Margaret Connolly, Author at Wedding Journal

Peonies: The Perfect Wedding Flower

Margaret Connolly — Wed, 08 May 2024 13:37:31 +0000

Elevate the elegance and romance of your late spring/early summer wedding day with floral bouquets and displays full of lush peonies.

Peonies are beloved for their lush, full blooms and delicate, romantic appearance. These beautiful flowers come in a variety of colours, including shades of pink, white, and red, making them a versatile choice for wedding bouquets and arrangements. Their soft, fluffy petals and sweet fragrance add a touch of elegance and charm to any wedding setting.

One of the reasons why they are popular wedding flowers is their symbolism. Peonies are often associated with love, romance, and prosperity, making them a meaningful choice for couples looking to add a special touch to their wedding day. The lush, abundant blooms of peonies are said to represent good fortune and a happy marriage, making them a popular choice for brides and grooms.

In addition to their symbolism, peonies are also popular wedding flowers because of their availability. Peony season typically runs from late spring to early summer, making them a perfect choice for weddings held during this time of year. Their availability in a range of colours and varieties also makes it easy for couples to find the perfect peonies to complement their wedding theme and colour scheme.

You might also be interest in: How To Incorporate Faux Flowers Into Your Wedding Day

Furthermore, peonies are known for their longevity and durability, making them a practical choice for wedding flowers. These hardy blooms can withstand the hustle and bustle of a wedding day and still look fresh and beautiful throughout the celebration. Their ability to hold up well in bouquets and arrangements makes them a popular choice for brides and florists alike.

Overall, peonies are popular wedding flowers because of their beauty, symbolism, availability, and durability. Whether used in bouquets, centrepieces, or as accents throughout the wedding décor, peonies add a touch of romance and elegance to any wedding celebration.

BOOK TICKETS & MEET THE FLORISTS AT THE WEDDING JOURNAL SHOW

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Meet The Expert

Margaret Connolly — Tue, 07 May 2024 09:00:00 +0000

Killeavy Castle Estate is nestled within County Armagh’s stunning Slieve Gullion. In our Meet The Expert this month, we catch up with Events Manager Seidy Hynds to find our more about her and her job.

‘I first started working in hospitality when I was 19 in a small boutique hotel in Tallinn, and I knew hospitality was for me! Since then, I have worked in five-star exclusive hotels across Europe in a range of roles from Food and Beverage Manager to Wedding Co-ordinator and now find myself in my dream role of Events Manager at Killeavy Castle Estate.

‘I have a passion for weddings and working closely with our clients on the most important day of their lives is something I treasure. Working with these couples over the years and then watching their dreams come true on their wedding day is an incredibly rewarding feeling. I relish creating lifelong memories for these couples and their families, and I am incredibly proud of all the team in Killeavy Castle Estate involved in delivering these events.

‘The majority of my role at Killeavy is looking after weddings and in my spare time, I am always researching and reading about current wedding trends, ideas, and fashion shows! I just love all things wedding-related! So much so that, I am already annoying my husband to renew our wedding vows and we are only married three years!

‘The best thing about working in the wedding industry is the life-long bond that I build with couples and the friends I make through various suppliers. It is such a positive, inspiring industry, and I feel blessed to play my part.

‘In my spare time, I love to post on my social media page and share all things wedding related allowing couples to gather great tips and tricks to build their perfect day.

‘I truly believe weddings are not just stunning for the sake of stunning, they’re immersive, enticing and engaging at every turn. I feel they are enriched by experiences, steeped in sentiment, and buzzing with that rare feeling that happens when good people celebrate great love in incredible places.’

This is the first our our Meet The Expert profiles. We hope to share more with you over the coming months. Read more about Seidy and her role at Killeavy Castle Estate here

You can meet lots of wedding experts and chat with them face-to-face at The Wedding Journal Show in the TEC Belfast on 5th & 6th October. Book Today

The post Meet The Expert appeared first on Wedding Journal.

19 Wedding Movies To Watch This Weekend

Margaret Connolly — Fri, 03 May 2024 13:14:59 +0000

Fancy a feel good matrimonial flick that puts in a couple of hours on a rainy day? Here are 19 wedding movies to choose from.

We’ve lined up these 19 wedding movies up in the order of the year in which they were released – now all you have to do is pick one, sit back and enjoy! Watching while wearing a wedding dress is optional!

Marry Me (2022)

In the movie, Kat Valdez, played by Jennifer Lopez, is a famous pop star who discovers her fiancé is cheating on her during a concert. In a spontaneous moment, she agrees to marry a concertgoer, played by Owen Wilson, who holds up a “marry me” sign. They get married on stage, leading to a clash between his ordinary life as a dad and teacher and her glamorous lifestyle in the spotlight. However, as a romantic comedy, the story ultimately finds a way for them to live happily ever after.

The Wedding Season (2022)

Although this Netflix movie may follow a predictable Hallmark movie formula, the vibrant and stylish costumes add an extra layer of enjoyment. Ravi (played by Suraj Sharma) and Asha (played by Pallavi Sharda) decide to pretend to date each other during a summer filled with family weddings to please their parents. Asha is a dedicated worker eager to advance in her career, while Ravi is a DJ concerned about societal perceptions of his profession. As love blossoms amidst the festivities, romantic sparks start to fly.

The hilarious food poisoning scene from Bridesmaids

Bridesmaids (2011)

If you haven’t watched it yet this film follow the story of Annie (Kristen Wiig), a down-on-her-luck woman who is asked to be the maid of honour for her best friend Lillian’s wedding. As Annie navigates the challenges of planning the perfect bachelorette party and dealing with the other bridesmaids, she also struggles with her own personal and romantic issues. The movie explores themes of friendship, self-discovery, and the ups and downs of relationships, all while delivering plenty of laughs along the way – look out for the scene when they go to try on dresses after a dodgy lunch!

The Proposal (2009)

In this enemies-to-lovers story, Sandra Bullock plays a dedicated editor-in-chief who requires a green card to maintain her job. She persuades her assistant, portrayed by Ryan Reynolds, to marry her for his career advancement, leading to unexpected romantic chemistry between them.

Bride Wars (2009)

Emma (Anne Hathaway) and Olivia (Kate Hudson) are childhood best friends who have always envisioned their weddings taking place at the renowned Plaza Hotel in NYC. However, a twist of fate results in both of their weddings being booked for the same date. As a result, the two brides engage in a battle of sabotage to secure the coveted date solely for themselves.

Anne Hathaway & Kate Hudson in Bride Wars

Mamma Mia! (2008)

The connection between the iconic songs of ABBA, a bride-to-be named Sophie Sheridan (Amanda Seyfried), and her carefree mother (Meryl Streep) being unsure of which of three suitors is Sophie’s father may seem puzzling. However, these elements come together to create a joyous wedding-themed musical. Against the stunning backdrop of the Greek isles, “Mamma Mia!” offers a vibrant escape for any dancing queen feeling down about being confined during quarantine.

27 Dresses (2008)

Jane (Katherine Heigl) is perpetually a bridesmaid but never the bride, evidenced by her collection of dresses from various weddings she has participated in. When she crosses paths with reporter Kevin (James Marsden), they hit it off, unaware that Kevin is investigating Jane’s bridesmaid experiences after stumbling upon her misplaced day planner.

Made of Honour (2008)

This movie is a must-see for fans of Grey’s Anatomy, featuring Patrick Dempsey as Tom and Kevin McKidd as Colin. Tom, a lifelong bachelor, unexpectedly falls in love with his best friend Hannah, played by Michelle Monaghan. However, Hannah is already engaged to Colin, adding a twist to their complicated love triangle.

The Wedding Date (2005)

Kat (Debra Messing) is the maid of honor at her younger sister’s wedding, but the best man is actually Kat’s ex-fiancé. Feeling uncomfortable attending the event alone, Kat decides to hire an escort (Dermot Mulroney) to accompany her for the weekend. Despite the escort being charming, Kat finds herself developing feelings for him, leading to some complications along the way.

Wedding Crashers (2005)

This comedy follows the misadventures of two friends, John (Owen Wilson) and Jeremy (Vince Vaughn), who crash weddings to meet and seduce women. They have a set of rules they follow to successfully blend in and charm their way into the hearts of unsuspecting guests. However, their escapades take an unexpected turn when John falls for a bridesmaid named Claire, leading to a series of hilarious and heartwarming moments as the duo navigate love, friendship, and the consequences of their deceptive behaviour.

The slapping scene between Jane Fonda & Jennifer Lopez in Monster in Law

Monster in Law (2005)

Charlie and Kevin, a lovely couple played by Jennifer Lopez and Michael Vartan, are preparing to tie the knot. However, Kevin’s mother, Viola, portrayed by Jane Fonda, strongly opposes their marriage. Viola goes to extreme lengths to disrupt the wedding, even attempting to harm the bride. This leads to a series of chaotic events unfolding.

My Big Fat Greek Wedding (2002)

Nia Vardalos, the talented comedian who drew inspiration from her personal experiences and Greek background to create a delightful romantic comedy that achieved great success in 2002, stars alongside John Corbett from “Sex and the City,” who is often likened to a Greek god. Produced by the renowned duo Tom Hanks and Rita Wilson, the movie is considered a beloved cultural gem, transcending borders and captivating audiences worldwide.

The Wedding Planner (2001)

This film is a classic romantic comedy, which seees Jennifer Lopez (she stars in a few wedding movies on this list!) portrays Mary Fiore, a wedding planner who unexpectedly falls for the groom, played by Matthew McConaughey. This movie follows the traditional rules and themes of the rom-com genre, setting the stage for a successful era for both actors.

Wedding dress shopping in Runaway Bride

Runaway Bride (1999)

Trying to capitalise on the successful partnership of Julia Roberts and Richard Gere in Pretty Woman, this film follows the story of a woman named Maggie Carpenter (Julia Roberts), who has a reputation for leaving men at the altar. A journalist named Ike Graham (Richard Gere), hears about Maggie’s story and decides to write an article about her. As Ike gets to know Maggie, he starts to uncover the reasons behind her behavior and they both begin to develop feelings for each other. A heartwarming and entertaining movie that showcases the journey of finding true love and happiness.

The Wedding Singer (1998)

In this film Adam Sandler plays a cheesy New Jersey entertainer. Paired with the charming Drew Barrymore in a lighthearted film featuring an ’80s-inspired soundtrack, this ’90s comedy is a classic formulaic gem that leaves you yearning for similar movies to be made today.

My Best Friend’s Wedding (1997)

Julia Roberts – another popular wedding movie actress! – portrays Julianne, a spirited and stylish food critic, who harbours feelings for her close friend Michael (Dermot Mulroney). Meanwhile, Michael is a sports journalist for a local news outlet who is engaged to Kimmy (Cameron Diaz), a wealthy and kind-hearted woman. Determined to disrupt their upcoming wedding, Julianne resorts to dishonesty, manipulation, and cunning tactics, leading to a delightful and enchanting romantic comedy that puts a fresh spin on the genre’s traditional conclusion.

Four Weddings & A Funeral (1994)

If you’ve never seen it – where have you been! – this romantic comedy classic follows the story of a charming but socially awkward Englishman named Charles, played by Hugh Grant. The movie revolves around Charles attending four weddings and a funeral over the course of a year, where he repeatedly crosses paths with an American woman named Carrie, played by Andie MacDowell. As their relationship develops amidst the various ceremonies and events, Charles must navigate his feelings for Carrie and the challenges that come with love and commitment. The film explores themes of friendship, love, and the unpredictability of life’s twists and turns.

Father of the Bride (1991)

Strategically timed to coincide with Elizabeth Taylor’s actual wedding to Conrad Hilton Jr., the 1950 adaptation of “Father of the Bride” was a hit, featuring Taylor and Spencer Tracy. The 1991 remake by Nancy Meyers, starring Steve Martin and Kimberly Williams-Paisley, was also well-received. It’s a tough call on which version to watch first! However, we do love Martin Short in the comical role of wedding planner Franck Eggelhoffer.

The Princess Bride (1987)

This movie truly offers a diverse range of elements, including thrilling action sequences, swashbuckling pirates, hilarious comedy, and, of course, heartwarming romance. It’s hard not to feel a flutter in your heart when Westley (Cary Elwes) utters those iconic words, “As you wish,” to Buttercup (Robin Wright). Despite Buttercup’s unfortunate situation of being coerced into marrying the detestable Prince Humperdinck, the comical clergyman adds a touch of whimsy to the wedding ceremony with his unforgettable line, “Mawage. Mawage is what bwings us together today.”

Click here to find out more about The Wedding Journal Show in Belfast this October. It’s the ultimate wedding planning day out!

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Meet The Exhibitors At The Wedding Journal Show

Margaret Connolly — Fri, 03 May 2024 11:30:01 +0000

From wedding venues to bridalwear, groomswear, stationery, florists, photographers and so much more – it’s time to meet the exhibitors!

We’ve counting down the months until The Wedding Journal Show at the Titanic Exhibition Centre in Belfast this October and we can’t wait or you to be able to meet the exhibitors at this year’s show.

We’ve everything you need to plan your dream wedding day all under one roof thanks to the variety of exhibitors who are joining us this autumn.

From stylish wedding venues offering a range of styles and amenities alongside wedding bands and entertainment providers, to caterers and wedding planners, you will be able to talk to everyone you need to ensure you throw the best wedding reception ever!

As for the ceremony, pop along and meet the celebrants who will be able to offer ideas on how to say your vows in your own unique way. As for travelling to your weddign ceremony and on to your wedding reception, you’ll find retro and classic wedding cars and transport options able to get you and your wedding guests from A to B!

View the A-Z List of Exhibitors booked to date and attending The Weding Journal Show in Belfast this October

We also have a variety of wedding photographers and videographers showcasing their work over the course of the weekend. Whether you prefer candid or more posed keepsakes, you will be able to meet the man or woman behind the lens and see if you can work together to capture those all-important memories of the day.

When it comes to pre-wedding day prep we have our dedicated beauty zone should you have any skin or dental concerns or simply discover some enhancing make-up tips! There are also gorgeous wedding dresses galore as well as sharp suiting for the groom and his groomsmen.

Meet The Exhibitors and learn more about who is attending The Wedding Journal Show in the Belfast this October.

With five months until the big day we’ve lots more exhibitors still to be confirmed, so be sure to keep up-to-date with all new additions on www.weddingjournalshow.com

BOOK YOUR TICKETS TO THE WEDDING JOURNAL SHOW BELFAST

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Wedding Ceremony Music – What Should We Choose?

Margaret Connolly — Fri, 03 May 2024 11:17:03 +0000

While you might have the perfect first dance song all lined up, choosing the right music for your wedding ceremony might not be so easy! Here are a few helpful suggestions.

From walking down – and back up the aisle – as well as the musical interlude when you sign the marriage license, you’ll want to put consideration into the music used during your wedding ceremony.

When it come to choosing your music for this part of the wedding day it’s important to consider the overall atmosphere you want to create. Think about the theme of the wedding, your preferences, and the emotions you want to evoke.

Traditional, classical music can create a formal and elegant ambience, while contemporary or upbeat music can bring a more modern and lively feel to your wedding ceremony. It’s also essential to consider the timing of the music and how it will complement different parts of the ceremony. Ultimately, choose music that resonates with you and reflects the love and joy of the occasion.

Here are five examples of classical pieces from classical musicians commonly used in traditional wedding ceremonies:

1. “Canon in D” by Johann Pachelbel
2. “Bridal Chorus” from Wagner’s opera “Lohengrin”
3. “Ave Maria” by Franz Schubert
4. “Wedding March” from Mendelssohn’s “A Midsummer Night’s Dream”
5. “Air on the G String” by Johann Sebastian Bach

Also Read: Wedding Speech Tips & Templates For The Whole Bridal Party

Some popular contemporary musicians whose songs are often used for ceremony music include Ed Sheeran, John Legend, Adele, Bruno Mars, and Taylor Swift. Their heartfelt and emotional songs are perfect for setting the mood during special moments.

1. “A Thousand Years” by Christina Perri
2. “Marry You” by Bruno Mars
3. “All of Me” by John Legend
4. “All You Need is Love” by The Beatles
5. “Perfect” by Ed Sheeran
6. “At Last” by Etta James
7. “Can’t Help Falling in Love” by Elvis Presley
8. “You Are the Best Thing” by Ray LaMontagne
9. “How Long Will I Love You” by Ellie Goulding

These songs are often chosen for their romantic and emotional qualities, making them perfect for setting the tone during a wedding ceremony. Remember, this list is not exhaustive and these are just a few suggestions to get you thinking about this part of the wedding. Whatever music you select, make sure that it resonates with you and your partner, as it will add a special touch to your day.

Meet Wedding Singers & Musicians At The Wedding Journal Show in Belfast. Click Here To Book Tickets

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20 Things A Bride Needs To Do When Planning A Wedding

Margaret Connolly — Fri, 03 May 2024 10:34:13 +0000

Here’s a list of 20 things that as the bride, you may not have realised you would have to do when planning your wedding.

You’ve said ‘yes’ to the ring, now it’s time to start planning the wedding and we’ve compiled a list of 20 things that every bride needs to do.

1. Manage the guest list and RSVPs

2. Create a seating chart

3. Choose wedding favours

4. Select a wedding cake design

5. Co-ordinate transportation for guests

6. Source accommodation for guests whether at your venue or elsewhere

7. Create a wedding day timeline

8. Handle last-minute changes or emergencies

9. Choose wedding day attire for the bridal party

10. Selecting music for the ceremony and reception

checklists and spreadsheets will ensure you stay on top of everything that you have to co-ordinate!

11. Co-ordinate with wedding suppliers on the day of the wedding

12. Manage the budget and expenses

13. Obtain marriage licenses and legal documents

14. Plan for inclement weather back-up options

15. Organise wedding day logistics, such as parking and signage

16. Communicate with family members and bridal party members

17. Handle any cultural or religious traditions

18. Delegate tasks to family and friends

19. Manage emotions and stress throughout the planning process

20. Enjoy and savour the special moments of the day.

Remember it will all come together in the end, so make sure you allow yourself to relax and enjoy the day!

Wedding planning can be a complex and detailed process, but with careful organisation and support from loved ones, it can also be a rewarding and memorable experience.

Remember that some of these tasks can be delegated to family and your bridal party allowing you the chance to enjoy the lead up to and the actual wedding day itself. For example, number 11 – ask your bridal party to do any necessary laising or final payments to wedding suppliers on the wedding day.

Also if your chosen wedding venue comes with a dedicated wedding planner/co-ordinator as part of your package, lean on them as they are there to help and make the experience of organsing your ceremony and/or reception at their location as stress-free as possible. They will also have a list of wedding suppliers trusted by them that know the venue well and deliver a good service that you can rely on.

Take the stress out of planning your wedding and book your tickets to Meet the Exhibitors at The Wedding Journal Show

The post 20 Things A Bride Needs To Do When Planning A Wedding appeared first on Wedding Journal.

Wedding Speech Tips & Templates For The Whole Bridal Party

Margaret Connolly — Wed, 01 May 2024 21:43:25 +0000

Worrying about your wedding speech? Unsure where to start? Let us help you confidently and competently deliver the best wedding speech ever!

How To Deliver A Good Wedding Speech

When delivering a good wedding speech, it’s important to start by introducing yourself and your relationship to the bride and/or groom. Share heartfelt anecdotes or memories that showcase the love and bond between the couple. Keep your speech concise and engaging, and remember to speak from the heart. Practice beforehand to ensure you deliver your speech confidently and smoothly.

The Groom’s Speech

Of course! A good example of a groom’s wedding speech typically includes thanking everyone for being a part of the special day, expressing love and appreciation for the bride, sharing personal anecdotes or memories, and looking forward to the future together. It’s also common to thank both sets of parents and the wedding party for their support. Remember to speak from the heart and keep it genuine and heartfelt.

A Typical Structure For A Groom’s Speech

“Good evening, everyone. I want to start by thanking each and every one of you for being here to celebrate this special day with us. It means the world to us to have our loved ones gathered together.

I want to express my deepest gratitude to [bride’s name] for choosing me to be her partner in life. From the moment I met her, I knew she was the one I wanted to spend forever with. She is my rock, my best friend, and my greatest love. I feel incredibly lucky to have her by my side.

I also want to thank both of our families for their love and support throughout this journey. Your guidance and encouragement have meant everything to us.

To my beautiful bride, I promise to cherish and love you every day for the rest of our lives. I am so excited for all the adventures and memories we will create together. You are my everything, and I am grateful to call you my wife.

Lastly, I want to raise a toast to love, laughter, and happily ever after. Cheers to a lifetime of happiness and love. Thank you.”

Personalise this wedding speech with your own anecdotes and emotions to make it truly special for your wedding day.

The Best Man’s Speech

A great example of a best man’s wedding speech typically includes a mix of humour, heartfelt sentiments, and personal anecdotes about the groom. It’s important to keep it light-hearted and engaging, while also showing your genuine appreciation for the couple. Remember to thank the guests, compliment the bride, and wish the newlyweds a lifetime of happiness. And don’t forget to raise a toast to the happy couple!

A Typical Structure For A Typical Best Man’s Speech
1. Introduction:
– Start by introducing yourself and your relationship to the groom.
– Thank the hosts for the wonderful event and express your gratitude for being chosen as the best man.

2. Anecdotes & Stories:
– Share some funny or heartwarming anecdotes about the groom. This could include stories from your time together, memorable experiences, or inside jokes.
– Avoid embarrassing the groom or sharing inappropriate stories.

3. Compliments & Well-Wishes:
– Compliment the bride and groom on their relationship and express your happiness for their union.
– Offer well-wishes for their future together and share your hopes for their happiness.

4. Toast:
– Raise a toast to the newlyweds, wishing them a lifetime of love, joy, and happiness.
– Encourage guests to join you in toasting the happy couple.

The Father of the Bride Speech

A good example of a father of the bride wedding speech often includes welcoming guests, expressing gratitude for their presence, sharing heartfelt stories or memories about the bride, offering words of wisdom or advice for the newlyweds, and expressing love and blessings for the couple’s future together. It’s also common for the father of the bride to thank the groom and his family for their role in the wedding. Remember to speak sincerely and from the heart to make the speech memorable and touching.

A Typical Structure For A Father of the Bride Speech
1. Introduction:
– Start by welcoming the guests and thanking them for joining in the celebration.
– Introduce yourself as the father of the bride and express your joy and pride on this special day.

2. Memories & Anecdotes:
– Share some heartfelt and memorable stories about your daughter, from her childhood to present day.
– Highlight her qualities, achievements, and the special bond you share.

3. Welcome the Groom:
– Welcome the groom into your family and express your happiness in gaining a son-in-law.
– Share some positive words about the groom and your hopes for their future together.

4. Advice & Well-Wishes:
– Offer some words of wisdom and advice for the newlyweds as they start their journey together.
– Express your love and support for their marriage and wish them a lifetime of happiness and love.

5. Toast:
– Raise a toast to the bride and groom, wishing them a lifetime of love, joy, and prosperity.
– Encourage guests to join you in toasting the happy couple.

Bride’s Speech

A good example of a bride’s wedding speech typically includes thanking everyone for being a part of the special day, expressing love and gratitude towards the groom, sharing personal stories or memories, and looking forward to the future together. It’s also common for the bride to thank her parents and the wedding party for their support.

A Typical Structure For A Bride’s Speech
“Good evening, everyone. I want to start by thanking each and every one of you for being here today to celebrate this special moment with us. It means the world to us to have our loved ones gathered together.

I want to take a moment to express my gratitude to my parents for their love, support, and guidance throughout my life. Your unwavering belief in me has shaped me into the person I am today, and I am so grateful for everything you have done for me.

To my new husband, [Groom’s Name], you are my rock, my partner, and my best friend. I am so grateful to have you by my side as we embark on this journey together. Your love fills my heart with joy, and I am excited for all the adventures that lie ahead for us.

I also want to thank our families and friends for their love and support. Your presence here today fills our hearts with happiness, and we are so grateful for the love and warmth you bring into our lives.

As we begin this new chapter together, I promise to love, cherish, and support you through all the ups and downs of life. I am so excited to build a future with you, filled with love, laughter, and endless possibilities.

To all our guests, thank you for being a part of our special day. Let’s raise a toast to love, happiness, and new beginnings. Cheers!”

Remember to personalise your speech with your own experiences, emotions, and sentiments to make it truly special and heartfelt.

Mother of The Bride

When delivering a mother of the bride wedding speech, begin your speech by greeting the guests and expressing your gratitude for being part of this special day. Share heartfelt stories and memories about your daughter and welcome the groom into your family. Share some words of wisdom and keep your speech concise and to the point. Don’t be afraid to let your love and pride for your daughter shine through in your words.

A Typical Structure For A Mother of the Bride Speech

“I am honored to stand before you today as the mother of the bride. As I look at my daughter [Bride’s Name], I am filled with pride and joy. From the moment she was born, I knew she was destined for great things, and today, as she embarks on this new chapter of her life, I couldn’t be happier for her.

[Bride’s Name], you have always been a source of light and love in our family. Your kindness, strength, and determination inspire me every day. I have watched you grow into the amazing woman you are today, and I am so proud of the person you have become.

I want to take this opportunity to thank [Groom’s Name] for loving my daughter unconditionally and for bringing so much happiness into her life. I can see the love and respect you have for each other, and it warms my heart to know that you have found your soulmate in each other.

As you begin this journey together as husband and wife, I want to offer you both my love, support, and blessings. May your marriage be filled with laughter, joy, and endless love. Remember to always communicate openly, cherish each other’s differences, and never go to bed angry.

To [Bride’s Name] and [Groom’s Name], may your love continue to grow stronger with each passing day. I am so grateful to have witnessed this beautiful union, and I look forward to the many happy memories we will create together as a family. Cheers to the newlyweds!

Maid of Honour

A good example of a maid of honour’s wedding speech typically includes a heartfelt introduction, a personal anecdote about the bride, well wishes for the couple, and a toast to their future happiness.

A Typical Structure Form A Maid of Honour Speech

“Good evening, everyone. For those of you who don’t know me, I am [Maid of Honour’s Name], and I have the honour of standing by [Bride’s Name]’s side today as her maid of honour.

I have known [Bride’s Name] for [number of years], and I have had the privilege of witnessing the love between her and [Groom’s Name] grow and flourish. From the moment they met, it was clear that they were meant to be together.

[Bride’s Name] is not only my best friend but also my sister at heart. She has always been there for me through thick and thin, and I am so grateful to have her in my life.

Today, as I stand here, I see the love and happiness radiating from [Bride’s Name] and [Groom’s Name]. I have no doubt that they will continue to support and cherish each other for a lifetime.

So please join me in raising a glass to the newlyweds. May your love continue to grow stronger with each passing day. Cheers to [Bride’s Name] and [Groom’s Name]!”

Hopefully, this example helps you in crafting your own maid of honour speech.

You might also be interested to read: Top 10 Poems Perfect For Your Wedding Day

ENJOY THE ULTIMATE WEDDING PLANNING DAY OUT AT THE WEDDING JOURNAL SHOW – CLICK HERE TO BOOK TICKETS

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5 Reasons To Read Our New May/June Digital Magazine

Margaret Connolly — Tue, 30 Apr 2024 15:44:59 +0000

It’s time to lock yourself away for a while, coffee – or wine – in hand and get ready to escape down the wedding planning rabbit hole with the latest digital issue of Ireland’s Wedding Journal.

Here we highlight just 5 Reasons – there are many more! – you need to read the new magazine today….

Reason 1: Planning Guides & Checklists

This is our ultimate planning issue and we’ve guides and checklists for everything from buying your wedding dress to choosing your wedding venue, videographer, planning the hen and stag parties and more! Whatever the questions you should be asking or the points you need to consider for all areas of your wedding day, we’ve got it covered.

Reason 2: Informative News Pages

Every issue we aim to highlight the wide variety of Irish brands and businesses who want to help you plan the best wedding day ever! From fashionable finds to favours, entetaining ideas to tasty treats, there are so many great local suppliers all on hand to help you craft your perfect wedding day.

CLICK HERE TO READ THE NEW MAY/JUNE DIGITAL MAGAZINE

Reason 3: The Latest Bridal Fashion

This issue we take a closer look at lace and beaded wedding dresses, as well as designs adorned in romantic ruffles! We also focus on the alternative to the traditional wedding dress – yes, if you’re a bride who prefers a pair of trousers or a jumpsuit then we’ve got a few stylish options to see you down the aisle in style!

Reason 4: A Stylish Parisien Photoshoot

We adore a good photoshoot and are delighted to be able to share this Parisian creative wih you to hopefully inspire your own city chic celebrations – wherever that may be!

Reason 5: Four Fabulous Real-Life Weddings

Once again we are fortunate to be able to share the romantic love stories of four real-life couples, as well as some of the beautiufl images taken by their photographers that illustrate their day. These have to be amongst our favoruite reasons to read the magazine and the ideas and advice to be gained from other couples is not to be missed!

Trust us, while we just highlight 5 Reasons here – there are many more that we could list! So, enjoy our new issue and hopefully you find planty to help you on your wedding planning journey.

CLICK HERE TO READ THE NEW MAY/JUNE DIGITAL MAGAZINE

The post 5 Reasons To Read Our New May/June Digital Magazine appeared first on Wedding Journal.

Wedding Dress Styles & The Body Shapes They Suit

Margaret Connolly — Wed, 24 Apr 2024 23:27:36 +0000

Before you start shopping for your wedding dress, it’s advisable to know the styles available and if they’re flattering for your body shape.

A-Line

The A-line wedding dress silhouette is a classic choice that suits most body shapes. It is fitted at the bodice and flares out gradually to the hem, resembling the shape of an uppercase ‘A’. This style is flattering for pear-shaped, hourglass, and apple-shaped figures as it creates a balanced and elongated look.

Casey-Belle from Romantica

Ball Gown

The ball gown silhouette features a fitted bodice and a full skirt that flares out from the waistline. This style is ideal for brides with hourglass or pear-shaped figures, as it accentuates the waist and creates a dramatic, princess-like look. However, it may overwhelm petite or apple-shaped figures.

Awesta from the Adorious Collection by Modeca

Mermaid

The mermaid silhouette is fitted through the bodice, waist, and hips, then flares out at the knees to create a dramatic, fishtail-like shape. This style is best suited for brides with hourglass or pear-shaped figures who want to show off their curves. It may not be as flattering for apple-shaped or petite figures.

Gloriana from Elysee

Sheath/Column

The sheath or column silhouette is form-fitting and follows the natural shape of the body from the neckline to the hem. This style is versatile and can suit a variety of body shapes, including slender, hourglass, and petite figures. However, it may not be as forgiving for apple-shaped or pear-shaped figures.

Sants from Pronovias

You might also be interested in: Sparkling Elegance – Ways To Include Sparkles On Your Wedding Dress

Trumpet

The trumpet silhouette is fitted through the bodice and hips, then flares out gradually from mid-thigh to create a trumpet-like shape. This style is perfect for brides with hourglass or pear-shaped figures who want to highlight their curves. It may not be as flattering for apple-shaped or petite figures.

Style 44396 from Sincerity

Tea-Length

The tea-length silhouette features a skirt that falls between the knee and the ankle, creating a vintage-inspired look. This style is versatile and can suit a variety of body shapes, including hourglass, pear-shaped, and petite figures. However, it may not be as flattering for apple-shaped figures.

Maxine from the Brighton Belle Collection by True Bride

Kaoria Wedding Dress from Ronald Joyce

Short

Short wedding dresses come in various styles, including mini, knee-length, and high-low hemlines. These dresses are perfect for petite brides or those looking for a more casual or non-traditional look. They can suit a variety of body shapes, depending on the specific style chosen.

Geminis from MaryLise Short Dress Collection

Leo from MaryLise Short Dress Collection

Ultimately, the most important factor in choosing a wedding dress is how you feel in it. Regardless of your body shape, the right dress is one that makes you feel confident, beautiful, and comfortable on your special day. It’s always a good idea to try on different styles and consult with a professional bridal consultant to find the perfect dress that suits your body shape and personal style.

Looking for your Dream Dress? Don’t miss the spectacular Bridal Catwalk Show at The Wedding Journal Show. Enjoy Reserved Seating when you Book & Go VIP!

Featured Image: Lulu from Kelsey Rose

The post Wedding Dress Styles & The Body Shapes They Suit appeared first on Wedding Journal.

