Irish Wedding Diary Winter 2019

IRISH

Your Complete Guide to Getting Married in Ireland

ExpErt tips For WEdding photography

6

rEal BridEs sharE thEir storiEs

Beat Wedding

StreSS €5.80 £4.00

WInteR 2019

DIARY BEautiFul

WEdding drEssEs plan an irish stag party

PrevieW of 2020 Wedding dreSSeS

honEymoons and WEddings aBroad

www.IrishWeddingDiary.ie

justinalexander.com

ALLUREBRIDALS.COM

Irish Wedding

Winter DIARY

2019

Welcome

Hello everyone and welcome to our Winter 2019 issue of Irish Wedding Diary, Ireland’s best-loved and top-selling wedding magazine. We have just returned from our annual visit to the RDS Wedding & Honeymoon Show, which was a phenomenal success. Well done yet again to all the team at WED.ie and Eventhaus.

The summer buzz of weddings is now over and everyone’s thoughts are turning to the 2020 season. But there are still a few months left in 2019, with many winter weddings between now and the new year. If you’re one of the lucky brides getting married this year, you’re now in the final phase of planning and hopefully just tying up loose ends and adding the finishing touches to your plans. Inside this magazine, we hope you’ll find a host of ideas to make your dream day a reality, and tips and hints for easing any last minute worries.

If you are a 2020 bride or groom, I bet it seemed a long way off when you became engaged. It’s just around the corner now, and you’re probably looking at your to-do list and realising that there are still a lot of boxes left unticked. Don’t despair; we have all you need in this issue to make your wedding day everything you have dreamed of. Whether you’re totally organised and have all your big ticket items done, or whether you’re still in the ‘planning stage’ with little booked, you’ll find something inside to help you along the way.

We have a preview of the 2020 wedding collections from some of the top wedding dress designers across Europe, who have created stunning bridal gowns for every size, shape, taste and budget.

We’ve also taken some dresses from top Irish bridal boutiques, and photographed them in a number of wonderful wedding venues.

We’ve got advice from experts on choosing your wedding photographer, sorting out your wedding transport, how to handle stress in the lead-up to your big day, and what to do if your partner isn’t pulling his weight. Let’s face it, it’s normally the guy who doesn’t seem to be into the wedding planning thing. Planning a wedding can be a stressful time for a couple. That’s why we’ve collected tips on how to handle conflict, and also a bit of advice for those planning on starting a family. For the guys, we’ve got a few ideas for stag weekends in Ireland, and a bit of help with speeches.

You’ll also find all the wedding suppliers you need for finding dream dresses, stunning venues,

Cover Dress by Paloma Blanca www.palomablanca.com

award-winning photography, beauty tips for the big day, bands to set the tune, advice on how to

Publisher: IrishWeddingDiary.ie Ltd.

with some lovely items that you can put on your gift registry list – or just go out buy them yourself

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

plan the perfect party, and clothes for the groom, guests, and bridal party. We have a gift section as a special treat.

A honeymoon is the one part of the wedding that is truly only about the couple. With this in mind, we’ve 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.

We all love looking at other people’s weddings, and we have a bumper selection of real weddings for you. In this issue, we have included six real-life weddings, with brides and grooms telling us their stories of getting married all around Ireland, and a couple who got married in Malta.

Don’t forget our great mobile app, through which you can get the entire magazine, just as you see it here, on your IOS and Android device. Having the issue on your phone means you can check it

Editorial Assistant: Alex Joyce Alex@irishweddingdiary.ie

out on your commute to work, or while sipping coffee. You can purchase a single issue for €2.99

Press Releases to: Alex@irishweddingdiary.ie or Unit 8, Fashion City, Ballymount Road Upper, Dublin 24, Ireland, D24 EW2P

Happy Planning!

Photography: Thomas Sunderland Contributors: Andrea Hayes, Editor Elaine Hession Alex Joyce Peter Cole Marty Coleman Marcus Stewart Sandra Sheerin Carmel Russell Caitriona Foley Jason O’Callaghan Design: Outline Graphics. www.outline.ie

4 I IWD Contents I Winter 2019

or a yearly subscription for €7.99.

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 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

M A D E W I T H L V E I N CA N A DA

To find your nearest stockist visit www.palomablanca.com

36 ResolvIng ng ConflICt IC ICt

40

WeDDIng ng DResses esses

48

WeDDIng ng ess stRess

60

CoolbaWn n Photoshoot

WeDDIng ng hy PhotogRaPhy

80

100

WeDDIng ng venues enues

the Joys of an irish Stag Weekend

CONTENTS

20

WeDDIng ng neWs W Ws

10

bRIDe e of the W yeaR shoW

10

Wedding Diary News

20

Preview of the Bride of the Year Show

24 30 36 40

Winter Fashion

Real WeDDIngs ngs

112 156

6 I IWD Contents I Winter 2019

an IRIsh sh stag tag

132

184

Quote to add a bit of colour

Handling Wedding Stress Starting a Family

60

Coolbawn Quay Resort Bridal Photoshoot

80

Choosing Your Photographer

84

Wedding Gifts

100

Ireland’s Leading Wedding Venues

112

Dunboyne Castle Hotel Bridal Photoshoot

126

Bridesmaids’ Dresses

128

Mother of the Bride and Groom Outfits

132

Wedding Travel: Honeymoons and Weddings Abroad

156

Why jet off to foreign shores when we’ve everything you need right here?

WeDDIng ng avel tRavel

Resolving Conflict

42 44 48

By Marcus Stewart

Dunboyne Photoshoot

Wedding Beauty

176 177 179 182 184

Wedding Competitions Preview or 2020 Wedding Dresses

Real Brides Share Their Wedding Day The Groom’s Room The Wedding Speech Wedding Statistics The Reluctant Groom Plan an Irish Stag Party

J U S T I N A L E X A N D ER G R O U P

N E W YO R K , N Y

C . 201 9

S I N CER I T Y B R I DA L .CO M

stellayork.com 6886

essensedesigns.com

D2761

DiaryNews

Flair Bridal

Allure Bridals collections believe in the details — beading, floral appliqués, dramatic

backs, and

perfect draping. Every gown features details to set it apart and make the bride shine. Brides deserve to be at their most beautiful, and Allure aims not only to design and produce the perfect gown, but to provide daily inspiration for all brides-to-be.

See more on page 50 or visit www.allurebridals.com

Five Star

Entertainment

The Looks Band makes it easy for you to make the right decision when choosing music for your wedding day. Delivering high energy live music, the band has played all over Ireland with professional musicians, extensive set lists, and impressive sound and lighting. The group comprises dedicated wedding band entertainment specialists and know what it takes to put on the perfect show for non-stop dancing. The band performs music ranging from songs by classic bands of the 60’s, 70’s and 80’s like The Beatles, Queen, and Journey, to modern-day music from Bruno Mars, Adele, and Taylor Swift, keeping the dancefloor full from the first dance to the last. The Looks can also provide ceremony music, drinks reception, and DJ services to finish out the night.You can have it all!

Check out The Looks Band at www.thelooksband.ie. The band is simply superior entertainment. 5 star Entertainment Spend five minutes and save hours of work!

Call: 087-1768014 / 087-7672477

Perfect Detail

Your wedding day is the most special day of your life. The wedding team at the Talbot Hotel Stillor gan is determined to ensure that every detail on the day is perfec t. They understand tradition and offer the warmest of welco mes to you and your guests. Offering a selection of refurbished suites individually decorated to a superior four-star standa rd, the Talbot Hotel Stillorgan provides the ideal setting for the perfect South Dublin wedding venue.

The hotel’s staff are on hand to help guide you through your special day, with every detail being though tfully considered from beginning to end.

The glamourous Shelbourne Suite has been fully refurbished and abounds with style and elegance, with state of the art AV equipment and natural daylight making it the perfect space for your banquet.

10 I IWD I Wedding Diary News

The exquisite French courtyard and garden oasis create a relaxing and enjoyable atmosphere, allowi ng guests to unwind during your drinks reception, and throug hout your special day.

The Talbot Hotel Stillorgan is licensed for civil ceremonies with a choice of three ceremony suites which can cater for groups of 25-250 guests.

For enquiries, please contact the weddi ng team through weddings@talbotstillorgan.com or call 01 200 1807.

M A D E W I T H L V E I N CA NA DA

To find your nearest stockist visit www.mikaellabridal.com

Five Star

Entertainment

Celebrant An Ethical

DiaryNews

Redesign Exciting

Straight off the back of a busy weekend at the Wedding and Honeymoon Show in the RDS, wedding celebrant Conor Clear announced that he joined the Ethical Celebrants of Ireland in September.

A new organisation, The Irish Ethical Celebrant Society celebrates weddings across the country, seven days a week. Ethical ceremonies are about celebrating life, whether it is a marriage, a new family member, or an end of life celebration. The ceremonies are designed to be inclusive and to respect the beliefs and wishes of the individuals involved. Ethical celebrants are trained to a very high standard to create and deliver personalised ceremonies full of warmth and love.

The IECS is a secular and non-theistic organisation that embraces the diversity of its membership, and focuses on human goodness and building ethical relationships with each other.

For more information on the Irish Ethical Celebrant Society, and to check out their directory of celebrants, head online to iecs.ie You can find out more about Conor on conorclear.com or you can keep up to date with him on Instagram, @conorclearcelebrant

Weddings Bespoke

The Four-Star Riverside Park Hotel and Leisure Club at Enni scorthy are delighted to anno the exciting redesign and reno unce vation of the ever-popular Hilto n Edwards Ballroom.

With a substantial investmen t, The Hilton Edwards Ballroom has been completely transform into one of the most luxuriou ed s ballrooms in the Southeast.

The windows have all been repla with floor-to-ceiling tinted glass ced , inviting the beautiful countrysi de scenery into the ballroom Wedding couples and their gues . ts will now be able to sit back and enjoy views of the beautiful River Slaney flowing by.

The ballroom has been remo delled and redesigned to give a completely new and lavish setting for weddings, conferences and banqueting events. The desig n has introduced a mood-lit ceiling, with over 60 colours to choo se from – and the new chan deliers catch the mood-lit ceilin perfectly, giving every event a g completely different ambiance .

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

Email: www.riversideparkhote l.ie. Tel: 053 923 7800

The Stephen’s Green Hibernian Club is a unique venue in the heart of Dublin city that specialises in bespoke, intimate weddings for 40 to 96 guests, and is an ideal venue for capturing the romance of old Dublin.

The Guest Room, on the first floor, boasts superb views of St Stephen’s Green through its original sash windows, which makes it the ideal location in which to host the main reception meal. The dramatic fireplaces and ceilinghigh mirrors remind guests that the venue had formerly been a Georgian home.

Upon viewing the Card Room, it’s easy to understand why many wedding couples have chosen this ceremony and wedding venue. In addition to a beautiful collection of artworks, it boasts the original domed ceiling, dating back from the Club’s formation in 1840. A personal viewing of this room is simply a must on your search for the perfect venue. Many civil, humanist, and spiritualist ceremonies have taken place here.

12 I IWD I Wedding Diary News

For more information, see, www.stephensgreenclub.ie

M a i n Ha l l , R DS 25 - 2 6 J a n u a ry 2 02 0

Everyone’s a VIP at our Wedding fair.

Bring your whole wedding party to The Bride of the Year Show @ the RDS. -

Meet over 170 exhibitors Be inspired by our legendary Catwalk Shows Drop into the ‘I Do School’ for those essential tips and trends Relax with some Afternoon Tea Get your nails done at our Nail Bar

Organised by Eventhaus on behalf of Terry Burns Wedding Exhibitions Ltd Image copyright 2019 by VM Media

.ie d e t w info i s i V ore m for

DiaryNews Dream Dare to

Dare to dream with Essense of Australia’s latest collection, offering exquisite bridal gowns that bring your ‘once in a lifetime’ moments to life. Elevated styling creates new, all-natural design elements with figure-hugging lace, while airy fabrics create feminine details with a modern touch. Combined with shimmering, textural elements and flattering sheer details, these modern styles radiate a timeless romance that will sweep you off your feet.

See more on page 48, and at www.essensedesigns.com

Paws for Thought

Why not #PawsForThought if you are considering buying a puppy. Dogs Trust would love for you to consider a rescue dog #AdoptDontShop. They will always provide advice on adoption, and you can also take time to read ‘Dog Tales with Andrea Hayes’.

A ‘pawsome’ read, this lovely book is about rescue dogs who rescued their owners right back! It includes 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 abandoned animals. It may be the perfect gift for a dog lover, and a percentage of the book’s sales goes directly to Dogs Trust Ireland when you buy from their online store at www. dogstrustshop.ie Dogs Trust is Ireland’s largest dog welfare charity. Its mission is to bring an end to the destruction of stray and abandoned dogs in Ireland. Would you consider including your furry four-legged canine friend in your wedding celebrations?

You can support Dogs Trust Ireland and include them in your special day celebrations, with their unique and beautifully designed Dogs Trust donation card keepsakes, which are a fantastic and popular alternative to traditional wedding favours! You’d be barking mad not to check out page 190 to find out more.

16 I IWD I Wedding Diary News

Ultimate Wedding Band

WOW comprises four experienced musicians who have come together to form the ultimate wedding band. Between them, the band’s members have played every major venue in Ireland, from the 3Arena in Dublin to the SSE Arena in Belfast. WOW is a unique, fully costumed party band experience. Starting your night off with a selection of swing music, the band is dressed in and performs in the style of The Rat Pack, before seamlessly changing their costumes to play classic party hits. Then, another slick transition follows into iconic 80s attire, before it’s the turn of the 90s. The final part of the show includes current floor fillers, keeping your night and dance floor hopping until 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 them to stop playing on the night!” Shona O’Toole www.wowpartyband.ie Call: 087 9831232 or email wowpartyband@gmail.com

Luxurious Bridal Boutique located in Navan, Co. Meath stocking designer dresses from all over the world a must visit for every bride to be.

24 Flowerhill, Navan, Co. Meath, C15 A6YV Tel: 085-278 8038 Email: info@whitedesignerstudio.ie Website: www.whitedesignerstudio.ie

DiaryNews The Sincerity label’s latest collection

Pizza

In a Cone

this may seem like ngle or square-cut pizza ing countless slices of tria that you probably After decades of devour t cep con ius gen the gh is pizza in cone-shaped dou an Itali ms. drea of f t to mention stuf the to eat on the move (no venient, portable and easy -night snack. late never saw coming. Con or n guest arrival receptio perfect for your wedding pizza thing. hot a delicious), Kono Pizza is just not it’s ts, and ds with these delicious trea frien and ily fam r you ella, strawberries, Surprise sert cone filled with Nut Salad cone, as well as a des ek Gre a r offe also y uring wonderful The e on the way too, feat . There’s a gourmet rang raspberries and bananas and pesto. in sauce, as well as chicken w and it was toppings like duck and hois dding & Honeymoon Sho We nt rece the at pled sam we t, grea es tast a sauce down Kono Pizz best part is you won’t spill show attendees. And the the with ess succ ing roar a see page 190 your dress or shirt! il info@konopizza.ie also www.konopizza.ie or ema For more information see

Classic

features

romantic

and

graceful

wedding dresses for the classic and charismatic bride. Fall in love with unique

embellishments,

modern

silhouettes, and the graceful elegance the label is known for. Romance is defined in this English net A-Line dress. The dress features Chantilly lace under a beaded bodice and organza skirt. The chapel length train

Graceful

finishes the look.

Romantic &

See more on page 56 or at justinalexander.com/sincerity-bridal

Sunshine Bringing

Fun and

A True

Classic and Executive Cars are a small family run business based in Co. Louth.

They specialise in a unique fleet of classic cars which are luxurious, elegant and genuine classics. Dermot, the owner, has spent most of his life around motorsport and restoring classic cars. In fact, the very first thing Dermot booked for his own wedding in 1993 was the wedding car – a 1927 Rolls Royce!

All of the cars are sourced and lovingly restored by Dermot. His passion, attention to detail and unwavering enthusiasm brings classic cars back to life ready for wedding couples to experience. Bringing that ‘something old’ to your special day. www.classicandexecutivecars.com Tel: 087 2602507

18 I IWD I Wedding Diary News

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 idea will bring something extra special to your day. Ukebox can dress in Hawaiian attire to bring fun and sunshine to your special day, or can dress formally in suits for more formal events. Ukebox can tailor a set to suit ceremony music, or a more upbeat set for drinks receptions or corporate events.They also enjoy walking from table to table, singing and taking requests!

Ukebox are available for events all over Ireland.

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

60109846 PM Irish Wedding Diary 2017-V1.indd 1

16/02/2017 15:53

New Year, New Bride:

The Bride of the Year Show 2020 is set to return bigger and better

our Make Y ing edd W m a e Dr t The a y t i l a Rea e Year h t f o Bride 2010 Show

The Br the Yea ide of r Show RDS Sat 25t & Sun 2 h Jan 6th 2020 Jan 10am –

5pm

Planning a 2020 wedding? The Bride of the Year Show is the mustattend event for couples looking to plan their big day and find all they need to make their day truly special.

The One-Stop Wedding Show Returning to the RDS, Dublin in 2020, the Bride

dream wedding. Whether traditional, quirky,

No matter what your budget is, what your ideas

vintage, or themed, there will be something to

are, or who you are walking up the aisle with,

suit every wedding.

the Bride of the Year Show welcomes everyone

of the Year Show is the ultimate destination for brides and grooms currently planning their

on their wedding planning journey.

The

two-day

wedding

extravaganza

has

everything from inspiration for your dream dress, the photographer who can capture the perfect shot, to evening entertainment that will have you dancing the night away!

With leading wedding exhibitors in attendance covering all aspects of planning your wedding and honeymoon, the Bride of the Year Show is not to be missed!

20 I IWD Preview I Bride of the Year Show

For those hoping to have their wedding abroad,

Save Time & Money

whether it is on the super-fine, sandy beaches

The Bride of the Year Show allows you to meet

of the Dominican Republic, or overlooking the

with a range of leading wedding specialists, who

green valleys, rolling hills, vineyards, and olive

will be on hand to offer invaluable advice and

groves of Tuscany, you will meet wedding

inspiration for your special day.

specialists from the best locations in Europe, Asia, Africa, America, the Caribbean, and

Everything you need, want, and dream of for

beyond. Our industry experts will be on hand

your special day can be booked under one

to provide expert advice, inspiration, and

roof. Helping to take the stress out of wedding

money-saving tips, so you can plan your dream

planning, the show will not only save you

wedding with ease and excitement!

Free Makeovers A lucky groom-to-be and mother-of-the-bride randomly chosen from the audience before each show will receive a fantastic makeover from our team of expert stylists and fashion gurus. They will then return to the main stage to show off their new look to the audience.

Sit back, relax and enjoy your planning

time but also money as many exhibitors offer exclusive show-only offers and discounts.

Sensational Catwalk Shows As well as showcasing a host of suppliers to help you plan your perfect day, the show makes a great day out for family and friends too with a full programme of entertainment on offer.

Not sure if you want the ballgown dress you dreamed of as a child or the vintage look that you have recently fallen in love with? The Bridal Catwalk Shows will help you to say ‘Yes!’ to your dream dress. An integral part of the Bride of the Year Show that takes place twice daily, these spectacular catwalk shows provide the ideal

Anyone currently planning their big day can

opportunity for couples to view the latest bridal

take advantage of exchanging ideas with the

gowns, bridesmaids’ dresses, occasion-wear,

professionals who make wedding dreams come

mother-of-the-bride outfits, and suits for the

true. Whether you are planning a low key,

groom on the catwalk.

intimate day or an all-out glamorous party, the talented and professional exhibitors are sure to

This year the main catwalk show will host an

help you on your way to your dream day!

exclusive wedding fashion collection with the hottest on-trend styles for this year’s weddings!

Say ‘I Do’ Abroad At the Bride of the Year Show, destination

With music, dance moves, and a few surprises

weddings are a speciality!

along the way, the catwalk shows are sure to help you say ‘I do’ to the right dress for you!

Find everything for your perfect wedding abroad

Not only will the Bride of the Year Show help take the stress out of your wedding planning by having all you need under one roof, but it also offers you the opportunity to relax at the nail bar or book in and enjoy the finest afternoon tea.

Still in need of inspiration? Then make sure to pop by the ‘I Do’ school. Hosted by Sara Kennedy of the Irish Wedding Blog, Sara will look at the new season’s bridal trends, give you a bespoke groomswear guide and chat through bridesmaid styling.

With everything you need to plan your special day in one place, the Bride of the Year Show will be a magical and unforgettable experience.

from our selection of knowledgeable wedding experts, explore the world of destination weddings, and discover your perfect wedding location at Ireland’s largest spring wedding showcase.

The Bride of the Year Show takes place at the RDS, Dublin on Saturday 25th and Sunday 26th January 2019 from 10am–5pm.

For more information, or to book tickets, visit www.brideoftheyearshow.ie.

Bride of the Year Show I IWD Preview I 21

Sparkle A touch of

DiaryNews

us’ a whole Stella York gives ‘gorgeo season… al brid this ning new mea ring Offe ! you with ts star it and ding dress affordable, on-trend wed latest designs for all sizes, the Stella York from on ecti coll r designe ils, unexfeatures glamorous deta uettes silho pected lace and sexy brought – kle spar of – with a touch oh-soand e fierc fun, r you by to life fabulous style. at See more on page 49 and tella-york m/s s.co sign www.essensede

Midlands Heart of

the

Say ‘I do’ at the newly refurbished four-star wedding venue in the heart of the midlands: the all new Midlands Park Hotel.

