Our newest issue has everything you need from the latest wedding trends, endless fashion inspo, expert tips and advice and everything you need to plan your dream day… so make sure to pick up your copy in retail outlets and newsagents today!

Get your FREE Wedding Journal Show Ticket Inside

To welcome back our print annual magazine, we’re gifting all our lucky WJ readers with a FREE ticket to The Wedding Journal Show this March in Belfast or Dublin. Inside your copy you will find an exclusive code to use at our online checkouts… don’t miss out on the chance to experience the ultimate wedding planning event of the year!

Find out more about The Wedding Journal Show HERE

Fresh Fashion for 2022

If you’re looking for some fabulous fashion inspo, we’ve got everything you need from designer dresses for the bride, razor-sharp tailoring for the groom, killer bridesmaid inspo and occasionwear for those all-important mother of the brides/grooms! Here’s a sneak peak at some of the latest collections inside our glossy pages…

Ireland’s Top 50 Wedding Venues

We’ve gathered the top 50 most idyllic and picturesque wedding venues in Ireland to keep on your radar! With everything from charming castles to elegant country houses and luxurious hotels, you’re sure to find a location perfect for your unique day.

Fun & Helpful Quizzes

Take our fun and savvy quizzes in our 2022 annual magazine which covers every area from where you can save money on budgeting for the big day, all the way to spicing up your sex life for the best wedding night ever… you’ll thank us later!

Must-Have Accessories

Find all those sparkly finishing touches to perfect your bridal glam! With some real shoe stoppers to dazzling diamonds and super cute accessories for your maids, there’s something for every bride and her bridal party in our latest issue.

Sexy Numbers For The Big Night

Feel and look your best on your wedding night with these super sexy and naughty numbers for every kind of bride! We’re pretty sure your man won’t be complaining either

Your Wedding Dilemma’s SOLVED

Got a w-day worry that needs solved? You’re not alone! We answer your biggest wedding dilemma’s in our NEW Emma’s Dilemma’s advice column. In this issue we have some style stress from a newly pregnant bride, controlling mother of the brides and trouble in paradise.

Inspiring Real-Life Weddings

Get inspired with our three real-life couples who share all the dreamy details of their day. We also close our Bride Diaries series with our local beauty blogger and MUA Caitlyn Lendrum as she walks down the aisle in style the final chapter.

Modern Gift List Inspo

Treat yourself and your hubby to these hi-tech and handy items we’ve gathered for the modern couples! Take a glance through our glossy pages in our 2022 annual magazine to find some gift inspo before you draft up your final gift list copy… you won’t regret it!

Honeymoon Hotspots

Did someone say #honeymoongoals?! Inside our latest issue we reveal the world’s hottest honeymoon spots to have on your hitlist. From the Caribbean to Greece and Italy, find out which destination is calling your name next…

…and SO much more! Get your copy in retail outlets and newsagents TODAY!

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The post 10 Reasons You Need Our 2022 Annual Magazine appeared first on Wedding Journal.

For all those lucky brides and grooms-to-be, this is your chance to indulge in the ultimate VIP experience at The Wedding Journal Show!

To celebrate the return of Ireland’s biggest bridal show this February in Belfast and Dublin, we’re giving away two exclusive VIP tickets for all you lucky bride and grooms-to-be planning your perfect day.

Grab a glass of bubbly and some sweet treats and experience our amazing bridal catwalks from the best seats in the house, or chill out in our exclusive VIP lounge where you can chat to other brides and grooms…simply enter this quick form to be in for a chance to win!

Name / Surname

Email

Your Wedding Date *

Location IrelandNorthern IrelandOther

Contact Number *

Tick this box if you wish to opt in to receive emails from third parties related to this giveaway

Tick here

If you are human, leave this field blank.

View The First Bridal Show of 2022!

Get back into the swing of wedding planning and meet hundreds of suppliers offering inspirational ideas to help you turn the wedding day you’ve always dreamed of into a reality. With everything you to plan the perfect wedding under one roof, this is the only show you’ll ever need!

Indulge in a VIP Experience

Gain fast track entry, enjoy a glass of prosecco and sweet treats as well as a surprise gift from The Wedding Journal! Get exclusive access to the VIP Lounge where you can enjoy reserved front row catwalk seating and watch our show come to life as you chat to other brides and grooms-to-be.

Win a £/€30,000 Wedding

Could you be the lucky couple who wins the wedding prize of a lifetime? This February we’ll be giving away a dream wedding worth an incredible £/€30,000! Stay tuned for more details to come and the full breakdown of all suppliers included in the competition.

Endless Wedding Inspiration

Watch The Wedding Journal Show come to life with informative workshops and demonstrations designed to help brides and grooms make the right choices for their special day. Whether it’s advice on getting the right wedding photographs, picking a suitable honeymoon destination or how to style your bridal party for the big day, there are lots of useful tips and inspo to pick up!

What’s Included?

Fast Track Entry

Front Row Seat at The Bridal Catwalk

Exclusive Access To the VIP Lounge

Prosecco & Sweet Treats

A Surprise Gift from The Wedding Journal!

The post Win VIP Tickets To The Wedding Journal Show – Gemma Garrett (CLOSED) appeared first on Wedding Journal.

From our Ultimate Wedding Countdown Planner to keep you on track with every aspect of your wedding, from engagement right through to honeymoon, to our gallery of the coolest new plus size wedding dresses, we’ve got you covered in our Winter 2021 magazine!

If you’re in the market for a wedding dress, our fabulous four-page sneak peek at the very newest 2022 collections is an absolute must-read!

Inspired by the Bridgerton girls and their Regency style? We have galleries of gorgeous Bridgerton style wedding dresses, A-list inspired looks for grooms and daring gowns that show off your very best assets.

Whether you’re planning a perfectly chic micro-wedding surrounded by your nearest and dearest or a magnificent party of the century that all your friends will remember for years to come, you have to consult our guide to your wedding budgeting journey so you don’t miss a thing!

