head off to the 4* Baobab

This accommodation is designed to relax and refresh

South Africa will really add adventure to your

Beach Resort & Spa for a 7-night all-inclusive stay

your senses, both visually and physically. Stay 7 nights

honeymoon. We have put together a package

in a standard room, with honeymooners receiving

(BB) and then head up to the 4* Elephant Hills Lake

to include flights from Dublin with 4 nights full

a bottle of wine, a fruit basket, and flowers on

Jungle Safari for 2 nights (FB). Learn about, and feed,

board (FB) at the 4* Kariega Game Reserve on

arrival, plus 20% off spa treatments. Quote ref:

the Asian elephants before you take a kayak through the

safari, with 2 game drives per day. This includes

81334

mangroves, and head up to the floating camp, where you will experience the amazing sights and sounds of the

For further information on any of these holidays please contact us at Classic Resorts, 24-25 Lower

jungle. This holiday costs €1699pp for 9 nights, including

Liffey Street, Dublin 1, Tel 01 8745000 Email info@classicresorts.ie Web: www.classicresorts.ie

flights, taxes and transfer. Quote ref: 83133

146 I IWD Feature I Honeymoons

Relaxing s n oo m y e Hon in Mexico 7 nights All Inclusive

€1899

UNICO 2087 in Riviera Maya Mexico Classic Resorts offers the best resorts in Mexico for your special occasions.

This new 5* Hotel UNICO 2087 offers you the Ultimate in All Inclusive, pp including daily Spa treatments, excursion and much more…

from including taxes

Set on the stunning white beaches of Riviera Maya, UNICO 20°87° immerses guests in the culture of the region, from the locally-inspired cocktails and cuisines to the art in the rooms. Three unique pools and holistic spa and wellness centre drive home a sense of relaxed luxury, while exciting pop-up events insert a touch of spontaneity into the experience.

At this adults only Riviera Maya all-inclusive hotel, each bright, spacious room is filled with local inspiration, from the art on the wall, to the patterns of the upholstery, to the handcrafted details throughout; they are a luxurious reflection of modern Mexico.

Unique dining experiences vary from elevated fine cuisine to a casual café setting, offering up a menu inspired by local provenance. A selection of spirits can be found at each bar and restaurant, accented by a mixologist-driven cocktail program.

We have some great savings for travel between June and October this year.

7 nights All Inclusive fr €1899pp Prices based on 2 sharing including flights from Dublin, taxes, transfers and accommodation on all Inclusive basis.

Travel between Jun & Oct 2019. Quote ref XXXX

Unico 20°87° is part of The Leading Hotels of the World TA167

Contact Classic Resorts for your personal quotation T: 01 8745000 • E: info@classicresorts.ie • W: www.classicresorts.ie.

24-25 Lwr Liffey Street, Dublin 1. 100% Irish owned and Bonded!

Everlasting Memories in The Island of Love

Protaras

I

t’s not just about saying ‘I do’… it’s about creating memories. And what better place to do it in than the island of love… the birthplace of Aphrodite?

According to legend, the ancient Greek goddess

prehistoric settlements to British colonial-style

of love and beauty was born of the sea foam at

buildings. It is not surprising that UNESCO

Petra tou Romiou. Legend tells that she rose

includes a number of the island’s sights on its

from the waves and was escorted on a shell to

World Heritage Sites list.

destination for your romantic getaway, your honeymoon, or your wedding ceremony all year round.

Cyprus offers a wealth of venues and options for all tastes, all budgets, and all love stories

this particular beach in the Pafos area.

Apart from its rich culture, Cyprus is blessed Cyprus is a small island with a long history and

with the beauty of nature’s best palette. The

a rich culture that spans over 10,000 years,

scenery of the island unfolds across glittering

making it one of the oldest civilisations in the

coasts, rolling mountains, fragrant forests, and

Mediterranean. As such, the island is an open-

rugged headlands. With more than 320 days

air museum comprised of monuments from

per year of sunshine, Cyprus is the perfect

148 I IWD Feature I Weddings Abroad

From nuptials on seaside piers and on-board yachts, to five-star spa resorts and wineries, and from civil ceremonies to religious blessings in quaint village taverns or lavish banquet halls, Cyprus offers a wealth of venues and options for all tastes, all budgets, and all love stories.

Agrotourist House Valva

Edro Ill Shipwreck

Larnaca Anargiroi Cave

Petra Tou Romiou

Millomeris Waterfall

Making it easy for you…

If the beauty of the island has not yet convinced

•

English widely spoken.

•

Stunning variety of different wedding

municipal wedding officers available to

venues, including beaches, yachts,

help you plan your event to suit both

you, perhaps the following will. There are

•

traditional villages.

•

A short flying time from the United

•

Simple marriage formalities with worldwide legality.

•

packaged weddings all available on

specialisation in beautiful bespoke

unique.

•

Wedding certificate given at the ceremony on the same day.

•

wedding planners available with a weddings.

•

available for something different and

marrying in other countries.

Ease of last-minute arrangements.

Highly experienced and professional

A range of bespoke, themed, and

weddings that follow the local customs

Significantly lower costs compared to

Highly experienced and professional

your vision and your budget.

•

the island. Traditional Cypriot village

Kingdom and all European countries.

•

•

castles, museums, wineries, and

so many reasons Cyprus wins the hearts of couples wishing to marry abroad, including

Larnaca

Family and friends can combine wedding with a holiday.

•

Delicious Mediterranean cuisine. Warm

Location provides a combination

and welcoming culture. Diverse activities

of wedding, blessing, and/or

including water sports, golf, sailing,

renewal of vows with holidays and

horse riding, walking, cycling, and even

honeymoons.

skiing and snowboarding in winter.

For more information you can visit our website www.visitcyprus.com, send us an email MariaSocratous@visitcyprus.com or give us a call +357-22691290.

Spa Roof Cermony Pafos

Lemesos

Lemesos

Weddings Abroad I IWD Feature I 149

#visitcyprus Tel: 00357 22 691290 Email: MariaSocratous@visitcyprus.com

Web: www.visitcyprus.com

Civil Ceremony Checklist

by Conor Clear

Vincent Van Gough said, ‘Great things are done by a series of small things brought together’, and just like a piece of art, your wedding day will come together step by step.

Choose your words Readings such as Shakespeare’s “Sonnet 116” add a touch of class to a ceremony, while The Power of Love by Reverend Currie can

One element that will set the tone for your big

Venue

day is the wedding ceremony, and one type

The fun part of planning a civil ceremony means

of ceremony that is growing in popularity in

that once you’ve done the registry office part, a

Ireland right now is the civil ceremony.

world of choices opens up before you. Whether

bring echoes of Harry and Meghan’s royal wedding. And don’t forget, your favourite band or musician’s lyrics can provide some nice readings too. Very personal.

it’s the Cliffs of Moher, your own back garden, There are a few things to think about when

or a hotel, the choice is yours. You could even

you’re planning a civil ceremony, but fear not,

have your ceremony on a beach if you’re brave

I’ve broken them down into a checklist of things

enough to face the Irish weather.

to keep in mind when creating a ceremony that you and your guests will remember forever.

If you’d prefer a venue, remember that there are venues that offer all-in-one packages, including a cake, a band, and a photographer.

Many venues will even have a list of suppliers that they can recommend, so don’t be afraid to ask your venue co-ordinator for advice.

The legals Regardless of what type of ceremony or

A civil wedding is an opportunity to create a personal day which reflects your personality Regarding vows, you can just write your own;

wedding you’re planning, you’ll still need give

often, vows written by a couple themselves will

three months’ notice of your intention to marry

really get the tears going. But don’t feel you

to the Births, Deaths, and Marriages section of the HSE. You will then need to arrange another

Rituals

appointment to do the legal signing. This is

There are lots of elements you can include that

when the legal marriage takes place. You’ll

will make your ceremony stand out. One of

also need two witnesses with you. As you can

my favourites is handfasting, where a couple’s

imagine, Fridays are busier than Mondays, so

hands are bound together. This is an ancient

make sure you get in early to book your date.

Irish tradition from which we get the terms

The HSE website will tell you everything you

‘Tying the knot’ and ‘Bonds of marriage’. Or

need to know.

why not try a ring warming ritual, or a wine box ceremony, where the couple places a fine

Many couples I’ve met like to go to the registry

wine into a special box and locks it? They open

office a day or two before their ceremony so

the box on a chosen anniversary, or when they

that it’s a part of a bigger wedding celebration.

have their first fight. Very romantic.

need to overthink it. If you want to take the pressure off, you can let your celebrant write your vows.

Above all, don’t be afraid to dream big. A civil wedding is an opportunity to create a personal day that reflects your personality, and there are no limits.