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

Showcase National

BENTLEY BOYS NATIONWIDE SHOWCASE TOUR!

Attending one of the Bentley Boys renowned showcases is a must for your wedding planning to-do list so you can experience the ‘wow’ factor the boys bring to any event. Choose any line-up from a 4- to a 12-piece band, include the option of a horn section, choose your favourite lead vocalist and more, all fully live! You can tailor the Bentley Boys to be your bespoke band for your unique, special day!

The Bentley Boys showcase regularly in Dublin, Belfast, Cork and Athlone. Follow the Bentley Boys on Instagram and Facebook or subscribe to their YouTube channel.

Call Dublin: (01) 4434336; Belfast: (028) 9099 2322; or Galway: (091) 442350. E-mail: info@ bentleyboysband.ie.

newly designed ballroom, bedrooms and suites. An investment of €7 million over the past year and half has transformed this property into a very sought after wedding venue in the heart of the midlands. Nestled in the heart of Portlaoise town, the sophisticated urban setting is the perfect location for your wedding day.

From the moment you arrive, the striking entrance creates an impressive sense of space and classic modern elegance. Immerse yourself in the luxury of the newly renovated ballroom with its natural lighting, lavish décor, mood-lit ceiling, and fairy-lit backdrop.

Our brand new Chiavari chairs complete the opulent style and feel of our glamorous ballroom; they are the perfect finishing touch. The conservatory has been transformed into a luxurious outside space perfect for pre-wedding reception drinks.

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

The hotel offers a choice of banqueting suites catering for up to 350 guests. Complimentary Civil Ceremony Suites are also available for up to 200 guests.

Ideally located only an hour from Dublin and less than an hour and half from Cork, Limerick and Galway, the new Midlands Park Hotel is the ideal location for your wedding. Luxury in the heart of the midlands www.midlandsparkhotel.com Tel: 057-867 8588

22 I IWD I Wedding Diary News

Est.1887

ADAM’S

Ir el an d ’s Prem i e r Je w e l l e r y A u c t i o ne e r s Adam’s Auctioneers is the ultimate destination for jewellery lovers...

We curate three fine jewellery auctions each year in May, September and December offering a beautiful selection of fine jewellery and watches, at the best value. Our next fine jewellery auction will take place December 3rd.

We are currently accepting consignments for the December auction and invite you to contact us for a free and confidential appraisal.

Information and appointments please contact The Jewellery Department emma@adams.ie

prsa no. #001959 6046 Irish Wedding Diary.indd 1

26 S T S T E P H E N S G R E E N D U B L I N 2 +353-1-6760261

09/09/2019 09:53

Fash on

Heart

Compiled by Elaine Hession

Open

Open Heart Diamante Sterling Silver Earrings €25 Laura Ashley

Airy

Lace Ace

Light &

Roman Chiffon Dress €50

Flower

Roman Lace Dress-€75

Delicate

Fringe Elvi

Roman Floral Dress €85

n e e r G t Min lver and Si

ELVI FRANCOISE Fringe Dress €50

Lace Teal

Minted It’s

Mint Green Blazer €45 Dorothy Perkins

Pleat

Lipsy London Teal Lace Halter Bodycon €85

Metallic

Wallis AW19 Silver Metallic Pleated Midi Skirt €40

Dazzle Razzle

Lipsy London Silver Diamante Strap €60

24 I IWD Feature I Fashion

Trim Silver

Silver Lace Embellished Trim Dress €90 Roman

120 acres of glorious parkland that overlooks the river Blackwater, with a 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 Grand Ballroom, or the intimacy of our elegant wedding suites with 17th century architecture, our dedicated wedding team is on hand to create the day of your dreams.

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

3892- Johnstown IWD 210x297mm advert.indd 1

30/08/2019 10:41

Fash on

Sparkle

Compiled by Elaine Hession

Black

Pure Collection Knitted Skirt - Black Sparkle €150

Bodycon The

Bead Black

Flap In a

JD Williams black beaded dress €150

Lipsy Tier Lace Flute Hem Bodycon €60

Roman Black Embellished Flapper Dress €70

Blocks s k c a l B f o

Top Crop

Wrap Zip It’s A

Miss Selfridge Black Ribbed Button Down Top €25

Lipsy Black Scallop Wrap Dress €55

Top Hem

Tip Gold

Dune London - Boutique €115

Fringe Little

Miss Selfridge Black Mesh Lettuce Hem Tank Top €20

Littlewoods Michelle Keegan Kayla Fringed Clutch Black €40

Floral

Roman, Black Floral Zip Front Midi Dress €40

Ireland's Only Island Castle Accessible by Exclusive Resort Ferry Just Minutes from Waterford City Centre

weddings@waterfordcastleresort.com | Call 051 878 203 www.waterfordcastleresort.com

Fash on Compiled by Elaine Hession

Sequins

Mini

Golden

Rosa

Monsoon Carlita Sequin Maxi Dress €150

Hobbs London ROSA MIDI DRESS €235

Spot Yellow

Mellow Yellow

Dorothy Perkins Ochre Yellow Spot Dress €65

Tropics Hot

T.K. Max Silver Plated Gold Tone Ring Trio €25

Print

Prettylittlething.com, Hot Tropics €30

Leopard

Roman Leopard Print Skirt €40

Clutch Hot

28 I IWD Feature I Fashion

Heels Head Over

New Look Cheetah Print Gold Chain Clutch Bag €20

Head Over Heels - Mimo €75

Fash on Compiled by Elaine Hession

Lace Layered

Neck

JD Williams Red Double Layer Lace Dress €40

High

Wine

Glamourous Wine Lace High Neck Dress With Fluted Sleeves €85

Red Red Wine

Red Red

Lipsy Red Embroidered Bodice Maxi Dress €90

Maxi Dusty

Little Mistress Dusty Wine Embellished Strap Maxi Dress €100

Red Rich

Sosandar Rich Red Embroidered Hem Multiway Dress €55

Pleats Roman

JD Williams Red Double Layer Lace Dress €40

Prints Clutch

Head Over Heels - Buffi - €45

Sparkle

Dune London - Brilliante - €245

Fashion I IWD Feature I 29

Prepartion Clean Bridal Beauty

With Beauty Editor

Deep

Elaine Hession

It’s time to take a step back and swap the wedding planning for some wedding pampering. Here are a few essentials to add to your bridal beauty prep.

Serum Night

The perfect solution for oily complexions and

combination skin, Clarins Pure Scrub is a purifying gel scrub with lava beads, which gently remove dead cells and deeply cleanse pores.

Clarins Pure Scrub 50ml €30.

Cleanse Tone &

Sleepless nights over table plans and wedding prep may play havoc with your skin. This night serum could be what you need to restore your skin’s health. The new advanced formula helps reduce the look of skin irritation in just 1 hour and immerses skin in 24-hour hydration and advanced antioxidants, helping fortify its natural ability to respond and

Step up your skincare game with the Codex Beauty Exfoliating Wash.

adapt to intense visible stressors. This is the one to reach for

This is a gentle, everyday cleanser with natural exfoliating jojoba

in the run-up to stressful times.

grains and infused with elderflower water, grapefruit, safflower, and

New Advanced Night Repair Intense Reset

milk thistle oils for both toning and cleansing. Scientifically researched

Concentrate €100

Cleanse Tone &

Don’t forget about your neck! Eminence Hibiscus Ultra Lift Neck Cream is especially formulated to give sagging skin a boost thanks to its natural blend of hibiscus and botanical hyaluronic acid that promises to keep skin looking firm and rich in moisture; no need to cover up on the big day!

Eminence Hibiscus Ultra Lift Neck Cream €98.00.

Masquerade

Put your best face forward on your wedding day and pop on a mask that will hydrate and plump up the skin for a more radiant glow. The Image VITAL C Hydrating Enzyme Masque gently exfoliates away the build-up of dull, dry skin while nourishing vitamins A, C, and E encourage a healthy complexion; this is essential for winter brides.

Image VITAL C Hydrating Enzyme Masque €37.80.

and made by an Irish company, this cream is wonderfully hydrating and will leave your skin smooth and supple.

Codex Beauty Exfoliating Wash 125ml, €50.

Mazing Eye

A powerful anti-ageing cream that really is ‘eyemazing’! The advanced instant lift eye treatment of Eminence Hibiscus Ultra Lift Eye Cream rapidly reduces any puffiness around tired eyes and helps to smooth out wrinkles as well as minimise the appearance of dark circles below the eye area. The special stainless-steel rollerball applicator massages hibiscus and ice wine active ingredients into the areas around the eye, appearing to tighten and lift the skin

Hydrate

instantly. Eminence Hibiscus Ultra Lift Eye Cream €95.00.

Take your skincare to the next level with this beautiful, nourishing facial oil from the Codex Beauty range. The new collection of products from the range are powered by only natural ingredients that are free from artificial chemicals. The dry oil will help to hydrate, firm, and smooth the skin thanks to its essential fatty acids, rosehip oil, kiwi seed oil, prickly pear seed oil, and sea buckthorn oil; ideal for everyday skincare routines.

Codex Beauty Facial Oil 30ml €100.

30 I IWD Beauty I Winter 2019

Tonify

Close those pores! Toners are an important part of any beauty regime as they remove excess oil, balance the skin’s pH levels to defend against bacteria, and reduce the appearance of pores. As a unique Irish product, Green Angel Seaweed and Facial Toner is uniquely formulated by combining renowned products such as the Linden flower, cucumber, lettuce, and sage extracts with various seaweed extracts harvested from the unpolluted waters off the west coast of Ireland; a musthave for oily Irish complexions.

Green Angel Seaweed and Facial Toner 100ml, €16.95.

KC 2019 210x297 WinterIWD brides2.qxp_Layout 1 11/06/2019 21:48 Page 1

All Inclusive Winter Wedding Special Available ON selected dates in Jan, Feb, & March 2020

Price €65pp

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Scents Bridal

With Beauty Editor

Classic Love

Elaine Hession

Looking to add to your bridal fragrance wardrobe?

Meet the latest additions to the perfume world.

Feminine

A true bridal favourite, Penhaligon’s Agarwood is a warm, intoxicating fragrance with a gentle spice of

Truly

nutmeg and white pepper, finished with the nuance of rum and the softness of precious musk.

Penhaligon’s Agarwood 100ml €198.

Love Golden

A beautiful fresh floral scent with a gorgeous infusion of gardenia, white musk, cinnamon

leaves, and Sri Lankan sandalwood makes it a perfect bridal addition to your big day.

Aura Mugler Sensuelle, 50mls €84.50.

Bell of the

Ball

Rolling in Love is a sophisticated infusion of ambrette and almond milk combined with deep undertones of vanilla and white musk for an intense oriental fragrance.

The iconic intense red- and gold-

Fall head over heels for this beautiful blend of

accented bottle oozes passion and

lychee, mimosa, rose petals, orange flower,

sophistication; a truly unforgettable

gardenia, and marzipan; a truly romantic scent.

scent for special moments.

Estee Lauder, Beautiful Belle 50ml €83.

Kilian, Rolling in Love, 50ml €205.

Beauty

Luxury Perfect

Floral

Add the finishing touches to your wedding day with Tom Ford’s Métallique Eau de Parfum. An exquisite fragrance of aldehydes and florals infused with a warm blend of woods and balsams to make it the perfect luxury bridal scent.

Tom Ford, Métallique Eau de Parfum, 50mls €116.

Romantic The

An elegant romantic bouquet of white flowers combined with jasmine, ylang-ylang, orange blossom, and tuberose combined with base notes of sandalwood and musk make Chanel’s Gabrielle an obvious bridal scent.

Chanel Gabrielle Essence, 100mls €129

32 I IWD Beauty I Beauty Scents

Rose & Cuir is a wave of extreme freshness with a twist of airy rose combined with base notes of leather for a diverse yet complementary fragrance.

The new scent is the perfect symphony to wear on any special occasion.

Frederic Malle, Rose & Cuir, 100ml €200.

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

Carpet Bride Blushing

Red

With Beauty Editor

Elaine Hession

A newbie from the Clarins Autumn

Winter collection and the first Clarins

Add a touch of red-carpet glamour to you wedding day with latest beauties for Autumn Winter

Perfect Lip

This season add a touch of colour to your lips. Introducing four new shades to the collection of lip perfectors .

blush to be enriched with plant oils to nourish the skin. For an extra dimension sweep along the apples of the cheeks for pure definition, thanks to its fine feather light texture that adapts to all skin tones. Clarins Jolie Blush €32

Finish Bridal

A great choice if you are looking for a soft natural

The “cushion” applicator is designed to

completion on your big day. The new Clarins Everlasting

expertly hug every curve of your lips as it

Youth Fluid gives great coverage whilst also giving total

dispenses the perfect amount of high-

hydration. Ideal for long days and longer nights. The

sensory melting gel for a uniform finish.

dual action formula has an anti-aging ingredient with

Clarins Intense Lip Perfector €20

added organic argan oil chicory and red jania to promote

Nails Perfect

Perfect for on the run brides who need to keep their nails in tip top condition. CND have recently released two handy, easy to use pens with a soft brush to release essential oils to keep nails strong and conditioned.

Solaroil® Care Pen €14.95 Rescuerxx® Care Pen €15.95

the removal of dead skin cells. Over time you will even notice that your skin will start to look smoother, more radiant and reflect light. Ideal to use on the run up to your wedding.

Clarins Everlasting Youth Fluid €40

Shape Create &

Create, shape, sculpt and enhance your features with 3 matte contouring powders and three subtly shimmery highlighting powders. A weightless coverage to create a natural looking dimension.

Available in light/ medium and medium dark/dark MAC Studio Fix Sculpt & Shape €41.95

Nourish Restore &

Colour your most cherished moments with the A/W collection from CND™ Rich, grounded tones channel a vintage vibe to make up the CND™ Treasured Moments Collection, as you escape into your most sentimental memories of your wedding day. The Treasured Moments collection comprises of; ultimate warm nude ‘Baby Smile’, delicious mulberry ‘Secret Diary’, rich cranberry ‘First Love’, khaki green ‘Cap & Gown’, and pumpkin spice orange ‘B-Day Candle’.

34 I IWD Beauty I Red Carpet Specials

CND, The Treasured Moments Collection €14.95 each

Luster Lip

Carpet Red

With Beauty Editor

Elaine Hession

Bronze Gold &

Deepen you contour with MAC’s Bronzer in Golden. The light texture applies as a sheer powder to give a wash of luminous golden colour that can be swept all over the face for a lit-from within warm glow. Perfect for that desired honey glow all year round MAC’s Bronzer in Golden €31 Fall in love with the newest lip colours from MAC to bring a splash of vibrant colour to your red-carpet moment. The new creamy

Define Lip

Define your look with for flawless lip looks. MAC Love Me Lipstick 316s Lip brush €22.00

conditioning texture and weightless satin-silk soft infusion gives ultimate comfort to the lips as well as give an intense pop of colour.

Available in 24 dynamic colours to suit any bridal look.

Pout Red

Maison Rouge €20 - Let Them Eat Cake €20

Girl Glow

Create a luminous, sheer colour on your lips on your wedding day. A lightweight, hydrating texture with hyaluronic acid leaves your lips feeling so comfortable you’ll forget it’s there. The brush effortlessly maximizes shine with even coverage and minimizes smearing when layering over other lip colour. Add coats to build from sheer to medium coverage.

Hand

Estée Lauder, Pure Colour Envy Kissable Lip Shine

Hand in

€28

Get your hands in perfect condition with Le Lift

by Chanel. The anti-ageing hand cream boasts a rich blend of botanical ingredients to really brightened, restore and intensely nourish hands.

The nourishing texture envelops skin, leaving hands feeling velvety-soft for long-lasting

Perfect Pout

comfort. Non-sticky and quick-absorbing, it is

Perfect your pout. The MAC lip

extremely gentle on the skin and suitable for all

primer soothes, refines and defines

skin types, including sensitive ones. Its subtle

lips to improves appearance of

and refined fragrance is infused with springtime

your favourite lip colour. Ideal for

freshness. Zesty and botanical notes delicately

keeping your colour perfectly in

perfume the skin and offer a refreshing and

place

revitalising sensation. The handy new shaped

MAC Prep & Prime €17.50

Australian tanning brand b.tan are launching an all in one face and body gradual tanning mist you glow girl is perfect for topping up pre-existing tan

pack is an essential for honeymoon getaways.

or giving your skin a sun kissed glow

Chanel, LE LIFT HAND CREAM & SERUM

on the go.

€65

B. Tan you glow girl €10

Red Carpet Specials I IWD Beauty I 35

The Art of Conflict...

How to solve problems and maintain a healthy, loving relationship

By Carmel Russell

36 I IWD Feature I Relationships

A

s couples start out on the journey of married life together everything seems rosy but we all know that there will be choppy waters ahead in your married life. Conflict is inevitable in any relationship as couples get to know one another on a deeper level. No matter how young or old we are, we have all accumulated little habits and idiosyncrasies that, to us, seem totally normal but can seem odd to others, and even annoying.

So, how should we fight?

In a 2013 study by relationship expert John M Gottman (www.gottman.com) from the University of Washington, they found they could predict which couples would divorce by observing the first three minutes of an argument. They sat 124 newlywed couples down and asked them to discuss a point of

The same applies to your new partner who

differences in a marriage is important and it

disagreement within the relationship.

will bring to the relationship their own habits,

goes both ways so he’ll need to bend a little

found that those who started off an argument

foibles and possibly obsessions that you’ll

towards your thinking and you to his, but he’s

with a negative attack on their

struggle to become accustomed to. Many of

never going to clean the floors the way you

partner’s character, followed

these quirks, which seemed charming when

like them done. In a healthy relationship both

by

dating, can become a point of conflict when

parties realise that their partner has different

from the partner were

you’re exposed to them 24/7.

interests, hobbies, needs and priorities.

more likely to end in

a

defensive

They

approach

separation. In fact of They say that opposites attract so naturally you and your partner will have different approaches to many everyday situations. You and your partner will have had different upbringings with different role models and so naturally

Opposites attract so naturally you and your partner will have different approaches to many everyday situations you’ll disagree on how to handle some situations and this will create

Many quirks, which seemed charming when dating, can become a point of conflict when you’re exposed to them 24/7

the 17 couples who were

separated

six

years later, all stared off the row with a negative attack on their partner’s

character

rather than the issue at hand. “You’re lazy What to remember though is that conflict is not

and never do anything

in itself a bad thing: how you handle conflict

around

will be the difference between a healthy loving

rather than “You forgot

relationship which will stand the test of time

to put the bins out last

and one that will end up on the rocks with a

night”.

the

house”

lot of heartache along the way. Many of the reasons for conflict are minor like

not

Dr.

Gottman

concluded

conflict. Let’s take housework as

things

putting

that: “The biggest lesson to

an example. It might seem a

dirty washing in the wash

be learned from this study

little sexist but men, in general,

basket or not cleaning

is that the way couples

do not put the same importance

the shower and these

begin

on a clean and tidy house as

petty

the fairer sex. Don’t get me

won’t

wrong, they like a clean

relationship.

and tidy house, but they

grievances break

up

resulting

takes to keep it that way 24/7,

become

discussion

about a problem – how

a

you present an issue

But if

and how your partner

not handled correctly, the

see the amount of effort it

a

conflict

will

responds to you – is absolutely critical.”

destructive,

do a quick cost benefit analysis

causing

distress,

in their head, and decide it’s

unhappiness and hostility;

the initial starting point of conflict resolution

not worth the effort. Either that

and that is a recipe for an

right the next thing we need to do is listen.

or they’re just lazy. You could

unhappy marriage. Even

If you ask your partner “Why didn’t you put

spend your life trying to get them

the happiest couples will

the bins out” the least you can do is listen to

around to your way of thinking,

argue from time to time

the response. And likewise if your partner is

once

you’ve

got

be involved in a constant battle

but

the

asking you why you didn’t clean the shower,

and ultimately fail. Their

argument, and more

the best response is the real one, even if it

importantly, after the row, they

makes you look bad. If you were too tired, or

idea of clean and ours are totally different anyway. Acceptance of the

throughout

So

will maintain respect for each other.

you were watching cats surfing on YouTube

Relationships I IWD Feature I 37

and forgot, own it, say it and apologise for it.

it when you’re both in a position to discuss the

where compromise will be much more difficult.

It’s a lot easier than trying to come up with a

matter calmly. Attacking your husband for not

Having a strategy on how to solve conflicts will

believable excuse that doesn’t make you look

using a coaster for his beer in the middle of

make this a lot easier. It will also be a good

like a fool. Once we start being defensive and

the Champions League final will just make your

lesson for children as if they see their parents

deflecting (yeah but you left the lights on last

partner think he’s married a lunatic.

discussing matters calmly they’ll be much

Tuesday) we run the risk of extending the fight

better at handling conflict themselves be it with

and bringing up old grievances which is a very

siblings or later in life. If they see their parents

slippery slope. Remember, stay on topic, deal with the issue at hand and stay calm.