Get inspired by our newest brides who share their unique journeys to the altar in our Real Life Weddings pages – and we’ll show you how to get the look yourself! We talk to Melissa and Barry who chose an ancient church in Co Laois for their gorgeously boho wedding, followed by a sweet back garden reception.

We meet Jade and Dean who didn’t hold back with a stylish and elegant humanist wedding at Galgorm on the very first day out of lockdown. 

Meanwhile, Melissa and Stephen didn’t let Covid stand in the way of their perfect day and rounded off their cool and classic Dublin city wedding with a good old fashioned singsong.

Will you be one of our lucky winners this issue? We’ve got some amazing competitions for all our wonderful brides and grooms to be!

• Win a luxurious two night stay with breakfast and dinner at Kinnity Castle Hotel
• Win a designer wedding dress from True Bride
• Win anti-wrinkle treatment and fillers by Eden Medical 
• Win a luxury stay  for two with breakfast, dinner and spa treatments at Radisson Blu Hotel & Spa

We join our resident beauty blogger and MUA Caitlyn Lendrum as she teases us with the dreamy details of her journey from ‘Yes!’ to ‘I do’ in our Bride Diaries.

We show you how to honeymoon like a movie star with inspirational journeys to some of the most exclusive and heavenly resorts across the globe.

Feeling frazzled with all the fuss? Don’t forget to tune into our NEW Emma’s Dilemmas feature as our undercover wedding expert solves all your wedding day worries!

Stay up to date with all the latest beauty and grooming must-haves,the perfect accessories to complement your dress shape, and pages upon pages of bridal fashion and wedding inspo.

So what are you waiting for? Click HERE to read our FREE digital winter issue!

Front cover image: Orchid by Kate Fearnley

Looking for the latest wedding inspo and ideas? Tickets for the upcoming Wedding Journal Shows are on sale NOW.

The post 9 Reasons Why You Need Our FREE Winter 2021 Issue appeared first on Wedding Journal.

To celebrate the return of Ireland’s biggest bridal show this February, we’re giving away two exclusive VIP tickets for all you lucky bride and grooms-to-be planning your perfect day.

Grab a glass of bubbly and some sweet treats and experience our amazing bridal catwalks from the best seats in the house, or chill out in our exclusive VIP lounge where you can chat to other brides and grooms…simply enter this quick form to be in for a chance to win!

Name / Surname

Email

Your Wedding Date *

Location IrelandNorthern IrelandOther

Contact Number *

Tick this box if you wish to opt in to receive emails from third parties related to this giveaway

Tick here

If you are human, leave this field blank.

View The First Bridal Show of 2022!

Get back into the swing of wedding planning and meet hundreds of suppliers offering inspirational ideas to help you turn the wedding day you’ve always dreamed of into a reality. With everything you to plan the perfect wedding under one roof, this is the only show you’ll ever need!

Indulge in a VIP Experience

Gain fast track entry, enjoy a glass of prosecco and sweet treats as well as a surprise gift from The Wedding Journal! Get exclusive access to the VIP Lounge where you can enjoy reserved front row catwalk seating and watch our show come to life as you chat to other brides and grooms-to-be.

Win a £/€30,000 Wedding

Could you be the lucky couple who wins the wedding prize of a lifetime? This February we’ll be giving away a dream wedding worth an incredible £/€30,000! Stay tuned for more details to come and the full breakdown of all suppliers included in the competition.

Endless Wedding Inspiration

Watch The Wedding Journal Show come to life with informative workshops and demonstrations designed to help brides and grooms make the right choices for their special day. Whether it’s advice on getting the right wedding photographs, picking a suitable honeymoon destination or how to style your bridal party for the big day, there are lots of useful tips and inspo to pick up!

What’s Included?

Fast Track Entry

Front Row Seat at The Bridal Catwalk

Exclusive Access To the VIP Lounge

Prosecco & Sweet Treats

A Surprise Gift from The Wedding Journal!

The post Fancy Winning VIP Tickets To The Wedding Journal Show? (CLOSED) appeared first on Wedding Journal.

Watch a romantic movie – or a scary movie, for that matter – and you’d be forgiven for thinking sex is an absolute given on your wedding night.

Brides can spend a humongous amount of time and money planning for that first sexual encounter as a married couple, defuzzing absolutely everything and investing in something seductive when it comes to lingerie.

After all, it’s the crowning glory of years of planning, the moment a loving couple will finally relax into each other’s arms and create sensual fireworks following a hectic day of celebrations.

RELATED TO: Sex Positions Couples Have To Try For An Unforgettable Wedding Night

Or is it? According to one survey, just over a third of newlyweds in Ireland (37%) say they had sex on the night they got married.

Another survey by lingerie brand Bluebella said 52% DON’T do the deed on their wedding night – which to me seems a little low, considering the rollercoaster of a day they’ve just had.

I mean, think about it. You’ve probably been dieting frantically for weeks and running yourself ragged as you organise this, that and the other in the run-up to the big day.

RELATED TO: The Perfect Sex Playlist

Then you’re up with the larks for the longest hair, fashion and make-up session you’ve ever had in your life, before embarking on an unforgettable and hugely emotional experience followed by a packed schedule of eating, drinking and dancing the night away.

And after all that you’re expected to mistily melt into each other’s arms before embarking on a night filled with sexual Olympics?

Let’s face it, after a day like that, it would be weird if you had the energy left to do more than unpin your tiara before sinking into the king-size hotel bed and snoring like an adenoidal wrestler.

Not to mention your other half, who could well be feeling under extreme pressure to perform after a lengthy session of having pints bought for him by 60 or so very friendly guests.

RELATED TO: One in 20 Irish People Check Their Phone During Sex

We carried out our (not at all scientific) poll on Twitter, and found the results were even more telling – 24% say they did have sex on their wedding night, while a resounding 62% said they didn’t because they were just too tired or drunk.

Intriguingly, we discovered an enthusiastic 13% of couples admitted to having sex at the reception itself, and we really, REALLY want to know where. In the gardens? In the bridal dressing room? Behind the curtains? Well played, guys, well played – we salute you.