If you have any questions, or if you’d like some ceremony inspiration, you can contact Conor at conorclear@gmail.com, or you can check out his website conorclear.com

Weddings I IWD Feature I 151

Off Track

Honeymoons

WEDDINGTRAVEL HONEYMOONS & WEDDINGS ABROAD Compiled by Alex Joyce

If the idea of lazing on a beach is total boredom to you, here’s a few honeymoon ideas that will get the pulse racing, the blood circulating and the camera clicking as we take you to some of the worlds most rugged and beautiful honeymoon locations.

Sail Away

Sail Alaska’s Glacier Country on the 22-guest Safari Quest

In Alaska’s Inside Passage, cruise with just a handful of other guests, through the largest national forest in the United States (Tongass) where black and brown bears, mountain goats and bald eagles make their home. View Alaska’s massive glaciers and glide around in the remote bays of Glacier Bay National Park, with a full day dedicated to exploring this famed national park all aboard the intimate, casual and elegant Safari Quest. Pair this with an Alaska Wildland Collection land trip for a well-rounded action packed honeymoon adventure!

Sailing Indonesia: Jewels of Raja Ampat aboard the 24-guest Ombak Putih, as one of our staff did for her honeymoon. Spend time snorkeling, paddleboarding and exploring unique karst gumdrop islands among the marine wonderland of the coral triangle. This far off-the-grid (nearly in Papua New Guinea!) island vacation is the ideal way to relax and enjoy each other’s company without any worldly distractions. See www.adventuresmithexplorations.com

Sand ,Summits

&Adventure The sand dunes of the Atacama Desert and volcanoes of the Andes highlands are at the doorstep of this stylish adobe dwelling where guests lodge and dine between mountain hikes to summits over 16,000 feet high, horseback ride through red soil esplanades, hike through otherworldly landscapes and cycle into technicolor hills. They can also dip in the Puritama hot springs or sneak a peek at the stars through the telescope in a private observatory - after a traditional barbeque, music and dancing. See austinadventures.com/collection/

152 I IWD Travel I Honeymoons

WEDDINGTRAVEL HONEYMOONS & WEDDINGS ABROAD Compiled by Alex Joyce

Finding Nimmo

Located in the Great Bear Rainforest, accessible only by floatplane or helicopter, are 18 cabins, some built on stilts over the water, at the base of 5,000-foot Mt. Stephens. A waterfall runs through resort, suppling clean drinking water and green energy. Guests kayak on the lookout for black bear, heli-hike mountain ridges, whale watch on the Broughton Archipelago and fish for wild Pacific salmon.

See austinadventures.com/collection/

Explore at Home

If you’d rather just honeymoon in Ireland you can still get off the beaten track with the 12 day ‘Giant Irish Adventure’ – where we visit all the most romantic corners of Ireland! This epic 12-day Irish tour effortlessly explores more of Ireland than most Irish people will visit in their lifetime. From the Giant’s Causeway in the very northeast to the Blarney Stone in the south-west, the tour is filled with amazing and varied scenery, fantastic walks, great outdoor activity options. Not to mention fascinating historical and legendary sites. This really is a tour of a lifetime. See: vagabondtoursofireland.com

Honeymoons I IWD Travel I 153

Groom’s

Room Compiled by Peter Cole

Jacket Black

Black Belted

Jacket from Next

Shirt Letter

Blue Letter Shirt €15 at Penneys

Smart Young &

Polo

White

Coat €55, Windbreaker €15, Shacket €15,

Trousers‚ €13, Socks €7, Trainers €16 at Penneys

Shorts Denim

Racing Green Denim Shorts £25 at Debenhams

1904 White Polo Shirt

€32 at Burton Menswear

Scarf Wollen

Jacket Patterned

Rose Black

Blue and green patterned

Black Rose Embroidered Backpack

tailored jacket at Topman

€29.99 at TK Maxx

154 I IWD Feature I Groom’s Room

Niall wollen scarf €40 at Dune

Groom’s

Room Compiled by Peter Cole

Shirt Slim

Smart

KENDAL SLIM SHIRT

£65 at Crew Clothing

Get

Colour

Black Suit, Shirt and Tie all from

Splash of

Topman

Burgundy shirt with blue

and gold stripesat Topman

Shoes

Patterened

Pintail Patterned Shoes €125 at Dune

Product The

Hammond & Co Floral Shirt €60 at Debenhams

Coat Waist

Blue Waistcoat

€70 at Burton Menswear

Desert Sandy

Desert Boot €21 at Penneys

Groom’s Room I IWD Feature I 155

Groom’s

Room

Caramel Soft & Smooth

Compiled by Peter Cole

Caramel Long Sleeve Knitted Polo Shirt €32 at Burton Menswear London

Tailored Black

Cricket Not Just

Cricket Jumper, Shirt, Jeans and Trainers from River Island

Black tailored jacket with grey trim at Topman

Worker

Ripped

Big & Tall Ripped Jeans €45 at River Island

Tan

Tan Leather Worker Boots €80 at Burtons Menswear

Boy Baker

Hammond & Co. Bakerboy Hat £25 At Debenhams

Night Over

Tan Leather Overnight Bag from Next

Moccasin Leather

Leather Moccasin

£70 at Crew Clothing

156 I IWD Feature I Groom’s Room

Groom’s

Room

Door Out

Compiled by Peter Cole

Barbour Arlington Jacket €240 - Barbour

Jump

Blazer

Hoodie

Trail

M&S Collection Blazer

€65 - Marks & Spencer

Hodded Jumper €16 - Penneys (Ireland)

Debenhams Red Herring Suede Stitch Belt Pink €20

Cap NYC

Rugby All

Burgundy and white casual top

Baseball Cap €8 at Penneys

Dune London - Buckhorn - €99

Classic True

Debenhams Hammond&Co;

Classic Rookie 4 Pocket Jacket

Twist Band Fedora - €40

Loafer

In Army Green £79.99 - Superdry

Teal

from Topman

Van The

Vans Trainers €11 at Penneys

Teal Jacquard Loafer €50 at Next

Groom’s Room I IWD Feature I 157

Groom’s

Room Compiled by Peter Cole

Coat

Stripe

Grey

Verticle

Debenhams Viggo

Sez Grey Coat €138

Red Vertical Stripe Short Sleeve Shirt -€17.99 - New Look

Top On

Shirt Indigo

Navy cord baseball cap €12 - River Island

FatFace Stubbington Plain Shirt in Indigo -€36

Parki

Shirt, Jeans and

Khaki

Sneakers all from River Island

Khaki Parka €22 - Pennys

Hood Good

Burgundy Hoodie

Shorty Get

M&S Collection Blue Denim Shorts £19.5 - Marks & Spencer

€28 - Burton Menswear London

Blue & Silver Watch €99.99 TKMaxx Ireland

Dune London - Souris - €145

158 I IWD Feature I Groom’s Room

Groom’s

Room Compiled by Peter Cole

Three

Two out of

Pastel Soft

3 Piece Suit

Jacket & Waistcoat €139.99 TKMaxx Ireland

M&S Collection Pastel Blue Suit €140 - Marks & Spencer

Sweat

Check

No

Quick

Whitham Sweat

€110 - Barbour

Debenhams Hammond & Co Baird McNutt Linen Check Blazer Navy £130 - Debenhams

Shorts Double

Suede Per

Navy Suede Collar Jacket €22 - Penneys

Active Double Layer Short.

Denim

£34.99 - Superdry

Jersey

Bright Blue Jersey Sleeve Denim Jacket €34.99 New Look

Men’s Leather Belt from Next

Groom’s Room I IWD Feature I 159

Wedding Worries

Keep your bridal cool intact with these tips for dealing with wedding day nightmares

By Katie Byrne

160 I IWD Feature I Weddings

“

W

When you look back on it, you won’t remember the starter that was served cold, the unexpected rain or the last-minute cancellation from old school friends!

e’ve all been there: waking up in the middle of the night drenched in a cold sweat because of a wedding-related nightmare is arguably as part-and-parcel of the bridal experience as arguing over the guest list or shopping for your dress.

While some brides manage to swerve this gulp-inducing phase, for others, it offers a worrying countdown to the big day.

”

just ‘try not to panic,’ says photographer Katie

Farrell

(katiefarrellphotography.com).

‘Delegation is key, so if someone in your bridal

party says they will sort it, trust them and try to relax.’ If a replacement doesn’t seem possible,

so be it. ‘The show must go on,’ says Katie. ‘You can’t change the situation, only your attitude towards it. This is a tiny blip on the radar and

But what if that dream becomes a wedding-day

it is, in theory, just a bonus: a party, a cherry-

reality? What if you wake up, and it’s actually

on-top finish for the best day of your life –

happened?

albeit one that every bride wants to be perfect.

might even make a funny story one day.’