It seems counterintuitive but the more you

To resolve a problem it will require compromise on both sides

fighting aggressively and dismissively they are also likely to repeat this.

shout the less you are heard, as all your partner sees is the emotion rather than the argument.

If a row ends after a shouting match it appears

When you are calm you will recognise that to

the one who shouted the loudest won but

resolve a problem it will require compromise

while they might have won the argument,

on both sides. Too often we concentrate on

they haven’t resolved anything. In reality

winning the argument rather than solving the

they’ve probably made matters worse as their

problem. If you find that after discussing the

partner will feel frustrated, undermined and

issue you haven’t reached a resolution, take

disrespected and will also have lost respect for

a step back and analyse the problem honestly

their partner.

including your own part in why you haven’t resolved it. You’ll probably find there needs to

If a row is beginning to get out of hand, with

be a little compromise by both parties.

a lot of shouting and very little listening, take a break. This will give you both time to calm

John M. and Julie Gottman, who have

down and allow you to get off the road to a full

extensively researched what makes a happy

on blow out. When you come back to tackle

marriage have some great advice on finding a

the problem you should be calmer which will

compromise. They suggest you do an exercise

allow you to express your feelings but also

with your partner to find a path to solving

acknowledge your partner’s point of view and

problems.

So the main points to reach a successful conflict

look for solutions to the problem rather than

resolution style seem to be:

blame. After a row that got out of hand it’s a

“Decide together on a solvable problem to

good idea to review it when things have calmed

tackle. Then separately draw two circles—a

down. Try to see where it got out of hand and

smaller one inside a larger one. In the inner

why and look for trigger points that you can

circle list aspects of the problem you can’t give

avoid in future arguments.

in on. In the outer circle, list the aspects you

•

Start off the discussion positively.

can compromise about. Try to make the outer

•

Listen to your partner.

Of course the best way to avoid a row

circle as large as possible and your inner circle

•

Keep to the problem at hand.

overheating is not to have one in the first place.

as small as possible. Then come back and look

•

Do not escalate.

There are a number of ways to avoid conflict

for common bases for agreement.”

•

If things are getting heated, take a

a full blown fight. Picking a good time to bring

It’s vitally important to get a handle on how

•

up a discussion is important. We all know your

to resolve conflicts successfully in the early

partner will drive you mad at times but when

stage of a relationship before children come

•

Don’t argue when drinking.

you are still angry is not the best time to try to

along. While household chores and going out

•

Don’t ridicule or insult your partner.

resolve the issue. That doesn’t mean you have

may seem important, compromise is always

•

Be prepared to compromise.

to supress it until it gives you an ulcer but you

possible. Issues around children such as

•

Be willing to admit your part in the

can mark the fact that you’re angry and say

discipline and school choices are issues which

“We’ll need to sort this out later” and return to

couples may have very strong views on and

•

discussion.

break.

turning into an argument which then turns into

38 I IWD Feature I Relationships

Choose a suitable time to start the

Focus on solving the problem, not winning the argument.

problem.

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Stress, What Stress?

Clinical hypnosis may be the answer to all your wedding stress.

By Psychologist and Master Hypnotist Jason O’Callaghan M.Sc., BA (Hons), H.Dip.

F

rom losing weight for your wedding to getting the groom to quit smoking for the big day and getting the father of the bride the confidence to make that all important speech, brides are turning to clinical hypnotherapy to help overcome some of the stresses that come with the special day.

Keith Barry, Derren Brown or Paul McKenna on

What is difference between stage and clinical hypnosis?

TV, ensuring some person clucks like a chicken

Stage hypnosis is a parlour trick and it works

or thinks they are the world’s greatest pop

on the 10% of the audience who are highly

star. However, clinical hypnotherapy is showing

suggestable and it is being used more and more

more and more scientific results in helping

at weddings as entertainment with agencies

people reduce anxiety, stop smoking, increase

such as Audio Networks booking out Wedding

confidence for public speaking and reduce

Hypnotists to entertain your guests. This is a

weight.

special treat for your guests and not something

Some people’s only idea of hypnosis is seeing

they will have seen at any other weddings.

40 I IWD Feature I Wedding Stress

Another 10% of people don’t want to be or won’t allow themselves to be hypnotised and the rest fall somewhere in between, going

Stage hypnosis is a parlour trick and it works on 10% of the audience to different levels. As a psychologist I have studied and practised clinical hypnosis to help clients to change for nearly a decade. But, how can it help you with your big day and on making your life and that of your other half and family easier on the run up to and on the big day?

Weight Loss for the big day Firstly, hypnosis is proven to help people lose weight by making them so aware of

Hypnosis is also used for insomnia, stress and anxiety reduction which are commonplace for brides in the weeks and days before the big day, leading to big

what they are doing in relation to food

black circles under the eyes which

that it stops them snacking and over

are never a good look to have for

eating, it focuses them on getting out

the wedding

to exercise and setting goals to lose term and to keep it off in the long term.

Most therapists will help you by putting together a programme to help you to plan your weight loss in the months coming up to your wedding.

Hypnosis gives you the motivation to exercise more and eat less. The definition of hypnosis is a heightened state of awareness, which means you will be unable to eat junk without thinking of yourself in your wedding dress, therefore stopping you eating it before it’s gone.

The definition of hypnosis is a heightened state of awareness also

one

of

the

So how does it work? experience every day, it’s like daydreaming or missing an exit on the motorway due to being in a world of your own. Advertising, marketing and branding are all forms of hypnosis as is text messaging and then walking into a wall.

It’s focused attention on another place or time and allowing your mind to wander.

A hypnotherapist interviews the client to see how they can help and how they want to change. They then put the person into a very relaxed place using certain words and imagery; after a number of minutes the client goes into a

most

what’s going on.

reprogramming the unconscious mind to allow them to leave the habit behind them once and for all. If you think that a smoker spends around €4,000 a year on the habit, that’s a big chunk of the wedding budget; if both of you smoke, that’s €8,000 a year. By quitting alone, you could pay for most weddings with two years of fags?

The Big Speech Few fathers of the bride or best men are

is becoming more and more widely used to help best men and fathers of the brides, who may not be used to speaking in public, get over that hurdle. Interestedly a fear of public speaking is the number one fear in the western world, even more then death. In other words, some

people

Few fathers of the bride or best men are known for their public speaking abilities All hypnosis is self-hypnosis, no one can make someone becoming hypnotised, that

so, for wedding speeches, hypnotherapy

fear

themselves a hypnotherapist or a counsellor or a psychologist. Unlike other countries like the USA, Australia or France.

Hypnosis is natural state that most of us experience every day Therefore, insist that whomever you pick to do hypnotherapy with is a trained medical professional, ideally a trained psychologist, doctor, dentist, (if it’s for fear of needles or dentist visits) a nurse or even a trained counsellor but not someone who has done a weekend course and is only certified by a college or school that issues their own certs. QQI offer Government backed courses if the person does not have a professional qualification.

Make sure they work out of an office and not a hotel room (yes, some therapists do this) like a travelling sales man. Also make sure that they do not put on a recording with you sitting in a

successful treatments to help smokers quit, by

known for their public speaking abilities

is no legislation to stop anyone calling

Hypnosis is natural state that most of us

trance like state but can still respond and hear

Stop Smoking therapy is

Sadly, like so many trades in Ireland there

photos.

weight in the medium

Hypnotherapy

Finding a therapist

really is something from TV. No one can make you do anything you don’t want to do under hypnosis and it is in fact one of the most underused and misunderstood therapies in the world.

chair with headphones on listening to a prerecorded session.

Hypnosis is not for everyone but it can help and is peer reviewed to help with a variety of issues and not just those mentioned. In my clinic we see people for eating disorders, IBS, confidence for job interviews, cutting out chocolate, reducing alcohol consumption and many more day to day issues to help you deal with the big day and make it as enjoyable as possible.

You will hear everything that goes on and a good therapist will record your session so you can do it at home again and again to reinforce the treatment.

Jason O’Callaghan runs and owns The D4 Clinic in Blackrock in Dublin. Call 01 6855511 or see www.d4clinic.ie

getting up to make a speech more then they fear dying?

Weddign Stress I IWD Feature I 41

The Best Start for Your New Family The Importance of Folic Acid

A

become

best approach is for women to build folic acid

Prof Michael Turner, UCD Professor of Obstetrics

pregnant are being encouraged

into their daily routine and reduce their risk of

and Gynaecology at the Coombe Women and

to make taking folic acid a daily

having a baby with a Neural Tube Defect. I’m

Infants University Hospital continued “Women

ll

women

who

could

habit, irrespective of whether they

greatly encouraged that there was a reported

should start folic acid before they become

are planning a pregnancy or not. Safefood’s

increase in women taking folic acid following

pregnant and not wait until they are planning a

campaign “Babies Know the Facts About

safefood’s campaign last year and I hope this

pregnancy or until after they become pregnant.

Folic” is also reminding women that taking a

will be repeated and improved on this year, as

Taking a 400 microgram folic acid supplement

folic acid supplement daily is the best way to

more women make this a daily habit.”

every day can potentially prevent two thirds of Neural Tube Defects every year – on average,

reduce the risk of having a baby with a Neural Tube Defect (NTD) like Spina Bifida.

Welcoming the campaign, Minister of State at the Department of Health responsible for Public Health Promotion, Marcella Corcoran Kennedy T.D said “It’s so important that our folic acid message reaches women, not just those thinking about having a baby. With research¹ showing that only 1 in 4 women report taking folic acid before they are actually pregnant, the

42 I IWD Feature I Health & Wellbeing

Taking a 400 microgram folic acid supplement every day can potentially prevent two thirds of Neural Tube Defects every year

that’s approximately 50 fewer babies affected every year.”

The safefood campaign aims to improve on the 2015 campaign which saw a significant increase in awareness that all women should take folic acid (+48%) and an increase in those reporting taking folic acid routinely even though they were not planning a pregnancy (+7%) And there were also positive increases in folic acid

sales during the campaign (+26% average

“Folic acid is widely available, doesn’t

year on year). However, the reported behaviour

require a prescription and doesn’t cost

changes were from a very low starting level.

more than a couple of cents a day”, added Dr Foley-Nolan. “By taking folic

Dr Rhona Mahony, Master, National Maternity

acid daily, women are taking control of

Hospital, Holles Street continued “We know

their own health. Taking folic doesn’t

that women are aware of the benefits of taking

mean you are planning a baby but it does

folic acid but with up to 50% of all pregnancies²

mean that when you do have a baby, however

being unplanned, it’s so important that all

unplanned or far in the future that may be, you

women who could become pregnant start

are already helping to protect their health.”

taking it daily, even if a baby is the last thing on their mind. A baby’s neural tube develops in

Supported by Spina Bifida Hydrocephalus

the first few weeks of pregnancy when many

Ireland and Shine NI, the safefood campaign

women may be unaware they are pregnant and

“Babies Know the Facts About Folic” will

for this reason they need to make folic acid part

feature on social and digital media with

of their daily routine.”

added in-store promotional support across the island of Ireland from pharmacies, folic acid manufacturers, GP surgeries and retail

“Folic acid is widely available, doesn’t require a prescription and doesn’t cost more than a couple of cents a day”, Dr Cliodhna Foley-Nolan, Director of Human Health & Nutrition, safefood continued: “For a healthy mum and baby, the only way to

outlets where folic acid is sold.

For more information visit www.safefood.eu/folicacid or follow the conversation using the hashtag #FolicFacts

“Women should start folic acid before they become pregnant and not wait until they are planning a pregnancy”

get adequate levels of folic acid is by taking it every day as a 400 microgram supplement and making that a daily habit. Taking a daily supplement is the only way to go. There has been some recent debate about fortification of foods with folic acid, this is still some way off. Even with fortified foods

taking

the

daily supplement provides

best

protection of the unborn

baby’s

spine and brain”.

Health & Wellbeing I IWD Feature I 43

Win One of These Great Prizes October For our October Competition The Bridal Lounge is giving one lucky reader the chance to win two Bridesmaid dresses to the value of â‚Ź225 each.

At The Bridal Lounge you will discover your individual bridal style within an intimate boutique setting. Exquisite gowns for realistic budgets and unbiased, friendly advice to help guide you through your Bridal shopping journey.

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44 I IWD Feature I Competition

Clonfolic A4 2019-ADV-FOL-052C Consumer_FA.pdf

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48 I IWD Feature I Wedding Dresses

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Wedding Dresses I IWD Feature I 49

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Wedding Dresses I IWD Feature I 51

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Wedding Dresses I IWD Feature I 53

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56 I IWD Feature I Wedding Dresses

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Wedding Dresses I IWD Feature I 57

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Wedding Dresses I IWD Feature I 59

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Dress by The Bridal Lounge Austin Friar St., Mullingar, Co. Westmeath 044 9335298 www.thebridallounge.ie

60 I IWD Bridal I Coolbawn Quay

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Coolbawn Quayl I IWD Bridal I 61

Dress by The Bridal Lounge 62 I IWD Bridal I Coolbawn Quay

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66 I IWD Bridal I Coolbawn Quay

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Coolbawn Quay I IWD Bridal I 67

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Coolbawn Quay I IWD Bridal I 69

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Coolbawn Quay I IWD Bridal I 71

72 I IWD Bridal I Coolbawn Quay

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Dress by The Bridal Lounge Austin Friar St., Mullingar, Co. Westmeath 044 9335298 www.thebridallounge.ie

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TA K E A S T E P

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TO YOUR DREAM

wedding

YOURS

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Darek Novak Photography

TIPPERARY | IRELAND

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A Venue for all Seasons Four Seasons Hotel, Spa & Leisure Club, Carlingford, Co. Louth T: +353 (0)42 93 73530 | E: events@fshc.ie | www.4seasonshotelcarlingford.ie

How to Choose your Wedding Photographer We ask some experts for advice on choosing a wedding photographer for your big day.

W

edding photography is an art, which, if done correctly, will record your wedding day for posterity and leave you with beautiful images that you will enjoy well into your old age.

As you grow old and grey and begin to lose your faculties, your pictures will remain bright and fresh, keeping your memories forever young. It will capture you and your partner in the prime of your life on one of the happiest days of your lives and therefore should not be left in the hands of an amateur. Your wedding day can never be reproduced, and the right wedding photographer will leave you with happy memories for life while the wrong one will leave you with nothing but regrets.

Your wedding album will become a family

but how do you go about choosing the right

heirloom which will be treasured for generations

photographer for your special day.

wedding

photography

styles

and

each

photographer has their unique style. Traditional classic photography is gorgeous, with tried-andtested romantic shots that are slightly formal but not overly staged. Most photographers have this style in their armoury as it’s the standard starting point for weddings and most albums will contain some of these classic shots.

These images stand the test of time and will not feel dated in 20 or 30 years.

You can also go more artistic; you and the photographer can get creative and design some unique shots that are highly staged,

and your wedding day can never be reproduced

or just you and your partner messing about.

The right wedding photographer will leave you

Photography Style

with happy memories for life while the wrong

First, you’ll have to think about what type of

one will leave you with nothing but regrets

photos you like. There are many different

There’s also a documentary style where the photographer tries to capture the ordinary

With experience comes a cool head if something which shouldn’t happen, happens Dermot Byrne - Wedding Photographer

80 I IWD Feature I Photography

You need to get on with and like your photographer. You need to make sure that the photographer is on YOUR wavelength and you are on theirs.

Corin Bishop - Wedding Photographer

moments of the day and make them beautiful.

Regardless of the style, show these to your

If you find a photographer that you think

Your photographer might also cheat a little and

prospective photographer, and they will know

can match your style, ask them for access to

stage a couple of ‘candid moments’ that reflect

what you want from your big day and if it is

their full gallery of their wedding photos. Most

what’s happening. You can also go for dramatic

something they can deliver.

photographers will have their best shots on their homepage and in their gallery, but by looking at

shots, which again are highly stylised with strong lighting to create one dramatic image.

The Photographer

a few full weddings, you’ll get a better idea of

Contemporary photography will try to reflect

When you’ve got an idea of what type of

the full range of images they shoot.

the today’s fashion, and while these might

photography you like, you’ll need to find the

seem a little dated in a few years, with time

photographer to match. Don’t limit yourself

When you’ve narrowed it down to a few, you

they will reflect the period and place in which

to photographers in your particular area as

really need to meet the photographer. I’ve

you got married.

most photographers will travel to a wedding

spoken with photographers who have been

within reason; if you’re in west Cork, a Belfast

booked for a wedding by couples who like

Having said all that, don’t get hung up about

photographer probably isn’t for you. In the

their images and are happy with the price

a particular style. Do your research by looking

meantime, if you’re attending a wedding,

but who haven’t met them. Naturally these

at as many wedding photographs as you can

keep an eye on the photographer to see

photographers are delighted that their work

find. Thankfully, most photographers have

how they interact with the bride and groom

speaks for itself, but they’re a little nervous as

extensive galleries on their websites, so it’s not

and the guests. If you don’t really notice the

they know that a successful day depends on how

difficult to do much research to find the style

photographer, it’s probably a good sign. Ask

the photographer and the couple interact. It’s

of photography you like. Look for images that

friends who were married recently about

vitally important that you feel comfortable with

give you an emotional reaction like an ‘oooh’ or

their experiences, good and bad, with their

the photographer you choose as you’re going

an ‘aaah’, or better still a ‘WOW!’ or an ‘OMG!’

photographer.

to spend a lot of time with them throughout

Classic Wedding Photography

Dermot Byrne

Dermot Byrne

Gerry Dolan

Dermot Byrne

Gerry Dolan

David McNeill

Photography I IWD Feature I 81

“Always ensure you view complete wedding photographs so you can see how the photographer covers every element of the day” David McNeill Wedding Photographer

the day, from the most stressful moments when

wile still being polite and respectful.

When you’re looking for a photographer, initially, don’t limit yourself to a particular budget. You’re

you’re getting ready, through the ceremony, and on to the first dance. If there is tension,

Your Budget

only looking at this stage, and can compare

it has the potential to put a dampener on the

How much you are willing or able to spend on

photographers in different price ranges. You

whole day. Having an engagement shoot with

your photographer is one of the major decisions

might fall in love with a photographer who is

the photographer would be a great way of

you will have to make. Whether you aim to

more expensive, and can then decide if it’s

establishing a rapport with them and to see if

spend €500 or €5000, you’ll probably be able

worth sacrificing something else to get the

you click.

to hire a photographer somewhere who will

photo’s you really want. Alternatively, you might

shoot a wedding to suit your budget. However,

hit on a photographer who is less expensive

As award-winning wedding photographer, Corin

the end results for different rates will obviously

than you budgeted for, and end up being able

Bishop, says, ‘You need to get on with and like

be entirely different. Make sure your package

to splash out on business class flights for your

your photographer. You need to make sure that

includes a wedding album, and choose the

honeymoon. Remember, however, if someone

the photographer is on your wavelength and

specific album you want.

is very cheap, there is usually a good reason for this. ‘Buy cheap, buy twice’ may be fine for

you are on theirs.’ Each and every photographer is unique, they all take different images and

There has been an upsurge in photographers

a pair of socks, but a wedding day cannot be

have a unique style”

offering packages that supply digital-only

repeated.

images, but we advise against taking this Remember a wedding photographer is not just

option. Even if you do print out your photos,

According to Galway wedding photographer,

a creative artistic person who will create and

the quality of the prints can be hit-and-miss,

Gerry Dolan, “The wedding photography is the

capture beautiful moments. They also need

and they won’t do the photography justice.

only thing you’ll take away from the day apart from your love, your happy memories and a

to be a master technician in charge of their equipment, a people’s person who can cajole

There is a vast difference between a good

slice of the wedding cake. Like any major spend

and organise your guests and family members

quality album, and simply receiving images on

if you do your research and you’ll find value but

into group shots and get cranky guests smiling

a USB drive.

if it looks too good to be true, it probably is.”

Creative & Contemporary Wedding Photography Dermot Byrne

David McNeill

82 I IWD Feature I Photography

Dermot Byrne

David McNeill

Gerry Dolan

Dermot Byrne

Dermot Byrne

Dermot Byrne

Gerry Dolan

David McNeill

Gerry Dolan

Documentary Wedding Photography According

to

award-winning

photographer,

also being able to spend time with your family

Experience

Dermot Byrne, “With experience comes a cool

The final aspect to consider when choosing

head if something which shouldn’t happen,

your wedding photographer is how experienced

happens. The photographer will be able to

The Small Print

they are. Having an experienced wedding

concentrate on getting the best out of the

Finally, when you’ve chosen the photographer

photographer is vitally important if things don’t

venue, your guests and your time. It means

you want, sort out the contract. Nobody wants

quite go according to plan on the day, as they

the photography should be fun and creative

to end up in a dispute, so make sure all the

will likely have experienced such situations

and you’ll get everything you need in a relaxing

important details are included. Be fully aware

previously, and will know how to get things

way.”

of what’s part of your package, and more

back on track. They’ll have two cameras in case

and friends on your special day.

importantly, what is not. Will the photographer

there’s a problem with one, and they’ll have a

An experienced, professional photographer will

stay until after you’ve cut the cake, until after

backup person to take their place if they are

probably have been to your wedding venue in

the speeches, or until after the first dance? Will

ill; they’ll also backup images early and often,

the past, and will know the best places from

there be a second photographer? How many

avoiding any chance of losing your photos.

which to take photos, and where to go for

images will you get and how much will the

shots if the weather turns bad. They would

additional cost be for extra prints for family and

The beauty of an experienced photographer

have dealt with the wedding planner at your

friends? These added extras can really add up,

is that they can spot the signs early on when

hotel and will know how to get along with

so be sure that these details are clearly stated

things start to go awry, and can work with you

them, thereby keeping everyone happy. Most

in advance. While you don’t want to stifle your

to make sure your wedding day runs according

importantly, they’ll know how to keep the

photographer with a list of shots they must take,

to plan. They’ll know if the makeup artist is

wedding running on time. While photographs

if there is an elderly granny or a family member

taking too long, when the groom should be

are important, you don’t want to be away from

who has travelled a large distance to attend,

getting dressed, and when you need to leave

your guests a minute longer than you have to,

and who you’d love to get a picture with, tell

to get to the church on time, and still get some

and the photographer is key to getting the right

your photographer in advance. A professional

shots on the way.

people in the right place at the right time to

photographer may be very talented, but they’re

ensure that you get the shots you want, while

not psychic.