15 Wedding Traditions For Modern Day Couples

Margaret Connolly — Wed, 24 Apr 2024 22:26:16 +0000

Here we highlight examples of 15 wedding traditions that today’s couples are incorporating into their special day.

1. First Look Photos

The first of our 15 wedding traditions, first look photos have become a popular modern-day wedding tradition for several reasons. Firstly, they allow the couple to have a private and intimate moment together before the ceremony, which can help calm nerves and create a special memory. It also provides an opportunity for the photographer to capture genuine emotions and reactions in a more controlled setting. Additionally, first look photos can help save time after the ceremony, allowing the couple to join their guests sooner and enjoy more of their wedding day. Overall, first look photos have become popular for their ability to enhance the wedding experience and create beautiful, emotional moments for the couple.

2. Personalised Vows

Personalised vows allow couples to express their unique love story and personal feelings in a way that traditional vows may not capture. This adds a special and intimate touch to the ceremony, making it more meaningful and memorable for both the couple and their guests. They also allow couples to tailor their promises to each other, reflecting their individual personalities, values, and experiences. This can create a deeper emotional connection between the couple and showcase their commitment to each other in a more personal and authentic way. Furthermore, personalized vows can make the ceremony more engaging and heartfelt for the guests, as they get a glimpse into the couple’s relationship and love for each other.

3. Non-Traditional Wedding Venues

Couples are increasingly looking for unique and personalised ways to celebrate their special day, and opting for a non-traditional venue allows them to showcase their individuality and creativity. Non-traditional venues can offer a more intimate and personalised setting, allowing couples to create a wedding experience that truly reflects their personalities and interests. Additionally, non-traditional venues often provide a more flexible and customisable space, allowing couples to design their dream wedding without being constrained by traditional wedding norms. Overall, choosing a non-traditional wedding venue has become a popular trend as couples seek to break away from conventional wedding traditions and create a memorable and unique celebration.

4. Social Media Announcements

Social media announcements have become a popular wedding day tradition because social media platforms provide a convenient and efficient way to share important life events with a wide audience, including friends, family, and acquaintances who may not be able to attend the wedding in person. It allows couples to quickly and easily announce their marriage and share photos and updates with their social network. Additionally, social media announcements can help couples feel connected to their loved ones, especially those who are far away or unable to attend the wedding. It also allows for immediate gratification and instant feedback from well-wishers, creating a sense of celebration and community around the couple’s special day. They also serve as a way to document and preserve memories of the wedding day, as couples can look back on the posts and comments in the future.

5. Wedding Hashtags

Wedding hashtags provide a fun and creative way for couples to personalise their wedding and create a sense of unity among guests. Wedding hashtags also make it easier for guests to share photos and memories from the event on social media platforms like Instagram, Facebook, and Twitter. This allows for easy access to all the wedding-related content in one place, making it convenient for both the couple and their guests to relive the special moments. Additionally, wedding hashtags can help capture the essence of the wedding day and serve as a digital keepsake for the couple to look back on in the future.

6. Eco-Friendly Weddings

Increasing awareness of environmental issues and the desire to reduce the carbon footprint of weddings has led to a desire by more couples to hist an eco-friendly celebration. Couples are becoming more conscious of the impact their celebrations have on the environment and are choosing to incorporate sustainable practices into their wedding planning. By opting for eco-friendly weddings, couples can reduce waste, conserve resources, and support environmentally-friendly vendors and practices. This trend aligns with the growing global movement towards sustainability and responsible consumption. Eco-friendly weddings not only help protect the planet, but also allow couples to express their values and commitment to a greener future through their special day.

You might also be interested in: Eco Chic – 10 Ways To Have A Sustainable Wedding

7. Unique Catering Options

Dining options such as food trucks and grazing tables offer a more casual and relaxed experience, which appeals to couples looking for a less traditional wedding reception. Food trucks also provide a wide variety of cuisine options, allowing couples to cater to different tastes and dietary restrictions among their guests. Additionally, the couple might be looking for a more cost-effective wauy to feed their guests.

8. Destination Weddings

Destination weddings provide an opportunity for couples to combine their wedding and honeymoon, saving time and money. Additionally, they often have smaller guest lists, creating a more intimate and relaxed atmosphere. They can also be less traditional and allow couples to personalise their ceremony and celebration in a way that reflects their personalities and interests. Overall, destination weddings offer a special and unforgettable way to tie the knot.

Destination Weddings

DIY Wedding Décor

9. Unplugged Ceremonies

Unplugged ceremonies are weddings where guests are asked to refrain from using electronic devices such as smartphones and cameras during the ceremony. This means that guests are fully present and engaged in the moment, without distractions from technology. This can create a more intimate and meaningful atmosphere for the couple exchanging vows. Additionally, unplugged ceremonies help to ensure that professional photographers hired for the event can capture high-quality images without interference from guests’ devices. This can result in better-quality photos and a more cohesive visual story of the wedding day.

10. DIY Wedding Décor

DIY wedding décor allows couples to add a personal touch to their wedding day, making it unique and reflective of their personalities. It also provides an opportunity for couples to save money by creating their own decorations rather than purchasing expensive pre-made items. Additionally, DIY projects can be a fun and creative way for couples to bond and involve their friends and family in the wedding planning process. Overall, DIY wedding decor adds a sense of authenticity and individuality to the celebration, making it a popular choice for modern couples.

11. Wedding Websites

Wedding websites provide a convenient and centralised platform for sharing important information with guests, such as venue details, accommodation options, and RSVP links. This can help streamline communication and reduce the need for multiple emails or calls. Additionally, wedding websites allow couples to personalise their wedding experience by sharing their love story, photos, and other personal details. They also serve as a digital hub for guests to access important updates, gift registries, and event schedules. Overall, they’re a modern and efficient way to keep guests informed and engaged throughout the wedding planning process.

12. Alternative Wedding Gift Registries

Alternative wedding gift registries have gained popularity for their ability to offer couples more diverse and personalised gift options while aligning with modern values and preferences. These registries often include unique experiences, charitable donations, or unconventional gift options in addition to traditional household items.

13. Non-Traditional Wedding Attire

Non-traditional attire allows couples to express their individuality and style on their special day. Additionally, as weddings become more diverse and inclusive, couples are embracing non-traditional attire to reflect their cultural backgrounds, personal beliefs, or simply to make a fashion statement. This trend also aligns with the overall shift towards more casual and relaxed wedding ceremonies, where comfort and self-expression are prioritised over strict adherence to traditional dress codes.

14. Live Streaming Ceremonies For Virtual Guests

In today’s digital age, live streaming technology has made it easier than ever to broadcast events in real-time, making it a popular choice for couples looking to make their wedding more accessible and inclusive for all their loved ones.

15. Post-Wedding Events

Extending the celebrations beyound the wedding day provide an opportunity for the newlyweds and their guests to come together in a more relaxed setting after the main event. It allows for more intimate conversations and quality time with loved ones who may have travelled from afar to attend the wedding. It’s a chance for guests to reminisce about the wedding day, share stories, and extend the celebration.

For More Help Planning Your Wedding – Don’t Miss The Wedding Journal Show – Buy Tickets Online & Save 20%

The post 15 Wedding Traditions For Modern Day Couples appeared first on Wedding Journal.

How To Have The Best Hen Party EVER!

Margaret Connolly — Wed, 24 Apr 2024 21:18:47 +0000

By following these tips, you can create a truly memorable hen party for the bride-to-be.

Plan Ahead

Start planning the hen party early to ensure everything runs smoothly and all guests can attend. The earlier you statr the better as you need to allow enough time to co-ordinate with the bride, select a date that works for everyone, book any necessary accommodations or activities, and send out invitations to guests. Starting early also gives you the flexibility to make any necessary adjustments or changes to the plans without feeling rushed.

Personalise The Party

Tailor the activities and theme to the bride’s preferences and interests. Here are some ideas on how you could look to personalise the party:

1. Customised Invitations: Create personalised invitations that reflect the bride’s style and theme of the party.

2. Personalised Decorations: Use decorations that showcase the bride’s favorite colours, themes, or interests.

3. Customised Party Favours: Give guests personalised party favours that reflect the bride’s personality or the theme of the party.

4. Personalised Games & Activities: Plan games and activities that are meaningful to the bride, such as trivia about her and the groom or activities that reflect her hobbies.

5. Customised Attire: Consider matching outfits or accessories for the bride and guests that tie into the party theme.

6. Personalised cocktails or drinks: Create signature cocktails or drinks named after the bride or inspired by her favourite flavours.

7. Personalised Playlist: Create a playlist of the bride’s favorite songs or songs that hold special meaning for her to set the mood for the party.

Choose A Fun Location

Whether it’s a spa retreat, a beach getaway, or a city break, pick a location that suits the bride’s style. If you are planning a trip away over a few days, we’d recommended planning it at least two to three months in advance of the wedding to give the bride and the rest of the hen party enough time to get back on track before the big day!

Organise Fun Activities

Plan games, workshops, or experiences that will create lasting memories for the bride and her guests. For example pampering treatments, cocktail making classes, a dance class, comedy club night, concert or music festival, afternoon tea, craft workshop or outdoor activities like hiking, kayaking, or zip-lining for an adrenaline-filled experience.

Consider Hiring A Professional Planner

If you want a stress-free experience, consider hiring a professional planner to handle all the details. For example, try the likes of thehen.ie to help you organise the perfect hen celebrations for your bride to be.

Don’t Forget The Details

Pay attention to small details like decorations, favours, and special touches to make the party memorable. Whether you opt for stylish or tacky – or you have the skill to combine both is up to you and what you know will work for your bride.

Keep The Bride’s Comfort In Mind

Ensure the bride feels comfortable and relaxed throughout the party, and consider her preferences when planning activities. For example, if you know she won’t appreciate a stripper, don’t get her one! Or if she has an adversion flying plan the party closer to home!

You might also be interested in: The Best Capitals In Europe To Host A Stag Or Hen Party

The post How To Have The Best Hen Party EVER! appeared first on Wedding Journal.

WIN Bridesmaid Dresses From Motee Gowns

Margaret Connolly — Thu, 18 Apr 2024 21:30:06 +0000

Motee Gowns are giving one lucky bride the chance to win four bridesmaid dresses from their Beaded Collections.

Offering the chance to win bridemaid dresses this month, Motee Maids was launched in 2017 by a team of leading experts who wanted to create a new and exciting brand with a unique concept that allowed brides to have creative input to ensure each of their maids have tailor-made dress designs.

After years of success with their mix and match bridal collection that now extends to 20 colours, 13 bodice choices, various sleeve options, eight bead designs and six skirt designs, the brand wanted to move into offering their same mix and match style in luxury Duchess satin, moving on not just as a maids brand, but also stunning dresses that can be worn for all occasions hence the change of name from Motee Maids to Motee Gowns.

‘At Motee Gowns, we believe every member of the bridal party deserves a gown that reflects their unique style and personality,’ comments brand director and owner, Amit Arora.

‘Our mission is to empower brides to create a cohesive look for their wedding day while ensuring their bridesmaids feel confident and beautiful,’ he adds.

Motee Gowns has have recently taken up residence at creative hub Tile Yard North in West Yorkshire. As Creative Brand & Design Manager, Helen O’Sullivan explains, ‘We are thrilled to join the vibrant community at Tileyard North and embark on this new chapter of growth. We look forward to collaborating with local talent and extend the reach of the brand – opening further opportunities for new stockist partnerships throughout the country.’

With this move, Motee Gowns reaffirms its dedication to providing brides and their bridal parties with exceptional attire and personalised service, setting the stage for continued success and innovation in the bridal industry.

Real-life bridesmaids wearing their Motee Gown designs…

To see more of the collections from Motee Gowns click here

COMPETITION

How To Enter:

Follow @moteegowns on Instagram
Follow @weddingjournal on Instagram
Fill in the entry form below to win bridesmaid dresses.

NB. All three entry criteria must be completed or you will not be eligible to win.

Closing Date: Saturday 18th May 2024

T&Cs

The competition is open to all brides and their bridesmaids throughout the island of Ireland.
There is no entry fee and no purchase necessary to enter this competition.
There must be at least seven months between the competition closing date and your wedding date.
The prize is non-transferable.
The prize is as stated – four bridesmaids dresses from Motee GownsBeaded Collections up to the value of £/€2,000. Any additional costs over the stated amount of £/€2,000 must be covered by the bride. The prize value does not exceed £/€2,000.
Wedding Journal will choose a winner at random and notify the winner of receipt of their prize within seven days. Once they are notified, if they don’t reply within 14 days a new winner will be chosen.
The winner must be prepared to travel to the allocated Motee Gowns stockist nearest them. Travel expenses will be the winner’s own.
Wedding Journal will keep in touch with both the winning bride and Motee Gowns to ensure receipt of the prize.
The bride is responsible for any dress alteration costs.
We would appreciate if the winner would be willing to share photographs – approved by them – of their bridesmaids wearing their dresses from Motee Gowns to be posted to social media by Motee Gowns and Wedding Journal.

The post WIN Bridesmaid Dresses From Motee Gowns appeared first on Wedding Journal.

VIP Tickets To The Wedding Journal Show On Sale Now!

Margaret Connolly — Thu, 18 Apr 2024 14:42:49 +0000

Limited to only 600 – our VIP Tickets have just gone on sale and we can also reveal two of the beauty brands in the VIP Goodie Bag!

When you book VIP tickets to The Wedding Journal Show you will enjoy a whole host of benefits to make your day out even more enjoyable. These include:

FAST TRACK ENTRY

Avoid any queues and enjoy quicker access to all of our exhibitors when you go VIP. All VIP ticket holders get fast track entry into the show, so you get to spend more time planning your big day, finding unique inspo and availing of those exclusive show offers.

RESERVED CATWALK SEATING

Running three times daily, our spectacular bridal catwalk show is the perfect place to see your dream dress in action. Want to guarantee yourself a good seat? VIP ticket holders get reserved front row catwalk seating so you can experience the magic from the best seats in the house!

VIP TICKETS ARE LIMITED TO 600 – DON’T MISS OUT, BOOK TODAY!

EXCLUSIVE VIP LOUNGE

Relax in our exclusive VIP lounge where you can sip on a glass your complimentary glass of Prosecco and indulge in some sweet treats as you take in all the inspiration and new ideas from your day out. VIP tickets come with unlimited access to the VIP Lounge throughout the day, so you can treat yourself, rest your feet and mingle with other brides and grooms-to-be!

Enjoy A VIP Girls Day Out!

LUXURIOUS GOODIE BAGS

When you pre-book your VIP ticket online a luxurious goodie bag is included in the price of your ticket.** Get your hands on an exclusive goodie bag filled with a range of products including an award-winning Ayu Instant Under Eye Concealer (£15) and must-have Dr Sam’s Flawless Lip Tint (£15) – with more to be revealed over the coming weeks!

VIP TICKETS ARE LIMITED TO 600 – DON’T MISS OUT, BOOK NOW!

When you buy any ticket to The Wedding Journal Show you are automatically entered to Win A £30,000 Wedding!

The post VIP Tickets To The Wedding Journal Show On Sale Now! appeared first on Wedding Journal.

First Dance Song – 23 of the Best!

Margaret Connolly — Thu, 18 Apr 2024 11:23:54 +0000

Selecting the ideal first dance song can pose a significant challenge for numerous couples. Given the abundance of choices at hand, narrowing down options and pinpointing the perfect song can prove to be a daunting task. Here are 23 ideas to help you get started…

The first dance song holds a pivotal role in every wedding reception. It signifies the moment when the newlyweds grace the dance floor together for the first time as a married couple, establishing the mood for the remainder of the evening. A well-chosen song has the power to craft a romantic and enduring moment that the couple will treasure for a lifetime.

When selecting a song, consider the significance it holds for you and your partner. Choose a song that reflects your relationship, evokes positive emotions, and has lyrics that resonate with you both. Additionally, consider the tempo and style of the song to ensure it aligns with your dance preferences. Ultimately, the most important factor is selecting a song that is meaningful to you as a couple and will create a memorable moment on your special day.

This selection of songs combines timeless classics with modern hits, guaranteeing a romantic and unforgettable moment for the newly married couple. Whether you seek a slow, heartfelt ballad or a lively, joyful tune, this compilation offers something to suit every taste and preference.

“Adore You” by Harry Styles

“You Are The Reason” by Calum Scott

“Love on Top” Beyonce

20 more options for you to consider…

“At Last” by Etta James
“Thinking Out Loud” by Ed Sheeran
“All of Me” by John Legend
“Can’t Help Falling in Love” by Elvis Presley
“Perfect” by Ed Sheeran
“A Thousand Years” by Christina Perri
“Unchained Melody” by The Righteous Brothers
“Marry Me” by Train
“You Are the Best Thing” by Ray LaMontagne
“I Don’t Want to Miss a Thing” by Aerosmith
“Amazed” by Lonestar
“Stand by Me” by Ben E. King
“Everything” by Michael Bublé
“L-O-V-E” by Nat King Cole
“The Way You Look Tonight” by Frank Sinatra
“I Choose You” by Sara Bareilles
“You Are the Sunshine of My Life” by Stevie Wonder
“I Won’t Give Up” by Jason Mraz
“Better Together” by Jack Johnson”Fly Me to the Moon” by Frank Sinatra

There is a wide selection of excellent first dance songs available for weddings in 2024. By referencing the top 30 wedding first dance songs, couples can discover the ideal song to enhance the memorability of their special day.

Read More: Poems for your wedding ceremony

The post First Dance Song – 23 of the Best! appeared first on Wedding Journal.

WIN A Sparkling Afternoon at Mount Juliet Estate (CLOSED)

Margaret Connolly — Mon, 15 Apr 2024 11:14:33 +0000

One lucky bride has the chance of winning a sparkling wedding planning afternoon at Mount Juliet Estate.

Mount Juliet Estate in Co. Kilkenny is a beautiful wedding venue and this five-star hotel is inviting one bride and three of her guests to enjoy a Champagne Afternoon Tea at the property, as well as an exclusive, private consultation with their experienced wedding planner.

Built 250 years ago and set on five-hundred glorious acres, the five-star Mount Juliet Estate offers two beautiful wedding venues: the elegant Georgian Manor House, or contemporary Hunter’s Yard Hotel.

Opulent luxury and classic detailing await at The Manor House, which hosts weddings for up-to ninety-six people. Home to the Michelin-star awarded Lady Helen restaurant, a private cinema and the timelessly stylish 1757 bar.

Hunter’s Yard is a beautiful setting for wedding celebrations hosting up to two hundred guests. Sophisticated, ballroom decor draws on the building’s rich equestrian history. With a charming, cobbled courtyard, and beautiful views of the Jack Nicklaus Championship golf course.

You’re Invited: Mount Juliet Estate is hosting an exclusive Wedding Evening on Thursday May 2nd, from 6pm-8pm. To join this event, simply register by calling 056 777 3000 or email weddings@mountjuliet.ie.

Prize Includes

An exclusive, private consultation with their experienced Wedding Planner.
Champagne Afternoon Tea for four people served in the splendour of The Manor House at Mount Juliet Estate.

How To Enter

Follow @weddingjournal on Instagram
Follow @mountjulietestate on Instagram
Tag your bridal party & include the hashtag #mountjulietweddings in your reply.
Fill in the form below

NB. All four steps must be completed for your entry to be eligible.

Competition closes on Friday 26th April 2024.

T&Cs

The winner will be contacted on Monday 29th April 2024.
Booking is subject to availability.
No cash alternative.
Prize is not transferable.
Juldge’s decision is final
Valid for 12 months until 30th April 2025.

The post WIN A Sparkling Afternoon at Mount Juliet Estate (CLOSED) appeared first on Wedding Journal.

WIN A £30,000 Wedding Package!

Margaret Connolly — Fri, 12 Apr 2024 09:38:53 +0000

The Wedding Journal Show has partnered with leading brands to offer one lucky couple the chance to win an amazing £30,000 wedding package this October!

This fantastic competition is back and we are delighted to partner with some fantastic wedding suppliers to make one lucky couple’s dream wedding come true. Here are all of the confirmed prizes making up this life-changing £30,000 giveaway…

Thérapie Clinic are offering beauty treatments up to the value of £1,500

Thérapie Clinic an Irish owned business with over 20 years’ experience, is the proud purveyor of medical aesthetics treatments delivered by over 1,500 employees in more than 70 clinics across Ireland, the US, and the UK. The experienced medical team at Thérapie Clinic has delivered more than ten million accessible and affordable treatments to clients.

The multi award-winning brand has cemented its reputation as Europe’s number one medical aesthetics and laser specialist. The industry leading brand provides Laser Hair Removal and medical aesthetic treatments, including EMSCULPT, EMSELLA, CoolSculpting, anti-wrinkle injections, lip, and dermal fillers. They also provide an extensive range of advanced skin treatments to cater to individual skin types and concerns, delivering amazing results and always prioritising customer needs.

Thérapie Clinic has invested in the very latest FDA-approved technology to deliver measurable and high-quality results for clients. Their mission is to not just meet client’s expectations, but to exceed them and leave customers feeling empowered in their own skin. Thérapie Clinic values trust, transparency and the best possible customer experience.

We are delighted to partner with this leading brand as the official beauty partner for our Win A £30,000 Wedding. The beauty industry leader is contributing £1,500 worth of advanced skin treatments to the winner. The ultimate skin package will include treatments of celebrity favourite Clear & Brilliant, Icon and Potenza for clear, smooth and radiant skin.

Northern Lights Event Hire & Fairytales Events & Wedding Specialists are offering a décor & entertainment package worth £5,000

Northern Lights Event Hire is an experienced event hire and management company that have received the accolades of Wedding Entertainment of the Year, Outstanding Wedding Supplier of the Year and Specialist Wedding Supplier of the Year at the Northern Ireland Wedding Awards over the past three years.

Fairytales Events & Wedding Specialists have been involved in the wedding & events industry for over 20 years and have played a part in delivering thousands of magical weddings throughout Northern Ireland and cross border counties.

In a unique collaboration, these sister companies can offer you a full décor and entertainment package that will help deliver the wedding of your dreams. This is your chance to personalise your celebrations and offer your guests an unforgettable experience as they celebrate with you.

Working together, these two comapnies will be able to supply you with an unforgettable backdrop that all your guests will be blown away by, beautifully crafted centrepieces that completely lift the ambience of the room and captivating wedding entertainment worthy of celebrating the best day of your life.

Orchid Bridal Studio is offering the winning bride bridalwear worth up to £4,000

Located in their beautifully decorated, timeless bridal studio just off Portadown’s main street and with over 20 years in the bridal industry, the team at Orchid Bridal Studio pride themselves in offering an exclusive one to one personal but professional service to all our brides.

The winning couple will be spoilt for choice when it comes to choosing an exquisite dress. Whatever your style preference the team at Orchid Bridal studio guarantee you will find the perfect dress amongst their collections. Brands stocked include award-winning bridal designers – Justin Alexander, Sincerity, Allure, Aire Barcelona, and more.

There are also stylish accessories to ensure that you achieve the finished look you’re after – tiaras, veils and other pieces designed to elevate the overall bridal look.

Just like every bride who chooses Orchid Bridal Studio, the winner will enjoy an individual appointment and during this time the team will be able to help and guide you when it comes to finding ‘the one’! They will take into account the theme and style of the wedding as well as personal preferences when it comes to the shape and style of gown. They are also on hand to recommend the styles they think would look fabulous on, but which you may not have even considered!

Freddie Hatchet is providing the winning groom with groomswear up to the value of £3,000

Freddie Hatchet is one of the few suit hire providers that actually source and manufacture its own range of suits. They take pride in sourcing only the finest fabrics from across the globe before having their suits made by some of Europe’s top tailoring manufacturers.

In their stores you will find suits that simply cannot be found anywhere else with all of their ranges exclusive to their own label. Plus, with over 100 years of combined experience in wedding tailoring, the team bring unrivaled expertise to choosing the looks you wear on your special day.

Within this prize, the winning groom will win four suit packages worth £750 each. Each suit package will include: Made To Order Suit: £500; Dress Shoes: £110; Tie & Pocket Square Set: £60; Tie Bar: £20; Cufflinks: £10; Lapel Pin: £10; Shirt: £40

Freddie Hatchet can offer grooms a selection of matching suits to either buy or hire. You could hire the suits for your groomsmen, but treat yourself and design your own suit with their personal tailoring service. Their ‘personal’ tailoring service offers the range of choice and personalisation normally associated with ‘Made To Measure’ tailoring but is regarded as being more budget friendly.

McWhirter The Jeweller are providing the winning couple with jewellery up to the value of £3,000

McWhirter the Jeweller is an independent family run business, situated in Newry City, founded by Godfrey and Muriel McWhirter in 1958. Their son Garry, guided by his parents, became educated on how to run a successful business. He gained extensive working knowledge of the technical aspects of creating and repairing jewellery. As Garry’s own family began to grow, his wife Carol and their two sons Lee and Ross, joined the business, thus creating a third generation of McWhirter the Jeweller.

In 2021, the shop relocated to Hill Street and their show room now has an extensive range of jewellery, both in unique, contemporary and exclusive brands of silver and gold. They carry a large selection of engagement and wedding rings, and offer a bespoke design service to meet the needs and requirements of every customer.

The winning couple will be able to choose their wedding rings or other suitable pieces for their wedding day with the expert help and guidance of this long-standing family jewellers in Newry town centre.

Tait Young Wedding Photo & Film is providing the winning couple with a photography and video package worth £3,500

Tait Young Wedding Photo & Film specialises in crafting unique and creative wedding films and photos, capturing the essence and beauty of every moment. With a dedicated team of three camera operators and multiple cameras, they ensure comprehensive coverage of the entire event, from the heartfelt vows to the joyous celebrations.

The winning couple will receive a comprehensive package that captures their day from start to finish from getting ready until the first dance! As well as photography, the winners will also receive a full-length wedding video and highlight reel.

What sets Tait Young apart is their commitment to creativity and innovation in wedding photography and videography. They go beyond traditional approaches, employing cutting-edge techniques and artistic vision to produce stunning visuals that truly reflect the love and emotion of the occasion.

Their skilled team understands that every couple is unique, and they tailor their approach to suit individual preferences and styles. Whether it’s a grand ceremony or an intimate gathering, Tait Young strives to capture the essence of the day in a way that resonates with each couple’s personality and story.

The honeymoon partner is to be revealed soon! Watch this space…

PURCHASE A TICKET ONLINE TO THE WEDDING JOURNAL SHOW AND YOU WILL BE AUTOMATICALLY ENTERED TO WIN A £30,000 WEDDING

The post WIN A £30,000 Wedding Package! appeared first on Wedding Journal.

Jael And Greg’s Chic City Wedding

Margaret Connolly — Thu, 11 Apr 2024 22:13:45 +0000

Jael and Greg’s wedding celebrations evolved from venues that conjured happy memories into a truly personalised, stylish celebration.

How did you meet?

Jael and Greg’s first encounter was at work in 2016. As Jael explains, ‘I harboured a secret crush on him for a while before he made the first move by asking me on a date. I was shamelessly late for our first date at General Merchants, Greg drank too much coffee waiting and was wired and instead of a first kiss I accidentally head butted him!’

Tell us about the proposal.

‘Greg proposed with his mum’s engagement ring, on a walk to the beach just before Christmas 2021.’

How did you find the planning?

‘We decided we would like a summer wedding, but beyond that we didn’t really know exactly what we wanted, explains Jael. ‘I had been at Parisien before on a Christmas do and thought it would be nice for a city wedding. Then we booked our photographer LIT photography. I had fallen in love with Lauren’s style and was willing to get married whenever she was available. So with a bit of jiggery pokery we found a date which worked with all of the above.

What venues did you choose and why?

’There is some uncertainty who actually suggested the Ulster Museum, both of us thinks it was the other. We met in South Belfast, and I went to Queen’s University and studied history so it felt very fitting. As I’ve mentioned we had our reception at Parisien Belfast, who made everything so easy. Everyone said it was the best wedding food ever and it was just so perfect for capturing the urban backdrops we wanted for the photos.’

Can you recommend any suppliers you worked with?

‘Every single one of our suppliers was just phenomenal, from our beautiful car via Star Car Hire, the most spectacular flowers from Bloom Barn, our delicious cake from Lily Pink Bakery and entertainment from the Groovesmen who started the party off right!

‘Our celebrant Stewart Holden is a dear friend and gave us so much help and guidance in planning for our ceremony. He took so much care in telling our story, and guests loved how personal the ceremony was, we are eternally grateful to him!

What did you wear?

’My dress was from Solace London, and I got it online from their website. I knew I didn’t want to spend a total fortune. That said, I wanted something chic and modern. Telfair Tailoring made it fit like a glove.

I wore lilac Miss Sabina shoes from Christian Louboutin and blue Swarovski earrings.

‘The rest of the bridal party wore a mix of high street from &Other Stories, ASOS, Abercrombie&Fitch and Reiss.

‘Greg wore a custom navy velvet dinner jacket from Freddie Hatchett, who couldn’t have been more hospitable or accommodating. Greg now thinks every shopping trip should come with a beer though!

Any favourite moments from the day?

‘Our wedding was the same day as Comic-Con; it really made me laugh when I ran into Princess Peach on the street wearing a much bigger dress than me!

‘The kids’ readings had me in floods of tears and the speeches were just amazing and so special. I wish we had them on video.’

Have you any advice to share with other couples planning their day?

‘Decide what matters to you both, in our case it was food and photography. Your wedding should be a day of celebrating you and your love, you aren’t like everyone else, why would your wedding be?’

Jael and Greg’s Dream Team

Photography: litphotographyni

Ceremony Venue: Ulster Museum

Reception Venue: Parisien Belfast

Celebrant: stewartholdenhumanistcelebrant

Flowers: bloom_barn

Cake: Lily Pink Bakery

Transport: starcarhire

Bridalwear: archive12

The post Jael And Greg’s Chic City Wedding appeared first on Wedding Journal.

A Memorable Day: Newlyweds Joanne & Ian Share Their Story

Margaret Connolly — Wed, 27 Mar 2024 11:12:50 +0000

Joanne Brownlee and Ian Warwick tied the knot on 22nd February of this year, enjoying a relaxed, memorable day with their friends & family.

I Do Date: 22.02.24

How did you two meet?

‘Ian and I first met at a wedding in May 2017. Knowing there was something special, Ian made the first move by becoming “friends” on social media! We then went on our first date on 22nd February 2019, when we found we had lots to chat about including farming and faith! From that evening the conversation has never stopped – we enjoyed each other’s company and looked forward to the next time we would meet up!’

Tell us about the proposal.

‘On my 23^rd birthday Ian proposed at Helen’s Bay beach. We had chatted many times about getting married, and the occasion was marked on this special day! I wouldn’t describe our engagement as romantic because the beach was bustling with a TV film crew recording a documentary series, as well as walkers, runners and people enjoying catchup with friends! Despite the chaos on the beach, it was a birthday to remember, and we had a great day!’

How did you find the planning process?

‘After our engagement we began researching wedding vendors, we planned the day with guidance and recommendations from friends and family who had recently got married. I often used Instagram and Pinterest for wedding inspiration! We had 18 months to plan the wedding which was ample time to ensure everything was complete.’

Where did you get married and why did you choose this venue?

‘We got married in my home church, Loughgall Presbyterian. For me this was a very special place as I grew up attending this church and have many precious memories. The location is suitable for a wedding as it holds approximately 150 people, accessible car parking and an idyllic spot for beautiful photos!’

Who were your wedding suppliers?

‘A special friend offered to create our bouquets, buttonholes and wrist corsage as a wedding gift. The remaining flowers in the church were created by Rose and Thorn in Co. Armagh. The florists collaborated and shared ideas to create beautiful designs that complemented each other and the flowers looked amazing!

‘The cake was designed and made by Homebaked by Susanne. We chose three flavours, raspberry and white chocolate, lemon and vanilla – it was fresh, light and tasted delicious!

‘Ruth Corry is a talented harpist who played for guests as they arrived at the reception. Ruth is incredibly talented and played the requested music so beautifully.

‘Embrace Socials provided evening entertainment for guests. During the evening celebration the group organised a range of social games, line dances, ceilidh dances and live music. We were delighted that our guests joined in on the entertainment!

