Embarking on the journey of planning your dream wedding is an exciting endeavor, filled with endless possibilities and opportunities to create unforgettable memories. For those seeking a destination that exudes timeless charm, breathtaking landscapes, and unparalleled luxury, Ireland stands out as an enchanting choice.

Whether you envision exchanging vows against the backdrop of a historic castle, overlooking the rolling hills of the Irish countryside, or in a chic urban setting, Ireland’s luxury wedding venues are sure to captivate your heart and leave you with cherished memories that last a lifetime.

Kilruddery House

The Orangery at Kilruddery House in Co. Wicklow is one of the most glam wedding venues in Ireland. Light and airy with a glass ceiling and beautiful ornate detailing, this space is a real showstopper. Killruddery also offers a choice of outdoor ceremony spaces, including the farmyard at the Grain Store filled with natural beauty and more enchanting backdrops.

Check out our real life couple Emmett and Lisa’s glamorous wedding at Kilruddery House in our print annual 2022 magazine on shelves in newsagents and retail outlets now!

RELATED TO: 15 Country House Wedding Venues That WOW!

Gloster House

If your wedding is to be one of a kind in a truly unique setting, then the 300-year-old Gloster House is the perfect hidden, magical and romantic setting. The house is strictly a private venue so you will have your special day in this amazing house surrounded only by your family and friends. This is a privately owned country house and is a completely different experience to a hotel or other structured wedding venues.

Slieve Donard Resort and Spa

The Slieve Donard exudes luxury and the stunning location, overlooking the Mourne Mountains provides you with the perfect backdrop for photographs. With a choice of magnificent rooms and an impressive range of gourmet banqueting choices, a wedding at the Slieve Donard is sure to impress you and your guests!

RELATED TO: WJ’s Top Fairytale Wedding Venues In Ireland

Galgorm

Galgorm in Ballymena has become renowned for its beautiful setting which lends itself quite magically to becoming a dream wedding location. From the neat lawns dotted with ancient trees which flank the driveway, to the dramatic views of the River Maine flowing alongside the main hotel, this is a supreme setting with multiple ceremony options and locations to choose from.

Check out our real life couple Jade and Dean’s Classic Wedding At The Galgorm!

The K Club

Located only 30 minutes from Dublin in a picturesque location in County Kildare, The K Club Hotel & Resort offers one of Ireland’s best five star wedding venues. The original 19th-century house is steeped in history with old word Irish charm. Take advantage of all the beautiful photo backdrop opportunities from their manicured lawns to the rushing rivers and Val D’Osne Fountain, not to mention the stunning interior!

The Carriage Rooms at Markree Courtyard

Once a family home with a lifetime of happy memories, Markree Courtyard Sligo has been transformed into an exclusive event & accommodation venue. The venue aim to create new memories for guests which will last for a lifetime. Their venue consists of a series of unique spaces from our beautiful grounds and stunning ceremony options. The finely manicured gardens, scenic tranquil pastures and mountains are the perfect setting for your special day.

The Lodge at Ashford Castle

It’s hard to imagine a more romantic setting for your special day. The Lodge at Ashford Castle will provide the fairy-tale day of your dreams. The Lodge embraces the philosophy of ‘no request is too large, no detail too small’. Whether you desire an intimate celebration with close friends and family, or favour a more elaborate affair, The Lodge offers a choice of exceptional spaces to really set the scene.

RELATED TO: WJ’s Top Hotel Wedding Venues In Ireland

Merchant Hotel

Whatever kind of celebration you have in mind, this hotel in Belfast’s historic Cathedral Quarter could be the one for you. The rooftop garden is beautifully landscaped and provides excellent views over Belfast. It is a charming location for drinks receptions and photographs.

Titanic Hotel Belfast

The multi award-winning Titanic Hotel Belfast has become one of Northern Ireland’s most unique wedding venues. The hotel is fully registered to host civil ceremonies or partnerships, allowing you to plan your entire day in this historic venue. The large overhead skylights were designed to capture as much natural light as possible. The beautifully ornate architecture within provides the perfect setting in which to make those momentous vows to each other. After sundown, the venue glows under glimmering stars and reflections of the spectacular Titanic Belfast building.

The Loft

It’s no secret we’re obsessed with this next venue! The Loft in The Rabbit Hotel, Templepatrick, is top tier when it comes to picturesque venues! Picture high vaulted ceilings adorned with twinkling feature chandeliers, celebratory planting, marble dining tables, fairy-lit tree canopies and statement touches at every turn.

RELATED TO: 15 Wedding Venues With Stylish Accommodation

Markree Castle

If you’re on the hunt for that fairytale vintage venue, Makree Castle is one of our favourites! This venue offers a charming castle with a chapel so you can say your vows in style. Enjoy the stunning castle grounds and stylish interior for unforgettable memories and those all-important wedding photos.

Lough Erne Resort

The multi-award winning Lough Erne Resort, is a luxurious five-star hotel in Enniskillen. The venue sits on a 600 acre peninsula with delightful views of the Fermanagh Lakelands and The Faldo Course. The hotel offers stunning 360 degree views and the exquisite Ross Suite and Lakeview terrace combine to create a fairytale setting and a stunning backdrop for those all important photographs.

Check out our real life couple Marie & John’s luxurious day at Lough Erne Resort

Adare Manor

This fairytale castle on the banks of the glittering River Maigue is a magical place to host your dream day. Truly luxurious accommodations, a spectacular menu of food and wine tailored to your taste by our master chefs and sommeliers, and breathtaking beauty everywhere your eye falls – these elements are the foundation of your unforgettable wedding at Adare Manor.

RELATED TO: Beautiful Backdrops: Weddings Venues With A View in Ireland

Ballyfin

Wow your guests at this five-star luxurious country house in the heart of Ireland. This is known as one of the most glamourous Georgian homes on the island with a charming historic touch. Ballyfin allows you to step back in time as your guests can even dress in period costume from the Lyric Opera of Chicago.

RELATED TO: 10 Perfect Spa Venues To Celebrate Your Wedding In Style

Manor House Country Hotel

The Manor House Country Hotel offers the entire wedding package. Celebrate your day in the exquisite surroundings of an 18^th century Manor that radiates character and style. Enjoy the luxury of the Drawing Room or a pre-dinner aperitif in the Watergate Bar. Experience a trip on the Lady of the Lake. It is a 38 seat cruiser that is often reserved for pre- and post-wedding celebrations.

Still looking for your dream wedding venue? Check out all our trusty venue suppliers in our online directory HERE!

The post Luxury Wedding Venues in Ireland for the Ultra-Chic Couple appeared first on Wedding Journal.

One way to prevent a dull Valentine’s Day is planning for a fun and flirty night with your partner! Nothing gives us girls a boost more than a sexy Valentines Day lingerie set! We’re sure your partner wouldn’t mind it either!

Time is ticking before Valentines weekend and Valentines Day, so we have found some inspiration for you to grab! Check out these sizzling sets to start your day with some spice…

RELATED TO: 11 Sexy Secrets For A Hotter Honeymoon

Love Is In the Air

If there’s one way to get your partner’s attention, its walking into the bedroom wearing this sultry red set! Boux Avenue have this set ready for your night ahead! The hot red colour adds that fiery touch to your ordinary lingerie – finish this off with a lacy robe and you will definitely be off to a good start!

RELATED TO: Last Minute Romantic Getaways in Ireland for Valentines Day!

Bring out the Wild Side

Take your Valentines Day lingerie to the next level with a super saucy number that is sure to make your man’s heart pound! This number is from Ann Summers! Not only does this colour look good on everybody, but this sexy set with cut-out details will have you feeling hotter than ever and totally irresistible.

RELATED TO: Get Sexy: Lingerie To Wear On Honeymoon

Pink to Make them Wink!

For a super sweet and feminine feel, slip on this matching set for a night made in heaven! This colour will give you that innocent yet flirty look that quietly whispers, “come and get me” – they won’t be able to resist! The Valentines Day lingerie ensures you will feel comfortable and sexy!

This set is available at Orchid Lingerie.

Match the Petals on the Bed

Want to remind your man just how lucky they are? This sultry set will have you looking like an angel sent straight from heaven to make all his dreams come true! This set from Lounge Underwear is the perfect style for all moods! Add a white satin dressing gown to finish the look for the perfect night.

RELATED TO: Just How Sexy Is Your Star Sign?

Flirty Florals

Elevate your Valentines Day hotness and go all out with this mesmerising set from Pelie with purple mesh and embroidered florals. Your new partner won’t know what’s hit them when you walk into the room and reveal this sultry set under a black silk robe – there’s only one way this is going to go!

RELATED TO: Serve Up The Love This Valentine’s

Corset Couture

We truly believe a sexy corset set is the way to your partner’s heart! This sultry find will fit perfectly snug right underneath your outfit that evening so you can go straight from the dinner to the bedroom!

This stunning set is from Lovehoney.

RELATED TO: How Many Couples REALLY Have Sex On Their Wedding Night?

Saucy Straps

Planning to celebrate Valentines Day and make it extra exciting? Make things wild and interesting in a strappy and edgy set, because what’s Valentine’s Day without something exciting between the sheets, right? We’re loving this saucy set from BlueBella and we are sure it will drive your partner crazy!

RELATED TO: Sex Positions Couple’s Have To Try For An Unforgettable Night

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The post Seductive Elegance: Unveiling Lingerie Sets for a Passionate Valentine’s Day appeared first on Wedding Journal.

If you are wondering whether your other half is getting ready to pop the question on Valentine’s Day, Ireland’s Wedding Journal is here to help! Keep reading to discover the signs that your partner is preparing to get down on one knee!

Signs your partner is about to propose on Valentine’s Day:

1. They are acting nervous before Valentine’s Day!

Searching for signs of an imminent proposal? This one is a great giveaway. Experts say that strange behavior and a secretive shift in body language is an inkling that a sparkly ring is on the way. Do your best to not think the worst… We know what you’re thinking, secretive / nervous behavior isn’t a good sign however if your relationship is in a good place don’t let your mind wonder. Trust your partner it could be a sign a surprise is on the horizon.

RELATED TO: Newly Engaged? 5 Reasons You Need To Visit The Wedding Journal Show

2. They are not spending the way they used to!

Engagement rings are one of the most expensive pieces of jewellery you will own. If you notice your partner becoming more conscious of their spending, this might signify they are planning a big purchase. Fingers crossed they pop down to the jewellers!

3. Some of your rings go missing

Engagement rings come in many different sizes and if your partner is planning to purchase a ring in secret, they want to try and get as close to your size as possible. So, if your favourite ring goes missing, you can start dress shopping as a proposal is on the way!

RELATED TO: The Top 14 Things You Need To Do Once You’re Engaged

4. They’ve been talking about the future a lot

One of the biggest signs they have marriage on the mind? This sign is one of the biggest giveaways. Your partner will most likely test the water on the topic of marriage, kids and your future plans. Romantic isn’t it?

Enjoy these moments and do you best not to shoot future forward conversations. It might just be the reassurance your other half needs before getting down on one knee.

5. They are being secretive around their phone

In all honestly, this could be a warning sign of the worst, but if they are usually an open book and you’re both very happy you have nothing to worry about. If lately he or she has been careful to not leave you alone with their phone, your partner could be researching rings or messaging your friends and family to arrange a special proposal just for you on Valentine’s Day!

RELATED TO: How to Take Care of Your Engagement Ring

6. Someone encourages you to make a manicure appointment:

Have your friends booked you in for a spontaneous manicure? Many partners use the friends of their significant other to their advantage when planning a proposal!

7. They pull a disappearing act

When your S.O. is usually super transparent about his whereabouts, but in the past few weeks, he’s been a little less open. This could be a sign they’ve been spending secret time shopping for an engagement ring, talking to your parents, and asking them to have your hand before popping the question. Remember it’s not easy choosing the perfect engagement ring Again, this could also be the opposite of a good sign so if you’re both very in love then do not stress.

RELATED TO: 7 Engagement Rings Under £1,000 To Say Yes To

8. You can feel your family’s anticipation!

There’s very little friends and family can keep from one and other but this is one thing they will do everything to hide from you. However, in doing so their behavior and conversations can lean towards certain scenarios just to test the waters with you! Mothers are the worst at keeping secrets and can often be over emotional if she knows a special secret. It’s super important not to push her into talking about what’s up as this might just ruin the surprise! If you both are family focused when you do get engaged you’ll want to know how to keep the family happy at the wedding.

9. You’re banned from certain parts of your home

Requesting that you stay away from particular areas within your home or watching over your shoulder as you put something in his or her drawer is a sign something is definitely going on. It’s an adorable attempt to keep you away from an engagement box. Don’t go snooping, easier said than done – we hear you, but trust us you’ll want to see the ring for the first time when your significant other is down on one knee. That moment is something you will treasure for the rest of your life.

10. Valentine’s Day has been completely taken care of!

If they have gone above and beyond for this years Valentine’s Day and you have not had to plan anything, a proposal may be under wraps! Not to worry- take advantage of the spoiling. The build up of the proposal is meant to be the most exciting time of your life!

If none of these signs are happening and you think you want to step your relationship up then take things into your own hands! Set tradition aside and go for it. There are no proposals rules so take control and ask your partner to marry you!

Tickets to The Wedding Journal Show on sale now!

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The post 10 Exciting Signs Your Partner Might Propose On Valentine’s Day! appeared first on Wedding Journal.

With everything from dramatic ballgowns to flattering square necklines, we have all the trending dresses you will need to make you look like an A-list celeb! Keep on reading to find out the top 6 celebrity weddings and their wedding dress.

If you’re still looking for your perfect gown or just want to have a nosey at which wedding dresses made the cut, then keep on scrolling for some major dress inspo…

Vanessa Hudgens

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A post shared by Jasmine Tookes (@jastookes)

Love was in full bloom as actress and singer Vanessa Hudgens tied the knot in a breathtakingly romantic wedding ceremony with her partner, Cole Tucker. Surrounded by family, friends, and the enchanting ambiance of love, Vanessa exchanged vows with her beloved partner in a celebration that was nothing short of magical.

The bride radiated elegance in a stunning Vera Wang gown that perfectly captured her unique style, while the groom looked dashing in a tailored suit. Every detail of the wedding, from the exquisite floral arrangements to the heartfelt speeches, reflected the couple’s deep connection and commitment to each other. We are obsessed with this celebrity Vera Wang wedding dress.

RELATED TO: All The Wedding-Worthy Looks From The Met Gala

Style Steal

Anya Taylor-Joy

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A post shared by Royal Fashion Police (@royalfashionpolice)

The Queen’s Gambit star Anya Taylor-Joy celebrated her wedding QUEEN style! The star tied the knot with musician Malcolm McRae in a lavish ceremony held in Venice this weekend.

The actress has also featured in dramas Peaky Blinders and Last Night In Soho, married in front of just over 150 guests. Her dress comprised a princess shape in a beige shade with embroidered details. This has become and increased trend and we love to see that this star has hopped onto it.

Style Steal

Joey King

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A post shared by Royal Fashion Police (@royalfashionpolice)

Love and Elegance Unite: Joey King’s Fairytale Wedding. Hollywood sweetheart Joey King recently tied the knot in a breathtaking ceremony that left guests in awe. The star-studded event took place in a picturesque countryside setting, adorned with lush floral arrangements and twinkling lights. Joey radiated beauty in a stunning couture gown, designed exclusively for her by a renowned fashion house.

The couple exchanged heartfelt vows, surrounded by their closest family and friends, as the sun set on the horizon. The reception was a celebration of love and joy, with a live band serenading guests as they danced the night away! We are obsessed with this dress – it is truly one of a kind. For a similar look, why not go for a dramatic ballgown that will give the wow-factor!

Style Steal

Barbara Palvin

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A post shared by Jenna Ushkowitz (@jennaushkowitz)

A truly timeless union! Supermodel, Barbara Palvin recently said ‘I do’ in a mesmerizing wedding ceremony that left everyone spellbound. Barbara looked like a vision in her exquisite wedding dress, a masterpiece crafted by renowned designer, Vivienne Westwood. Barbara Palvin’s wedding was a true fairytale affair, capturing the essence of romance and creating memories that will be cherished forever! Create a similar, timeless look with a square neckline on your bridal gown.

RELATED TO: 10 Most Popular Celebrity Wedding Dresses – And How To Get The Look

Style Steal

Sofia Richie

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A post shared by Lily Collins (@lilyjcollins)

When it comes to capturing hearts and captivating audiences, Sofia Richie did not disappoint on her special day. The star-studded wedding was a true fairytale affair, but it was the bride’s breathtaking wedding dress that stole the show. Designed by custom Chanel, the gown was a masterpiece of intricate lace and delicate beadwork, exuding timeless elegance.

The silhouette gracefully hugged Sofia Richie’s figure, accentuating her natural beauty and radiance. The ethereal train cascaded behind her, creating a mesmerizing vision as she walked down the aisle. Every detail, from the meticulously hand-sewn embellishments to the carefully chosen fabrics, showcased the craftsmanship and artistry that went into creating this one-of-a-kind creation.

Style Steal

Clea, Rosa Clara

Rita Ora

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A post shared by Max Fredrik D (@max_fd)

The world-renowned singer, Rita Ora, recently embarked on a new chapter of her life as she exchanged vows in a private ceremony. Her dress looked mesmerising as she wore a figure hugging lace gown with sleeves. We are obsessed with this celebrity wedding dress and hope to see similar dresses emerge in 2024!

Style Steal

Still looking for your dream dress? Check out all our bridalwear suppliers HERE

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The post Top 6 Celebrity Weddings of 2023 & Get the Look appeared first on Wedding Journal.

As we look forward to the year ahead, many brides will be wondering what will make their wedding day stand out amongst all the others over the next year. From dessert stations to digital guestbooks, we cover all the upcoming trends you need to know about to keep your wedding looking fresh and quirky!

Dessert Stations

Dessert stations are not necessarily a new trend that you will not have heard about before, however, we predict brides will be making their dessert station much more unique and themed to them as a couple! Instead of only having a three-tiered wedding cake, couples might opt for a coffee theme with coffee cakes and espresso martinis, or a lemon cake with some lemocello shots!

Brides are definitely upping their game with making their wedding much more personal to them and we definitely think creative brides will grab this trend with both hands.

Documentary Style Photography

For couples who would rather have more candid shots of their wedding day, documentary style photography would suit you down to a tee! Documentary style photography consists of less posed portraits of the wedded couple. Examples of this would include shots of the couple in mid-conversation; laughing, gazing into each others eyes, the list goes on.

We already see a spike in these sort of images on our Instagram feed, with many influencers choosing to pose looking into the distance or slightly turned away from the camera.

Informal Wedding Menus

Instead of the traditional wedding menus, many couples are preferring to personalise their wedding meal with their own favourite meals! Whether it is a barbecue with some pulled pork and flame grilled burgers, or an Italian inspired three-course meal, the options are not becoming much more available and accepted.

We have also found that many brides are preferring to choose an exclusive venue and with that, they will have to bring their own caterers to the space for the evening. You might as well use this trend to be budget savvy and choose an informal dinner that you both will actually enjoy!

Wedding Logos

We have already seen so many of our real-life brides and grooms personalising their wedding by branding their event with different monogram moments! Whether it is on a handkerchief or wedding stationery, we believe that custom logos will only become more of a trend as we move more into 2024. Typically the logo would consist of the couples names combined.

Champagne Towers

Nothing screams class and elegance quite like a champagne tower at your wedding! We have seen a steady increase in brides wanting to look timeless and chic and this has no doubt creeped into wedding aesthetics. Why not have your champagne tower as your ‘something old’?!

Digital Guestbook

2024 brides are saying ‘yes’ to sustainability and finding different ways to bring their traditional celebration into the modern era! Digital guestbooks are more of an experience in reliving the wedding than a small written statement in a book you could rarely open. The guestbook can include stylish selfies, heartfelt videos and audio messages to really bring the wedding to life all over again. We are loving this trend and hope that it will continue for the months ahead.

Wedding Stylist

We would all love a stylist at the best of times, never mind on your wedding day! We predict that brides and grooms will really want to set their wedding looks apart from previous generations and invest on a professional stylist for the pair on the night. A wedding stylist is not necessarily an expensive option as they can help you cut the costs with their knowledge on reputable and unique brands. This way, they can also feel reassured that their bold statement looks will make a good impression on their guests rather than a bad one!

Other ways to have a unique stylist to you would include having a separate hair and makeup artist for the bride on their wedding day. A lot of brides often feel the pressure that their stylist will not be able to get round all the bridesmaids and make them look a million dollars, so having a separate stylist on the day allows them to fully relax and enjoy the day unfold.

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The post Wedding Trends For 2024 You NEED To Know! appeared first on Wedding Journal.

If you are wondering whether your other half is getting ready to pop the question over the festive period, Ireland’s Wedding Journal is here to help! Keep reading to discover the signs that your partner is preparing to get down on one knee!

Signs your partner is about to propose over Christmas:

1. They are acting nervous before Christmas!

Searching for signs of an imminent proposal? This one is a great giveaway. Experts say that strange behavior and a secretive shift in body language is an inkling that a sparkly ring is on the way. Do your best to not think the worst… We know what you’re thinking, secretive / nervous behavior isn’t a good sign however if your relationship is in a good place don’t let your mind wonder. Trust your partner it could be a sign a surprise is on the horizon.

RELATED TO: Newly Engaged? 5 Reasons You Need To Visit The Wedding Journal Show

2. They are not spending the way they used to!

Engagement rings are one of the most expensive pieces of jewellery you will own. If you notice your partner becoming more conscious of their spending, this might signify they are planning a big purchase. Fingers crossed they pop down to the jewellers!

3. Some of your rings go missing

Engagement rings come in many different sizes and if your partner is planning to purchase a ring in secret, they want to try and get as close to your size as possible. So, if your favourite ring goes missing, you can start dress shopping as a proposal is on the way!

RELATED TO: The Top 14 Things You Need To Do Once You’re Engaged

4. They’ve been talking about the future a lot

One of the biggest signs they have marriage on the mind? This sign is one of the biggest giveaways. Your partner will most likely test the water on the topic of marriage, kids and your future plans. Romantic isn’t it?

Enjoy these moments and do you best not to shoot future forward conversations. It might just be the reassurance your other half needs before getting down on one knee.

5. They are being secretive around their phone

In all honestly, this could be a warning sign of the worst, but if they are usually an open book and you’re both very happy you have nothing to worry about. If lately he or she has been careful to not leave you alone with their phone, your partner could be researching rings or messaging your friends and family to arrange a special proposal just for you over Christmas!