The wedding photography is the only thing you’ll take away from the day apart from your love, your happy memories and a slice of the wedding cake Gerry Dolan Wedding Photographer

Photography I IWD Feature I 83

Zone

Comfort

Hide Raw

G ifts Made W it h Love ^

Cow hide and wood occasional chair €1,495

www.idyllhome.co.uk

With its dynamic shape featuring an

Lines

unbroken, flowing design, the Inntil Sofa creates its own ‘comfort zone’.

Curved

€5,100 www.gomodern.co.uk

Tray Teal

Spoon

End

Fresh

Falling metal bookend that supports your books at an angle and incorporates them into a dramatic situation on your bookshelf.

Canvas Home, Olso 20 Piece cutlery set at The Wedding Shop €276

Tubes Test

Choose this vibrant lemon yellow Wesco Breadboy Bread Bin

A wonderfully simple and unique way of

to liven up your kitchen and keep your bread fresh.

displaying individual flowers combining rustic wood and glass test tubes. €55 www.madebyhandonline.com

84 I IWD Feature I Wedding Gifts

today. €55 www.redcandy.co.uk

The

€35www.idyllhome.co.uk

€7 www.redcandy.co.uk

and sharp creases still hold huge appeal

Golden

Fiskardo Teal green enamel tray

Bread

This silver beauty was originally designed in Europe in the 1930’s, and its curved lines

€25 www.animicausa.com

Lantern Solar

G ifts Made W it h Love ^ Vase

Melville Solar Lantern €23 Lights4fun.co.uk

Cobra

Mini

Golden

Large Cobra Snake Ornament €140 www.audenza.com

Woman Magnetic

LSA, Mia Mini vase at The Wedding Shop €28

Empire

The Magnetic Woman. Superstrong and

stylish, Connect her to any metal surface and let her hold your keys! €15 www.animicausa.com

Great

Splash A Big

Great Empire’s take centuries to build, and those who rise after taking

An indoor watering can from Burgon &

a fall find their true strength.

Ball’s Flora and Fauna collection. Crafted in

www.bocadolobo.com

durable galvanized steel, it has an elegant

Gravity

slender spout for targeted watering. €20 www.annabeljames.co.uk

Defying

Luxury True

MISSONI HOME GRAVITÀ SOFA Italian for gravity – so called to reflect the design’s soft, curved lines and deep pile upholstery, creating a feeling of being

Let yourself sink into the luxury of the Joe Cocoon chair and you’ll

pulled towards the earth’s surface. €5,230 www.gomodern.co.uk

never want to leave. The deep, inviting seat and curved backrest are

86 I IWD Feature I Wedding Gifts

beautifully upholstered in classic Lloyd Loom weave, contrasting with the modern steel frame. €570 at Nordic Mood

2020 WEDDING PACKAGES FROM

€40.75pp MINIMUM 100 GUESTS

J A N / F E B / M A R / N O V

1 5 %

D I S C O U N T

Your Wedding Your Way The Lord Bagenal Inn, a family run four star award winning venue in the heart of the South East.

Lord Bagenal Inn Leighlinbridge, Co.Carlow Phone: 00 353 (0)59 9774000 www.lordbagenal.com

Easy Sleep

Flower Shade

G ifts Made W it h Love ^

Floral lamp bty David Trubridge €330 holzdesignpur.de

The Missoni Adar bed features a deep base and a slim, partitioned headboard. €8,100 www.gomodern.co.uk

Holders Brolly

A pair of toothbrush hangers

Organic

that will spread a tranquil feel

throughout your bathroom and add a hint of magic to the air. €10 www.animicausa.com

Dining Classy

Neptune Arundel Dining Table

Comfort Tables

at The Wedding Shop €2,208

Style and

Invite an organic element to your home with this fabulous woven Eartha Bag. The large bag is formed of Metasequoia wood and is large enough for you to store whatever your heart desires. €35 www.sweetpeaandwillow.com

Sulivan nesting tables are an eye catcher.

These exclusive high end pieces show a

refined neoclassical form with sober and elegant lines. www.bocadolobo.com

Green Go

Bring some green into your home by tending to your indoor foliage with this Gold Watering Can with a Nordic luxe theme by Scandi design company Bloomingville €65 www.beaumonde.co.uk

88 I IWD Feature I Wedding Gifts

Nest

The Teo Oak Armchair Upholstered chair brings Scandinavian-style comfort and elegance to meal times. €500 www.nordicmood.co.uk/

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

G ifts Made W it h Love ^ Brick Red

Brick Red Velvet Wall Clock £49 at www.audenza.com

Rocker Little Old

Trolley Drink

Sofa Maxi

Skagerak Drinking Trolley

NARNIA Maxi sofa in black €999 at DFS Co. Plc

Two

Just for

Easton 2 Seater Sofa

Oracle

€649 at Michael Murphy Home Furnishing

The

at The Wedding Shop €735

Grey rocking chair €149.99 at HomeSense

Boil On the

Morphy Richards ‘Evoke’ 1.5L Pyramid Kettle €69 at Harvey Norman

Sage The Oracle Coffee Machine €1,999 at Harvey Norman

Vase

Sea Green

The dreamy decorative accessory has the lovely appearance blooming flower and is the perfect way to add some personality to your living space. It makes a stunning statement piece with or without flowers. £170.00

90 I IWD Feature I Wedding Gifts

www.sweetpeaandwillow.com

First love is only a little foolishness and a lot of curiosity.

The Stephen’s Green Club is an exclusive venue steeped in history, located in the heart of Dublin.

The Club specialises in bespoke intimate weddings from 40-96 people. The best way to experience the atmosphere and gracefulness of the Stephen’s Green Club is to come and visit.

Over 175 years of romance, a lifetime of memories…

12517 – sts001 - Wedding Ad template FP/HP_195mm x 138mm_Wedding Diary_AW.indd 1

9 St Stephen’s Green, Dublin 2 Consultations welcome by appointment: Helen Daly - Sales & Marketing Manager T: (0)1 673 0207 E: helen.daly@stephensgreenclub.ie

09/09/2019 16:05

Bar

At The

G ifts Made W it h Love ^

Classic

Light Easy

Peter Bar Stool €239 at

Michael Murphy Home Furnishing

A Modern

AXEL EASYFIT €60 at Debenhams

Velvet Grey

Eichholtz Jason Sofa £2250 at Sweetpea & Willow

Seat Soft

Grey velvet scallop chair

Cushion

€229.99 at HomeSense

Puffy

Orange Orange

Lola Curvaceous Burnt Orange Velvet Armchair £520 at AUDENZA Swedese, Lamino chair at The Wedding Shop €2339

Hands Golden

Floral Four

Weaver green Nomand Cushion at The Wedding Shop €86.60

Oregon Wall Clock £170 Sweetpea & Willow

92 I IWD Feature I Wedding Gifts

Penelope four-seater sofa in floral velvet €699 at DFS Co. Plc

Weddings

â‚Ź49 Including Wine

from

pp

WEDDINGS EDDINGS & CIVIL IVIL CEREMONIES EREMONIES

Magical Moments are Made at the Midlands Park Hotel Midlands Park Hotel, Town Centre, Portlaoise. Tel: 057 867 8588 | www.midlandsparkhotel.com

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

Planet Light

G ifts Made W it h Love ^ Cooker

Saturn Pendant €120 at Debenhams

Brass

Dual

Black

Smeg 100cm Dual Fuel Cooker €2,599 at Harvey Norman

Pearson Sideboard £1575 at Sweetpea & Willow

Bowl Ace

Warmer Ornate

Tea Pot Oriental

€19.99 at HomeSense

Powder Sofa

Earle Two-seater sofa in powder blue suedette €769 at DFS Co. Plc

Ornate Duchess Radiator £935 from The Old Cinema

Table Side

Coffee

Three for

Product name: Eichholtz Ace Bowl £935 from The Old Cinema

Boy Big

Bodum three-cup coffee maker at

The Wedding Shop €41

Darian II Side Table LUXXU Home

94 I IWD Feature I Wedding Gifts

Senzia 2 Over 3 Tallboy €649 at Michael Murphy Home Furnishing

Tel: 01-6712838 email: info@doyledesigndublin.com web.doyledesigndublin.com

Voted “DUBLIN’S FAVOURITE DESIGNER” by the Craft Council of Ireland & one of “50 BEST SHOPS IN IRELAND” by the Irish Times.

Chandelier G ifts Made W it h Love ^ Fryer Mortar Black

Tahlia Chandelier €160 at Next

Air

Pestle and

Boiler

Mortar & Pestle

Sleek

‘Morty’ by Cookut $48.9 at The Design Gift Shop

Tefal 1.7KG Actifry Genius Air Fryer

Fridge Dark

Fridge from SMEG

€269 at Harvey Norman

Pot Hot

Coalbrook Casserole Pot £35 at Garden Trading

Gathering Family

Sleek Electric Kettle €89 www.einrichten-design.de

Friend Cake & Bakers

Bertoia Big Dining Table For A Family Gather Around www.essentialhome.eu

96 I IWD Feature I Wedding Gifts

The Perfect Kitchen Accessory from Smeg

Julien & John The Guitar Duo

Ceremony & Champagne Reception Specialists

Say I Do

For clips & client reviews www.julienandjohn.com Instagram julienandjohnofficial Call direct for a quote Julien 0872166430 or John 0879117559

HairWedding

by Millie Hair Speak to a member of our team about our impressive Wedding Packages Newcastle West, Co. Limerick 069 25300 sayido@longcourthousehotel.ie

Winner Wedding Venue Newcomer 2018

Main St, Townfields, Cloughjordan, Co. Tipperary Phone: (0505) 42014 See our work on the photoshoot on page 60

The Wedding Shop and Sustainable Gifting

C

reating a sustainable home doesn’t mean you should have to compromise on style.

From hand-crafted baskets, to recycled glasses and cushions it’s easy to add a touch of global goodness to your home. Where better to start making changes to help our planet than at the beginning, with your wedding gift list!

Now, don’t fret, sustainable and ethical homewares have come a long way, it’s not just about cork and woven grasses these days. Today’s planet-friendly products are stylish, functional and also give you that feel-good factor!

Tableware

Get the look!

Nkuku, Ama Side plates – €17.50

Canvas Home, Olso 20 Piece cutlery set – €276

Chilewich, Rectangular placements – €75

LSA, Mia Mini vase – €28

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The Flax Sack Napkins

Canvas Home, Shell Bisque set of 4

€16.50

plates – €53

Inspiration

for your drinks trolley

Skagerak Drinking Trolley – €735

Kenneth Turner,

Nkuku, Large Bottle

Candle, from

LSA, Mia set of highball

€44

tumblers – €30

€26.50

CosyforCorners your living room

Wicklewood, Small medallion cushion – €86.60

Weaver green Nomand

Swedese, Lamino

cushion – €109.50

chair – €2339 Weaver Green Throw – €52

The Wedding Shop is the UK and Ireland’s best and most established wedding gift list and honeymoon fund service. With Unrivalled choice of gifts, full flexibility and exceptional service. From start to finish, from the registration to delivery, The Wedding Shop can offer a helping (and very experienced hand). Come in for a glass of bubbly at one of our beautiful showrooms to see hundreds of gifts in person, meet your dedicated Gift Guru and receive your fabulous goody bag!

Make an appointment: Email Dublinteam@weddingshop.com or call at +353 1661 9045

weddingshop.ie

Weddings I IWD Feature I 99

Venues Leading Wedding

C

hoosing the right reception venue should be an easy task as there are so many venues available, with 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.

Venues

Leading Wedding

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 by not only the venue itself but also the service that these wedding venues offer.

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 Arklow Bay Hotel For the perfect wedding venue in Arklow Co. Wicklow “the garden of Ireland look no further than The Arklow Bay Hotel, Wicklow’s number one wedding venue, the Arklow Bay Hotel offers you the most stunning and unique wedding venue in Co Wicklow.

The location overlooking the Lake side reserve and beside the sea ensures you’ll have the perfect backdrop to capture precious memories on your wedding day. Their experienced wedding co-ordinator Eimear and banqueting team will navigate all details and smooth out any wrinkles so you can relax and enjoy each moment as it unfolds. The Arklow Bay Hotel cater for all wedding sizes and types, including, civil ceremonies.

Read the many wedding testimonials from all their happy clients on the hotel website.

Contact Eimear their devoted wedding & events co-ordinator for your private viewing of the hotel famous for giving you the day you dream about.

Tel: 04022600 or email weddingsandevents@arklowbay.com www.arklowbay.com

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

Breaffy House Resort Breaffy House Resort with its majestic 19th century Victorian façade is located on a stunning 90-acre woodland estate in co. Mayo. It’s ‘castlesque’ appearance makes ‘Destination Breaffy’ the ideal wedding venue.

The hotel offers a range of premium wedding packages and has over 50 years wedding expertise. The Diamond wedding Package includes a Prosecco and strawberries reception, entertainment, canapes, ½ bottle of wine per person, 6-course wedding banquet and hot evening buffet. The luxurious ‘Moet & Chandon Wedding package’ includes all the elements of the Diamond Package plus a Moet & Chandon Champagne reception, Gourmet 6 course wedding banquet and 10 complimentary superior deluxe upgrades.

Additional Bespoke Wedding upgrades include Fireworks, Helicopter Rides & Pre and Post Wedding parties.

Call 094 9044108 Email: weddings@breaffyhouseresort.com Website www.breaffyhouseresort.com

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A Dream Venue only 30 minutes from Dublin

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

Venues

Leading Wedding

Celbridge Manor Hotel The Celbridge Manor Hotel is a truly magical setting for your wedding set amongst beautiful grounds and walled gardens, it’s tree lined avenue and period elegance is sure to impress your guests.

The 1737 Manor is tastefully decorated withholding that old world charm, the romantic character and a family celebrated atmosphere.

Catering for up to 250 guests, its 66 bedrooms are decorated to reflect the Manors quirky, original & vintage theme, with the class & style of your lavish Dream Venue. From the moment you choose the Celbridge Manor Hotel, their wedding team will be on hand through each stage of planning, ensuring that help is always available when needed, recommendations and tips are always to hand and happiness and excitement is within your heart throughout the entire process. Combined with the expertise and professionalism of the team, they promise to be a place where your dreams will become a reality and will remain with you forever.

The beauty and character, with the warm and inviting atmosphere that the Celbridge Manor Hotel creates can only be appreciated by visiting the venue in person to experience for yourself. www.celbridgemanorhotel.ie Tel: 353 (0) 1 601 3700 Email: info@celbridgemanorhotel.ie

Charleville Park Hotel Your guests will be warmly welcomed by our wedding team and will enjoy the splendour of the award winning Deerpark Suite customised for your special day, with mood lighting, crystal chandeliers, a choice of table centre pieces and linens to compliment your wedding party. The Deerparks’s private bar allows your guests to stay together throughout the wedding celebration.

A unique venue for a civil partnership, ceremony, wedding or blessing our stylish and spacious hotel can customise a package to fulfill your dreams. Catering for weddings of all sizes we pride ourselves on making your day, whether big or small, a day to remember for a lifetime.

Check out Sarah Janes Wedding Wednesday Blog on our Social media every week!

Contact Sarah Jane for more information: +353 (0) 63 33710 weddings@charlevilleparkhotel.com

Coolbawn Quay Truly romantic in the most picturesque lakeshore setting Coolbawn Quay is the perfect place to profess eternal love. On the eastern shores of Lough Derg this idyllic “exclusive use” private Village nestles peacefully into the landscape providing a backdrop of great natural beauty to create the wedding of dreams, intimately personal and unique.

Ceremonies and Blessings are held on the deck or under the Crystal Canopy overlooking the Marina.

Receptions for up to 220 guests are hosted in the luxurious “Georgian Style” Pavilion with glorious views over the lake. The mood is relaxed, the style is glam, with accommodation for up to 120 guests in beautiful suites, cosy village rooms and charming lodges scattered throughout the village…. magical.

Contact details Web: www.coolbawnquay.com Email: weddings@coolbawnquay.com Tel: 067 28158

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

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

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

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

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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

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

Fota Island Resort Wonderfully located in the centre of the island’s woodlands and lakes, Fota Island Resort is a very special place for a wedding. From the contemporary exterior to the warmly inviting interiors, the hotel is a marriage of style, fine design and workmanship in a unique location.

The Smith-Barry Suite can accommodate between 120 and 300 guests and with some exciting news soon to be announced, recently engaged couples are welcome to meet the wedding planning team at Fota Island Resort at their Autumn Wedding Showcase on Sunday 6th October from 12pm to 5pm and view the beautiful Smith-Barry Suite and see how their big day at Fota Island Resort could look.

Attention to detail is paramount at Fota Island Resort from Champagne on arrival, a red carpet fit for a movie star to a special menu featuring the best seasonal ingredients.

For more information on weddings at Fota Island Resort visit www.fotaisland.ie, E: weddings@fotaisland.ie or T: +353 (0) 21 488 3700

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.

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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— YOUR FIRST STEP T OWA R D S H A P P I LY EVER AFTER

HOTEL SPA GOLF CLUB GOLF ACADEMY LODGES ADVENTURE Fota Island Resort, Fota Island, Cork, Ireland. www.fotaisland.ie

For further information: T 021 488 3700 E weddings@fotaisland.ie Photo credit: Hennessy Photography Ltd

Venues

Leading Wedding

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

Their wedding team has welcomed hundreds of couples through the fine Georgian doors and find it’s the little details which make a wedding personal to the happy couple and their guests.

The newly reimagined Grand Ballroom has a large foyer and a private entrance leading to a uniquely picturesque, walled wedding garden. This beautiful, enclosed garden is also a favourite spot to exchange vows or host drinks … for those couples lucky enough to catch a radiant Irish summer day.

Show stopping food delivered with passion is also The Johnstown Estate’s calling card. And after a whirlwind day of celebration, couples can relax in the stunning and luxurious 3-room Lady Margaret Suite in the manor house.

Only 35 minutes from Dublin’s city centre, amidst 120 acres of fields and forest, The Johnstown Estate has 120 guest bedrooms and 40 two-bedroom lodges. For those who might like to make it a weekend affair, there is an 18-room Elemis spa, a leisure centre and two fantastic restaurants.

Tel: 046 9540000 or email weddings@thejohnstownestate.com

Kilronan Castle Estate & Spa Kilronan Castle is a stunning venue for your luxury wedding celebration. The romantic setting and breathtaking views are matched by creative menus and impeccable service. This will truly be the luxury castle wedding day you have dreamed of... Every bride wants her wedding to be as memorable and magical as it possibly can be and at Kilronan Castle, the setting couldn’t be more perfect.

The Grand Ballroom can hold numbers from 100 to 350 & with its high wooden panelled walls & rich colour schemes of burgundy & gold it is a perfect location for your Wedding Banquet. They can tailor make packages to suit all budgets.Nestled in the woods, overlooking the commanding beauty of Lough Meelagh, this serene Roscommon location is the quintessential Castle wedding venue.

For more information on this magnificent Castle venue please contact a member of the dedicated Kilronan Castle sales team on 071 96 18000 or email enquiries@kilronancastle.ie

The 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

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 start at just €40.75pp. 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. Offering a 15% discount off weddings booked for Jan/Feb/ Mar/Nov 2020/21. www.lordbagenal.com Ph: 0599 774000

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Our Gardens are the perfect location for your wedding celebrations.

Call Rachel, our dedicated Wedding Co-ordinator to find out more.

Megan & David

“A fabulous venue. We couldn’t have picked a better place and would be delighted to recommend the Glenview Hotel to anyone.”

Glenview Hotel a n d L e i s u r e C lu b

Glenview Hotel & Leisure Club Glen O’ The Downs Delgany Co. Wicklow Tel:: +353 (01) 274 0000 www.glenviewhotel.com sayido@glenviewhotel.com

Venues

Leading Wedding

Lough Eske Castle From the Fairy-tale Castle Tower, to an imposing glass and stone façade, an easy-going blend of casual, country-style comfort and modern luxury awaits you and your guests inside. This award-winning luxury castle hotel offers a fresh perspective on castle living.