‘Our stationery was created by Letter and Lime Design. After a consultation I was confident Amie would deliver on our stationery ideas. We were delighted with our invites and on the day stationery. The quality and design was excellent and many guests complimented the artistic design and quality!’

Who captured your day?

‘As a camera shy couple, Ian and I were quite apprehensive about being subject to smiling for the camera. However, Iain Irwin our photographer and Matthew Fields our videographer captured the day brilliantly, demonstrating professionalism. Iain and Matthew are separate business enterprises, yet worked as a team to create beautiful images and video content. So far, we have received “sneak peaks” of our photos and videos of which we are delighted – and are really looking forward to receiving the rest!’

What did you wear?

‘My wedding dress was designed by Luce Sposa and purchased from Ultimate Dresses, in Derry-Londonderry. It was a fitted flesh-coloured dress, decorated with handmade lace, embroidered beads and sequins. The coat was made of glitter mesh fabric and decorated with the same lace as the dress. A velvet belt with a bow was fastened at the waist.

‘The bridesmaids’ dresses were made from an ivory velvet material which complemented the ivory belt on the my bridal coat. Minor alterations were required on the bridesmaids dresses, the heavy material was suitable for a February wedding and kept the bridesmaids warm!

‘The navy three-piece suits and shoes were purchased from Nineteen83 Gentleman’s Fashion. The team in Dungannon measured and fitted the men with excellent attention to detail and made it enjoyable for the boys who usually try to avoid clothes shopping!’

What was your favourite moment from the day?

‘Our favorite moment was travelling from the church to the wedding reception venue! On the journey we were able to relax, chat and refresh on sandwiches and sweet treats, which were carefully packed for us.’

Do you have any advice for other couples planning their dream day?

‘We would advise any brides and grooms in the planning process to seek reputable suppliers who will be guaranteed to deliver on the day. It’s also a good idea to note down all the costs in a notebook or spreadsheet to keep track of your spending. And, most importantly, enjoy the planning and treasure the wedding day when it arrives!’

THE DREAM TEAM

Photographer: Iain Irwin Photography

Videographer: Matthew Fields Media

Venue: Culloden Estate & Spa

Wedding Dress: Ultimate Dresses

Groomswear: Nineteen83 Gentleman’S Fashion

Florist: Rose & Thorn

Stationery: Letter and Lime Design

Cake: Homebakedbysusanne

Music: Ruth Corry Wedding Harpist and Embrace Socials

Transport: Champagne Moments

The post A Memorable Day: Newlyweds Joanne & Ian Share Their Story appeared first on Wedding Journal.

WIN A Luxury Break At The Manor House Country Hotel (CLOSED)

Margaret Connolly — Fri, 22 Mar 2024 10:14:06 +0000

Could you be the lucky couple to win a luxury break for two nights in The Manor House Country Hotel in Co. Fermanagh? Enter Now!

The perfect mix of old world charm and modern luxury, The Manor House Country Hotel is regularly voted among the best wedding venues in Northern Ireland and you have the chance to see more of this potential wedding venue if you win this luxury break where you will also enjoy two 30 minute spa treatments as well!

Set on the shores of lower Lough Erne, this 18th Century grade 2 listed building is filled with stunning architectural details an opulent decor. So both indoors and out, there are countless opportunities to capture beautiful photographs of your special day.

At The Manor House Country Hotel, you can be guaranteed that your guests will be well taken care of. As family run business for over thirty years, it has built up a reputation for excellent service, delicious food and warm Fermanagh hospitality.

The Watergate Bar

The Reading Room

The Pool

Book in for a show around and you’ll have a chance to view the grand foyer, lavish ballroom, private drinks reception area, luxurious guest bedrooms, numerous bars and restaurants, spectacular honeymoon suite with panoramic views, and immaculate grounds with an impressive water fountain and gazebo. A stones throw from the hotel you can stand on the waters edge and admire the beautiful tranquility of Lough Erne.

The Manor House prides itself on attention to detail and going above and beyond to help couples realise their unique vision and create memories that will last a lifetime.

The Ballroom

The Lady of The Lake

‘The Lady of The Lake’, is a truly unique addition to a Manor House wedding. The fully licensed luxury cruiser offers a range of dining options and room for live music on board. A cruise on the lough is an extremely popular option for hen parties, stags and the second day of weddings.

So if you’re planning to get married, don’t hesitate to get in touch with the Manor House Country Hotel.

How To Enter

Fill in the form below
Follow @weddingingjournal
Follow @manorhousecountryhotel

All three criteria must be completed for your entry to be valid.

The competition closes on Monday 22nd April 2024.

T&C’s

The winner will be contacted on Tuesday 23rd April 2024.
Prize is two nights bed and breakfast, an evening meal on one night of your stay (supplements may apply) and two 30 minute spa treatments.
Booking is subject to availability and must be made via email with the wedding manager. Not valid during public holidays, Christmas and New Years.
No cash alternative.
Prize is not transferable.
Valid for 12 months until 30th April 2025.

You might also be interested in Winning A Wedding Dress From Sophia Tolli

The post WIN A Luxury Break At The Manor House Country Hotel (CLOSED) appeared first on Wedding Journal.

Rosie & Dott Wedding Day Accessory Giveaway (CLOSED)

Margaret Connolly — Tue, 19 Mar 2024 20:50:22 +0000

Rosie & Dott are giving one lucky bride the chance to win a selection of wedding day accessories worth over €200! And they haven’t forgotten about the bridesmaids too!

When Rosie & Dott creator and owner Siobhéal was planning her own wedding in 2019, she found it hard to find a one stop shop that had sparkly, beautiful, modern jewellery and accessories for an affordable price.

Having always been a huge lover of fashion and accessories, Siobhéal decided to take the plunge and launched her online business Rosie & Dott to offer others women like her beautiful finishing touches that would not cost a small fortune!

Based in Kildare, Ireland, we are delighted that this small accessory business has teamed up with Ireland’s Wedding Journal to give one lucky bag the chance to win an amazing accessory package which includes:

For The Bride:

1 x Gold Péarla Clutch, €39.99

Designed by Siobhéal, the pearls on this clutch bag are super secure, the clasps are durable, and there is a detachable heavy chain strap. It offers a pretty extra for brides to store all of those wedding day essentials!

1 x White Mini Travel Case, €14.99

Whether it’s time to travel to your wedding venue or to your honeymoon destination, or maybe you’re going on a nice weekend away and you need something small and handy to carry your sparkles safely in? With enough room to carry a couple of pairs of earrings, a ring or two and couple of bracelets and even some necklaces, this mini white travel case is ideal!

1 x Bowie Sunglasses, €29.99

Combining fashion forward design and UV protection, these sunglasses are the perfect wedding day and honeymoon accessory

1 x Gold Glitz & Glam Earrings, €24.99

A drop pearl with some sparkle and a touch of gold these earrings are a firm favourite and it’s easy too see way. They offer the perfect finishing touch for brides and once the day is over this timeless design can be worn again and again whatever the occasion.

Gold Glitz & Glam Earrings

Bowie Sunglasses

Gold Halo Bracelet

1 x Gold Halo Bracelet, €24.99

The Halo bracelet shines! It is so easy to wear and is another piece that Rosie & Dott struggle to keep in stock – a testament to just how beautiful these bracelets are!

For the Bridesmaids:

3 x Silver Double Pearl Studs, €24.99 each

These earrings are a stunning fusion of casual charm and dressed up elegance. They are so versatile and effortlessly transition from day to night, ensuring your best girls look great all day long!

See more from Rosie & Dott here

How To Enter

1. Fill in the form below

2. Follow @rosieanddott

3. Follow @weddingjournal

All three entry criteria must be met to be eligible.

Competion Closes on Wednesday 10th April 2024

T&Cs Apply

The prize is non-transferable
There are no cash or voucher alternatives.
The prize is as stated: 1 x Gold Péarla Clutch; 1 x White Mini Travel Case; 1 x Bowie Sunglasses; 1 x Gold Glitz & Glam earrings; 1 x Gold Halo Bracelet; 3 x Silver Double Pearl Studs
Wedding Journal will choose a winner at random and notify the winner of receipt of their prize within seven days. Once they are notified, if they don’t reply within 14 days a new winner will be chosen.

The post Rosie & Dott Wedding Day Accessory Giveaway (CLOSED) appeared first on Wedding Journal.

Sophia Tolli Wedding Dress Giveaway (CLOSED)

Margaret Connolly — Tue, 19 Mar 2024 10:08:00 +0000

One lucky bride will WIN a beautiful wedding dress worth £/€2,000 from the latest collection by Sophia Tolli Australia.

A fusion of modern romance and timeless elegance, the Sophia Tolli Australia collection is a celebration of diversity, femininity and individuality. Every gown is handcrafted with love and designed to leave a lasting impression.

The bridal gowns within the latest 2024 collection provide both classic and couture designs including strapless ball gowns, A-line dresses, halters and slim skirts. Wedding dresses with Sophia’s signature draping and corset backs provide an impeccable fit. ‘My collection has two distinct feelings: soft romanticism and traditional bridal drama. My signature style will always be gowns with an exceptional fit and cut,’ comments wedding dress designer Sophia Apostolides.

Style Y3141

Style Y3157

Style Y3140

For over a decade, Sophia Apostolides has been recognised as one of the bridal industry’s most talented designers, inspired by real women to create unforgettable designs that highlight your natural beauty and unique bridal style. A graduate of the Fashion Design Studio in her hometown of Sydney, Australia, Sophia is diverse in her creative approach to dressing women’s bodies, driven by the endless design possibilities that come with it.

Style Y3150SL

Having grown up surrounded by dressmakers, fabrics and sewing machines, Sophia knew from a young age that she was destined to be a designer. Throughout college she challenged traditional dressmaking techniques and her award-winning expertise in fit and construction is the result of both her higher education and experience in made-to-measure gowns.

Style Y3145F1

Style Y3156

The luxurious fabrics, fabulous fit, exquisite embellishments and attention to detail are all signature elements of Sophia’s design style. From classic lace looks to chic simplicity, there is something that celebrates every body shape and size.

Designed with love in Sydney, the Sophia Tolli bridal collection can be found in over 400 retailers worldwide. We look forward to sharing this incredible journey with you as we bring your dream dress to life.

To see more of the Sophia Tolli Australia Bridal Collections click here

COMPETITION

How To Enter:

Follow @sophiatolli on Instagram
Follow @weddingjournal on Instagram
Fill in the entry form below

NB. All three entry criteria must be completed or you will not be eligibale to win.

Closing Date: Thursday 18th April 2024

T&Cs

The competition is open to all brides to be throughout the island of Ireland.
There is no entry fee and no purchase necessary to enter this competition.
There must be at least seven months between the competition closing date and your wedding date.
The prize is non-transferable.
The prize is as stated – a wedding dress from Sophia Tolli Australia up to the value of £/€2,000. The winning bride can choose to spend more on her Sophia Tolli wedding dress, but would have to cover any additional costs over the stated amount of £/€2,000.
Wedding Journal will choose a winner at random and notify the winner of receipt of their prize within seven days. Once they are notified, if they don’t reply within 14 days a new winner will be chosen.
The winner must be prepared to travel to the allocated Sophia Tolli Australia stockist nearest them. Travel expenses will be the winner’s own.
Wedding Journal will keep in touch with both the winning bride and the manufacturer/designer to ensure receipt of the prize.
The bride will cover dress alteration costs.
The winner must be prepared to share photographs of them – approved by them – posted to social media by Sophia Tolli Australia and Wedding Journal. We would appreciate if the lucky winner could share a wedding photo wearing their dress from Sophia Tolli Australia.

Featured Image: Style Y3145

The post Sophia Tolli Wedding Dress Giveaway (CLOSED) appeared first on Wedding Journal.

Sleep, It’s What Every Bride Needs To Look Her Best!

Margaret Connolly — Thu, 14 Mar 2024 14:15:01 +0000

As Irish sleep expert Anne Marie Boyhan from The Sleep Care Company explains, there’s not a serum or moisturiser in the world that can replace a good night’s sleep.

‘There’s no point in spending lots on your skincare regime if you don’t have the foundations of great skin, and that is to get as much sleep as possible every night in the run up to your wedding day,’ explains Sleep Expert and Insomnia Consultant, Anne Marie Boyhan from The Sleep Care Company.

‘Actually priortise your sleep in the same way as you might when starting a new fitness regime or diet, and make it a priority in order to achieve a youthful, healthy, radiant complexion. Trust me, there’s not a moisturiser or serum in the world that can have the same impact a good night’s rest can on that face of yours!’

What Are The Beauty Benefits Of Good Sleep

1. Cortisol Regulates Itself

Getting a good night’s rest is a great way to slow down gravity and fine lines appearing. Your body perceives lack of sleep as a form of stress and responds by producing a hormone called cortisol. In addition to negative effects on the immune system and blood sugar levels, cortisol compromises the supportive collagen in our skin, which leads to premature signs of aging like fine lines, wrinkles and loss of elasticity. The presence of cortisol also causes blood vessels to constrict, which reduces the amount of oxygen and nutrients the skin receives, in turn making it look dull and sallow.

2. Healthy Looking Hair

Hair loss, breakage, damage, and even growth can all be affected by lack of sleep. Your hair follicles increase in nutrients, vitamins, and minerals from blood flow, but blood flow decreases when we’re short on sleep, therefore good sleep will improve the condition of your hair.

3. Greater Results From Your Skincare

During sleep your skin doesn’t have to battle against the sun and free radicals, so it can concentrate on repairing itself. Blood flow is also more consistent, and this helps your skin benefit from the flesh-repairing ingredients in your beauty products.

4. Your Eyes Will Sparkle

Blood flow to the rescue again! By getting adequate rest, you encourage blood flow to the face, thereby reducing or preventing those nasty dark rings. When you don’t get enough sleep and the circulation in your face decreases, blood can pool in the under-eye area, making those circles appear and become more pronounced.

Photograph by Cottonbro Studio

The Importance Of Bed Time

Anne Marie advises being asleep by 10.30pm, because the 90 minutes before midnight is one of the most powerful phases of sleep, because it’s the period where the body is replenished.

‘Lights out by 10pm makes a difference,’ explains Anne Marie. ‘During sleep you produce a hormone that affects brain function and mood as well as physical endurance and immunity. It also increases skin elasticity, stimulates fat burning, and increases muscle mass and bone density. The really good news is that you can increase your production of this hormone by a factor of fivefold depending on when you go to sleep. Peak hours for producing this hormone are between 10.30pm and midnight. So if you want to optimise production of the hormone that enhances your immunity and strengthens your mind, body, and youthful radiance, whenever possible, go to bed no later than 10pm.

Switch To Silk

‘The benefits of a good night’s sleep for your beauty routine are further aided with the use of a silk pillow. Sleeping on silk has many benefits for our hair, not just in style longevity but general health and appearance. Traditional bedding draws moisture from our hair while we sleep and in extreme cases can cause thinning and dried out follicles. The Silk Pillowcase is an Irish brand of silk pillowcases which are 22 Momme and 100% Mulberry silk and this added luxury makes your sleeping hours the very best you can get for your hair,’ recommends Anne Marie.

‘Look at silk as an insurance policy to continue to maintain the work you already put into your keeping your crowning glory at its best,’ adds Anne Marie.

Develop Your Own Sleep Ritual

‘The science behind the benefits of mindfulness and meditation keeps on coming in, with studies now showing both can help to fight off insomnia and improve sleep quality. By simply slowing your breathing and bringing your attention to the here and now for a few minutes before bed, you’ will let go ‘ll be able to let go of all those niggly things taking up space in your brain that preventing you from sleeping.

‘Other rituals include taking off your make-up, putting on your night cream, reading a book, ditching the booze in favour of a herbal tea and listening to a white noise machine. Find a practice or product that works for you and helps you wind down before bed.

The Night Before Your Wedding

Avoid booze, this will disrupt your sleep and leave you with bags under your eyes and undo all that skin restoration and skincare you’ve been diligent about for months. Instead have what is known as the ‘sleepy girl mocktail’ – magnesium bisglycinate, tart cheery juice and sparkling water.

It goes without saying, you need to be in bed by 10pm to be asleep by 10.30pm! (See above)

If you’re very nervous, use l ‘theanine or magnesium bisglycinate as a calming and sleep inducing aid before bed.

Anne Marie Boyhan, Certified sleep expert, certified sleep science coach functional diagnostic nutrition practitioner. Photography by Kieran Harnett

For more information on how to get a good night’s sleep vist The Sleep Care Company or follow for tips on Instagram @thesleepcarecompany

The post Sleep, It’s What Every Bride Needs To Look Her Best! appeared first on Wedding Journal.

Fashion Advice for Mothers of the Bride & Groom

Margaret Connolly — Wed, 06 Mar 2024 16:05:15 +0000

Three Irish stylists share their invaluable fashion advice with mothers of the bride and groom in order that they look and feel their best on the wedding day.

Orla Sheridan, Orla Sheridan Private Styling

Orla is best known for her sustainable fashion advice when it comes to shopping and curating a wardrobe with pieces that you will wear time and time again! ‘The outfit you choose to wear as the mother of the bride or groom isn’t necessarily going to offer you 30 plus wears, but certainly you can shop for a look that can be reworked for other suitable occasions,’ comments Orla.

Orla Sheridan

‘I would also recommend boutiques like Havana in Dublin, Samui in Cork and Les Jumelles in Galway to see what they might have for the wedding day and also for all of those other occasions you will be attending in the run up to the
actual wedding itself, plus any day two celebrations.

‘If your budget allows, the designers I would recommend include Louise Kennedy, Roland Mouret, Victoria Beckham, Vampire’s Wife, 16 Arlington and Erderm. In particular, I would advise clients looking for a dress for an occasion to try one
of Louise Kennedy’s cape-style dresses.

‘Remember, that a few well chosen accessories can elevate or change the look of what you are wearing,’ adds Orla, who wouldn’t rule out shopping for your outfit from certain high street stores. ‘Some more reasonable priced brands to consider may be Claudie Pierlot, Sandro, Self Portrait and Massimo Dutti, who offer some really well-priced, quality pieces that you can wear in your own unique way. This allows you to be savvy with your budget and still get the look you are after.’

Máirín Ní Bheacháin, MoStyle

Máirín is very familiar with clients approaching her with the request – ‘I don’t want to look like mother of the bride!’ As she comments, ‘Women in their sixties and seventies are more stylish these days and want to embrace their own personal style.

Máirín Ní Bheacháin, photographed by Andres Poveda

‘Also, people aren’t dressing up as much as they used to for weddings and mothers of the bride and groom want a more pared back look too,’ adds Máirín, who tends to take clients to stores that stock Irish designers to invest in pieces that can be worn on the day of the wedding, but then mixed and matched and reworn again. ‘Nowadays, people are more and more conscious of the environment and sustainability and do want to have longevity from their wardrobe,’ she adds.

‘When it comes to giving fashion advice and choosing the accessories that elevate your outfit, there are so many Irish accessory designers to choose from, including Jenny Vander and Vivien Walsh. If the traditional hat or fascinator isn’t you, an elegant oversized headband is a stylish, contemporary alternative. As for shoes, comfort is key! Invest in a comfortable pair of kitten or block heels that you can walk – and dance in!

‘Investing in a personal stylist for this occasion offers a really good opportunity to take stock of what you have and to take a moment to think about your style going forward,’ advises Máirín. ‘A stylist will not only make finding your wedding day outfit easier and more enjoyable, but will also be able to assist with looks for the hen party, day two celebrations and more, ensuring you look and feel your best at all times.’

Nuala McMenamin, Adorn Bespoke Styling

Nuala is also familiar with offering fashion advice and helping mothers of the bride and groom be true to their style and still look the part. ‘I work with a lot of women who have lost sight of what suits them, dressing for functionality as they run around after children and grandchildren over the years. Then, when it comes to an occasion like this when they have to step up and be seen, they don’t want to look like ‘mutton dressed as lamb’.

Nuala McMenamin

‘It’s not about following trends, it’s about understanding what suits you and what you feel comfortable in. I enjoy working with clients to help them regain their sense of style with this in mind. When it comes to shopping for their wedding look, unlike relatives or their daughter, I will view them with much more potential as we decipher what will work and what won’t,’ adds Nuala.

‘I had one client who was recommended to contact me after she bought an outfit for a wedding with the intention of losing weight to fit into it. She was hesitant because she thought I would take her out of her comfort zone, which day-to-day was trousers and an oversized shirt. A size 14-16 she couldn’t see her own potential. I dressed her in a lovely pair of cigarette pants and a brocade jacket, and she not only looked good, but felt great too – which is really what it is all about!

‘Investing in yourself by enlisting the help of a stylist is never going to be a waste of money,’ adds Nuala. ‘We have a wide knowledge of all the brands to suit your budget, shape, style and the occasion. Whether an elegant jumpsuit, a maxi dress, an outfit for one day or a week’s wardrobe for a destination wedding, a stylist will help you walk with confidence in whatever you’re wearing.’

Style 66510 from John Charles

Louise Kennedy Aura Dress

Style 66543 from John Charles

Pink Trouser Suit from Ella Boo

Style 29134 from John Charles

Hat from a selection by Grainne Maher Millinery

Featured Image: Style 29145 from John Charles

The post Fashion Advice for Mothers of the Bride & Groom appeared first on Wedding Journal.

Mother’s Day Gifts – Beautyful Ideas!

Margaret Connolly — Wed, 06 Mar 2024 15:10:59 +0000

With Mother’s Day fast approaching this Sunday, here are a selection of beauty gifts that your mum will love to receive.

Skincare Surprises

Give the gift of glowing skin this Mother’s Day with a one of these must-have skincare products. The Skinician Advanced Pro-Radiance Enzyme Cleanser is a very quick, easy and effective way to introduce mild daily exfoliation into your routine and combined with the Haumea Sonic Facial Brush, this is the perfect starting point for glowing skin. To keep skin moisturised Pestle & Mortar’s award-winning Pure Hyaluronic Serum comes highly recommended as does the IMAGE I Mask and Dr Sam’s Flawless Brightly promises a radiant glow all day long! Last, but by no means least, your mum will also love Ultraceuticals Ultra Hydrating Skin Mist for a soothing and hydrating spritz throughout the day.

SKINICIAN Advanced Pro-Radiance Enzyme Cleanser, £29

Haumea Smart Sonic Facial Brush, €99.99

Ultraceuticals Ultra Hydrating Skin Mist, 150ml, £38.50

Pestle & Mortar Pure Hyaluronic Serum, €43

IMAGE I MASK Hydrating Hydrogel Sheet Mask (5 pack), £45/€52.50

Dr Sam’s Flawless Brightly 10% Azelaic Acid Serum, £46

Make-up Bag Must-Haves

Whether daily use or occasional, hero make-up products are always a treat as well as a useful addtion in the make-up bag. Poco Beauty’s Lip Oil Treatment is super hydrating and offers instant results whether on its own or over a lipstick. A nude shade is always so wearable and Lancôme L’Absolu Rouge Intimatte Blushing Nudes collection offers 13 shades to suit every skin tone. For lips and cheeks, Ayu Cosmetic’s Sheer Cream Blush adds an instant glow to your complexion and is ideal for creating a natural looking glow.Why not introduce your mum to The Brow Blade from Brow Aid? The ultimate in brow styling, it simplifies your routine and gives you flawless brows in just a few steps. Or give the gift of longer lashes! L’Oréal Paris’ new Panorama Mascara gives corner-to-corner, panoramic volume with lashes that are so fanned out that eyes look four times bigger!

Poco Beauty Lip Oil Treatment, €21

Lancôme L’Absolu Rouge Intimatte Blushing Nudes #220 French Blush, €37

Ayu Cosmetics Sheer Cream Blush, £17.45/€20

The Brow Blade from Brow Aid, £29

L’Oréal Panorama Mascara by Volume Million
Lashes, €16.95

Body Beautifers

Why not treat your mum to a hydrating body moisturiser. As well as offering smooth silky skin, HydraBody from Sculpted by Aimee also comes in stylish packaging and could be combined with other products from the brand for the perfect gift. For mums who like to have a radiant, flawless glow, He-Shi Day to Day Gradual Tan would be the perfect present. Perfect for fair to medium skin tones, this multipurpose gradual tanner can be used to achieve a lighter tan or as a daily moisturiser to extend the life of an existing tan. When it comes to hands, L’Occitane’s iconic hand cream is celebrating it’s 30th birthday this year! With one sold every three seconds, this is definitely a must-have if your mum isn’t already a convert.

Sculpted by Aimee HydraBody Body Moisturising Cream, £22/€26

He-Shi Day to Day Gradual Tan, £16.50

L’Occitane Shea Butter Hand Cream 150ml, £22

Fragrant Offerings For Mother’s Day

Who doesn’t appreciate a new bottle of perfume on Mother’s Day? Whether a new or existing fragrance that your mum loves, treat her to a scented bottle of a delicious fragrance. Below are a selection of some that we think she will love…

Jo Malone Rose Amber Cologne, 50ml, £86

YSL Black Opium Over Red Eau de Parfum, 30ml, €90

Armani Stronger With You Absolutely Eau de Parfum, 50ml, €79

Stories No. 2 Eau de Parfum, 30ml, £75/€88.95

Viktor&Rolf Flowerbomb Tiger Lily 50ml, €115

Lancôme La Nuit Trésor Le Parfum 50ml, €107

Whatever you choose to gift your mum this Mother’s Day, just remember because it comes from you she will love it!

Featured image: Photography by George Dolgikh

The post Mother’s Day Gifts – Beautyful Ideas! appeared first on Wedding Journal.

It’s Time To Talk Leap Year Proposals!

Margaret Connolly — Wed, 28 Feb 2024 15:45:25 +0000

If you’re thinking of popping the question, Wedding Journal chats leap year proposals with Donna Cunningham, Galgorm Wedding Planner.

Have you seen many leap year proposals take place at Galgorm? Tell us about one that stood out for you?

Over the years, we’ve witnessed several leap year proposals from both our guests and our employees, each unique to the couple’s style and romanticism. While some seize the opportunity to “take the leap” on this special day, others view February 29th as an extraordinary occasion, an additional day to celebrate and commit to their love for one another. For many, leap year proposals embody the exceptional nature of their relationship, symbolic of their individuality as a pair.

Choosing the perfect setting for a proposal is a deeply personal and significant decision, and at Galgorm, we understand the importance of curating a moment that lasts a lifetime. Galgorm exudes romance at every turn, making it an unrivalled choice for crafting your unforgettable proposal.

Many leap year proposals have graced our serene riverside, surrounded by lush greenery and the soothing sounds of nature. We’ve had the pleasure of helping individuals meticulously craft their own unique love story – from private bathing experiences under the stars to exclusive dining setups with picturesque views, each corner of Galgorm is a canvas for love stories. We can’t give too much away (just in case we ruin the surprise), but the team has been working closely with a very special guest who is building up the courage to pop the question this Thursday 29th February on the grounds of Galgorm.

Our dedicated team take great pride in helping couples turn their dreams into reality – personalising every detail, from selecting the perfect spot to arranging thoughtful touches that capture the essence of a couple’s relationship and makes their leap year proposal an intimate and cherished memory.

With its luxurious accommodations, world-class amenities, and a commitment to creating extraordinary moments, Galgorm Resort stands as a testament to the art of curating proposals.

What’s your thoughts on the Irish tradition of females proposing on the leap year? What advice would you give a female looking to propose to their partner this leap year?

The Irish tradition of females proposing on the leap year is a charming and empowering custom that adds a touch of uniqueness. At Galgorm Resort, we embrace the rich tapestry of traditions that make each love story special, and the leap year proposal tradition is no exception.

This tradition, rooted in folklore and history, symbolises a break from convention and empowers women to take the lead in expressing their love. For any female contemplating a leap year proposal, my advice would be to embrace the opportunity wholeheartedly. The key to a successful proposal lies in authenticity and personalisation. Consider what makes your relationship special – shared interests, or unique quirks – and incorporate these elements into the proposal.

Remember, there’s no one-size-fits-all approach to proposals. Be true to yourself and your relationship, and don’t be afraid to add personal touches that resonate with both of you. Whether it’s a heartfelt letter, a significant piece of music, or a special location within our resort, make the moment uniquely yours.

Do you find that couples are breaking away from traditional proposals in general? Are there any specific trends that stand out?

We have witnessed a shift in the way couples approach proposals, with many choosing to break away from conventional traditions. At Galgorm, we embrace and celebrate this evolving trend, understanding that each couple is unique and desires a proposal experience that reflects their individuality.

Couples are increasingly prioritising personalisation, opting for proposals that are a true reflection of their love story. From selecting distinct and meaningful locations on our picturesque grounds to incorporating personalised details, such as favourite songs, shared memories, or cultural elements, the emphasis is on creating an intimate and unforgettable moment.

One noticeable trend is the move towards experiences over tradition. Couples are seeking memorable adventures and shared activities as a backdrop to their proposal. Whether it’s a private picnic by the river, a stroll through our chandelier garden or a romantic spa retreat, the focus is on crafting a unique and cherished memory.

At Galgorm, we are committed to assisting couples in realising their vision for a personalised and memorable proposal. Our team is here to provide guidance, suggest unique settings within our resort, and help curate an experience that captures the essence of their relationship.

The post It’s Time To Talk Leap Year Proposals! appeared first on Wedding Journal.

AL Bridal Couture Wedding Dress Giveaway (CLOSED)

Margaret Connolly — Fri, 16 Feb 2024 13:42:42 +0000

One lucky reader has the chance to WIN an exquisite wedding dress design from AL Bridal Couture worth £2,200/€2,600.

AL Bridal Couture is an Irish born brand created by Audra Levinskaite. The brand offers a truly special made to measure service in their Dublin atelier.

This service not only gives you the option to customise any dress to your specific requirements, but to have your dress made on you from start to finish.

Each dress is made in the real sense of what couture ‘made to measure’ means. The skilled team take measurements, make calico paterns and cut and sew your silk fabric on you. ‘We offer a genuine authentic ‘made to measure’ service, where we think you deserve nothing more than excellence,’ comments brand founder Audra Levinskaite.

AL Bridal Couture designs are luxurious, sophisticated and timeless. Any bride who chooses a dress from them will truly enjoy a one of a kind experience. The bride is very much part of the creative process and will see their dream dress come to reality right before their eyes.

‘Each silhouette is designed to drape with elegance, but to also offer a refreshing and modern balance to appeal to all our fashion-forward brides,’ adds Audra, who goes on to explain, ‘Hidden structures and the highest quality fabrics are all chosen and designed carefully and with great intention to make you feel at your absolute best.’

Rose by AL Bridal Couture

To see more wedding dress designs from AL Bridal Couture click here and to book an appointment email: Albridalcouture@gmail.com

COMPETITION

How To Enter:

Follow @albridalcouture on Instagram
Follow @weddingjournal on Instagram
Fill in the form below

NB. All three entry criteria must be completed or you will not be eligible to win.

Closing Date: Monday 18th March 2024

T&Cs

The competition is open to all brides to be throughout the island of Ireland.
There is no entry fee and no purchase necessary to enter this competition.
There must be at least seven months between the competition closing date and your wedding date.
The prize is non-transferable.
The prize is as stated – a wedding dress designed by AL Bridal Couture up to the value of £2,200/€2,600. An example of a wedding dress design to the value is ‘Rose’ as show above. The bride can choose to spend more on her AL Bridal Couture dress, but would have to cover any additional costs over the stated amount of £2,200/€2,600 by herself.
Wedding Journal will choose a winner at random and notify the winner of receipt of their prize within seven days. Once they are notified, if they don’t reply within 14 days a new winner will be chosen.
The winner must be prepared to locate and travel to AL Bridal Couture. Travel expenses will be the winner’s own.
Wedding Journal will keep in touch with both the winning bride and the manufacturer/designer to ensure receipt of the prize.
The bride will cover dress alteration costs.
The winner must be prepared to share photographs of them – approved by them – posted to social media by AL Bridal Couture and Wedding Journal. We would appreciate if the lucky winner could share a wedding photo wearing their dress from AL Bridal Couture.

Featured image: The Rose wedding dress design from AL Bridal Couture.

The post AL Bridal Couture Wedding Dress Giveaway (CLOSED) appeared first on Wedding Journal.

Leap Year Romance – It’s Time To Propose!