RELATED TO: How to Take Care of Your Engagement Ring

6. Someone encourages you to make a manicure appointment:

Have your friends booked you in for a spontaneous manicure? Many partners use the friends of their significant other to their advantage when planning a proposal!

7. They pull a disappearing act

When your S.O. is usually super transparent about his whereabouts, but in the past few weeks, he’s been a little less open. This could be a sign they’ve been spending secret time shopping for an engagement ring, talking to your parents, and asking them to have your hand before popping the question. Remember it’s not easy choosing the perfect engagement ring Again, this could also be the opposite of a good sign so if you’re both very in love then do not stress.

RELATED TO: 7 Engagement Rings Under £1,000 To Say Yes To

8. You can feel your family’s anticipation!

There’s very little friends and family can keep from one and other but this is one thing they will do everything to hide from you. However, in doing so their behavior and conversations can lean towards certain scenarios just to test the waters with you! Mothers are the worst at keeping secrets and can often be over emotional if she knows a special secret. It’s super important not to push her into talking about what’s up as this might just ruin the surprise! If you both are family focused when you do get engaged you’ll want to know how to keep the family happy at the wedding.

9. You’re banned from certain parts of your home

Requesting that you stay away from particular areas within your home or watching over your shoulder as you put something in his or her drawer is a sign something is definitely going on. It’s an adorable attempt to keep you away from an engagement box. Don’t go snooping, easier said than done – we hear you, but trust us you’ll want to see the ring for the first time when your significant other is down on one knee. That moment is something you will treasure for the rest of your life.

10. Date nights over Christmas has been completely taken care of!

If they have gone above and beyond for this years Valentine’s Day and you have not had to plan anything, a proposal may be under wraps! Not to worry- take advantage of the spoiling. The build up of the proposal is meant to be the most exciting time of your life!

If none of these signs are happening and you think you want to step your relationship up then take things into your own hands! Set tradition aside and go for it. There are no proposals rules so take control and ask your partner to marry you!

Sign up to our newsletter to get all the latest from The Wedding Journal! Join Here>>>>http://eepurl.com/ck9vLb

The post 10 Exciting Signs Your Partner Might Propose over Christmas! appeared first on Wedding Journal.

Dreaming of a classic wedding that will never look dated? We have seen an increase in basque waistline wedding dresses! Do not get this confused with ‘dropped waisline’ wedding dresses, as we have seen this phrase being used which is actually incorrect! Instead of the typical A line dress, they have a V-shape and close contoured fit, in the style of a corset. For this reason people are believing the dress has a ‘dropped waist’.

If you are wanting to look like a timeless princess, these basque waistline wedding dresses are for you!

Without further ado, keep on scrolling to get inspired with these trending styles…

XANADU by Justin Alexander

Stocked at Orchid Bridal

This gown is all about elegance. Feel the difference in style Xanadu by Justin Alexander Signature. Flattering structure with a Bikini neckline will make you look stunning. We think this would be the perfect timeless look for any wedding!

Fiona by Luce Sposa

Stocked at Tomorrows Bridal & The Bridal Company NI

This gorgeous gown has a delicate A-line dress with a powder-colored tail. The off-the-shoulder corset has detachable cups and is laced up at the back. The dress is complemented by drapery and falling weightless mesh sleeves decorated with petals and handmade embroidery. An embroidered belt emphasizes the waistline.This is one of many basque wedding dresses to look out for this year!

RELAYED TO: 9 Bridal Boots For The Fashionista Bride

FRANCESCA TC2336 by Tania Olsen

Stocked at Bridal Elegance Boutique

Brides-to-be prepare to turn heads in the stunning Francesca TC2336 dress! This dress is the epitome of glamour and elegance, with a dazzling combination of glitter-speckled tulle and beaded lace applique. The fitted silhouette creates a flattering and feminine shape, while the side pleated skirt split adds a touch of drama and movement.

DIANA by Lanesta

Stocked at Divinity Bridal

Polina is a beautiful sleeveless bridal gown. This romantic dress features a Queen Anne neckline along with a V-back. The simple skirt allows the dress to look airy and weightless. We are loving the embroided lace also at the tip to add some simple detailing. This dress really is the combination of chic, yet simple!

Avenah by Modeca

Stocked at Jenny Lindop Bridal

Have your Cinderella moment in this gorgeous ballgown with a mikado corset and detachable off the shoulder straps. The big tulle skirt will make you feel like a true princess while walking down the aisle.

Still looking for simple, modern wedding dresses? Check out all our bridalwear suppliers HERE!

The post 5 Modern Basque Waistline Bridal Gowns for the Balletcore Bride appeared first on Wedding Journal.

Ever thought about incorporating pearls into your wedding day? We have already looked at retro cakes and different bridesmaid dresses. Now, it is time for the pièce de résistance, incorporating pearls into your wedding day!

From wedding dresses to bridal accessories and bridal shoes to room decor, we have gathered a list of what we predict will be trending going forward.

Wedding Dresses

If you want your wedding dress to look more stylish and sophisticated, why not opt for one with pearl embellishments! Subtle pearl buttons is enough to draw the eye without overpowering the gown. Pair the dress with some subtle pearl ear rings and it would be straight to the top of our wish-list!

RELATED TO: 5 of the Most Retro Wedding Cakes to Instantly Inspire YOU!

Room Decor & Centrepieces

Inspo via Pinterest

A timeless favourite for many brides decorating the room with pearl centrepieces. There are some numerous advantages to using pearls instead of flowers in your centerpieces. They’re less expensive and they are much more striking. They’re less likely to make guests sneeze! We are getting major Gatsby vibes from this overall look. Very classy and elegant.

RELATED TO: 9 Rule-Breaking Bridal Trends We Love

Bridal Shoes

Heels available with Rainbow Club

A contemporary take on a classic bridal shoe, the Maya courts take a timeless open court and give it a modern twist.

They are crafted from beautiful ivory satin and have pointed toes, a statement trim of ivory pearls, delicate ankle straps, closed backs and high block heels. Perfect with pearl-embellished wedding dresses, these stylish courts offer the finishing touch that ties everything together.

RELATED TO: 7 Wedding Dress Trends For The Modern & Non-Traditional Bride

Wedding Headpieces

Available with Aura Bridalwear

Bring the ‘wow’ factor with a Victoria Pearl Crown! Or why not go even more extra and get the matching veil! We don’t know about you, but we doubt you will ever be able to wear this many pearls in one day, so why not go for it? We are obsessed with the pearl veil trend at the minute!

RELATED TO: 10 Simple Modern Wedding Dresses for the 2023 Bride!

Accessories

Available at Rosie & Dott

You could not feel any more elegant when you incorporate pearls into your jewellery! There is something about wearing pearl jewellery which gives off old money vibes! Why not accessorise your outfit with some pearl accessories to really life the ensemble and allow you to feel extra special on your big day.

RELATED TO: 7 Flattering Wedding Dresses For The Petite Bride

Wedding Cake

Wedding Cakes from Sweet Life by Lauren

Pearls can be an amazing feature when you mix them with fresh flowers on your wedding cake. It can be a perfect combination of romance, structure and texture. Add as many pearls as you like or keep it simple with a few to make your wedding cake unique and eye-catching.

RELATED TO: Sweet & Sexy Off-The-Shoulder Wedding Dresses For The Trendsetter Bride

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The post New Trend Alert: 6 Ways to Include Pearls On Your Wedding Day! appeared first on Wedding Journal.

One upcoming huge trend that has already taken off is deconstructed cakes! What exactly is a deconstructed wedding cake?

What is a ‘Deconstructed Wedding Cake’?

Many of these cakes are not tall tiered, but instead assembled with different shapes and sizes. Brides and grooms can opt for different combinations and styles such as cupcakes, single tier cakes, double-tiered cakes and a bunch of smaller cakes together.

This trend is arising as a lot of brides and grooms are prefering the more informal approach to weddings. For example, you might want to have smaller numbers at your wedding and would therefore prefer to have the availability of cupcakes and a cake for your guests. You might also want to have a small, unique cake for photographs and then another varying flavours of cupcakes, cakes or pastries for guests to eat. More importantly, this can make the table look much more unique and attractive for guests.

Some Deconstructed Wedding Cake Inspo!

Cake by Colhoun Creations

This deconstructed wedding cake from Colhoun Creations is a dream come true! They use a combination of a single-tiered cake and a desert table to encourage all guests to have a bite of one of their sweet treats! With so many combinations, how could you say ‘no’?

RELATED TO: 8 Fabulous Tiered Wedding Cake Trends You Need To See

Cake by French Wedding Cakes

This beautiful combination of macaroons and sponge can really wow your guests! In our opinion, this is the perfect cake for a manor house or summer wedding. The macaroons are a much better option for your guests after they have had food-coma from their three-course meal! The semi-naked cake adds a hint of rustic to the overall look. Paired with some pastel pinks and bold reds, you will get some eye-catching photographs with this cake!

RELATED TO: 17 Romantic 3-Tier Wedding Cakes

Cake by Creative Cakes

There’s something about a decorative single-tiered cake with cupcakes below that looks so adorable! This delicious find from Creative Cakes is the perfect example of an elegant wedding cake with a neat look and a modern cupcake finish.

Cakes by Fern Cakery

The only thing better than one wedding cake is two wedding cakes! We’re seeing more and more couple go for two single-tiered wedding cakes which add an adorable touch to their day. These two floral cakes by Fern Cakery definitely add a style statement and are sure to taste divine.

Cake by NI Cake Design

NI Cake Design never miss the mark. The beautiful rustic cake with floral details and pastel shades is everything a wedding cake could be and more. An Instagram-worthy wedding cake for sure!

Cake by LA PASTELERÍA

Be bold and beautiful! We’d like to finish with this adorable semi-naked cake from Love Um Cakes. This is perfect for an outdoor rustic wedding or bright summer wedding reception. We’re thinking this cake will be a stylish finishing touch to your wedding day theme.

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The post What is a Deconstructed Cake & Inspirational Bakes You’ll Love! appeared first on Wedding Journal.

Don’t let the stress of planning a wedding burst your engagement bubble. This time should be exciting, thrilling and, most of all, fun! If you’re in the midst of planning your big day, or searching for some inspiration, then the Wedding Journal Show is the place for you.

From bridal boutiques to groomswear and transport to cakes, you can walk through the bustling aisles, speak to the experts and find your dream wedding vendors! Planning your big day has never been easier!

If you are newly engaged, here are 5 reasons why you need to visit the Wedding Journal Show:

1. Experience Our Extraordinary Bridal Catwalk

Find inspiration when it comes to wedding attire at our famous bridal catwalk. This fashion extravaganza features the latest collections from top dress designers alongside bridesmaid gowns, mother of the bride / groom wear and suits! The team of models and dancers put on an energetic performance that you won’t see anywhere else so take your seat and enjoy the show!

You will also get a chance to vote for the ‘Dress of the Year’ at this years Wedding Journal Show. Check out the latest and greatest bridal labels and decide for yourself which dress is the best! Make sure to keep an eye on our socials and online to vote.

RELATED TO: How To Make The Most Of The Wedding Journal Show

2. Speak To The Industry Experts

Unsure of where to start when planning your wedding. Don’t fret as there are plenty of experts on hand to help answer your burning questions. Speak with bridal boutiques, wedding cake makers, transport companies, beauty gurus and more to better understand what you want. With hundreds of stands, there will be something for everyone!

RELATED TO: Find Your Dream Dress At Our Bridal Catwalk

3. The Bridal Beauty Zone

Planning a wedding can be stressful so relax at the Bridal Beauty Zone and discover the latest in pampering and beauty treatments. Have any burning questions about wedding beauty? Make sure to ask the experts who are on-hand to help! This area is sure to leave you looking, and feeling, your best for your big day.

RELATED TO: Get Wedding Ready With Our Bridal Beauty Zone

4. Introducing The Quirky Wedding Zone

Planning a wedding with a twist? Be sure to stop by The Quirky Wedding Zone and speak with vendors about how you can make your wedding day unique. Discover unique trends, cakes, fashion and everything in-between.

RELATED TO: Dare To Be Different With Our Quirky Wedding Zone

5. Go VIP at the Wedding Journal Show

Top Tip: Make sure you purchase a VIP ticket online and gain access to the exclusive VIP lounge where you can enjoy a glass of prosecco and some sweet treats! All our VIPs will also get fast-track entry and front row seating to the spectacular bridal catwalk! Oh, and did we mention you will also receive an amazing goodie bag filled with some fantastic products!

With all this, and so much more, you do not want to miss out on the Wedding Journal Show. Mark that weekend in your calendar, purchase your tickets and make it a weekend to remember!

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The post Newly Engaged? 5 Reasons You Need To Visit The Wedding Journal Show Belfast appeared first on Wedding Journal.

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…

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.

Couples who want to go for a ‘mega-moon’ typically spending more than they originally planned and plan a trip to dream destinations. The honeymoon becomes more of a once in a lifetime experience!

Research from Expedia suggested that there has been an increase in these types of honeymoons due to the covid pandemic, as brides and grooms did not getting to experience their honeymoon at the time. This has caused a massive boom in the trend!

At the moment, couples are preferring going for a short break away straight after the wedding and then saving up for a mega-moon.

RELATED TO: How The Latest Covid Rules Are Affecting Weddings

WJ brings you all the advice on how to perfect a mega-moon!

How to Perfect a Mega-Moon!

Go to your local Travel Agent

Choosing a local travel counsellor can take all the stress out of planning your honeymoon!

Honeymoon experts can offer tailor-made honeymoons, holidays  & multi city adventures. Your honeymoon especially, should be one of the most memorable and magical trips you take. If you book your honeymoon through a travel agent, you get the full VIP experience. The service also doesn’t have to eat up your entire budget before you’ve even boarded a plane!

Prices will obviously differ depending on who you go with. Some may charge initial fees and others may not charge any fees at all (and are instead compensated by the hotels and other travel suppliers they work with). We recommend contacting Travel Counsellors or NI Travel Counsellor for all your honeymoon planning!

Make it more of an adventure than a relaxing break if you want to go MEGA!

Why not make your mega-moon more of a break that consists of a multitude of activities or romantic adventures for you and your partner? A mega-moon is meant to be a once in a life experience. You do not want to look back on it and just remember lounging about! Try to break the time up with a mixture of activities you both haven’t done before to make it super memorable and special.

Choose the Destination based on your interests than recommendations.

Try and set aside some time to sit down together and chat about what you both haven’t done before that you would be keen to try. Maybe you would both like to take to some water-sports, or maybe go somewhere with sand dunes and explore historical architecture. Whatever it is, try and hone in on what you both like to do and research places to make that possible. You wouldn’t go to the Maldives if you are an adrenaline junkie!

Allow for some space and time in between.

You will need some time during your honeymoon to relax, have a wander and even get lost together! Try and avoid making a long-winded itinerary for the trip, as no doubt one of you might crash with exhaustion. If your time isn’t planned to the second, you will be able to have fun and laugh if something does go wrong.

Mix it up a bit!

Why not go all out for a few nights and then on a few nights bring it back to basics and spend some quality time together? That way, you will be able to fully appreciate your surroundings, wherever you are! Diversifying your experience will fully allow you to see the area as it is and also allow you to connect with the people and the culture.

Don’t put too much pressure on it.

At the end of the day, it shouldn’t matter where you both are straight after your wedding, as long as you are together! Try and not add too much pressure to the trip as it will no doubt create unnecessary arguments that don’t need to happen. Mega-moons is meant to be the start of something special, so try and embrace the whole trip and all that comes with it.

Still deciding on your honeymoon? Check out all our honeymoon suppliers HERE

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The post How to Successfully Plan a Mega-Moon! Honeymoon 2023 Trends appeared first on Wedding Journal.

Attwood has been sharing an insight into her big day via her instagram page, revealing details such as an EIGHT tier cake, 25,000 flowers and even a celebrity tattooist! 

The reality personality, 32, has filmed the wedding for her own show and revealed she wants to keep some parts hidden as a surprise for viewers when they watch the programme.

RELATED TO: Get The Look: Celebrity Engagement Rings

WJ delves into what we know so far!

THE FASHION

The dress, a bespoke lace-sleeved gown designed by Galia Lahav, was one of two outfits the bride wore on their special day.

The sleeved dress is said to have costed around £30,000. The reality star was surrounded by cameras as they caught every minute of the day.

Olivia also revealed what she was wearing underneath her gown. The star wore silk blue Agent Provocateur knickers which were embroidered with the words ‘I do’ and a lacey white leg garter.

RELATED TO: Our Fav Celebrity Couples Spill Their Secrets To A Successful Marriage

The groom Bradley also looked smart in an all black three-piece suit for the big day.

THE VENUE

The ceremony took place in a London five-star Bulgari hotel.

The couple spent three nights in the luxury hotel and opted to break tradition by spending the night before with her husband-to-be.

RELATED TO: All The Inspirational Bridal Looks From The 2023 Met Gala

The evening reception was then decorated with thousands of flowers.

Olivia revealed the flowers had been put to good use, almost completely covering the round tables where their guests would be seated.

Complimenting the room, which was lit by candles, Olivia said that her wedding co-ordinators had done a ‘better job than she could have dreamed of’.

Olivia and Bradley cut their eight-tier wedding cake, worth £10,000, by luxury cake designer GC Couture, marking the start of the after-party celebrations.

THE…TATTOO’S?!

Photos taken on the big day show the newlyweds getting the phrase ‘Till Death Do Us Part’ inked on their arms by top tattoo artist Pablo.

Olivia changed into a £1776k camisole dress from Christopher Kane for the inking, with the words ‘Till Death’ inked on her arm while Brad had ‘Do Us Part’ on his. 

Guests were also given the option to have a permenant token from the night, as Olivia and Bradley invited celebrity tattoist The Certified Letterboy to come to their wedding and ink their family and friends.

THE GUESTLIST

Best friends Georgia Harrison and Amber Davies, who she met in 2017 on Love Island joined Olivia in the celebrations.

Former TOWIE stars Nicole Bass and Fran Parman were also in attendance after remaining close to Olivia on the ITVBe show in 2019.

After saying ‘I do’ the newlyweds prepared to dance the night away with The Function Band, who have also shared the stage with Grammy Award winner Lewis Capaldi and performed at events for the likes of Mark Wright and Billie Faiers. 

Stay tuned for more celebrity wedding news to come!

The post Inside Olivia Attwood & Bradley Dack’s Celebrity Wedding! appeared first on Wedding Journal.

For a small country, Ireland sure doesn’t lack when it comes to natural beauty. Whether you’re looking for a romantic sea view or to get married on the beach itself, you don’t have to go abroad! From North to South, we’ve rounded up some of our favourite coastal venues so you can say ‘I do’ with a view.

GN Mulranny Park Hotel, Mayo

For the beach bride, this truly is a stunning location – watch the mist clear over the sea, feel the soft lawn underfoot as you make your way through the Victorian causeway to the beach. The award-winning 4-star Mulranny Park Hotel offers a unique landscape where sea, mountains and sky merge together for an all-around breathtaking view.

RELATED: Tullyglass Hotel’s Stunning New Ballroom Venue

Ten Square Hotel, Belfast

Located in the heart of Belfast City Centre, Ten Square Hotel is the perfect venue for your wedding. An idyllic backdrop for your big day, create everlasting memories and capture the first moments of your new life with photographs taken among the beautiful gardens of the majestic City Hall or around historic landmarks of Belfast. Your wedding day is one of the most exciting and memorable days of your life, so allow them to turn your dream into a reality. With their experienced team on hand of knowledgeable wedding coordinators, they will ensure every detail unfolds accordingly to your desires with impeccable attention to detail, imaginative presentation and perfect timing.

Marine Hotel, Ballycastle

If you’re looking for an intimate wedding with a view, the Marine Hotel is the perfect spot. Located on the North Antrim Coast, it is one of Ireland’s finest hotels and provides couples a tranquil and scenic setting with boasting unrivalled seafront views along the Causeway Coastal route.

Merchant Hotel, Belfast

Situated in the heart of Belfast city’s historic Cathedral Quarter, the exceptional luxury of The Merchant Hotel is a beautiful blend of Victorian grandeur and Art Deco elegance. Adorned with the finest furniture and impeccable finishes, The Merchant delivers opulence at every turn.

Why not remove the challenges and complexities of co-ordinating different venues and plan your entire day under one roof? Get ready in one of our opulent rooms or suites before having your ceremony in one of our luxuriously appointed event spaces. The Rita Duffy room is the perfect venue for up to 150 guests while their Roof Garden is ideal for smaller more intimate weddings.

Ballygally Castle, Antrim

What could be more romantic than saying ‘I do’ in a 17th-century castle on the stunning Antrim Coast? Ballygally Castle offers a unique and character-filled day with dramatic backdrops of sea, mountain and rugged cliff views – making it the perfect photoshoot location! Whether you’re planning a large affair or intimate celebration, you’re sure to wow your guests with this charming historic setting.

Harvey’s Point, Donegal

Harvey’s Point offers you exclusivity for your day and has everything you need to wow your wedding guests. Our purpose-built Garden Suite offers you a wonderfully bright room to host your drinks reception and also offers the ideal location should you wish to have your ceremony on the grounds.

Whether it is an intimate celebration, a civil ceremony, a humanist ceremony, or a more exuberant affair they want to work with you to exceed all of your expectations and to turn your wedding day into something beyond compare. With their reputation for fabulous food and personal attention as well as the myriad of accommodation options to suit all preferences.

Kenmare Bay Hotel, Kerry

Nestled in one of the most atmospheric spots on the Wild Atlantic Way, Kenmare Bay Hotel is known as a leading venue in Kerry and Cork and offers a romantic haven of lush scenery, wonderful food, and vibrant views. It is the ideal location for those all-important wedding photos with the magnificent setting of the banqueting suite, overlooking the majestic Kerry mountains.

The Mayson, Dublin

The Mayson, Dublin offers a unique event space in the Dublin Docklands for any couple looking for a wedding venue in Dublin City.

The Mason, Dublin is one of the City’s newest venues and offers the ideal small wedding venue in our Courtyard. It is flooded with natural light, exposed brick interior and is beautifully decorated on the day for the perfect wedding snaps.

Redcastle Hotel, Donegal

For luxury and views on your big day, visit the Redcastle Oceanfront Golf and Spa Hotel. The Ocean Suit offers panoramic views of Lough Foyle and is surrounded by a magical waterfront on one side and a mature parkland on the other. You can even step outside on The Deck to take advantage of all the natural scenery.

LEARN MORE: VIEW ALL OUR VENUE SUPPLIERS HERE

The post 9 Wedding Venues With A Spectacular View! appeared first on Wedding Journal.