Plan B: The answer to this one varies according to the supplier, but wedding insurance is essential for making claims on any gone-wrong

First, breathe. ‘The chances are no-one will notice the small things that go wrong, so do your best to let it go and focus on what is going right,’ says life coach Sarah Doyle (thebetterlifeproject.ie). ‘I got married last year and know first-hand the work that goes into wedding planning. But when you look back

Delegation is key, so if someone in your bridal party says they will sort it, trust them and try to relax

elements of your wedding day.

on it, you won’t remember the starter that was served cold, the unexpected rain, or the last-

Whatever happens, just go with the flow. ‘Have

minute cancellation from old school friends!’

adequate support in place,’ suggests Sarah. ‘A helpful bridesmaid or an obliging auntie, for

The second step is preparation. Work out

example. Weddings are big events and contain

alternative options for the elements you’re

a lot of moving parts, so it’s unlikely everything

worrying

an

will be perfect. Whatever the situation is,

alternative route to the venue in case of bad

remember you’ll look back and laugh at it in

traffic or taking out that wedding insurance

years to come’.

about,

whether

it’s

finding

you’ve been considering. Of course, there are some things you simply can’t control, no matter

With all that in mind, we’ve asked

how much you might want them to go your way

the experts to share their advice for

- but for everything else, there’s prior prep and

handling some classic last-minute

a good old Plan B to keep it on track.

wedding day disasters…

Remember, there is always a Plan B and even a Plan C if needed.

The nightmare: a supplier drops out Check

with

your

vendors

what they do if ill health or unexpected

circumstances

mean they are no longer Fundamentally, nothing matters more than

able to attend: typically,

the purpose of your wedding day: the whole

they’ll have a colleague or

point of why you’re saying, ‘I do’. It’s all about

an industry contact whom

you declaring your love for your partner and

they

committing yourself to him or her. All the rest of

Whatever

will

enlist

instead.

the

situation,

Weddings I IWD Feature I 161

“

Stock-up on wet weather essentials: a pair of wed-worthy umbrellas and some Wellington boots

”

The nightmare: Guest dropouts

Last-minute guest cancellations are frustrating: in addition to the logistics of reshuffling the

table plan, you can also find yourself having

to fork out for meals that weren’t even eaten.

‘Typically, your venue or caterer will look for final numbers 24–72 hours before your wedding, so if there are any people you are

What if bad weather threatens those dreamy

The nightmare: The weather is threatening to put a dampener on your plans

photos you wanted to take on the grounds of your venue? Don’t panic, says photographer Tomasz

Kornas

(tomaszkornas.com).

‘Plan

ahead and discuss the possibility in advance

The weather is arguably the most unpredictable

with your photographer,’ he advises. ‘I always

element of your day, so it pays to have backup

do this with my couples. Some are adventurous

ideas. For example: if you’re planning on

and don’t mind the risk of getting wet, but

holding your ceremony outdoors, have blankets or hand fans in place in case it’s too cold or too hot. Work out with your venue in advance what you’ll do if rain threatens the likelihood of being

Don’t let the weather dampen your big day

able to swap your vows alfresco and come up with a secondary option, just in case.

others would rather stay dry and come up

unsure will make it, take them off the list,’

with an alternative option. Your photographer

recommends wedding planner Sharon McMeel

will want to create beautiful images, whatever

(sharonmcmeel.ie). ‘Most venues will allow

the weather – and rain can actually result in

for a small increase on the day, if needed;

stunningly saturated colours.’

whatever final figure you provide will be the minimum you are charged for.’

The Plan B: Sharon advises leaving the

162 I IWD Feature I Weddings

The Plan B: Stock-up on wet weather

printing of the table plan to the last minute,

essentials: A pair of wedding-worthy umbrellas,

allowing for any final edits to be made. What if

for example, and some Wellington boots you

someone cancels or shows up unexpectedly on

can slip on under your dress to prevent your

the day itself? ‘Don’t panic,’ she says. ‘Tell your

heels from getting, quite literally, stuck in the

wedding planner or coordinator and they’ll take

mud..

care of the rest.’

The nightmare: Stains on my wedding dress

The nightmare: The guests aren’t mingling

Let’s be honest: A pristine white gown is crying

If your guest list features clusters of people

The nightmare: you feel awkward in front of the camera

out for something disastrous to happen to it,

who have never met, you’re going to need to

The secret to feeling camera confident might be

whether it’s a streak of foundation landing on

think smart to get them interacting – especially

an engagement shoot, advises photographer

it in the morning or a slosh of red wine at the

earlier on in the day. ‘Entertainment during

Katie

wedding breakfast.

the drinks reception that gets the guests

‘It’s fun because there are no time restraints,

Farrell

(katiefarrellphotography.com).

involved is a great way to kick things off,’

and it can take place wherever you feel most

When it comes to avoiding makeup spills on

suggests wedding planner Michelle McDermott

comfortable,’ she says. ‘Many people won’t

your gown, ‘prevention is key,’ explains Stacey

(dreamirishwedding.com). Give a little extra

have had a professional photograph taken until

Brennan, founder of Making Faces Make-Up

thought to your table plan, too: group together

their wedding day, so it’s a great way to get

Studio (making-faces.ie). ‘A final touch-up

people you think will have common ground, for

you both used to being in front of the camera.

before you put your dress on will help stop

example.

any accidents. Alternatively, pop your “getting

It also helps to build a rapport with your

ready” robe on over your dress, backwards, to

To the evening! An empty dance floor might

photographer. Don’t want an engagement

keep it covered.’ That said, if something does

just mean your guests are busy enjoying the

shoot? No problem. ‘Your wedding day will be

happen, you might be able to deal with it with

buffet, but if you’d rather keep it full, Michelle

such a whirlwind that you might be aware of

washing-up liquid. No, really. It’s excellent for

has some advice. ‘The best man and ushers

your photographer’s presence at the beginning,’

getting rid of oil-based stains; simply dampen

should gather everyone up with the help of the

says Katie. ‘But a good photographer will blend

the affected area and gently massage a little

band or DJ,’ she says. Create an atmosphere

in so seamlessly that you’ll forget they’re even

washing-up liquid in, using a towel or flannel

that’s conducive to partying and invite guests

there.’

to pat it off.

onto the dance floor as soon as the first dance

The Plan B: Chances are you won’t notice

is over, so they don’t get a chance to plant

The Plan B: Embrace the challenge. ‘When it

themselves at a table for the rest of the night.

comes to your portrait shots, remember that

small marks on your dress as the day goes

you and your partner have each other and are

on - mud on the train, for example, or a slight

The Plan B: Stock reception tables up with

in this together!’ advises Katie. ‘Sure, it might

imprint from where your bronzer-loving cousin

icebreaker games and offer an assortment

be awkward for a few moments but once you

leaned in for a hug. Either way, it makes sense

of entertainment options for your evening

relax, it will be fine. Remember, you’re taking

to take your wedding gown to a drycleaner

reception; the dance floor, you could have a

photos with the love of your life. It can’t be that

after the big day, especially if you’re planning

photo booth stocked with props, for example,

hard, can it?’

to store it.

or a games corner.

Weddings I IWD Feature I 163

The Real Wedding of

Aishling & Sean

Who were married in the Clanard Court Hotel on 28th December 2018.

164 I IWD Feature I Real Wedding

Photography by: Mario Vaitkus - www.mariovaitkus.ie

W

here do I start? Our wedding day was amazing from start to finish. It was everything we hoped for, and I wish we could do it all over again.

We had decided to move home to live in Ireland, and we decided to return around the time of our wedding. Some people thought moving home and getting married all at the one time was crazy, but it made our move that little bit easier having such good family and friends around us for that special time in our lives.

Our reception venue was the Clanard Court

Our wedding day was amazing from start to finish Sean and I met on a night out nine years ago,

in Athy. We booked our venue from Australia, which was a daunting process as we had never seen it before. We went to Clanard Court when we came home for a holiday; we were excited but nervous at the same time, but it turned out

and two years later, we decided to move to

We wanted to get married in our hometown, so

to be amazing, exactly what we were looking

Australia where we lived for the next seven

we chose Our Lady’s Nativity Church in Leixlip

for, and the staff and wedding coordinators

years. As a result, most of our wedding planning

as this was the church that Sean regularly

were wonderful. On arrival at our venue, we

was done online and from recommendations.

visited with his dad, who sadly wouldn’t be

were greeted by a red carpet and champagne,

We did have some trips home before the

there on the day. We had Michelle Delmar sing

the atrium was beautifully decorated for the

wedding, and this is when we finalised the

at the church and during the arrivals; she has

time of year with Christmas trees, mulled wine,

venue, photographer, videographer, wedding

a stunning voice, and this gave the ceremony a

and an open fire that created a wonderful

dress, suits, etc.

beautiful atmosphere.

ambience.

Real Wedding I IWD Feature I 165

The ballroom was tastefully finished with

I bought my wedding dress in Ireland as I

A live band was a part of the wedding that we

Chiavari chairs, candelabra centrepieces, and

wanted to include my Mam in the excitement

would not compromise on, and our choice was

elegant chandeliers, which was the perfect

of it all. I went looking 12 months before the

the Bentley Boys; they rocked the venue for

setting for our Christmas wedding. The room

wedding as I was at home at that time. I

the whole night with fantastic music, and the

worked fantastically for our 140 guests on the

thought I knew the style of dress I wanted, but

dancefloor was full from the first song.

day. The food and service were first class, and

it turned out I went with something completely

everyone loved it.

different. It was the third shop where I found the perfect dress, not the style I expected to get at all, but I fell in love with it.