Let the magic of Lough Eske Castle become entirely yours for your special day. Utilising years of five-star service and attention to detail, the Castle has carefully designed a unique collection of wedding packages designed to suit all of your tastes. Each package incorporates the sumptuous wedding menus specially designed by Lough Eske Castle’s Executive Chef using an array of the finest locally sourced foods and suppliers.

E: info@lougheskecastlehotel.com T: +353(0)74 97 43163 W: www.lougheskecastlehotel.com

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: Tel: 071 9632700 email: enquiries@loughrynn.ie Lough Rynn Castle, Mohill, Co Leitrim

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

Sheen Falls Lodge Sheen Falls Lodge is one of the most romantic wedding venues in Ireland. The location of this five star hotel on the banks of the Sheen Waterfalls with the highest mountain range in Ireland as a backdrop, ensures a truly memorable day. The team know that no two weddings are the same. Each of their bespoke weddings are designed in collaboration with each couple to create a unique event.

Couples have the opportunity of exclusive use of the hotel and its 300 acre estate, with spectacular scenery for photographs.

The Lodge can accommodate up to 200 guests in The Falls Restaurant with the adjacent Cocktail Bar and Sun Lounge, ideal for your drinks reception and entertainment following your wedding banquet. Our Wedding Executive will take you through every step of your wedding plans ensure that you both enjoy this very special occasion.

Sheen Falls Lodge Kenmare, Co Kerry + 353 (0) 64 6641600 www.sheenfallslodge.ie

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We’ll take it from here…

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

Wedding Packages from €130 €115 per person Includes: • Prosecco & ½ pint Guinness reception • Tea, Coffee & Scones on arrival • 5 course meal with wine • Evening food • Complimentary Sheen Suite on the night of the wedding • Resident Pianist for the arrival reception • 2 complimentary rooms for the wedding night for guests of your choice • Floral arrangements and candelabras

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

Venues

Leading Wedding

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 weddings up to 40 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

Tulfarris Tulfarris Hotel & Golf Resort is the perfect marriage of elegance and beauty, providing everything you need for a magical wedding day. The stunning Blessington Lakes, secluded beaches and captivating woodlands are the perfect backdrop for your special photographs. Whether it’s an intimate affair for 20 or a lavish occasion with 250 guests this 4 star resort is the ultimate wedding and civil ceremony destination.

Our enchanting Manor House provides the perfect beauty spot to spend your first night as husband and wife.

All of the lavish suites command stunning views across the beautiful lakes or up to the Wicklow Mountains, giving you the ultimate Lord and Lady of the Manor experience. Our main hotel comprises 60 superbly appointed deluxe rooms overlooking our 18 hole championship golf course and our selection of restaurants and bars provide unlimited options for your day-after party.

Ideally located just an hour from Dublin and with all inclusive packages, this is an opportunity not to be missed to start planning your dream wedding.

Tel : 045-867 600. www.tulfarrishotel.com, info@tulfarris.com

Waterford Castle Hotel & Golf Resort Imagine having the most special of days on a private island in a castle that’s exclusively yours for your wedding day.

Ireland’s only island castle is set on an enchanted 310-acre private island. This magical wedding destination is surrounded by the River Suir and accessed by private car. Waterford Castle Hotel offers the very best of Irish hospitality and luxury in the most beautiful surroundings imaginable. Dining at Waterford Castle provides an opportunity to taste the best of traditional and contemporary Irish cuisine.

The award winning culinary team’s create artisan food for your magical day. The wedding coordinators attention to detail, commitment and professionalism will make wedding dreams a reality.

Irish Hotel Awards 2018 - Hotel of the Year - Luxury Hotel of the Year - Fine Dining Hotel of the Year - Castle Hotel of the Year Waterford Castle Hotel & Golf Resort, The Island, Waterford. t. +353 (0) 51 878 203 w. www.waterfordcastleresort.com e. weddings@waterfordcastleresort.com

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

Our team are absolute experts in perfecting every detail. The resort comprises the stunning 18th century manor house and is complimented by a luxury 4 star hotel. We can host weddings for both small and large numbers, the maximum capacity being 250 guests for dinner.

Contact our dedicated wedding team to arrange a tour of our beautiful grounds and banquet rooms.

Tulfarris Hotel & Golf Resort 00353 (0) 45 867 600 • weddings@tulfarris.com www.tulfarrisweddings.com

Castle Bridal Photoshoot in Dunboyne Castle Hotel Photography by Thomas Sunderland Photography

Dress by White Designer Studio Flowerhill, Navan, Co. Meath, Tel: 085-278 8038 Website: www.whitedesignerstudio.ie

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Location: Dunboyne Castle Hotel & Spa Dunboyne, Co. Meath Tel. +353 1 801 3500 Web. dunboynecastlehotel.com

With a sweeping tree lined approach, the Dunboyne Castle Hotel &Spa stands majestically over its 21 acre demesne of mature formal gardens, making any arrival an unforgettable one.

The magnificent landscaped gardens & historic architecture at Dunboyne Castle Hotel & Spa are a wonderful addition to your day. The picturesque grounds with stunning seasonal gardens, trees &shrubs, & featuring design elements such as a gazebo, will prove tob e the ideal location for your timeless wedding photographs.

With such an idyllic setting, Dunboyne Castle Hotel & Spa offers a magnificent backdrop against which to set an exclusive reception.

Photography by:

Thomas Sunderland Castle Street, Carlow. www.thomassunderland.ie +353 59 914 2278

Makeup by: Charlene Campbell Trimgate Street, Navan Co. Meath, charlene@charlenecmakeup.ie 0868738787 http://www.charlenecmakeup.ie

Hair by: Sinead Gaffney @ The Hair Mob Phone: +353 (0)86 384 5555 Email: sinead@hairmob.ie

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Dress by White Designer Studio Flowerhill, Navan, Co. Meath, Tel: 085-278 8038 Website: www.whitedesignerstudio.ie

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Dress by White Designer Studio 116 I IWD Bridal I Dunboyne Castle

Flowerhill, Navan, Co. Meath, Tel: 085-278 8038 Website: www.whitedesignerstudio.ie

Dress by The Bridal Lounge Austin Friar St., Mullingar, Co. Westmeath 044 9335298 www.thebridallounge.ie

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Dress by White Designer Studio Flowerhill, Navan, Co. Meath, Tel: 085-278 8038 Website: www.whitedesignerstudio.ie

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Dress by Tamen Michael 45 Fashion City, Ballymount, Dublin 24 Tel: +353(0)1 429 5052 Email: info@tamemmichael.com Web: www.tamemmichael.com

120 I IWD Bridal I Dunboyne Castle

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122 I IWD Bridal I Dunboyne Castle

Dress by Tamen Michael 45 Fashion City, Ballymount, Dublin 24 Tel: +353(0)1 429 5052 Email: info@tamemmichael.com Web: www.tamemmichael.com

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EXPERIENCE

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

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

www.dunboynecastlehotel.com

The Website for Wedding Dresses Our Website has the latest wedding dresses from the top Irish and international wedding dress designers

www.IrishWeddingDiary.ie Wedding Dresses I IWD Feature I 125

Sorella Vita’s Latest Collections

Ready for your next adventure with Sorella Vita’s latest collection?

Welcome to your first destination! Get ready for exotic shades that take natural beauty to the next level — paired with stunning lace-up backs, luxe trim highlights, and hints of sheerness for every bold and beautiful bridesmaid.

These all-natural shades and bold new design elements are everything 2020 bridal parties are craving for their upcoming journey to the aisle and beyond!

Warm and Captivating: Sangria Soft and naturally radiant, this understated shade offers a rustic yet elevated approach to any modern theme. With decadent ruching, stunning laceup backs, and luxe double-banded waist features, there’s even more to love with these effortless chiffon silhouettes. Coordinate with desert rose for the perfect floral touch throughout your desertinspired colour palette!

126 I IWD Feature I Bridesmaids’ Dresses

Lush Greens (and an Ocean Breeze): Eucalyptus Lively yet serene, this balanced herbal hue blends harmoniously with an array of natural colour schemes, like sage or sea glass, bringing fresh signs of life to a spring or autumnal palette. Captured perfectly in breezy chiffon fabrics for a light, effortless feel, bridesmaids will practically float down the aisle and all the way to the dance floor!

Daring Details Talk about sheer confidence! High halter necklines are both gorgeous and universally flattering, while sheer mesh details and lace-up backs add an extra-modern flair to these designs. And with totally unique, eyecatching velvet trims that draw in the waist, these details dare to be different in all the right ways!

From bachelorette parties in the mountains to seaside ceremonies and everywhere in between, adventure is just around the corner with the latest collection from Sorella Vita!

With a seemingly endless variety of shades, necklines, silhouettes, and fabrics, brides and their maids alike will adore these oneof-a-kind looks for that once-in-a-lifetime

To fin da Sorell a Vita stocki st nea r yo www. sorella u visit vita.co m

day, wherever their wedding day takes them. ___________________________

Bridesmaids’ Dresses I IWD Feature I 127

Mother of the

BRIDE And occAsionweAr

Outfit by Carla Ruiz

Outfit by Fely Campo

Outfit Sonia Peña

Outfit Veni Infantino

Outfit by Luis Civit Outfit Veni Infantino Outfit by Fely Campo

128 I IWD Feature I Mother of the Bride

Irish Wedding Diary Our Website has Everything you need to plan your wedding in Ireland

T o Ta

l ly

R

es

News

po

nsive

Suppliers

Dresses

We’ll keep you updated on the wedding related

You’ll find the top wedding suppliers in Ireland.

If it’s Wedding Dresses you’re after you won’t be

news be it the latest collection of Wedding Dress-

We’ve divided the wedding suppliers you’ll need

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We have the latest collections from the top

available in Bridal Shops in Ireland, the latest

the bride needs to look and feel perfect on her

international designers all of whom have stockists

offers from the best Wedding Venues in Ireland or

wedding day. For the Event is everything else

in Ireland. We also have the best of Irish wedding

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day just perfect.

day including the all important honeymoon.

Irish Wedding Diary.ie.

www.IrishWeddingDiary.ie Weddings I IWD Feature I 129

Mother of the

BRIDE And occAsionweAr

Outfit by Rosa Clara

Outfit Sonia Peña Outfit by Carla Ruiz Outfit by Fely Campo

Outfit Veni Infantino Outfit by Carla Ruiz

Outfit by Luis Civit

130 I IWD Feature I Mother of the Bride

© - ERIC MOLIMARD PHOTOGRAPHY

Your Perfect Wedding Venue Set spectacular views views across acrossshimmering shimmeringLough LoughCorrib, Corrib, Setininthe thebeautiful beautiful Ashford Estate with spectacular it’s TheLodge Lodge at atAshford Ashford Castle Castle it’s hard hard to to imagine imagine aa more moreromantic romanticsetting setting for for your your special special day. day. The isis available use. available for for both both exclusive exclusive and and non-exclusive non-exclusive use.

Wecan canaccommodate accommodatewedding wedding parties parties with with up up to to 180 190 guests guests and and have We have 64 64 elegant elegantbedrooms bedrooms andsuites suites for foryou you and andyour yourguests, guests, with with additional and additional bedrooms bedrooms available available at atAshford AshfordCastle.

Castle. all enquiries please contact: claire@thelodgeac.com For For all enquiries please contact: bmccartney@thelodgeac.com Cong, County Mayo, Ireland T: +353 94 954 5400 www.thelodgeac.com

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Plan the Perfect Honeymoon With Hayes & Jarvis

H

ayes & Jarvis are the ultimate experts when it comes to booking your dream honeymoon. Renowned for their fantastic service, attention to detail, and expertise, every aspect is covered! From flights to accommodation or even resort excursions, they can arrange it all!

Your honeymoon is one of the most exciting and special holidays you’ll ever take, so it’s worth taking the time to plan the perfect escape for you and your partner. Mexico is a hugely desirable destination for luxury getaways, and it’s no wonder! Boasting miles of Caribbean coastline with crystal clear jade-green waters, white sands, and resplendent sunshine, Mexico is, without doubt, a honeymooner’s paradise.

Cancun With beautiful beaches, buzzing nightlife, unforgettable cultural events, and incredible ancient sites, it’s no wonder that Cancun is a world-class honeymoon destination. Whether you enjoy the freedom of days spent on white sandy beaches, the adrenaline rush of the resort’s water sports, or the liveliness of the Cancun nightlife, there is something for everyone. Visit one of the exclusive night venues like Coco Bongos or Mandala, where you can enjoy live music and performances while sipping on delicious cocktails. Pamper yourself at one of Cancun’s luxurious hotels or spas, enjoy a round of golf at one of the many stunning golf courses that offer state-of-the-art facilities, or take a day trip to take in some of the intriguing Mayan history. With so much to offer, it’s no great secret why Cancun is one of Mexico’s top honeymoon destinations.

132 I IWD Feature I Travel

run daily and offer visitors the chance to visit

Riviera Maya

idyllic Mexican locations while experiencing the

The Riviera Maya is located just an hour south of Cancun, and this stretch of stunning

wildlife that inhabits them. Don’t forget your camera!

coastline offers honeymooners the ultimate luxury

retreat

after

the

myriad

nuptial

celebrations. Lounge on white sandy beaches, swim in the jade-green Caribbean waters, and soak up all the all-inclusive luxury resorts have to offer. Sample gourmet international cuisine or try some traditional Mexican fare, or if you like to get out and about, you’ll love the scenic Mayan ruins and fun-filled underground cenotes dotted along the region.

The Riviera Maya is an enchanting location that also offers you the opportunity to experience the wonders of nature. Take a trip to Akumal where you can snorkel along the coral reef and swim with turtles and tropical fish – a oncein-a-lifetime experience that will stay with you forever. Get up close and personal with these beautiful creatures by joining a tour group run by specially trained animal experts. These tours

Beaches & Cenotes The Riviera Maya and Cancun boast some of the best-rated beaches in the world. It’s a beachlover’s paradise with miles of white sand, balmy

Ancient Mayan Historical Tulum, located just south of Cancun on the Riviera Maya, is an excellent place to visit some of the best-preserved ancient Mayan ruins in the world. Located on a dramatic cliff-face above the bright blue waters of the Caribbean, its highlights include the Temple of the Frescoes and a series of underground caverns. You also won’t want to miss Chichén Itzá with its famous pyramids, platforms, and temples. Located in the heart of the jungle, this fascinating Mayan site is dominated by a large central pyramid called El Castillo, which has been named one of the 7 New Wonders of the World. Immerse yourself in Mayan culture at this awe-inspiring site and be captivated by the outstanding views of the surrounding areas.

breezes, and turquoise surf. Water activities here are, quite simply, too good to pass up!

You can enjoy diving and snorkelling along the Great Mayan Coral Reef, the second-largest coral reef in the world. Alternatively, escape for a romantic swim in one of the region’s spectacular underground cenotes. These secret natural turquoise swimming pools are dotted along the Riviera Maya. The underground cave experience is ethereal – swimming in pure, mineral-rich waters in magical caves, you can really feel lost in another time.

Add On Add On Mexico is a fantastic option but to make that honeymoon even more jaw-dropping, why not add on Las Vegas or New York? Hayes & Jarvis can tailor any honeymoon requests!

For more information and to book an appointment with one of our destination specialists call 01 4331052 or visit the Hayes & Jarvis store on Exchequer Street, Dublin 2.

Travel I IWD Feature I 133

WEDDINGTRAVEL

Stay Cool in The French Sun

HONEYMOONS & WEDDINGS ABROAD

What could be cooler than sitting with your loved one next to the swimming pool where a night-time cinema offers a screening of a classic romantic movie in a unique setting between the sky and endless horizon.

You’ll get just that at Le Vieux Castillon, an exceptional fourstar hotel with a modern feel, at the heart of the village of Castillon-du-Gard in the south of France, reflecting its history from the Middle Ages and overlooking the Pont du Gard. An authentic building made of local, warm stone throws open its doors to you in a unique setting where serenity is key.

With enchanting views, intense sun, and singing cicadas and elytras, Le Vieux Castillon is a hidden local gem, unspoilt for the enjoyment of its guests. This is a classic experience that creates a feeling of fullness and wellness. Whether you’re looking for an exclusive venue for your wedding or a hideaway honeymoon, Le Vieux Castillon has it all. www.vieuxcastillon.com

The Elephant Bar in the Raffles Hotel There are hotel bars, and there are hotel bars. And then there’s The Elephant Bar, the number one must-snap on the agenda of any Instagrammer or visitor to the Cambodian capital of Phnom Penh. No place oozes elegance, nostalgia, and panache like the bar in Raffles Hotel Le Royal.

Wicker chairs and leather sofas bask behind high French windows and arched colonnades in a true colonial style. Built in 1929 as the east wing of Hotel Le Royal, this room has long hosted the rich and the royal, the jokers and knaves. You get the impression that if this bar could talk, oh what tales it might tell!

As The Elephant Bar’s keepers juggle behind the sturdy oak bar, you can almost catch a passing glimpse of Charlie Chaplin and his entourage, who frolicked here in 1936, or the shadow of Somerset Maugham, pensively pacing the squeaky panelled floor.

But perhaps the most myth-inspiring of all visitors was Jacqueline Kennedy, who visited Cambodia in 1967 at the invitation of King Sihanouk, and in whose honour a signature cocktail was created – the Femme Fatale – a concoction of Champagne, cognac, and creme fraise.

Legend has it that a wine glass still visible in a display case just behind The Elephant Bar was the glass Kennedy drank from. Check out that smudge of pink lipstick left behind on the rim, or so the story goes, by the former US First Lady.

A night of Champagne and cocktails at The Elephant Bar might ultimately cost a pretty penny.

But then again, they do run a half-price happy hour every evening from 4pm until 9pm, so redemption may be within sight.

Le Royal commemorates its 90th anniversary this year. So if you just happen to be in Phnom Penh, surely you can find at least one sly reason to celebrate in style at The Elephant Bar?

134 I IWD Travel I Honeymoons

www.raffles.com/phnom-penh/dining/elephant-bar/

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WEDDINGTRAVEL HONEYMOONS & WEDDINGS ABROAD Compiled by Alex Joyce

Slow Slow Food in Bali Swim with the Fishes

While many people complain about slow service in restaurants, nobody complains about the

slow food in Chedi Club Tanah Gajah Ubud in Bali. The slow-food movement has crawled

Anantara Kihavah Maldives Villas, located in Baa Atoll, a UNESCO

almost to a standstill in the lush uplands of Bali where the Chedi Club Tanah Gajah Ubud is

Biosphere Reserve, offers guests the chance to get up close and

now plating lunch and dinner fare that comes largely from the grounds of the resort.

personal with reef manta rays at the world’s largest natural manta

While farm-to-table movements are on the rise around the world, Chef Khairudin ‘Dean’ Nor

feeding region in Hanifaru Bay in Baa Atoll from June to November.

thought he might do the movement one better by cutting out the costs of transportation

Guests have the rare opportunity to snorkel or free dive with these

almost entirely. Most of the club’s ingredients are harvested within 100 metres of the table

gentle giants at the protected site of Hanifaru Bay, which attracts

Dean sets; the catfish are caught from a pond behind the garden, the yams grow behind a

hundreds of mantas.

villa, and the cinnamon was ground from the bark of the tree by the pool.

With a wingspan of up to 4 metres, the reef manta rays congregate

Dean explains the story behind each plant, its properties, how it grows, what it’s used for,

at Hanifaru Bay during the southwest monsoon season and, with

when to harvest, and other little-known oddities (e.g. you can eat the flower of starfruit).

optimum wind and tide conditions, enter a shallow cul-de-sac in the

‘Don’t be surprised if Chef Dean picks edible weeds and they end up on your plate later’, said

reef to feed on microscopic plankton.

one guest on a beta test of the experience.

Swimming alongside whale sharks is another amazing bucket-list

Lunch costs US $125+ per couple and dinner US $200+, including a garden tour and a

experience that guests of Anantara Kihavah may be lucky enough

3-course lunch or a 5-course dinner with a pre-dinner cocktail and farewell gift. The farm-to-

to experience. Whale sharks also favour the Baa Atoll archipelago

table package can accommodate a maximum of 6 people.

during manta season, but they are rarely sighted.

www.ghmhotels.com/en/tanah-gajah/

www.anantara.com/en/kihavah-maldives.

Wild & Wonderful Honeymoons

If it’s action and exercise you’re after surrounded by spectacular scenery, British Columbia in Canada, with its vast national parks and mountain ranges, is hard to beat.

The ten-day Whales, Bears & Vancouver Island tour combines excitement and serenity in perfect balance, teaming a city stop with wildlife, forest, lakes and the mighty Pacific.

Spend a morning powerboating across the waves in search of orcas, minke and grey whales. Then in the afternoon enjoy Butchart Gardens in Victoria, spanning 55 acres and home to 900 varieties of bedding plants.

If you want to get even more active, you can hike and kayak, looking out along the way for seals, sea lions, puffins and Vancouver Island wolves.