The Call her Daddy host has announced her engagement to 39 year old Holywood producer Matt Kaplan in an interview published by W Magazine.

RELATED TO: 15 Of The Most Expensive Celebrity Wedding Cakes

Alex Cooper said Kaplan proposed on the 3rd of March at their home in Los Angeles. She said she had being lured out of the house for a fake photoshoot!

Alex Cooper, 28 told W that it felt so surreal it was as if she blacked out. She said: “I think I said yes at first. It was very surreal.”

Cooper also took to instagram to announce her engagement saying: “At one point this would have been VERY off brand! I’m so thankful for how much the show, the Daddy Gang and I have all grown together. We have gone through some of the most wild, hard, fun and transformative moments with each other over the past 5 years. I’ve felt so comfortable sharing the most intimate moments of my life with you, so it’s only fitting I share this with you… because I definitely wouldn’t be here saying yes to a man and getting married if it wasn’t for all of you… SO DADDY GANG… NEW EPISODE IS LIVE. FIANCÉ FATHER ERA STARTS NOW!”

Fans and celebrities rushed to the post to congratulate the two. Alex Cooper has turned off the comments so she can fully enjoy the moment with her fiancé.

RELATED TO: Inside Pixie Lott & Oliver Cheshire’s Grand Wedding

Before the engagement, Matt tried to make the engagement like a scavenger hunt. He had left special notes for her, with one asking her to meet him at the Buddha in their garden.

Following directions, Cooper made her way out to a 500-pound Buddha that a woman had placed in the courtyard near their home. Alex Cooper then found Kaplan with their two dogs! He got down on bended knee and asked for her hand in marriage.

“You’re my soulmate, the love of my life,” Kaplan said, according to Cooper. “You make me a better man. Please do me the honor of marrying me.”

RELATED TO: Get The Look: Celebrity Engagement Rings

Kaplan has been very supportive of her career and her podcast, which has only made them stronger together. Cooper implied during the interview that her podcast and success has greatly intimidated men in the past.

“Matt has always been my biggest supporter,” she added. “It’s very attractive to have a man not be intimidated by a woman’s extreme success.”

We’re so happy for them both and can’t wait to see the wedding… Stay tuned for more news and updates to come!

The post Call Her Daddy’s Alex Cooper Is ENGAGED! appeared first on Wedding Journal.

The Met Gala, AKA the ‘Oscars of fashion’, is back and we weren’t disappointed with this year’s array of unique, showstopping red carpet styles. Hosted by co-chairs Anna Wintour, Michaela Coel, Penelope Cruz, Roger Federer, and Dua Lipa, this year’s gala had some of the best bridal looks we’ve ever seen on a red carpet.

With everything from striking silhouettes, statement accessories and haute couture gowns, we’re showing you our favourite wedding-worthy looks to give you some inspo for your own aisle attire!

So whether you’re on the hunt for a unique wedding dress or just on the lookout for some bridal style inspiration, keep scrolling to see all the best bridal-worthy looks we spotted at the 2023 Met Gala…

Dua Lipa

It’s fair to say Dua Lipa was the Belle of the Ball at this year’s Met Gala! She went for a different style from her usual and wowed the crowd with this stunning white ball gown from Chanel’s 1992 Haute Couture collection.

This dress features a drop waistline and scoop-neck silhouette, which is an ongoing trending dress shape for bridal. This ensemble is for brides that want the classy, elegant look from day to night.

Penélope Cruz

Penélope Cruz clearly understood the assignment and looked like a celestial goddess in this Chanel Couture’s Spring/Summer 1988 collection.

We love this glitz and glam look for all the brides-to-be looking for a showstopping style! The dress consisted of a full ball gown skirt, silver sequins and white pearls! We absolutely adore this dress.

RELATED TO: Bride Wars Star Kate Hudson Reveals Engagement to Boyfriend Danny Fujikawa

Gisele Bündchen

This jaw-dropping dress is from Chanel’s Spring 2007 Haute Couture collection. We absolutely love the combination of the column sequin silhouette alongside the angelic feather overcoat.

Although you might not want to go this big on your wedding day, you can imagine how you could turn this into your own look. Why not look for a feather overcoat for your wedding day and eye up any sequin dresses when you go wedding dress shopping?

Halle Bailey

For all the fashion-forward brides who believe more is fun, we’re sure you’re going to love Halle Bailey’s gown from Gucci. This look takes your standard wedding gown to the next level!

RELATED TO: Emily in Paris Star Lily Collins Weds Charlie McDowell In A Fairytale Ceremony

Bailey is wearing a semi-sheer lace gown that is simply stunning. Bailey’s look is for the daring bride who wishes to bring the wow factor on her big day. You can certainly steal ideas from this dress such as the neckline and the overall silhouette.

Miranda Kerr

Did someone say bridal goals?! The neckline on this Dior gown is a huge wedding bridal trend right now. Honestly, who wouldn’t love to wear this dress on their wedding day?

Miranda Kerr looked like a real life bride in this A-line, and her overall look will definitely inspire anyone getting married this year and beyond.

Rihanna

The true belle of the ball! We are obsessed with this look from Rihanna.

For this year’s Met Gala, the singer and beauty mogul donned a spaghetti strap Valentino dress, a massive bridal trend from the Spring 2024 Bridal Fashion Week collections.

Lala Anthony

What an amazing example of how much accessories can change the whole look! One thing we’re loving about this look is the chic contemporary details with the upper half of the outfit. The sunglasses, chain detailing, hair band and bracelets make this outfit look show stopping.

Sergio Hudson dressed Lala Anthony in a one-shoulder trumpet gown and leaned into the full bridal white aesthetic. We are obsessed with this!

Still looking for your dream dress? Find your perfect style through our bridalwear suppliers HERE

The post All The Inspirational Bridal Looks From The 2023 Met Gala appeared first on Wedding Journal.

Located in the heart of the stunning Western Algarve coast, The Casa Monte Cristo collection are nestled on an exclusive hillside between the historic towns of Lagos and Praia da Luz. It is the perfect spot for an idyllic destination wedding.

The collection of villas and apartments are privately-owned and family run. Decorated to the highest standard, you can guarantee your wedding images will be picture-perfect.

Combining rustic Portuguese charm with modern elegance and luxury. It’s the perfect location for your beautiful wedding in Portugal.

With the comfort their modern luxury Algarve villas and everything that this stunning region of the Algarve has to offer, Casa Monte Cristo is an exceptional location for families and groups looking to relax, have fun and get the most from a villa holiday in Portugal.

You can also try their concierge service to help with those little extras and make your stay as enjoyable as possible. You’ll have a destination wedding to remember for the rest of your life!

They are proud to be the only wedding venue located in the Algarve to offer 3 unique venues for up to 100 guests plus luxurious accommodation for up to 78 guests and a dream setting for your wedding day with glorious mountain and sea views. 

Over the years, the Casa Monte Cristo collection have enjoyed hosting weddings for couples who have travelled across the world to celebrate their marriage with friends and family in this truly unique region of Portugal. The region offers fabulous opportunities to explore the sites, scenery, and culture of the Algarve with your partner, family & friends.

For further information on the wedding packages that they can offer or to discuss your Algarve wedding with them and find out more details, please contact enquiries@casamontecristo.com.  You might want to take a look at some of the beautiful images of weddings in Portugal they’ve hosted at Casa Monte Cristo collection as well.

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The post The Perfect Location for a Dream Destination Wedding in Portugal. appeared first on Wedding Journal.

With the warmer seasons approaching, we cannot wait to start planning some bright, funky cocktails! Whether it’s a late Spring wedding or a Summer wedding is on the cards, you can personalise your wedding with some little creative touches such as customised cocktails!

We recommend chatting to your caterer or venue about cocktails or personalised drinks options as they may be able to suggest a few seasonal favourites or help you add something extra special for you and your guests to enjoy. Check out these heartwarming recipes below some luxurious liquor inspo! Provided by Aperol, Cointreau, and Chambord and Hendrick’s.

Let’s find some bright and cheerful cocktails for a spring and summer wedding!

Aperol Spritz

We love how bright and colourful an Aperol Spritz can look, especially in wedding photographs! Picture the sunshine and everyone with their sunglasses on – it couldn’t be more perfect! Aperol Spritz is a well known favourite for warmer weather cockails, so if you have this as an option on your wedding day, you are guaranteed to impress.

To make the perfect Aperol Spritz at home, you’ll need the following ingredients:

• Plenty of ice
• Aperol
• Prosecco
• Soda
• An orange slice

Full step-by-step guide for creating this cocktail can be found HERE!

Acceptance Speech

Fancy something a little sweeter but not too much? Cointreau have made this bespoke cocktail specifically for weddings and for those with a sweet tooth. Elderflower can taste divine during spring and summer months. Why not make the cocktail look even classier with some edible gold leaf or a cocktail cover with your initials on it? The options are endless.

• 30ml Cointreau L’Unique
• 30ml Fresh Grapefruit Juice
• 90ml Elderflower Tonic
• 60ml Prosecco
• 1 pinch Edible Gold Leaf

Full step-by-step guide for creating this cocktail can be found HERE!

Mwah-tini

For those with a real sweet tooth, why not have a mwah-tini at your wedding? This cocktail screams summer with the mango, passionfruit and summer berries. Not many people dislike a pornstar martini, so might as well spice it up with this one. You can never go wrong with this option. Add a cocktail topper or some passionfruit on the top as an essential.

• ¹⁄₂ part Chambord
• ³⁄₄ part mango vodka
• 1 part passionfruit juice
• ¹⁄₄ part lime juice
• ¹⁄₄ part sugar syrup
• Garnish with a slice of passionfruit
• Served with a shot of prosecco

Full step-by-step guide for creating this cocktail can be found HERE!

Hendrick’s Clover Club

We cannot help but add this to our list of Spring and Summer cocktails! Clover Clubs are definitely one of the prettiest cocktails out there and can bring a burst of energy on your wedding and in photos! This is the perfect cocktail to add a cocktail topper on the top due to the egg white on the surface. This cocktail is certainly an insta-worthy one during the warmer months.

• 50 ml Hendrick’s Gin
• 25 ml Lemon Juice
• 20 ml Raspberry Syrup
• 1 Egg White

Full step-by-step guide for creating this cocktail can be found HERE!

Still planning your dream wedding day? Check out the BIGGEST wedding directory in Ireland HERE!

The post Bright Seasonal Cocktails For A Spring or Summer Wedding appeared first on Wedding Journal.

The right words can be very tough, especially when it comes to asking for money. The tradition has always been to ask for specific wedding gifts, and asking for a honeymoon fund was unthinkable. Thankfully, times they have changed, and it is much more common practise to ask for funds towards things like your honeymoon.

We have some top tips to get your honeymoon fund started! Keep reading to make sure you are asking for funds in the best possible way.

Let’s dive into some do’s and don’ts.

Do’s & Don’ts on Asking for Honeymoon Funds:

1. Don’t: Request Money on your Wedding Invites.

It is greatly discouraged to request money in your wedding invites. We also do not recommend asking for any gifts on your invites what so ever. Make sure you are using your invites to enclose only your guests invitation to the wedding day.

Why not mention a registry on your social media or create your own website? That way, if people want to contribute they can, and they won’t feel directly targeted to do so. You can also include venue details, lodging options and more information around the dress code on the day.

RELATED TO: Newly Engaged? 5 Reasons You Need To Visit The Wedding Journal Show

2. Do: Make your Honeymoon Fund Quirky and Fun!

Those who want to pay towards your funds will no doubt want to know where exactly it goes. Why not set up a money fund where people can contribute towards specific parts of your honeymoon. For example, a guided tour, your first dinner out, a hotel upgrade or a spa day. That way, they really feel like they made a difference to your break away. This might seem much more exciting than giving you both a couple of pots and pans or a duvet set!

Make sure to have different gifts options with different ranges in prices so there is no overwhelming pressure for all attending.

3. Don’t Limit your Registry too much.

As much as you might not want the traditional gifts, a lot of those attending might want to give you a physical gift. Definitely set up a registry and keep the options simple, but not to the point where it’s a completely limited selection.

Maybe you don’t want new towels and linen, but a pair of sunglasses would make the ideal accessory a honeymoon in the sunshine. You could maybe list skiing equipment to take away with you skiing. This is a thoughtful way to blend traditional registry etiquette with practical gifts that complement your honeymoon. 

RELATED TO: Honeymoon Bucketlist: Overwater Villas

4. Ask in a Fun, Casual and Informative Way.

Some people like poems. Others like to have the request as informative as possible to explain the situation. Others also like to keep it short and simple so the message comes clearly across. Whatever you do, just make sure your true characters show!

We would recommend making sure you mention that there are no expectations for gifts, but donations are greatly welcomed. That way, you and your guests will feel much more comfortable having the conversation again if it comes up.

5. Create your Honeymoon Fund!

Nowadays, you do not have to stick to a traditional wedding registry, as more often than not the modern couple isn’t doing that anymore. Instead, you could organise a honeymoon or cash registry instead. Like traditional registries, these typically consist of information about how your guests can contribute. You can also share details like what you plan to do with the money, alternative ways to contribute, or a message of appreciation. 

There are lots of different honeymoon registry websites out there. Make sure to find one that works for the best of you two.

Most importantly, don’t think about it too much! Create one today and let your guests know so you can start planning your dream honeymoon!

RELATED TO: 11 Sexy Secrets For A Hotter Honeymoon

Looking for your dream honeymoon destination? Check out our directory HERE!

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The post Honeymoon Fund: Do’s & Don’ts on Asking for Money. appeared first on Wedding Journal.

Dreaming of wedding look that will turn heads as you walk down the aisle? We have the perfect modern bridal looks just for you!

We understand that as times are changing, so are bridal looks. Maybe you don’t want to look like the typical bride on your wedding day. We have done the research on what looks are trending going into 2023, so you don’t have to.

From silk metallic dresses to wedding suits and separates, we have it all covered so you can ensure you will stand out from all styles to date.

Satin Metallic Wedding Dresses

Indie by Shikoba Bride, Stocked at Alice May Bridal

For those on the hunt for a silk wedding dress, chances are you’ll want a gown that feels classic and timeless. Often thought of as the epitome of luxury and elegance, silk makes the perfect fabric choice for a wedding gown due to its smooth, shiny, and sumptuous look. We have seen a massive increase in silk wedding dresses, especially with a metallic shine to them.

Bridal Suits

The Bridal Tuxedo by Pronovias. Stocked at McElhinneys

There exists the perfect gown for each bride, and so naturally there is also the perfect tuxedo! Brides are also wearing the trousers today, and they’re doing it with elegance and panache: the classic tuxedo has been reinvented with extraordinarily flattering cuts for the female figure, and with details that make it ideal for original, modern brides.

Embroided Details

Willa Dress by Savin, London. Stocked at Alice May Bridal

The lovely thing about having an embroidered wedding dress is that they look unique and extra special. They often also look even more beautiful in real life than in wedding photos.

Plus you can incorporate personalisation with bespoke embroidery. Why not get your initials also embroided onto the dress? Or choose a gown that reflects your love for one another?

Two Pieces/ Separates

West by All Who Wonder. Stocked at La Bella Sposa

Ever-so-lovely and oh-so-glamorous, the west gown is a stunning two-piece modern boho look for the fashion-forward bride. The large-print leafy lace embroidered silk chiffon starts at the sheer balloon sleeves before folding into the wrist in a chic Victorian-style buttoned crepe cuff. The flattering square neckline is also complemented by the sleek ivory stretch crepe cropped just above the waist and opens into a dramatic open detail in the back. The elongated A-line skirt softly drapes from a detachable belt and unfolds into a soft sweeping train of silky luxe lace embroidered silk chiffon for the final finishing touch.

RELAYED TO: 9 Bridal Boots For The Fashionista Bride

Bespoke Dresses

Lady Arista by TM Couture, Paula Juliet. Stocked at Tamem Michael

We very much believe that bespoke bridal dresses is continuing to trend going into 2023 and beyond.

Tamem Michael offer a full couture made to measure service to clients who can’t find a dress on the rail or who have a special design in mind. With years of experience designing and making wedding dresses for Brides they can also offer a truly honestly, friendly and professional service to all their clients.

Their own TM Couture Irish label (wedding dress designer 2018 awards) is fully designed and made in our studio in Dublin. They offer a grade A dress alteration service, thereby providing a full start to finish experience which takes all the stress and worry away from the bride.

Sustainability

Veria Silk Dress by Reformation. Stocked Online.

Sustainable dresses are on the increase – why not wear your dress after your wedding in a different way? The Veria is a sleeveless, maxi dress with an adjustable, halter neckline and a wrap front that ties at the back neck. It also features an open back and a ruched bodice for a more sophisticated look. It gives you a little extra shape.

Still looking for trending 2023 bridal looks? Check out all our bridalwear suppliers HERE!

The post How to Dress like a Modern 2023 Bride! appeared first on Wedding Journal.

Ever thought about incorporating feathers into your wedding day? We have already looked at retro cakes and different bridesmaid dresses. Now, it is time for the pièce de résistance, incorporating feathers into your wedding day!

From wedding dresses to robes and bridal shoes to room decor, we have gathered a list of what we predict will be trending going forward.

Feathers

Available with Alice May Bridal

If you want your wedding dress to make more of a statement, why not opt for one with feathers! A hint of fluttery feathers on the sleeves of this Rosa Clara dress is enough to draw the eye without overpowering the gown. Paired with the beautifully simple body and transparent sleeves, the overall design of this dress has sent it straight to the top of our wish-list!

RELATED TO: 5 of the Most Retro Wedding Cakes to Instantly Inspire YOU!

Room Decor & Centrepieces

Centrepieces available with Wedding at Tiffany’s

A timeless favourite for many brides decorating the room with feather centrepieces. There are some numerous advantages to using feathers instead of flowers in your centerpieces. They’re less expensive and they are much more striking. They’re less likely to make guests sneeze! We are getting major Gatsby vibes from this overall look. Very classy and elegant.

RELATED TO: 9 Rule-Breaking Bridal Trends We Love

Bridal Shoes

Heels available with MissPap

Make a sexy style statement with these bridal shoes. Not only will these heels add a sultry look to your ensemble but it will also show off your killer legs! From feathers at the front of the heel to the heel, there are many different options to choose.

RELATED TO: 7 Wedding Dress Trends For The Modern & Non-Traditional Bride

Wedding Backdrops

Backdrop Available with Quirky Kitten

Bring the ‘wow’ factor with these backdrops. Combine some feathers and florals to create a stunning backdrop for your photographs. Add neon lighting to make it stand out even more.

RELATED TO: 10 Simple Modern Wedding Dresses for the 2023 Bride!

Wedding Robes

Available at Meshki

The AMALIA Satin Feather Trim Robe has been designed to invoke a sense of old Hollywood glamour. Featuring full length belle sleeves with feather trimming, it closes with a satin waist tie and is ideal for wearing on your wedding day, for prenuptial photos or any time when you want to feel extra special after the big day.

RELATED TO: 7 Flattering Wedding Dresses For The Petite Bride

Wedding Flowers

Bridal Bouquet available at Fleuriste

Feathers can be an amazing feature when you mix them with fresh flowers. It can be a perfect combination of romance, structure and texture. Add as many feathers as you like or keep it simple with one or two to make your bouquet unique and eye-catching.

RELATED TO: Sweet & Sexy Off-The-Shoulder Wedding Dresses For The Trendsetter Bride

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The post New Trend Alert: 6 Ways to Include Feathers On Your Wedding Day! appeared first on Wedding Journal.

Styles definitely come and go, however we have been seeing a consistent rise in retro-style wedding cakes. But where do you begin with a retro wedding cake? How can you ensure it won’t look crazy in years to come?

This edit features bespoke cakes to soft, simple and understated cakes with delicate details.

Let’s find your dream insta-worthy cake!

1. Kitsch Single Tier Wedding Cakes – Camerino Cakes

Enter the kitsch wedding cake trends! Nearly too pretty to eat, these slightly retro, slightly Victorian and extremely OTT creations have been popping up all over Instagram feeds! We definitely think these will continue to trend in the years going forward! Keep an eye out.

RELATED TO: 11 Naked Wedding Cakes To WOW Your Guests

2. Buttercream Painting – Synnott Signature Bakes

This technique is known as buttercream painting and we are simply obsessed! There is something very vintage, yet chic about this trending cake.

Mix it up with your own themed colours on your wedding painted on the cake. Or, you could match the colours to the season that you are getting married. Go crazy with it! Bring out your inner artist.

3. Coloured Marble Cakes – Clare Anne Taylor Cakes

If you want to add some look of luxury to your wedding reception but still have a retro look, then a cake that looks like marble is one way to do it! The coloured marble adds a modern and tasteful touch to any event. Handmade sugar flowers can also add some delicacy whilst also adding that vintage aesthetic.

RELATED TO: 17 Fresh Spring Wedding Cakes That Look Too Cute To Eat!

4. Pastel Coloured Handmade Sugar Roses – Broken Spoon Cakes

Sugar flowers will always make your wedding cake a retro centrepiece. Also, depending on your design, sugar flowers on cakes aren’t necessarily budget bursting.  A single, handmade centrepiece sugar rose surrounded by gorgeous greenery will provide a retro statement luxury finish to almost every style of wedding cake.   

5. Multiple Tiered Kitsch Wedding Cakes – Colhoun Creations

Felt inspired by our Kitsch wedding cake at number one but want more ‘wow’ factor? Check out this multiple tiered kitsch wedding cake with cocktail cherries scattered throughout. You are guaranteed to have a retro yet modern looking cake with this one! Simple, traditional statements are definitely going to continue to trend in the years to come.

RELATED TO: Top 10 Amazing Wedding Cake Ideas to Inspire You!

Feeling inspired by these celebrity wedding cakes? To start planning your dream wedding cake, check out our local wedding cake suppliers HERE!

The post 5 of the Most Retro Wedding Cakes to Instantly Inspire YOU! appeared first on Wedding Journal.

Looking for some stylish bridesmaid inspo for your 2023 or 2024 wedding? Not to worry, we’ve uncovered all bridesmaid dress trends in 2023! We’ve gathered from all the latest bridesmaid collections along with runway trends and our real-life brides!

From neutral shades, to trending colours and elegant patterns, keep on scrolling for some fresh fashion inspo to help your girls look divine and create the perfect wedding aesthetic…

Different Coloured Bridesmaid Dresses

Multiple Styles by True Bride stocked at Tamem Michael & Perfect Day

The biggest bridesmaid dress trend of 2023 that we’ve noticed taking place is individuality! You want your bridesmaids to look and feel their best too and choosing different styles and shapes can help them feel confident and will add a modern and contemporary touch to your day.