Sean’s anticipated nightmare of suit shopping turned into a dream as he settled on the first suit he saw in the window in the first shop, which was purchased at Pursuit in Dublin.

My hair stylist, Orla, and makeup artist, Michelle, had us all looking amazing on the day. It was everything I wanted it to be, and I would certainly recommend them to any future

Our photographer, Mario, and videographer,

bride. I never had a trial or even a picture of

Sean, were so professional and really made

what I wanted, but on the morning they both

us feel at ease throughout the day. We were

did a fabulous job.

blessed with the weather and got to take photos on the grounds of the venue which

When it came to choosing bridesmaids and groomsmen, this was an easy choice as I have two amazing sisters-in-law and Sean chose his brother and friend. We also had close friends and family play special parts on the day; it gave everyone a great sense of inclusion.

166 I IWD Feature I Real Wedding

I thought I knew the style of dress I wanted but it turned out I went with something completely different

turned out fabulous.

After our amazing day, which we didn’t want to end, we still had our honeymoon to look forward to; we set off for New York and Cancún six days later.

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The Real Wedding of

Susan & Colin Who were married in The Glenview Hotel on 14th July 2018.

168 I IWD Feature I Real Wedding

Photography by: annag@photographersdublin.ie

I

t was the first day of university, and we both nervously shuffled in to a lecture theatre full of 400 other wide-eyed students at Trinity College, Dublin. In a class that size, we may never have met if it weren’t for the professor who ordered us all to awkwardly say hello. And that was all it took – one mildly reluctant introduction led to friendship, love, and ultimately, marriage.

This was more than 10 years ago, and we have

would be led by her sister Gillian, after which

faced many of life’s biggest challenges together

we each chose a friend from school, college,

over the last decade, including swapping the

and work. Luckily, all the girls were able

familiarity and comfort of Dublin for exciting

to join Susan for a very efficient shopping

(and somewhat daunting) opportunities in

day in London, where they managed to

London. It’s here that we took the next big step

pick out Susan’s Vera Wang gown and the

when we got engaged in Regent’s Park, in a

four bridesmaid dresses all in the same

secluded outcrop of trees. That night, we had

shop – David’s Bridal. It’s safe to say that

the most romantic dinner of our lives in Clos

a few glasses of prosecco were enjoyed

Maggiore of Covent Garden, and the planning

afterwards! Colin insisted on getting Susan’s

began.

help with the suit shopping, not that he needed it; on the big day, everyone couldn’t

We knew that Colin’s best man would be his

get enough of his suit from Suit Supply, or

brother Paul, and that Susan’s bridesmaids

the groomsmen decked out in their grey and peach.

Although most of the planning took place in London, the wedding always had to be at home in Ireland, where we fell in love.

Glenview was an easy choice, with gorgeous photos of their ceremony gardens tempting us to risk an outdoor wedding.

It seemed so unlikely that we’d be able to pull it off; even though it was booked for

Real Wedding I IWD Feature I 169

July, we were convinced we’d get caught in

Despite the heat, Susan stayed fresh thanks to

friends and family had joined us from as far

the rain. Somehow, we were luckier than we

the magic of Audrey (Sugarcube Makeup) and

away as Australia, Canada, and South Africa,

could have ever imagined – not only was it

Sinead (The Hair Mob). Our humanist ceremony

and thankfully, they had a brilliant time. Our

sunny on the big day, but it somehow hit highs

next to the lovely Glenview waterfall kicked off

band Surefire Trio are still being talked about

of 25 degrees, and in fact was so hot that

with an instrumental cover of “Wouldn’t it be

as the best wedding band our guests had ever

week that we were receiving phone calls from

nice” by the Beach Boys specifically crafted

come across, and there was not one but two

our vendors worrying about the water supply,

by Daragh Butler, our wonderful ceremony

Dirty Dancing lifts as we partied through to

flowers wilting, and ice cream melting... in

and reception musician, and was officiated by

breakfast.

Ireland of all places!

Susan’s neighbor Brian Whiteside, who set the warm, celebratory mood and kept everyone

The night before the wedding, there was a

smiling.

huge gorse fire on Bray Head, blanketing the Stillorgan duel carriageway and even the venue

The luck continued, as three-month-old flower

itself in thick black smoke. Again, however, luck

girl Aisling let her parents Gillian and Stephen

was on our side, and the day went off perfectly

enjoy their gorgeous five-course meal in

without any fire, drought, or even sunburn.

peace! We were blown away that so many

We’re pretty sure the latenight chip van arranged

by Glenview wedding coordinator Rachel NeillWatson had something to do with the night lasting as long as it did!

As married life began and the honeymoon plans got into full swing, we spent many a night looking back at Anna’s incredible photos of the big day. Sometimes, the big events in your life have a tendency to over-promise and underdeliver, but this was not one of those times; we really had the time of our lives. Here’s hoping the honeymoon is the same!

170 I IWD Feature I Real Wedding

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The Real Wedding of

Laura & Matthew Who were married on the 3rd October 2018, in The Millhouse, Slane

Matthew and I first met as teenagers, and were friends for years. Then one day about four years ago, something clicked, and we haven’t looked back since. I was heading away for the summer to work in Nantucket in the USA, and Matthew knew that he had to act fast before I left, or it would be off the table. Our first date had so much added pressure, knowing we had been such good friends for so long, but thankfully, it went extremely well and we decided to give it a go.

172 I IWD Feature I Real Wedding

Photography by Future Looks Good www.futurelooksgood.com

Fast forward a few years to January 2018, when Matthew dropped to one knee. The day started with brunch in South Dublin, and then moved to the Wicklow Mountains (one of our favorite places), where Matthew popped the question!

Full Brownie points should be awarded to Matthew for having a nail appointment and surprise engagement party planned for straight after with our closest friends!

We began looking for our venue shortly after because we knew that we didn’t want a long engagement. We wanted something a little bit different to the norm, and were torn between two venues; our options were an industrial-

When we first visited The Millhouse, we knew this was it! We loved how it incorporated everything we wanted – a rustic, industrial feel, an element of luxury, and being surrounded by nature.

love with another dress! My thoughts were, you only have your wedding day once, and there are so many beautiful dresses in the world, so why not get two! I kept it a surprise from Matthew and all our guests, and the “wow” on everyone’s faces was priceless! I loved how both my dresses were completely different; I had a true bridal A-line for the ceremony, and a modern sheath for the evening!

We are really involved in the wedding industry, with myself working in WED2B and Matthew

It was also a perfect location for our family and friends to travel to, and we decided to have our wedding ceremony at The Millhouse as well so we could keep everything in one place.

filming weddings (Out of Mountain), so we knew exactly what we wanted, and agreed on pretty much everything! We found the planning to be very stress-free, and knew we would only have our engagement season once, so made

The dress was one of the most exciting parts of the day, mainly because I had TWO! I bought my first dress in Angelo Bridal, after vibe wedding in Dublin city center, and The

trying many and thinking that I’d never get

Millhouse, an exclusive alternative wedding

“the feeling.” A few months later, when I was

venue.

working in WED2B Dublin, I “accidentally” fell in

the most of it by making sure we enjoyed everything. The venue, food, flowers, photos, and video were our priorities, so those are the things we invested most in, and can now say that every cent was worth it.

Real Wedding I IWD Feature I 173

Our wedding day was amazing, and truly the

We honestly didn’t worry about anything, and

We went to the beautiful island of Santorini

best day of our lives. We were married on

everything flowed incredibly smoothly. We

for our honeymoon. Our days were spent on

the 3rd of October and managed to have the

enjoyed every single second of the day!

the beach, wine tasting, exploring the island on quad bikes, or spending lots of time in the

best weather; our guests were even able to sit outside at night! We got ready in the Millhouse

As has been mentioned, food was a big priority

spa! The island is perfect for honeymooners

and did a first look before the ceremony, which

for us. We knew that we wanted something

due to how relaxing the atmosphere is, which

was really exciting.

a little different, so we chose the BBQ menu,

is exactly what you need after the craziness of

and our guests still talk about how good the

a wedding! We went for 10 days, which was

food was, six months later! We also managed

the perfect amount of time. If we could do

to include a sparkler section after dinner while

it all again, we would in a heartbeat, but are

the DJ was setting up; it’s a great idea to keep

thankful that we have our photos and video to

guests occupied during that “in-between time.”

relive it any time we want to remember a truly

What really made our day so incredible was how amazing the staff at the Millhouse were, especially Valerie.

174 I IWD Feature I Real Wedding

perfect day at The Millhouse.

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The Real Wedding of

Emer & Cillian Who were married in The Garryvoe Hotel on 28th December 2018.