Margaret Connolly — Fri, 02 Feb 2024 12:21:04 +0000

Calling all ladies out there who want to make the most of this Leap Year and surprise your partners with a marriage proposal!

Leap year, that rare occurrence happening once every four years, brings with it a unique tradition that empowers women to take the lead when it comes to a marriage proposal! Leap year proposals have captivated hearts and minds for centuries, offering an opportunity for women to break free from societal norms and express their love in a bold and unconventional way. Here we delve into the history, significance, and modern-day celebration of leap year proposals.

Unveiling the Tradition
Leap year proposals trace their roots back to an old Irish legend, where St. Bridget complained to St. Patrick about women having to wait too long for their suitors to propose. In response, St. Patrick declared that on leap day, women were granted the privilege to propose to men. This tradition has since spread across cultures, empowering women to seize the moment and declare their love on this special day.

Rewrite The Rules
Leap year proposals offer a chance to rewrite the rules of love and celebrate the power of taking risks, encouraging women to take charge of their own destiny and pop the question! By embracing this tradition, couples can create a memorable experience that defies expectations and gives them something to talk about for years to come.

Modern-Day Celebrations
In today’s world, leap year proposals have evolved into creative and personalised gestures. From elaborate surprise proposals to intimate and heartfelt moments, couples are finding unique ways to celebrate this tradition. Social media platforms are abuzz with stories of leap year proposals, showcasing the joy and excitement that comes with taking that leap of faith.

Tips for a Memorable Proposal
1. Plan Ahead: Carefully plan your proposal, ensuring it aligns with your partner’s preferences and interests.
2. Personalise the Moment: Incorporate elements that hold special meaning for your relationship, such as revisiting the place where you first met or incorporating shared hobbies or interests.
3. Seek Support: Enlist the help of friends and family to add an extra touch of magic to your proposal.
4. Capture the Moment: Consider hiring a photographer or videographer to immortalise the occasion, allowing you to relive the magical moment for years to come!

Whether you’re a traditionalist or a modern romantic, embracing this tradition can create a truly unforgettable moment in your love story. So this year ladies, let your heart guide you and take that leap of faith as you ask for his hand in marriage!

The post Leap Year Romance – It’s Time To Propose! appeared first on Wedding Journal.

WIN A Romantic Short Break For Two (CLOSED)

Margaret Connolly — Thu, 01 Feb 2024 11:22:35 +0000

Killyhevlin Lakeside Hotel & Lodges in Co. Fermanagh are offering one lucky couple the chance to win a romantic short break for two.

To celebrate the completion of a £250,000 refurbishment project of the flagship Wedding Suite at Killyhevlin Lakeside Hotel & Lodges, Ireland’s Wedding Journal has teamed up with the leading Co. Fermanagh hotel to give readers the chance to win a romantic short break for two!

This fabulous prize includes a luxury two night break in the new Lakeside Studios, including a Full Cooked Breakfast each morning, four-course dinner in the Lakeside Grill on the evening of your choice, an Elemis treatment per person at Kalm Spa and full use of Killyhevlin Health Club featuring an indoor swimming pool, sauna, steam room, Jacuzzi, outdoor Lakeview hot tub and gym.

The Lisgoole Suite boasts a dedicated arrival reception area and capacity to host up to 350 guests, new elegant and modern interiors, a private outdoor terrace with stunning views of the Fermanagh Lakeland’s making it the dream venue for your special day.

The Lisgoole Suite

The refurbishment project included stunning new furnishings, carpets, fireplace, bespoke art deco inspired window screens and new feature lighting. The new elegant modern interiors are complimented by the floor to ceiling windows which offer natural daylight and inspiring panoramic views of Lough Erne, leading onto a private furnished exterior terrace area.

No matter how grand or intimate wedding you wish your special day to be, the Killyhevlin’s highly professional standards of service will ensure your wedding reception will be inspirational.

Image courtesy of Sharon Kee Photography

The picturesque lakeside setting on the banks of Lough Erne is the venue of dreams, with beautiful landscaped gardens and terraces with spectacular views.

To learn more about celebrating your wedding at Killyhevlin Lakeside Hotel visit www.killyhevlin.com/weddings

To be in with the chance of winning this romantic short break:

JOIN HELP – Plan My Wedding!
LIKE & SHARE THE POST

You must complete both steps of the entry criteria to be eligible to win.

Prize Includes:

2 Night Luxury Lakeland Studio Stay for Two People

Full Cooked Breakfast Each Morning

4 Course Dinner, Lakeside Grill (on the evening of your choice)

Luxury Elemis Treatment Per Person at Kalm Spa

Use of Killyhevlin Health Club featuring Indoor Swimming Pool, Sauna, Steam Room, Jacuzzi, Outdoor Lakeview Hot Tub and Gym.

COMPETITION CLOSES: Friday 9th February 2024 at 12 noon.

T&Cs Apply

Prize valid for Lakeland Studio Stay only and is non-transferable. Valid for midweek stay (Sunday -Thursday) from Jan – June 2024 and is subject to availability. Exclusion dates apply – Bank Holidays, Easter. Valid for 2 adults sharing. Prize excludes all beverages.

The post WIN A Romantic Short Break For Two (CLOSED) appeared first on Wedding Journal.

Detachable Sleeves Make A Stylish Addition

Margaret Connolly — Wed, 31 Jan 2024 16:30:42 +0000

Detachable sleeves are all the rage when it comes to your wedding day look. Whether large and voluminous or small and subtle, these statement making arm dressings will effortlessly switch up your look.

Milan from Donna Salado

If you are drawn to that 80s voluminous puff sleeve then Milan from Donna Salado is the perfect choice for you. We love that when worn, these detachable sleeves only enhance the beautifully flattering rushed bodice of this dress, which would look equally as impressive should you decide to switch up your look and remove them between the ceremony and wedding reception.

Zante from Ronald Joyce

Zante from Ronald Joyce harkens to 70s inspired boho styling with its detachable voluminous sheer bell sleeves. Featuring a floral vine bodice, this wedding dress is perfect for modern brides who want a romantic style with a bit of sass! These addition sleeves would work perfectly for weddings at home or away in warmer Mediterranean climates!

Style VL5 from Berta

Berta is a brand well known for its sexy bridal styles and this stunning corset dress with on-trend thigh split and silver sparkle doesn’t disappoint. Detachable fingerless glove style sleeves pair perfectly with this dress style and offer another option for any bride wanting to indulge in the sleeve trend in 2024.

Beria from Aire Barcelona

You will definitely feel like a princess in this A-line wedding dress from Aire Barcelona. Crafted in tulle embellished with lace and beadwork, it features a strapless neckline, open back and draped straps – perfect for brides who don’t wish to have that full sleeve look.

Featured Image: Yanis from Victoria Jane. This is a dramatic yet elegant chiffon wedding dress with cape sleeves and beaded lace accents. Featuring a contemporary exposed structured bodice and open back to create a romantic boho bridal style.

The post Detachable Sleeves Make A Stylish Addition appeared first on Wedding Journal.

11 Entertaining Ideas For Your Guests

Margaret Connolly — Tue, 23 Jan 2024 15:24:37 +0000

Bring your wedding day to life and treat your guests to the ultimate experience at your chosen venue with these 11 entertaining ideas.

1. Bespoke Bubbles

First on our list of 11 entertaining ideas, is to create a warm welcome with a personalised, statement-making champagne wall. This is an impressive addition and allows your guests to grab a glass of fizz and start mingling.

Champagne wall by Champagne Memories

2. Shaken Not Stirred

If you are planning on serving a signature cocktail or two at your wedding why not make it entertaining with a mixologist onsite adding a bit of theatrical flair to your drinks reception or how about an after dinner Espresso Martini Bar as catered by Foxglove Cocktail Co. for Caoimhe and Andrew’s wedding in Inishbeg, Co. Cork.

Image courtesy of Foxglove Cocktail Co.

3. A Touch of Magic

Add some fun and excitement at your reception with acts such as award-winning mentalist and mind-reader Shane Black. This magical additions provide a great ice breaker for guests who don’t know each other.

Image courtesy of Shane Black

4. Bring The Drama

If budget allows, why not add some drama and get the party started at your evening reception with a dramatic musical performance by an act such as The Hit Machine Drummers.

The Hit Machine Drummers

5. Artful Addition

Another entertaining ice breaker, hiring a caricaturist, such as Niall O’Loughlin from caricature.ie will also leave your guests with a cherished memento of your special day.

Image courtesy of cariacutures.ie

6. Fun & Games

Wedding games are a great way to encourage interaction, especially if you are having a two day celebration. From traditional lawn games such as crochet or boules or table games like Jenga and Connect Four, guests of all ages will be suitable entertained.

Mandalay Weddings & Events have a selection of lawn games for hire

7. For The Kids

Perfect for children attending your wedding, you can download colouring mats for their place-settings or create a kids station with colouring books and pens to keep them entertained throughout the reception. Also don’t underestimate the entertainment provides by some bubbles!

Downloadable Wedding Kids Activity Colouring Mat

8. Sweet Treats

Providing a decorative addition to your reception as well as offering a sweet treats for guests of all ages, a candy cart is definitely worth the indulgence!

9. A Big Hit

Another way to offer your wedding guests a sugar hit is with a wedding day piñata! If you are hosting an outdoor celebration in a woodland setting, you could hang a few from the trees – just check this is permitted by your wedding venue in advance.

Heart Piñata, £20, Etsy

10. Say Cheese!

A photo booth is always a real hit at a wedding reception and can be customised to suit the style of your wedding day. As Amy Titmus from Retrosight Photography comments, ‘What I love about my booth is customising the backdrop to suit each wedding, so that it adds to the aesthetic and décor that couples and venues work hard to create. It’s very satisfying to see it tie in beautifully! Then of course there’s the classic photo strip mementos that guests take home, again designed carefully to tie in with the style of the wedding.’

The Good Times Photo Booth from Retrosight Photography

11. Light Up

Who doesn’t love a firework display? Treating guests to this experience – if possible at your venue – will provide a show-stopping finale to your celebrations. If fireworks blow the budget, then consider a sparkler send-off!

Featured Image: Photo by KEREM KSLR

The post 11 Entertaining Ideas For Your Guests appeared first on Wedding Journal.

Why 2024 Is Peachy For Bridesmaids!

Margaret Connolly — Tue, 23 Jan 2024 12:27:36 +0000

Embrace Pantone’s Colour of the Year – Peach Fuzz – a velvety, gentle peach that is perfect for your bridesmaids and a romantic colour theme for your wedding day.

The official colour of the year, PANTONE 13-1023 Peach Fuzz is an appealing peach hue softly nestled between pink and orange. Poetic and romantic, a clean peach tone with a vintage vibe, PANTONE 13-1023 Peach Fuzz reflects the past yet has been refashioned with a contemporary ambience.

While it is intended for use in every aspect so four lives, when it comes to fashion and accessories, this nurturing peach tone inspires us to instinctively want to reach out and touch. Conveying a message of tactility that comes through in sueded, velvety, quilted, and furry textures, luxuriously soothing and soft to the touch, PANTONE 13-1023 Peach Fuzz is an enveloping peach hue that awakens our senses to the comforting presence of tactility and cocooned warmth.

Peach is an incredibly flattering colour and while pastel shades are long associated with spring/summer weddings, peach can effortlessly add a glow up to autumnal celebrations too! Bridesmaids dresses in this soft, romantic hue, can be complemented with subtle peach accessories worn by the whole bridal party. Think ties, pocket squares and jacket linings for the boys and the bride could opt for peach-toned shoes or with peach-toned eyeshadow and/or lipstick.

A contemporary peach with depth whose gentle lightness is understated, Peach Fuzz 13-1023 adds an ethereal, reflective finish to hair and creates a natural rosy glow flattering complexions across a large variety of undertones. A surprisingly versatile shade, it enlivens the skin, adding soft warmth to eyes, lips, and cheeks making all who wear it appear more healthy. Fresh and youthful when paired with earthy browns and dramatic when paired with deep reds and plums, it opens the door to a wide assortment of lipstick, blush, skin tone, and contouring options. Nail designs incorporating Peach Fuzz 13-1023 are romantic, innocent, and sweet.

Style 21855 from Morilee

This beautiful bridesmaid dress from Morilee reflects the trend for the corset top and sweetheart neckline this season. The ruched cap sleeves are detachable and the split ticks another of 2024’s key bridal trends.

L-R: Lana Whipped Peach Maxi Bridesmaid Dress, £89, SilkFred & Ivy from Romantica

There are many shades of peach and your bridesmaids may prefer to go lighter or darker than the Pantone Peach Fuzz shade. Lana from SilkFred offers a Grecian style vibe and has a flattering ruched waist. Ivy from Romantica is another flattering A-line style and we love the keyhole detailing in the high neckline, which is also reflected on the back of the dress. Both of these styles are super flattering, elegant and feminine.

Keisha Maxi Dress, £59.50, Pretty Lavish

This dress is made from a stunning peach matte satin based material that features a flattering cowl neck and drapes beautifully to the floor. Pair your bridesmaids in our other matte peach options for the ultimate mix and match look.

One Shoulder Satin Ruched Bridesmaid Dress in Burnt Peach, £120, Six Stories

This one shoulder dress is one that your girls will feel amazing in. Revealing some skin, it is cinched at the waist to achieve a figure-flattering silhouette!

Not forgetting about the bride – we’ve a fantastic wedding dress giveaway with Romantica! Enter Here…

Featured Image: Bridesmaids Dresses from Romantica

The post Why 2024 Is Peachy For Bridesmaids! appeared first on Wedding Journal.

Win A Wedding Dress From Romantica (CLOSED)

Margaret Connolly — Wed, 17 Jan 2024 14:50:41 +0000

One lucky reader has the chance to WIN a wedding dress with Romantica Collections up to the value of £/€2,000.

Bridal brand Romantica of Devon is a cherished family-run British business, Romantica takes pride in curating an exquisite collection of wedding dresses that transcends traditional boundaries. Their experienced design team, committed to achieving unrivalled standards, meticulously crafts each gown to be a manifestation of contemporary elegance and timeless allure.

2024_romantica_annika from Romantica Of Devon on Vimeo.

At Romantica, they believe that a wedding dress is not just an ensemble; it is a profound statement of style and personality, an embodiment of the romantic journey about to unfold. Their ultra-stylish collection is a testament to this philosophy, ensuring that every bride discovers a gown that resonates with her unique personality.

L-R: Elysia, Gwendolyn & Faith

Romantica’s ultimate goal is to make every bride feel exquisitely beautiful on her special day. The team strive to capture the real you in every design, surpassing your expectations and crafting a dress that is everything you dreamed of and more. Romantica’s commitment to the art of bridalwear extends beyond their designs to the carefully selected boutiques that carry their creations.

L-R: Oriana, Shiloh & Ramona

Each of Romantica’s hand-picked bridal boutiques shares their passion and commitment to ensuring a seamless and personalised experience for brides-to-be. Their knowledgeable and dedicated staff understand the intricacies of bridal fashion, guiding you to the perfect gown that complements your shape and wedding day style.

2024_romantica_leni from Romantica Of Devon on Vimeo.

We invite you to explore the latest collections on our website, www.romanticaofdevon.co.uk, and embark on a journey of discovery, where romance, style, and individuality converge to create the perfect wedding dress for your extraordinary day. Romantica of Devon – where dreams meet design, and love is woven into every stitch.

How To Enter:

Follow @romantica on Instagram
Follow @WeddingJournal on Instagram
Fill in the form below

Closing Date: Monday 19th February 2023.

T&Cs

The competition is open to all brides to be throughout the island of Ireland.
There is no entry fee and no purchase necessary to enter this competition.
There must be at least seven months between the competition closing date and your wedding date.
The prize is non-transferable.
The prize is as stated; no cash or other alternatives will be offered.
Please note that Romantica dresses range from size 6 to 30.
Wedding Journal will choose a winner at random and notify the winner of receipt of their prize within seven days. Once they are notified, if they don’t reply within 14 days a new winner will be chosen.
The winner must be prepared to locate and travel to their nearest Romantica stockist. Travel expenses will be the winner’s own.
Wedding Journal will keep in touch with both the winning bride and the manufacturer/designer to ensure receipt of the prize.
The bride will cover dress alteration costs.
The winner must be prepared to share photographs of them – approved by them – posted to social media by Romantica, Wedding Journal and the bridal boutique. We would appreciate if the lucky winner could share a wedding photo wearing their Romantica gown.

The post Win A Wedding Dress From Romantica (CLOSED) appeared first on Wedding Journal.

Winter Hen Party Ideas Abroad

Margaret Connolly — Tue, 16 Jan 2024 11:19:07 +0000

Having a winter hen party to look forward to in January and February is a great way to offset those New Year blues!

Hit The Slopes

A winter hen party in the snow is perfect! Hire a chalet and enjoy hitting the slopes during the day and the craic of apres ski in the evenings. Or book a luxurious hotel with spa and leisure facilities that you can make use of too. There are a variety of companies who offer three to four day ski and snowboard breaks, which are designed specifically with the fun in mind. Whether seasoned skiing or wanting a try a new adventure together, this could be a really fun adventure together – and it is more affordable than you might think!

Ski festivals are becoming increasingly popular, popping up in so many different resorts over the winter season, ensuring you can ski hard and party harder. The mountains are a stunning backdrop and platform for a whole host of acts and DJs – so check out what’s on and plan your trip around one that appeals to you as a group.

Soak Up The Sun

If snow really isn’t your thing and your more about soaking up the sun with a cocktail in hand while lounging by the pool, the best option for winter sun has to the the Canaries. Only four to five hour flight away, there’s guaranteed sunshine and 25-degree temperatures.

Photo by Kindel Media

The busiest resort in Tenerife is Playa De Las Americas which has loads of hotels, bars and fantastic clubs. Other busy resorts are Playa Del Ingles and Maspalomas on Grand Canaria, and Playa Blanca and Puerto Del Carmen in Lanzarote.

Check out canaryislandsinfo.co.uk to help plan your perfect hen getaway!

Viva Las Vegas

The best place to party has to be Las Vegas – have you seen The Hangover?! Set in the middle of a desert you’re going to get great temperatures, and the non-stop sunshine helps fuel the infamous daytime pool parties! You then have 24-hour casinos, all night bars and clubs… to be honest you are never going to sleep!

Photo by David Vives

During your girls trip you could consider a Grand Canyon helicopter tour, an extreme skywire where you will hurtle at 60mph across the Nevada desert or stay closer to the ground with little extras like a limousine airport transfer and a pool party tour!

Chic City Adventure

While a city break abroad doesn’t necessarily equate to fun in the sun, there will be lots of cultural experiences, shopping and fun to be had. Consider cities like Paris, Barcelona, Budapest or Amsterdam for sight-seeing and people watching from cafés during the day before the bright lights come on and you all enjoy the vibrant nightlife on offer in the bars, nightclubs and restaurants too!

Photo by Alex Azabache

You might also be interest in Best European Capitals to Host A Stag or Hen Party

The post Winter Hen Party Ideas Abroad appeared first on Wedding Journal.

NEW! Wedding Journal Exclusive Issue On Sale Now!

Margaret Connolly — Fri, 12 Jan 2024 11:12:21 +0000

We’re so excited to bring you the 2024 Annual print issue of Ireland’s Wedding Journal – it’s filled with everything you could need to plan your perfect wedding day!

Whether you got a ring for Christmas and are just at the start of your journey or you’re looking for some inspiration as you continue with your wedding planning, then there’s lots to inspire you in this special annual edition of Ireland’s Wedding Journal.

We’ve the privilege of sharing the stories of six Irish couples who have brought their own distinctive style to life in their weddings at home and away. From Rachael and Joel’s pretty floral celebration to Jess and Scott’s Mallorcan destination wedding, all of these wedding will inspire you from the style to the distinctive touches by all six couples. Plus we’ve the gorgeous Italian wedding of Fair City actors Lynseyann Mulvey and Karl Bowe!

Photography by Ella O’Callaghan

Photography by Joshua Woodland Photography

Photography by Agape

Photography by Nina Val

Photography by Kat Mervyn

Photography by Peter Carvill

Some familiar faces look back on their wedding planning and offer their insights into what they might do differently to help you as you plan your own celebration. From fitness queen Maeve Madden to Bellamianta founder Linda Stinson and more – they share what they have learnt from planning their own dream days.

We also highlight the 2024 bridal trends making an impact – once again there are so many gorgeous gowns to choose from and styles to suit every taste and silhouette. And, when it comes to looking the part on the day, we’ve also consulted with a few of Ireland’s leading stylists who share their expert advice with mothers and grooms to ensure they look and feel their very best too.

Berta

Randi Fenoli

Not forgetting about your bridal beauty, we feature a whole host of unmissable Irish make-up and skincare brands as well as focusing on the latest non-invasive aesthetic treatments and cosmetic dentistry.

There’s invaluable advice on coping with some common wedding day dilemmas from dealing with divorced parents to looking after children and even your four-legged friends! And, when it comes to your reception, we tackle the difficult task of seating your guests and serve up some delicious ideas for the tastiest wedding day menu!

Rosa Clara

As for anyone considering a destination wedding we focus on Italy and highlight all legalities for tying the knot there. For honeymoons, we travel to Southeast Asia and discover that Vietnam is hard to beat!

An Lan Retreats Ninh Van Bay, Vietnam

Last, but by no means least, you will notice that we’ve give this print issue a new makeover for 2024 and we really hope you love the new look as much as we do!

Available in newsagents throughout Ireland, M&S stores and more – be sure to pick up your copy today!

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Red Is Hot For 2024 Weddings

Margaret Connolly — Thu, 11 Jan 2024 21:19:31 +0000

Red is hot and the colour to be embracing in 2024. If you want a romantic and vibrant colour theme for your wedding day, then red could be the one for you!

Red is hot right now, and a red-themed wedding is a daring yet romantic option for couples looking to make a colourful statement at their soirée. Since the colour red symbolises joy, passion, love, and energy, the colour is a natural fit for an event that commemorates a couple’s love story.

With so many hues, from claret tones for winter to cherry red in summer, there’s a shade to suit your desired aesthetic.

A stylish example of romantic, red themed wedding stationery from Margo & Bees

Red Hot Invitations

Set the tone of your red-themed bash with your invitations. These will give your guests their first glimpse of your wedding style, so if red is the colour of the day, you will want to ensure they are aware of this. Whether a stylish red and pink mix or a glamorous red and gold, you opt for the finish that best suits how you are choosing to incorporate this colour into your celebrations.

Steffanie Elwood & Samuel Maasbommel married at Belfast Castle in September 2023. Photography by Leanne Magill.
The bridesmaids wore red dresses from Infinity Dress.

Red Hot Attire

If you’re a bold bride, rocking a red dress on your special day will grab everyone’s attention. For more traditional brides who have their hearts set on wearing a classic white gown, infuse red into your accessories, such as a red pair of shoes, a necklace or your bouquet. You can also integrate the bright hue into your beauty look with red lipstick, after all a classic red lip is timeless.

Slim Fit Velvet Jacket, £199, remusuomo.com

Scarlett from Maggie Sottero

For a colour-coordinated look, the groom can sport a red tuxedo jacket or add a pop with a red tie. For a spring/summer wedding on trend florals with a hint of of red would look great for the grooms accessories (toe, waistcoat, etc.) and could tie in with a red floral print of the bridesmaids. Mixing and matching bridesmaids with a plain red and a ditsy red-based floral would look great too.

Lantern Gemstone Pendant Charm, £60, monicavinader.com

Manolo Blahnik Corintia 90 bow-embellished crepe de chine slingback pumps, £745, net-a-porter.com

When it comes to your wedding flowers, don’t be afraid to mix red with other vibrant hues. Reds and blues can look great together, as can pink and coral tones. It is all about getting the right tones to offer the finish you are after.

Bespoke Everblooms from OMT. | One More Thing

Red Hot Décor

Decorate your ceremony space with red flowers, which could be combined with neutral tones or fun, vibrant pinks. For example, scarlet and hot pink roses paired with greenery for lush garden services in the spring/summer or red and gold foliage accompanied by pampas grass for earthy bohemian nuptials in autumn/winter. You could even add your red carpet to the aisle as you walk down to say your vows.

Photo by ArtHouse Studio

When it comes to the reception you can continue the creativity with floral decorations, hanging lanterns, and of course your table settings with the help of your table linen, glassware, place-settings, favours and more.

Photo by Giona Mason

Red Hot Cuisine

By incorporating red tones into the food and drink you are serving, your cuisine can help reinforce your theme. When it comes to your drinks they could be served in red glasses, red-colour themed cocktails could be served garnished with seasonal red berries, whether cranberries at Christmas or strawberries in Spring/Summer. You could also served red themed canapés and a wedding cake on display featuring your favourite red will add a burst of colour to your interiors.

Wedding Cake with Red Roses & Red Berries from
Creative Cakes

A red coloured cocktail, even if just pomegranate juice added to Prosecco or a red berry garnish would tie in with this theme

Featured Image: Photo by Soulseeker

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8 Essential Features of An Ideal Wedding Venue

Margaret Connolly — Tue, 09 Jan 2024 11:23:57 +0000

Finding and booking the right venue is one of the most pivotal parts of your wedding planning and will enhance everyone’s experience of your special day. Here are 8 things to look out for…

1. Venue Capacity

The first part of planning your wedding is deciding who’s going to be there. Make a list of every person who you are planning to invite. Remember, the people are more important than the place so your venue choices will be filtered by guest numbers whether than be 50 or 200.

2. Venue Style

If you’re planning a traditional wedding, you’ll likely want to find a venue style that matches these plans. For example, a stately home or romantic castle. If you’re searching for a venue with more rustic appeal, consider a converted barn or mill house. If you’d like to host your wedding outdoors, then there are dedicated spaces and thankfully in Ireland, most, if not all of these offer contingency plans in case the weather isn’t on your side. If you’re looking for something that’s truly outside the box, you might even want to consider a warehouse or a distillery.

3. Accessibility

Do bear in mind your guests and any travel to your venue. This might be more of an issue for older or very young guests. Also consider accessibility at the venue itself and whether accommodation is available for your guests and if not, that there are plenty of nearby options to suit everyone’s budget.

4. Flexible Booking

Wherever you choose to host your wedding, you’ll need a venue that offers flexible booking options in case anything happens. In the wake of coronavirus and travel restrictions, this is something that more couples are mindful about. If you can’t find transparent information about the place’s booking options, you should obtain a physical copy of this information, in case you need to get your money back.

Choosing a wedding venue comes down to much more than style and size.

5. Entertainment

Sometimes the size of your venue necessitates having a DJ instead of a band. You’d be surprised how much space a live band takes with their instruments, sound system, and stage set-up. Wedding DJs, by comparison, take up considerably less space and can more easily work with the venue’s existing sound systems.

6. Point of Contact

While it may not seem like a big deal when you’re signing on the doted line for a wedding venue, having a dedicated point of contact is important for tackling any changes that might occur or answering any queries you might have quickly and efficiently in the run up to the Just like the need for flexible booking, it’s easy to forget how important this feature is, no matter the venue.

7. Back-up Plans

This applies in the main if you’ve chosen your venue based on its outdoor options for your ceremony and reception. Make sure they have an indoor option and you know how seamlessly plans can be changed if the weather doesn’t go your way on the day.

8. Finally…

Whichever wedding venue you choose, it’s important to make sure that it simply feels right for you and your significant other. While there are practical considerations to be aware of, you really should have a gut feeling about it being the right place, so invest the time necessary to find ‘The One’ that is right for you

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Wedding Reception Trends & Tablescaping Ideas

Margaret Connolly — Thu, 09 Nov 2023 15:48:04 +0000

Event planners Maria Reidy and Tara O’Connor share the wedding reception trends they see coming through and advise on creating the perfect tablescape.

Sustainable Weddings

‘Many couples are considering how their wedding reception can be more eco-friendly,’ comments Maria Reidy from Maria Reidy Events. ‘Avoid over buying leading up to the wedding. For example, hire your wedding tabletop. We have a selection of gorgeous tabletops for hire from our sister company – Signature Rentals. Also, avoid using floral foam – ask your florist if they have an alternative option. I know we only work with florists who have principles of no floral foam. Rather than wedding favours donate to a charity and look to share and re-use pieces with your friends. Many of your friends will get married within a similar timeframe – reach out to you friends and see what they have left over from their wedding reception that could be reused!’

Smaller Intimate Weddings

Another wedding reception trend that Maria has noticed is the move towards more intimate celebrations, ‘The pandemic was the kickstart to the smaller intimate wedding here in Ireland. We have seen many of our couples opt for smaller weddings.’

This is a trend also picked up on by Tara O’Connor from The Designed Table, who tells us, ‘Weddings seem to be smaller, and brides are spending their budgets on décor of rooms and table settings. You spend most of the day at the table so your tablescape will play a big part in the wow factor of your wedding.’

Colour Themes

‘Brides tend to keep colours quite muted for spring weddings’, adds Tara. ‘Pastels are always big for spring and summer and more taupes, greens and blacks for winter. The new Pantone colour for 2023 is a magenta pink so we might see a lot of this. Ideally keep your flowers to muted tones and add pops of colours with your linen and candles on the tables.’

Hydrangea tablecloth and napkin with jute placemat, gold ring napkin ring from The Designed Table by Tara O’Connor

How To Create The Perfect Tablescape

‘For brides looking to create a timeless tablescape Tara recommends, ‘Keep it chic and simple. Don’t over crowd your table. Ask the venue to only put on what is needed for your first course. Leave tea/coffee cups and bread off the table until they are needed. If your budget allows hire in linen for your reception. This will transform not only the table but the whole room. There are so many textures and colours available to hire. I always use Total Event Rental.

‘Elegance is always key when it comes to a wedding tablescape,’ adds Tara. ‘You want it to reflect the tone of your wedding. Place lots of tealights around your floral centre pieces and tapered candles to add height to your table. Don’t obstruct the view of guests and by keeping your flowers low you will always make sure guests at each side of the table see each other.

‘Also add some of your own personal touches, for example menus with place names, which you can be placed by a napkin or on a charger plate. Another nice idea is to pick up small picture frames to put table numbers in rather than use what the venue provides. Its little touches like this that work beautifully for your wedding photos. Ribbon on napkins is becoming popular and you can get your initials printed on the ribbon too.’

Budget Savvy Tips

‘If you want to save money on a wow tablescape rent your linen from a supplier and buy your candles as far in advance as you can. Reuse what flowers you can from the church. The price of flowers has increased so much it is hard to save money here, so reusing where you can will help. A church service does take a lot of floral budget so maybe have an outdoor wedding in the venue garden to save money,’ advises Tara.

Blow The Budget Must-Haves

‘Lots of flowers and candles. Charger plates are great too as they add layers and depth to the table. You can hire these from Caterhire and if you want to add a pop of colour to your table hire a coloured water glass,’ adds Tara.

Tablescape by Maria Reidy; Photographer Peter Carvill

How To Plan The Perfect Tablescape

Maria Reidy offers her expert advice…

Establish your décor budget and add it into your overall wedding budget. Consider your rentals, florals and on the day stationery. All the details which make your day extra special.
Book your venue and set your wedding date – the date and venue will determine the style of wedding décor. A castle winter wedding in Ireland will lend itself to opulent tablescapes with plentiful candles, velvet linen and rich blooms. Or you may opt for a marque summer wedding – longer, light filled days will allow for bright blooms, coloured glassware and statement table linen.
Decide on your table configuration – round or banquet style tables.
Establish your wedding style. Do this before you start reaching out to suppliers. Many brides find this overwhelming, it doesn’t have to be – keep it simple. Create a folder on your phone and start to save any images you find inspiring. You will quickly see your wedding style come to life before your eyes!
Have fun!

Rules that Maria likes to stick to include…

Group in 3’s or 5’s on a round table.
Layer the candlelight. Use a mixture of tealights and tall taper candles to create a candlelight at high, mid and low level.
Consider the surroundings – you don’t want your tablescape clashing with the surrounding space. It should work with the space, rather than against it.
Keep your floral centrepiece low or high – you don’t want the florals to interrupt your guests conversation
Less is more! We love nothing more than creating gorgeous tablecapes for our clients. But remember the tablescape must function on the day. Don’t over clutter the table – your guests need to be comfortable and the servers will need space to place breads, oils and water as well as space for service.