Satin Bridesmaid Dresses

Style LB047 by Dessy stocked at Divinity Bridal & Perfect Day

High-shine fabrics are predicted to be in for 2023. Satin is proving to be especially popular. We also expect to see more versatile slip dresses that can then be repurposed. Sustainable fashion is also on the increase. Why not make it look even more special by having all your bridesmaids in different colours, tones and styles!

Neutral Bridesmaid Dresses

STYLE #21559 Chic Chiffon Bridesmaids Dress with Criss Cross Back by Morilee stocked at La Bella Sposa

Wedding parties in 2023 are predicted to be filled with neutral tones. Pro tip: Choose different neutral tones for your bridesmaids that compliment their differing skin tones. You can also choose some dresses with embellishments and some simple and minimalistic to add dimension and texture to the overall look.

Multi-way Bridesmaid Dresses

Thea Twist me Tie me Maxi Dress Green by Monsoon

Switch it up with multi-way bridesmaid dresses such as these beautiful styles from Monsoon. With this type of style you can wrap, twist and tie in multiple different ways to create a unique style and taste that if flattering for each your girls and creates a unique yet put together look.

Floaty & Florals Bridesmaid Dresses

(Left to right) Style Falini & Hanika by Pronovias stocked at  Romantique Bridal & McElhinney’s Bridal Rooms

Spring is just over the hill which means airy, floaty and floral dresses are on the horizon! These are especially beautiful for an outdoor wedding abroad, in the garden or if you just want that feminine and effortless effect for your bridal party.

RELATED TO: 15 Beautiful Blue Bridesmaid Dresses For A Cool Wedding

Sequin Bridesmaid Dresses

(Left to right) Style M676, M489, M686, M695 by True Bride stocked at Tamem Michael & Perfect Day

We love a a little sparkly when it comes to bridesmaid dresses! We’ve noticed subtle sequins becoming a much-loved trend this wedding season with delicate details that add that extra touch of glitz and glam. These styles from True Bride are the perfect example of stylish and simple.

Still looking for Bridesmaid Dress Trends in 2023? Check Out Our Wedding Directory Here!

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The post New Ultimate Bridesmaid Dress Trends Of 2023! appeared first on Wedding Journal.

It’s not everyday you get to marry the partner of your dreams and a wedding ring is right at the heart of your relationship. Symbolising eternal love and commitment, they really are much more than a piece of jewellery.

We are here to help you find the wedding band of your dreams with our Ultimate Wedding Rings for Women in Ireland!

The perfect wedding ring is out there! Here are a few to consider as we dive into the top 5 wedding ring trends for women in 2023 that your loved one will cherish forever!

Some Top Tips Before We Begin…

Many brides wonder if they should still wear their engagement ring on their wedding day.

It is customary for the wedding band to be placed on the finger before the engagement ring so that the wedding band is closer to your heart (how sweet!) With this in mind, we can imagine that this may cause some partners to fumble at the top of the aisle if you decide to wear your engagement ring on the day. Don’t worry as there are so many options on how you can wear your engagement ring on your big day.

1. Wear your engagement ring on another finger or hand for the ceremony. You can then move your engagement ring over to the correct finger once the wedding band has been placed.
   
2. Wear your engagement ring on your left hand as usual. Let your partner know in advance that you will be wearing your engagement ring and to place the wedding band on top. You can then swap these around later.
   
3. Don’t wear your engagement ring. It is perfectly acceptable to not wear your engagement ring at all on your big day. As long as you have placed it somewhere safe and secure so you can pop it back on when you get home.
   
4. Give your engagement ring to a trusted person. Is there someone you can trust your life with at the ceremony. Ask them to keep your engagement ring secure until the ceremony is over and you can pop it back on for photos.

Top 5 Wedding Ring Trends in 2023…

Oval Shaped Wedding Rings

Oval shaped wedding rings are trending and on the rise in 2023! So many women love oval-shaped wedding rings as they are simple and classic. They add an elegant shine to their fingers.

Oval rings are a great option when choosing the right wedding ring because they are classy and elegant. These rings offer a beautiful piece of jewelry filled with everlasting beauty that one can customize at an affordable price. Oval-shaped wedding rings for women are beautiful and fit with just about anything!

Simple Gold Band

Believe it or not, gold bands are making it back into 2023! Gold jewellery has been on the rise for several months, so we are not surprised that couples are going for a gold band! The simple, modern look has also been on the increase as it encourages an overall timeless and classy aesthetic.

Vintage Rings

Would you consider yourself an ‘old soul’? Vintage wedding rings can make those feel as though they are truly unique. These types of rings can come in various shapes, sizes and metals.

The wedding bands are meant to look unique and detailed, so it adds an extra special feel to the overall look. This way, they can be passed down through generations and can add elegance and class.

All in all, wedding rings are known to be special, and that is what vintage wedding rings for women provide.

Unique Rings

Wedding rings for women do not have to be simple! This ring elegantly wraps itself around your finger, complimenting the overall look. Uniquely shaped wedding rings are trending as you can add a ‘one of a kind’ touch to the piece. After all, you are meant to be wearing it for the rest of your life!

You can allow your imagination to run wild with this option and aim to stun many for years to come. This wedding ring for women comes in various styles, including pear, cushion, emerald, and heart, all dazzling ways to make a wedding ring special. ‘Toi et Moi’ rings are also on the rise so make sure to keep an eye out!

Stockable Wedding Rings

Stackable rings are incredible eye-catching and add layers to one’s finger.

Altogether, each ring complements the next to create a beautiful and unique stack of sentimental wedding bands. Each band features different styles and metals, such as white gold and yellow gold, that will add a signature touch to a wedding ring. Stackable rings are great engagement rings; each band has a sentiment to make your loved one feel special.

The post Ultimate Wedding Rings for Women In Ireland! appeared first on Wedding Journal.

If you’re currently on the lookout for amazing wedding venues in Belfast, then you’re in the right place! With a chic and stylish aesthetic, you’re going to love this list of the best wedding venues in Belfast.

Whether you want something rustic or extravagant, there will be something for every taste, style and budget! These wedding venues really bring the wow-factor.

Keep on scrolling to get inspired…

Culloden Estate and Spa

The Culloden Estate & Spa is delighted to unveil the spectacular Cumberland Reception, tailored for more intimate weddings and ceremonies. Be mesmerised by the stunning panoramic views over Belfast Lough and provision for outdoor ceremonies on the ornately enhanced terrace, also perched overlooking 12 acres of beautiful gardens with ancient pine trees. This, and so much more awaits you for your viewing.

Dating back to 1967, arrive through the historic entrance door to a magical place where memories are made and treasured forever. The luxurious Culloden Estate & Spa is the ultimate romantic setting for a wedding venue in Northern Ireland. Set in 12 acres of secluded gardens, it overlooks beautiful Belfast Lough. As a result, it is the perfect spot for photographs. Find out more details HERE.

Stormont Hotel

Hasting Stormont Hotel offers you a superbly elegant and spacious venue for your wedding day. Your wedding venue is more than just a setting; it’s a place where memories are made.

From a fairytale wedding in the magnificent Grand Ballroom to a romantic intimate reception in the Dunmisk Suite with its views over Stormont Castle and Craigantlet Hills. The venue’s impressive choice of banqueting suites has something to suit everyone. The exceptional service and attention to detail ensure nothing but the best for every happy couple. Find out more details HERE.

RELATED TO: 7 Romantic Wedding Venues In County Westmeath

Grand Central Hotel

Next is the Grand Central Hotel in Belfast. If you’re seeking a modern, stylish and sophisticated wedding venue, look no further than the stunning venue. The Grand Central is located in the heart of Belfast’s historic Linen Quarter, where grandeur meets glamour. Historic stories of the linen families and the maritime history of Belfast featuring the omnipresent seahorse, inspire the contemporary design. The luxury is elevated by local authenticity.

As a result, the hotel is truly something to behold, a new jewel for Belfast with an old soul. Getting married in such an iconic Belfast venue also weaves your own story into the threads that create your amazing love story. Equally important, you’ll be forever a part of the Grand Central’s legacy – how exciting! Find out more details HERE.

Europa Hotel

Superbly located in the heart of the city, the world-famous Europa Hotel is the epitome of city chic weddings. Furthermore, the venue provides fantastic photo opportunities with its panoramic views of Belfast and beyond. Therefore, the Europa is the perfect venue for a cosmopolitan couple looking for a stylish and unique wedding location.

At the Europa Hotel, they want to make your wedding truly magical. With the city of Belfast as your backdrop, our luxurious venue offers an idyllic setting to create your dream wedding. From organising a stand–out ceremony to the finishing touches for your stunning reception their experienced and dedicated team of wedding experts will be with you every step of the way, taking care of every detail. Find out more details HERE.

The Malone Hotel

Set in the leafy suburbs of Belfast’s Queen’s Quarter, a short distance from the city centre, The Malone Hotel specialises in one wedding per day, creating a unique and bespoke experience for each couple.

A charming Victorian townhouse with luxurious interior design, The Malone Hotel offers the choice of two suites to host your special day. It also has the space to accommodate 200 guests. Therefore, the contemporary Deramore Suite is the perfect setting for a stylish city wedding. Furthermore, this spacious suite is a cut above with chic decor designed to complement any wedding theme. Relax and dance the night away knowing your special day is in safe hands with the events team of Northern Ireland’s wedding venue of the year 2021. Find out more details HERE.

Titanic Hotel Belfast

The multi award-winning Titanic Hotel Belfast has become one of Northern Ireland’s most unique wedding venues, steeped in history and romance. Located in the heart of Titanic Quarter, just minutes from Belfast City Centre and Belfast City Airport, the hotel provides the perfect location to celebrate your special day.

The hotel is also fully registered to host civil ceremonies or partnerships, allowing you to plan your entire day in this historic venue. Drawing Office One, with its breathtaking vaulted ceiling, is the only surviving example of this type of shipyard architecture in the world. In addition, the large overhead skylights were designed to capture as much natural light as possible, highlighting the beautifully ornate architecture within and providing the perfect setting in which to make those momentous vows to each other. After sundown, the venue glows under glimmering stars and reflections of the spectacular Titanic Belfast building, setting a romantic backdrop for that all-important first dance as a married couple, marking an exciting and memorable start to the rest of your lives together. Find out more details HERE.

RELATED TO: The Best Wedding Venues In County Wicklow

Merchant Hotel

The Merchant Hotel is the ultimate location for luxury weddings in Belfast. Their wedding co-ordinators are completely committed to making your wedding or civil ceremony perfect. Whatever size and style you have in mind, they will help you create your dream day.

The Merchant Hotel also provides all the inspiration, care and attention you deserve for your special day. Whatever kind of celebration you have in mind, from the intimate to the grand, this iconic hotel in Belfast’s historic Cathedral Quarter can bring your dream wedding to life. Furthermore, they have several elegant private events rooms suitable for wedding ceremonies and receptions. The magnificent rooftop garden is beautifully landscaped and enjoys excellent views over Belfast making it a charming location for drinks receptions and photographs whilst our mouth-watering seasonal menus cater to personal tastes and all dietary needs are complemented with superb service. Find out more details HERE.

Still looking for perfect Wedding Venues in Belfast? Check out our Belfast venues directory HERE.

The post 7 Ultra-Chic Wedding Venues in Belfast You Need to Know About Today! appeared first on Wedding Journal.

Looking for something different for your wedding venue? Choose Ulster Museum to make your day something treasured, something iconic, something else! Right in the heart of the city, yet surrounded by the beautiful Botanic Gardens, the Ulster Museum provides a contemporary urban setting for couples with style.

The Ulster Museum is licenced for Civil Ceremonies, with spaces for Religious and Humanist Ceremonies, so you can host your entire wedding in one place, or choose to have either your ceremony or reception in this spectacular building.

Join us for our Wedding Showcase at the Ulster Museum on Wednesday 1st March from 6pm to 9pm. Take the opportunity to visit the Belfast Room with its polished parquet floor and private entrance hall. Imagine saying ‘I do’ here in one of the museum’s original galleries surrounded by art or choose to use the space as a beautiful blank canvas for your own décor.

Picture your guests enjoying relaxed walks in Botanic Gardens or laidback explorations of the museum’s stunning and iconic collections. Invite your guests into the spectacular setting of The Atrium – with its white colour palette, sky-high ceilings and unique architecture – where they will enjoy a truly unforgettable evening. The Atrium is a stunning stage for your entertainment, with plenty of space for dancing and mingling.

Come along to the Ulster Museum Wedding Showcase on Wednesday 1^st March! Meet the best local wedding suppliers and chat to our team about planning your unforgettable wedding at the Ulster Museum.

Tickets for the Wedding Showcase are free! They can be booked online at nationalmuseumsni.org/weddings. Alternatively, you can come along on the evening and explore this ultimate urban wedding venue.

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The post Ulster Museum Unique Wedding Showcase 2023! appeared first on Wedding Journal.

From the fashion, the style and the décor we’ve been loving the Bridgeton vintage vibes! Let’s check out some of our favourite Bridgerton style wedding venues that will have you feeling like a Hastings…

Culloden Estate and Spa

Dating back to 1967, arrive through the entrance door to a magical place where memories are made and treasured forever. The Culloden Estate & Spa is the ultimate setting for a wedding venue in Northern Ireland, set in 12 acres of secluded gardens, overlooking Belfast Lough. Find out more details HERE.

Ballygally Castle

What could be more romantic than saying ‘I do’ in your very own 17th-century castle on the stunning Antrim Coast? Ballygally Castle is proud to have a one wedding per day policy in a truly unique Antrim wedding venue. With a dramatic backdrop of sea, mountains and rugged cliffs just, it adds character and charm of the castle, making it a stunning spot for wedding photographs. Find out more details HERE.

The Manor House

Steeped in history, the origins of Manor House Country Hotel date back to the 17th century. A family-owned property that combines old-world charm with modern luxury. Be greeted with a warm Fermanagh welcome and enjoy charming country house ambience. – find out more details HERE

Temple House

Set amidst a 1,000-acre estate overlooking the castle of the Knights Templar Temple House is a magnificent wedding venue for your wedding.

Temple House, a luxury Country House in county Sligo, is a beautiful Georgian manor set in a private estate of over 1,000 acres. It sits beautifully overlooking a 13th century lakeside castle of the Knights Templar. The Perceval family home since 1665, the manor was redesigned in 1864 and boasts an authentic luxury country house atmosphere. Find out more details HERE

RELATED TO: 6 Chic City Wedding Venues in Ireland

Kinnity Castle

One of Ireland’s leading wedding venues, nestled at the foothills of the stunning Slieve Bloom Mountains in Birr, Co. Offaly, Kinnitty Castle Hotel offers a range of competitive all-inclusive wedding packages in stunning neo-Gothic surroundings. Their attention to detail guarantees you the fairytale wedding of your dreams – find out more details HERE

Lough Erne

This romantic Fermanagh wedding venue, nestled between Lower Lough Erne and Castle Hume Lough offers an unmatched degree of luxury. The hotel offers stunning 360 degree views and the exquisite Ross Suite and Lakeview terrace combine to create a real life fairytale setting. Celebrate your wedding with a stunning backdrop for your wedding photography – find out more details HERE

Glenview Hotel

Glenview Hotel is nestled at the foot of the Great Sugar Loaf Mountain, overlooking the majestic Glen of the Downs. Set amongst 30 acres of woodland walks and exquisitely landscaped gardens. The Glenview has been welcoming guests for over 100 years and is one of Ireland’s best-loved wedding hotels.

A stunning location combined with dedicated and experienced staff. Combined with a sophisticated ambiance, this hotel will truly create a magnificent experience. The team make a promise to each couple to deliver the highest of standards of service and attention to detail. Find out more details HERE

Canal Court

Step into the formal elegance of one of Ireland’s grandest foyer complete with our sweeping mahogany staircase and open fire for breath taking photographic backdrops. Perfectly placed in the heart of Newry city is leading 4-star hotel and wedding venue, Canal Court Hotel & Spa – a family-owned venue renowned for its high-quality service and dining – find out more details HERE

Darver Castle, Louth

Say hello to Darver Castle, a stunning wedding venue which dates back to the 15^th Century and located on 50 acres of rolling countryside. With stunning grounds and luxury interior, this is the perfect aesthetic for a romantic and vintage ceremony – find out more details HERE

Still looking for your perfect venue? Check out all our wedding venue suppliers HERE

If you haven’t already, sign up to our newsletter HERE to stay up-to-date on all things news, style and wedding inspo

The post 9 Bridgerton Style Venues in Ireland You’ll Love appeared first on Wedding Journal.

Dreaming of a classic wedding that will never look dated? These simple modern wedding dresses are perfect for some timeless photographs that will look great for decades to come!

Without further ado, keep on scrolling to get inspired with these trending styles…

88126 by Justin Alexander

Stocked at Orchid Bridal

This gown is all about elegance. With a Sabrina neckline, this fit and flare gown is sure to accentuate your figure. The illusion back is outlined by Venice lace that is also featured along the back hem. The gown is finished with chapel length train. We think this would be the perfect timeless look for any wedding!

DELANCEY, ÉLYSÉE by ENZOANI

Stocked at Romantique Bridal

A fresh take on a classic, clean ball gown silhouette, Delancey features a spectacular, figure-flattering draped bodice, exquisite side draping, a subtly sexy high slit, and a sweetheart neckline with striking, uniquely modern pointed edge detailing.

Alba by Luce Sposa

Stocked at Tomorrows Bridal

A fitted dress with asymmetrical sleeves is made of mikado fabric. A bodice with a sweetheart neckline is decorated with drapery that matches with a sleeve that reminds a bow. The gown is embellished with a detachable belt. The back is naked, and there is a zipper and hidden lacing. A skirt emphasises the hips and goes into a long train. There is also a long detachable skirt. This is one of many simple modern wedding dresses to look out for this year!

D3631 by Essence of Australia

Stocked at Angel Star Bridal

Treat the aisle like your personal runway in this show-stopping wedding dress of matte Mikado. Luxe glamour exudes from Style D3631, from the off-the-shoulder shawl to the simple and chic pleated bodice. A detachable bow adds a fashion-forward statement, while the voluminous A-line skirt unfolds into a stylish side slit and full train for a striking statement. This wedding gown is also available in plus sizes. This dress is guaranteed to look timeless through the decades!

RELAYED TO: 9 Bridal Boots For The Fashionista Bride

Ottis by Modecca

Stocked at Bridal Elegance

Two looks in one make this style perfect for your big day. This fit and flare gown Otis with gorgeous beaded lace details will make you stand out. Beautiful beaded lace adorns the narrow plunging neckline bodice and it flows through into the fitted skirt. Sparkling lace throughout the gown adds the perfect amount of sparkle and will definitely make you shine bright. A deep V-backline gives this wedding dress a romantic and feminine touch. Style this look with a detachable tulle train for a second look that will wow your guests. This dress is also available without the detachable skirt – Otis-D.

POLINA by Bianco Evento

Stocked at Loralea Bridal

Polina is a beautiful sleeveless bridal gown. This romantic dress features a Queen Anne neckline along with a V-back. The simple skirt allows the dress to look airy and weightless. We are loving the embroided lace also at the tip to add some simple detailing. This dress really is the combination of chic, yet simple!

7024 by Stella York

Stocked at LA Bridal House

A fresh twist on modern royal style, Stella York introduces Style 7024. A clean sheath silhouette of soft, high-quality crepe features signature seaming throughout to support a defined figure, for a completely effortless feel. The central front plunge throughout the high halter neckline takes this Meghan Markle-inspired style to the next level of modern bridal design, complemented by a wide diamond opening in back. The back of this gown flows into a smooth train detail with fabric-covered buttons throughout.

RELATED TO: Bridal Gloves To Take Your Look To The Next Level

Idan by Aire Barcelona

Stocked at The Bridal Company Templepatrick

This dress by Aire Barcelona features alluring designs to enhance the natural beauty of the carefree, romantic bride who wants to emphasise her femininity without sacrificing elegance.

Idan breathes modern without sacrificing elegance, with floaty tulle skirts, delicate embroidered bodices and fitted gowns with ethereal capes. This is a dress in which romance and femininity take centre stage.

MJ805 by Madison James

Stocked at Lauren Elizabeth Bridal

The Logan gown draws inspiration from the timelessness of an understated strapless silhouette.

For Madison James by Allure, every gown features details to set it apart and make the bride shine. They believe brides deserve to be at their most beautiful, and our aim is not only to design and produce the perfect gown but to provide daily inspiration for our brides-to-be. You couldn’t get more timeless wearing this dress! Add some cap sleeves or an overcoat for an extra wow-factor.

RELATED TO: 11 Bridal Trends To Inspire You From The Met Gala 2022

7312 by Stella York

Stocked at Tamem Michael

This dress is absolutely jaw-dropping! Be sure to be completely centre stage in this dress.

Inspired by the world’s hottest red carpet trends, Stella York bridal gowns are imagined and handcrafted with stunning modern, yet simple details.

Still looking for simple, modern wedding dresses? Check out all our bridalwear suppliers HERE!

The post 10 Simple Modern Wedding Dresses for the 2023 Bride! appeared first on Wedding Journal.

One way to prevent a dull Valentine’s Day is planning for a fun and flirty night with your partner! Nothing gives us girls a boost more than a sexy Valentines Day lingerie set! We’re sure your partner wouldn’t mind it either!

Time is ticking before Valentines weekend and Valentines Day, so we have found some inspiration for you to grab! Check out these sizzling sets to start your day with some spice…

RELATED TO: 11 Sexy Secrets For A Hotter Honeymoon

Lady In Red

If there’s one way to get your partner’s attention, its walking into the bedroom wearing this sultry red set! Boux Avenue have this set ready for your night ahead! The hot red colour adds that fiery touch to your ordinary lingerie – finish this off with a lacy robe and you will definitely be off to a good start!

RELATED TO: Last Minute Romantic Getaways in Ireland for Valentines Day!

Little Black Number

Take your Valentines Day lingerie to the next level with a super saucy black number that is sure to make your man’s heart pound! This number is from Ann Summers! Not only does this colour look good on everybody, but this sexy set with cut-out details will have you feeling hotter than ever and totally irresistible.

RELATED TO: Get Sexy: Lingerie To Wear On Honeymoon

Pink to Make them Wink!

For a super sweet and feminine feel, slip on this matching set for a night made in heaven! This colour will give you that innocent yet flirty look that quietly whispers, “come and get me” – they won’t be able to resist! The Valentines Day lingerie ensures you will feel comfortable and sexy!