Photography by White Cat Studio www.whitecatstudio.ie

176 I IWD Feature I Real Wedding

I

have known Cillian for a long time because we are both from the same area. We both also play for Brian Dillons GAA club, so we knew each other while growing up. We got talking after a county final a few years ago, and he asked me out on a date. Little did we know what it would lead to!

We went on our first date to Ardmore in Co.

jaunting car in order to keep ourselves dry. At

Waterford, where we did the cliff walk. Cillian

Torc Waterfall, we hopped out for a walk and

was very shy, and I was wondering what way

to my surprise, Cillian got down on one knee;

Ardmore was special to both of us; we had spent many summer days there with our families. After many more walks in Ardmore, we decided to give things a go, and became an item.

because it is our favorite time of year, so the planning started just after our engagement.

We thought about what was important to us when looking for a venue, and decided that we wanted somewhere elegant, with a good atmosphere and great food. We viewed the Garryvoe Hotel in early January and luckily, the Christmas decorations were still up, with a beautiful tree in the corner of the library and

things would go, but he had already won me over with his choice of location because

We knew that we wanted a Christmas wedding

At Torc Waterfall, we hopped out for a walk and to my surprise, Cillian got down on one knee.

many more dotted around the hotel.

We then met Ben Sharkey and discussed our wedding plans with him; he set the scene of the drinks reception for us. The initial selling point was imagining this beautiful room for the champagne reception, filled with the scent

We always went away for a weekend before

obviously, I said yes! We kept it to ourselves

Christmas, so heading to Killarney at the

for the weekend because we wanted to tell our

start of December 2016 was nothing out of

parents face to face, and for those few days, it

the ordinary. Cillian insisted on going to the

felt like our little secret. Once we arrived home,

Killarney National Park for a walk, despite

we celebrated with our families and friends,

the bad weather, and we managed to get a

and it made for an extra special Christmas.

of mulled wine, while the personal approach taken by Ben and hotel manager Aidan Cotter totally won us over. Laura at reception was very endearing, and every time we visited the hotel, we felt at home. There was no question that the Garryvoe Hotel ticked all of our boxes.

Real Wedding I IWD Feature I 177

from the library, which really added to the

Getting married is such a special occasion, and it was lovely to share these moments with

The morning of the wedding was a like

atmosphere. The meal was exceptional, with

my mum. I loved Pippa Middleton’s dress, and

whirlwind, with everything happening so fast.

our guests praising the wonderful service of the

found something similar on Pinterest. The

Upstyle Junkie and Susan from Crazydolls MUA

Garryvoe Hotel staff. Liz, who served the top

designer was Mila Nova, and when I tried it on,

arrived nice and early to do the hair and make-

table, could not have done any more for us,

I knew it was the dress for me; and – most

up, and our photographer Egle from White Cat

and after the meal, Conor and Ocean’s 8 got

importantly – it had pockets! I also had it

Studio and Eamon from Aisling Productions

the party started; we danced the night away,

altered to have an open back to the waistband.

began to capture memories of the day. We

into the early hours of the morning…

My bridesmaids were all beautiful, and it was

chose to get married in St. Joseph’s Church

very easy to find something to suit them. My

on the Old Youghal Road because we have so

sister Jill and my best friends Orla and Niamh

many memories from there. Walking up the

looked amazing on the day, but it was our

aisle with my dad is a moment I will cherish

nieces Ellie and Ruby and nephew Oliver who

forever. Fr. John O’Donovan did a lovely, light-

really stole the show.

hearted ceremony, and there was plenty of laughter from our guests, which really settled

The run-up to the wedding was amazing and pretty stress-free.

The meal was exceptional, with our guests praising the wonderful service of the Garryvoe Hotel staff.

the nerves. Caroline Fraher sang beautifully, accompanied by the Munster String Trio. There

The following day, we had organized a swim for

was a lot of thought put into the church music

Marymount Hospice, and relaxed in the hotel

because we wanted our personalities to shine

for the day. We are delighted that we chose the

throughout the ceremony.

Garryvoe Hotel for our wedding. Their personal approach and attention to detail ensured a

There was something to do all the time, but keeping the advice “it’s as stressful as you

When we arrived at the Garryvoe Hotel, Ben

stress-free, fun-filled day that exceeded our

make it” in mind, we made sure we enjoyed

and Aidan greeted us, and we walked together

expectations, and left us with memories that

it all. On the night before the wedding, both

to the ballroom. It was everything that we had

we will cherish forever. We had a very relaxing

families and the bridal party went to Cillian’s

hoped for. The chandeliers were exquisite and

New Year, and then went to New York on our

family home, and his parents gave a fabulous

the tables set perfectly, while an inviting scent

honeymoon, followed by a Caribbean cruise as

spread to kick-start the celebrations.

of mulled wine and hot whiskey was coming

Mr. and Mrs. Brosnan!

178 I IWD Feature I Real Wedding

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The Real Wedding of

Lisa & Kevin Who were married in Anner Hotel on 28th December 2018.

Photography by: Pawel Gorna. www.kmprophotography.ie

180 I IWD Feature I Real Wedding

A

fter so many years and having welcomed a beautiful son called Ryan together, it was very important for us to have a Christmas wedding with all our family and friends present to celebrate the big day.

Kevin organized a weekend away to Killarney

that this was the place. The hotel was so cozy,

for my birthday and when we got there, he

homely, and welcoming; it was exactly what

said that he wanted to go for a walk around

we wanted! The lobby area and bar were

Torc Waterfall. It was amazing! Kevin said we

perfect, and we were imagining taking our

to be his best man, with Jason and James as groomsmen. Kev had stood at all three of the lads’ weddings.

I was so excited to go looking for my wedding dress. My mom Joan, aunt Helen, and bridesmaid Ailish all came with me. We went to Folkster in Kilkenny; the staff were so helpful, and made my day so special. I looked at a few dresses but when I put on the

would go for a walk near the lake

dress I would go on to choose, I

and that he had packed a picnic.

just knew that it was the one. Some

When we got there, we sat down

happy tears were being shed by

on a log beside the lake to take

the girls, so I knew I had made the

in the views. Kev was about to

right choice.

unpack the picnic and when I turned around, he was on one

Kevin is from Cahir in County

knee, with a ring and a bottle

Tipperary, so went to Mr. Mister in

of champagne! Obviously, I said

Cahir, where Val really looked after

yes, and I couldn’t wait to break

them; they all looked so handsome.

the news.

My wedding morning was incredibly

We had always talked about a church wedding at Christmas, so we contacted

wedding photos in the beautiful garden area

Fr. Bobby Power to book Burncourt Church in

at Christmas. The 28th of December 2018

South Tipperary. Fr. Bobby was brilliant, and

couldn’t come quick enough.

special; I spent it at home with my parents, my little boy, amazing bridesmaids, and my two brothers. It was already a perfect day. Marian Browne from Cahir was my make-

talked us through everything. We then turned our attention to venues. We went to the Anner

I am so lucky to have an amazing group of

Hotel in Thurles on a Sunday afternoon as they

friends, and was thrilled when Sarah, Ailish,

were holding their wedding fair, and when we

and Mairead agreed to be my maid of honor

walked in the door, we knew straight away

and bridesmaids. Kev asked his brother Keith

up artist; she was so friendly and professional, just like one of the girls. One of my best friends, who is currently living in Australia, travelled home for the wedding, and did all our hair on

Real Wedding I IWD Feature I 181

the day. I’m not only grateful that she did our

whiskeys. The hotel was beautifully decorated

hair, but that she travelled halfway around the

for Christmas, also by Sandra from To Have &

world to be here for us!

To Hold; she had understood my vision exactly, and the result was stunning.

Trish from Flowers by Trish in Cahir and Sandra from To Have & To Hold in Cork made

The Anner Hotel staff were so good to us,

the church look amazing, while Johnathan

and really made all our wedding guests feel

O’Brien

played

welcome. When we arrived, the atmosphere

all our favorite songs, from Oasis to James

was brilliant, and continued right through the

from

justjohnnymusic.com

five-star meal.

Trevor from Midlands DJs then took over from the band, and made sure that the fun never stopped. He was wonderful and really made the night for us, although I think he was a little

Our first dance was to “Take My Hand”

by Picture This. Our band was called Blue Romantics, and when we booked them, we said that we wanted a lively wedding; they definitely delivered that! The band was brilliant, and the dance floor never emptied.

surprised by the amount of Westlife requests from Kev and his friends! The evening was perfect, and everyone sang and danced the night away. We finished off the night with our whole wedding party singing Flying Without Wings.

We were so lucky to have the help and support

Blunt, during the ceremony. The music was so good that guests asked if we were selling

Courtney, Deirdre and the Anner staff did everything to make sure our day was enjoyable and stress free

soundtracks! The ceremony was very special,

of such amazing people. Our family and friends are the best in the world, and we can’t thank them enough for making the day so incredible.