But it’s not just food, drink and exhaustion that can kill the erotic vibe – sometimes the sheer architecture of the wedding dress and lingerie can defeat even a willing couple by the very small hours of the morning.

One of our respondents laughingly says: “I won’t even start on the 32,000 buttons on the dress at 3am.”

Another says she fell asleep in the hotel bed in her dress, while eating room service chips: “Really set the tone for the marriage!”

RELATED TO: The Phrase That Leads To Better Sex Revealed

Meanwhile, one couple who travelled to Florida to marry had their one-year-old son with them.

“In a five-bedroom villa, he slept between us both. We were knackered anyway from a great day,” they say.

And many couples who decided to just ‘power on through’ the exhaustion admit it ended up being an anticlimax – often saying it felt forced and the weight of expectation resulted in a monumental let-down.

One bride who posted on Reddit says: “We had sex, but it almost felt like an obligation. We had been on our feet for 12 hours, dressed up in more clothes than we’d ever worn in our lives, talking to people, dancing. By the time we got to our room, we’d have both been content to just go to sleep, but we powered through it.”

But just remember that the whole emphasis on the wedding night is a throw-back to the time when historically it was the first time a couple had ever shared a bed, so it’s understandable that newlyweds might have been willing to power through.

RELATED TO: Spice Up Your Sex Life

These days, however, many couples may have already built up a strong intimate relationship over the years before their wedding day, and may feel less under pressure to stage a super-steamy wedding night. Many admit to dozing off in the bath after their exhausting day or simply curling up in each other’s arms.

So don’t feel at all concerned if the wedding night turns out not to be filled with sexual fireworks – it’s perfectly normal to just conk out with exhaustion.

The morning after, however – well that’s a whole other thing. The pressure’s off, you’re waking up in each other’s arms as newlyweds and what could be more romantic than drowsily launching an exploration of each other’s bodies? That will be the moment when your sensual lingerie really comes into its own.

RELATED TO: Get Sexy – Lingerie To Wear On Honeymoon

As one Redditer says, following an anti-climactic wedding night in which he and his new wife showered and then crashed out: “The next morning , however…. In the immortal words of Jackie Gleason, ‘Bang! Zoom! To the moon, Alice!’”

RELATED TO: 9 Naughty Night-In Ideas

RELATED TO: Top 5 Freaky Sex Positions You Need To Know

Still searching for that perfect lingerie? Check out our bridalwear experts HERE.

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The post How Many Couples REALLY Have Sex On Their Wedding Night? appeared first on Wedding Journal.

There’s no shortage of beauty treatments out there, but which is the one for you? Whether you prefer the light touch or something a little more in-depth, you’re sure to find some inspiration from our list of both the latest and the tried-and-tested techniques.

RELATED TO: Beauty bits every bride should trial before the wedding

RELATED TO: Bridal checklist – your ultimate planner

Here are a few suggestions to get you started – but chat to your beauty therapist or clinic to find out what will suit you best.

• Lash extensions or tinting 

You may be longing for luscious lashes, but are wary of faffing about with false eyelashes on the day itself. You could try lash extensions, individually applied fibres which start to come off from around two or weeks after application. If you love the length of your lashes, however, try using a lash tint to add some extra definition. Book your appointment a week before the wedding to give you time to get used to your long lashes. Try Retro Unisex Beauty ‘n’ Nails in Camlough – owner Noleen is an Ultimate Nouveau lash technician and nail technician.

• The Vampire Facelift (PRP)

This one is a new favourite – Platelet Rich Plasma rejuvenates the skin, especially in the under-eye area as well as facial and body areas. It works by using your own platelet cells from a portion of your blood – these are rich in growth factors and stem cells to regenerate and remodel the skin naturally, increasing elasticity and collagen production.  The treatment re-plumps and rejuvenates the skin, reducing fine lines and wrinkles to create a youthful, radiant glow. Available from The Laser and Skin Clinic.

• Microblading

This technique gives the impression of fuller and thicker brows without needing make-up on your wedding day. Hair-like incision strokes are made to the skin’s surface using a nanoblade, penetrating only as far as the upper skin. You can choose to simply fill in sparse areas with a colour-matching technique or have your lighter eyebrows made darker for a more striking appearance. The results can last for 12 to 24 months. Have it at least two weeks before the wedding.

• Injectable moisturisers

Injectable moisturisers like Profhilo promise the “airbrushed look” and are used very effectively in the treatment of crepey, saggy, rough and dehydrated skin.   Profhilo is a skin treatment that hydrates and lifts the skin, and is hugely popular for weddings.  It is commonly used after fillers for an “all-over glow” – you can opt for an all-over facial treatment or target a particular area of concern.   Available from Dr McNally at Rejuvenate Anti-Ageing Clinic in Belfast.

• Waxing

Brides usually choose wax before their wedding because waxing removes hair for a longer period of time and leaves the skin looking smooth and hairless for longer. Waxing removes the hair at the root and typically lasts anywhere from three to six weeks, carrying you through to the end of the honeymoon. It’s usually recommended to wax a week before your big day – never, ever do it on the day of the wedding! If you have sensitive skin, you could see some redness or blotchiness, but it will calm down in a day or so. Lavender Health Spa in Ballygawley offers a very comprehensive range of waxing options.

• Microneedling

This is a skin renewal technique that gives similar results to ablative techniques such as deep chemical peels, lasers and fraxel, but is less invasive and doesn’t require the removal of the skin’s surface. Healing time is shorter and there is less chance of post treatment sensitivity to UV light. It’s suitable for the fragile skin around the eyes, mouth, on the neck and on ethnic skins and is based on the skin’s natural ability to self repair when physically damaged by cuts and abrasions. The recommended course of treatment is three to six sessions, two to four weeks apart for optimum results – although you will begin to see improvement after the first treatment. Available from Dublin Skin and Laser Clinic.