This set is available at Orchid Lingerie.

Match the Petals on the Bed

Want to remind your man just how lucky they are? This sultry set will have you looking like an angel sent straight from heaven to make all his dreams come true! This set from Lounge Underwear is the perfect style for all moods! Add a white satin dressing gown to finish the look for the perfect night.

RELATED TO: Just How Sexy Is Your Star Sign?

Flirty Florals

Elevate your Valentines Day hotness and go all out with this mesmerising set from Pelie with purple mesh and embroidered florals. Your new partner won’t know what’s hit them when you walk into the room and reveal this sultry set under a black silk robe – there’s only one way this is going to go!

RELATED TO: Serve Up The Love This Valentine’s

Corset Couture

We truly believe a sexy corset set is the way to your partner’s heart! This sultry find will fit perfectly snug right underneath your outfit that evening so you can go straight from the dinner to the bedroom!

This stunning set is from Lovehoney.

RELATED TO: How Many Couples REALLY Have Sex On Their Wedding Night?

Luxurious Lace

Make a statement and surprise your partner in an ultra sexy lace number that gives you sex appeal from head to toe! This spicy set from Ann Summers will have you feeling like a Victoria Secret Supermodel – bring that confidence into the bedroom, and it’s sure to be a steamy sensation.

RELATED TO: Love Is In The Air

Saucy Straps

Planning to celebrate Valentines Day and make it extra exciting? Make things wild and interesting in a strappy and edgy set, because what’s Valentine’s Day without something exciting between the sheets, right? We’re loving this saucy set from BlueBella and we are sure it will drive your partner crazy!

RELATED TO: Sex Positions Couple’s Have To Try For An Unforgettable Night

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The post 8 Sizzling Lingerie Sets To Instantly Surprise Your Partner on Valentines Day! appeared first on Wedding Journal.

Join and experience what Killeavy Castle Estate and their preferred suppliers have to offer to create your perfect Wedding Day. Their Events Team shall be available throughout the day to answer any enquiries you may have.

A selection of quality exhibitors will be showcasing their services from photographers, wedding cars, entertainment, flowers, cakes and many more.

Complimentary Prosecco and a selection of canapes will also be available for guests along with a Wedding Showcase Information Pack.

Furthermore, each ticket entitles the bearer to one entry at the Wedding Showcase at the designated time. A maximum of four tickets can be purchased at one time. Spaces are limited so reserve your place now.

They look forward to showcasing all that Killeavy Castle Estate and their preferred suppliers have to offer! They can’t wait to make your Wedding Day a special long-lasting memory that will be enjoyed by all attending.

More About Killeavy Castle Estate

Killeavy Castle Estate is the perfect antidote to the modern fast paced world. As the centrepiece of 365 acres of mixed farm and woodland in County Armagh’s stunning Slieve Gullion, it’s the ideal place to escape, retreat, relax and unwind. Easily accessible only 10 minutes outside Newry City and one hour from both Belfast and Dublin Airports makes it Northern Irelands premier Hotel and Spa destination.

Killeavy Castle Estate are also all about living life more slowly and in the present. They cherish those ahhh moments for when the distractions of the modern world finally ebb away and you get closer to the things that matter most. This secluded country Estate will provide everything you need to emerge fully rejuvenated.

Perfect for a unique getaway, wedding or special celebration, take a closer look at everything the Estate has to offer. From a beautifully restored Castle, boutique Hotel accommodation, superb cuisine with ingredients sourced from our local farm, Spa and endless opportunities for walking in a stunning location.

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The post Killeavy Castle Estate Unique Wedding Showcase 2023! appeared first on Wedding Journal.

We love a good Real Life Wedding in Ireland! Today we’re sharing Aria and Pierce’s chic and rustic day at Ballybeg House in County Wicklow on the 19th of July 2022!

This perfect pair had everything from sequin bridesmaid gowns to a dreamy venue! Rob O’Neil Photography captured every heart-felt moment where we could really feel the love, so let’s take a closer look…

HOW THEY MET

We’re throwing it all the way back to the early 2010s when Alia and Pierce were work friends, but their love story didn’t really begin until Alia handed in her notice to start another work adventure!

“Pierce and I met in Glasgow at a business meeting at The Corinthian Club in 2013. We both worked for the same company, but he was based in Belfast and I was based in Edinburgh. It was two weeks before I was leaving the company that our paths crossed and we met. I’d only ever dealt with him via email, so when we met I was like ‘wow, he’s gorgeous!’

RELATED TO: Love Wins: Rowan & Daniel’s Fun-Filled Day at The Merchant Hotel

“I said to the girls who I worked with I’m going to marry Pierce Hunt, they laughed at me. But I knew that he was the one. Thankfully, he felt the same about me and then a few weeks later, I was leaving and I sent out a generic thank you email to head office. He was the first to reply! He messaged saying he would like to look me up when he’s next in Edinburgh. 6 months later he came to visit for a weekend and we have been together ever since. We officially got together in the May and then I moved to Belfast in January 2014.”

THE PROPOSAL

Alia and Pierce got engaged on the 30th November 2019 and it came as a surprise! They had been together exactly 6.5 years. It was a tradition to celebrate every 6 months. Alia explains how she expected her proposal to go.

She explains, “we travel a lot and I always thought Pierce would propose on a trip away. It was a Saturday afternoon after I’d been out shopping with his sister!

“We had glug and games planned at our friends that night. I came home and Pierce said there was a change of plan and that we were going out for dinner that night. I said ‘oh okay’, and went to start getting ready. Pierce was dressed and changed in the fastest time that I’ve ever seen!”

THE BIG MOMENT

After an hour, Alia returned down stairs and walked into their gorgeous lounge where they had put up their Christmas tree a few days before.

Alia describes the moment, “There was a bouquet of beautiful pink roses for me and I said, ‘what are these for?’ He said because I deserve them, at this point I had no clue. We went into the kitchen to get a vase and I couldn’t find a single one! Pierce mentioned they were under the sink. I was busy getting the vase and as I turned around to find Pierce, he was already down on one knee!

“He very romantically told me that it was our 6.5 year anniversary and that he wanted to marry me, he had the ring box open and I started crying. I was so over joyed and cried saying ‘Yes, of course!’

“He also said that going away was too predictable and that he wanted to catch me off guard, which he really did. In our home that we built together was truly the most romantic place he could have picked.”

THE PLANNING PROCESS

Since the proposal happened at Christmas, the couple decided to hold off the planning process until the New Year. That way, they were also able to enjoy the buzz of being newly engaged. Alia and Pierce had always dreamed of getting married abroad, however the pandemic hit and they were unable to plan any further!

A trip to Donegal convinced the lovebirds to focus on a wedding in Ireland instead. Alia explains the thought process for their real life wedding in Ireland.

“I started looking at venues all over Ireland that would give us the flexibility and freedom to still enjoy the feeling of an abroad wedding and a 3 day duration. Whilst looking on countless articles, I stumbled across Ballybeg House in County Wicklow and it was described as a quirky and intimate venue set against the back drop of the Wicklow mountains.

RELATED TO: Opposites Attract: Melissa & Mark’s Showstopping Day at The Wool Tower

“We were sold and we arranged a trip down to view the venue as soon as we were able too. The minute we turned up the drive way we both looked at each other and said this is it. Greeted by a paddy the owner he was so warm and welcoming I knew that is how I wanted our guests to feel when they arrived.

Ballybeg House is available for exclusive private hire Monday -Thursday and has accommodation for up to 50 guests. This meant that Alia and Pierce could have that ‘abroad’ feeling they always wanted.

Alia says, “The estate is big and there are a couple of properties set way up in the woods and it is just stunning.”

WEDDING PLANNER

“We appointed Tee o Toole as our wedding planner she got married at Ballybeg and she really was a super star from start to finish.

“Tee very quickly understood the style we wanted to create and she was always on hand to ensure everything was just as had wanted. She made our wedding so special she had thought of things I hadn’t even thought of. Tee made my bouquets and offers this service along side the wedding planning and she is such a special lady to have with you on your big day.”

DREAM WEDDING SUPPLIERS

 Our wedding suppliers were:

• Venue – Ballybeg House County Wicklow,
• Wedding Planner – Tee o Toole,
• Makeup – Anita Conroy Makeup
• Wedding Dress – Reflections Bridal Lisburn
• Wedding Dress Designer – Naviblue “Blandy”
• Hair – Michelle Conroy
• Music -Ukebox for drinks reception, Santoria in the evening, Day Two – Local singer, Mush Malloy.
• Catering – Pauline and Infrid Furlong, Mollys Larder.
• Flowers – Tee o Toole

RELATED TO: How To Find Your Dream Wedding Team

“Our photographer was the incredibly talented Rob O’Neil photography. He captured our day in such a way we are gobsmacked!

“My Wedding Dress was bought at Reflections Bridal Lisburn. The designer was Naviblue Bridal and my dress was Blandy. I wore Jimmy Choo shoes and my bridesmaids wore sequin gowns from coast. The men wore black tie tuxedos.

“Pierces tux was one he already had and loved so he actually wore it again!”

FAVOURITE MOMENT

One of the couples favourite moments was the 31 degree heat as they were having the drinks reception with ‘Can’t take my eyes off you’, by Frankie Vallie playing!

They truly got their dream real life wedding in Ireland!

“Our wedding band, Ukebox played ‘Can’t take my eyes off you’ and my bridesmaids started doing a little leg kick together. Pierce and I decided to also dance and everyone was watching! The sun was shining and it was that moment we realised we were so full of love and loved by everyone else. It was just a really special moment!

RELATED TO: Bold & Beautiful: Jenna & Ashleigh’s Rustic Real Life Wedding

“The mountains are dazzling behind and the moment was just so special as it was completely unplanned. Also as we walked through the confetti arch after just being married it was a real feeling of joy and love.”

BRIDAL ADVICE

Alia says, “Our biggest piece of advice is literally create the day you want and pick a venue that allows you to do just that. There were many venues we viewed that were very strict and for us having the freedom of the venue was key to our day.

“Also do what brings you joy and try not to people please and do what you as couple both desire. Enjoy the day and soak it up, it’s the one time all the people you love are all together in one place just for you.

“Since our wedding, my darling Grandmother passed away and to be honest I’m just so grateful that we had such a magical few days all together. I’ll treasure the pictures!

“Also remember if your budgeting try and stick within in it, all the little details you think so much about really on the day don’t matter. Everyone is there to celebrate you so do just that and enjoy it all”

What a perfect real life wedding in Ireland!

If you would like your wedding day featured in Ireland’s Wedding Journal, feel free to contact us at: chloe.murray@pentonpublication.co.uk. We would love to see your pics also!

Have you booked your tickets for The Wedding Journal Show yet? Get exclusive VIP & discounted tickets online now…

The post Idyllic and Intimate: Alia & Pierce’s Blissful Real Life Wedding appeared first on Wedding Journal.

Join me for 15% off today!

The February Cinch Fast 30 Challenge starts today – and it’s ideal for anyone who wants to try Intermittent Fasting to help them lose weight, and upscale their health in a new, easy, simple and fun way!

The Cinch Fast 30 has helped over 1,000 people world-wide to lose weight and improve their health & the Cinch team are committed to helping as many people as they can.

After many attempts to lose weight, I have been tempted to try the Intermittent fasting. I had always been trying to shed well more than a few pounds, however, after many failed attempts, I had ended up putting more weight on!

When I was approached by CINCH Fast 30 to do the 30 day challenge, I agreed. I want to provide the answer on whether this really works or not!

So on behalf of all those sceptics, I am taking one for the team and will be blogging my journey with a Wedding Journal Review!

On the website www.cinchfast30.com , there are amazing success stories available.

For example, Margaret, age 59, was one of the very first people to sign up to the Cinch Fast 30 programme in May 2021 and has lost 6 stone to date, completely transforming her life!

Margaret explains how her journey has went from strength to strength with the 30 day cinch.

There are various windows you can choose. You can fast for differing hours and eat in your own chosen window.

I have decided my window is 1pm until 7pm to start with. I am not a great Breakfast person anyway!

The Evening is my problem and the good old wine at the weekend!

There are also common myths of intermittent fasting, such as the idea that you can eat anything you wish in that window.

I should  be so lucky! That’s a no!

I will be trying to eat good food in the window.

Things like low carbs and low sugar.

I have to be honest, I don’t always eat because I am hungry, so I guess I need to remind myself on occasions why I need to do this!

You can find out all the science on the website www.cinchfast30.com and recipes to fill you up during your eating hours.

For the price of just £59.99 (Silver package) you will get (use Wedding Journal voucher code below to get an extra 15% off):

• Full Guide to Intermittent Fasting
• Over 75 delicious, easy recipes featuring REAL food in an E-Recipe book
• Accountability E-Journal
• Series of Work-Outs with Fitness Mama
• Habit Hacker & Tracker E-document
• Access to a closed Facebook Group
• Access to a WhatApp Group
• Invitation to events
• Members area on website with videos, food demos and exercise and nutrition and facts!
• Over 75 delicious, easy recipes featuring REAL food in an E-Recipe book

Use Code: ‘WJ-Silver’ 15% off this package:

Sign up here: www.cinchfast30.com

The post Join the Cinch Fast 30 Plan and Get Ready for Your 2023 Wedding! appeared first on Wedding Journal.

The perfect opportunity to view our multi-award-winning wedding facilities first hand and meet our expert team, preferred suppliers, live entertainment, refreshments and exclusive package offers.

Experience Killyhevlin Lakeside Hotel’s fairy-tale romantic location on the banks of Lough Erne Lough Erne which is complimented by extensive landscaped grounds and gardens leading to a jetty sets the picture perfect scene for your dream day.

Our Lakeside location makes you feel like you are in a ‘little world of your own’ yet only a short distance from Enniskillen, Ireland’s only island town.

Directly overlooking Lough Erne, The Lisgoole Suite hosts up to 350 guests; flooded with natural daylight featuring large bay windows, and a stunning chandelier is a focal point of the beautiful interiors and will be dressed to inspire Wedding Showcase guests. A large dedicated bar and dance floor ensures couples can entertain their guests in style. The Lisgoole suite leads on to a dedicated terrace area with outdoor seating to make the most of the Lakeside views.

No matter how grand or intimate you wish your special day to be, Killyhevlin Lakeside Hotel will be happy to meet your every need. Sample menus and bridal suites can be viewed along with assistance from the hotel’s expert wedding planning team. Enjoy complimentary refreshments and meet our recommended suppliers to help you plan your special day from start to finish.

As a family owned hotel we have over 40 years’ experience in planning and organising weddings, our experienced and helpful wedding team will ensure that your wedding day exceeds your expectations.

We will be joined by a selection of expert Wedding Suppliers to help you plan every aspect of your day from Bridalwear, Groomswear, transport, stationary, Wedding, Jewellery, Cake and entertainment as well as suppliers to help you look and feel your best from health and fitness, well-being and dental.

The expert Wedding team at Killyhevlin look forward to welcoming couples this Sunday 29^th January 2pm – 5pm.

For more information, please contact our Wedding Team – call +44 (0)28 6632 3481 or email events@killyhevlin.com

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The post Killyhevlin Lakeside Hotel & Lodges Wedding Showcase! appeared first on Wedding Journal.

Cultra Manor cannot wait to meet all of Ireland’s newly-weds this weekend to give them the best deals for their perfect venue!

Set within the picturesque grounds of the Ulster Folk Museum, Cultra Manor is your exclusive and secluded wedding venue.

Nestled in 175 acres of rolling countryside, just 10 minutes from Belfast city centre, this jaw-dropping location is the perfect place for your wedding ceremony and reception to unfold.

They have a special message they would like to announce prior to meeting you all!

Congratulations on your engagement! If you’re looking for a unique and breath-taking wedding venue for your special day, Cultra Manor offers the perfect blend of vintage charm and modern luxury just outside of Belfast.

Explore the stylishly ornate rooms, sophisticated spaces and beautiful grounds of Cultra Manor at the Wedding Open Weekend on 14^th and 15^th January. The wedding team will be on hand to answer any questions and understand exactly how you imagine your wedding day.

After taking in the grandeur of the Manor, you will have complimentary access to the Ulster Folk Museum and the fabulous photo opportunities it has to offer. From turf fires to thatched roofs and silent cinemas to sweetie shops, there are countless chances to capture memorable moments for your album.

Cultra Manor will be providing an Open Weekend on Saturday 14th and Sunday 15th of January 2023! You will be able to visit them from 11am until 4pm.

Tickets to the Wedding Open Weekend are free and can be booked at cultramanor.co.uk or just come along to the venue on either day.

Make sure not to miss this one!

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

The post Visit Cultra Manor Open Weekend this Saturday and Sunday! appeared first on Wedding Journal.

All you have to do to enter is purchase a ticket for our Wedding Journal Show at the Dublin Convention Centre on Saturday 14th and Sunday 15th January 2023!

For all those busy wedding planning out there or just looking for your winter wedding reception, this is the perfect opportunity to relax knowing that everything could be planned and paid for…(scroll for more details!)

LUSTY BEG – A Unique Wedding Venue!

One of the most beautiful locations in Ireland, Lusty Beg offers a range of select accommodation to suit all. These include the 39 en-suite bedrooms along the lakes shore, (just a short walk from the main function room) and the 4* Inish lodges for those who don’t like to leave home comforts behind! These rooms all overlook the Lough and enjoy a secluded position amongst the trees.

Lusty Beg Island Offers A Distinctive, Exclusive And Utterly Unique Wedding Venue

Why not welcome your wedding guests with a champagne reception and canapés on arrival and mingle to the background music of a string quartet playing some contemporary and classical tunes. Seeing as the wedding will be for November 2023, why not pull up a chair at the fire and sip on a glass of Mulled Wine!

There Is Something For Everyone!

From simple to extravagant, traditional to modern, no requirement is beyond Lusty Beg’s capability, delivering both individually tailored and complete wedding packages. So whether you want to arrive by boat or plane, or hire out the island for your exclusive use, Lusty Beg wedding venue island is your oyster.

The seclusion and privacy of the island affords a lasting memory of your special day.

This total giveaway is priced at around £16k! So…what are you waiting for?

Enter now for your chance to win this fabulous prize.

Room Hire: £1500, Wedding Meal: £67.50 x 100= £13500, Bridal Suite: £180, Evening Buffet: £780

Total giveaway: £15 960

To find out more about Lusty Beg Island, view details HERE

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The post WIN Your Wedding Reception for 100 Guests at Lusty Beg Island Resort! (CLOSED) appeared first on Wedding Journal.

White Designer studio has only been running for five years and has rapidly won the hearts of many brides – with all saying “YES” to the dress!

Nicola worked with the previous owner before buying the company over at the end of 2018.

Focusing primarily on Bridal and Communion appointments, Nicola has continued to accelerate interest throughout Ireland through various means.

For instance, she has been exhibiting at our Wedding Journal Show since 2019!

RELATED TO: How A Trip To The Wedding Journal Show Ended In Celebration for David & Stephanie

We caught up with Nicola on what she is most looking forward to this year.

“I absolutely love the show. Obviously COVID meant missing it for the past 2 years but I’m so excited for the next show in Dublin! It’s going to be brilliant seeing everyone again and getting back to normal.”

White Designer Studio is based in Navan, County Meath, and offers a relaxed and friendly shopping experience where you have the shop exclusively for a 2-hour bridal appointment.

Catering for brides of all shapes, sizes, styles and budgets, you are guaranteed to find your dream dress.

RELATED TO: Winter Wedding Trends: Bold & Beautiful

Designers that they work with include Kenneth Winston, Ella Rosa, Sophia Tolli, Daniela Di Marino and Romantica Silhouette collection.

White Designer Studio also has a great selection of veils, belts, headpieces & accessories to complete any bridal look.

Nicola explained why she loves her job so much.

“I absolutely love helping brides find their perfect dress! I can offer them so much advice, while also welcoming each bride into a ‘no pressure’ environment to buy”.

“Finding the perfect dress is so different for everyone and it’s not a decision that can be rushed! You absolutely have to love your dress, but you will know it when you find the one” she says.

RELATED TO: Winter Wedding Trends: Bold & Beautiful

Nicola loves having chats with everyone who visits her stand.

“It’s so important for me to do the show because it’s the next two years of brides that will visit my shop! Building confidence with your customers is so important.”

Nicola explains, “They need to know if you are a good fit for them or not as we play an important role in their wedding planning journey with plenty of visits to the shop for fittings.

RELATED TO: Statement Wedding Dress Trends From Our Bridal Catwalks

“This year I will be giving each bride a voucher for €100 off a new wedding dress (sale dresses not included), so pop by the stand for a chat!

“We are so excited to meet everyone.”

When we asked Nicola what three words she would use to describe shopping at White Designer Studio and she said “friendly, relaxed and enjoyable”.

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

The post Meet the Exhibitor – White Designer Studio Offers €100 Off All Dresses! appeared first on Wedding Journal.

With Halloween upon us, we’re feeling all the autumnal vibes this weekend! Whether it’s a late Autumn wedding or a winter wedding is on the cards, you can personalise your wedding with some little creative touches such as customised cocktails.

We recommend chatting to your caterer or venue about cocktails or personalised drinks options as they may be able to suggest a few seasonal favourites or help you add something extra special for you and your guests to enjoy. Check out these heartwarming recipes below some luxurious liquor inspo! Provided by Chambord, Don Papa Rum, and El Bandido Yankee.

Peanut Butter and Jelly Old Fashioned – A fun twist on the classic drink and nostalgic sandwich!

1.5 oz Skrewball Peanut Butter Whiskey

.5 oz Chambord Liqueur

Dash of Bitters

Add ingredients into a mixing glass.

Add Ice, stir and strain into a rocks glass with a large ice cube.

Pumpkin Spice Hot Toddy – For when you’re craving a PSL with a kick

1.5 oz EBY Reposado Tequila 

1 oz Pumpkin Spice Syrup 

1 oz Fresh Lemon Juice 

2 Dashes Orange Bitters 

8 oz Boiling Water 

Combine EBY Reposado, pumpkin spice syrup, and lemon juice in a mug. Fill with hot  water. Top off with a couple dashes of orange bitters. Garnish with cinnamon stick and  dried lemon wheel.  

Pumpkin Spice Syrup 

1 Tablespoon Pumpkin Spice Seasoning Blend 

1 Cup Water 

0.5 Cup Light Brown Sugar 

Combine all ingredients in a small saucepan. Stir over medium heat until sugar is  completely dissolved. Simmer until mixture is reduced by about half. Cool and then fine  strain using either muslin, or a nut milk bag. Bottle and store. Should keep refrigerated for about 3 weeks.