Featured Image: Wedding reception tablescape by Maria Reidy Events, Photographed by Into The Light

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Top 10 European Destination Wedding Locations

Margaret Connolly — Thu, 09 Nov 2023 15:13:21 +0000

While you can’t beat the scenery offered in Ireland, if you want to have guaranteed sunshine on your wedding day, then these 10 European destination wedding locations could be just what you’re looking for.

Villa Cimbrone, Italy

Destination Wedding: Italy

A destination wedding location known for breathtaking views, medieval charms, and cute pastel-coloured Italian fishing villages, The Amalfi Coast is one of the most popular Italian locations for destination weddings. As well as offering spectacular food and wine, it is home to numerous unforgettable venues with breathtaking views of soaring cliffs and sparkling sea. The 12th century Villa Cimbrone, in the beautiful town of Ravello, is an iconic hotel for weddings and a highly prestigious backdrop for your big day. Further along the coast in Positano Villa Oliviero with its panoramic terraces is the perfect backdrop for a romantic destination wedding celebration. Other options include Lake Garda or the cities of Rome or Milan.

Best time of year to tie the knot: April to June.

Take Note: Anyone can be legally married in Italy, there’s no legal residency requirement for a wedding, simply paperwork that certifies your identity.

Destination Wedding: Portugal

The Algarve boasts stunning beaches, unique coves and caves, ochre cliffs topped by green pines and of course, the blue Atlantic Ocean in the background. Your wedding budget goes much further in the Algarve, it is not cheap, but more competitive than the likes of the Amalfi Coast and you can be assured of a stylish wedding in a gorgeous setting within budget. Check out quaint cliff-top chapels like Senhora da Rocha in Porches for the ceremony to luscious and luxurious resorts for the reception. Also in Porches Vila Vita Parc is the perfect location for your five-star wedding! Or perhaps you would prefer the charm of Case de Monda which is described as ’an idyllic oasis of calm and fun, a leafy, lush and colourful wedding venue’. Located by the beach on the marina at Praia da Rocha, NoSoloÁgua is considered one of the coolest venues around. With it’s sunny party and sunset session vibe, this venue takes you right through the day from romantic ceremony to lively nightclub beneath the stars.

Best time of year to tie the knot: June to September.

Take Note: Portugal is the only European country where you can get married on the beach thanks to the registrar being able to perform at favoured places.

Meneghetti Wine Estate, Croatia

Destination Wedding: Croatia

Croatia’s Dalmatian Coast is one of Europe’s hidden gems for destination weddings. Few places offer such atmosphere, beauty and romance just a short flight from Ireland. Blessed with one of the most beautiful coastlines in Europe as well as 1,246 islands and islets with crystal clear sea and extraordinary beaches, it offers impressive coastal vistas, breathtaking national and nature parks, beautiful rivers and lakes, as well as charming highlands. With an idyllic setting amid olive groves and vineyards, Menghetti Wine Hotel and Winery offers an elegant backdrop with a fairytale ambience. Rent out the whole estate for a truly luxurious wedding. The islands off the coast are also excellent for an atmospheric wedding from the picture postcard beaches of Brac to the A-list favourite Hvar. Be sure to check out Brijuni near Pula, Istria. Located within the national park, it offers an impeccable seafront wedding experience. It’s also worth looking into a private villa, such as Villa Sancta Maria.

Best time of year to tie the knot: April to October.

Take Note: There is no minimum residency period, but a civil ceremony is the only legally binding type in Croatia should you have you heart set on a religious one.

Hacienda Na Xamena, Ibiza

Destination Wedding: Ibiza

It’s not all about the clubbing in Ibiza, head to the countryside to discover magical scenery and a truly tranquil vibe. The stunning five-star Agroturismo Atzaro with its traditional Ibizan architecture is located at the heart of the island and surrounded by an ancient orange grove. This countryside hotel effortlessly combines rustic charm with natural luxury and is one of the most popular Ibiza wedding venues with many couples choosing to say their vows by the statement pool. You will feel in seventh heaven getting married at Hacienda Na Xamena, where you can say ‘I do’ in the cliff-top amphitheatre and enjoy stunning sunset views.

Best time of year to tie the knot: May to September

Destination Wedding: Malta

A wedding in Malta offers stunning scenery, beautiful architecture with over 7,000 years of history behind it, as well as an established destination wedding industry with a wide choice of venues. Offering both civil and religious ceremonies, the legal formalities are relatively simple and gay weddings are also welcomed. There are numerous indoor and outdoor venues to choose from and with over 300 days of sunshine alfresco dining is possible for much of the year. A wedding venue since 1962, Corinthia Palace Hotel & Spa is Malta’s most iconic five-star hotel. This historical hotel combines sumptuous cuisine and sublime service with picture-postcard gardens. The Xara Palace in Mdina is nothing short of magical. Perched on centuries-old bastions, surrounded by stunning baroque architecture, it offers luxurious accommodation and award-winning haute cuisine for your special day.

When to tie the knot: April, May, October & November

Take Note: Malta is open to everyone to get married and all ceremonies are legally recognised.

Princessa Yaiza, Playa Blanca, Lanzarote

Destination Wedding: Lanzarote

Unless you are resident, a legal wedding is not currently possible in Lanzarote, unless you are resident on the island, so couples choosing to get married here, will have to go through a small, legal ceremony at home before enjoying a symbolic blessing and hosting their reception here. Easily accessible from most airports, Lanzarote boasts year round sunshine and offers a variety of wedding venues including Princessa Yaiza in Playa Blanca with its beautiful pergola to hold your ceremony, terraces overlooking the ocean for your cocktail and a five-star restaurant of the reception meal. They also have their own disco or jazz club where you and your guests can party. Tucked away in the Los Mojones area of Puerto del Carmen the Arenas Lounge is a exclusive award winning restaurant where you can enjoy exclusivity either of the Fountain Chill Out Area for more smaller, intimate numbers or full exclusivity of the venue from numbers of 50 or more.

When to tie the knot: May, October & November

Rocabella, Greece

Destination Wedding: Greece

Known as the most romantic destination worldwide, the Greek Island of Santorini is famed for its beauty, from the marvellous sea views to those iconic white-washed houses and black-sand volcanic beaches. It is the most popular wedding destination amongst the Greek islands, offering an array of wedding venues set amongst the backdrop of traditional blue and white Cycladic architecture with breathtaking views out over the Aegean Sea. Perched on the hills of Pyrgos The Dunes Wedding Venue offers 270-degree wide panoramic views of the world-famous sunrise and sunset of Santorini. From the venue you can gaze towards the entire northern part of the island, including the Caldera and the Aegean Sea. The ample outdoor space, impressive landscaped gardens and unrivalled panoramic views make this an unbeatable venue. Alternatively, Rocabella Santorini offers. Breathtaking location on the island for your ceremony and reception.

When to tie the knot: April to May & September to November

Take Note: If you are wanting a religious ceremony rather than a civil one, be aware that the Catholic Church in Greece confirmed that churches on the islands of Crete, Syros, Milos and Santorini will no longer perform marriages for non-residents.

Chateau Sainte Roseline, France

Destination Wedding: France

Provence is famous for its picturesque villages, sun-drenched weather, excellent wine (most notably Provençal Rosé) – and, of course, those incredible lavender fields. Plus its prime location means you can choose between either the beautiful coastline or pretty rolling countryside hills as the ideal spot for your wedding day. Located in the centre of Provence, near to Saint Tropez, the French Riviera and just 45 minute’s drive from Nice, the beautiful and rustic Chateau Sainte Roseline is ideal if you fancy yourself a French countryside wedding but still with plenty to do around you. This wedding venue can cater for a intimate gathering of 30 right through to 250 people indoors and a gargantuan 1,000 people outdoors! As a winery estate, you can sip on their homemade wines throughout your wedding weekend and indulge you and your guests in tours and tastings on the days surrounding your wedding. With an onsite chapel, the local village priest of Les Arc can bless you before moving onto your reception, where you a choice of suitable backdrops to choose from. Or you might prefer the idyllic Chateau de la Ligne nestled in the French countryside 20 minutes from Bordeaux.

When to tie the knot: March to May & September to November to avoid the crowds.

Take Note: A civil ceremony is the only legally binding one and it has to take place in the town hall. There is a 40 days residency prior to the wedding, therefore many couples marry in their own country and hold a religious or symbolic ceremony in France.

Destination Wedding: Spain

Spain is a country full of contrasts, from sun-filled beachside resorts and sprawling vineyards to magical fairytale castles and haciendas. A stone’s throw from Puerto Banus, Anantara Villa Padierna Palace Resort offers palatial luxury and is the ideal location for a lavish Andalusian celebration. The resort offers endless options for your nuptials and can accommodate from 30 guests to 500 in a range of indoor and outdoor reception venues. Alternatively, just two hours drive from Madrid is the majestic Abadía Retuerta LeDomaine hotel. Set within a meticulously restored 12th-century Romanesque abbey, the hotel’s vast estate covers 1,730 acres with 500 acres of vineyards. Canapés and dinner will be a gastronomical delight thanks to the award-winning winery and a Michelin-starred restaurant (which also boasts a Green Michelin Star for its dedication to sustainability).

When to tie the knot: June-September, or May & September to October.

Take Note: Meeting the legal requirements for non-nationals can be difficult, so most couples have a civil ceremony in their own country first, followed by a religious or wedding blessing in Spain.

Grand Hotel Timeo, Sicily

Destination Wedding: Sicily

This Mediterranean island is known for fabulous food, stunning scenery of sandy beaches ringed with mountains, and delicious wine – elements that all help to make a destination wedding to remember! Located between Trapani and Palermo, Baglio Oneto dei Princip di San Lorenzo is a five-star luxury wine resort. The Belvedere Garden is ideal for a wedding banquet under the stars for up to 400 guests, while the Mandragola Hall and Mandragola Terrace provide an excellent indoor alternative with fantastic views over the countryside. Just a few steps from the ancient Greek theatre of Taormina, Grand Hotel Timeo will leave you speechless with its six-acre garden filled with lemon trees, olives, and magnolias, and the spectacular views over Mount Etna and the Mediterranean. Outdoor symbolic weddings can be celebrated on the panoramic Ganimede Terrace, with other areas being available to tailor your day to suit you.

When to tie the knot: April to June & September to October

A FEW THINGS TO CONSIDER…

You don’t want to opt for a destination that many of your guests will struggle to travel to, so consider flight costs and accessibility from the destination airport to the wedding venue.
Are you drawn to the countryside, city, sea or mountains? Luckily, a lot of these destinations offer a variety of options.
Do you want to combine your wedding with your honeymoon?
What food do you like? In other words there is no point opting for a destination where you are not a fan of the local food and wine!
What’s your budget? There is no point having your heart sent on a luxurious hotel venue on the Amalfi Coast if your finances don’t stack up, so look at similar backdrops in less popular European locations.
Which season do you want to get married in? Most European countries will have sun and be busy with tourists around the same time, but the likes of Malta offers one of the highest hours of sunshine.
How important to you is it to get legally married in your chosen location? You may find it easier to have a civil ceremony in the UK and a blessing abroad.

Q. Is a destination wedding cheaper?

A. It can be if you choose a country where the exchange rate favours your currency and where prices are lower than in the UK.

Q. Is it selfish to have a destination wedding?

A. It’s not selfish to have a wed abroad – so long as you accept that some of your loved ones might not attend.

Featured image courtesy of Romantica

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Jordan & Ben’s Chic City Wedding in Belfast

Margaret Connolly — Tue, 07 Nov 2023 14:26:11 +0000

Q Radio presenter Jordan Humphries and chef Ben Arnold planned a chic city wedding in Belfast with a rooftop ceremony at The Merchant Hotel and restaurant reception at Stock.

I Do Date: 26th March 2023

How did you both meet?

‘We matched on Bumble – the modern day meet-cute,’ laughs Jordan, ‘We started chatting and then a few days later we had our first date and headed to The Crafty Vintner for cocktails and canapés, followed by a few more tipples at The Merchant. Ironically, I had just turned 30 and sworn off dating, thinking I would never meet the right man for me and although we both said we would take things slowly within a few weeks we were talking about engagement rings and living together! In fact, Ben said in his wedding speech that he had noticed me walking down the street a few weeks prior to us connecting on Bumble which I never knew until then. Plus, I am a real foodie who doesn’t like to cook and Ben is a chef, so I think we were meant to be!’

How did Ben propose?

‘It was seven months after we met that Ben proposed. Having remembered all I had previously said I liked in an engagement ring – gold not silver and an oval diamond – he secretly had one made for me and started this process a few months before he popped the question. It was mid-January 2022, that he told me we were heading for a break at Lough Eske Castle and this came after a really busy period for both of us in work, so I didn’t really question why he was treating us to a break away. Unbeknown to me Ben had already spoken to my boss to ensure I could get the time off and also to my nail technician to make sure she would do my nails in a nice colour! When we got there I spent ages getting ready in the bathroom to go for dinner as I always do, and when I came into the bedroom to show him the transformation, he asked me to sit on the bed, handed me a gift box and inside was a personalised teddy bear he’d had made for me that had ‘Baby will you marry me?’ on its foot! He then had a whole speech for me – it was a total dream.

‘My mum is my all time bestie so I Face Timed her and dad to let them know and they were on the other end with balloons, banners and Champagne as Ben has already briefed them too – I am just glad I hadn’t got in touch with home prior to him popping the question!’

Tell us about the planning?

‘We didn’t want a church wedding, and as a nod to our first date at The Merchant, we decided to have our wedding ceremony on the rooftop there. Also, Sundays are our favourite day of the week as it’s my only day off so they are usually special, so we asked them to let us know a few dates they might be free and not wanting to rush things, but also not wanting to stall either, we opted for March 2023.

‘For our reception, we wanted to bring our guests somewhere different and food focused, so we booked Stock at St. Georges Market, where we had a sit down dinner for 60 and then a further 30 for the evening reception. Our favourite food is steak and chips and taking charge of the menu, Ben opted for a langoustine scampi with crab & apple slaw starter, followed by Côte De Bœuf and for dessert, a chocolate tart with rhubarb & vanilla cream.

‘I ordered our wedding cake – which had a white chocolate and raspberry tier and also a salted caramel one – from The French Village.

Who captured your day?

‘Lisa and Marty from Adore Weddings NI were our photographers and they have a candid style that we really wanted, we didn’t want any posed shots. Niamh McLaughlin was our videographer and as with our photographers, she captured lots of great moments that otherwise we would have missed because there is just so much going on and the day really does just fly by. So, having memories of the day captured on video and photographs is so important and we love looking back on it all.’

Tell us about some of the other suppliers you used?

‘While we wanted to plan a memorable day, we also didn’t want to spend a fortune on what is realistically one day, so we did keep it within the allocated budget. For example, I made our wedding invitations and when it came to venue styling we worked with what The Merchant supplied for the ceremony, enlisting the help of Ciara Scullion from Weddings at Tiffany’s for Stock. Picture Perfect parties NI supplied our large ‘LOVE’ letters and our balloon arch with the words ‘It was always you’ at the reception.

‘We had a champagne reception after the ceremony and before dinner where Rwanda Shaw sang and entertained everyone. In the evening, our wedding DJ was my old co-host at Q Radio and close friend Ryan A.

‘My aunty Olive is a florist and she provided our bouquets and buttonholes. The flowers were stunning and reflected the green and gold accents we used throughout the styling.

‘As for my hair, it was styled by Keris Weir and one of my bridesmaids Anna McConnell is a make-up artist and did my make-up. Oonagh Boman did my mum’s,’ adds Jordan.

What did you wear?

‘I started modelling when I was 16 and thanks to my curves, which suited wedding dresses, I have worn loads of them over the years, so I did have a pretty good idea of what suited me and what didn’t. In fact, there was a dress I remembered wearing about five years ago and I found one very similar in Reflections in Lisburn. It was in their sample sale and in my exact size – it was like it had been waiting for me! My shoes were cream sandals from Primark and I wore a stunning hairpiece from Deborah K Design. My bridesmaids wore long black dresses from Pretty Little Thing and they each picked their own hairstyle and makeup look for the day, so they all looked and felt their best.

‘Ben and the groomsmen wore a classic tux and Ben stood apart in a bespoke tailored velvet jacket from Suitor Brothers, which he has already been able to wear again to a black tie event.

‘I am not a trend driven person and we both wanted a timeless styling that wouldn’t date the wedding when we looked back on it,’ adds Jordan.

What were your favourite moments from the day?

‘For me it was walking down the aisle with dad,’ reminisces Jordan. ‘We took a little pause at the top, to be in the moment and survey room. My dad was crying with pride and I felt beautiful.’

‘Seeing Jordan walking down the aisle was mine,’ adds Ben.

Have you any advice to share?

‘Be realistic with your budget, don’t get yourself into debt over this one day – and don’t let the day become bigger than the marriage. Also everyone says it, but the day flies so savour every moment and last but not least don’t sweat the small stuff!’

Jordan & Ben’s Dream Team

To read more real-life weddings stories click here

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Bridal Party Roles Explained!

Margaret Connolly — Thu, 02 Nov 2023 11:46:06 +0000

Assigning bridal party roles can be one of the most important tasks and we’ve broken each role down so you can start planning with ease today.

Bride & Groom

You both have a lot of roles and tasks that will need to be ticked off! Firstly, you will need to discuss and agree on an overall budget.

You will also need to pick a date and a venue. After that, you can start preparing and planning your invites! Other responsibilities include ring bands (traditionally, you pay for one another’s), wedding cake and the photographer and musicians.

It is also common that the bride and groom help in contributing to the bill for the overall wedding.

Bride’s Parents

Bride’s parents have traditionally paid for most expenses. Today, it is much more acceptable for the budget to be distributed amongst the bride’s parents, groom’s parents, and the couple.

The bride’s parents traditionally hold the first engagement party. They may contribute to the guest list and wedding details. The mother of the bride chooses her outfit, then informs groom’s mother of her choice.

The bride’s father gets fitted for formalwear. On the day of the wedding, then he escorts her to the ceremony site and may walk her down the aisle. He tends to be the last person to leave the reception to ensure that the evening has ended with no problems.

Groom’s Parents

Traditionally, the groom’s parents contact the bride’s parents after the engagement. They may host an engagement party also. They provide a list of guests to the newly engaged couple. They consult with the bride’s parents on their outfits. They nowadays may contribute to some wedding expenses.

Maid of Honour

Before the wedding, the maid of honour’s duties includes coordinating the bridesmaids’ activities, bachelorette party and dress fittings. She also helps the bride and groom with any errands or tasks.

The maid of honor accompanies the bride to the ceremony on the wedding day. She arranges her veil and train and bouquet when needed. She will also sign as a witness on the marriage license. At the reception, she dances with the best man and organises the bridesmaids for formal pictures. The Maid of Honour will also help the bride organise her belongings before the honeymoon.

Bridesmaids

The main role of a bridesmaid is to assist the maid of honour with her wedding-planning duties. Your bridesmaids help you with tasks like invitations and will help plan the shower and bachelorette party.

During the reception, bridesmaids are required to mingle and ensure that all guests are feeling being well looked after.

Junior Bridesmaid

A girl aged between 9 and 13 is usually known as a junior bridesmaid. If there is no flower girl for the wedding day, she will normally step in to scatter the flower petals or walk ahead of the bridesmaids during the ceremony.

Flower Girl

The flower girl is usually between the ages of four and eight. During the ceremony, she walks ahead of the bride, scattering flower petals in her path or she may carry a bouquet instead.

Best Man

Like the maid of honour to the bride, the best man is the groom’s biggest source of support.

They are required to organise the bachelor party, coordinate the groomsmen’s formalwear fitting, pick up the groom’s attire, and orchestrate the toasts at the rehearsal party.

On the day of the wedding, the best man makes sure the groom gets to the ceremony site on time. He brings the bride’s ring and signs the marriage license as the groom’s witness. Afterward, he organizes the groomsmen for formal pictures, dances with the maid of honour, and orchestrates the toasts during the reception. After the celebration, he sees that all rented formalwear is returned.

Groomsmen

The groomsmen have very few responsibilities before the wedding. Mainly, they help the best man plan and host the bachelor party. They should periodically check with the groom and best man to see if they can handle any other tasks.

On the wedding day, the groomsmen should arrive early at the ceremony site, ready to greet guests. They’ll be involved in the wedding and are expected to remain at the reception for its entire duration.

Junior Groomsman

Similar to the duties of a junior bridesmaid is a junior groomsman or junior usher (he wears a tuxedo). Nowadays, if they are up for it, they are more than welcome to scatter the flowers up the aisle on the day.

Ring Bearer

The ring bearer is traditionally a boy who carries the wedding rings on a satin pillow (or symbolic rings, with the real rings being held by the honour attendants) down the aisle.

The post Bridal Party Roles Explained! appeared first on Wedding Journal.

How To Do A First Look With Your Bridal Party

Margaret Connolly — Thu, 02 Nov 2023 11:19:45 +0000

While a first look may seem like a spare of the moment job on your wedding day, it realistically takes a lot of planning to perfect!

Filming ‘first looks’ with your bridal party is growing increasingly popular, especially on social media. Everywhere you look, whether it’s TikTok or Instagram, brides have now begun documenting this precious moment, showcasing their look to the bridal party. First looks can ease your nerves and create a cherished moment with your family and friends. It can also produce the most genuine and intimate images for your wedding photographs.

Make Sure You Have Lots of Time

Despite what you’d think, planning a first look could take an hour or more out of your morning! Make sure everyone has plenty of time, so it can come across as relaxing as possible.

Start off your morning lounging in your pyjamas with your bridal party, sipping on some bubbles! Why not have some personalised pyjamas so the photographer can also capture those getting ready moments.

Make sure the hair and make-up team are aware that you would like to have some time for a big reveal so that they are well prepared. You should also make sure the photographer or videographer are aware of the reveal from the get-go. That way, they can arrange and find the best spots for lighting.

Think ahead about a good reveal spot so that everyone, including the photographer, is aware of where you’d like this to take place.

Image courtesy of Sasha Treanor Photography

Make Sure There Are Separate Rooms

If you want your reveal to be an extra special moment, we recommend you have your own room to get changed and ready. That way no one will see you beforehand, and the reactions are genuine!

Have a family member or a close friend help you into your dress in your room. You might want to have a photographer ready for them special moments. For instance, you might have buttons or a corset back on your dress. These images can also look very special in your album.

Make sure there is enough space for your bridal party to get ready at the same time. We recommend that the bridal party do not get changed until you are ready to do so. That way, there is no inconsistencies with attire.

If you have booked a house or hotel for the morning of the wedding, ensure that there is enough room for this to happen. You may have to book several rooms or adjoining rooms if your venue is a hotel.

Image courtesy of Ryan McDonald

Final Moments Matter!

We recommend making someone else responsible for the overall delivery of the reveal on the day. This could be the photographer, a family member, a bridesmaid or even a stylist. That way, it won’t feel like you are adding pressure on the bridal party to ‘perform’. You don’t want your bridal party to feel like they are forcing a reaction.

With that in mind, we do recommend that the party is told to put their phones down during the reveal. Bridesmaids holding their phones won’t look aesthetically pleasing in the photographs! You also want to make sure they aren’t caught off-guard in the moment. Selfies can always come later!

Other than that, enjoy! This is an intentional, extra special moment with your favourite people. Make the most of the memories.

Featured image courtesy of Sasha Treanor Photography

The post How To Do A First Look With Your Bridal Party appeared first on Wedding Journal.

How To Choose The Perfect Wedding Venue

Margaret Connolly — Thu, 02 Nov 2023 10:56:45 +0000

The 10 questions you should be asking yourself before you make the final decision on your dream wedding venue.

1. What Suits Your Style

This might seem obvious, but look for wedding venues that fit the theme you have in mind. For example, if you want a chic, modern wedding, perhaps a stylish restaurant or if you want something more relaxed and bohemian, you could consider a venue that has the options of an outdoor space where you can incorporate natural elements that suits the style you are after. Also make sure it is a venue you both want.

2. Have You done Your Research

The number one thing you’ll want is for things to run smoothly on the day, so it’s important to do your research! Read reviews and get recommendations of potential wedding venues to make sure you get the best service. Finding a respected venue with a great reputation means that you can be confident in your choice. Also looking at real wedding photography and videos featuring potential wedding venues on your shortlist can help you to better visualise how your own day would look. Finally, always go and see your top venue choices at least two or three times before you make a final decision. There’s no rush to sign on the dotted line, so take your time because once you settle on your venue it will affect every other choice you’ll make.

3. What’s Your Budget?

You can find a gorgeous wedding venue even on a tight budget, so don’t be afraid to sit down and work out exactly what you can afford when it comes to you venue because it will make things a whole lot easier from the outset and save on any heartache down the line. Hotels that cater for lots of weddings usually offer competitive packages, making budgeting so much easier. Also bear in mind that prices can vary seasonally and for different days of the week.

4. Do You Know All That’s Included?

Once you’ve made a shortlist of potential wedding venues, you need to know what’s included in your hire to ensure there are no costly surprises further down the line and also to allow you to compare like-for-like prices before making your final decision. Also check if you have exclusive hire of the venue and if you’re allowed to bring in external suppliers or do you have to choose from the venue’s supplier list? Don’t be afraid to ask questions because you want everything to be crystal clear before signing on the dotted line!

5. How Involved Do You Intend To Be?

If you want to minimise the stress and hassle of wedding planning, then a hotel wedding where you work with an in-house planner will suit you best. If, on the other hand, you plan on overseeing every little detail yourself, an exclusive hire venue or marquee wedding could be perfect for you.

6. Where Is Your Venue Located?

Where you get married is an important decision because you will likely have friends and family all over the place and you’ll want to find a venue that allows as many people to attend as possible. For example, you’ll want to consider elderly relatives and those travelling from outside of the country, factoring in how easy it is to get to the venue and the accommodation on offer at the venue and nearby.

7. How Many Guests Are You Having?

Knowing how many guests you’re expecting to invite before you go looking at wedding venues ensures you don’t fall for somewhere that’s too small or somewhere that’s going to be too expensive for the number of guests you want to invite.

8. What Is The Food Like?

One component of your day which will be spoken about for a long time is the catering – guests love food! Therefore, it is a good idea to eat at the venue before committing and you’ll want to get to taste your wedding day menu in due course to ensure it is what you were expecting.

9. What’s The Curfew?

Whether its policy or due to licensing conditions, most venues have a finish time. If your day starts at 1pm and carriages are at midnight, you may feel that’s sufficient, but if you picture you and your guests partying late into the night, you may need to make this a factor in your search. Some venues allow a later finish for a fee, others (if they’re an exclusive hire) may allow any overnight guests to continue in a lobby or other area of the venue. Making sure you’re clear on this and that your venue meets your expectations will help ensure your day is perfect for you.

10. Are You Keeping An Open Mind?

You won’t love every venue – but it might just be the venue you least expect that takes your breath away! Even if you think you know what you want, try to keep your mind open to new ideas, themes and locations.

We highlight the Top 100 Wedding Venues throughout Ireland in our new, FREE Digital magazine to help you with your search for the perfect one – click here to see if there is one for you!

The post How To Choose The Perfect Wedding Venue appeared first on Wedding Journal.

What Is A Wedding Content Creator? & Why You Need One!

Margaret Connolly — Tue, 31 Oct 2023 17:28:51 +0000

We chat to wedding content creator Erin Riley, founder of Forever Captured NI, about this increasingly popular wedding service.

So you’ve booked the wedding photographer and most of you will also budget for the wedding videographer as well – but how about the wedding content creator?

A new trend in the age of of Instagram reels and TikTok trends, a wedding content creator is another wedding supplier to consider adding to your dream team in order to capture candid moments and recreate the latest trends with your bridal party, family and friends to share on your social media accounts.

Even if you are used to capturing content like this yourself, chances are you won’t have the time or your phone handy every time you want to capture a candid moment or record a trending video, so this is exactly why a dedicated wedding content creator is a must!

Also, you may have friends who feel they could do this job for you, but you probably also have friends who feel they could take pictures or shoot video content, but you pay a professional rather than rely on them – so we would recommend the same when it comes to a wedding content creator. It is a lot of pressure for a friend or family member not used to getting content at an occasion like this.

To see recent content created by Erin click here

Erin, why do the think the popularity of a content creator has grown at weddings and why would you recommend hiring one?

‘Firstly, because you want fun, magical, modern and candid content that is created specifically for social media and also provides long-lasting memories from your special day.

‘Secondly, you’ve hired a photographer and videographer to capture the picture perfect, posed shots but what about the raw ‘behind the scenes’ footage? This the content a professional like myself aims to capture, so that the bride and groom can look back on some of the most intimate, natural moments from their wedding.

‘Thirdly a content creator allows couples to get involved in recent social media trends and create content with control over the finished product.’

What does a content creator offer that a photographer and videographer can’t?

‘Hundreds of raw content that is delivered to you 24 hours after your wedding day. Plus edited reels to be posted on social media right away! While there can be planned, staged trend-led content to be captured, most will be candid and I blend in with the guests, so I’m perfect for couples that are camera shy,’ adds Erin.

‘I suppose I am a bonus to the team hired to captured all those details of your day – a day you have spend months, maybe years planning and it does go by so fast that you want to be sure you don’t miss a thing.’

To see recent content created by Erin click here

What should brides expect on the day?

‘My goal is to capture every moment of a couple’s day as it unfolds. Producing raw footage and video that will bring back instant memories of the most special day of their lives. I love to shoot on my iPhone, using the raw, social media style footage I produce to create beautiful content that showcases their perfect day.’

When do couples receive their content?

‘All of the content is sent the next day after your wedding via a downloadable link.’

How much should a bride budget for this service?

At Forever Captured NI, I have a range of packages to suit all budgets from £135 to £1,195.’

For further information and to contact Erin about her wedding content creation service click here

The post What Is A Wedding Content Creator? & Why You Need One! appeared first on Wedding Journal.

Steffanie & Samuel’s Romantic Castle Wedding in Belfast

Margaret Connolly — Wed, 25 Oct 2023 10:05:34 +0000

Steffanie Elwood & Samuel Maasbommel my have met in an unconventional way, but they tied the knot in the traditional way in a picturesque castle venue in Belfast.

Wedding Date: 1st September 2023

How did you meet?

‘Samuel and I are both gamers and met playing World of Warcraft,’ explains Steffanie. ‘Samuel is from Belgium and I was on his friends list for a while before he messaged me in March 2018. I decided to fly over to meet him at the end of April. After flying back and forth for a few months, Samuel, who can live anywhere for his job, decided to move here in August 2018. We lived with my parents for a couple of years until we got our own home in 2021.’

How did Samuel propose?

‘We flew back to Belgium in February 2020 and knowing I love all things Disney, he surprised me with a trip to Euro Disney in Paris for my birthday, proposing on Valentine’s Day in front of Sleeping Beauty’s castle as the fireworks went off during the light show that evening. It was just magical!’

When did you start planning?

‘I am so laid back and didn’t rush into planning my wedding, but luckily my mum suggested we start looking at some dresses. I actually fell for the first dress I tried on, which was a Justin Alexander gown that I would never have picked myself. Neil from Orchid Bridal Studio was so helpful and although I didn’t want sparkle or anything puffy he suggested I try it on. It was perfect and I realised this even more so when Neil got me to try the dress style I thought I wanted. This was in October 2022 and it was the dress that spurred on the rest of the wedding planning! My princess gown needed a castle and while we had previously considered a lowkey affair at Belfast City Hall, Samuel always jokes that he is the king of the castle, so we paid a visit to Belfast Castle and the two of us immediately knew it was perfect for our ceremony and reception.’

What about your other wedding suppliers?

‘We hired the Ulster String Quartet for our ceremony and we wanted them to play the traditional ‘Here Comes The Bride’ as I walked up the aisle and then we wanted Bruno Mars ‘Marry You’ as we both walked out.

‘Samuel and I are both foodies so this was an important aspect of the day and our wedding caterers served amazing food. Both our starters and desserts were made up of three mini portions which was a bit different and we served two cocktails – Strawberry Daiquiris and Pornstar Martinis.

‘I went with a regal Burgundy colour theme as I felt it worked well with the castle venue and my florists took this brief and came up with the most beautiful creations. I ordered my invitations from Etsy and opted for an acrylic invite and they arrived in a Burgundy envelope with a gold seal.