• Skin Peels

The Laser and Skin Clinic offers a range of skin peels for a number of concerns, such as acne, fine lines/wrinkles, sunspots and more. Whether you want to completely renew your skin or simply give it a moisture boost, the clinic recommends a course of skin peels for optimal visible results. Do allow enough time between your first appointment and your wedding day when booking a course of skin peel treatments to make sure you’re absolutely glowing for the day.

• Dermaroller

If your skin is looking lacklustre and starting to sag, it’s worth investigating dermarolling. Your therapist rolls a tiny cylindrical drum with micro-needles across the surface of the face, causing microscopic punctures which encourage the skin to repair and stimulate cell regeneration. It results in increased collagen production and plumper, more youthful skin. Have this treatment 1-2 weeks ahead of the wedding as skin repair can take up to a week. 

• Fake tan

Top up your glow with a hint of healthy colour. You should exfoliate and moisturise your skin a day or two before your tanning appointment to make sure the tan goes on smoothly. Do it two days before the wedding, so you don’t end up with unsightly brown streaks on your wedding dress.

• Sunekos

This is a new injectable treatment featuring a formula of amino acids and hyaluronic acid. It regenerates the Extra Cellular Matrix (ECM) by stimulating the skin’s fibroblasts to produce a complete mix of collagen and elastin. The Laser and Skin Clinic recommends Sunekos as an excellent option for brides who wish to maintain a more natural look or those who do not want or need anti-wrinkle injections or fillers.

• Nails

Get your manicure and pedicure done a couple of days before the wedding – they’ll still be fine on the day itself and you’ll have them done in time for the wedding rehearsal. There are so many ways you can do them as well – from nail art with hints of cobalt (for your something blue), to misty grey or mink, or accessorised with touches of pearl.

• Photorejuvenation

This laser treatment uses IPL to treat a number of skin concerns such as red veins, sun spots, uneven pigment, fine lines and wrinkles and is popular because it gives a clear, healthy, plump and rejuvenated appearance to the skin. A cold gel is applied to the area to be treated, and a sensation often described as being similar to the snapping of a rubber band is felt on the surface of the skin, along with a little heat. Treatment time is approximately 20 to 30 minutes, after which a cold pack may be applied to your skin. The result is a clear and plumped appearance to the skin and most clients see satisfactory results with 3 to 6 treatments. Available from Dublin Skin and Laser Clinic.

• Facial 

Give your skin a little extra TLC before the big day with a facial – whether you’re prone to rosacea, acne or dryness, there’s a facial out there for you. Chat to your therapist so that they can tailor the facial to your skin, and have it a week before the wedding to let any redness subside. Try the CryoPlatinum Facial with Aura Skin Clinic in Strabane.

• E-luminate

This treatment from Eden Medical Clinic was created with brides in mind and uses a combination of anti-wrinkle injections and dermal filler in several areas around the face to emphasise light reflection on certain areas, creating a highlighter effect. It seeks to maximise the use of light on the face as opposed to adding volume to it through the use of product. The semi-permanent treatment benefits patients for up to 6-12 months afterwards, brightening and allowing reshaping of features around the face whilst still maintaining a natural yet subtle defined silhouette. 

• Treat your hair

Touch up the colour of your hair two weeks before the wedding and when you have a week still to go, give yourself a deep-conditioning treatment for softer, shinier hair, or have a salon gloss. Shampoo and condition your hair the day before the wedding, but don’t wait until the morning itself, as your hairdresser won’t be too happy with you. Overly squeaky clean hair won’t hold your bridal hair style as well – especially when it’s an updo. The Silcare QUIN haircare range from Beauty Belle is hugely popular, offering hair masks, vitamin spray and serums to bring your hair back to life. 

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Still planning your beauty regime? Check out all of our beauty, health and wellbeing experts HERE

The post 15 must-have beauty treatments before your wedding day appeared first on Wedding Journal.

The resorts are shut down, the flights have been grounded and the attractions are on hold.

While some honeymoon destinations are still up and running, many have had to hit pause until the Covid restrictions are eased and life gets back onto a more normal footing.

So while you may still be dreaming about that far-flung beach with its coconut palms, the sands of Bundoran might be a more feasible option for now.

RELATED TO: Win an overnight stay, breakfast, dinner and spa package at The Four Seasons Hotel

But think about it this way – this could be the push you’ve always needed to discover the amazing holiday spots right on your doorstep, or even a few counties down the road.

The wonderful thing about Ireland is that it really packs a punch when it comes to landscape – instead of the same old thing for miles upon miles, we have the most extraordinary diversity of landscapes to explore on an island that is less than 500km in length.

RELATED TO: 19 intimate wedding venues in Ireland

Towering cliffs? Check.  Endless golden beaches? Check. Mossy ancient woodlands dotted with crumbling ruined castles? Guys, we invented them.

And coming back to the beaches just for a second, not only do we have some of the most spectacular strands in Europe, but they’re mostly free to roam. 

No dividing up the shoreline into exclusive enclaves for the local hotels, no paying through the nose for a scrap of beach with a sunlounger and a locker. You are free to wander for miles if you like, and there’s always something new around the next headland.

Even better, there are few locations worldwide that can boast the wealth of ancient heritage that we have – from Bru na Boinne, built centuries before the pyramids, to the fascinating cave at Dunmore in Kilkenny, scene of a Viking massacre in 928, and the vertiginous Carrick-a-Rede rope bridge in Co Antrim, once used by salmon fishermen to reach their offshore fishing grounds.

So start digging into the possibilities – and we can guarantee you will find some more than honeymoon-worthy locations which will leave you with the memories of a lifetime.

Co Mayo

The third-largest Irish county, Co Mayo has some spectacular places on offer, including the traditional pilgrimage site of Croagh Patrick, the breathtaking Downpatrick Head, the village of Cong where John Wayne classic The Quiet Man was filmed and the thriving village of Westport. You can’t visit without taking the ferry to the wilds of Achill Island as well, preferably on a bike. Treat yourself to a self-catering stay in one of the log cabins at Eaglewood Lodge, nestled in its own woodland in the majestic Partry and Maumtrasna mountains, yet just 10 minutes away from Westport – it’s the ideal place to curl up in front of the log burner with a glass or wine.