THE Fresh COAST – Where Fall Flavors Meet Year Round Paradise

1.5 oz Don Papa 7yr

.25 oz Lime juice

.75 oz Chinola Passionfruit liqueur

.25 oz Simple syrup

Add all ingredients into shaker with ice. Shake hard and strain into coupe. Garnish with a blackberry.

The post Seasonal Cocktails For An Autumn or Winter Wedding appeared first on Wedding Journal.

Christmas is just around the corner and as we all know, December is the peak month for getting engaged – with Christmas Eve being a particularly popular date! For those who are thinking about proposing during this festive period (or if you think this Christmas might be the one where you get a ring!) this guide is the perfect place to make sure you choose the right engagement ring style. 

Sam Mee is a Vintage Jewellery Enthusiast and Proprietor of Antique Ring Boutique who gives his top tips for ring shopping. He says: “Shopping for engagement rings can be a daunting experience for many. You’ve got the 4Cs to think about – colour, clarity, carat weight and cut. And that’s just talking about diamonds. However, at Antique Ring Boutique we believe that the experience should be an unforgettable one, for all the right reasons. To make the journey one you’ll never forget, it’s a good idea to have an idea of the kind of ring your partner wants.”

Step 1: Consider their style

You know your partner, and their style better than anyone. Think about the things they gravitate towards in other aspects of fashion and design. Is their personal style more bohemian, favouring personal taste above design principles, or are they more eclectic and tend to bend rather than break the principles of design?

Take a look at their wardrobe and consider what sort of style they lean more towards, If your partner has a collection of cool vintage finds then perhaps an antique-inspired engagement ring is exactly what they are looking for. Alternatively, if their style is more pared-back and minimalist, then perhaps they’d prefer something understated with a clean design.

Step 2: Take inspiration from their other jewellery pieces 

Start paying attention to the jewellery pieces they already own. Do they exclusively wear only gold or silver pieces, or do they like a selection of both? It’s also worth paying attention to the style of their jewellery. Are their favourite pieces sleek and simple or do they prefer lots of detail and sparkles? 

Step 3: Take a peek at their Pinterest boards 

If your partner is on Pinterest, it’s worth browsing her boards to see if they might have pinned photos of their dream ring. If you’re lucky, they may have pinned multiple versions of the same ring, meaning you’ll have plenty to go off. If they have more than one engagement ring style on their Pinterest board, note the common features that pop up again and again. 

Step 4: Pay attention to subtle signs 

If you’ve started talking about marriage, it’s possible your partner has also started to hint about their engagement ring preferences. When the subject arises, listen carefully to what they have to say. Have they gushed over a friend’s new engagement ring? It’s also a good idea to pay attention to what their close friends and family say about the subject because chances are they’ve already confided in them about what engagement ring style they love the most.

The post How To Find Your Partner’s Dream Engagement Ring appeared first on Wedding Journal.

For those who picture saying ‘I do’ on a white sandy beach under the sun or in their favourite city away from home, you’ve come to the right place to find out how to plan a wedding abroad.

Organising a destination wedding can be daunting, especially if you aren’t familiar with the area and will have more to consider such as flights and transport of your dress to name a few.

Here’s our list of essential things you can’t forget when planning a wedding abroad – PLUS some of our favourite destination wedding locations to provide you with some inspo…

How Much Does A Destination Wedding Cost?

The average cost of a destination wedding is estimated at around £7,500 according to travel experts Kuoni. If you compare this number to the typical cost for a wedding in Ireland, Northern Ireland or the UK which usually sits around the 20,000 mark, we can understand why destination weddings are growing in popularity.

Of course, the amount of guests attending will affect this figure. The average amount of guests for a destination wedding is around 10 to 15 people so whether you add to this or lower the amount of guests will be a contributing factor to the cost.

The location and time of year can also have an impact. For instance, to save money try avoiding touristy wedding hotspots such as Lake Como in Italy or Paris in France and opt for a smaller town in these countries which can have equally beautiful attraction for a fraction of the cost and less demand.

All inclusive resorts are also helpful with many offering affordable wedding packages in countries like Spain and Portugal. Additional costs you will need to budget for besides the ceremony and reception are legal feeds, translation costs, accommodation and wedding insurance.

How Do You Choose Your Wedding Destination?

In addition to budget, it’s important you choose a location that reflects both your personalities and style. Look out for some inspiration on blogs, TikTok, Instagram or Pinterest and check out real life weddings to see what themes and aesthetics resonate with you.

Then make a list of your main requirements such as outdoor ceremony options, countryside location and views etc. When you have decided on your budget, guest list and style, then you can start narrowing down countries that offer what you need. Also make sure to consider your guests’ budgets as well!

When choosing a venue, check off what meets your requirements. Find out details about accommodation such as if guest rooms are required to be booked for a certain number of nights, check if there are any curfew rules, if they have their own list of suppliers or if you can hire your own, if they have self-catering or a restaurant on-site, if there is a one wedding per day policy and any other essential questions.

Should I Book With A Wedding Travel Agents Company?

To reduce the stress of wedding planning, many couples will gain help from a wedding travel agents specialist such as Oasis Travel who organise destination weddings in locations such as Mauritius, Seychelles and Sri Lanka. With a wealth of experience, they can quite literally plan your wedding from start-to-finish. All you need to do is decide where it is you would like to go which they can help you with also!

They can help you organise your documentation, answer all your questions and have a dedicated coordinator to be there for you when you arrive. Depending on the package you book, you can find lots of recommended suppliers from your entertainment to flowers and décor.

Do I Need To Book A Destination Wedding Planner?

If you’re not going down the travel agency route, we recommend finding a wedding planner in the location you’ve decided on that has experience in destination weddings. You can look into other real life weddings abroad and check out who helped them and ask around for suggestions.

One recommendation we have is Weddings by Ann Leneghan, Lanzarote who is originally from Co. Laois in Ireland and is an experienced wedding planner who has been helping couples create their dream day in Lanzarote since 1989.

Hiring a wedding planner can help with everything from finding the perfect venue to finalising the legalities and will be there on the day itself for extra support and to ensure all runs smoothly. Throughout the entire process they are available to assist you whether it be over Zoom, Facetime or in person visits.

Of course, there is the option to organise your wedding yourself. However, it is extremely helpful to have a contact in your chosen country that speaks the language and can liaise with suppliers.

How Do I Transport My Wedding Dress?

If possible, we suggest taking your dress over by hand luggage – yes you read that right! You can even get hand luggage-sized boxes which can be perfect for this. Some airlines will allow you to hang up the dress if you’re using a folding dress cover.

The reason for this is that you don’t have to let the wedding dress out of your sight. Even if you go first class postage, there is always a risk of the parcel getting lost in the mail. The same goes for the groom’s suit.

Discuss this topic with your dress supplier as they can give you packing tips based on the fabric, weight and other factors. Also make sure your dress actually fits with the climate – for e.g. if it is a beach wedding, you’re going to want a light-weight and comfortable material.

What Legal Documents Do You Need To Marry Abroad?

This can vary depending on the country, but every wedding destination will require the following document for the bride and groom in the original form or a certified copy – so be careful this is a not a photocopy.

• 10-year old passport with a minimum of six months expiry date
• Full birth certificates
• Adoption certificates if this applies
• Decree absolute, if married
• Marriage and death certificates of deceased spouse if applies

Also, keep in mind that if the country you are going to does not speak English then these may need translated and given an apostille (an additional certification of authenticity).

Looking for the perfect destination wedding location? Check out all our suppliers HERE!

The post How To Plan A Wedding Abroad: The Complete Guide appeared first on Wedding Journal.

If you’re still on the lookout for your dream wedding venue, you’re going to want to view the stunning Rosspark Hotel in Ballymena. From their glamourous Wedding Pavilion to their lavish garden lounge and stylish suites, there is so much to offer. Make sure you get down and see the venue dressed to impress on Sunday 9th October from 1pm to 4pm – no appointment necessary!

Discover The Purpose Built Wedding Pavilion

The Wedding Pavilion is an approved venue for hosting civil ceremonies, allowing civil marriage ceremonies up to 120 guests to take place in a stand-alone venue at the hotel.

View The Lavish Garden Lounge

The Garden Lounge is the amazing result of recent renovation work that took place during lockdown to provide a welcoming place for wedding guests after their wedding ceremony, either in the Rosspark Hotel’s own wedding pavilion or from your church ceremony. The Garden Lounge commands leafy views of the outside gardens and, thanks to its huge new windows, is flooded with natural light, giving it a open and spacious feeling. It is full of relaxing seats and sofas, ideal for sitting having your glass of wine or G&T while you wait to be announced into the impressive Ross Suite for the wedding meal.

Experience The Stunning Ross Suite

The exquisitely refurbished Ross Suite, which can cater for up to 220 guests. Able to accommodate both large and small wedding receptions, Rosspark is proud to offer a range of function suites to suit your special day.

Discover The Beautiful Gardens With Wedding Gazebos

The scenic, landscaped gardens of the hotel are an ideal location for your special wedding day photographs.

Indulge In The Sumptuous Honeymoon Suite

The hotel boasts 39 bedrooms, which are comfortable, central to the main hotel and all en-suite. In addition, the hotel also has two executive suites for that special stay, as well as the beautiful honeymoon suite, recently renovated, which has been described by previous guests as ‘completely breathtaking’.

Meet The Expert Wedding Team

Eager to make your wedding day a once in a lifetime experience with special memories, the staff at Rosspark are truly dedicated. The wedding team will take any hassle out of your arrangements and ensure that you have a wonderful, stress free wedding right from your initial enquiry through to setting off as Mr and Mrs in your new life together.

So… make sure you save the date and don’t miss this chance to get a glimpse of your dream wedding day at Rosspark Hotel! Discover their hand selected team of recommended suppliers, the magic of this luxurious location and much more.

NO APPOINTMENT NECESSARY!

The post You’re Invited To Rosspark Hotel’s Autumn Wedding Fair appeared first on Wedding Journal.

Emma and Jack were high school sweethearts who’s love was written in the stars! They tied the knot at Orange Tree House this July surrounded by family and friends. After postponing the wedding due to Emma’s pharmacy studies and the pandemic, even a devastating skiing injury she suffered didn’t stop them from finally saying “I DO!”

With amazing family and friends on hand to make the day extra special, Emma and Jack’s wedding went off without a hitch – or may one on the dance floor!

HOW THEY MET

Emma and Jack met whilst in high school and began a text-crazed teenage romance in 2010 during their third year of school. But it wasn’t until a Halloween party during their fourth year, that Jack asked her to be his girlfriend. Emma being from Portadown and Jack from Donaghmore, Newry made it a challenge for the teens to meet frequently. They would jump on the bus on weekends to hang out at the local park and go to the cinema.

“We really grew up together. We leaned on each other through all our GCSEs, A-levels and Uni and had so much fun spending time on his family’s farm”, says Emma.

THE PROPOSAL

After asking Emma’s parents and grandfather for permission to marry her in 2019, Jack set the wheels in motion to propose. He was given Emma’s grandmother’s ring, “the one that I adored and based all aspirations for my future engagement ring on”, says Emma. They went down to the local pub with friends one evening and Emma spotted an engagement box in Jack’s pocket.

“When we got home I was literally too excited to sleep and in lots of childish laughter I essentially told him if he didn’t propose right now I’d explode.” So in the wee hours of the morning and in their pyjamas, Jack got down on one knee and popped the question!

PLANNING THE BIG DAY

Like many couples who got engaged in the last couple years, the pandemic created many challenges – and Emma and Jack were no exception! The couple began wedding planning in early 2020, falling in love with and securing Orange Tree House almost immediately. However, with Emma still studying pharmacy and the world at a standstill, the couple opted to postpone the wedding until 2022.

“With all the extra time planning was pretty chill and just plodded along in the background”, says Emma.

In January 2022 the couple took a family ski trip to Bulgaria for Jack’s dad’s 60th birthday. Emma had a devastating accident on the slopes, landing her in a wheelchair. “I then spent the craziest part of [wedding planning] out of work, getting a massive amount of surgery done on my knee and relearning how to walk”, she says. Some how the couple of 10 years pulled it together and completed the wedding planning!

THE VENUE

“When we visited Orange Tree House we just knew it was the one straight away. The architecture and beauty of the main hall which used to be a church and the view of Strangford Lough out of the lounge windows” says Emma. The couple had both their ceremony and reception on site which was a charming affair.

RELATED TO: 13 Romantic Ceremony Rooms To Say ‘I Do’ In

“We had a humanist wedding ceremony because we wanted our wedding to be so personal and to fully capture what finally getting married after a whole decade feels like”, say Jack.

CAPTURING THE BIG DAY

The couple chose Sheena Thompson Photography to capture their special day. Though camera shy, they were able to relax and get into the spirit of celebration to create memories for them to look back on.

“She was so relaxed and easy to work with and managed to get so many beautiful photos and captured the joy of the day so well. Neither of us like getting our photo taken – there is a pitiful amount of evidence of all the time we’ve been together! But Sheena made us so comfortable in front of the camera and by the end of it I was wondering if Jack was going to go for a career change into modelling”, says Emma.

WEDDING WARDROBE

Emma chose a beautiful gown, Zaine by Evie Young from Jill Jones Bridal, Templepatrick. “My dress is one of my favorite things I own and I got it so early on”, she says.

RELATED TO: Freddie Hatchet’s New Mobile Tailoring System Allows Grooms To Create Their Dream Suit From Home

Jack’s suit was from Freddie Hatchet and his bride-to-be gave him free reign on choosing it. “It’s a great atmosphere up there and they has some of the best Guinness I’ve tasted anywhere! The guys there are very helpful and knowledgeable”, says Jacks.

WEDDING ADVICE

When it comes to advice for other soon-to-wed couples, Emma and Jack say you should execute the day your way! “It’s so easy to keep spending and keep adding more to it because someone else has done something but we kept things simple and focused on our family and closest friends”, says Emma.

Despite pharmaceutical studies, a pandemic and a postponement, the couple were able to have a special day because they chose what worked for them. Though Emma had to take a quick ice pack break from the dance floor due to her skiing injury, she was able to enjoy the day – and she adds “if you’re contemplating going skiing within 5 months of your wedding!”

Be inspired by more real-life weddings HERE!

The post High School Sweethearts: Emma & Jack’s Rustic Affair at the Orange Tree House appeared first on Wedding Journal.

Need some ‘wedding songs’ inspo to show your entertainment, band or DJ? Or maybe you’re making your own wedding playlist? We’re revealing the biggest and most popular tunes you can’t forget to add – from the classics hits to cheesy pop and modern music. Perfect for the ceremony, reception or even getting ready with the girls or guys!

Luxury engagement ring retailer, Diamonds Factory, has scraped Spotify to find the top 100 most featured songs across all playlists – and we reveal it all in the edit below!

TOP 100 WEDDING SONGS

Whether you want to sing your heart out to the classics, feel the love with your new spouse or dance the night away with your friends and family, these top 100 songs have it all covered:

Marry You – Bruno Mars

Love On Top – Beyoncé

Signed, Sealed, Delivered (I’m Yours) – Stevie Wonder

Thinking out Loud – Ed Sheeran

I Wanna Dance with Somebody (Who Loves Me) – Whitney Houston

All of Me – John Legend

Everything – Michael Bublé

You Make My Dreams (Come True) – Daryl Hall & John Oates

Perfect – Ed Sheeran

Just the Way You Are – Bruno Mars

Crazy In Love (feat. Jay-Z) – Beyoncé, JAY-Z

We Found Love – Rihanna, Calvin Harris

I Gotta Feeling – Black Eyed Peas

My Girl – The Temptations

A Thousand Years – Christina Perri

CAN’T STOP THE FEELING! – Justin Timberlake

Better Together – Jack Johnson

Marry Me – Train

Hey Ya! – Outkast

This Will Be (An Everlasting Love) – Natalie Cole

You Are The Best Thing – Ray LaMontagne

Girls Just Want to Have Fun – Cyndi Lauper

Wannabe – Spice Girls

Uptown Funk (feat. Bruno Mars) – Mark Ronson, Bruno Mars

Best Day Of My Life – American Authors

Shut Up and Dance – WALK THE MOON

Sugar – Maroon 5

Ain’t No Mountain High Enough – Marvin Gaye, Tammi Terrell

Say You Won’t Let Go – James Arthur

Forever – Chris Brown

Happy – Pharrell Williams

I’m Yours – Jason Mraz

Single Ladies (Put a Ring on It) – Beyoncé

Make You Feel My Love – Adele

We Are Family – 1995 Remaster – Sister Sledge

September – Earth, Wind & Fire

At Last – Etta James

Speechless – Dan + Shay

Don’t Stop Believin’ – Journey

Chapel Of Love – The Dixie Cups

XO – John Mayer

Dancing in the Moonlight – Toploader

I Do – Colbie Caillat

Lover – Taylor Swift

24K Magic – Bruno Mars

Dancing Queen – ABBA

Sweet Caroline – Neil Diamond

How Long Will I Love You – Ellie Goulding

Lucky – Jason Mraz, Colbie Caillat

(I’ve Had) The Time of My Life – Bill Medley, Jennifer Warnes

Man! I Feel Like A Woman! – Shania Twain

Kiss Me – Sixpence None The Richer

10,000 Hours (with Justin Bieber) – Dan + Shay, Justin Bieber

The Luckiest – Ben Folds

I’m Coming Out – Diana Ross

I Want You Back – The Jackson 5

Little Things – One Direction

How Sweet It Is (To Be Loved By You) – 2019 Remaster James Taylor

Party In The U.S.A. – Miley Cyrus

(Your Love Keeps Lifting Me) Higher & Higher – Jackie Wilson

Mambo No. 5 (a Little Bit of…) – Lou Bega

Can’t Help Falling in Love – Haley Reinhart

I Won’t Give Up – Jason Mraz

Tenerife Sea – Ed Sheeran

Ain’t No Other Man – Christina Aguilera

L-O-V-E – Nat King Cole

No Diggity – Blackstreet, Dr. Dre, Queen Pen

Shape of You – Ed Sheeran

Timber (feat. Ke$ha) – Pitbull, Kesha

Ho Hey – The Lumineers

Love Shack – The B-52’s

Perfect Duet (Ed Sheeran & Beyoncé) – Ed Sheeran, Beyoncé

Build Me Up Buttercup – The Foundations

Mr. Brightside – The Killers

I Get to Love You – Ruelle

Stand by Me – Ben E. King

Can’t Help Falling in Love – Elvis Presley

Crazy Little Thing Called Love – Queen

Footloose – Kenny Loggins

Jump Around – House Of Pain

Billie Jean – Michael Jackson

Livin’ On A Prayer – Bon Jovi

What Makes You Beautiful – One Direction

Let’s Get Married (feat. Run) – Jagged Edge, Run, Lamarquis Jefferson

Walking On Sunshine – Katrina & The Waves

Raise Your Glass – P!nk

Don’t Stop ‘Til You Get Enough – Michael Jackson

Valerie (feat. Amy Winehouse) – Mark Ronson, Amy Winehouse

This Will Be (An Everlasting Love) – Natalie Cole

Treasure – Bruno Mars

Here Comes The Sun – The Beatles

For Once In My Life – Stevie Wonder

Shallow – Lady Gaga, Bradley Cooper

No Scrubs – TLC

I Choose You – Sara Bareilles

A Sky Full of Stars – Coldplay

Play That Funky Music – Wild Cherry

Yeah! (feat. Lil Jon & Ludacris) – Usher, Lil Jon, Ludacris

Cupid Shuffle – Cupid

If you’re looking for amazing music & entertainment suppliers, click HERE!

The post 100 Most Popular Wedding Songs To Personalise Your Playlist appeared first on Wedding Journal.

Like so many couples, Andy and Evie had to postpone their big day due to the pandemic. A year ago they tied the knot in an intimate ceremony with just friends and family, and recently the couple got to fulfill their dreams of a lavish big day.

Their chic affair at Belfast’s Culloden Estate & Spa boasted two dresses and simply elegant floral décor. Keep reading to find out how they planned their special day, despite facing setbacks along the way.

HOW THEY MET

Andy and Evie met back in 2014 at youth summer camp and began dating two years later after reconnecting. For the first two years, Andy was studying at Queen’s University Belfast and the couple lived close by. However, when Andy graduated he decided to move just outside of London for work, and the couple embarked on a 2 year long distance relationship. The saying ‘distance makes the heart grow fonder’ was definitely the case for them, as after only 1 year of Andy being away they got engaged!

THE PROPOSAL

Easter weekend of 2019, Andy came home for a visit, and he organised a ‘date-day’ to spend time with Evie. They headed down to Enniskillen and as the couple sailed to the middle of the lough enjoying the sunshine, Andy suddenly got down on one knee and proposed. Of course Evie said ‘YES!’ and Andy rushed to get the ring on her finger as he was terrified of dropping it overboard!

The couple still look back on that special weekend with the fondest of memories – everyone was thrilled for them!

PLANNING TWO WEDDINGS

Evie had the task of planning, not one, but two weddings due to the pandemic – it was an unexpected surprise! The couple had postponed their big wedding day and opted to go for a smaller ceremony on their original wedding date. They celebrated the union with close family at Lady Jane Tower followed by a meal at Robinson Suite – with the backdrop of Belfast Lough twinkling in the sunshine. Andy called in a favour from a friend and the beautiful day was captured by Tiffany Gage Photography.

Fast-forward one year and the big day finally rolled around for the couple. “This year, we had a special blessing ceremony at Knock Presbyterian Church Belfast, where we were able to celebrate the marriage commitment Andy and I had made one year previous.”  Evie says. After the pandemic had separated people for so long, the couple enjoyed being able to bring everyone back together for a celebration.

THE VENUE

Culloden Estate and Spa holds a special place in Evie’s heart, “this beautiful hotel has always been extra special to my family and I, as 30 years previous my parents had their wedding reception in the Stuart Suite.”

This venue was top on the couples lists and they were delighted to secure it! Along with the Events Team, Andy and Evie appreciated the staff for making their day extra festive.

CAPTURING THE DAY

RELATED TO: The Best Wedding Venues in County Down

The photos truly captured the elegance and joy of the wedding day and the glowing bride. “My dream wedding photographer, Jayne Lindsay Photography, captured our big day so perfectly with such attention to detail.”

Any bride looking to capture the essence of their special day should always look for a photographer whose previous work inspires them!