Courtney, Deirdre, and the Anner staff did everything to make sure our day was enjoyable and stress-free; the food, location, decoration, and atmosphere were all exactly the way we

and just the way I had imagined it.

had imagined it, and we could not have been When we got to the hotel, we were so happy

We are so lucky to have a world champion

to see that our guests were enjoying the drinks

Irish dancer in the family, so we asked Gareth

reception; everyone really enjoyed the cosmos,

O’Connor from Armagh to perform. He was

and – because it was Christmas – the hot

world class, and even got Kev to do a jig!

182 I IWD Feature I Real Wedding

any happier!

The Real Wedding of

Alex & Rory Who were married 23rd February 2018 at Rathsallagh House

Photography by: Couple Photography. www.couple.ie

184 I IWD Feature I Real Wedding

R

ory and I met at work in London, with Rory in the property team and me in the legal team. I started to notice that Rory wanted to discuss more and more legal matters with me, eventually asking me to review some personal legal documentation. I told him it would cost him a drink, so on a rainy Tuesday evening, we went for a drink, and as they say, the rest is history.

Before proposing, Rory wanted to speak with

were instantly charmed. Joe O’Flynn warmly

my dad. My parents were living in Dubai at the

welcomed us into the main house, where we

time, so we flew over under the premise of my

chatted by a peat fire, and by this point, we

dad’s birthday. Rory took my dad out for a pre-

knew that Rathsallagh was something special;

dinner drink, and plucked up the courage to ask

it was everything we were looking for and

for my hand in marriage. Before agreeing, dad

more – our home away from home to host

cheekily asked Rory a number of questions, to

our wedding. I had always fancied an “off-

which Rory was meant to answer “yes.” The

season” wedding, so we finally chose the 23rd

most difficult question was whether Rory would

of February 2018 and prayed for a spring-like

switch allegiance from supporting Ireland in

day. We were blessed with a fine 3 degrees,

rugby to the All Blacks, and in spite of Rory’s

which was mild compared to the “Beast from

resounding “no,” he still won dad’s approval for

the East” that descended a few days later!

our marriage.

Because Rory is Irish and while I am from New Zealand, I have a strong kinship with Ireland and a love for all things Irish, Guinness included, we had always dreamed of an Irish wedding.

Almost a year before the wedding, Rory and I were joined in Dublin by my parents and Rory’s mum for a weekend of venue viewings. As we

my mum and dad were instrumental in the planning; we divvied up the jobs and wasted no

As we drove through the beautiful countryside and entered Rathsallagh’s sweeping grounds we were instantly charmed.

drove through the beautiful countryside and

Along with the invaluable support and guidance

entered Rathsallagh’s sweeping grounds, we

from

Rathsallagh’s

wedding

time in getting started. Striving for a classic and classy affair – think wedding meets fabulous

coordinators,

Real Wedding I IWD Feature I 185

Champagne party – Rory and I had four people

up Rathsallagh’s impressive grounds, and

Back at Rathsallgh, the pavilion had been

in each of our bridal parties, with a mixture

enjoyed a couple of nerve-settling pints of

turned into our vision of a twinkling winter

of friends and family. The gents were smartly

Guinness before suiting-up!

wonderland, with a mass of flowers, candles, and fairy lights; the whole area hummed with

dressed in black morning suits, while my bridesmaids looking stunning in long, elegant, black dresses with grey faux-fur wraps. Luckily for me, mum joined me in London to experience the special rite of passage of mother-anddaughter wedding-dress shopping. We quickly agreed that a striking Hailey Page dress was tailor-made for me.

Back at Rathsallgh, the Pavilion had been turned into our vision of a twinkling, winter wonderland

chatter, drinking, and spectacular food. Anyone who says that you don’t end up eating much on your own wedding day has not been to Rathsallagh! The guests commented that not only did they have the best wedding food they had enjoyed, but that it was some of the best food they had ever had, period! Our special evening was topped off with a series of loving

Having stayed over on the Thursday night,

Ros and Anna from “Couple Photography”

and heartfelt speeches, followed by a troupe

both the bride’s and groom’s parties were able

arrived to capture the getting-ready photos,

of Irish dancers, after which encouraged by

to get ready at Rathsallagh. I was treated to

and continued to whip us into order throughout

the band Johnny Be Goode, the dance floor

an incredible breakfast in my room with my

the day, never missing a beat to capture or

remained filled until after 2am!

parents, where we were later joined by my

create a photo opportunity. When I first spoke with Ros on the phone, there was an instant

The day after our wedding, the guests dusted

rapport, and while we knew that our wedding

off their hangovers with a hearty breakfast,

photos were going to be sensational, they

Irish coffees, and for those who were game, a

surpassed our expectations!

leisurely stroll around Rathsallagh’s picturesque grounds. Our perfect wedding weekend was

The wedding ceremony was held in a local

finally wrapped up with a scrumptious pig on

church in Dunlavin. While the ceremony

the spit for dinner, followed by more dancing

was traditional in most respects, Rory and I

in the cozy Rathsallagh bar, along to a cracking

incorporated small details from each of our

Irish Trad band; singing and laughter could be

heritages. This included the passing of a coin,

heard until the wee hours.The whole weekend

which is an Irish tradition, and the beautiful

was perfect and went off without a hitch – and

lovely bridesmaids for hair, make-up, and the

harpist Orla Fallon singing “Pokarekare Ana,” a

if there were any problems, everyone was kind

obligatory glass of Champagne. I can only

New Zealand Maori love song; there was not a

and wise enough to keep them away from the

assume that Rory and his groomsmen soaked

dry eye in the house!

bride and groom!

186 I IWD Feature I Real Wedding

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The Real Wedding of

Michelle & Garry Who were married in The Lord Bagenal on 23rd February 2019.

Photography by Gibbons Photography www.gibbonsphotography.ie

188 I IWD Feature I Real Wedding

G

arry and I met at the going-away party of a mutual friend in London. Both of us were living and working there at the time, and love blossomed from then on. Our first date was very well planned, with dinner and a trip to a comedy gig in Leicester Square; I was very impressed! A few months later, I moved to Dubai to teach, so Garry and I started a long-distance relationship, which was tough but we kept to it!

Six years to the day after we first met,

the hotel’s professionalism, and instantly knew

Garry proposed to me on our anniversary on

it would be the perfect venue for our wedding.

Ballymoney Beach in Wexford, where we were staying for the night. That day was very special,

I really enjoyed the days out with my mum and

and Ballymoney Beach will always be a favorite

Michelle, Sarah, and Karen, my bridesmaids,

spot of ours because we have great memories

shopping for my wedding dress. We went

of getting engaged there.

around the country in search of the perfect dress, which I eventually found in Smart

Once engaged, the wedding planning went into

Brides in Portlaoise. Jess and the all staff

full swing. One of the first emails I sent was

were so professional and friendly, and I had

to Sue, the wedding coordinator at The Lord

a great experience picking out my dress.

Bagenal Inn hotel in Leighlinbridge, Carlow

Dress shopping for the bridesmaids was just

to check their availability. Sue was a fantastic

as fun, and we got them on our first day out

help, and we decided on February 23, 2019 as

in Debenhams. They looked stunning in their

our wedding date. We picked The Lord Bagenal

navy dresses! Garry and his five groomsmen

as our wedding venue because of its friendly

– Paul, Mikey, Johnny, John, and Pat – were

staff and fabulous location. After our initial

kitted out in Benetti suits, and looked very

meeting with Sue, we were very impressed by

dapper on the day!

Real Wedding I IWD Feature I 189

The weeks leading up to the wedding were a busy but lovely time. We relaxed during the week of the wedding, and enjoyed lots of nice lunches and catch-ups with friends. We chose to get married in my local church in Coon, County Kilkenny. Fr. John Delaney was so kind to Garry and me; we really valued his expertise,

preparations got under way, and I felt very

and he did a fantastic job. The food was

and took on board any suggestions he had for

lucky to have my cousin Karen Maher as the

fabulous, which was one of the reasons why we

our ceremony. The ceremony was special in so

make-up artist; Karen made us all feel relaxed,

chose The Lord Bagenal as our wedding venue.

many ways; Fr. Delaney made it personal, and

and did an amazing job with our make-up.

Sue, Niall, James, and all the staff at The Lord

we felt completely at home. The music in the

Elaine Murphy was in charge of hair, and had us

Bagenal were absolutely fantastic from start

church was by the very talented Three Tones,

all looking fabulous. Both girls were a dream to

to finish, and the feedback we have received

who were excellent on the day. I met with

work with, and I left the house feeling fabulous.

from guests since our big day has been so

my cousin Tee Walsh from Teresa’s Wedding

After our beautiful ceremony, we were taken for

complimentary to the hotel. We are so happy

Flower Designs a couple of weeks before the

photos by Jer and Anita Gibbons, who were also

that we chose to spend our wedding day at The

wedding. Tee listened to what I wanted, and

very professional and took gorgeous photos.

Lord Bagenal!