Eaglewood Lodge

Portmarnock

Tucked away in a quiet corner of The Velvet Strand, one of Ireland’s most stunning stretches of uninterrupted coastline, is the historic Portmarnock Hotel and Golf Links. Once the family home of the Jameson dynasty, it has been reimagined as a stunning hotel with award-winning spa and two award-winning restaurants. 

Walk out the door for a stroll along five miles of pristine sandy beaches or visit the picturesque fishing villages of Malahide and Howth with their popular seafood restaurants. Meanwhile Dublin city centre with its thriving nightlife is only a 25-minute drive away. The hotel is now offering a Sunshine Staycation package.

Fota Island Resort

Set on an island in Cork Harbour, which is host to Ireland’s only wildlife park, Fota Island Resort was once part of the Smith-Barry estate and is now a sophisticated five-star hotel with tennis, golf, spa and gym facilities. Honeymooners can check-in to one of the Resort’s eight luxurious suites, each one unique in design and layout but equally as stylish. Each room offers stunning views of the Resort’s woodlands or golf courses and the majority of suites also come complete with a terrace balcony offering more space to relax on your private island. 

Galgorm Spa & Golf Resort

Set in 163 acres of lush parkland with the River Maine flowing through the grounds, Galgorm Resort is renowned as a wonderful setting both for weddings and for getting away from it all. It offers the first Thermal Village and Spa of its kind in Ireland, with an extensive selection of riverside hot tubs, indoor and outdoor heated pools, steam rooms and saunas, as well as the famous snow cabin. Treat yourself to the wonderful Nightfall Spa experience.

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Still looking for a staycation destination? Check out all of our venues HERE

The post Minimoon fever: why you should honeymoon in Ireland appeared first on Wedding Journal.

With life moving back to normal, there’s no better way to get back on track with your wedding planning than by visiting The Wedding Journal Show – book your tickets here and get an exclusive 50% off discount code for this weekend only, when you join our brides Facebook Group!

Our Spring 2022 shows are now full steam ahead at the start of the year and we can promise a serious wedding extravaganza, with inspiration, style and industry experts – everything you need to make sure your big day goes perfectly!

You’ll get to see the newest styles in our thrilling live catwalk shows and our specialist stage areas. And even better – because we love you so much – we’re offering a 50% off the ticket price for anyone who joins our wonderful Wedding Journal Inspo group on Facebook – a fabulous community where brides-to-be trade tips and ideas and you can chat to others about new trends and solving your wedding dilemmas.

RELATED TO: Wedding planning tasks you can complete during lockdown

All you have to do is join the group and you’ll have access to an access code that will guarantee you a 50% discount off the ticket price for The Wedding Journal Show – all the inspiration at half the price. 

Just join the Facebook Wedding Journal Inspo group, get your access code and enter it in the coupon code box at the checkout when you’re purchasing your tickets.

RELATED TO: 13 Best Wedding Planning Podcasts

Limited spaces are available, so book now for the ultimate experience! We’ve got amazing bridal catwalks (reserved seating only), VIP packages and amazing cash prizes – you really don’t want to miss it!

We’ll be at Citywest Dublin on Saturday 8 and Sunday 9 January 2022 and TEC Belfast on Saturday 5 and Sunday 6 February 2022. We can’t wait to see you there!

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The post 50% off your ticket for The Wedding Journal Show (CLOSED) appeared first on Wedding Journal.

This season has been more than a little schizophrenic when it comes to bridal colours. 

On the one hand you have big and bold, with hot pinks, tangerines and classic blues.

But we’re also seeing a gorgeously shifting, mesmerising palette of subtle hues that might not have been on the menu in previous years – tones of grey merging into sea greens and melting stormy blues.

And as the seasons have changed and we’ve all had time to reflect on our tones of choice, one coolly chic hue is emerging as a frontrunner.

Sage is coming to the forefront as a subtle reposte to all those garish try-hard colours of the past – and tying in beautifully with those homespun boho decor styles and DIY aesthetic.

RELATED TO: Four undone hairstyles for an effortless bridal look

What’s wonderful about sage is that it’s so hard to pin down – almost pastel, almost khaki, almost blue, almost grey.

It lifted our spirits in the weddings of winter 2020 and brings a breath of fresh air and new life into the revived pairings of spring.

Sage green is as natural as they come, and as relaxed as it gets. It doesn’t vie for attention or scream high glamour, and you’ll never go wrong pairing it with taupe and wooden decor.

Chiffon floor length bridesmaid dress, Sorella Vita 8746, available from MMC Bridal Agency

Sweet spaghetti straps bring a delicious delicious flirty touch to this romantic  chiffon bridesmaid dress, with its ruched V-neck bodice and lightweight skirt.

Classic satin bridesmaid dress, Sorella Vita 8918, available from LA Bridal House in Carrickfergus

Sophisticated satin has never looked as Hollywood as this gorgeous style. A high wide necklace forms a classic silhouette before cinching in at the waist, creating a glamorous hourglass shape.

Cap sleeve lux chiffon dress, Dessy JP1021, available from La Bella Sposa, Dublin

This glorious full length cap sleeve lux chiffon dress nods to full on glamour with its cut-out sheer back. Delicate sleeves make the dress perfect for cool weather or covering up the shoulders – just because.

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Still looking for your perfect bridesmaid dresses? Check out all of our bridal suppliers HERE

The post Why We Love Sage Bridesmaid Dresses appeared first on Wedding Journal.

Our Autumn 2019 Belfast show is set to be the biggest and best so far; we have hundreds of exhibitors, with new and exciting zones.

Introducing…Your First Home

A survey with The Wedding Journal Show visitors about their experience at the shows both in Dublin and Belfast, revealed that almost everyone is balancing wedding planning and house hunting.