WEDDING WARDROBE

Evie looked flawless, choosing a Suzanne Neville gown for the big day “I finally got to wear my stunning Suzanne Neville wedding dress!”  

RELATED TO: 11 Floral Embroidered Wedding Dresses To Make A Statement

She opted for some classic pearl earring to compliment the beauty of the dress.

BRIDAL ADVICE

The couple’s advice to anyone planning their big day “don’t stress over the little things!”

“Enjoy every moment. From planning two weddings in the middle of a global pandemic we know just how crazy wedding planning can be! From the engagement and picking a venue, to finding the dream dress and menu tastings, it is such an exciting time so don’t stress over the little things, you will get your big day in the end!”

Be inspired by more real-life weddings HERE!

The post Twice the charm: Evie and Andy’s Stylish Wedding at Culloden Estate appeared first on Wedding Journal.

If you’re currently on the lookout for amazing wedding venues in County Dublin, then you’re in the right place! With a chic and stylish aesthetic, you’re going to love this list of the best ceremony spots in Dublin.

Whether you want something cosy and rustic or glamourous and extravagant, there will be something for every taste, style and budget! From charming country houses to lavish hotels and industrial warehouses, these wedding venues really bring the wow-factor.

Keep on scrolling to get inspired…

Urban Brewing

This grade one listed building in Dublin dates back to 1820 and is giving us old world glamour vibes. The renovated warehouse that was used to store tobacco, tea and spirits holds a sense of history and a striking aesthetic that will undoubtedly add a memorable element to your day.

Whether you are hosting an intimate setting or a large celebration, their vaults are modular and flexible for celebrations of all shapes and sizes. There are also plenty of amazing and unique backdrops for your wedding photographs.

Roganstown

Roganstown Hotel is a beautifully restored country house nestled in the Dublin countryside. The manicured lawns and Japanese gardens are surrounded by an 18-hole golf course that sprawls over 300 acres of grounds for endless photo opportunities.

RELATED TO: 7 Romantic Wedding Venues In County Westmeath

A highlight of the day is often a romantic escape to the lake for a glass of bubbly before your reception begins. The indoor ceremony locations can also be decorated to your taste.

Clontarf Castle Hotel

Live out your fairytale wedding at Clontarf Castle which oozes character, charm and personality. This hotel on the northern coastline of Dublin holds over 800 years of history with generations of weddings played out between the castle walls.

With a breathtaking castle aesthetic, dedicated art galleries, original 12th century architecture, landscaped gardens and a romantic outdoor terrace, Clontarf Castle is a statement venue you and your guests won’t forget!

Thomas Prior

Thomas Prior Hall has been beautifully restored as a wedding venue on the grounds of the four-star hotel Clayton Hotel Ballsbridge. Steeped in history, this unique venue was originally built as a Masonic Girls School in the 18th century.

The magical church-like venue has a separate porch entrance, ornate oak paneled walls, stained glass windows, a choir balcony, spectacular chandeliers, in-built up lighters, an impressive vaulted wooden ceiling and an outside seating area overlooking the manicured gardens and water fountain. It truly has it all!

Nola Clan

Nola Clan is home to an array of beautiful venues for all kinds of tastes and styles! From bright and airy garden spaces to dark and glamourous parlours, there is a location for every wedding theme. The different catering menus can accommodate every style of party, from canapés to sit down dinners and you can even request bespoke cocktails to personalise your day!

One of their venues is House Dublin which is a wonderful, hidden utopia with elegant interiors and a tranquil alfresco setting of the garden which will provide a fabulous backdrop for your wedding photographs. There are also 16 boutique bedrooms and a night club, both ideal for large or small weddings.

BANG Restaurant

BANG restaurant is the perfect venue for cosy and intimate wedding celebrations in Dublin City. Perfectly placed off St. Stephens Green, they can accommodate groups of 50 for sit down meals or standing canapé receptions in one of their elegant private dining or bar areas. BANG restaurant offers three unique stylish and intimate floors to choose from.

RELATED TO: The Best Wedding Venues In County Wicklow

Their range of set menus and canapés give you a range of options to choose from, so your guests can experience classic BANG dishes which can be paired with wines and specialty cocktails to complete your private dining experience.

Louis Fitzgerald Hotel

For elegance and class, the Louis Fitzgerald will make the perfect wedding venue for a timeless wedding day. The ceremony and receptions rooms are beautifully decorated with chair covers and sashes, floral arrangements and a traditional red carpet at the entrance to the room – creating a warm and elegant ambience as you celebrate your new chapter.

Whether it’s a large celebration or a cosy gather of your closest family and friends, the Louis Fitzgerald can take care of every detail as they cater for weddings of 30 to 300 guests.

Portmarknock Hotel

With its multiplicity of hopelessly romantic venues indoor and out, Portmarnock Hotel is quite simply made for weddings. Situated on The Velvet Strand you will have magnificent sea views for your wedding photographs.

Combining modern elegance with the grandeur of a 19th century home, Portmarnock Hotel provides the perfect place to say, ‘I do’. With 131 bedroom suites, three dining areas, a championship golf course, a luxury spa and various indoor and outdoor event spaces, this can even make the perfect wedding weekend stay!

Radisson Blu St Helens Hotel

The Radisson Blu St. Helen’s Hotel in Dublin is set in luxurious surroundings and expansive grounds. The stately mansion offers effortless elegance with a warm welcome to start your new life together.

With gorgeous garden grounds and elegant suites, you can host the wedding of your dreams and take advantage of the scenic setting. This Dublin hotel is also one of the city’s finest venues for barbecue events – perfect for a next day farewell lunch!

The post 9 Ultra-Chic Wedding Venues in County Dublin appeared first on Wedding Journal.

It’s not only about the dress when it comes to your wedding you know! There are so many creative and modern ways to elevate and personalise your look and bridal accessories will help you do just that.

You can also meet some of these amazing suppliers at The Wedding Journal Show and see their latest designs and accessories – BUY TICKETS HERE!

RELATED TO: 9 Rule-Breaking Bridal Trends We Love

This can be perfect for on the wedding day itself, your honeymoon and your hen party with the girls and will get you excited for becoming a wifey! Keep on scrolling to get inspired…

WEDDING DAY

Rosalind Strappy Bridal Sandal by Sophia Webster

Glide down the aisle in more than just style wearing your solemate – and make it a Wifey for Lifey shoe at that! This bridal collection by Sophia Webster includes an elegant curation of stunning heels and flats for your wedding day. The Rosalind heel is a classic bridal style that we love.

RELATED TO: 9 Statement Wedding Shoes To Elevate Your Look

Personalised Mrs Hair Slide by Six Stories

Show off your new title as a Mrs with this iconic and sparkling accessory by Six Stories. This personalised slide makes for a gorgeous, fun and lasting piece to your newly married wardrobe. It will even make an adorable keepsake to look back on!

RELATED TO: 11 Bridal Accessories To Take Your Wedding Wardrobe To The Next Level

Customised Embellished Denim Jacket by Chosen by Kyha

Customise your wedding look with a personalised denim jacket – perfect for your wedding reception or after party. Spell it out and give your jacket an edge with a custom star embellishment. Imagine how cool this will look in your wedding photographs!

Cleo Wifey for Lifey Clutch Bag by Sophia Webster

Modernise your wedding day look with an adorable bag like this example from Sophia Webster. This clutch features subtle ivory-marble and gold detailing, matching nicely with their bridal shoe collection. It also comes with a detachable cross-body chain.

Pearl Denim Jacket In Black by Blossom Bridal

If you want to go bold, then a black bridal jacket is right up your street! This design by Blossom Bridal is the perfect way to show off your new name and adds that extra edge to your wedding look.

You can also meet owners of Blossom Bridal Lisa and Emma at The Wedding Journal Show in Dublin who will be showcasing all their latest designs and styles!

HEN PARTY

Lace Trim Satin Bridal Robes by WeddingCreations.ie

If you’re heading away for a hen party or having a big hen sleepover, these bridal party robes are essential – for your wedding day too! Imagine you and your girls getting ready in these together, how cute!

RELATED TO: 21 Hilarious Hen Party Games You & Your Girls Will Love

Bridal Party T-Shirts by Bonnie Designs NI

Of course you can’t go on a hen party without some fun personalised t-shirts to mark the occasion! Step out in these adorable styles by Bonnie Designs which you can keep as a fond reminder of your hen party.

You can also meet the owner of Bonnie Designs Caragh at The Wedding Journal Show in Belfast who will be showcasing all her latest designs and styles!

Personalised Veil by HenWorld.ie

Show this to your maids or maid of honour so you can be recognised as the main character at your hen party. Match with a mini white dress and you’re ready to hit the town!

Floral Hen Party Team Bride Sashes by PartyDelights.ie

Don’t forget your bridal party sachets – no hen party look is complete without them! We are loving these fun and feminine designs in rose gold.

HONEYMOON

Wifey Statement Towel Shirt & Shorts by Six Stories

A no brainer to add to your honeymoon packing list, this wifey shirt in a plush towel fabric is the perfect coverup after a refreshing dip in the pool. Pair with matching shorts to make a chic subtle statement of your newly married status all holiday long. 

Bride One Piece by Revolve

Keep the bridal theme going into your honeymoon with this chic swimsuit – sweet, subtle and stylish!

Personalised Bridal PJs by WeddingRobes.ie

This latest personalised pyjama set is perfect for your honeymoon and will have you feeling comfortable and confident when you tuck in for the night! They come personalised with your name, role and initial on the front and also make a great gift for anyone in the bridal party.

RELATED TO: 8 Super Sexy Lingerie Sets For An Unforgettable Honeymoon

The post 12 Modern Bridal Accessories To Take Your Look From Miss To Mrs appeared first on Wedding Journal.

Whether you’re confident in front of the lens or a little camera shy, you could always use some inspiration to know what kind of photographs you want from your big day. After the bride and groom, the bridal party are the main stars of the show so it’s only right you get some killer pictures to capture your squad!

Luckily for you we’ve gathered lot of striking photo ideas from classic shots to candid moments and creative ideas. Keep on scrolling to get inspired…

The Big Kiss

Sweet and not too posed, capture the moment you and your bride or groom seal it with kiss on the alter – bonus points if your guests and bridal party are cheering in the background!

See more of Jane and Andrew’s day at Magheramorne Estate!

Confetti Throw

Photo by Tait Young – Wedding Photo & Film

A trend we’re seeing couples take part in more and more is the confetti through when leaving the venue and we love it!

Birds-Eye View

A creative style that captures your day from the outside looking in. It really sets the scene and can show off your venue whether it be an outdoor garden wedding, beach wedding or anything in between.

See more of David and Stephanie’s day at Castle Leslie!

The Cheers

When the ceremony is over and you’re about to get the party started, your photographer can capture you and your crew toasting some bubbly or taking some shots – before things start to get a little hazy!

The First Look

We love this modern wedding trend that can capture the moment you finally see your bride in her wedding dress just the two of you ahead of the alter! If you’re doing a first look, you won’t regret getting this shot to always remember that special feeling.

See more of Róisín and Michael’s day at Tinakilly Country House!

A Moment Together

Make sure you get a few special moments alone and bring your photographer along who can hopefully capture the bride and groom reflecting with each other as the day unfolds.

The Wedding Party Walk In

Have the bride and groom take centre stage and walk a few paces ahead of the bridal party for a powerful shot! This brings lot of movement to the photo and works well if the bridal party interact with each other to give it a more natural look.

See more of Brittany and Sean’s day at Markree Castle!

The Symmetrical Shot

Show off colour palette and synchronicity of your day with a symmetrical shot which has all the bridesmaids on one side and the groomsmen on the other. Normally this happens at the alter naturally!

Bridal Party Prep

Pop some bubbly, get your matching bridal party robes on with your maids and just have fun getting ready while your photographer snaps those precious moments!

The Look Back

Stunning and dramatic, this shot works amazing with eye contact straight into the camera. You can both look back or just one of you.

Alternating Bridesmaids & Grooms

Although symmetry is aesthetically pleasing, don’t be afraid to mix it up by alternating your bridesmaids and groomsmen for a more relaxed shot – the different colours can look great intertwined.

The Classic

Keep things classical with a formal shot of your full wedding party – bridesmaids, groomsmen, flower girls, page boys and the parents!

The Album Cover

Loosen up and get some silly shots which show you and your bridal partys’ personalities! Show your fun side whether it be a fun pose lifting the bride, jumping in the air or anything that can make you chuckle later.

Squad Goals

The silly theme doesn’t end here! It’s time for a squad goal photo, this can be planned or just go random on the day with a certain pose you all find funny.

Adoring Bridesmaids

Get your bridesmaid gushing over the bride and looking at her with heartwarming expressions – the bride can react naturally and you will capture plenty of real smiles.

Snack Time

If you’re having some fun snacks and treats like fast food or a cute cupcakes, make sure you get some shots of you and your bridal party sharing a sweet treat!

Candid Moments

Alongside all the posed photographs, your photographer is sure to be on the look out for some real candid moments that unfold on the day. This is one of our bride and grooms who fell off a swing and the photographer captured the whole thing – if something like happens, laugh it off and let the photographer do their thing as it can make hilariously adorable photographs.

See more of Jean and Aisling’s day at Tankardstown House!

Post-Vows Bliss

Photograph by by Sun and Beau

Sharon & Gary’s day At The Loft

After the couple tie the knot and make their way back down the aisle, get ready for that post-vows bliss shot that will show you both smiling from ear-to-ear! It’s always nice to see your happy guests looking super touched in the background.

The Grand Exit

Hannah and John’s day at The Merrion Hotel

As you leave the ceremony venue, don’t hold back your excitement – you’ve just sealed the deal! Put your hands in the air, smile at each other and have a little cheer of joy. This will be super cute caught on camera.

On The Alter

As your exchanging your vows make sure you capture this heartfelt moment and even a close up of your facial expression so you can really feel all those emotions when you look back at the photo!

Still looking for your dream wedding photographer or videographer? Check out all our local suppliers HERE!

The post 20 Adorable Photographs To Take With Bridal Party appeared first on Wedding Journal.

The last few days before your wedding are bound to get a little crazy and overwhelming as you countdown the minutes until you say ‘I do’. You’re sure to be running last minute errands, collecting things, delivering items and hopefully trying to wind down and get your head in the right place to be excited for the big day!

RELATED TO: 19 Things To Do The Night Before Your Wedding

With so much on your mind, it’s only natural you might forget little things along the way, which is why we’re here to help with this handy bridal checklist of all the must-have essentials you can’t forget to pack the night before. We have options for if you’re getting ready at home or at the venue so take what applies to your situation!

WHAT TO INCLUDE IN YOUR WEDDING OVERNIGHT BAG

The overnight essentials:

• Toiletry products; toothbrush, toothpaste, deodorant, shampoo, conditioner, body wash, extra hair products, razor, body lotion and any skin care products

• Hairbrush, hair accessories such as clips, bobby pins, hair ties etc.
• Wedding night lingerie
• Makeup products, brushes and makeup remover
• Change of underwear and socks
• Second-day outfit, shoes and accessories
• Comfy PJs and slippers/socks
• Wedding robe (or any cosy one!)
• Hair care products – we recommend a hydrating hair mask if you have a lot of hairspray and back combing to get through!
• Bubble bath if your bridal suite has a tub!
• Sanitary products; tampons and pads
• Perfume
• Nail care
• Mini speaker (to get the vibes going!)
• Painkillers
• Any needed medication or birth control
• Purse
• House and car keys
• Phone charger
• Flat shoes
• A bottle of bubbly

RELATED TO: What Can I Ask My Bridesmaids To Do?

If you’re getting ready from the venue or hotel:

Add these to the list above if they apply!

• Bridal prep robe or a button up that you can wear when getting your hair and makeup done – not something that you have to pull over your head. (Make sure this is something you’re happy to be photographed in like matching robes for you and your maids!).
• Wedding morning snacks and water if the venue is not supplying
• Wedding dress and hanger
• Wedding shoes
• Wedding day lingerie
• Wedding day accessories
• Any sentimental items for the day
• Sunglasses
• Wedding lipstick, gloss and lipliner
• Face powder for blotting
• Sunglasses
• Headphones for zoning out
• Bridal diary if you want to make any notes the morning of or want to write a note to your bride or groom-to-be!
• Wedding day emergency kit; safety pins, tissues, wipes etc. Let one of your bridesmaids have this on hand!
• Any cash you need for suppliers on the day (add to hotel safe when you arrive!)
• Suppliers list with contact details and timeline for the day
• ID and any needed paperwork for the legal ceremony
• Wedding rings
• Wedding party gifts

RELATED TO: Everything You Need For A Wedding Day Emergency Kit

TOP TIPS:

RELATED TO: 15 Tasks No Bride Can Forget On The Week Of Their Wedding

• Don’t do all the packing for both of you! Remember your trying to relax the few days before your wedding so you don’t need any extra stress. Make sure your fiancé does their own packing, but you can always run through this list together after which might remind them of what they’re missing
• Even if you are only heading away for a couple of nights, there will still be a lot of items so don’t try and cram it all into a small bag or case. We recommend a large suitcase to see all your items
• If you want to be extra organised you can order packing pouches online to keep everything together – this way you’ll be able to find things much easier with less rummaging
• Coverups or shawls for your bridesmaids and flower girl – get any accessories like this to them a few days or weeks before your wedding so you don’t forget
• If you’re getting ready at home and going straight to the venue, ask someone you can trust to bring your overnight bag to the hotel ahead of time and get delivered to your room and hang any important items up like your second-day outfit

Happy packing, we hope this helped!

The post Bridal Checklist: What To Include In Your Wedding Overnight Bag appeared first on Wedding Journal.

Your engagement ring will be one of your most prized possessions, so here are five things to remember when it comes to how to care for your engagement ring the right way!

RELATED TO: Get The Look: Celebrity Engagement Rings

Whether just engaged or further down the line, your ring will still be one of your most prized possessions and as such it should be cared for accordingly. Here we offer some simple ways to ensure your ring looks as good as it did the day he asked you to marry him.

1. Get insurance

From the moment your engagement ring is purchased it makes sense to get it insured. Once added to your home insurance or if you take a separate insurance, it is important to have your ring revalued every few years as its value will increase and you want to make sure that if it was to get stolen or go missing that you were able to claim back the full value of the ring.

RELATED TO: Beautiful Birthstone Engagement Rings For Every Month

2. Keep it clean

To keep its sparkle you will need to keep your ring clean. Worn everyday your engagement ring will get dirty and dull, and while you may choose to clean it with warm water and a mild detergent, this is not recommended (it depends on the stones and metals of the ring). You are best to leave it with a jeweler and have it professionally cleaned. This doesn’t take long and some jewelers might be able to do it while you wait.

3. Regular check-ups

Yes, your engagement ring will need to see a professional every so often! In order to keep it in tip-top condition you will need regular check-ups with a jeweler to keep an eye on any loose settings etc. When you purchase your ring the jeweler may advise on how often these check-ups might need to take place.

RELATED TO: Most Popular Engagement Ring Styles For 2022

4. Take care

If using detergents or bleach it is best to wear rubber gloves or remove your ring when cleaning. However, do be careful, if you remove your rings for tasks like this and also for washing hands in the bathroom place it somewhere safe and remember to put it back on as soon as possible.

5. Safe storage

While you may be someone who never takes your ring off on a day to day basis, if you do need to remove it and store it overnight or for any length of time keep it in a jewellery box and place it in a location you know is safe and secure.

RELATED TO: How To Match Your Wedding Band To Your Engagement Ring

Looking for that perfect diamond? Check out all our local jewellery suppliers HERE!

The post How To Care For Your Engagement Ring appeared first on Wedding Journal.

Stacey Solomon and Joe Swash celebrated their love with an unofficial wedding ceremony at their Pickle Cottage home on Sunday in Essex.

Stacey has been sharing their wedding planning journey online with fans with pictures of her wedding dress shopping and sneak peaks of their at home wedding décor.

RELATED TO: Stacey Solomon Says ‘YES’ To A Wedding Dress From Verona Bridal

After fans heard of their at home nuptials, Stacey revealed on her Instagram story that they were not yet legally married and would need to register their marriage separately as they do not have the correct license for a home wedding.

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A post shared by Stacey Solomon (@staceysolomon)

The two had their unofficial ceremony in front of Stacey’s sons Zachary, 14, and Leighton, 10, Joe’s son Harry, 15, and their two young children Rex, three, and Rose, nine months. It has also been said that the Loose Women stars where in attendance and Towie’s James Argent was the DJ.

The couple have been together since 2015 and planned to marry in July 2021, seven months after Joe proposed on Christmas Eve.

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A post shared by Stacey Solomon (@staceysolomon)

Although Stacey has not yet revealed images of her chosen wedding dress, she shared an image on Instagram of her wedding hair and we’re loving her elegant blonde locks!

Stacey also showed fans her home wedding décor which was inspired by her recent hen do in Greece. Stacey revealed she went to IKEA for chairs, tables, cutlery and plates which she now plans to donate to charity.

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A post shared by Stacey Solomon (@staceysolomon)

We’re so excited to see more details from Stacey and Joe’s wedding… especially the dress! Stay tuned for more updates to come.

The post Stacey Solomon Marries Joe Swash With A Secret At Home Wedding appeared first on Wedding Journal.

Congrats to Jennifer Lopez and Ben Affleck who tied the knot with a surprise wedding in Las Vegas on the 16th July – more than 20 years after they first got engaged in 2004! They celebrated with a low-key chapel ceremony, but of course J.Lo brought the wow-factor with two special wedding dresses.

We show you how to steal her style with some stunning dress replicas from some of the world’s hottest dress designers – some of which you can see on our Bridal Catwalks at the Wedding Journal Show!

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A post shared by THE WEDDING BLISS (@theweddingbliss)

Images have been released online of Lopez wearing two different dresses during the celebration. The first was a textured lace gown with a high neckline, fitted bodice and sweeping skirt.

Hairstylist Chris Appleton shared a video of her classic look – which the star described in her On the JLo newsletter as a dress from “an old movie” that she was holding for a special day.

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A post shared by TUTFEY (@tutfey)

The second dress was an elaborate design by Zuhair Murad featuring all-over lace, long sleeves and an off-the-shoulder neckline. How stunning!

RELATED TO: Get The Look: Celebrity Engagement Rings

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A post shared by Obsessive Fashion Disorder (@obsessive_fashion_disorder)

Get the Look

If you’re inspired by J.Lo’s romantic bridal style, keep on scrolling for some of our look alike replicas…

Elegant, effortless and stunningly simple! This high neckline crêpe gown is giving all the sophisticated bridal vibes – it even has pockets which is a major plus! The side slit adds that perfect touch of drama while the sweeping skirt flatters your shape and figure.