The tour’s outdoor theme continues as you visit Campbell River, a port known as the “salmon capital of the world”, and Knight Inlet, in the heart of the Great Bear Rainforest, where surrounded by snow-capped mountains and tree-lined shores, you might see grizzly bears helping themselves to wild fish. www.travelbag.co.uk/holidays/canada

136 I IWD Travel I Honeymoons

Your wedding day is perhaps the most significant day of your life. You want everything to be perfect, and when you book your reception and Hilton Malta, we will make sure your day is truly unforgettable. You can also hold your civil ceremony at our beautiful venue. We have everything to make your big day even more special.

For additional information visit www.malta.hilton.com

Terms & Conditions apply.

WEDDINGTRAVEL HONEYMOONS & WEDDINGS ABROAD Compiled by Alex Joyce

Lovers Embrace

The all-inclusive spa resort, Fusion Resort Phu Quoc, has just launched the ‘Lovers Embrace’, an intimate beach wedding package on a tropical island.

Couples who wish to say ‘I do’ on the resort’s white sand beach will be able to walk the aisle through a bamboo archway and say their vows under a wedding arch dressed in white silk and fresh flowers. All that’s needed for the service is provided including a wedding guestbook, boutonnieres, bouquets and a welcome drink for guests before the vows. A wedding gala dinner is also included with set menus of the bride and groom’s choice, 2 hours of live music, and 2 hours of free-flowing beverages including beer and wine.

The couple (and their guests) can relax pre- and post-ceremony at Fusion’s Maia Spa and Wellness Facility, with at least 2 therapies per day included in the room rate. Massages, wraps and facials, along with wellness activities like yoga, are on offer here. Each villa also has its own private plunge pool for you to unwind.

Package rates start at $3,850 for 10 people and from $7,950 for 50 people, exclusive of the nightly room rate. fusionresorts.com/fusionresortphuquoc

Prague

Vows in Venice AMAN VENICE, Italy Housed in a 16th-century palazzo on the Grand Canal, Aman Venice boasts lavish interiors and two private gardens, rare

Prague Honeymoon

features in this iconic floating city.

In a city of grand romantic gestures, Aman Venice caters to small and large occasions from weddings to private celebrations.

Guests are housed in 24 impeccably appointed rooms and suites.

Exquisite cuisine is a signature of the hotel, with Michelinstarred Chef Davide Oldani available to provide personalised menus for private dinners or grand banquets. From the gracious

If you’re looking for a honeymoon in a European capital city but think London,

Piano Nobile and its unrivalled views of the Grand Canal, to

Paris and Rome might be a little expensive, take a look at Prague. This is

elegant dining rooms and salons with historic architectural details,

one of the most beautiful cities in Europe with charming cobbled streets, old

Aman Venice provides period elegance for the most sophisticated

castles, beautiful churches and old town squares that are a delight to behold.

and memorable of event

Add to that café culture to rival Paris, a vibrant pub and club scene to match

www.aman.com

Amsterdam, plus theatres and opera to rival Rome and you’ll find everything a young couple could ask for in a city honeymoon destination.

Founded in the 9th Century Prague has a long and fascinating history which unfolds on the streets and in the monuments but it’s also a modern European capital city and has quickly thrown off the dull flavour of Soviet occupation.

You’ll find among the old ruins a modern and vibrant city with a well educated, young and exciting population who know how to have a good time.

While a night on the town with a trip to the opera in many other European cities would need a small mortgage, in Prague you’ll be pleasantly surprised with your bank balance after a honeymoon here.

138 I IWD Travel I Honeymoons

s t or s e R c i s s a Cl Mauritius 5* eymoons Hon

9 nights All Inclusive from

€2299pp Heritage Awali Golf & Spa The magic of the place lies within the perfect balance of affordable luxury, simplicity and friendliness for a stress-free holiday! Ideal for Honeymooners, Heritage Awali stands out for its exceptional range of activities and facilities tailored for the enjoyment of your holiday.

Relish in a range of unique delights for you to live out unforgettable experiences on the island of Mauritius.

Voted Best All Inclusive 5* hotel in Mauritius, including Champagne and premium imported alcoholic brands • Access to 18 hole championship golf courses, Heritage Golf Club • Spacious and comfortable rooms offering luxuriant tropical garden or sea views • 1 complimentary spa treatment at the Seven Colours Spa per stay for both adults and kids • On site nature reserve • A plethora of nautical and land based activities • Access to 5 restaurants including the famous C Beach Club • 3 swimming pools including an adults only pool • Access to the only Footgolf course on the island • Disabled friendly resort • Privileged access to some of the facilities of Heritage Bel Ombre • Heated pool from May to September Premium All Inclusive is €90pppd.

Prices based on 2 sharing for 9 nights on All Inclusive basis, for travel June 2020, including flights, taxes and transfers.

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!

WEDDINGTRAVEL HONEYMOONS & WEDDINGS ABROAD Compiled by

St Petersburg

Alex Joyce

Tuscan Wedding

Where is more a more romantic wedding venue than Italy and where in Italy is as beautiful at Tuscany? There is something about the light and the air in Tuscany that puts a soft romantic filter on the rolling hills, pristine vineyards and proud cypress trees under the clear blue sky.

Castle Maga is a former residence of the Grand Duke of Tuscany, Leopold II, and gives visitors a truly regal experience. It’s situated between the old walled city of Lucca, home to Puccini, and the wonderful city of Siena, the centre of which has been designated a UNESCO world heritage site.

The secluded Castle dates back to the 16th century and is an impressive ivy covered exterior which gives way to a beautifully preserved building, with many original features and antique furnishings all hidden behind a secluded tree lined drive. With 11 bedrooms, a large dining room and professional kitchen you’ll easily cater for an intimate wedding here.

If your budget doesn’t quite stretch to the €12,000 a week to rent Castle Mago, you’ll find many more romantic villas in Tuscany where your big day will be just as special.

While a Russian honeymoon might not be high on most people’s lists take a moment to consider it. Russia is the largest country in the world and is as diverse as many continents and is a country of extremes. St Petersburg is regarded as the most romantic city in Russia so it’s no wonder it’s popular with honeymooners.

With its beautiful cathedrals, relaxing riverside views, and plenty of cosy restaurants, it’s a city made for romantics. Take a ride in a horse drawn carriage down the broad avenues and marvel at the palatial architecture; Hop into a hot air balloon and fly over the golden domes and spires and watch the city unfold below or climb aboard a riverboat and cruise up the river and watch life unfold in the many waterfront bars and restaurants. St Petersburg is a perfect if unexpected honeymoon destination that you’ll love for its cultural history, its beauty and its unending charm.

Ballooning Over Bagan

Your adventure starts with a short journey in one of our romantic converted vintage buses to one of our

dedicated launch sites. The growing light reveals our teams busy at work preparing your balloon against a backdrop of ancient temples shrouded in mist. There is time for tea, coffee, and refreshments before the all-important safety briefing. With the balloons now standing upright, it is time to climb on board, and our helpful crew are on hand to assist you into the basket. The balloon is guided by gentle winds not exceeding 15 mph, allowing passengers a serene and peaceful bird’s-eye view of ancient temples drifting by. Using his skill and years of flight experience in Bagan, the pilot can guide the balloon to a gentle landing where our friendly and experienced crew will be waiting for you with fruit, fresh pastries and a glass or 2 of sparkling wine to complete the post-flight celebration.

140 I IWD Travel I Honeymoons

Sign up to TRAILFINDERS

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

When only award-winning travel will do 5 COCO BODU HITHI MALDIVES

5 + THE OBEROI MAURITIUS

5 SIX SENSES SAMUI THAILAND

10 NIGHTS FROM €2,699

10 NIGHTS FROM €3,199

10 NIGHTS FROM €3,899

SAVING OVER €1,550 Includes flights, speedboat transfers, daily breakfast & a 50% early booking room discount

SAVING OVER €2,150 Includes flights, private transfers, daily breakfast, a honeymoon booking discount & a free bottle of wine on arrival

SAVING OVER €1,100 Includes flights, private transfers, private pool villa, daily breakfast, an early booking discount & a FREE dinner at ‘Dining on the Rocks’

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

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

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

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

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

Prices are per person ‘from’ prices based on double share, subject to availability & valid for selected May & June 2020 departures.

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

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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. Trailfinders 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.

142 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 143

Irish Wedding Diary Magazine Digital Edition Your favourite wedding magazine is now available for downloading to your phone and tablet so you can now carry the magazine with you everywhere. You will also be able to view it on your laptop and desktop computers

le Singue Iss

9

â‚Ź2.9

ly Year ption cri Subs

7.99

144 I IWD Feature I Technology

The Wedding of

Kerri & Sean

Who were married in Malta with Sarah Young Wedding Planners on 3rd August 2019

146 I IWD Feature I Weddings Abroad

Sean and I met at a benefit night through a mutual friend of ours in June 2006. I convinced him his raffle ticket number had been called out, and he made his way on stage to claim his prize! Unfortunately, it was the peach strip, not the pink strip, that was called out!

We didn’t cross paths again until early August

aware of how I felt, and he felt the same. We

at a birthday party of our mutual friends. Sean

went on holiday to New York in October 2017,

was very popular at the time and seemed to

and I fully expected him to pop the question!

have his pick of the ladies. I told Sean I wasn’t

Every tourist location we visited I was like, ‘OK

interested. In October of the same year, Sean

this is it!’, but it never happened!

sent a text and asked me out on a date. I agreed and the rest, as they say, is history!

It wasn’t until the following April in our

That was thirteen years ago this October.

Powerscourt hotel room that I walked in to find

We both agreed it would be best to leave the wedding until 2020. Later that week we both came home and were discussing things, and Sean said he’d much prefer if it was 2019 as 2020 is too long to wait. I was in favour of eloping, but Sean loves a party, so it was agreed we would have a destination wedding.

Malta has long been one of my favourite countries, and Sean suggested why not get married there?

Sean down on one knee. It was the biggest We have lived together for nine years, and our

surprise ever. We had to go for dinner, and

We began to research wedding planners in

family and friends would joke about buying a

all we wanted to do was tell our family and

Malta, and this is when we came across the

hat for our big day. We always spoke about

friends! I remember we told the waiter, and his

amazing Sarah Young and her team. We

getting married, but we never felt the pressure

response was, ‘Oh thank goodness, I thought

explained to Sarah that we only wanted a small

to do it. However, after hitting thirty and having

this was a really bad date as you are both on

wedding. Sarah sent on portfolios of different

bought our house three years previously, I felt

your phones!’

wedding venues in Malta that she and her

it was time to take the next step. I made Sean

team recommend to couples. This is when

Weddings Abroad I IWD Feature I 147

we first saw a beautiful country yard manor.

rolled into one. I loved my wedding dress and

It was everything we wanted. It was a mix of

think I always will. It was one of the first dresses

old and new Malta. The old house holds on to

I tried on in La Bella Sposa, Swords. Sean

its charming character and leads into a new

bought his suit and those of the groomsmen

marquee. The gardens out the back were the

in Penthouse Liffey Valley. Everything went so

perfect setting for people to relax with a drink

smoothly for us both.

after the ceremony. Just a short walk away is the small but beautiful church of San Pawl Tat-

Sean and I both have busy careers, but Sarah

Targa. This is where we would be married.

and Michelle ensured that all our emails and requests were dealt with, and nothing was too

Both Sean and I wanted to keep things very simple.

much hassle. I cannot speak highly enough of them. There was a stage when the emails were constant, but when we flew to Malta on the 30th July, four days before our wedding, they had everything organised. So, all the emailing was necessary. I did not feel one bit stressed.

Sarah made sure we were both collected and brought to the Head of the Church and the marriage registry in Valletta to sign our papers.

We went to the venue and were given a run through of how the day would unfold. Finally, we met the priest, Fr Tony Aguis, who was so lovely. The only thing left to do was to wait for

Finally, Saturday 3rd August 2019 arrived. I know couples say it was the best day of their lives, but now I truly know what they mean.

We had such an unbelievable time. The hair and make-up artists were the best and helped me to relax. We arranged transport for our guests to and from the village. After our wedding ceremony, we all walked the short walk to the villa (the whole one minute!). Our guests were able to relax in the gardens, while a three-piece band serenaded them, and they were treated to a variety of canapes. Dinner followed the speeches, and our guests said the food was out of this world.

All the time, the Sarah Young events team were checking all was going to plan.

our guests to arrive.

The band played through dinner until 10:30pm, We based ourselves and our guests in St Julians, as this is a lively resort with plenty to My best friend was due to have her baby four days after our wedding, so, unfortunately, she could not travel. Sean had two groomsmen; his best man was his best friend, and my brother was the groomsman. My future sister-in-law had two jobs, maid of honour and bridesmaid,

148 I IWD Feature I Weddings Abroad

do for people of all ages. The village of Naxxar, where we would be married, was only 20 minutes away. The number of guests attending

followed by the DJ, and everyone danced the night away until the early hours! Our guests have said it was one of the best weddings they were ever at from start to finish, and I think Sean and I would have to agree with them!

our wedding ended up at 73. Some said the opportunity to go to Malta for our wedding was too good to pass.

We have made sure to have something to look forward to and will be spending this Christmas in Cancun for our honeymoon!

★★

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

Searching for the Perfect Place to Jet Off to on Honeymoon?

TUI Are Here To Help!

S

earching for the perfect location for your honeymoon can be a daunting task. With so many beautiful destinations to choose from, it can be difficult to narrow down your options. You obviously want your first holiday as a married couple to be as memorable and enjoyable as possible.

Whether you’re looking to enjoy a luxurious beach getaway or a more culturallyoriented trip discovering world-class cuisine and picture-perfect landscapes, TUI have a destination to match your every desire.

Greece

Ibiza

Corfu

Maldives

150 I IWD Feature I Weddings Abroad

Maldives Few destinations can match the romance and

in- hand along beautiful beaches, and enjoying

once there, enjoy the epitome of luxury. There

breath-taking beauty of the Maldives. Famous

exquisite fresh cuisine.

are two fantastic infinity pools to relax in, five different restaurants, and luxury water villas in

for its majestic azure waters and crystal white sandy beaches, this unique destination has

Morning beachside massages and champagne

which to stay. The rooms are sensational, with

been a firm favourite among honeymooners

canapés at sunset are just some of the luxury

panoramic ocean views and luxury four-poster

for decades. Spend your days lazing by the

touches at the Olhuveli Beach & Spa Resort.

beds as standard.

pool sipping tropical cocktails, walking hand-

You’ll arrive at the resort in a speedboat, and

Lyttos Beach, Greece

Situated in the Heraklion region in Crete,

caught local seafood and a caramel-coloured

ca Caldera Palace. Everything about this hotel

Lyttos Beach is great for couples seeking a

sandy beach. You’ll even be able to discover

is luxurious, from its gourmet style dining to

shorter haul honeymoon destination. Benefit-

secret beaches where you and your partner

its indulgent spa facilities. It has everything

ting from a laid-back ambience, it has long

can benefit from some much-needed alone

you might need on-site, including six pools,

been a firm favourite with couples seeking

time.

seven restaurants, and an extensive range of

a romantic escape. You can expect freshly

Stay at the beautiful Sensatori Resort Atlanti-

available activities.

Weddings Abroad I IWD Feature I 151

Ermones, Corfu Located on the northwest coast of Corfu, Ermones is another short-haul honeymoon destination to consider. This quiet retreat offers couples a peaceful, lazy honeymoon experience. Watch the sunset or explore the waters of beautiful Ermones Bay. Choose to stay at the adults-only TUI Sensimar Atlantica Grand Mediterraneo Resort & Spa. Set in a secluded, cliff-top location, the resort offers remarkable views across the ocean. The on-site restaurant also overlooks the bay, and serves up divine local cuisine.

Cala Tarida, Ibiza Ibiza may not be the first destination that comes to mind when you’re looking for honeymoon destinations. However, the Cala Tarida part of the island is renowned for its laid-back, luxury ambience. It benefits from a significant stretch of sand, ideally sheltered by hills, allowing you to enjoy romantic strolls along the beach.

The Sensatori Resort Ibiza is perfect for couples.

Overlooking the beach, the resort boasts some fantastic facilities such as a rooftop bar, swimup rooms, and fantastic dining options. Imagine looking out over the sea, sipping cocktails, and watching the sun set from the rooftop bar.

The bells have finished ringing, the crowds have departed, and now it’s time to jet off with your other half on your dream honeymoon. From the stilted water villas of the Maldives to the picture-perfect beaches in Greece, TUI have packages to suit everyone. Whether you are looking for the utmost luxury with a swim-up room, or a more budget friendly getaway where you can walk hand-in-hand and watch the sunset, TUI will help you choose the perfect honeymoon destination!

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

152 I IWD Feature I Weddings Abroad

THE MOMENT WHEN HAPPY EVER AFTER BEGINS

After all the excitement of planning your wedding, you deserve some us-time on your dream honeymoon.

From the stilted water villas in the Maldives to the picture-perfect beaches in Greece, we will help you choose the perfect honeymoon destination for you!

Call 1850 929 141 | tuiholidays.ie | 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.

A Little Italian Treasure

By Alex Joyce

Boutique Hotel Leone, a beautiful boutique hotel in a stunning off-track hilltop town

L

e Marche is an area as captivating as any you will find in Italy, and is one of the very few places that has escaped mass tourism, despite its natural beauty. The Italians describe it as, ‘all of Italy in one region’, with its medieval hilltop towns full of art and culture, amazing coastline with hidden beaches, patchwork-quilt countryside, stunning mountain ranges within three national parks, and a growing number of vineyards.

If you would like to experience the smaller

sandstone townhouses and villas. At the end of

off-track villages, where very little English is

one of these little streets you’ll find a stunning

spoken and tourists are few and far between,

boutique hotel in the town of Montelparo that is

the hilltop town of Montelparo which is a picture

owned and run by an English couple, who have

perfect Italian town complete with narrow,

realised their dream of owning their own little

winding, cobbled pathways between shuttered

slice of heaven in Italy.

154 I IWD Feature I Travel

Boutique Hotel Leone is located in the picturesque hillside town of Montelparo, under half an hour’s drive from the Adriatic coast, in the foothills of the Sibillini Mountains, which offers luxury accommodation and fine dining that includes all the Italian classics but with an international flavour.

The owners, Madelline and Tim, spent three years

painstakingly

restoring

this

historic

palazzo into a beautifully appointed boutique hotel that retains all the authenticity and character of the original building. Each of the eight stunning bedrooms has been individually

styled by Madelline, who has taken inspiration

golden light over the breath-taking landscape

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

from the 5-star hotels she stayed in during her

below. You can also dine here in the evening

town and get a glimpse of real life that you

high-flying banking career in London and the

under the stars and listen to the sounds of the

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

Far East. Everything from the contemporary

locals working and living in the valley below.

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

décor to the luxurious bed linen has been hand-

The quiet and secluded private pool also takes

in the international language of hand signals,

picked to offer guests the ultimate luxurious

in this beautiful view and is a perfect suntrap,

pointing and smiling.

stay.

where you can relax with a good book and a nice cool drink.

Madelline and Tim have had the honour of hosting many weddings since they opened

The Italians describe Le Marche as, ‘all of Italy in one region’ The hotel interior is magnificent with its art deco cocktail bar, the 15th-century brickvaulted restaurant, and the plush Salone,

and they can organise as much or as little of

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

your wedding as you would like them to. The ceremony can be performed in the town square in front of the church steps by the local mayor.

You and your guests can then wind your way though the town, via one of the little bars, back to the hotel where your drinks’ reception would be held on the terrace or in the art deco

where you can relax for afternoon tea or an after-dinner drink. It’s outside, however, where

Another reason to visit this little gem is the

cocktail bar. The wedding banquet can then be

the hotel really wows guests. The panoramic

town itself. A sleepy little town just 25 minutes

served in the 15th-century cellar restaurant or

terrace offers some of the best views in town,

from the coast, it is quintessentially Italian, with

on the terrace as the sun sets, where you can

where you can see the rolling hills and cypress

narrow meandering cobbled lanes climbing to

then dance the night away under the stars.

trees leading across to the Adriatic Sea in the

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

Sounds idyllic, doesn’t it?

distance. Breakfast is served on this terrace,

where you can view the Sibillini mountains to

where you can watch the morning sun cast its

the west and the Adriatic coast to the east. Pop

www.hotelleonemarche.com

Travel I IWD Feature I 155

The Wedding of

Deirdre & Donnacha Who were married in Breaffy House Resort on 15th June 2019

Photography: www.castadivawedding.com

156 I IWD Feature I Real Wedding

D

onnacha and I met through work in May 2015. We have known each other since 2009, and our paths eventually crossed in 2015. We had our first date in Glendalough in June 2015. After spending a whole day walking and talking in Glendalough, we both knew that we had just found something very special.

It was everything I wanted: simple, elegant and timeless. I felt a million dollars as I stood in the shop. My dress was finished off with a veil that my mam picked, also in The Bridal Outlet. I had my sister Siobhan as my maid of

Donnacha proposed to me in January 2018 on a very cold night on top of the Rockefeller Centre in New York City. For once in my life, I was completely taken by surprise. Upon our return from New York, we immediately knew that, as two Dubs, we did not want a Dublin Wedding.

Donnacha and I both love to travel, so leaving Dublin for the weekend fitted right into our travel theme. From the start of our planning we had decided on the West of Ireland. Having attended a friend’s wedding in Breaffy House Resort, Castlebar, Co. Mayo in December 2017, it was an easy decision to pick our reception venue.