DID YOU KNOW? 73% of couples today are balancing wedding planning with home building!

This got us thinking, why don’t we provide a little something extra for couples who need some guidance and inspiration in the home department.

This can be an overwhelming and expensive time for couples, but we want to ease those first home worries. The aim of this NEW area is to offer expert advice on financing and decorating a couple’s first home, as well as lots of wedding gift ideas.

DID YOU KNOW? 80% of brides put large furniture items on their wedding gift list

We’ll have expert advice from the best in the business covering a range of areas including…

-Wedding Gift Ideas To Help Furnish Your Home

-Financial Advice For Buying Your First Home

PLUS…A demonstration stage with informative and entertaining workshops!

Another New Addition…Beauty, Health and Wellbeing

After surveying brides at the autumn shows, a whopping 85% told us they would stay loyal to their bridal beauty regime.

With so many options out there, the bridal beauty industry can feel overwhelming, but at the Wedding Journal Show brides can find the best beauty, health and wellbeing suppliers for their wedding day.

DID YOU KNOW? Women in Ireland are spending almost £/€2,000 a year on hair, face and body beauty products

The aim of our new Beauty, Health & Wellbeing area is to offer expert advice on the latest beauty products, therapies and treatments for brides – and grooms – preparing for their wedding day.

In this area at the show look out for…

-The latest top-selling beauty brands

-New and upcoming treatments and therapies

-Live beauty demos

Other Highlights at The Wedding Journal Show Belfast Include:

Win a Dream £35,000 Wedding

Amazing Bridal Catwalk Shows 3 Times Daily

The Exclusive VIP Lounge

The Curious Wedding Zone

Honeymoon and Destination Wedding Pavilion

Book Tickets Your Tickets Today

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The Wedding Journal Show Dublin

All of this and more will be at The Wedding Journal Show Dublin at The Citywest Convention Centre, Saturday 11th and Sunday 12th January 2020! Early Bird Tickets on sale now, don’t miss out – Book Here

The post What’s New At The Wedding Journal Show This Autumn? appeared first on Wedding Journal.

Our Autumn 2019 Belfast show is set to be the biggest and best so far; we have hundreds of exhibitors, with new and exciting zones.

Introducing…Your First Home

A survey with The Wedding Journal Show visitors about their experience at the shows both in Dublin and Belfast, revealed that almost everyone is balancing wedding planning and house hunting.

DID YOU KNOW? 73% of couples today are balancing wedding planning with home building!

This got us thinking, why don’t we provide a little something extra for couples who need some guidance and inspiration in the home department.

This can be an overwhelming and expensive time for couples, but we want to ease those first home worries. The aim of this NEW area is to offer expert advice on financing and decorating a couple’s first home, as well as lots of wedding gift ideas.

DID YOU KNOW? 80% of brides put large furniture items on their wedding gift list

We’ll have expert advice from the best in the business covering a range of areas including…

-Wedding Gift Ideas To Help Furnish Your Home

-Financial Advice For Buying Your First Home

PLUS…A demonstration stage with informative and entertaining workshops!

Another New Addition…Beauty, Health and Wellbeing

After surveying brides at the autumn shows, a whopping 85% told us they would stay loyal to their bridal beauty regime.

With so many options out there, the bridal beauty industry can feel overwhelming, but at the Wedding Journal Show brides can find the best beauty, health and wellbeing suppliers for their wedding day.

DID YOU KNOW? Women in Ireland are spending almost £/€2,000 a year on hair, face and body beauty products

The aim of our new Beauty, Health & Wellbeing area is to offer expert advice on the latest beauty products, therapies and treatments for brides – and grooms – preparing for their wedding day.

In this area at the show look out for…

-The latest top-selling beauty brands

-New and upcoming treatments and therapies

-Live beauty demos

Other Highlights at The Wedding Journal Show Belfast Include:

Win a Dream £35,000 Wedding

Amazing Bridal Catwalk Shows 3 Times Daily

The Exclusive VIP Lounge

The Curious Wedding Zone

Honeymoon and Destination Wedding Pavilion

Book Tickets Your Tickets Today

…………………………………………………………………………

The Wedding Journal Show Dublin

All of this and more will be at The Wedding Journal Show Dublin at The Citywest Convention Centre, Saturday 11th and Sunday 12th January 2020! Early Bird Tickets on sale now, don’t miss out – Book Here

The post What’s New At The Wedding Journal Show? appeared first on Wedding Journal.

VIP LOUNGE 

Like every good VIP girl’s day out there’s plenty of fizz! When you arrive why not head to the Exclusive VIP Lounge where you can relax with a glass of fizz and indulge in a cupcake and some sweet treats.

The VIP Lounge is the perfect retreat whenever you wish to sit down and take stock of everything you have come across while at the Show or just have a good gossip!

FREE LUXURY GOODIE BAG

When you book your VIP ticket online before the Show you will also receive a luxury goodie bag. Please note that the luxury goodie bag is not available on VIP upgrades during the show weekend; only on our exclusive, pre-booked online VIP tickets.

RESERVED CATWALK SEATING

Whether you have your dream dress or are just starting your search everyone loves the styles on show at our unmissable Bridal Catwalk. Running three times daily at 12pm, 2pm and 4pm, as a VIP you will benefit from reserved, roped off seating to get a good look at all of the latest 2020 collection bridal gowns, bridesmaids’ dresses, groomswear and mother of the bride and groom looks.

READ MORE: The Unmissable Bridal Catwalk at The Wedding Journal Show

FAST TRACK ENTRY & OTHER BENEFITS

As well as access to the exclusive VIP Lounge, a free goodie bag, front row catwalk seating and a glass of fizz and sweet treats, if you go VIP you will also enjoy FAST TRACK ENTRY to the show and a free copy of Ireland’s Wedding Journal!

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Don’t Miss The Wedding Journal Show in Belfast Sat 5th & Sun 6th Oct.

Book your VIP tickets here!

The post Enjoy The Ultimate Girl’s Day Out appeared first on Wedding Journal.