We arrived at the hotel for reception drinks, and

After the wedding, we went on a minimoon to

The morning of the wedding was very

had plenty of time to mingle with our guests.

Kenmare for a few days. We plan to travel to

relaxed, with lots of chats, tea, and glasses

Niall from The Lord Bagenal was always on

Las Vegas, San Francisco, Miami, and Jamaica

of Moet! When the hair and make-up arrived,

hand to make sure everything went smoothly,

for two weeks later in the year.

the flowers on the day were beautiful.

190 I IWD Feature I Real Wedding

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The Real Wedding of

Ashleigh & Kevin Who were married in the Conyngham Arms Hotel on 29th December 2018.

Photography by: Carol Dunne www.caroldunnephotography.com

192 I IWD Feature I Real Wedding

K

evin and I met each other on a night out in Manchester; it was a Sunday evening, and we were both out celebrating the fact it was mid-term. Kevin had moved to Manchester to become a teacher, and I had been teaching there for five years. His accent and charm led us to start chatting, and we ended up going on our first date to a cocktail bar in the city. As we chatted away, we realized how much we had in common, and Kevin’s easygoing attitude attracted me straight away. We enjoyed further nights out and meals in the buzzing city of Manchester, but after a few years, we decided it was time to go back to Dublin.

grew as the taxi dropped us at Terminal 1 at Dublin Airport, and before long, we were on a flight to Paris. The cliché continued when we stopped next to Eiffel Tower, and Kevin popped the question. It was a no-brainer, and we had a great weekend exploring Paris – and of course, watching Ireland win the Grand Slam in an Irish bar!

We stopped outside the Eiffel Tower and Kevin popped the question When looking at venues, we decided that we wanted something small and intimate, so of course, when we saw the Conyngham Arms Hotel, we knew straight away it was for us – even more so, when we heard that we could do the whole day in one venue, and that it would be exclusive for us! The staff were so helpful at answering any questions about the day’s arrangements, and we loved the beauty of Slane, which was a perfect location for family coming from the North and Ashbourne.

When we asked about dates and found that the 29th of December was available – 10 months after our engagement – it was perfect. I am a With the assistance of generous family, we

Ashtown. On the Friday before St Patrick’s Day,

managed to get jobs and on our feet and

a message appeared telling me that when I got

we moved into a great apartment together in

home, I was to pack a weekend bag. Suspicions

huge Christmas fan and love the idea of cold December weddings, when people tend to be off work and enjoying the holidays.

Real Wedding I IWD Feature I 193

The fact that I had my two amazing sisters

day feel so special, and I will always remember

up with family members who they hadn’t seen

and one of my best friends from school as

it. Kevin was kitted out with suits hired from

for a while. We couldn’t believe the weather! It

my bridesmaids made the lead-up exciting,

CT2 in Blanchardstown village, opting for the

helped our amazing photographer Carol Dunne

especially as my friend Carly was flying back

tweed waistcoat look, along with quirky ties

as she used lighting to capture our pictures. We

from Australia to be there. To add to the bridal

and socks.

went outside the Conyngham Arms and across the road to a private garden area, and even to

brigade, I had my one-year-old niece Evie as my adorable flower girl. Kevin is one of five, with three sisters and one brother, James, who he asked to be his best man. He didn’t go too hard on the speech, but unfortunately, the

Having the whole day in one venue was perfect

a pint of Guinness. Speeches were delivered by my sisters, the best man, and my dad; they were very touching, and the groom had a few tears. The evening then kicked off, and we

same can’t be said for the stag!

We had both agreed that we didn’t want a

We had both agreed that we didn’t want a religious ceremony but something that was more personal to us

Boyle’s pub to get a token picture of us pulling

danced the night away. We had been talking

religious ceremony, but rather something that was more personal to us, so when we came across our humanist Keane Harley, we were delighted to learn he was available! After meeting Keane in a hotel in Dun Laoghaire, we had a lovely informal chat about our families, preferred style of ceremony, and story; this was exactly what we had been looking for.

I wasn’t sure that I would enjoy it, but after trying on the first, I realized that I just loved

The day finally arrived; the morning was a

trying on dresses; I had no idea that so many

chilled one, with Celine from Hair Lab and

different styles existed! There were a number of

Emma Fox doing an amazing job with hair

dresses that I would have happily got married

and make-up, prosecco, and excitement, as

about the lull between the band finishing and

in, but in the end, I chose a simple fitted dress

we had a laugh while getting ready. The lads

the DJ taking over, and had therefore booked

with embroidered detail, backless and with a

started with a full breakfast, washed down with

something a little different – a silent disco.

long train; I loved it! Everyone I spoke to in

whiskey to settle the nerves. The fact that the

We had seen it go down a storm at a friend’s

Pronuptia in Belfast was extremely helpful, and

whole day unfolded in one venue was perfect;

wedding, and decided to try it for our own. In

couldn’t do enough for us; I didn’t feel rushed

the guests could arrive and get settled for the

the end, it was one of the things our guests

or expected to buy a dress at any time, and

day, and even grab a drink before the afternoon

mentioned to us most often after the day. It

that is a huge part of the experience. What was

ceremony, if they wished! The 29th of December

was such a fun experience to see everyone with

most special about wedding-dress shopping

arrived, and the day went better than we had

headsets on, switching through the different

was spending time with my mum and sister

hoped; there was an informal atmosphere,

channels, and then taking the headphones off

Judith; our Prosecco over brunch made the

with guests enjoying themselves and catching

to listen to the Cats Choir.

194 I IWD Feature I Real Wedding

Boutique Heart ofof Slane, Slane, Co. Co. Meath...

Meath...

Boutique Wedding Wedding Venue Venue inin the the Heart

The Real Wedding of

Naomi & Raymond Who were married in The Errigal Country House Hotel on 29th December 2018.

I

t all started seven years ago when Raymond and I became more than just friends! Raymond and I knew each other for years before we started dating, as I was friends with his sister from secondary school. This made our relationship easy from the beginning as we both knew each other’s families, something really important to us both.

Raymond and I went to visit family in Canada

We spent the day celebrating with my Canadian

in October 2017. On the last morning of the

family, touring around the vineyards of Niagara-

holiday, we were staying in a beautiful town

on-the-Lake – it truly was a fabulous day!

looking at venues, and when Errigal Country House had our date free, we grabbed it with both hands! We previously were guests at a friend’s wedding there, and it was one of the best weddings we ever attended. The food, atmosphere, and service were incredible on the day.

We love how The Errigal is a small family-run hotel along with the fact that the wedding

called Niagara-on-the-Lake, Raymond proposed in a bandstand beside the lake where Canada

Christmas is always a special time of year

and America meet (something that he had been

for both of us, so we decided this would be

researching all morning unknown to myself!).

a perfect time to set our big day. We began

couple has their own private drinks reception area with music provided before the meal.

Once we booked the date, our Christmas themed wedding naturally emerged.

196 I IWD Feature I Real Wedding

Photography by: Lavery Photo . www.laveryphotos.com

Dress shopping began in January with my

wedding day, which I altered as my ‘something

The day began with an early start for the

bridesmaids. I had four bridesmaids – my

old’. My veil, flower girl dress, and bridesmaid

ladies as the makeup artist, Aisling McEvoy

sister Lynn, cousin Adel, friend Naomi, and

jewellery were all purchased from Blingalicious

(Face2Face Beauty), and hairdressers, Lorraine

Raymond’s sister Daphne (three of who I was

in Co. Dublin. The girls here were fantastic

and Lisa (A Cut Above), arrived at the house

privileged enough to be a bridesmaid for on

and were able to take additional lace from my

to begin the preparations. Our ceremony was

their big days). We travelled around a number

dress and add it to the flower girl’s dress. My

in Derrylane Parish Church, as it was always

of boutiques but found my dream dress in Love

bridesmaid dresses, purchased from Presley

my dream to walk down the aisle in my home

Ellie in Virginia, Co. Cavan. The dress originally

Blue, were an easy purchase as I always knew

church where my parents said ‘I Do’ 34 years

came without sleeves, however, with the team

with a Christmas themed wedding, I wanted

previous.

in Love Ellie and my dressmaker, we were able

red and sparkle!

We were limited with space here, meaning some of our guests had to sit in the adjoining hall with a video connection of the service

We love how ‘The Errigal’ is a small family run hotel

displayed on large screens. The florist from The Flower Room Ballyconnel was a childhood friend of my sisters and me. She had the church and grounds beautifully decorated with the most splendid Christmas themed flowers and greenery.

Raymond had four groomsmen, his brother

Our photographer and videographer, Manuel

Trevor, two cousins, Wayne and John, and my

Lavery and team, were fantastic on the day.

own brother, Nigel. The boys got their suits

They arrived at my house bright and early to

from E&M Menswear in Cootehill, Co. Cavan.

make sure everything was running smoothly.

to order extra material and make sleeves for

The men here were very easy to deal with and

They also went to Raymond’s house and

the dress. On the night of the wedding, we

even got ties made specially to match the exact

captured the morning from the men’s point of

unpicked the stitches attaching the sleeves and

red of the bridesmaid dresses. E&M’s were also

view. Manuel provided the video connection

easily made the dress ready for the party. My

able to provide different variations of the suits

for the church service and also a drone for the

headpiece was originally my mother’s for her

for our four ushers and for both our fathers.

aerial footage of the day.