‘We all stayed at Corrs Corner Hotel the night before, and night of the wedding, and organised a vintage wedding car as transport, but as a surprise my mum organised the horse and carriage at the castle. I love horses so this was a real treat and I certainly had my Disney princess moment!

‘Finally, we were entertained in the evening by a wedding DJ and a selfie mirror. Large sparklers brought at atmospheric end to the most special day.’

Who captured your day?

‘We didn’t use a videographer and our photographer was Leanne Magill. I found her after seeing another girl’s wedding. I love the lighting and colour she achieves with her photography. We had a pre-wedding shoot with Leanne at Murlough Beach in Newcastle and on the day of the wedding she never stopped and captured so many wonderful memories for us.’

What did you wear?

‘Obviously I have recounted the tale of my dress and when it came to the bridesmaids and my man of honour, all of which I met through gaming, the girls wore the same dress which can be worn numerous ways and Reece wore a black tux with a bow tie to match the bridesmaids. The groomsmen all wore tuxedos but Samuel stood out as the groom in a green velvet jacket.’

Have you any advice to share?

‘Even though I am chilled out, it does get stressful towards the end. However, if you remember to trust your suppliers because they all know what they’re doing and everything just falls into place on the day, there is no need to worry.’

Steffani & Samuel’s Dream Team

Photography: Leanne Magill

Venue: Belfast Castle

Flowers: Millies Parlour

Wedding Dress: Orchid Bridal Studio

Bridesmaids Dresses: Infinity Dress

Groomswear: Freddie Hatchett

Catering: Arbutus Catering

Cake: The Sweet Life by Lauren

Cermony Music: Ulster Quartet

Wedding DJ: Premier Wedding DJ NI

The post Steffanie & Samuel’s Romantic Castle Wedding in Belfast appeared first on Wedding Journal.

Emma & Niall’s Stylish Celebrations at Boyne Hill House

Margaret Connolly — Wed, 25 Oct 2023 09:58:45 +0000

Emma Brazil and Niall Feeney recently hosted their stylish wedding celebrations in Boyne Hill House.

Date of Wedding: 8^th July 2023

How did you meet?

We got together in 2015 and like any true Irish romance, we met in the smoking area of a nightclub. We were both in Pygmalion and Niall’s friend (the man who would later go on to be his best man) pulled a disappearing act and left him on his own. Niall thought; “I could sulk, look moody in the corner drinking on my own and wait for him to get back or I can go up to that group of girls over there and talk to someone special.” Spoiler alert…I was part of that group of girls,’ recounts Emma.

‘We were together most of the night, Niall was wearing a hat (very 00’s hipster I know) that I wanted to wear for a selfie (which we still have and love that we have a picture of the night we met) and we then exchanged numbers and went our separate ways.

‘Niall text me that night and we joked and talked back and forward for a few days until I left Niall on read and never text me back one day. Something I still enjoy bringing up.

‘Three months later we would match on Tinder. Niall messaged me “well well well, look who it is” and this time I replied straight away. The texting started then and never stopped. Within a couple months of that day we were a couple. About six months into our relationship I was moving to Aberdeen, Scotland to complete my masters and we made the decision to move there together. We have so many memories from that time which we’ll always cherish and we have amazing friends from Scotland too which means we always have a great excuse to go back,’ explains Emma.

How did Niall propose?

‘He popped the question in December 2020. The actual proposal was a dream, the lead up to it not so much! We were planning a big trip together to New York and Niall thought that would be perfect for his proposal. Niall booked a rooftop proposal, and then Covid happened. Everything was cancelled, it didn’t look like we would get to New York for a couple of years and Niall knew he didn’t want to wait any longer to ask me to marry him, so he needed a new plan.

‘He booked the wonderful Wineport Lodge and reserved the Pavilion overlooking the lake. To reduce my suspicions about any random fancy hotel weekends being booked, Niall made up a lie that one of my clients was dating someone who worked in “some hotel in Athlone” and got us a room. I love a good deal so didn’t ask too many questions. But, we were cancelled on again.

‘Then, when Niall was booking a new date someone else had reserved the Pavilion so Niall had to find another date. Then Niall was cancelled on again because there was no inter-county travel. For the final re-booking, travel around the country opened up on the Friday and we were staying the Saturday. The original booking was for early June and eventually we got engaged in December.

‘I didn’t suspect a thing because Niall was too calm all day. I never noticed that he wasn’t really drinking much while I was helping myself to lots of Prosecco, while he was running off to the toilet a lot to practice his speech! A speech which he never got through because he was balling crying too much,’ recalls Emma.

‘Niall hired a photographer to capture the moment (the brownie points are endless for Niall after this – he knows me very well), and it’s so nice to have photos because it was all over so quick. Niall was absolutely exhausted after everything, and I just wanted to sit up all night talking and celebrating, but he KO’ed after dinner.

‘I can still remember how I felt so vividly, the adrenaline, love and excitement was like nothing I have ever felt (until our wedding day); this was one of the best nights of my life. It’s so beautiful to have someone ask you to marry them, to know they love you to their very core and they want to journey through life with you for the amazing moments and the difficult ones. I know my path wouldn’t be as fun and loving if Niall wasn’t there by my side.

How did the planning process go?

‘So I did all the planning myself from start to finish,’ explains Emma. ‘I loved the planning process as a whole but there were definitely some periods of stress. Now I actually miss the planning process, it was such a massive part of my life for two years that it feels like I’m missing a little piece of me. I’m a little jealous of all the brides to be and this part of their wedding journey. I started planning IMMEDIATELY, from the engagement night (because Niall fell asleep from the exhaustion of proposing) meanwhile I was on Pinterest at 3am in the Wineport Lodge in our beautiful suite,’ she laughs. ‘I began listening to wedding podcasts etc, but to be honest I soon let all those influences of the planning go because I found that too many opinions were pulling me away from what I actually wanted our wedding to look like and feel like. Trends and social media can be great for inspiration but equally they can steer you in the opposite direction and make you doubt your own vision. I can admit, I love to be organised when needed and I am a planner so I was READY to plan the most important day of our lives.’

Who were the wedding suppliers you chose to work with?

‘We chose Boyne Hill House as our venue. Honestly, from the moment we ventured up the beautiful driveway we knew it was the one! The aesthetic was just perfect, we wanted an outside ceremony if possible, which they offered in the form of the secret garden nestled on the grounds. What is not to love about that? However, it was mainly how amazing the staff were and their attention to detail. From our first viewing we were given the most heart-warming welcome and we were made to feel like we were the only bride and groom to ever exist. The customer service and attention to detail was second to none with the venue. The team and staff were wonderful. Accommodation for guests was on the grounds so we knew the party could go all night. The manor house is breath taking and the aesthetic inside was beautiful. We also wanted our wedding day to be held in the one place so ceremony, dinner, dancing etc. all at the same venue. However, we didn’t like the idea of everything happening in the one space, again Boyne Hill was perfect because you flow from the grounds to the manor house to the reception area to the courtyard, which gives the illusion that you’ve journeyed to different places without the inconvenience of actually travelling. I also brought my mum to see the venue and she loved it so done deal.

The team as Boyne Hill are some of the nicest people I have ever dealt with. I never felt an ounce of stress when organising my wedding regarding the venue. The individual team members I dealt with know who they are and from the bottom of my heart I want to thank them for making our day so seamless. They were so organised but lacked any rigidity, they were relatable and kind. I loved having them guide us both through the day and any question or thoughts was emailed and replied to instantly. The reservations team – they need a special mention because they were like ninjas when it came to the name changes that needed to be made in the lead up. I don’t have the words to express the gratitude I felt for the whole team,’ adds Emma.

‘Niamh Callery from Anu Celebrancy was out celebrant and from the moment of first contact all the way through until the day of our most perfect wedding ceremony she was amazing! It goes without saying that the celebrant you choose for your wedding day is an integral part of it and I’m so grateful that my husband and I found this wonderful lady! We wanted to create our own individual wedding ceremony, have it be our style, fun and free with a whole lot of love! Niamh helped us shape our ceremony to our exact style as she is brimming with knowledge and information and so happy to share this with you but never forceful about ideas, which we loved. Niamh is so warm, funny and brings a sense of calm that can help erase any jitters you may have about the ceremony and how it will run. If there are a few nerves still around on the morning of the wedding ceremony don’t fret as Niamh is there with some calming techniques to help you breeze into your wedding morning! I cannot express enough how amazing she is as a celebrant and I would highly recommend all couples to place their trust in Niamh for their wedding day! I have never had so many messages about how wonderful our celebrant was and how much people enjoyed the ceremony because it was so personalised. Logistics wise – flawless once again. Great communication and contact and always there if needed! Niamh you made our wedding day such a joy, full of laughs and love just as we had hoped, we’ll be forever grateful to you for that. She is awesome.’

‘The ceremony music was by One fine Day. It’s hard to put into words how amazing Lorna and Jack were! Music was such an important part of our wedding day as we know for years to come the songs we chose will evoke such beautiful memories for us and mission accomplished with Lorna and Jack. The pair were so accommodating regarding song choices and preference for our day. They complement one another so beautifully and Lorna’s voice is the dream, this music duo were everything I imagined for my wedding day. From the day of booking to the day of my wedding they kept great communication and any changes needed closer the time were accepted without issue. We were lucky enough to have an outdoor ceremony in Boyne Hill House and I worried if the sound would carry in the outdoors but there was nothing to be feared as they had all factors catered. Honestly, they complemented the ceremony so much as opposed to overpowering those intimate moments. I would HIGHLY recommended One Fine Day for your wedding. All our guests spoke so highly of Lorna and Jack and they deserved every bit of praise. I would love to get married all over again just so I could have them perform once more.

‘The glam squad of dreams was Ruth Cassidy on make-up and June Murtagh on hair! It was only after meeting these two queens for my trial that I realised how integral your hair and make-up artist are for your wedding day. It goes without saying that they are EXCEPTIONAL at their profession, their work is second to none and I am obsessed with what they do. It’s unfair I can’t have them help me bring the glam every day but here we are. As I said the people you pick for your hair/makeup etc. are so important. I don’t think brides realise that these are the people who are with your from the very start of your wedding day until you walk down the aisle. So the energy, attitude and vibe they bring will have an impact on the tone of your wedding morning and if you want the most amazing wedding morning of all time then you need Ruth and June. They are hype queens, who encourage you to feel like you are the most beautiful bride to ever grace the planet. Also they ensure you as bride are priority but nobody in the bridal party ever felt less than, they treated everyone with the upmost respect and we all had the BEST TIME. Also I can say hand on heart, my mam never felt more stunning because Ruth and June both took the time to chat with her about the look she wanted and they made that happen. So age, hair type, skin type was irrelevant because they took the time to listen and explain what was possible for you individually. During my trail I knew I was in safe hands, I left on cloud nine, so confident and happy in my decision. My wedding morning was a dream and I will always look back with the fondest memories of having both of them with me.’

‘Emma Rose Floristry supplied my flowers. For me Emma and Jack have a unique take on floral wedding aesthetic and they understood what I wanted so well. The communication between us was always consistent – I bombarded them with moodboards and Pinterest boards and they never batted an eyelid at this! They were also so understanding in knowing that your idea for your wedding can definitely change within a two year timeframe and when that did indeed happen, they supported me in finding what was right for our wedding. I would highly recommend people get in touch, as they will enhance your wedding day.’

Who captured your day?

We had the amazing, Caroline McNally, also known as “Wild Things Wed” on socials. There are not enough words for us to describe how much we love Caroline and the fantastic job she did on capturing our special day.’ As Emma goes on to say, ‘I’m not afraid to admit that I love photos and I have zero issues having my photograph taken, now let’s elevate that by having a professional take our photos…bliss! To be fair Niall and I both love pictures because they are the memories that will live on forever and they evoke such happiness. Picking the right photographer was a major priority for us so I had started the hunt really soon after we got engaged. I stalked Instagram every day religiously until I stumbled upon Caroline’s page. Her whole vibe and aesthetic was EXACTLY what I was looking for. Not only that, Caroline has such an extensive professional catalogue that she is clearly not a cookie cutter, one size fits all photographer. Her client base is so varied and individual that I knew upon meeting her we would be able to devise a plan for our wedding that was individual to us. She is easily one of the most effortlessly cool people I’ve ever met but the genuine warmth and enthusiasm she showed was amazing. Caroline was like a ninja on our wedding day, snapping away, most of the time we didn’t even know where she was. She also had a preview of our wedding photos THE DAY AFTER THE WEDDING – I’m sure she has superpowers! I had tears in my eyes looking through the preview – my heart was so full I could burst. She has such a unique, alternative, modern style of shooting, your photos will be super special. In conclusion, we are obsessed with Caroline and out photos and highly recommend you book her, and fast because she is booked and busy!

What did you wear?

My experience with Forever Bridal in Belfast was fantastic, they were so helpful and friendly. I had the opportunity to try on lots of different styles (dream come true!). I was really influenced by the “dramatic sleeve” trend (March 2022) and I thought this was the route I would go but when I tried them on, I just felt they weren’t the one and I didn’t want to look back and think I picked my dress based on a trend. I had travelled to a number of different boutiques but Forever Bridal really felt like my style, it stocked some incredible designers and I really wanted to make a statement with my dress. I loved the idea of a classic design because it’s timeless but I wanted some flare and a modern element because truthfully I wanted to feel out of this world in my wedding dress. I fell in love with Pillar by Woná Concept because of the lace sleeve with the scalloped edge (timeless) but the drama of the overskirt/backless element and the modern twist with the structured shoulder. I tried on the dress, fell in love but I wanted to make sure so I didn’t buy on the day and instead I had already booked in for another fitting in another boutique so I attended that and it just solidified what I already knew; Pillar was my dress and I couldn’t wait to wear her on my wedding day. Also I only ever brought my mam to any of my try-on’s from the outset until I knew I had found the one and then I brought my bridal squad along. The dress has drama which I loved but I was still super comfortable and I could party the night away with everyone. It is funny, when I think back, the wedding dress I chose was the visual I had in my head many moons ago, I wasn’t one to dwell on when I would get married, but the long lace sleeve, low back was always in my mind’s eye and I never wanted to wear a veil which also came to fruition.

‘Niall and his groomsmen wore tuxedos from Tangos Suit Hire. Niall added a waist coat purchased at Moss Bros because he wanted to stand out as the groom. He is also a man with a great sense of style, so he added some accessories like a gold pocket watch which was a communion present from his uncle many years ago. It was so special to be able to add this to his wedding attire.

‘My bridesmaids wore champagne, cowl neck full-length dresses from Pretty Lavish.’

What were your favourite moments from the day?

‘For us the most special aspect of the day was having a personalised wedding ceremony, we spent a lot of time creating our wedding ceremony with our celebrant Niamh (who is just amazing). We asked our friends and family if they would be part of our ceremony by reading particular pieces of writing we both loved and asking both our mum’s to carry the rings up the aisle for us to exchange. We also decided on including the “Love letter and wine box ceremony” as part of our wedding ceremony. So on our first anniversary we get to unbox the letters we wrote the night before our wedding and pop some Moet to celebrate. We are both SO excited to experience those raw feelings and emotions from the night before the wedding once again. Finally, we had our good friends (epic singers and musicians) close our wedding night with a sing song in Boyne Hill House and everyone sang and danced the night away with one another and that’s something we’ll never forget.

‘For me having a first look with my dad and getting ready to walk through the gates of the secret garden and down the aisle is a feeling and a memory I will cherish for the rest of my life,’ adds Emma. ‘At that point, I needed to see Niall, I was so ready to marry him and see him and experience this day together, which we had dreamt about. So when I stepped through the gate, linking arm in arm my dad and I saw Niall (tearful, which made me melt), the love I had and the joy I felt was like an explosion. The smile could not be wiped from my face.’

Do you have any advice for other brides or grooms-to-be planning during this time?

‘So one thing myself and Niall tried to do in the lead up to our wedding was make every moment count. Meaning no matter how big or small the wedding milestone (choosing your venue, picking up your green book, collecting your wedding rings, etc.) we marked it with a celebratory drink, a home cooked meal, a special date night because your wedding day is 24 hours and sometimes the lead up is forgotten with the stress of planning and organising. Lock in your key suppliers ASAP, so your photographer, celebrant and band etc. – you will not regret being organised when it comes to this.

‘Stay true to yourself and don’t be swayed by trends or the opinion of others, this is your day and you want to be able to look back and think, “Yeah that was absolutely perfect, I wouldn’t change a thing”.

‘Finally it’s an obvious one but your wedding day will fly past in the blink of an eye, you CANNOT prepare yourself for how quickly it goes regardless of being told a million times in the run up, so SOAK UP EVERY SECOND. Don’t feel guilty for making sure you spend lots of time with your new hubby/wife on the wedding day – you can get swept up in thinking you must only ensure your guests are enjoying themselves (there is food, drink and music, believe me they are fine).

Last one, and it’s another common one, but take those 20mins just you and your new husband/wife after your ceremony, have a smooch and a giggle and just buzz of the fact that you are now MARRIED…EXCITING!’

Emma & Niall’s Dream Team

Photographer: Caroline McNally, Wild Things Wed

Venue: Boyne Hill House

Celebrant: Anu Celebrancy, Niamh Callery

Wedding Dress: Forever Bridal

Bridesmaids Dresses: Pretty Lavish

Groomswear: Tangos Suit Hire

Flowers: Emma Rose Floristry

Wedding Rings: Commins & Co Jewellers

Bridal Accessories: One Dame Lane

Makeup: Ruth Cassidy

Hair: June Murtagh

Ceremony Music: One Fine Day

Band & DJ: The Beat Boutique

Floral Arch: La Luna Floral Studio

The post Emma & Niall’s Stylish Celebrations at Boyne Hill House appeared first on Wedding Journal.

Laoise & Alan’s Picture Perfect Day at Magheramorne Estate

Margaret Connolly — Wed, 25 Oct 2023 09:56:07 +0000

Dublin couple Laoise Barrett and Alan Frazer decided to head north to tie the knot and enjoy a wonderful couple of days with friends and family.

Date of Wedding: 2 June 2023

How did you two meet?

Laoise and Alan met in 2017 when they were working together and soon realised they were more destined to be more than just office colleagues! Alan had just come back from Australia and was coming back to the same job he left two years earlier. However, with seven years between them, Alan thought he didn’t have a chance with Laoise until she made him aware of her feelings on a work night out telling him that she wished it was just the two of them. This led to their first date – an after work drink in Brewdock. ‘We continued to work together for about eight months, sneaking kisses in the kitchen and sheepishly coming into work at the same time, matching coffees in hand. It didn’t take long for the rest of the office to make the connection,’ recalls Laoise.

Tell us about the proposal.

Alan proposed on 12th June 2021, getting down on one knee at The Shelbourne with the engagement ring they had both chosen back in December 2020 from Brereton Jewellers.

2020 was a very very rough year with Laoise’s dad getting sick and dying from cancer very suddenly. Alan was there every step of the way and supported Laoise and her family. Laoise’s dad had told Alan that she needed ‘something for there’ pointing at her ring finger when she was showing him a Tiffany bracelet he bought her. ‘We were Christmas shopping and looked at rings in Breretons Jewellers window on Grafton Street. I pointed at one I liked and Alan suggested going to try it on,’ says Laoise.

The proposal brought a lot of future happiness. As Laoise comments, ‘We were so excited to be married to each other. We are best friends and truly believe we were meant to be together. No one understands either of us like the other.’

How did the planning process go?

As Laoise tells us, ‘We started relatively quickly, as I knew how fast good suppliers and venues book up! We got engaged in June 2021 and married in June 2023. I asked my bridesmaids in February 2022, we had already chosen the venue by then I believe! I’ve loved being engaged and being a bride, it’s been the best thing ever even though it was extremely stressful in the last few months!

‘Magheramorne Estate was the perfect choice of venue. They went above and beyond with the vegan dinner menu and vegan breakfast. I am vegan and Alan is pescatarian so the food options being excellent was very important to us. The venue is stunning and the wedding co-ordinator Rebecca couldn’t have done more for us. They do events during the year and we can’t wait to go back to stay already. The whole team are so friendly and go the extra mile. It’s very close to Belfast – 30 minutes away and right by the sea. The views from upstairs are stunning.’

What suppliers did you use to help pull your dream day together?

‘Our cake was a vegan one from Lilypink Bakery in Belfast. I have been plant based for the last 10 years so a vegan cake was a must! Millson and Berry were the superstars who supplied our flowers, which surpassed all expectation. Natasha O’Hare our make-up, she was so patient and took every single comment and request of mine on board. Olivia Muldoon did a stunning job on our hair and nothing was too big of an ask. She even cut one of the girls hair!

‘The night before and the day after the wedding we all stayed in Ballygally Castle. We had a day two event there. They were really great and it’s a stunning hotel right on the beach.

‘I ordered a charm for my bouquet to honour my dad on the day. It was from PrinceCharmingUK on Etsy. We spoke about dad a lot on the day too. It was important to me that he was there. He always loved a party!’

Who captured your day?

Kalie Reid was our amazing photographer. We did an engagement shoot with her before the wedding – Valentines weekend 2023. She had us feel so confident and comfortable. She was a superstar on the day along with her husband, Greg who was her second photographer and right hand man. The photos are amazing.

What did you wear?

‘I wore ‘Yana’ by Chosen by Kyha. I had originally wanted a slinky Prea James number, but when my mum, my bridesmaids and I went to try them on, we picked up Yana as a wildcard and all fell in LOVE when we saw it on. I knew immediately it was my dress. I am so obsessed with it, I just want to wear it again! I bought it and my veil in Ivy & White in Belfast. Kerry looked after us in there and she was amazing. It was such a luxe, fun and exciting time. My shoes were from Zara – I had worn them to all the bridal events and they’re so comfy I just love them. They were a bit beaten up by the wedding day and I ended up asking my sister Rowena to bring white shoe polish up with her on the morning of the wedding,’ laughs Laoise.

‘That morning, I wore silk White Company pyjamas my mum bought for me and my pearl drop earrings were a gift from my mother-in-law from from One Dame Lane.

‘My Bridesmaids – my sister Bronwen and friends Zoe, Laura and Shauna. Shauna also sang during the ceremony – wore the ‘Piper’ maxi bridesmaid dresses in champagne from Pretty Lavish and silver strappy shoes of their choosing. I got them Monica Vinader silver engraved bracelets when I asked them to be bridesmaids – they all wore these too and just pearl earrings.

‘Alan wore a jacket, shirt and slacks from Louis Copland and shoes from M&S. We wanted a casual look for him as he never even wears slacks day to day! His brother Stephen and friends Niall, John, and Chris were his groomsmen and they wore suits from Bond Brothers in Goatstown.’

What was your favourite moment from the day?

‘The anticipation and excitement getting ready in the morning I think -and the ceremony. Michael was an excellent celebrant – he made the whole thing so personal and enjoyable. Also having one of my best friends sing me up the aisle was so beautiful. Shauna has a really unique voice that I have always loved so much, and she sang ‘The Vow’ by Ruth Ann. Scott Flanigan accompanied her perfectly on the piano and he also played during dinner. We walked down the aisle as husband and wife to ‘My Girl’ – this was Alan’s idea and I thought it was so romantic!’

Do you have any advice for couples in the run up to their wedding day?

‘If you have a big wedding dress – have an evening dress to change into! I didn’t think I would want to take mine off but I would have loved something lighter for the evening,’ advise Laoise, who adds, ‘If you have the money – just spend it and have the wedding you want. We didn’t cut any corners and I’m so glad we didn’t – it’s a once in a lifetime event. And finally, start planning early because it takes longer than you think to get everything organised and to score the vendors you want. And don’t be shy to insist on having things just so. After all, It’s your special day.’

Laoise & Alan’s Dream Team

Venue: Magheramorne Estate

Photography: Kalie Reid Photography

Celebrant: Michael Grace

Pianist: Scott Flanigan

Wedding Dress: Ivy & White Bridal

Bridesmaids Dresses: Pretty Lavish

Groom’s Suit: Louis Copeland

Groomsmen Suiting: Bond Brothers

Stationery: Dusty Rose Designs

Flowers: Millson & Berry

Cake: Lily Pink Bakery

Make-up: Natasha O’Hare

Hair: Olivia Muldoon

The post Laoise & Alan’s Picture Perfect Day at Magheramorne Estate appeared first on Wedding Journal.

Rebecca & Nathan Are Perfectly In Tune at Clonwilliam House

Margaret Connolly — Wed, 25 Oct 2023 09:52:18 +0000

98FM radio presenter Rebecca Shekelton married her partner Nathan Barry in Clonwilliam House, Co. Wicklow, where they enjoyed a weekend celebrating with friends and family.

Date of Wedding: 19th August 2023

How did you both meet?

‘We met at Forbidden Fruit Festival back in 2016,’ comments Rebecca. ‘We got chatting for a bit but then went our separate ways. A little later, after some encouragement from a friend, I asked Nathan to join us to get a drink at the bar, and we later ended up heading out to town that night with friends. The following week, we went on our first date and have been joined at the hip ever since.’

Tell us about the proposal.

‘We got engaged in August 2021, after being together for five years. We had just come back from a last-minute holiday to Italy as restrictions had been lifted when Nathan surprised me with a trip to Adare Manor, a place I had been dreaming of going to for a while. I was a little suspicious as I’m always the planner in our relationship, and it was far from our usual haunts, but I also figured that maybe he was doing something outrageously generous as we had spent our 30ths in lockdown.

‘It was one of the hottest days of the year, and after a gorgeous afternoon tea, we went for a walk in the gardens where I turned around to find Nathan down on one knee. It was just perfect,’ Rebecca reminisces.

How did the planning process go?

‘Surprisingly we got the ball rolling about four weeks later. This was mainly down to a video I saw shared on Instagram of Clonwilliam House. It was the first venue we viewed, and we were just blown away. I remember Nathan driving up to the entrance, and he turned to me and said: ‘It’s here’ before we even went into the house. We then booked in our photographer, videographer, band and hair and make-up once we had the date set as these can book out fast, and we luckily got all the suppliers we had hoped for. We got married two years after getting engaged to give us enough time to save.’

Who captured your day?

‘Grace from Adam and Grace was our photographer, and she captured the day so beautifully. The photos are so natural and elegant and filled with fun and emotion. We will cherish them forever.

‘Our videographer was Matthew from Dear Oliver, who is insanely talented, a true professional and also a joy to be around. I chose both of these suppliers as they had captured my pal Lauren’s wedding before and did an incredible job. They both worked so well together and took the time to get to know us before our wedding day, which meant we were so at ease.’

What did you wear?

‘My wedding dress was the Cora Cocotte by Vivienne Westwood. It was my dream dress and my favourite thing I’ve ever worn. I’m a huge Sex and the City fan and always loved Carrie Brawshaw’s wedding dress, so I felt like a movie star on the day. I got it in The White Gallery in Newry and Rachel, the owner is just phenomenal at what she does. She made my dress journey so special. I changed into a party dress to dance the night away in, which was the ‘Lottie’ dress from Nadine Merabi and it was so much fun to wear and was giving Great Gatsby vibes!

‘Nathan’s suit was from Louis Copeland: the team were so helpful with selecting the perfect fabric, cut and style to match the venue and vibe of our wedding. The finished product was amazing quality. The groomsmen’s suits were from Tango’s in Temple Bar.

‘The bridesmaids dresses were from Rewritten. They do lots of styles of the same material dress, so each of the girls could choose their favourite and look and feel their best on the day.’

Have you any memorable moments from the day?

‘The morning of the wedding was so special: there was so much love and excitement in the room as we were getting ready. I will also never forget walking down the aisle with my dad and seeing Nathan staring back at me. The Dublin Gospel Choir performed Tina Turner’s ‘Simply The Best’, and all of the people we love were in one place. There had been a massive storm the night before the wedding: fallen trees, and power outages, but miraculously, the sun shone as we said ‘I do’. It was pure magic,’ recalls Rebecca.

Who were your wedding suppliers?

‘We had our wedding ceremony and reception in Clonwilliam House, Co. Wicklow. Miriam and the team were beyond amazing to deal with every step of the planning process and across the wedding weekend.

‘Our celebrant Rachel Murphy, who is so gifted at what she does, curated and crafted such a personal ceremony and delivered it so professionally.

‘Our caterer was Naomi’s Kitchen, and so many of our guests complimented the food – it was delicious. We couldn’t recommend Naomi and her team more.

‘Spring Break were our band and really know how to get the crowd going. It was lit! Lisa Shannon did my make-up – she is the best in the business and brought such good energy to the wedding morning. Amy Donoghue saved the day by stepping at the last minute to do my hair after my original stylist was forced to cancel the night before due to illness. Amy did such a fantastic job.

‘Our stationery and invites were from Evite You, and Joeanna Caffrey did the bridal bouquets and buttonholes. The teams at Clonwilliam looked after the venue flowers. Nathan’s Mum, Violet made our wedding cake. She is so talented, and it was so special to have that personal touch.

‘We had an audio guestbook from To Have And To Hear: the voice messages that were left were so hilarious and heartwarming to listen back to. We had a glam 360 photo booth from Hype 360, which we all had so much fun with and really added something extra, as did our personalised cocktail toppers from BumbleBee Cocktail Toppers.

‘Because we met at a festival, we threw a mini one for our day two celebrations in Clonwilliam. Our ‘Wed-Fest’ featured the perfect hangover grub from Eddie Rockets (Circuit Catering) and entertainment from Sing Along Social.’

Do you have any advice for other couples planning their wedding?

‘Enjoy every minute – all the little celebrations along the way with your nearest and dearest in the lead-up to the big day. People always say it, but the actual wedding day does really go by in a flash, so try to sneak away and have a moment alone with your partner and take it all in.

‘If things do get a bit stressful or overwhelming, try to not sweat the small stuff and remember it will all come together. Trust your suppliers, they are the experts and will guide you.’

Rebekah & Nathan’s Dream Team

Venue: Clonwilliam House, Co. Wicklow

Celebrant: Rachel Murphy

Photography: Adam and Grace

Videography: Dear Oliver

Wedding Dress: The White Gallery, Newry

Bridesmaids Dresses: Rewritten

Groom’s Suting: Louis Copeland

Groomsmen: Tango’s Suit Hire

Caterer: Naomi’s Kitchen

Band: Spring Break

Make-up: Lisa Shannon

Hair: Amy Donoghue

Stationery: Evite You

Bouquets & Buttonholes: Joeanna Caffrey Flowers

The post Rebecca & Nathan Are Perfectly In Tune at Clonwilliam House appeared first on Wedding Journal.

Would You Say ‘Yes’ To These Dresses?

Margaret Connolly — Thu, 05 Oct 2023 09:35:00 +0000

At The Wedding Journal Show Belfast last weekend we asked you to VOTE For The Dress from this stunning selection of wedding dresses.

Here we have the four dresses that were amongst the mix this year! Voting for your favourite dress will close at 5pm on Monday 9th October 2023! The dresses also made an appearance on the bridal catwalk at The Wedding Journal Show, where visitors were able to cast their vote as they watched all four sashaying down the catwalk!

Take a closer look at these four dresses and be sure to cast your vote and let us know your favourite…

Abbey from Pen.Liv

Fall in love with the beautiful embellishments and detail on ABBEY. The bodice and skirt feature the brilliant 3D laser cut floral blossom embroidered lace. Moving down to the skirt, you’ll notice the dreamy sequin tulle, tulle and organza layering that will be sure you bring all eyes on you. Along with a sexy front slit, the low back ties in contemporary flare to this A-line silhouette.

Ziva from the Zephyr Collection by Couture from Modeca

Create unforgettable memories in this fit and flare gown with detachable sleeves. The classic V-neckline combined with a wonderful bodice with lace and sequins appliques will make you look elegant and chic. The hidden pockets are the ultimate modern detail that will make you fall in love with this gown. A stunning sheer train completes this look. This dress is also available without the detachable sleeves.

Gali from Tania Olsen

The Gali gown stands as a true embodiment of the vision behind the entire collection. Drawing its name from the Hebrew word for “wave,” Gali captures the essence of fluidity and movement with its exquisite design. The gown features a stunning 3D wave-like motif adorning the front, paying homage to the inspiration behind the collection, the mesmerising play of light on water and the graceful movement of waves. The name Gali holds a special significance as it is not only reminiscent of the gown’s design but also bears a close resemblance to my mother’s name, Gail. This dress, with its intricate detailing and symbolic name, represents a harmonious blend of inspiration, personal connection, and meticulous craftsmanship, making it a standout piece within the Solis collection.