1. Cape Cover Up

Not only does a cape offer extra coverage for your arms and bust during the ceremony, and the reception if you wish, but nearly every designer showed at least one wedding dress topped off with either a funky cropped capelet or a full-length cape making it a totally on trend feature for 2018!

2. Short & Sweet

Exposing the slimmest part of your leg, a mid-length or tea-length wedding dress can be extremely flattering. This season wedding dress lengths have been getting shorter and we think they look ever so pretty and romantic! Plus, they are easy to move about – especially when you hit the dance floor!

3. Love Lace

Accentuate those curves you love in a stunning form fitting wedding dress with lace appliqués. There’s nothing quite as romantic as a lace wedding dress, and heavier lace with large patterns is the on trend take on those more traditional lace covered gowns.

4. The Princess Dress

If you have always dreamed of a voluminous princess ballgown then you will be looking for a dress with pretty lace detailing, lashings of tulle and a sprinkling of sparkle to complete your fairytale look. As well as being your dream dream, a ballgown is great for accentuating a slim waist and flattering your bottom half.

5. Two in One

The overskirt wedding dress, is perfect for brides who can’t decide between a ballgown or more fitted dress because it offers the versatility of both looks. During the ceremony you can wow in a fuller skirt and then for the reception and the ease of moving about you can remove the overskirt for a sleeker silhouette.

6. Off-The-Shoulder

One of most popular looks among the numerous silhouette details, colours, and hemlines sent down the bridal runways was the off-the-shoulder dress. An off the shoulder dress is also an amazing way to add a touch of elegance to your big day. Show off your décolletage and keep it classy with a slightly higher neckline than you might get with a strapless dress.

7. Sleeves? Yes Please!

Sleeves also play a huge part in 2018’s bridal trends. Not only are they a godsend for covering the upper arms if you wish, but they offer an elegant finish and come in all manner of finishes from cropped and fitted to full-length and flouncy. For a sleeker silhouette a fitted sleeve will be more flattering.

8. Simply Stunning

Just as a ruched effect at the front can help to give shape, f you want to define your waist as best as possible try a gown which has a corset back, this will allow you to really pull the dress in through the waist creating more of an hour glass shape.

9. Fit ’n’ Flare

If you have curves, don’t be afraid to try a fit and flare dress. Yes, they hug the waistline and hips, but this style can also offer the perfect accentuation for womanly curves. The fit ’n’ flare can elongate the body and it is a dramatic, elegant shape.

10. Look Back

Wedding dresses which look equally beautiful from the back as they do from the front are continuing to dominate the bridal trends. Your guests will see a lot of your back on your wedding day, so why not opt for a gown where the back is just as breathtaking as the front

For more wedding dress inspiration click here

Featured Image Credit: Rebecca Ingram

The post Curvy Wedding Dress Trends For 2018 appeared first on Wedding Journal.

Bronagh Johnston and Anthony Byrne met at a mutual friend’s party back in 2013 and instantly clicked and became friends.

While they talked every day, work commitments meant they didn’t date for a year until Anthony finally invited Bronagh out for a coffee.

‘We went for an ice cream and a walk around Antrim Lough on a sunny day,’ recalls Bronagh.

‘He finally plucked up the courage to kiss me,’ she adds, ‘and the rest is history we have been together ever since.

Two years later the couple were holidaying in Thailand when Anthony had planned the surprise of Bronagh’s life.

“We were in Koh Lanta staying in a fabulous really romantic hotel which Anthony had booked.

“Anthony told me we were going to have dinner early as he was hungry (which was nothing new). We came back to our villa and he disappeared for an hour and half saying he was going to the bank link. When he came back he suggested we go to the beach bar first for cocktails.

“When we got there, there was this fabulous display of white drapes and orchids and candles everywhere. It was on the tip of my tongue to say ‘you’d never do anything like this for me’, when Anthony said this is where we are eating tonight.

‘I went over to sit on his knee to give him a kiss and thank him and he said – when you are here I want to ask you a question, will you marry me. I was speechless and burst into tears. He then produced this amazing ring and I finally spluttered out a yes. I couldn’t eat my dinner, I just kept looking at my ring sparkling in the sunset.”

When it came to the planning the couple decided that they didn’t want a ballroom type venue.

‘In the end we chose Deanes at Queens as we wanted somewhere different with character and the food was an important factor as well.

‘As soon as we went to see it I fell in love with it. I loved the natural light coming into the room and the open plan was classy and elegant. Anthony was sold on the fact that guests could have fillet steak cooked to order from the menu,’

The couple were determined the day would run at its own pace one of the key elements was on entertainment which was wide and varied. As Bronagh explains, ‘We had a range of entertainment throughout the day. To start with we had Irish dancers from the Peacock Academy of Irish Dancing along with Davey Music who played live instruments .throughout the meal we had Ricky Lormier on his acoustic guitar. During the day we had DJ Jon Boi as MC and DJ Hixx from Cool FM later in the evening. We also had Sapphire entertainment for fire breathers when it got dark. To top things off we had a couple of number one break-dancers taking part in a dance off.

‘The sun was shining down and it was beautiful and everyone got to use the outdoor patio area during the cocktail reception.”

They chose Rob Gardiner from G4 Photography, a family friend.

‘His photos are very natural and he captured the day exactly how we wanted it and he got all the action shots we wanted. I couldn’t have asked for better.’

When it came to styling the venue the couple enlisted the help of their florist Helen from Ivy Lane Floral who put flowers in vases on the tables and large floral hoops behind the top table. They also hired a floral wall from Andies Crafts which proved a great pit stop for photographs during the reception.

‘My wedding dress was from designer Danielle Couture, it was called Eve from the Phoenix range. I loved it as it was a trumpet style and fitted me like a glove. I felt really beautiful in it. I changed the back as I didn’t want a corset style and opted for buttons instead. If it was acceptable to wear it every day I would and I’m toying with the idea of having it framed.