Real Wedding I IWD Feature I 197

On arrival at the hotel, it became apparent how fabulous the decorations and atmosphere was for our guests. Niall and the team at Errigal Country House Hotel made our dreams come After the ceremony, we had organised, with

true as they took on board all the additional

the help of some neighbours, to provide our

requests we had, catering to our every need.

guests with hot chocolate as they left and

Guests commented numerous times on the

made their way towards the reception. We

food, service, and facilities available at The

were absolutely blessed with the weather,

Errigal. To keep in line with the Christmas

meaning many guests stayed at the church

themed wedding, we gave every guest a

and enjoyed the conversations and style on

Christmas bauble with our names and date on

show. We stopped along the route at Kilmore

it as a keepsake for the day! After a lovely meal,

Cathedral (Raymond’s home church) and The

we had one last surprise in store for our guests.

Backyard, Moynehall, Cavan for photographs

The bridal party dressed up in Christmas

with the bridal party, of which Manuel Lavery

costumes as Santa and his elves! We danced

made us all feel at ease and chilled out.

the night away to Temptations Wedding Band, and the floor was full all night.

Niall and the team at The Errigal were so easy to work with from start to finish, helping with all the organisation, setting up, tidying up, and making our whole day so magical.

Both Raymond and I were thrilled with how smoothly the day ran. We were so delighted with every supplier and detail from start to finish, which made our day so magical – even though the time flew!

198 I IWD Feature I Real Wedding

The Real Wedding of

Bhawna & Philip Who were married in Kilkenny on 28th of December 2018.

B

hawna is from Mauritius, and we first met in 2011 when she was assigned to be my father’s carer for a few hours per week. My father Billy was suffering from dementia, and I was caring for him in the family home in Dalkey, supported by family members at weekends.

Over the following months, we developed a

later take up employment in A&E in St Vincent’s

close friendship, and I finally asked her out

Hospital in Dublin, a job she absolutely loves.

dropping sustained hints for at least two years!

John is as accommodating as it is possible to be; he had a very unusual gold engagement ring that he had designed, which seemed like it had been waiting there for Bhawna all along. I asked John if anyone had ever got engaged in his shop, and because the answer was “no,” I decided to propose to Bhawna in John’s shop.

He enthusiastically helped me to set up a very

later that year. Our first date was in Miller’s Pizza Kitchen in Baggot Street in Dublin, where

There is a local jeweler in Dalkey by the name

we had a wonderful meal, followed by drinks

of John Murphy, and I went to him when looking

in the Pembroke Cricket Club. Bhawna would

for the engagement ring. Bhawna had been

successful surprise. He later made our wedding rings, with both inscribed “1 Carysfort Drive, Dalkey,” where we first met. John and his wife Anne attended our wedding.

200 I IWD Feature I Real Wedding

During a midweek break in Kilkenny, we found

Bhawna found a shop in Dunlaoghaire owned

The groomsmen and I were fitted out by Joe in

a bar named Billy Byrne’s, with “William M

by Barbara Kosznik for the dress. Bhawna

Frewen & Aylward, just across from Barbara’s

Byrne” written above the entrance. That was

wanted a conventional design with an Indian

shop in Dunlaoghaire. You won’t find anyone

my father’s exact name! Across the road, we

influence; the pictures tell the story of

better than Joe, if you are looking for the right

visited St John’s Church, which was absolutely

Barbara’s imagination, while she also made the

suit; he covered every base required with ease.

beautiful inside, and instantly, we wanted to be

bridesmaids’ dresses. On the alter before the

married there above anywhere else.

ceremony commenced, Fr. Purcell described

We visited the Newpark Hotel when it was beautifully decorated for Christmas, and fell in love with it; the staff could not have been more

Instantly we wanted to be married there

Fr. Purcell gave us all a beautiful ceremony; it was poignant, witty, and inspiring for the times ahead. Guests of all origins felt as one in St John’s, and Ben Power captured our day through his lens, with absolutely spectacular results.

helpful, so we booked it immediately. We found that Kilkenny had everything. Lucy’s Flowers

Bhawna to all present as the most beautifully

and Maria’s Cakes were located side by side,

dressed bride to ever stand before him, in 30

The Hole in the Wall Bar, Butler House, and of

and Lucy recommended Ben Power for our

years at St John’s. Barbara and her husband

course Billy Byrne’s bar welcomed us for perfect

photos. Ben in turn told Bhawna about Yvonne

Marcin were present to hear that compliment,

photos, and walking the streets of Kilkenny with

Maher for make-up, and we were almost sorted

which was a lovely memory from an unexpected

Ben was a fantastic memory of our wedding

in a couple of days.

source.

day.

Real Wedding I IWD Feature I 201

The Newpark Hotel was just fabulous from

our special day in a truly beautiful church and

start to finish; Sinead, Nicky, and all the staff

a wonderful hotel in the most welcoming city in

made our reception completely about us and

Ireland. Everyone involved in our wedding day

our guests, thinking of the tiniest details. The

excelled, and went beyond our expectations.

food was spectacular, and the talk of the room.

For many of our guests from foreign shores,

Before the wedding, Barbara Kosznik told me,

ours was their first wedding in Ireland; they all

“When you see Bhawna in this dress, you will

loved the Newpark wedding experience, and of

fall in love with her all over again!” She was

course, St John’s Church.

absolutely correct!

We honeymooned with Bhawna’s family in

When Billy passed he left me the most precious gift imaginable; a beautiful loving wife and the best friend I will ever find.

Killarney, renting the ever-friendly Dirreen House. Bhawna’s family experienced the entire Wild Atlantic Way and the most spectacular scenery in Ireland, before returning home to the sun and sand of Mauritius. My father unwittingly facilitated Bhawna and me finding each other, albeit through the most difficult set of circumstances I have witnessed in my

202 I IWD Feature I Real Wedding

To sum up our wedding day: friends and

lifetime! When Billy passed, he left me the

neighbors, Bhawna’s family from Mauritius,

most precious gift imaginable: a beautiful,

members of the Pembroke Cricket Club, and

loving wife, and the best friend I will ever find

colleagues from St Vincent’s Hospital shared

anywhere in this world.

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www.athenry-candles.ie

Bespoke meaningful products for you, your events and as gifts to connect with others.

From clothing to lifestyle items, we personalise our products to meet your needs.

To find out more about our wedding gifts, party favours, and to place an order, please visit www. jachory.com Contact details for enquiries: Tel.: 0041 76 36 15 687.

Email: info@jachory.com. Instagram: @sayitwithjachory Facebook: www.facebook.com/jachory

www.jachory.com

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Designer, manufacturer, importer & exporter EXHIBITING AT MOST BRIDAL SHOWS Stockist of: • FASHION ACCESSORIES • BRIDAL GOWN EMBELLISHMENTS • ALL TYPE OF FABRICS • DECORATIVE SHOE CLIPS • CLUTCH BAGS • LACES AND TRIMS • HAIR ACCESSORIES • TIARAS • HAIRBANDS • DIAMANTE HAIR COMBS • ALL KINDS OF JEWELLERY

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

by Ann Cassidy

We supply all over Europe to trade only.

No minimum policy

www.natraj.co.uk Unit 9, 315 Summer Lane, Hockley, Birmingham B19 3RH, UK T: 0121 236 2211 / 0121 200 1060 M: 07801 649 899 E: kp@natraj.co.uk

Singer Musician

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B en w e r

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

Available for:

Drinks Reception Church/Ceremony Day Two Wedding Parties Private Parties Corporate Events

Text/Call/Whatsapp - 086 396 2195 Email: aebmusic32@gmail.com Facebook: Andrew Bennett Music

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Danielle Curran Makeup Professional Makeup Artist

Phone: 085-2119370 Email: daniellecurranmakeup@hotmail.com Instagram: danielle_curran_makeup_

Livewire bring a burst of energy to every performance; with a professional attitude but fun approach they will keep your guests dancing all night.

This friendly team are based in Kildare but travel nationwide and provide an outstanding service to local bridal couples. www.livewireband.ie info@livewireband.ie Martin 0872582248

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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.ukeboxmusic.c om

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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

www.wowpartyband.ie

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

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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

The

PERFECT M AT C H

for your perfect partner

Browse and buy exquisite engagement rings and wonderful wedding rings both online and in-store.

Rings shown left to right 9ct White Gold Plain Men’s Wedding Ring €295 18ct White Gold 0.75ct Diamond Fields Setting Shoulders Ring €3,500 18ct White Gold 0.25ct Diamond Wedding Ring €950

fields.ie

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