Breaffy House Resort offered us everything that we wanted.

The next big decision for me was my wedding dress.

honour, my oldest friend Sarah McLoughlin and

wedding to give our guests the option of a full

I struck lucky with The Bridal Outlet, Baldoyle. I

Doherty, was his best man. This was an easy

weekend away from Dublin. We wanted the

went with my mam and godmother and tried on

decision as they have been friends since they

three-day wedding experience. In March 2018

five dresses and was ready to leave when Paula

were three. This ensured a good speech with

we booked our wedding day at Breaffy House

the shop assistant asked me to try on one last

plenty of stories about Donnacha. Donnacha

Resort. It was the best decision we made in our

dress. This dress was by Margaret Mooreland

also had his younger brother, Diarmuid Crowe,

planning process.

and was called Allie. Yes, this was the dress.

and his two closest friends, Colm Punch and

There were fabulous grounds set on 90 acres, perfect for our pictures, five-star service, beautiful large ball room, wonderful food and amazing staff. We decided on a Saturday

my two best friends from college, Aisling Free and Rebecca Stack. My bridesmaid dresses were bought in Alexander Bridal, Parnell Street in Dublin. Donnacha’s best friend, Cormac

Real Wedding I IWD Feature I 157

Ciaran O’Callaghan. All the boys were dressed

Islandeady, Co. Mayo. We chose this church

from head to toe in Swan Clothing in Finglas.

due to its beautiful location, and it is only 20 minutes from Breaffy House. Upon our return

Our wedding day was nothing short of a

to the hotel we had our photograph’s taken in

fairy tale. I arrived at Breaffy House Resort

the hotel and on the grounds. Our guests were

on Thursday 13th June, and the celebrations

treated to a champagne and beer reception as

started on Friday 14th June when over 250

we mingled.

guests arrived at Breaffy House Resort. We had a family meal on the Friday night. This was the best way to settle our nerves and for our families and friends to meet.

Saturday 15th June was our wedding day, and it was the most amazing day.

A highlight of our day was a visit to The Wine Cellar with our Bridal Party in the hotel.

It was a great way to take a few minutes for ourselves. We then danced the night away with our band, Late Night Radio. The next day

Hair and Makeup started at 8am. Hair was by Siobhan at LS hair Westport and make-up was

by Hayley Coleman. Siobhan is an incredible lady

we continued the celebrations with our family and friends with a BBQ in the hotel, and the celebrations well into the night again.

and hairstylist. My flowers and decor were by Balla Florist, and my cake was Ivory Cakes, both excellent. Our photography and videography were by Castadiva, an Italian company based

I cannot thank all the members of the wedding team at Breaffy House Resort enough, who made our day so very special and memorable.

in Dublin. Arturo, our photographer, captured the spirit of our day just perfectly, and AT&T Chauffeurs in Meath were fab and got us to the church on time. Our church was the beautiful St. Patrick’s Church in the picturesque townland

158 I IWD Feature I Real Wedding

We left Dublin to get a destination wedding, and we had that by having our day in Breaffy House Resort. I never wanted the day to end.

ur w y yo Sho aff ow ok ng Bre t N 108 o B di at or 4 ed d s 4 W oun e Re 4 90 Ar ous 09 H LL

CA

Connaught’s Premier Wedding Destination Venue • Over 50 years Wedding Banqueting Experience • • Picturesque 90 Acre Woodland Estate • • Choose from a host of bespoke WOW Wedding Upgrades (Helicopter Rides, Fireworks, White Dove Release) • • Bespoke Wedding Packages including Diamond and Moet & Chandon Packages • • Indoor & Outdoor Civil Ceremonies • Exclusive Wine Cellar Experiences • • Capacity up to 450+ wedding guests • • Upgrades available to Junior & Executive Suites and Superior Deluxe rooms • • Book your pre & post wedding celebrations (Evening Meals, Private Dining Experiences & BBQ Parties) •

Br

f fy Hou se

ea

Breaffy House Resort | Breaffy | Castlebar | Co. Mayo T: 094 904 4108 E: weddings@breaffyhouseresort.com W: www.breaffyhouseresort.com

Breaffy-House-A4-WEDDING-Advert.indd 1

Re s o r t

03/09/2019 17:54

The Wedding of

Jodi & Jade

Who were married at the Arklow Bay Hotel on 5th June 2019

Photography by: Fox and Quil Photography

160 I IWD Feature I Real Wedding

www.foxandquil.com

J

ade and I share the same religion. We were both born and raised in Jehovah’s Witness families. Jade and her family moved to Ireland from Idaho in 2015. I first saw her at one of our annual assemblies in May 2015, just a few months after her arrival in Ireland.

I nervously approached her to say hello. She muttered something and ran away (she was quite shy). ‘Well, that’s that’, I thought.

Fast forward two years, and at another annual

After surprising Jade with a trip to Paris, we

assembly I saw Jade talking to a friend of mine.

started looking up venues online. We weren’t

I wandered over to say hello to my friend who

wasting any time! The Arklow Bay Hotel was

then introduced me to Jade. We hit it off! We

one of the first venues Jade found, and one of

exchanged numbers and spoke every day after.

the first to respond to us to arrange a viewing.

A few weeks later, I invited her to come and

We visited and loved it.

watch an outdoor film with a few others. It wasn’t exactly a date, but yeah it was.

After meeting a few more times, I ‘officially’ asked Jade out in Farmleigh’s sunken garden in the Phoenix Park.

None of the other venues we visited matched up to the Arklow Bay Hotel in terms of location, price and service.

went wedding dress shopping with her mother and sister, but, in the end, found the dress she loved online.

After nine months spent counting down the days, working like mad things and planning everything, along with our amazing wedding coordinator, Eimear, the big day finally came.

The week prior to it was one of the busiest; both Jade and I had family arrive from abroad for the wedding, so the celebrations started early! The week flew by, and we were so excited. The day before the wedding was a

Honestly, the staff and wedding coordinator were fantastic, and we knew we wanted to

I proposed in the exact same spot 364 days

have our wedding there.

later in front of our families and friends. She was completely unaware of my plan, and the

We quickly got to planning, which Jade did most

surprise went off without a hitch; even the

of, naturally. I did, however, insist on picking

weather was good!

the suits for myself and the groomsmen! Jade

bit different, more stressful. Jade was busy packing and preparing for the wedding. She made the bouquets, altered her own dress and made the seating chart. It was no easy task, but she did everything beautifully. For myself, the day before was one of the longest days of my life, filled with excited anticipation, along with irrational, anxious worries of

Real Wedding I IWD Feature I 161

accidentally crashing my car on the way to

of the guests, both vegan and non-vegan, that

Arklow and having to cancel the wedding! I

the food was amazing. As two vegans with a

could feel the stress leave my body as I took

love for cooking, we really loved the food and

the exit for Arklow, replaced with nothing but

were surprised with the creative ideas the chef

excitement. I arrived at the hotel to my equally

came up with for us.

excited fiancé, and we spent our last engaged evening with family and friends, playing music, laughing, crying and having a drink or two of course.

We can’t say anything bad about the wedding day. Everything was perfect, even the weather!

The staff at the Arklow Bay Hotel were so accommodating; they prepared a fantastic fully vegan menu for us. We’ve been told by many

We can’t thank the hotel enough, not only for the food, but for their amazing staff who really looked after all our guests.

They truly went above and beyond, even dropping some guests home in the early hours of the morning when there were no taxis available. The whole day went by so fast, too fast. We wanted it to last forever!

‘mini honeymoon’ because our initial idea was to go to Japan for our honeymoon, but, in the

162 I IWD Feature I Real Wedding

After the wedding, we went on a mini

end, our funds didn’t allow for it. It’s still very

honeymoon to Lisbon, Portugal, an amazing

much on the to-do list, regardless. One day!

city for vegan food! We enjoyed a week of

In the meantime, we’re just enjoying married

sun, food, drink and unwinding after all the

life. I feel privileged to have met Jade and look

planning, excitement and emotion. We say

forward to spending forever with her.

Unique Wedding Venue

Welcome to the Arklow Bay Hotel, a wonderful destination for your unique wedding day.

Your Wedding day is the most important and memorable day of your life.

At the Arklow Bay Hotel Co. Wicklow, from the moment you step on to our red carpet we promise an experience you will always treasure and we will endeavour to make your day thoroughly unique to you in one of the most professional and adaptable Wicklow wedding Venues.

Dates available for 2020 & 2021 FROM TODAY UNTIL YOUR DAY‌.WE DO. Call Eimear on 0402 26200 or email weddingsandevents@arklowbay.com

www.arklowbay.com

The Wedding of

Camille & Chris

Who were married in Charleville Park Hotel on 8th of April 2019

164 I IWD Feature I Real Wedding

C

am, short for Camille, and I (Chris) met on Dawson Street on the 14th January 2017. I remember she ordered her coffee the same way I like mine, and I was thinking ‘I like this girl’.

From there, conversation flowed, and I mean it flowed; it was so easy and natural. We sat by the fire in 37 Dawson Street and drank our Americano’s, no sugar and no milk.

October, and I planned everything around that weekend. Camille was in Ballymaloe Cookery School in Cork at the time. I intended to travel down on the Friday, and we would stay in Camille’s cottage, which she was living in during her studies. Then, on Saturday, after I had competed, I would surprise her with a stay

From that first date, I knew Cam was something special.

in the Maryborough Hotel, where I would then

After nine months we moved in together, and

I couldn’t compete, but we still went to the

It was getting late, and I offered to walk

not long after that we were talking about

competition as spectators. We then travelled to

Cam home. She said yes, but she needed to

marriage.

the Maryborough, and I had already let slip that

After a while, we noticed the time and were so surprised to notice that two hours plus had passed by. We stood and left the table and our many empty cups behind. We then walked out and through Stephen’s green.

surprise her with a weekend away. I’d propose on the Saturday, and Sunday we would enjoy the day. Those plans were only slightly jostled when I was hit by a car on the 3rd October.

we’d be staying there (we can’t keep secrets

make a stop in the supermarket as she had nothing in her fridge for dinner. I didn’t mind

Everything was moving at a steady pace, and

from each other), but I did surprise her with a

tagging along. I helped carry her shopping to

we were constantly riding the same wave of

deluxe room, which was beautiful. After we had

her apartment, and there we said goodnight.

thought. When the thought of proposing came

a glass of wine from the bottle that was waiting

As we approached her apartment block, she

into my head, I’m sure Cam knew it and felt

for us, we went down to the spa where I had

climbed the first couple of steps to the front

the same, as we would often openly talk about

arranged a couple’s massage. It was fantastic.

door and said, ‘well, I am home’. I passed her

future plans, in detail.

During the massage I had the ring in my pocket.

I was nervous of Cam seeing it, as I kept it in

the shopping bag, and we said good night without a kiss. The first kiss didn’t come until

In 2018, I proposed in the Maryborough

the box. Thankfully, she didn’t notice. I guess

date number three.

hotel in Cork. The plan was that I would be

she wasn’t looking for it. We went briefly into

competing in a fitness competition in late

the relaxation room after the massage, and

Real Wedding I IWD Feature I 165

then we were guided into the thermal suite that I had arranged to be set up for only Cam and myself. Candle lit with flower petals on the floor, champagne in the bucket and our own private area with a pool, I went down on one knee, slowly because of my injuries, which made us both laugh a little, and on the 21st of October I proposed, but before I finished the words Cam had given me her answer, and we were engaged. With her help, I stood up, and we had an amazing night of laughs, dinner and enjoying our time together.

We wanted a small wedding, so when we started to look for a venue, Dublin didn’t suit

No details we requested at the Charleville Park Hotel were an issue. They simply just wanted to please.

our numbers, both guest and budget wise.

Camille is French, but, after talking about it, we said we would have our wedding in Ireland, and, in a few years, we will renew our vows in France. With Dublin off the table we looked elsewhere, and Cork was one of the first places we looked. We went on a road trip and visited close to 20 venues in two days. We both agreed the first place we visited was the place we would marry.

The wedding day itself was nothing less than incredible. I must say a big thank you to the Charleville Park Hotel, who were so professional, friendly and always available throughout the day. It went perfectly, and we were so happy and relaxed on the day. We were almost waiting for something to go wrong, but, thankfully, nothing did. The ceremony was a civil ceremony in the hotel, in a gorgeous room filled with flowers and our close friends

Charleville Park Hotel was our perfect spot.

It was wasn’t too big or outlandish. The staff were incredibly kind, accommodating, professional and they really did make us feel special. Every time we visited them, we were treated extremely well with all our requests adhered to and delivered on the day.

166 I IWD Feature I Real Wedding

and family. Camille had two bridesmaids, and her maid of honour was her childhood friend Pauline. I had one groomsman, my best man, who was my childhood friend Grian. They were all brilliant on the day. We had a fantastic group around us who all made sure we had the best day ever, and they succeeded.

Nearly six months on and guests are telling us how much fun they had and how beautiful the ceremony was, but, truly, just how much fun they had was very important to Camille and myself. We had games during the dinner, which got the French and Irish involved, and the language barrier didn’t get in the way, as we had my groomsman Rob and maid of honour Pauline presenting. We had an illusionist, Shane Black, entertaining the guests during the drinks reception, who blew everyone’s mind.

It was all captured by our photographer, Olga Hogan, who was just a superstar. So kind and talented, she captured some amazing moments, and we couldn’t be happier with our pictures from the day.

We haven’t had our honeymoon yet, but we have had two romantic mini honeymoons to Marseille and Lisbon. We plan to travel to South America for a couple of weeks together in 2020.

Come Visit…. You Might Just Fall In Love You are our VIP, not just on your special day but from your first phone call or email. Your wedding is day filled with happiness & laughter; we are honoured to be a part of your love story!

Your guests will be warmly welcomed by our wedding team and will enjoy the splendour of the award winning Deerpark Suite customised for your special day, with mood lighting, crystal chandeliers, a choice of table centre pieces and linens to compliment your wedding party. The Deerpark’s private bar allows your guests to stay together throughout the wedding celebration.

A unique venue for a civil partnership, ceremony, wedding or blessing our stylish and spacious hotel can customise a package to fulfil your dreams. Catering for weddings of all sizes we pride ourselves on making your day, whether big or small, a day to remember for a lifetime.

Check out Sarah Jane’s Wedding Wednesday Blog on our Social media every week for all the latest trends & wedding tips!

Would you like to come view our beautiful wedding setting? Call or email Sarah Jane to arrange a show around at a time that suits you!

Charleville Park Hotel & Leisure Club, Limerick Rd, Rathgoggan North, Charleville, Co. Cork, P56 V268 Tel: +353 063 33710 Email: weddings@charlevilleparkhotel.com www.charlevilleparkhotel.com

The Wedding of

Aaron & Ryan

Who were married at the Celbridge Manor Hotel on 15th June 2019

Photography by Alice Kelly

168 I IWD Feature I Real Wedding

teardropphotography@hotmail.com

A

aron and I first met back in April 2013 in Andrew’s Lane Theatre at gay night, which was held every Friday evening called WAR! I started chatting to Aaron’s best friend, trying to get as much information about Aaron as I could. I found out his name, and when I went home that night, I added him on social media (Facebook). Aaron accepted my friend request, and, from then on, we were chatting for a few weeks.

I asked Aaron out on a date for the first time,

with the events manger, Caroline Walsh, and

and Aaron said yes. We went to my local leisure

she arranged a date for us to meet and see

plex in Tallaght to go bowling. Aaron had no

the venue.

clue how to bowl, and he even set off the alarm. After bowling we went for a few quiet drinks, and we exchanged numbers. From that day on we became a couple.

We had been dating for three years, and then on the night of my 21st birthday party, which was also Aaron’s birthday, I proposed to Aaron, and he said yes! As time went on, Aaron said that he would love to get married in a castle, and he did not want a long engagement. We spent a lot of time looking at magazines and looked online at various wedding websites for wedding venues (castles). The nearest thing we could find to a castle that suited our needs was the Celbridge Manor Hotel. We got in contact

The moment we got to the Celbridge Manor Hotel we fell in love with the grounds before we even entered the hotel.

When we got into the hotel Caroline was waiting for us at reception. She welcomed us with a big warm welcoming smile and a handshake. Caroline showed us around the hotel and what they had to offer for weddings.

She also gave us wedding brochures and went through the different packages they had on offer. Caroline also suggested that we

Real Wedding I IWD Feature I 169

should attend the next wedding showcase in

flower girls and one page boy. We had invited

the Celbridge Manor Hotel.

over 170 guests, and the staff at the Celbridge Manor Hotel were just amazing. they made

We didn’t need to. As Aaron and I walked out of

both Aaron and I, and all our guests, feel like

the Celbridge Manor Hotel and looked at each

royalty. Throughout and after the wedding, all

other, although this was the only venue we had

our guests commented on how fabulous the

viewed, we both said this is the one.

food was. We also had a second day and had

We booked our wedding in the Celbridge Manor

BBQ food, which the guests also thoroughly enjoyed and commented on for weeks after.

We had the most amazing day of our lives for our wedding, and it was all down to the Celbridge Manor Hotel, staff and suppliers.

Hotel for the 15th June 2019. Caroline was so

After our fantastic wedding we then went on

helpful in the lead up to our wedding day by

our honeymoon on the 18th of June 2019. We

emailing, calling and texting us each week to

flew to Hawaii, and we stayed at the Hilton

make sure we were not stressing, or just to let

Hawaiian Village. It was outstanding, and we

us know she was there if we needed anything.

did not want to come home. We have already

She was the best!

booked Hawaii again for our first-year anniversary.

We decided for our wedding we would have eight groomsmaids and four groomsmen, three

170 I IWD Feature I Real Wedding

Our love story is never ending and never will!

I would recommend The Celbridge Manor to anyone looking for a venue.

"NeitherCaroline Of Us Can Fault The Amazing Service, Food Or Any Part Of The Day. Our Guests is excellent at her job and made the process so easy and enjoyable.

Were Amazed BysoTh e Beautiful Venue And every The Newly Fountain, Drive Up And The day was relaxed, and we enjoyed secondErected with the help of the relaxed environment that was created by the entire team in Our the Celbridge Garden Area Look Stunning In All Photos" Manor Hotel & Mark -Sandra Marie and James

Wedding Wedding Packages PackagesAvailable Available From Fromâ‚Ź60 â‚Ź65 Per Per Person Person

For A Tour Of The Venue Or A Wedding Brochure, Please Contact Caroline On +353 (0) 1 601 3700 / events@celbridgemanorhotel.ie Celbridge Manor Hotel, Clane Road, Celbridge, Co. Kildare www.celbridgemanorhotel.ie

The Wedding of

Orla & Stephen Who were married in Farnham Estate Spa & Golf Resort, Cavan, on 6th July 2019

172 I IWD Feature I Real Wedding

Photography: pgvideosandphotography.com

S

tephen and I met ten years ago on a night out in Cookstown. In the summer of July 2017 on a trip to Kerry, Stephen proposed to me, and, of course, I said ‘yes’.

From the very beginning, I knew I wanted our

Everything about the hotel was so beautiful,

wedding to be simple yet elegant. The first big

from the grounds surrounding the hotel to

decision was choosing the venue. My sister had

the wedding banquet room.

told me about Farnham Estate in Cavan, and it was the first venue we decided to visit.

I purchased my dress at La Boda bridal, Banbridge. It was the second dress that I

From the moment I arrived at Farnham and met Ciara from the hotel I knew this was the perfect venue.

tried on, and I knew it was exactly what I wanted. We headed to Petticoat Lane in Hillsborough in search of my bridesmaid’s dress. The girls in Petticoat Lane were so good. Maria, my sister and bridesmaid, was

Real Wedding I IWD Feature I 173

pregnant when we went dress shopping, and

The day itself was just magical. From arriving

the girls gave us so much advice. We choose an

in the vintage Beetle to being entertained at

ivory dress for Maria because I really wanted to

the reception by Fiddler Adam; everything

keep all the colours neutral. The flowers were

went to plan.

a central part of the day for me, so I went to David McConkey Flowers, and he created exactly what I had in mind. I was blown away when I walked up the aisle and saw them.

The food and service provided by Farnham Estate was everything and more than we could have asked for.

We had such a great party with family and friends, and it was the perfect day for us.

We went to America on our honeymoon, visiting New York, Las Vegas, San Francisco and Miami.