‘Anthony and his groomsmen rented their suits from Red in Belfast. They picked floral bow ties which matched perfectly with the bridesmaids.

‘They wore floor length Grecian style dresses from Naomi Bridal in Ballyclare. The designer was Hilary Morgan and the colour was Dragon Fruit.’

Again the couple enlisted a friend of the family when it came to the stationery.

‘A friend did our invites and table plans. It was all quite plain on an ivory shine rose embossed card with a slight rim of silver. They were very elegant.’

Bronagh’s sister runs Caolifinnes Cakes and did a fantastic three tiered job – one vanilla, one chocolate chip and another mint chocolate chip and iced in butter cream. It also had a floral arrangement on the top.

When it comes to selecting their favourite moment from the big day, Bronagh says, ‘My favourite moment was taking our seats before dinner, Anthony had arranged a selection of my favourite Beyoncé songs to be played and seeing all our friends and family together was a moment to cherish forever.’

Anthony adds, ‘Coming back from having our photos taken hand in hand with my wife as our friends and family sat outside in the sunshine at Deane’s and cheered us on as the sun beat down.’

The Couple’s Top Tips

Bronagh says, ‘Don’t stress the week before the wedding – everything will fall into place and be perfect. If only I knew on the run up to the wedding what I knew after I would have been much more relaxed. Enjoy every moment

Anthony says, ‘Take a moment to really take in when you are planning for the big day When the day arrives just enjoy what you have achieved. It really is the best day of your life.

For more real-life weddings click here

The post A Belfast Wedding Full Of Love & Good Food appeared first on Wedding Journal.

Philip from Square Peg Photography loves having the ability to document moments with his camera, to tell stories and capture memories that once recorded are there for generations to come. Rarely are these stories more important than your wedding day. Philip comes from a press background so he likes to capture the story as it unfolds through a documentary style but he also mixes this with more gently posed images. Don’t worry, he won’t ask you to do handstands, although if you wanted to then he’ll be ready and waiting!

Philip wants to create images that capture you at your best and his coverage of your wedding day usually starts from the bridal prep to the first dance and then everything in between. Most couples now want their images print ready on a USB drive so that’s where his packages start from. He likes to keep it simple but he also offers quality albums printed and presented to the highest standard. Philip is a little traditional in that he loves holding and feeling photographs and believes they are best displayed in an album or printed for a frame. After all this is a special day that deserves to be presented in a quality product.

Why not contact Philip for a chat, or  even better a chat and coffee. You can also take a look through his website www.squarepegphotography.co.uk, Facebook page squarepegpics or Square Peg Photography on Instagram account for a better idea of Philip’s photography.

The post Document Your Wedding With Square Peg Photography appeared first on Wedding Journal.

First of all, what is Boho? It’s one of those terms that covers everything, including ethereal floaty frocks, large bouquets of meadow blooms and festival style marquees.

But, how do you go about creating the perfect look for this type of theme without it being too casual? It is your big day after all!

Bridal Gown

Delicate lace and soft tulle go hand in had when creating the flawless Boho bridal look. The stunning Anita gown from Eliza and Ethan is perfect choice for any bride looking to achieve a more relaxed style. The lace bodice teamed with a sumptuous tulle a-line skirt with a puddle train is a great choice for those looking to get married surrounded by nature.

Bridesmaids Dresses

The Multiwrap bridesmaids range from Eliza & Ethan is a wonderful choice for your Boho bridal party, they are one size fits all and come with a bandeau for those who would prefer a little more modesty.

The fabric drapes beautifully and is even suitable for pregnant bridesmaids who would like to wear the same dress as the rest of the party.

Stick to their stunning pastel colours and you’re made!

Flowers

Large bouquets of non-traditional flowers help to finish the look. We’ve included a couple of examples, plus this one using succulents!

Hair

Finally, for you bridal hair, ask your florist for a few extra flowers that match the ones from your bouquet for your hairdresser. You can go for a much more casual, half up half down wavy style with a flower crown is the perfect finish for this fantasy look.

Or if you would like to incorporate a nod to more traditional styling, a hair vine is a great way to link a more relaxed look with a bit of sparkle! The AR553 vine from Arianna Designer Accessories is a gorgeous addition to finish your bridal look.

To find your nearest Eliza and Ethan stockist, please visit www.elizaandethan.com

The post How To Create The Ultimate Boho Wedding Look appeared first on Wedding Journal.

You’ll want a day that creates lasting memories but don’t want to be paying off the bill long after the big day has passed! Don’t be blindsided by average wedding costs and other people’s expectations. It’s important to plan a day that reflects you as a couple and crucially is in line with what you can afford. With some careful planning that’s exactly what you can achieve:

The budget: This may include your own savings and welcome contributions from your family. Work out what you have to spend and stick to it.

Track it: To avoid overspend set up a spreadsheet where you can compare estimates versus actual costs and ensure you stay within budget.

Every day savings: We all do it, a coffee on the way to work, lunch out, these incidental costs soon add up. Either cut out or cut down in the run up to your big day so you can add some welcome funds to the kitty.

Set up a wedding account: This allows you to keep a close eye on expenditure and your available funds.

There are no hard rules! There is nothing to say you must have a six tiered wedding cake and a hen do abroad. Work out as a couple what is important to you – what you would like to splurge on and where you can make savings.

Wedding favours: And we’re not talking about something to make your guests smile! You’ll be amazed what talents your friends and family have. From DJs and photographers to cake makers. Ask friends to provide their talent as their gift to you, they’ll be delighted to be part of your day and help you manage costs down.

Shop around: Use websites and friends recommendations to help you get the best deals on everything from dresses to the honeymoon.

The numbers game: Guest numbers soon add up and can escalate costs considerably. Be realistic about what you can afford and stick to close friends and family.

Above all enjoy! If you follow these simple sensible tips you can enjoy the planning and the big day itself – and a lifetime of fun and happiness together!

Find out how Bank of Ireland UK can help you here!

The post Plan for your BIG day with Bank of Ireland UK appeared first on Wedding Journal.