Style 7950 from Demetrios

From the Cosmobella Collection by Demetrios, this exquisite lace embellishes the bodice and striking back of this timeless Mikado gown featuring a V-neckline, long lace sleeves and luxurious A-line skirt with box pleats and pockets.

CAST YOUR VOTE NOW!

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The post Would You Say ‘Yes’ To These Dresses? appeared first on Wedding Journal.

WIN A Sculpted by Aimee Bridal Touch Up Kit (CLOSED)

Margaret Connolly — Fri, 29 Sep 2023 13:13:33 +0000

To celebrate the opening of the new Sculpted by Aimee Belfast store, we have FIVE Bridal Touch Up Kits to be won!

After years of giving guidance on the best touch-up products to use on the day, Aimee has officially launched her must-have Sculpted Touch-Up Kits partnered with an exclusive wedding make-up bag.

The touch-up kit hosts a range of items that every bride needs! Including a mini velvet veil powder, your chosen lip duo, Complete Cover-up Concealer to camouflage and a one-stop brush, Complexion Duo, to get you through the day. A must-have for wedding days!

Check out the Bridal Touch Up Kit and other Sculpted by Aimee Products in any of their three stores located in Grafton Street, Dublin, Kildare Village and their new Belfast store in Victoria Square or online.

ENTER BELOW

T&Cs

The competition closes on Friday 13th October 2023.

The five winners will be able to swap out the concealer for another non shade specific product.

Prize is non-transferable

There is no cash alternative

The post WIN A Sculpted by Aimee Bridal Touch Up Kit (CLOSED) appeared first on Wedding Journal.

In Conversation With – Aimee Connolly

Margaret Connolly — Fri, 29 Sep 2023 10:51:29 +0000

With a third Sculpted by Aimee store opening in Belfast recently, we caught up with the brand’s energetic founder and newlywed, Aimee Connolly.

Aimee, what can customers expect from this new Belfast store?

Where do I start? With every new store launch, we try to improve on what’s come before, to ensure we offer the best experience for our customers.

In addition to the vast make-up and skincare offering, which includes best-sellers, the Belfast store is stocked with exclusives and limited edition offers, as well as Sculpted exclusives such as branded crew neck jumpers, mugs, pens and bridal gifts.

Sculpted make-up artists will be on hand to offer a vast range of makeup services, complementary shade matching, and make-up advice

We have a beautiful purpose-built studio space called ‘The Suite’, which we’ll use for events, masterclasses, make overs, make-up lessons, and more. When designing the store, we wanted to make sure we had a private space, where people would feel relaxed and comfortable and I could not be happier with how it’s turned out.

As a brand, we’re passionate about sustainability and an on-site recycling facility allows customers to recycle their used Sculpted by Aimee products and earn reward points.

I can’t describe the level of planning and hard work that has gone into the development of this store – months of planning to get every detail perfect and I am so proud of my team for all their hard work in bringing this incredible store to fruition.

Will there be any wedding specific services available at the store?

Yes! The Suite will be available for private bookings including hen parties, bridal parties, and other special occasions. We can’t wait to welcome more Sculpted brides into our beautiful new Victoria Square store.

After your own recent wedding and bride experience do you think you have a better idea of what your bride-to-be customer is looking for?

Absolutely. One of our most recent launches, ‘Love Story – The Wedding Palette’ was designed with my own wedding in mind. With the experience of having painted so many beautiful brides’ faces over the years, and knowing what I would love to see in one complete palette, this is my one-stop shop for the perfect bridal look.

Love Story – The Collection: Wedding Palette

It contains everything you need for a dreamy bridal, bridesmaid or wedding guest look, with eight carefully curated and universally flattering shades for the perfect occasion make-up; with two beautiful new shimmer shadows, a medium and dark matte shadow, a cream blush and highlighter and a powder bronzer.

I used this for my own bridal make-up, which I did myself using all Sculpted products and I felt incredible, all day long.

Pic: Instagram/Aimee Connolly

If you had to recommend just one thing for a bride’s make-up bag from your range on her wedding day, what would it be?

After years of giving guidance to brides and their bridal parties on the best touch-up products to use on the day, I have curated our must-have Sculpted Touch-Up Kits. The Touch-Up Kit includes the essential items every bride, bridesmaid or wedding guest needs, including a mini Velvet Veil powder, perfect for keeping an eye on shine for photos, without dulling your glow; your chosen Lip Duo with liner and long-lasting lipstick; Complete Cover-up Concealer to camouflage; and a one-stop brush, Complexion Duo, to get you through the day. It comes in a beautiful embossed faux leather bag, available with Bride, Bridesmaid, Maid of Honour or Mother of the Bride, making them the ideal bridesmaid treat or wedding guest getaway tool kit.

And then of course there’s our Love Story palette, which is a brilliant all-rounder and is also perfect for touch ups on the day, all in one handy palette.

For anyone yet to try Sculpted what products would you recommend starting with?

At Sculpted our mission is all about making it quick and easy to find your glow. We are famous for our foundations and bases, and this is where I always recommend people start as it’s the literal foundation for your make-up look.

From light and dewy options with built-in skincare in our Hydra Tint and Tint & Glow ranges, to our medium coverage Second Skin foundation, or Satin Silk, which offers a fuller coverage, there is an option to suit every taste, age and skin type. We’ve worked hard to build an extensive range, with up to 30 shades. Our virtual shade matching and try-ons tools on our website help customers find your perfect match online, whilst personalised shade-matching is available in person in our three stores, on Grafton Street, in Kildare Village and now in Victoria Square, Belfast.

Finally, what would be your top bridal beauty tip?

On your wedding day, you want to look like the best, elevated version of yourself, not someone entirely different. My top tip would be to think about the small, subtle tweaks that will make you feel special, whilst also ensuring you still look like yourself.

Perhaps choose a slightly different lipstick that’s in the shade family that you like to wear day-to-day but that is slightly different, so it feels special for the big day; we recently brought out two new shades in our popular Lip Duos with a long-lasting pigment and a soft, romantic hue Love Story (A nude, peach tone) and Perfect Match (a gorgeous romantic rose) for this very reason.

A trial in advance – with your make-up artist, or practice sessions if you’re doing your make-up yourself – will help you find your perfect make-up shades, to create a timeless look that you will look back on and love for many years to come.

WIN…

Enter now to win one of five Bridal Touch Up Kits that we have to give away! Competition closes on Friday 13th October 2023.

The post In Conversation With – Aimee Connolly appeared first on Wedding Journal.

WJS: La Bohéme Hub Take To The Bridal Catwalk

Margaret Connolly — Tue, 26 Sep 2023 16:31:47 +0000

The models on the bridal catwalk at The Wedding Journal Show will be showcasing hairstyles by Jordan Stewart and his team at La Bohéme.

Jordan Stewart became a hairdresser because he truly believed in the power to change peoples lives with a simple makeover of their hair. He has worked with the best hairdressers in the business to gain his experience.

After successfully working with the winning team on both the L’Oreal Colour Trophy and British Hairdressing Awards he decided to take this experience and pass it on to others. Jordan has worked with various education teams including Regis, Vidal Sassoon, Toni & Guy, Headmasters, GHD and Cloud Nine. His work has taken him from New York, London, Moscow to Sydney. Jordan’s’ work has been published in various magazines and he has worked on TV as the lead hairdresser on style makeover programmes.

In 2023 Jordan has been short-listed in the British Hairdressing Awards for Northern Ireland Hairdresser of the Year and the Irish Hairdressing Awards for Irish Hairdresser of the Year. Working out of La Bohéme Hub in Lisburn he works with a super creative team, who supply photography, make-up, beauty and even yoga.

La Bohéme Hub is a co-work space dedicated to hair, beauty, health and photography professionals who can work to their own hours, building a lifestyle that works for them. This unique space brings together a creative hub of professionals from congruent backgrounds to offer clients services all under one roof and holistic atmosphere.

WIN

Love is Everything Giveaway!

This package will cover the whole day with amazing bridal photography from Mesina Photo, hair by Jordan Stewart and make-up by Debbie McKibbin! The photographer will follow the happy couple and capture all important and special moments. Happy tears, real laughs, tight hugs, loving looks.

Prize Package Includes…..

Hair:

1. Trial for the bride

2. Bride’s hair on day

3. Mother of Bride on day

3. 2 x bridesmaids on the day.

Worth £500

Photography:

1. Pre-wedding one-hour love story shoot so we can meet before your big day and get to know each other! You will get up to 10 edited photos and a downloadable gallery. You can choose a memorable location or just a beautiful setting, a park where you first kissed or a cosy picnic on the beach?

2. Brides’ morning.

3. Arrival and the ceremony. Group photos after the ceremony.

4. One-hour “love story walk” after the ceremony.

5. Wedding speeches and the first dance.

6. Your own online personalised gallery with the ability to share with your family and friends.

7. I will send one retouched photo the next morning after your wedding so that you can share it with your loved ones and on social media.

8. The full set of photos will be complete within 3 weeks.

Worth: £1,500

Make-up:

1. Bridal makeup application on location for the bride on the morning of the wedding.

2. Bridal makeup trial and consultation. At the trial, we chat about the overall theme of the wedding. The makeup style has to enhance your personality not take it over. It is very important to work together to make you look and feel your very best and exude confidence.

Worth £250

Total Giveaway Value £2,250

TO ENTER: At The Wedding Journal Show Head to the La Bohéme Hub stand number G25. The winners will be announced on La Bohéme Hub’s social media on 14th of October.

*We reserve the right to use all images for our promotional purposes on line and in print.

The post WJS: La Bohéme Hub Take To The Bridal Catwalk appeared first on Wedding Journal.

WIN A Luxurious Mini Moon At Clontarf Castle (CLOSED)

Margaret Connolly — Thu, 21 Sep 2023 09:00:00 +0000

The Wedding Journal Show has partnered with Clontarf Castle to offer one lucky couple the chance to enjoy a luxurious two-night mini-moon.

The prize includes two nights bed and breakfast with dinner on both nights and is open to all visitors to The Wedding Journal Show in Titanic Exhibition Centre on Saturday 30th & Sunday 1st October 2023.

Simply purchase your ticket to The Wedding Journal Show online or ENTER AT THE WEDDING JOURNAL STAND E1 on the day to be in with the chance of winning this fantastic break for two!

Set in idyllic surroundings, Clontarf Castle is a romantic 12th century castle that offers the perfect blend of traditional castle with modern interior design, exceptional facilities and a warm welcome for which the team are renowned. With a contemporary art gallery adorning the walls, a stunning atrium lobby, beautifully landscaped gardens and an outdoor terrace, there are few settings as romantic as this exceptional 12^th century castle venue.

Only a short drive from Dublin city centre, Clontarf Castle Hotel is a stunning backdrop for brides and grooms looking to create the wedding day of their dreams. For more information on the wedding packages available at Clontarf Castle Hotel and to ensure you remember your wedding day for years to come.

For further information contact info@clontarfcastle.ie or phone +353 (0)1 833 2321. clontarfcastle.ie

T&Cs Apply

The winner will be contacted on Monday 2nd October
Prize is two nights bed and breakfast with dinner on both nights.
Booking is subject to availability. Not valid on bank holiday weekends, Christmas or New Year’s.
Prize value €800
No cash alternative.
Prize is not transferable.
Valid for 12 months until 31st October 2024.

CLICK HERE FOR DISCOUNTED TICKETS TO THE WEDDING JOURNAL SHOW BELFAST!

The post WIN A Luxurious Mini Moon At Clontarf Castle (CLOSED) appeared first on Wedding Journal.

Friday WIN: Anna Diamond Jewellery (CLOSED)

Margaret Connolly — Wed, 20 Sep 2023 09:00:00 +0000

Have you entered to WIN with The Wedding Journal Show and the Cool FM Breakfast Show? This Friday 22nd September 2023 there’s the chance to WIN a £1,200 voucher for Anna Diamond Jewellery.

The winner will get to enjoy spending a £1,200 voucher in the Anna Diamond Jewellery store in Holywood Co. Down.

With love and devotion to what she does, Anna, Director of Anna Diamond Jewellery, has been serving her customers with rare, luxury, high quality jewellery for 25 years.

‘Like most women, I too am a lover of fine quality diamonds, precious stones and quality jewellery so I simply love the business that I’m in and I pride myself on having an eye for design and stylish pieces,’ comments Anna.

Anna continues, ‘Having established Anna Diamond Jewellery Limited online in 2017, most recently, in December 2022, I was thrilled to open my first retail store at 99 High Street, Holywood, where I specialise in natural diamonds and stones and jewellery of fine quality from many parts of the world.

‘What I love about the fact that I now have retail premises is that I can offer a unique experience to my customers, especially those that are choosing both engagement and wedding rings. Clients can book a private appointment, and visit the shop to take time together to choose, what is likely to be, one of their most treasured pieces of jewellery.’

With a range of earrings and necklaces, bracelets and bangles, wedding and engagement rings in yellow and white gold, platinum and silver, Anna has chosen a range of pieces suited to any occasion, so whether you are planning the ‘big day’, buying a gift or celebrating a birthday or anniversary, be sure to pay a visit to Anna Diamond Jewellery.

All of the T&Cs for this prize worth £1,200 from Anna Diamond Jewellery can be read when you enter here

The post Friday WIN: Anna Diamond Jewellery (CLOSED) appeared first on Wedding Journal.

Thursday WIN: Freddie Hatchet Fine Tailoring

Margaret Connolly — Tue, 19 Sep 2023 09:00:00 +0000

Have you entered to WIN with The Wedding Journal Show and the Cool FM Breakfast Show? This Thursday 21st September 2023 there’s the chance to WIN a £1,000 voucher towards suiting from Freddie Hatchet Fine Tailoring.

The winner will also enjoy a VIP fitting experience when the team at Freddie Hatchet will close the store especially for the wedding party ensuring they have the entire showroom to yourselves. Plus there will be a complimentary bar throughout the entire fitting experience!

With stores located in Belfast and Cookstown, Freddie Hatchet boast the most exciting groomswear range in the UK.

Whether a velvet tuxedo or a tweed suit, they have an exclusive range of suits available to either hire, buy or a combination of both.

Freddie Hatchet offers grooms and their groomsmen a relaxed atmosphere in which to shop and the staff have a wealth of knowledge to ensure you look sharp, but feel yourself on your wedding day.

Check out their unique wedding party offers in store, where you are guaranteed to find high end suits at high street prices!

During the two days of The Wedding Journal Show in Titanic Exhibition Centre, Belfast on Saturday 30th September and Sunday 1st October, the team from Freddie Hatchet will be showcasing all of their latest suiting and look forward to chatting with you about the service they offer.

All of the T&Cs for this prize worth £1,000 from Freddie Hatchet Fine Tailoring can be read when you enter here

The post Thursday WIN: Freddie Hatchet Fine Tailoring appeared first on Wedding Journal.

Wednesday WIN: Orchid Bridal Studio

Margaret Connolly — Mon, 18 Sep 2023 10:46:27 +0000

Have you entered to WIN with The Wedding Journal Show and the Cool FM Breakfast Show? This Wednesday 20th September 2023 there’s the chance to WIN a £1,000 voucher towards a wedding dress from Orchid Bridal Studio.

Orchid Bridal Studio is offering one lucky winner a voucher worth £1,000 to redeem against any wedding dress in their bridal boutique in Portadown. The winner will also enjoy a VIP fitting experience!

Located in their beautifully decorated timeless studio just off Portadown’s Main Street, Orchid Bridal studio have over 20 years of experience in the bridal industry, and they pride themselves in offering an exclusive one to one personal but professional service to all of their brides.

Every bride enjoys her own individual appointment and with their help and expertise they can assure you that you will find the dress to suit your wedding theme and style from their range of award-winning bridal designers including Justin Alexander, Sincerity, Allure, Aire Barcelona, Winderley, Adore and Abella.

During the two days of The Wedding Journal Show in Titanic Exhibition Centre, Belfast on Saturday 30th September and Sunday 1st October, Orchid Bridal Studio will be on hand with a selection of their gorgeous dresses for you come along and see for yourself and meet their expert style team!

All of the T&Cs for this prize worth £1,000 from Orchid Bridal Studio can be read when you enter here

The post Wednesday WIN: Orchid Bridal Studio appeared first on Wedding Journal.

Tuesday WIN: Martina Collins Dental & Skin Clinic

Margaret Connolly — Sun, 17 Sep 2023 14:21:14 +0000

Have you entered to WIN with The Wedding Journal Show and the Cool FM Breakfast Show? This Tuesday 19th September 2023 there’s the chance to WIN dental and skin treatments from Martina Collins Dental & Skin Clinic.

Martina Collins in an award-winning Dental and Skin Clinic offering a wide range of services to get you ready for your big day and they are offering one lucky winner a combined dental and skin package worth £750.

When it comes to giving you that perfect smile for photographs on your wedding day Martin Collins Dental & Skin Clinic can provide teeth aligners, teeth whitening and their most popular cosmetic dental treatment, composite bonding.

Their skin therapists can do a number of anti-aging and skin rejuvenating treatments. SkinPen Microneedling, Emface, Oxygen Facials, Obagi Skin Peels, CoolSculpting and IPL Laser therapy for hair removal, vein removal and redness of the skin.

While this prize doesn’t include any injectable skin treatments, the skin team can provide you with a wide range of injectable treatments, from hair rejuvenation, skin boosters, anti-wrinkle injections and filler. They have two highly commendable plastic surgeons and the principal of the clinic Martina Collins herself providing these treatments.

During the two days of The Wedding Journal Show in Titanic Exhibition Centre, Belfast on Saturday 30th September and Sunday 1st October, the team from Martina Collins Dental & Skin Clinic will be offering exclusive show only discount offers on selected treatments and will help you get to where you want to be before your big day!

All of the T&Cs for this combined dental and skin prize worth £750 from Martina Collins Dental & Skin Clinic can be read when you enter here

The post Tuesday WIN: Martina Collins Dental & Skin Clinic appeared first on Wedding Journal.

How To Plan A Small Wedding & WOW Your Guests

Margaret Connolly — Fri, 15 Sep 2023 12:06:50 +0000

Just because you prefer a small guest list, doesn’t mean you can’t go big on other details! Here’s our guide to planning your small wedding.

Not everyone wants the big, white wedding or has the option to have one. Instead smaller weddings are growing in popularity as people choose to surround themselves with just their closest loved ones. With a more intimate guest list, you can focus on creating a personal and unforgettable experience for you and your guests.

Strategically Plan Your Guest List

Every single person you invite to a wedding this size should be someone that is close to you and you can’t imagine marrying without them there. You can also keep numbers down by opting out of the traditional wedding party other than a best man and one bridesmaid.

Be Creative With Your Venue

Fewer people on the guest list means the world is your oyster when it comes to choosing a venue. From non-traditional venues like bars and restaurants to those unexpected spaces in traditional venues that are perfect for smaller celebrations. Even if you do fall for a larger space, you can make it feel more intimate with decorative detailing such as ceiling drapes, trees around the perimeter of the space and your table layout.

Invest In Your Photographer & Videographer

A fantastic photographer and videographer are a great investment, no matter how many guests will be in attendance, but a smaller guest list may mean more opportunities to capture sentimental moments which you can cherish for years to come.

Make It Memorable

A smaller wedding means that you can go all out on the details. Remember to design the space, not just the tables – consider lights, plants, fabrics, scents and anything else that will create an ambience.

The Guest Experience

With a smaller guest list, you’ll have the funds to make the guest experience all the richer. Kick this off by arranging a cool way to transport your guests between the ceremony and reception, such as VW camper vans air a vintage school bus.

Focus On The Food

If you’re not feeding a huge crowd, you have more room for a detailed menu. Whether you’re wishing for a seven-course meal with expert wine pairings, an elaborate buffet, or a fun food truck on-site, the options are infinite with a smaller wedding.

Table Talk

Depending on what your venue can accommodate and the numbers attending your wedding you don’t have to stick with the traditional round table set up – unless you want to – and look at other options such a one or two long reception tables or a U-shaped set up to make everyone feel connected.

Stylish Tablescapes

Don’t be afraid to go all out with a stunning tablescape. Adding elements such as bold table linens and coloured glassware will really set your wedding décor apart. Smaller weddings allow you to go all out on these little details and ensure your wedding style makes a big impression!

Play With Place Settings

Design a really beautiful place setting for each guest if you’re hosting a seated dinner. This is such a great opportunity to go all out with a stunning set-up. Just remember to give them enough elbow room and easy access to the essentials like water, wine and so on.

Personalise Place Cards

Place cards offer so much opportunity for customisation, and with a smaller guest list there are fewer to make or buy. Opt for a personalised touch with calligraphed place cards for each guest. Make them even more special by leaving a handwritten note sharing your most treasured memory with them.

Go Bold With Plenty of Florals

A smaller wedding might free up more budget for show-stopping floral displays. Whether they are hanging from the ceiling or draped over the chairs and tables, you can create a really romantic atmosphere with an abundance of flowers, especially when interspersed with candles.

A Sweet Touch

With fewer guests, you’ll need less cake. Therefore you can take a non-traditional approach or chat with your cake maker about sticking with the tiered approach if that’s what you love.

Be Thoughtful With Activities

Decide what is important to you and your partner and skip the things that don’t matter. For example, if you and many of your guests aren’t really into dancing it’s easier to forgo this kind of activity at smaller wedding and replace it with one everyone will enjoy.

Hire A Live Band

Live music is your best bet for a small wedding. A small wedding is all about connection, and live music is ideal for this. You don’t want a huge band that feels disproportionate to the number of guests either; a three or four-piece is perfect.

Incorporate Family Heirlooms

Peppering in small, memorable touches is much simpler in a more petite space with fewer guests. Consider incorporating family heirlooms such as vintage china or silver to make the day that much more sentimental.

Read this feature and more in our free August/September digital issue here

The post How To Plan A Small Wedding & WOW Your Guests appeared first on Wedding Journal.

Melissa & David’s Stylish Celebrations

Margaret Connolly — Fri, 15 Sep 2023 10:58:00 +0000

Originally from Co. Armagh, newlyweds Melissa Elliott, a model, stylist and content creator, and her husband David Kenny, live in Belfast and organised a swoon-worthy celebration in Co. Meath.

WEDDING DATE: 2nd March 2023

How did you two meet?

We met back in 2014. We were introduced by a mutual friend who I worked with and David played rugby with. For our first date, David took me to a local fried chicken restaurant – unbeknownst to him I was a vegetarian at the time – I thought it was hilarious! We had a few more fantastic dates to Dublin and music concerts over the next few months and the rest was history.

Tell us about the proposal.

I had always joked about us getting engaged before I turned 30 – David took this very literally and on the eve of my 30th birthday last year, he proposed. It was perfect, at home, candles lit, flowers and birthday presents on the table. I originally thought he had planned a cute evening to celebrate my birthday, but instead he got down on one knee, with Arlo (our golden retriever) by his side – exactly as I had dreamt.

How did the planning process go?

We took a month to enjoy ourselves after getting engaged and then started planning in August last year. Once we decided on a wedding venue and were able to secure a date for the following March, everything else fell into place. Being together for nine years until that point meant we knew what we wanted, so we planned everything in just over six months. Thankfully, with it being a March wedding, it meant that our preferred suppliers were available for then. I’ve worked in the creative industry for many years, so that made the planning feel rather smooth.

I hand-stitched a hoop with each of the guests initials on it as a wedding favours – it sounds crazy but the process brought me a sense of calm in between all the planning, and I wanted to have something super personal for each of our family and friends to take home and remember our day. Not a single embroidery hoop was left behind.

We also made our own guest invites which was a great money saver and stayed relatively hassle free apart from a few ink shortages!

Where was your wedding venue?

We both feel in love with Tankardstown House in Co. Meath and the moment we visited their Showcase in August, we knew it was perfect. The staff were so warm and welcoming, and the setting was incredible. We knew we wanted somewhere that had both an inside and outside ceremony option to allow flexibility depending on the weather. Tankardstown has stunning gardens and an equally stunning Orangery inside – the minute we stepped into the Orangery we knew we had found our venue. They also have beautiful on-site lodging for friends and family to stay, and the venue is dog-friendly which was the cherry on top for us.

Gemma, Fran and the entire staff at Tankardstown made every moment feel warm and special. Nothing was ever too much to ask and they truly made our day better than we could have imagined. We are so thankful to them.

Who were your wedding suppliers?

We chose Lindsey from The Wildflower not just for her skill in floristry, but for her passion, her personality and for her kindness from start to finish. She filled the room with greenery, flowers and candles and presented us with our dream wedding vision, beyond what we had discussed over coffee a few weeks before the wedding. I couldn’t recommend her more and we now see her as a friend and florist.

Having worked in the creative industry for years, I’m so lucky to be surrounded by such talented friends – on the morning of the wedding, my make-up was done by Elanna, founder of Pearl Beauty, who has done my make-up many times before for work and so was such a calming presence. She made the morning feel relaxed and fun, and topped up my make-up throughout the day. It was an honour to have her there.

My hair was done by my friend first, hairdresser second – James Wallace. We have known each other for 15 years and he has worked with me through every stage of my career as a model. He is incredibly skilled, super quick and a completely no fuss hairdresser and it was a joy to have him with me on the morning of the wedding and throughout the day.

Given we wanted to have the ceremony and reception at Tankardstown House, such a huge role for us was to find a celebrant. We first met Mel Cronin at the Tankardstown Showcase and she simply glows with warmth and kindness. We booked her instantly and I’m so glad we did. She wrote and read our love story as a gift and surprise to us at the wedding. She truly made our ceremony feel like home.

We went for a simple two-tiered cake with gold embellishment from Baked by Corri. David’s sister used Corri back in 2019 and we followed her work since then. We had fun, each choosing a flavour and she made, delivered, and displayed the cake for us. It was delicious and I hope to order another cake from her on our anniversary. We also added a small gold hoop with a porcelain dove from my grandparent’s wedding cake. My granny kept this for me after telling her as a child how I’d love to have it if I get married one day. A very special moment and memory.

We both knew we wanted an upbeat band who could seamlessly do modern songs alongside wedding classics with the hope that they also had a saxophone player. We saw a promo video for A Few Good Men online that included a 90s dance megamix and knew they were the perfect fit. Glenn was great during the initial discussions of how the timings and songs selections would work for us. On the day they were superb at reading what songs the guests loved and were able to adapt to ensure the dance floor was thriving the whole night.

Who captured your day?

I always knew I’d love Adam & Grace to someday photograph our wedding. Grace was the first photographer to photograph me as a model, back when I was 17 years old, so it felt like a perfect full circle moment. They are an extremely talented team, and I was so pleased to find out they had availability for our wedding day. The photographs are such a dream, and they captured everything perfectly.

We used Darragh from Forever Endeavour for our video – we wanted a video filled with candid shots of friends and family and Darragh captured it all beautifully. The editing and audio production was second to none. Also, with David being a drone pilot, having drone footage in the video was an important detail for us.

What did you wear?

I knew I wanted to support Ivory & Pearl, and of course, they knew what dress I loved even before I did. I tried on a handful of different styles but kept going back to a Sarah Seven dress. I wanted something simple, yet classic, and I felt myself wearing it. I’ll always love the memory of collecting the dress and bringing it home. I paired the dress with a short veil (also from Ivory & Pearl) soft blue Jimmy Choo shoes which I found at Kildare Village, and gold earrings from a long-term favourite local brand of mine, Lines & Current.

The bridesmaid dresses were custom made by one of my bridesmaids, Clare. She made each in a stunning champagne silk to perfectly fit herself, Emma and Debbie. Also, the ‘dresses’ are actually a skirt and top – so hopefully my bridesmaids will be able to wear them again afterwards and have each piece as part of their wardrobes for a long time.

For David, the groom’s party and both our dad’s, they rented suits from Red Belfast. Initially David had looked at wearing a navy suit but then after speaking to the team at Red and seeing some previous wedding photos from Tankardstown, we decided a black tux was a perfect complement to the venue. Arlo also had a matching bow tie that we found on Etsy – he stole the spotlight!

What was your favourite moment from the day?

Having our parents and family altogether throughout the entire day was the best feeling. They’ve been with us and supported us through our almost 10 years together and we love each of them deeply.

Being able to have our sweet golden retriever Arlo walk down the aisle was such a fun moment – the photos Adam & Grace took of him are truly our favourite. We loved having him at the wedding and I think all our family and friends did also. He was a great ice breaker and made everyone laugh and smile.

The Orangery at Tankardstown took our breath away – we had such a vision of how we wanted it to look for both the ceremony and throughout the day and Lindsey from The Wildflower, along with the Tankardstown team, truly blew our minds and went above and beyond what we had imagined. It was perfect.

Finally, the food. From our initial canapé tasting at the Showcase, we knew that Tankardstown had exceptional food made on site by the team there. We had both our parents down for the tasting menu and they were all blown away by how good the food options were. We loved that the packages provided by Tankardstown had the option of canapés, evening food and uniquely the choice of main course on the day. We had a few guests with strict dietary requirements and the team at Tankardstown went out of their way to be able to provide the same level of food for them. Even the range of breakfast food options the next day was incredible. The food was absolutely brilliant from start to finish.

Do you have any planning advice for other brides or grooms?

What we found surprisingly helpful was having a shorter planning time for the wedding, as it provided a cut-off for organising everything and really helped us to focus and make decisions. We also got married on a Thursday which allowed most of our guests to take the next day off and have a long weekend too!

The wedding day will feel like a whirlwind, so try to take a few moments throughout it and take in any key details, smells, faces, words and stories that surround you. It’s honestly such a remarkable day and everyone there adores you both and wants the best for you and your partner.

Finally, Organise your key elements and then the rest will fall into place – you’ve got this!

Melissa & David’s DREAM TEAM

Celebrant Mel Cronin, The Eloquent Celebrant

Venue Tankardstown House

Photography Adam and Grace

Videographer Forever Endeavour

Dress Sarah Seven from Ivory & Pearl

Bridesmaid Dresses: Clare Graham

Suits Red Belfast

Flowers The Wildflower

Cake Baked by Corri

Makeup Elanna McGowan, Pearl Beauty

Hair: James Wallace

Rings Gardiner Brothers

Jewellery Lines & Current

Shoes Jimmy Choo from Kildare Village

Band A Few Good Men

The post Melissa & David’s Stylish Celebrations appeared first on Wedding Journal.

Chantelle Walsh is the Ultimate Wedding Planner!

Margaret Connolly — Fri, 15 Sep 2023 09:00:00 +0000

If you’ve been watching BBC Two’s Ultimate Wedding Planner you’ll know Chantelle Walsh from Belfast, was crowned the winner of the show. Here Chantelle tells us about the overall experience and how it has helped her grow her business.

Now that you have been crowned winner of Ultimate Wedding Planner, what do you receive?

I won a tailored prize package to help launch my own wedding planning business, along with mentoring from Raj. For someone like myself venturing out into the world of wedding and event planning with my own business, this kind of support is invaluable. As a single mother, I was hesitant to make that leap into running my own business, but thanks to the experience of the show and the ongoing support it has made it all less daunting.

Ultimate Wedding Planner Winner!

How did you hear about the show and what made you apply?

I am a former hairdresser and during Covid I was made redundant, so I decided to channel my creativity in another direction and started working with a Belfast-based business as a wedding planner. I have always been creative and discovered a real passion for the work I was doing and decided to put myself forward for Ultimate Wedding Planner.

I noticed the advert on Belfast Live for wedding planners for a new BBC show. I knew I had nothing to lose by putting myself forward and I was over the moon when I learnt that my application had been successful. Fortunately, I have a lot a lot of support from my parents and they were able to help with my son while I was away filming.

Ultimate Wedding Planner, Episode 3: Chantelle adding finishing touches to a ceremony area

For those that might have missed it, tell us a bit about the show?

The show saw us planning weddings for six real-life couples. Each week one contestant was expected to step up as the lead planner and working together we delivered what the couple were looking for within a £10k budget and turned it around in just three days. Judging us on our efforts each week were Dragons’ Den star Sara Davies, First Dates favourite Fred Sirieix and celebrity event planner, Raj Somaiya.

Has the experience been what you expected?