174 I IWD Feature I Real Wedding

Groom’s

Aztec

Room Compiled by Peter Cole

Aboard

Multicoloured Aztec Print Short Sleeve Shirt €17.99- New Look

Print Tree

All

Cheater

Debenhams J By Jasper Conran

Tree Print Jacket €89.99 - TKMaxx Ireland

Wind

Yacht Hooded Harrington Dark Orange - €90 - Debenhams

Superdry Padded Elite

SD-Windcheater Jacket €89.99 - Superdry

Lapse A Little

FatFace Cotton Sherpa Deck Jacket

Man

in Sand £95, Pique Contrast Raglan Tee in Balsam £32.50, Slim Mid

Muscle

Wash Jeans in Denim, Foster Wax Collar Lace Up Boots in Chestnut £89

Beacon Lapse Jacket €210- Barbour

Grey muscle fit colour

Boys

block T-shirt

€15 - River Island

Pink

Burton Pink Chinos

€20- Burton Menswear London

Element In Your

In Your Element Jacket at Superdry

176 I IWD Feature I Groom’s Room

Boot Fat

FatFace Foster Wax Collar Lace Up Boots in Chestnut - €89 - FatFace

Night Over

Dune London Oblique - €85 Dune

The Heading Wedding Speeches

Sandra Sheerin, a public speaking coach for over 14 years, gives us her top tips to take the fear out of public speaking

Writing Your Speech:

are funny. People love to hear the words…

Delivering Your Speech:

•

‘I found a great quote that I thought was

•

Give yourself a few weeks before you write up your speech. Unless you are a stand-

very good, I want to share it with you’. The

for wedding speakers to think that they will

up comedian who can speak eloquently

pressure is off you then to be funny and

feel more relaxed after having a few drinks

off the cuff, chances are your nerves will

you will still entertain everyone.

to calm their nerves, but the reality is that they always regret having one too many.

come through because you forgot half of what you really wanted to say. Put a bit of time and effort into it and you won’t leave anything important out.

•

Break it down into three parts. Start with your thank yous and acknowledgements, move on to your stories of the bride and

Steer clear of controversial jokes that make the guests, or even worse the bride, feel uncomfortable

•

Keep it around the five minute mark.

eight lengthy pages of your speech written nervous at all, you will find that too many pages can distract you and you end up losing your place. You will also go back into school mode where you will feel as if you

•

•

Turn and look right at the newlywed couple

Anything longer tends to drag on for

‘This day is so emotional, even the cake is in tiers’. Unless everyone knows you’re

when you are speaking about them. This

attention while they are wondering how

cheesy and they expect that from you.

makes your speech much more sincere

Practice your speech out loud. If you only

and genuine for them and the guests will

•

Know your audience. Steer clear of

go over your speech in your head, you

controversial jokes that make the guests, or

don’t get to hear the sound of the actual

feel it also.

•

Enjoy it! You are at a wedding, a day for

even worse the bride, feel uncomfortable.

words you have written. How you imagine

celebrations and festivities, not delivering

There is nothing worse than hearing

your speech in your head can be very

a eulogy at a funeral. Be yourself and have

different to how you deliver it.

some fun with it.

tumbleweeds go by as you breathe heavily into the microphone wishing you could

•

are up reading in front of the class.

Stay away from cheesy lines such as

the guests and you will slowly lose their soon they can get up from their seat again.

•

Use note cards or one A4 page. Don’t bring out word for word up with you. If you are

groom and finish off with your toast.

•

Don’t drink. You will regret it. It’s common

•

If you have never held a microphone

time travel back 10 seconds before you

before, practice delivering your speech

About the author:

made that cringe inducing joke.

with a bottle of water as your microphone.

Sandra Sheerin offers private coaching sessions

Use quotes. If you don’t think you are any

When you get up to speak on the day, it

to anyone who needs help with an upcoming

good at telling jokes, you can always use

won’t feel so unnatural to hold your notes

speech or presentation. She can be contacted

quotes from other people that you think

and microphone together.

on Sandra@SpeechCoach.ie

Weddings I IWD Feature I 177

Groom’s

Room

Zipped

Compiled by Peter Cole

Brown Camouflage Zip-up Jacket

At River Island

Jacket Suit

Casual

Dark Navy Suit Jacket

€80 - Burton Menswear London

Smart

Polo and Jeans from River Island

Sleeve Long

Linen Striped

Pack

Dark Green Long Sleeve Shirt

Back

from River Island

Crocodile effect back pack from River Island

M&S Collection

Pure Linen Striped Shirt

Tone Two

€47.50 Marks & Spencer

Debenhams Red Herring Navy Two Tone Baseball €18 at Debenhams

Linen Striped

178 I IWD Feature I Groom’s Room

Silver Round Sunglasses €13 - Burton Menswear

Wedding Statistics

We’re always trying to get the lowdown on wedding trends in Ireland, and we’ve surveyed our readers over the last year to see what’s happening with brides and grooms around Ireland.

In the internet age of dating, it’s quite nice to see over 50% of you met the traditional way of meeting up through mutual friends or eyes across a crowded pub/dancefloor. Only 16% of you met online while the rest met at work,

We’ve noticed a bit of a change in the statistics

expense of the €1000–€3000 bracket. Guests

since our last survey in 2018, which are detailed

are also spending more with 14% of guests

in the following pages.

spending over €250 on presents up from 11%

You ladies out there are still in love with the

last year, and fewer people are giving gifts

traditional wedding dress with only 17% opting

under €100.

for a less traditional gown. When you want

It seems that weddings are getting a little bit smaller with 45% of weddings having between

school, or college.

to wear white, it’s nice to see that the vast

100 and 150 guests, up from 30% last year,

Fewer people are hiring cars with many people

majority of you are trusting this big purchase

while weddings with 150–200 guests fell from

getting married at the venue rather than a

to a local bridal boutique. The percentage of

31% to just 22%. The rest of the figures

church; under 60% of you are having a religious

you buying on the internet is still very small as

haven’t changed much with only a tiny number

ceremony. Videographers are becoming more

it’s such an important gown and you have to

having very small or very large weddings.

popular though, and so is having an after-party,

get it right.

both up about 5% on last year.

The age at which you are all getting married

Thankfully for us in Irish Wedding Diary, brides

has changed very little with a just a small

Our stats this year show that we’re not exactly

still love to browse through a bridal magazine

increase in the 25–35 age category, which still

rushing into marriage, as less than 6% of you

with 92% of you saying you would buy one and

makes up over 60% of weddings.

are getting engaged within a year and almost

the physical hard copy magazine still outsells

40% are dating for over 5 years before the

the online version.

People are splashing out on the engagement

engagement. The longest engagement answer

rings now with the number of couples spending

we got was 19 years, but I’m sure there’s a few

Finally, romance is still alive, as well as over

between €3000 and €5000 increasing at the

longer than that out there!

42,000 of you got married in 2018.

Weddings I IWD Feature I 179

35% 30%

ou re did y

35%

Whe

25% 20%

10%

30%

13%

Work

14%

School College

45%

Pub, Club, Concert

Mutual Friends

Guests Over 250

10%

6%

0%

Under 1 Year

1-2 Years

2-3 Years

3-4 Years

4-5 Years

Over 5 Years

Age On

Wedding Day

37%

30% Under 25

25%

30-35

25%

24%

14%

10%

9%

4% Under 50

Over 50

Over 100

Over 150

Over 200

3% Over 2560

Bridesmaids

30%

29%

25%

1

2

31%

5% 0%

Number of

Groomsnen

35% 30%

33%

3

4 20%

5

24%

20% 15%

12%

10%

8%

5% 0%

5%

Engagement Ring

35% 30%

32%

Cost

7%

5%

0%

1

2

20%

12%

t f i G g n i d Wed 30%

30%

24%

14%

10%

180 I IWD Feature I Weddings

Under €5000

Under €7000

Over €7000

14% 10%

5%

5% Under €3000

5

15%

20%

9%

4

e Averag

20%

15%

3

25%

27%

Under €1000

31%

25%

15%

25%

Over 35

15%

17%

35%

0%

5%

20%

22%

Number of

10%

12%

35%

3%

20%

10%

17%

16%

40%

30%

38%

Engaged

15%

Online

40%

20%

Before

10%

of

10%

Length

20%

16%

ber 50%Num

0%

25%

22%

5% 0%

35%

Meet

15%

40%

0%

7% 1% Under Over €100 €100

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

Wedding Statistics 2019 Abroad

3%

Bridal Boutique In Ireland

UK

7%

Maybe

Online

11%

79%

NO

8%

25%

YES

No

17%

75%

Where will you bu

y

Wedding Gown

Party Next Day

Tradional Dress

10%

47%

Will You Have a

Will You Wear a

Maybe

YES

80%

YES

NO

23%

YES

77%

NO

43%

Maybe

6%

Will You Hire A

Wedding Car

Will You Hire A

Videographer No

No

35% NO

30%

YES

70%

8%

YES

59%

ea Will You Hav

e Religous Servic

Will You Invite

Children

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

YES

Online Magazine

26%

Yes

Tradional Magazine

66%

Do You Buy

Wedding Mags

Weddings I IWD Feature I 181

A Reluctant Groom Dealing with the groom who doesn’t seem to care

By Caitriona Foley

182 I IWD Feature I Reluctant Groom

where “ toJustgotellandmewhen to show up ”

H

question

revealed) is to soothe and stroke his ego. If

rehearsal and beyond. The phenomenon of

which means he wants to

you spend hours whining about him getting

the ‘groomzilla’ has come hand in hand with

get married, right? Well

involved and asking for his advice, but then

‘Don’t Tell the Bride’; with men all over the

why isn’t he helping out?

shoot down all of his ideas because it doesn’t

country now thinking “it can’t be that hard”.

quite mesh with your ‘vision’, he will get

Well sure, planning a wedding in three weeks

Unfortunately, many brides get the feeling

frustrated and upset (in secret, of course).

flat is a fantastic feat, but when it’s your own

that he just wanted to take the pressure off

This is not just the bride’s day, and the

money that you’re working with, battling over

by buying a ring, and now the idea of planning

groom is not just a suited accessory. Your

sought-after dates in popular venues and

a wedding and making it all official is causing

wedding day should be a representation

managing a guest list of 200 plus, even the

the groom-to-be to break out in hives.

of your relationship and life together. If he

most talented groom may find himself in over

“Just tell me where and when to show up”

has a love of boats, rock music and pizza,

his head. There are stories of groomzillas

is a regular mantra that I have heard down

try and incorporate these into the big day.

who have infamously banned a long list of

through the years of working with wedding

He will have great fun organising it, and will

popular songs, fired photographers in the

couples, and I have seen the frustration and

enjoy the day a whole lot more. Direct him

middle of the day, haggled the price of the

sadness in the bride’s eyes. It’s time to face

to websites like Groom411 or The Plunge if

wedding to the point where there was very

the facts. As much as you love your fiancé,

he needs a guy’s perspective on the whole

little left and, of course, who could forget the

he might just not be into planning the finer

marriage thing.

groom who turned up to the church dressed

e

popped

the

as Superman.

details of your wedding. This does not mean, however, that he does not cherish the day as

If you need help, ask him for it! The beauty

much as you do!

of marriage is that it means a life together, supporting and loving each other. Mistaking

You might not always need advice, just a little cuddle late at night when you’re stressed out

Some brides may be happy to let the groom

disinterest in the beginning for an actual lack

take the backseat so that she can control

of wanting to help is a common misconception

everything that happens on the big day,

that a bride can make. If you are struggling,

but for those who truly do want their man

ask him for support where you need it. In

involved, the trick is to ask for their help with

most relationships, there can be one person

For the grooms reading this, let me offer some

the tasks they’re interested in. Don’t expect

who is too afraid to tell the truth when they’re

advice to you. Don’t shut down completely

him to take the same interest in the merits

not happy with something, and one who will

when the wedding planning begins. Don’t let

of peonies over calla lilies unless he’s an

happily tell the world. If you’re having an

your bride-to-be become overloaded with the

avid gardener and can actually share some

issue with a supplier but can’t work up the

stress of planning your big day. If you have

advice. If his hobby is classic cars, ask him

courage to tell them straight out, this could

a problem with something, tell her, and tell

to source your wedding transport. If he’s

be an ideal place for your partner to step in

her in time! Criticising the choice of venue,

into photography and design, make sure

and take the lead. On the other hand, you

the menu or the flowers at the last minute

he’s involved when choosing a wedding

might not always need advice, but a cuddle

is not constructive to the wedding, and it

photographer and invitations. Is he a fan of

late at night when you’re stressed out about

could be destructive to your relationship. Plan

Lonely Planet? You could have your very own

your mother’s guestlist can be all the support

this day together, and remember that at the

travel agent right there for the honeymoon.

you need.

end of the day, it is a celebration, a party.

Make sure the people you really want there

If he feels that he’s making an important contribution, there will be less of the eye-

Of course, the groom isn’t always the one

are invited. Dance to the band and ask them

rolling and sighs, followed by “whatever you

who lacks interest in the big white wedding.

to play your favourite song. Ensure that your

think yourself, love.” That irritating phrase

Plenty of brides-to-be are self-confessed

groomsmen are the guys you really want

might seem loaded with a lack of care, but

tomboys who don’t know where to begin

planning your stag, standing up there with

really they’re just thinking “happy wife, happy

when it comes to colour schemes and flowers,

you at the altar and lifting you high on their

life”!

and can’t get excited about dress fittings and

shoulders at the end of the night. Finally, and

save-the-dates. I have met many a groom who

most importantly, tell your bride that she is

One secret piece of advice that I must offer

has taken the lead on the planning process,

beautiful.

(and the guys probably won’t like this to be

managing everything from the budget to the

Reluctant Groom I IWD Feature I 183

The Joys of an Irish Stag Weekend

By Marcus Stewart

Why jet off to foreign shores when we’ve everything you need right here?

Quote to add a bit of col colour

184 I IWD Feature I Grooms

A

n invitation to a stag weekend brings with it a rush of excitement. All we want to know is who’s going, where we’re going, and for how long? A WhatsApp group is quickly formed, and each ping brings another compadre for the tour. Bring it on!

There is no shortage of options for a stag weekend in Ireland First of all, locations. While some parts of the country are a bit snooty about stag dos, there are many towns and cities that not only welcome them but actively encourage them.

Temple Bar is the go-to area in Dublin for foreign stag parties, so it must have something going for it.

But as reality starts to bite, we have other

I’d been there once before back in the early

concerns. Will I be able to get time off work?

noughties and was looking forward to seeing

What if the other half is on a hen night? We

the sights again. I should have realised

also have the million-euro question: how much

when we were in the airport, and the best

is this going to cost?

man was googling ‘Irish bars in Prague’ that we were not going to be seeing the

We all love the idea of a trip abroad, and for

finer things on offer in this wonderful city. I

a hen or stag party, it has the added benefit

don’t recall anyone even googling the opera

of the ‘what goes on tour stays on tour’,

house! Don’t get me wrong, I had a blast,

with less chance of bumping into your aunty

and it was a great weekend, but we could

Carmel when you’re three sheets to the wind.

have done it in Galway, Dublin, Waterford,

Whether you’re looking for sunshine, culture,

or Carrick-on-Shannon for that matter, and

adventure, or nightlife, you’ll find somewhere a

saved the €300 on airfare.

short flight away that will do the job. But you’ll

Carrick-on-Shannon has become a mecca

also find that at home too without the cost and

When you consider that the biggest bone

for stags and hens, and if you’re on a stag

hassle of a flight. Okay, the

of contention among both stag and hen

party there, you’re sure to meet up with at

organisers is collecting money from

least one or more other hen and stag parties,

here,

people and finalising numbers,

which generally adds to the revelry. You’ll find

but there wasn’t a lot of

the less you have to collect,

a welcome too in the likes of Sligo, Kilkenny,

sunbathing on any stag

the easier both these tasks

Waterford, and Galway city, while Dublin has

sunshine might not be readily

available

party I’ve been on!

Far-away hills are not always greener

become.

several venues that welcome a group of beerswilling lads who are keen for a bit of clean

The truth of the

town that hosts many stag and hen parties and

whatever is on

is a perfect size as it’s big enough to get lost

offer abroad can

in if you want but small enough to be found

The last stag party I

be had at home

if you’re genuinely lost. Most of the smaller

was on we went to

at

fraction

towns around Ireland are still recovering from

the beautiful city

of the cost. So,

the recession and their pubs, hotels, and

of Prague; I was

what’s on offer for

restaurants will be glad of the business a stag

a

is

fun with a whiskey chaser. Westport is another

that

delighted.

matter

a stag at home?

brings to the town.

Grooms I IWD Feature I 185

We’ve some of the best pubs in the world, but there are other things to do on a stag weekend than drink.

What about the activity?

Activities on a stag fill a dual purpose. While

whales, common dolphins, harbour porpoises,

and the last 5 years has seen the number of

seals, turtles, or basking sharks, but not all in

distilleries expand at a similar rate. Many of

the one trip of course. You can join one of the

these offer an interactive exhibition centre

boats that leave every morning in Cork, Clare,

where you’ll trace the history of not only their

and Galway to mention a few or hire a boat

product but the brewing process and distilling

just for your stag party where you can bring

in Ireland, both legal and otherwise. Oh, and

a few snacks and light refreshment (beer) on

by interactive, we mean you get to sample the

board. I know the women will say don’t mix

products.

stag weekends, drink, and the ocean but sure what could go wrong?

it gives a focus or a theme to the day and

Sporty stag Many grooms are organising their stag around

Deep Sea Fishing

one of their favourite sports. Having your

While we’re on the subject of the ocean,

stag on the day of the provincial final if you’re

of the pub until at least the early afternoon.

deep-sea fishing is another popular option for

into GAA, or a Heineken Cup match if you’re

While this won’t guarantee the stag won’t get

a stag party. There’s something very manly

a rugger bugger, or an international at the

messy, it should help. The standard activities

about trapesing down to the harbour early

Aviva if soccer’s your bag is a great idea. The

such as paintball, karting, golf, and clay pigeon

in the morning and heading out to sea in a

racecourse is another popular destination for

shooting all fill this role admirably, but why not

fishing boat. The fishing itself is fun and quite

stags. Getting tickets could be your biggest

think outside the box?

competitive while everyone tries to master

problem for some of these events but if you

the technique and you’ll certainly have a few

pick one that’s being televised live, you’ll be

fisherman’s tales to tell later in the pub. An

able to watch it in the pub. You can add a

adds a bit of healthy competition, bonding, and excitement, it also keeps the stag out

Hot Air Balloon Trips This might mean getting

added advantage is that there’s always

up a tad early as

at least one member of the stag

bit of spice to proceedings by setting up a few sweepstakes for the

most

of

these

who turns green the minute the

first scorer, score difference,

start

in

the

boat leaves the harbour, spends

and

but

the whole morning honking up

Charlie goes to the jacks

definitely

over the edge and will be known

in the first half.

morning, it’s a

thrill

your

as Popeye for the rest of the

stags will never

weekend (Irish Wedding Diary do

forget. It is also

not encourage bullying).

a bit of a mystery with

the

wind,

of

unusual

many

the

times

more

offerings

around stag parties is

Trip to a distillery or craft brewing

tour as the balloons fly

One

how

so

you’re not sure where you’re

I know we said half the

Bush Tucker Trials in Co. Sligo where you get to try your hand at ‘I’m

going to land. Your organisers

reason for an activity was to

A Celebrity, Get Me Out of

follow along on the ground, and

avoid alcohol for at least a few

Here!’ with some gruesome

the chances are you’ll land near a

hours, but a trip to a distillery

challenges inspired by the show.

pub, and they can drop you there while you

or

brewery

There is also the likes of bubble

recharge your batteries and arrange to pick you

won’t have you

football, zip-lining, archery,

up later. A word of warning though, this activity

knocking back

white

is weather dependent and you’ll need to have

the gargle like

kayaking,

a backup plan if the weather doesn’t play ball.

there’s

Whale watching

no

tomorrow.

water and

rafting, even

axe throwing would you believe it!?

There has been an

Ireland has a surprising number of whales off

explosion in the number

our coast, mainly on the west coast. You’ll

of craft brewers in Ireland

on your stag weekend is the

get a chance to see minke, fin, or humpback

over the last 10 years

departures lounge of an airport.

186 I IWD Feature I Grooms

So the only place to avoid

Groom’s

Room Compiled by Peter Cole

Suit Navy

Stripes Earn Your

Debenhams Racing Green Pink Stripe Shirt €50 - Debenhams

Linen Summer

Navy Textured Jacket €40 Textured Trousers €20 Penneys (Ireland)

M&S Collection Linen Jacket €115 - Marks & Spencer

Helix The

Trilby

Debenhams J By Jasper Conran Helix Technical Jacket Navy

Straw

€130 Debenhams

Navy Straw Trilby Hat

£14 Burton Menswear London

Ribbed Soft &

M&S Collection Supersoft Ribbed Jumper

€25 - Marks & Spencer

Aboard All

Wilburt Deck Shoe

€45 Crew Clothing

Groom’s Room I IWD Feature I 187

Groom’s

Room Compiled by Peter Cole

Floral Navy

Jumper Yellow

Basic Crew Yellow Jumper €8 at Penneys

Beach

Navy Floral Shirt €30 Burton Menswear London

On The

Jacket, Shorts, T-shirt and Deck Shoes from Marks & Spencer

Die Tie

Tie Die Blue

Quilt

Short Sleeve Shirt

Navy

from New Look

Aintree Quilted Jacket €149 Crew Clothing

Shorts Linen

Debenhams Hammond & Co Linen Mix Short Pale Pink €50 Debenhams

Print Aztec

Multicoloured Aztec

Print Short Sleeve Shirt €17.99 - New Look

188 I IWD Feature I Groom’s Room

Denim White

Ripped White Denim Jeans

from River Island

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Karin Clara Professional Singer

Wedding Ceremony Music & Pre-Dinner Entertainment

www.karin-music.net karinclaramusic@gmail.com Wedding Diary Directory I IWD I 191

mobile +353 87 7672477

UKEBOX

UKEBOX are an impeccable, talented and professional Ukelele Trio who play and harmonise like nobody else.

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