I didn’t have lots of expectations going into the show. Having only really started my career, I was excited to meet and learn from the other contestants as well as the judges. I have been surprised as I have worked through each project how my approach has changed. While I would have previously focused on the overall aesthetic of an event, I have learnt that the guest experience is so much more important. So, when I sit down to do a consultation I now address the overall atmosphere that my clients want to create and how all the elements of the event will impact on the guests and their enjoyment of the event and take it from there. This was a complete 360 for me as I wouldn’t have taken into account how the beautiful floral display might have impacted a guest’s view of things and so on.

Ultimate Wedding Planner, Episode 3: Head Planner Chantelle creating a balloon arch

What was the best moment on the show for you?

Apart from making it to the final two and winning, episode three when I stepped up to be the lead planner was definitely my best moment. Until that point I had been uncharacteristically shy and suffering with imposter syndrome. I was afraid to speak as people didn’t seem to understand my accent, but I had no choice but to do so in this moment and afterwards there was no stopping me! I’m a naturally bubbly person and this wasn’t coming across because I had lost my confidence, but taking on this challenge was exactly what was needed to bring me out of my shell.

What has the show taught you?

As I have mentioned before, prior to the show I was all about the aesthetics of the event and how everything looked, possibly at the expense of the guest experience, which accounts for a massive 70 per cent of your planning. I have also found my confidence and truly believe in myself and what I am doing.

Ultimate Wedding Planner Contestants L-R: Bernie, Shabana, Toby, Yasmin, Jack, Charlene, Tash & winner Chantelle

What’s next?

Winning the show is a dream come true and it has certainly helped get my name out there and I have seen my social media following increase, and in turn, the awareness of my business. I have been working on lots of exciting projects both here in Ireland and the UK and I’m excited for the future and know I have so much more to offer my clients as I move forward with my wedding and event planning business.

If you missed it, don’t worry you can watch the Ultimate Wedding Planner on BBC iPlayer.

We are delighted to announce that Chantelle will be joining us on the WEDTalk stage at The Wedding Journal Show in the Titanic Exhibition Centre Belfast on Sat 30th Sept & Sun 1^stOct and sharing her wedding planning expertise at 1pm on both days.

The post Chantelle Walsh is the Ultimate Wedding Planner! appeared first on Wedding Journal.

Monday WIN: The Rabbit Hotel & Retreat

Margaret Connolly — Thu, 14 Sep 2023 13:25:58 +0000

Have you entered to WIN with The Wedding Journal Show and the Cool FM Breakfast Show? This Monday 18th September 2023 there’s the chance to WIN a break for two at The Rabbit Hotel & Retreat.

Part of the Galgorm Collection, The Rabbit Hotel & Ret reat is Galgorm’s sassy little sister and burrowed in the heart of Templepatrick, it exudes a free spirit attitude with a sleek, modern environment and they are offering one lucky couple has the chance to win a Full Works Package for two worth £600!

This prize includes an overnight Stay in a Comfy guest room with outdoor bathtub; access to The Spa from 12noon on the day of arrival, you will also experience total relaxation with a detoxifying private duo clay ritual and a 60-minute treatment from your choice and a three course dinner in the resort’s restaurant and breakfast the following morning.

Don’t Miss Their Autumn Wedding Open Day

The Rabbit Hotel & Retreat is home to Northern Ireland’s most iconic wedding venue, The Loft, which offers an ethereal backdrop for your fairytale wedding. |You can step into the magic of this iconic venue at their Autumn Wedding Open Day on Thursday 12th October from 5-9pm.

As well as offering an alternate setting for your wedding, The Loft has a One Wedding A Day policy. This exclusive-use venue offers an environment of unabridged luxury, available for weddings from 100 to 150 of your closest family and friends.

A New Ceremony Space is Unveiled

Set within beautiful surrounds and gardens, the Rabbit Hotel & Retreat have recently unveiled The Boathouse as the perfect wedding ceremony space for wedding couples looking for a venue that embodies the beauty of the great outdoors, for unique, stunning wedding pictures that you’ll cherish forever. Couples can exchange their vows on-site, before celebrating their nuptials in The Loft.

Oozing character and charm, as well as offering impressive views over the terrace, and lake beyond, The Boathouse can accommodate weddings and civil partnerships for up to 120 guests in a bright and airy space in which to say ‘I do.’ Whether you want to be married by a registrar, your own minister, a Humanist or other celebrant, the team of wedding planners at The Rabbit can advise and help you plan the perfect day.

All of the T&Cs for the Full Works Package for Two at The Rabbit Hotel & Retreat can be read when you enter here

The post Monday WIN: The Rabbit Hotel & Retreat appeared first on Wedding Journal.

WIN Prizes with WJS & Cool FM Breakfast Show

Margaret Connolly — Sun, 10 Sep 2023 21:15:48 +0000

The Wedding Journal Show has partnered with the Cool FM Breakfast Show and five of our exhibitors to giveaway a fantastic selection of prizes that will give brides and grooms a helping hand when it comes to organising their special day!

The competition is now open for entry and you can register your interest to take part here prior to the on-air competition on The Breakfast Show with Pete, Paulo and Rebecca throughout the week beginning Monday 18th September.

MONDAY 18th September: The Rabbit Hotel & Retreat

PRIZE: The Full Works Package for two worth £600 includes an overnight stay in a comfy guest room with outdoor bathtub; access to The Spa from 12noon on day of arrival where you will experience total relaxation with a detoxifying private duo clay ritual and 60-minute treatment from your choice. Indulge in a three-course dinner in The Resort and Breakfast the following morning.

T&Cs: Package based on two guests sharing; Prize valid Monday to Friday, subject to availability. Excludes public and bank holidays; Prize must be redeemed by 31^st May 2024; The prize is not transferable and there is no cash alternative.

TUESDAY 19th September: Martina Collins Dental & Skin Clinic

PRIZE: Dental: Dental Consultation £80; Hygiene Appointment £60; Home Whitening Kit £290. Skin: Skin Consultation £55; Skin Peel £100; Oxygen Facial £100; Product of choice worth £65. Total Package value £750

T&Cs: The winner will have up to 12 months from the date of winning to claim this prize; The prize is not transferable and there is no cash alternative; If you are not suitable for whitening after a consultation, Martina Collins Dental & Skin Clinic will honour the value of the whitening dental treatment to something else; This prize is only redeemable at Martina Collins Dental & Skin Clinic, Lisburn Road, Belfast.

WEDNESDAY 20th September: Orchid Bridal Studio

PRIZE: £1,000 voucher to be redeemed against any wedding dress in their Portadown bridal boutique. The winner will also enjoy a VIP fitting experience.

T&Cs: The winner will have up to 12 months from the date of winning to claim this prize; The prize is not transferable; only valid towards the purchase of a wedding dress by the winner of the competition and not by anyone else; There is no cash alternative; Accessories are excluded from the prize.

THURSDAY 21st September: Freddie Hatchet Fine Tailoring

PRIZE: £1,000 which can be spent in any way in their Belfast store. VIP fitting experience: We will close the store especially for the wedding party ensuring they have the entire showroom to themselves. Complimentary bar throughout the entire fitting experience.

T&Cs: The date for the fitting experience must be agreed in advance to ensure exclusive access to the store; The winner will have up to 12 months from the date of winning to claim this prize; The prize is not transferable; There is no cash alternative.

FRIDAY 22nd September: Anna Diamond Jewellery

PRIZE: £1,200 voucher to be redeemed in store at Anna Diamond Jewellery, Holywood, Co. Down. Anna Diamond Jewellery have 25 years experience and specialise in natural diamonds and stones, and jewellery of fine quality from many parts of the world.

T&Cs: The voucher is valid until the end of September 2024 and redeemable against any jewellery in-store; The prize is not transferable; There is no cash alternative.

CLICK HERE TO ENTER TO WIN

To book tickets to The Wedding Journal Show click here

The post WIN Prizes with WJS & Cool FM Breakfast Show appeared first on Wedding Journal.

WJS: Meet The Wedding Experts

Margaret Connolly — Wed, 06 Sep 2023 10:43:40 +0000

The Wedding Journal Show in the Titanic Exhibition Centre Belfast on Saturday 30th September and Sunday 1st October offers brides and grooms everything they need to plan their dream day under one roof! This includes hearing directly from the wedding experts at our scheduled WEDTalk stage throughout the two days of the Show.

We are delighted to have expert wedding planner Chantelle Walsh, who has just won BBC Two’s Ultimate Wedding Planner on the WEDTalk stage at 1pm on both days of the Show!

Chantelle has learnt so much from her time on Ultimate Wedding Planner including how important the guest experience is and she will be sharing this with The Wedding Journal Show audience ensuring that your wedding not only looks the part but also ensures that your guests will be talking about it for years to come for all of the right reasons! As you will discover Chantelle is passionate about creating a day that everyone enjoys and is offering her invaluable advice when it comes to making sure you and your guests have the best day ever.

Winner of BBC Two’s Ultimate Wedding Planner, Chantelle Walsh

Also taking to the WEDTalk stage are:

Saturday 30th September

11.30am: Niamh McLaughlin, Niamh McLaughlin Media who will be offering her expert advice on ‘How To Get The Photographer That’s Right For You’

3pm: Rebecca Bryson from Curvy Chic Bridal will be looking at the latest dress trends and how to ensure you get the right fit for your shape.

3.30pm: Lisa Sparkes, The Beautiful Flower Co. who will be offering advice on wedding flowers and answering any questions you might have relating to everything from budgets to bouquets!

Sunday 1st October

11.30am: Laura Bizna from WOW Weddings will be talking ‘Tablescaping on a Budget’ impairing all her tips and tricks to ensure you get the look your want without blowing your budget!

3pm: A panel of experts from Belfast Skin Clinic will be discussing ‘Wedding-Ready Glow: Aesthetic Services for Brides, Grooms, Bridesmaids & More’ advising on suitable treatments and products that will ensure everyone looks and feels their best on the day.

To meet these experts and more at The Wedding Journal Show book your tickets here

The post WJS: Meet The Wedding Experts appeared first on Wedding Journal.

The Wedding Journal Show Belfast VIP Goodie Bag Reveal

Margaret Connolly — Mon, 28 Aug 2023 08:56:09 +0000

Ayu is the premium, multi-award-winning Irish cosmetics brand empowering real women to proudly, and confidently, embrace their individual beauty and they have partnered with us to gift their Instant Undereye Concealer to the VIP ticket holders attending The Wedding Journal Show Belfast.

“Ayu” – the Indonesian word for “very feminine/beautiful”, was founded in 2015 by Internationally renowned make-up artist Suzie O’Neill. What started as a collection of affordable, high-end brushes has now expanded into a revered range of make-up, skincare and tanning cosmetics, with each product inspired by Suzie’s extensive professional experience and the highest of quality, skin loving ingredients available on the market.

The Ayu Instant Undereye Concealer (€17), was developed by Suzie at her kitchen table and was born out of years of frustration with high coverage products that were too heavy for the delicate under eye area. This self-setting, light reflecting formula enriched with skin-hydrating hyaluronic acid will reduce the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles, without creasing or settling. The result is a highly pigmented, yet incredibly lightweight finish that will illuminate and colour correct the under-eye area for an instantly fresher, brighter, and more youthful look.

More About The Brand

Founder Suzie O’Neill is a big believer in the importance of good quality tools, she was surprised at how poor the quality of the make-up brushes provided in her student’s kits were. After much research, hard work and dedication, Ayu was born with their now famous brush collection, and has grown from strength to strength since – expanding to a full range of multi-award-winning make-up bag, tanning and skincare essentials.

One core mission lies at the heart of multi-award-winning Irish cosmetics brand, Ayu Cosmetics: to give women the tools and the knowledge to enhance their unique, natural beauty – not mask it.

That ethos lies behind the formulation of their premium, easy-to-apply range of cosmetics, especially designed to make achieving a natural, flawless look effortless – and it works. This Irish-owned, Irish-based brand have racked up an incredible 30 product awards, and garnered a dedicated, global fanbase of women who want the tools to look and feel great at any age.

Ayu’s incredible bestselling collection contains everything a woman would need to bring out her natural glow – from make-up bag essentials such as their multiple award-winning lightweight concealer (which VIP ticket holders will be lucky enough to get!) and hyaluronic acid infused foundations, to illuminating highlighters, eye-enhancing shadows, high pigment lipsticks, much-loved make-up brushes and natural instant tan. Their entire range is dermatologically tested, certified as cruelty free and kind to all skin types.

Ayu’s products are made right here in Ireland, and their entire range is dermatologically tested, vegan, certified as cruelty free and kind to all skin types. Ayu are also currently in the process of removing all plastic from their packaging.

Ayu’s full range of bestsellers are available to purchase in-store at Kildare Village, and online via www.Ayu.ie with international shipping options available.

You can also keep up to date with Ayu on Facebook, Instagram and YouTube.

To purchase VIP Tickets to The Wedding Journal Show Belfast and get one of these award-winning concealers to try for yourself click here

The post The Wedding Journal Show Belfast VIP Goodie Bag Reveal appeared first on Wedding Journal.

WIN VIP Tickets To The Wedding Journal Show Belfast (CLOSED)

Margaret Connolly — Fri, 18 Aug 2023 12:23:35 +0000

Ten lucky readers have the chance to win tickets and experience The Wedding Journal Show Belfast as our VIP guests!

The Wedding Journal Show Belfast on Saturday 30th September and Sunday 1st October at the Titanic Exhibition Centre in Belfast is the ultimate wedding planning day out. Doors open each day at 11am and close at 5pm, offering you plenty of time to enjoy all that is on offer under one roof.

If you are one of the lucky winners to experience The Wedding Journal Show as a VIP, the exclusive benefits include:

Luxury Goodie Bag

All 600 VIP tickets holders receive a luxurious goodie bag. To date natural skin care brand Trilogy are giving every VIP one of their cult favourite beauty products. The Trilogy ‘Everything Balm’ worth £15.50/€20.50 is a multipurpose beauty balm and a handbag essential for face and body.

Front Row Seating at the Bridal Catwalk

Our spectacular bridal catwalk show takes place daily at 12noon, 2pm and 4pm. This energetic extravaganza showcases the latest wedding dresses collection from leading bridal brands as well as suiting for grooms and the latest looks for bridesmaids and mothers of the bride and groom. Take note – you might enjoy this so much you’ll want to see it more than once!

Access to The VIP Lounge

The VIP Lounge offers a relaxing retreat for VIP guests to consolidate all their finds at the Show. It gives you a space to organise yourself and plan your day out at the show. From the Catwalk Show you wish to see, the Wed Talks you wish to attend, exhibitors you would like to meet face-to-face and so on.

A Complimentary Glass of Prosecco

You and your guest will be able to take a seat in the VIP lounge and sip on your complimentary glass of Prosecco and enjoy a sweet treat. This allows you to take some time out in a relaxed space while you discuss all of the ideas and offers you have seen to date at the Show and who you still need to visit or what you want to see.

Fast Track Entry

No self-respecting VIP would stand and a queue , so we make sure you don’t have to! Your VIP ticket ensures you skip the crowds and get access to the show on arrival.

TO ENTER

To be in with a chance of winning a pair of VIP tickets, simply fill in your details below.

Winners will be selected at random. Competition closes on Friday the 15th of August 2023.

The post WIN VIP Tickets To The Wedding Journal Show Belfast (CLOSED) appeared first on Wedding Journal.

Roisin & Nick’s Picture Perfect Wedding Day

Margaret Connolly — Fri, 18 Aug 2023 08:46:13 +0000

Lifestyle and beauty influencer Roisin Doherty and her husband Nick Irvine wed at the stunning Beech Hill Country House.

WEDDING DATE: 6th May 2023

How did you two meet?

Roisin jokes while reminiscing, ‘We met in the traditional way…through Instagram back in 2017!’ Nick is adamant that Roisin used to comment emojis under his posts and that grabbed his attention! Roisin says different and jokes that Nick tortured her. ‘We connected soon after, arranged a date and we have been inseparable ever since’ says Roisin.

When did you get engaged?

‘It was 5th May 2021; we had arranged a photo/video shoot for our family YouTube channel (The Docirvines).’ Roisin was blissfully unaware that Nick had arranged everything with the photographers and that he was going to be popping the question with it all to be captured! ‘The sun was setting; we were strolling along Downhill Beach, just beneath the Mussendem Temple. Nick composed himself and dropped on one knee, asking me to marry him surrounded by our kids. It was just perfect!’

Tell us a bit about your wedding planning.

‘The week after we got engaged, we viewed a few venues as we were on such a high! Then life kicked in and with running multiple businesses, the wedding planning quickly came to a standstill.’ One day in the office, they both decided it was time to jump back into the wedding planning and booked a viewing at Beech Hill Country House. ‘We instantly fell in love! What sealed the deal for us was the staff and their outdoor forest ceremony area. I could envisage us standing under the trees with our nearest and dearest.’ Roisin came up with the idea of having a black-tie wedding, but going a step further and asking all guests to dress in black!

‘Having received our wedding photos, it was the best decision we made. Everyone looked so classy, elegant and timeless.’

Who captured your day?

‘Our videographers were Irvine Wedding Film. We have worked with these guys for a long time now and have become good friends with them over the years! They captured our engagement beautifully and they are such nice people and a joy to work with. They just get us and our vision which makes it so easy! ‘Our photographer was Agape Wedding Photo & Film. We came across them on social media and instantly fell in love with their dreamy content. Simon is such a humble guy and is unbelievably talented, it felt like we had known him for years and made us feel comfortable in front of the camera.’

What did you wear?

Roisin explains, ‘I found my dream dress, bridesmaids and flower girls dresses all under the one roof. It was the first place I tried! I really didn’t know what style of dress I wanted but, in the end, I fell in love with a simplistic ballroom style gown designed by Badgley Mischka. ‘The girls in Petticoat Lane Bridal were incredible from start to finish. They even came the morning of the wedding to help us all get ready! I worked closely with the lovely designer Andrea, owner of Dinky Draya to design our bespoke bridesmaids and flower girls’ dresses. ‘Everyone who knows me knows that I am OBSESSED with bows – Andrea worked her magic and brought my vision to life.’ Nick goes on to explain how they both love supporting local. ‘It was great to get all the men kitted out in another one-stop-shop on our doorstep: Nineteen83 Gentleman’s Fashion. ‘All the groomsmen were dressed in black velvet tux jackets and bow ties. I opted for a black velvet waistcoat to differentiate.’

What was your favourite moment from the day?

‘When I was standing at the top of the steps, just before I walked down the aisle,’ says Roisin, who adds, ‘Taking in the moment, with all my nearest and dearest and seeing my vision become a reality!’ Nick goes on to say, ‘For me I’ll never forget the moment that I heard the music that Roisin walked down the aisle to and the moment I turned around and laid eyes on her. That will stay with me to the day I die!’

Do you have any advice for other brides or grooms currently planning their wedding?

Roisin says, ‘Just enjoy the process, don’t listen to other people’s opinions – do what you want to do, remember it’s your wedding.’ Nick adds, ‘Trust your vendors! This isn’t their first rodeo! It can be stressful organising a wedding, so take their advice and let them do their job!’

Roisin & Nick’s DREAM TEAM

Venue Beech Hill Country House

Photography Agape Stories

Videography Irvine Wedding Film

Venue Décor Styling The Wedding Room NI

Wedding Dress Petticoat Lane Bridal

Bridesmaids & Flower Girls Dinky Draya at Petticoat Lane Bridal

Suits Nineteen83 Gentleman’s Fashion

Flowers Innocent Chaos

Hair Hidden Hair

Make-up Louise Lavery

The post Roisin & Nick’s Picture Perfect Wedding Day appeared first on Wedding Journal.

Chloe & Declan’s Sentimental Summer Celebrations

Margaret Connolly — Fri, 18 Aug 2023 08:37:45 +0000

Influencer and alopecia sufferer raising awareness of this autoimmune disorder, Chloe Sheehan and her partner Declan Dinneen, both from Cork, share their summer wedding with us.

How did you two meet?

We met in 2015 when my friend Colette married Declan’s cousin Trevor. Declan always speaks about spotting me in the church that day and discussing ‘the girl in the green dress’ at dinner but it wasn’t until late in the night when we were on the dance floor that he plucked up the courage to chat to me. Shut up and dance with me was playing and its now such a special song for us.

When did you get engaged?

We got engaged in October 2021. Two or three times a year Declan would take me on a surprise date, usually to a restaurant that I have been banging on about wanting to go to. It was a random week in October and on the Wednesday he told me he was taking me out Friday. I knew it was in the East Cork direction because he said we would drop the dog to his sister’s and we would stay there for the night. I was ready early so I suggested we leave early and have a glass of wine with his sister. We set off and as Declan missed the turn off for Cloyne, I asked where he was going? He said that there was a big cruise liner taking off from Cobh and he wanted to go to have a look as we were so early. This didn’t seem out of character for Declan as we once went to view a tractor en route to a wedding!

As we got up to Fort Davis in Whitegate I couldn’t see any boat. It was misty and I was complaining my wig was getting wet and my feet were getting sore from my heels. Declan was adamant we waited another few minutes. From afar I heard a buzzing noise, we soon realised it was a drone and as it got closer I was hiding my face and said to Declan, “oh no someone’s trying to get photos of the liner and here I am all dolled up ruining the shot”. Declan said, “what’s hanging off it and I turned to see the words – “Will you marry me” and I turned back around to Declan who was on one knee. He had arranged the whole thing with one of my really good friends from SpeirTime and they had tiny hidden cameras in the bushes. Fort Davis is where we went on our first date and will forever hold such a special place in our hearts.

How did the planning process go?

Once we got engaged we had the venue booked in about five weeks. I’m a very organised person and with my alopecia I promised myself I would not get stressed out about the wedding, so I thought the earlier we booked everything, the more time we would have to plod along and enjoy the moment. I have planned many charity events since from the age of 15 so I knew we wouldn’t need a wedding planner. From the proposal to the wedding was 20 months and it was the perfect amount of time in my opinion. I love details, so there were lots of different details about our wedding and I feel I couldn’t have done it all any faster without being totally stressed out.

Tell us a bit more about your wedding day?

We had our wedding ceremony in Saint Lactheen’s Church, Donoughmore. My grandmother was Sacristan here for over 50 years when she died and I have lovely memories of going up to the church to ring the bell at 12 and six. We also used a chalice with her name engraved on it that the church got when she passed, so it was all extra special to us.

We had our reception at The Dunloe Hotel and Gardens. We had viewed a few venues and Declan is very chill so he didn’t say much, however when we viewed The Dunloe, the hotel was closed, it was dark and empty and Declan walked out of there and said “I LOVE IT”, so I knew that if he loved it closed that he would adore it when it was open and had more atmostphere, so I booked it on the drive home!

Our church flowers were done by Wonderous Weddings and our venue flowers were done by Tie the Knot. We had a full day music by the amazing Riff Shop and when it came to the food and drink, we spent some time with Nico, The Dunloe’s Mixologist, designing our wedding cocktails. We had “An Espresso Dinneeni” and “Keen to be a Dinneen”. We worked hard on the ingredients and presentation and the hotel just made this process so smooth!

Jeanette Cronin and Joanne Sexton did our make-up and our hair was styled by Emma from Cathyanne Bridal Hair.

As well as the poems I had written for the guests, our wedding favours included keyrings of photos of the guests entering the church from Clikring, we also had hand-poured heart wax melts of our personalised scent done by the amazing Twilight Wax Company. We had the amazing Pamela Kiely from TOAST, a wedding content service, and she was with us all day. Pamela has sent me thousands of clips and it’s so fun watching back the ‘behind the scenes’ footage!

Rounding off the day perfectly, were the amazing fireworks we had from Nationwide Fireworks.

Who captured your day?

Janusz and Justyna from Januszt Photography. They are husband and wife and their dynamic is unreal! We were so happy to book them as we had met them multiple times and have seen their amazing work. We had Dreamcatcher Productions for our videographer. I’ve followed them since meeting them at my friend’s wedding five years ago. Their work is incredible and I would have almost changed my wedding date if they weren’t available! I cannot wait to see the video in a few months.

What did you wear?

My designer was Milla Nova and I got my dress in Verona Bridal in the North. This was the first shop I went to and the third dress I tried on 15 minutes into the appointment. The dress was only halfway up and I told Maria the stylist that it was the one! I walked out of the dressing room and everyone started crying, it was just meant to be and I never looked back.

We bought Declan’s suit from Morley’s in Cork City. After researching and shopping, Morley’s definitely had the highest quality suits and their staff were so knowledgeable on what to do and how to style them – you would be so surprised how much detail goes into a plain black tux!

The groomsmen were also in black tuxedos from Morley’s and the bridesmaid’s dresses were Terri McEvoy’s collection with InTheStyle last year.

Do you have a favourite moment from the day?

I loved the morning of the wedding it was so chill. We had a pianist playing my parents grand piano and everyone was just buzzing. There was about 20 of us in the house and we were all on such a high! Everyone was panicking over the downpour of rain, but I couldn’t have cared less, I was just so ready to walk up the aisle to the love of my life.

I also love to write poems it’s something I’ve always done, so I wrote a poem for every guest before we even knew who could and couldn’t attend! I started about 11 months before the wedding and they were such a hit that the hard work and late nights I put into writing them was worth every second! Then, as a surprise I stood up and said: “Declan on our wedding day the 16th of June, there’s one person left to write a poem for and that’s my groom…..” it was such a hit with the guests, they laughed, they cried and they just felt the love.

We kept having private moments together just looking around and taking it all in I loved it. I bought Declan cufflinks engraved with our 14 year old yorkie Molly’s portrait. It was his favourite surprise.

Do you have any advice for couples who are planning their wedding day?

Stay calm. I was very, very conscious of my stress levels not to kick off my alopecia as I wanted to wear my own hair on the wedding day so I was watching it like a hawk. It can be very stressful the last few weeks, but just don’t lose focus as to why you are having a wedding. The bubble you will be in afterwards is amazing it just feels like you’ve won the lotto. We are almost a month married and I am still on such a high!

Also trust your vendors! More than likely you have not done this before but these vendors do this day in day out. They know what they’re doing, so let them do their thing.

We planned the day being very conscious that we wanted to spend every minute with our guests, so we skipped the meet and greet outside the church, this allowed people to make their way to Kerry (1 hour 10min drive) instead of spending 40 minutes in the church queuing to say a quick hello to us. As we were first to the venue we snapped some very quick photos and went and enjoyed almost the full two hours of our drinks reception with our guests.

Chloe & Declan’s DREAM WEDDING TEAM

RECEPTION VENUE Dunloe Hotel & Gardens

PHOTOGRAPHY Januszt Photography

VIDEOGRAPHY Dreamcatcher Productions

WEDDING DRESS Verona Bridal

GROOMSWEAR Morley’s

CEREMONY FLOWERS Wonderous Weddings

RECEPTION FLOWERS Tie The Knot

MUSIC Riff Shop

The post Chloe & Declan’s Sentimental Summer Celebrations appeared first on Wedding Journal.

VIP Goodie Bag: Product Reveal

Margaret Connolly — Wed, 16 Aug 2023 08:44:04 +0000

Wondering what you’ll get in your VIP Goodie Bag at The Wedding Journal Show Belfast? Well, here we reveal one of the luxurious products you will receive.

When you purchase a VIP ticket online (link to VIP ticket page) as well as benefits that include fast track entry, front row seating at the Bridal Catwalk Shows, entry to the VIP Lounge where you’ll enjoy a complimentary glass of Prosecco and sweet treats – you also receive a luxurious goodie bag on arrival.

For The Wedding Journal Show Belfast, we’ve partnered with natural beauty brand Trilogy who are gifting all of the VIP ticket holders attending this year’s Belfast show to a 45ml Everything Balm worth £15.50/€20.50.

What Is Trilogy Everything Balm?

An intensely nourishing multi-tasking beauty balm for everything! For softening and moisturising dry skin across both face and body to dry chapped lips, cuticle care or as a melting massage oil, this balm is an essential ‘must have’ for your daily travels.

With Trilogy’s signature rosehip seed oil to hydrate, replenish and strengthen skin’s moisture barrier, this balm also includes pawpaw, rich in antioxidants and papain and antioxidant rich echinacea which helps promote resilience against environmental stressors.

Suitable for a wide range of uses this balm will quickly become your versatile skin saviour and beauty fixer-upper.

Who Are Trilogy?

Trilogy was founded from the bond of two New Zealand sisters looking for a solution to their skin sensitivity, and from the very beginning back in 2002 they pioneered the power of natural ingredients when they discovered the powerful skin benefits of rosehip seed oil.

Driven by a passion to create safe and effective beauty products using the best quality natural ingredients, an unwavering dedication was born to empower women to feel confident in their skin through naturally healthy skincare solutions.

Long before the term clean beauty was adopted, they believed that clean and natural ingredients are the best choices for skincare and the vitality of your skin. Much like nature’s diversity of ingredients, skin needs are ever changing and there are many different skin types. Trilogy have and continue to be motivated by the knowledge that everything your skin needs can be found in nature.

Using the best of science, the brand work hard to bring about innovative natural skincare that is effective, safe and unique, and works for all types of skin. They use their expertise in pure plant oils, natural extracts and potent botanical complexes to create innovative, market leading, clean natural beauty products with integrity.

Throughout their journey they have learnt that innovating with nature and a reduced environmental impact go hand in hand and take their commitment to ethical, environmental and social responsibility seriously. Trilogy celebrate nature and are proud to be part of supporting social initiatives globally that make a difference.

Trilogy is a business founded by women for women and is always in pursuit of empowering all women at a local and global level to support each other. They want to build a community of women supporting women through their unique journeys, always striving to find more naturally healthy solutions for their skincare needs, so everyone feel confident in their skin.

Every year Trilogy produce thousands of natural products, certified to the very highest standard by NATRUE. Every product launched is tried and tested on real women, who see real visible results, so that when these products finally get to you, they know they are safe, they work and that you’ll love them.

They don’t believe in sacrificing natural to meet trends and work hard to keep at the forefront of natural ingredients and formulations. Today Trilogy have over 40 high-performing award-winning face and body products and have grown to become category leaders in natural beauty.

The brand is proud of its values and of the products they products, and the idea that women of all ages can use their products with a sense of security and trust makes them proud.

See more from Trilogy here

Link to VIP Feature

Link to VIP Tickets

The post VIP Goodie Bag: Product Reveal appeared first on Wedding Journal.

Barbie-Inspired Hen Party Ideas

Margaret Connolly — Thu, 10 Aug 2023 11:44:44 +0000

‘Barbie is Everything’ – so we’ve rounded up some hen party options that we think everyone’s favourite female would love to do with her girl gang!

2023 has witnessed a Barbie-core revolution and we’re totally here for it! Plus, there’s no better time to go a ‘bit extra’ with all things pink and girly than a hen party! Here we focus on some hen party ideas that we think any self-confessed Barbie would love…

Get ready to party in full on Barbie mode!

Vacation Barbie

Treat your Barbie bride to a hen weekend away in sunnier climes. Why not catch a flight to Marbella or Ibiza for some for a few days of chilling by the pool and partying at night. Barbie would totally approve of the multiple hen party trend and a girly vacation is a popular way to kick off all of the hen celebrations. If the bride-to-be is less about the beach and pool bar, and more into her shopping and a city rooftop bar, you could consider a girly getaway to New York.

Beauty Queen Barbie

One of the best ways to enjoy quality time with the girls, is to organise a spa weekend or day out. If you are enjoying more than one hen celebration (because why not!) then a pampering spa celebration is a great way for all ages to get together for the ultimate girls day out! Choose a location where you can relax and enjoy the spa facilities, book a treatment or two and enjoy a glass or two of fizz and some refreshments too!

How about a trip to the Shore Island Spa at the Lough Rea Hotel & Spa in Co. Galway.

Dance Party Barbie

There’s no better way to bring out your inner Barbie than on the dance floor! Look out for a 70s, 80s or noughties disco and get ready to ‘dance the night away!’ – dressed up as your favourite Barbie of course!

Film Star Barbie

If you’re wanting to organise a girl’s night in for the bride and her bridesmaids to unwind before the big day, then you could host an exclusive Barbie movie screening at home – popcorn is optional, but face masks are a must!

Whatever Barbie-inspired hen party you decide to try, in the words of Barbie herself remember…’Every night’s a girls night…forever and ever!‘

The post Barbie-Inspired Hen Party Ideas appeared first on Wedding Journal.