Tomorrows Bridal will also be showcasing their latest wedding dress collections at The Wedding Journal Show!

Otherworldly detail meets with ethereal grace with this figure-hugging style. Perfect for the bride who wants to feel supported, feminine and sexy on her dream day. Sequined lace appliques steal the show, swirling and twirling all over the fit-and-flare silhouette. The dress of fairytales!

RELATED TO: 14 Celebrity Wedding Ideas To Steal For Your Big Day

Style Camryn by Justin Alexander stocked at McElhinney’s of Ballybofey

Look timeless in this classic Mikado ball gown. The high neckline is complemented with a flattering inset cummerbund while the back gives a touch of glamour with silver embroidery and intricate beading. The style is finished with pockets and crystal buttons cascading down the cathedral length train.

Style 1087 Genevieve by Madeline Gardner stocked at Jill Jones & The Bridal Lounge

Dynamic design takes center stage on this romantic lace wedding dress. The flattering fit-and-flare silhouette features artfully placed embroidered lace appliques and geometric trim that creates elegant shapes and elongates the body. The strapless sweetheart bodice has an illusion plunging detail and stunning sheer petal train. Complete the look with detachable illusion gauntlet sleeves.

RELATED TO: 15 Of The Most Expensive Celebrity Wedding Cakes

Float like a feather down the aisle in this lightweight sheath-style wedding dress with a lace bodice and slit in skirt. The high halter neck adds sophistication while the closed back with lace and pearl buttons, and beadwork details at the waist complete this classic bridal look.

RELATED TO: 11 Most Iconic Celebrity Wedding Dresses Of All Time

This classic fit-and-flare number featuring an embellished structured bodice and sheer corset-style back was made for the modern princess bride! The intricate all-over sparkling lace add alluring dimension to its romance. The floral appliqués are carefully placed to cinch the waist, hug the hips and float on a shimmery lavish train. Add the detachable off-the-shoulder sheer sleeves to create a magical charm.

Enzoani & La Bella Sposa will be showcasing their latest wedding dress collections at The Wedding Journal Show so make sure you get to see their styles come to life!

Still looking for your dream wedding dress? Check out all our bridalwear suppliers HERE!

The post Get The Look: Jennifer Lopez’s Wedding Dresses appeared first on Wedding Journal.

Looking for a way to bond with your bridesmaids before the big day? It’s time for a movie night – wedding themed of course! So round up your girls, get the popcorn (and wine!) ready and settle in for a cosy night with these must-watch wedding wedding movies to watch with your bridesmaids!

In this edit, we’re giving you all the cheesy classics and rom-coms that are essential for a girly movie night with your bride tribe! You may have seen some before, but re-watching as a bride-to-be will get you excited for your big day, calm those wedding jitters and have you and your girls laughing all night long.

Keep on scrolling to plan your bridesmaid movie night in…

1. Bride Wars

Prepare to laugh out loud at Anne Hathaway and Kate Hudson who play bestfriends (Emma and Liv) in this hilarious movie where they get super competitive planning their dream wedding on the same date at the same venue. Get ready for some Bridezilla drama!

2. Bridesmaids

It wouldn’t be a wedding movie night without the iconic Bridesmaids film! No matter how many times you watch this movie, you’re guaranteed to howl with laughter – and with your bride tribe, what could be better?! Watch an unlikely group of bridesmaids bond before the wedding when two of the bride’s ‘best friends’ start competing for a place in her heart which results in lots of hilarious and drama-filled moments.

3. 27 Dresses

Always a bridesmaid, never a bride. For anyone who felt like the big day would never come, this one is for you! Katherine Heigl plays Jane who after serving as a bridesmaid 27 times, wrestles with the idea of standing by her sister’s side as her sibling marries the man she’s secretly in love with – which is also James Marsden as Kevin!

4. My Best Friend’s Wedding

Make sure you have some tissues handy for this one! Get ready to laugh and cry in this nostalgic classic starring Julie Roberts as Julianne, Dermot Mulroney as Michael and Cameron Diaz as Kimberly. Long story short, Julianne realises she’s in love with her best friend Michael who just got engaged and is conflicted between giving it a shot or letting him be happy with someone else – just days before the wedding!

5. Monster-In-Law

Even if you have the best mother-in-law in the world, this one is an hilarious must-watch! Charlotte, who is played by Jennifer Lopez, has a miserable dating life of disastrous blind dates until she meets her dream guy, Kevin. Unfortunately, Kevin’s mother is merciless in doing anything to break them up!

6. The Proposal

Sweet, romantic and funny, The Proposal stars Sandra Bullock (plays Margaret) and Ryan Reynolds (plays Andrew) who have agreed to marry in order to keep Margaret’s visa status in the U.S and avoid deportation to Canada – in the end the two have undeniable chemistry!

7. The Wedding Planner

Jennifer Lopez stars as Mary the wedding planner who accidentally falls in love with the groom starred by Matthew McConaughey when planning his wedding. Keep an eye on your man ladies! With these two actors, you already know it’s a great rom-com.

8. Wedding Crashers

In case there is still any lingering worry over whether you are going to miss all of the fun of being single, this is the movie for you! Vince Vaughan and Owen Wilson jump from wedding to wedding, selecting pretty young things for one night stands until they finally both realise that sometimes all you need is that one perfect person.

9. Runaway Bride

Richard Gere (Ike) and Julia Roberts (Maggie) attempt to bring their chemistry from Pretty Woman to this wedding film which sees Maggie gaining media recognition for jilting her grooms at the altar! Journalist Ike is sent to scoop the story and ends up falling for her charms!

10. Mamma Mia

Get the girls together and prepare to sing your heart out to Abba tunes as you watch Donna (Meryl Streep) prepare for her daughter’s wedding! The bride Sophie (Amanda Seyfried) secretly invites three men from her mother’s past in the hope of meeting her real father and having him escort her down the aisle on her big day. Watch all three Mamma Mia movies if you’re in the dancing mood!

11. Sex In The City

Okay the wedding didn’t go as planned in this one, but this is the ultimate tale of your girlfriends having your back! Sarah Jessica Parker stars as a New York City writer who is finally getting married to her Mr. Big, but her three best girlfriends must console her after the groom gets cold feet on the way to the alter.

12. My Big Fat Greek Wedding

A shockingly underrated flick! It is a romantic, cheerful love story but also the story of an unconfident, sheltered woman who had to discover her own identity before she met the man of her dreams. The perfect choice if you need a little inspiration before the big day.

13. The Wedding Singer

This movie has it all. It’s funny and relatable (because it’s always the taken ones that we seem to fall for) and it is painfully adorable. It also stars Adam Sandler and Barry Drewmore, so you know it’s going to be the perfect combination of romance and comedy!

14. Coming To America

An extremely pampered African prince played by Eddie Murphy travels to Queens, New York, and goes undercover to find a wife that he can respect for her intelligence and strong will. He works at a burger bar and ends up falling in love with the owner’s daughter who loves him for himself. Aww!

15. Father Of The Bride

Steve Martin plays George the father of the bride who alongside Martin Short starring as the eccentric wedding planner Franck work together to organise his daughter’s wedding at home which is filled with plenty of hilarious moments. A touching and funny film about a father reluctant to let his little girl go!

16. The Hangover

Three buddies wake up from a bachelor party in Las Vegas, with no memory of the previous night and the bachelor missing. They make their way around the city in order to find their friend before his wedding. An hilarious watch starring Bradley Cooper, Zach Galifianakis and Ed Helms.

The post 16 Best Wedding Movies To Watch With Your Bridesmaids appeared first on Wedding Journal.

If you’re looking for a luxurious spot to say ‘I do’ with lots of character and charm, these wedding venues in County Westmeath truly have it all!

Straddling the border of Ireland’s Ancient East and Ireland’s Hidden Heartlands, there are plenty of beautiful backdrops and scenic lakelands which makes this an ideal location to start your new chapter.

Keep on scrolling to find some of our favourite standout wedding venues in this amazing location…

Glasson Lakehouse

With stunning surroundings, panoramic views, delicious menu options and an incredible location, it’s no wonder Glasson Lakehouse is one of the top wedding venues in the midlands. Whether it’s a large and lavish affair or an intimate and cosy celebration with family and friends, Glasson Lakehouse can cater for both – their Books & Co. Spa and unique accommodation also make this the perfect escape for a wedding weekend!

Annebrook House Hotel

This award-winning wedding venue in the heart of Mullingar brings history, charm and stylish interiors. With a stunning backdrop of 10 acres of parkland where the Brosna River flows, you are sure to get your dream wedding photographs. The 17th Century heritage adds a sense of romance and you also get exclusive use of the Old House where you can enjoy a glass of fizz and savour a delectable assortment of canapes.

The Shamrock Lodge Hotel

Tucked away at the end of a tree lined avenue is The Shamrock Lodge Hotel. With beautiful interiors and manicured lawns, you’re sure to get your dream wedding photographs in this stunning setting. Whether it is a large celebration or an intimate wedding of your close family and friends, The Shamrock Lodge Hotel will create the day you’ve always imagined with a choice of indoor and outdoor ceremony spots to choose from.

New Forest Estate

New Forest Estate is a wonderful wedding venue offering the history and character of New Forest House -a 300-year-old Irish Manor house in a private Irish country estate. This is the perfect setting for intimate weddings which can be held in New Forest House itself or choose to have a wonderful Pavilion Wedding for larger celebrations. The Luxurious Courtyard Lodges also make for great accommodation for family, friends and guests.

Mount Druid

Situated in the picturesque village of Castletown Geoghegan, Mount Druid is an exquisite private wedding venue set in a parkland of 100 acres. The purpose built Tin Chapel, Boathouse, Barn and custom-made accommodation nestle into the landscape and offer the opportunity for a bespoke wedding to remember in one of Ireland’s most beautiful and quirky countryside wedding venue. 

Mullingar Park Hotel

Set amidst beautiful private landscaped gardens, the Mullingar Park Hotel is the perfect setting for either large and lavish weddings or more intimate affairs. With elegant and stylish surroundings, luxurious banqueting suites and contemporary accommodation, you and your guests are sure to have a day to remember. Their recent renovation of the ballroom brings a modern flare with high ceilings and vintage chandeliers with elegant details at every turn.

Radisson Blu Athlone

Situated in the heart of Athlone, the four-star Radisson Blu Hotel is one of the top wedding venues in Westmeath. The magnificent Marina Ballroom and arrival drinks spaces boast stunning views overlooking the River Shannon. Your guests will arrive to a wonderful reception where they can enjoy a glass of bubbly and savour a delectable assortment of canapes. Whether it’s an intimate wedding of 10 or a grand affair of 380 guests, your dream day will be brought to life – there are also 128 beautiful bedrooms and suites where your nearest and dearest can stay the night.

Still searching for your dream wedding venue? Check out all our wedding venue suppliers HERE!

The post 7 Romantic Wedding Venues In County Westmeath appeared first on Wedding Journal.

Congratulations may be in order as rumour has Taylor Swift and Joe Alwyn are secretly engaged – and have been for months!

The pair have been together for five years and The Sun reported that Taylor even wears a secret engagement ring “behind closed doors” that only her close family and friends know about.

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A post shared by Joe Alwyn (@joealwyntaylorswift)

A source close to Joe reportedly told the publication that “Taylor and Joe are incredibly happy, and very, very in love.

“They’ve actually been engaged for a few months but have only told their inner-inner circle – basically their immediate family, and trusted, very old friends. Everyone has been sworn to secrecy, too.

“Taylor has a beautiful ring but she only wears it when she’s at home – i.e. behind closed doors. Again, only a handful of people know details about the wedding and Taylor hasn’t even told some of her team about the engagement.

“They want their love to stay away from the cameras as much as possible. This is just for them. And if and when they do exchange vows, there most definitely won’t be any Vogue, Rolling Stone or Hello! magazines there. It will be simple and elegant – like them.”

Taylor and Joe have been together romantically since 2016 but have kept things relatively lowkey and private from the public.

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A post shared by Joe Alwyn (@joealwyntaylorswift)

During an interview with Rolling Stone in 2020, Taylor Swift commented on their relationship, saying: “I think that in knowing him and being in the relationship I am in now, I have definitely made decisions that have made my life feel more like real life and less like just a storyline to be commented on in tabloids.”

Joe also opened up about the relationship in 2022, telling The Wall Street Journal: “If I had a pound for every time I think I’ve been told I’ve been engaged, then I’d have a lot of pound coins.” He went on to say, “The truth is, if the answer was yes, I wouldn’t say and if the answer was no, I wouldn’t say.”

Taylor and Joe are yet to confirm or deny the engagement rumours. But we’re secretly hoping it’s true! Could imagine how magical a Taylor Swift wedding would be?!

Stay tuned for more celebrity news and updates to come!

The post Taylor Swift And Joe Alwyn Are Reportedly ‘Secretly’ Engaged appeared first on Wedding Journal.

To celebrate 15 years of TDR Bridal Birmingham and the launch of their new website and fresh new makeover, TDR Bridal Birmingham are spoiling all their brides with some big benefits!

One of which is the chance to win a dream wedding dress worth £2,500! Enter via the link below and you could be their lucky winner…

CLICK HERE TO ENTER!

Enjoy browsing over 400 gowns and trying on your favourites in one of their six beautiful bridal suites!

(Competition closes 13th July 2022)

Visit TDR Bridal Birmingham to see what everyone’s talking about – throughout July and August, you can also get a 15% discount off your wedding dress and claim a special gift!

(Only available for first dress appointments – offer ends 30^th August)

Give them a call on 0121 423 2777 or book online HERE to join the TDR Bride Club.

Follow them on Instagram HERE to be kept up to date with all the latest news and offers.

Good luck!

The post WIN Your Wedding Dress With TDR Bridal Birmingham appeared first on Wedding Journal.

Our lives have been taken over by Love Island once again, so we decided what better way to inspire our brides and bridesmaids than showing you how to create the ultimate Love Island-Themed hen party?!

RELATED TO: All The Love Island Wedding Dresses & Where To Find Them!

Give your bride-to-be the trip to remember with these fun and funky ideas inspired by the hit TV show – from the dreamy Majorca Villa to the iconic water bottles and hilarious hen games, keep on scrolling to get inspired and find out how to pull off the best hen party ever… que the Love Island theme tune!

THE VILLA:

Sea & Stars – book on plumguide.com

This uber-chic villa in Majorca is giving us all the Love Island vibes from the cobble stone walls to the huge terrace balcony and sleek sun loungers! With five bedrooms and bathrooms, this villa can host up to 10 of you and your bride tribe and would make the ultimate party stay. It is also surrounded by white sand beaches and crystal clear waters with the nearest beach being Cala Millor. Obsessed!

DRINKWEAR:

Can all our bridesmaids please gather to the drinks area! These Love Island-themed champagne flutes are perfect for your hen party away. They can be personalised with any name and colour – and you can even add your big day roles such as ‘Bride’ or ‘Maid of Honour’. How cute!

THE WATER BOTTLES:

Stay hydrated (or keep topped up!) with these adorable Love Island water bottles – hen party edition! Your bride squad and bride-to-be are sure to love these and will make for a super cute keepsake.

THE DECOR:

Now it’s time to set the tone so we’re going to need a little Love Island inspired décor! Of course, you can’t forget the iconic bulb fairylights – these are easy to find almost anywhere and are a simple and affordable way to bring your hen party to the next level.

We also love these Island-style hen party photo frames which will look amazing for all your hen party Instagram pics. Come up with a hen hashtag and you’re selfie ready!

Everyone knows flamingo décor are a big part of the Love Island theme so we couldn’t not include this hilarious sign from Amazon! Surprising your bride with cute decorations like this will really make a difference.

SWIMWEAR:

Watch out… a GROUP of hot new bombshells are about to enter the villa! Get your bride squad feeling fabulous in these hen party swimwear sets that will look great in your photographs and really set the tone for your stay away.

GAMES:

You can’t plan a hen party without some hilarious hen party games! Cards Against Humanity meets the hen party with this Horrible Hens Game which features dares, forfeits and some naughty rules.

RELATED TO: 21 Hilarious Hen Party Games You & Your Girls Will Love

WARNING: All hens are sure to be embarrassed and do some freaky dares!

We love a good beer pong at a party, but every hen party needs prosecco pong! It’s just the classier version of beer pong and makes for super cute décor as well as a fun way to get the drinks flowing. Crack open a bottom of bubbly and you’re ready to play!

Still looking for hen party inspiration? Check out all our hen party & stag suppliers HERE!

The post How To Throw A Love Island-Themed Hen Party appeared first on Wedding Journal.

If you’re looking for dream wedding venues in County Cavan, you’re in the right place! With so much to offer from beautiful backdrops to stunning scenery and gorgeous garden grounds, you’re sure to find an elegant venue for your special day from our top picks.

Keep on scrolling to get inspired!

Farnham Estate

One of the most romantic settings for a fairytale wedding has to be Farnham Estate. With it’s beautiful, landscaped grounds, elegant interiors and serene spa, this is the perfect location for a wedding weekend with family and friends. The bride and groom will be treated to a complimentary suite for two nights and a red carpet welcome with champagne upon arrival. You can also take advantage of the peaceful surroundings for your dream wedding photographs.

RELATED TO: 10 Gorgeous Wedding Venues in County Galway

Boyne Hill House Estate

Start your new chapter in the enchanting setting of Boyne Hill House Estate. The Manor House is full of period glamour and Georgian features for a ceremony that oozes character. With a bridal beauty room, sitting room, dining room, bar and games room there are plenty of spaces to entertain your guests with eight bedrooms suites as well as 35 additional bedrooms in The Courtyard Mews.

Virginia Park Lodge

Set in 100 acres of Cavan countryside overlooking Lough Ramor, Virginia Park Lodge is a dream venue for the romantic couple. The historic house and stunning gardens are exclusively yours to enjoy with your close friends and family amidst the beauty and privacy of the estate. Enjoy a elegant marquee reception draped in fairylights and foilage before taking your dream wedding photographs in the beautiful grounds.

The Olde Post Inn

The Olde Post Inn is a cosy and character-filled venue for wanting something a little different. It is a quaint 200-year-old building with intimate surroundings and open fires, coupled with the finest of modern Irish cuisine. Located in the hidden heartlands inside the village of Cloverhill, this venue is in a peaceful location and boasts a local Church that dates back to the mid 1800s.

RELATED TO: 8 Of The Finest Wedding Venues in County Sligo

Crover House

Set in the beautiful Crover Estate with spectacular views across shimmering Lough Sheelin, Crover House truly has it all! Surrounded by delightful gardens and beautiful Irish countryside, this is the ultimate location for a country house wedding in the midlands. The magnificent views and rolling hills provide the perfect backdrop for your special day celebrations and to capture memories that will last a lifetime.

Cavan Crystal

With stunning interiors and a warm atmosphere, Cavan Crystal is known to be a leading wedding venue in County Cavan. The ballroom is the perfect location for a stylish reception while the gorgeous garden grounds are ideal for capturing your wedding photographs. The award-winning Zest Health & Fitness Club and Utopia Health & Beauty Clinic are even more reasons to stay for your wedding weekend.  

Errigal Country House Hotel

Errigal Country House Hotel is an serene setting for your wedding day. Both tranquil and gracious, it is nestled among the drumlin of County Cavan in the heart of the Lakelands. The 18th century house has been refurbished with a contemporary design offering style and character all-in-one! Catering for just one wedding per day, you’re sure to have a day to remember with all the dreamy details you’ve ever wished for.

Cabra Castle

On the edge of the magnificent Dún a Rí Forest Park stands the majestic Cabra Castle, one of Ireland’s most luxurious castle hotels. Located in the northeast of County Cavan, just an hour drive from Dublin and 90 minutes from Belfast, Cabra Castle is the perfect place for an elegant wedding. Built in 1760, this family-run castle is steeped in history and its charming décor will bring the wow-factor to your day!

RELATED TO: 6 Unmissable Wedding Venues in County Monaghan

Clonabreany House

Imagine your own private country estate with a grand marquee, picturesque grounds and a beautiful reception room – that is what you’ll find and more at Clonabreany House! Choose to have your ceremony in the stunning Orchard Room with mystical views of Loughcrew Cairns or host your day in the romantic woodlands at the Tunnel Wood. The choice is yours!

Still looking for your dream wedding venue? Check out all our local venue suppliers HERE!

The post 9 Dream Wedding Venues In County Cavan appeared first on Wedding Journal.

Little Mix singer Perrie Edwards said ‘YES’ to Liverpool football star Alex Oxlade-Chamberlain who proposed with a huge oval engagement ring during a sunset beach proposal.

RELATED TO: 15 Of The Most Expensive Celebrity Wedding Cakes

Perrie took to Instagram over the weekend to share the happy news with her 15.3 million followers with a series of adorable photographs captioned: “Last night the love of my life got down on one knee and I said… YES!”.

Fans and celebrities rushed to the comments to congratulate the two – one of which was recently engaged Geordie Shore star Vicky Pattison who wrote “Omgggggggggg!!!!! Congratulations gorgeous girl ”.

RELATED TO: Inside Pixie Lott & Oliver Cheshire’s Grand Wedding

Perrie Edwards was previously engaged to One Direction’s Zayn Malik in August 2013 but the pair split in August 2015. Perrie and Alex have now been together for six years and have welcomed their first child, baby Axel, in August last year.

Perrie also shared a close up of her huge oval engagement ring which may be the biggest diamond we’ve seen so far!

RELATED TO: Get The Look: Celebrity Engagement Rings

Although it isn’t known where the couple are on holiday, from the pictures it looks like they are staying in a private villa with their own pool.

We’re so happy for them both and can’t wait to see the wedding… Stay tuned for more news and updates to come!

The post Little Mix’s Perrie Edwards Is ENGAGED! appeared first on Wedding Journal.

Go big or go home… That’s the phrase that comes to mind when we see some of these celebrity wedding cakes! But what does a a celebrity wedding cake look like? When your rich and famous, you’re going to be able to hire some of the world’s best cake makers so we can only expect celebrity wedding cakes to be next level!

This edit features extravagant, gravity-defying cakes to soft, simple and understated cakes with delicate details. From pop singers to old Hollywood stars and the royals, feast your eyes on these stylish sweet treats made for some of our favourite celebrities – starting from the most expensive!

Information provided by a study carried out by the cake experts at Jackandbeyond.com.

1. Priyanka Chopra & Nick Jonas

This magnificent six-tier wedding cake cost Priyanka Chopra and Nick Jonas a whopping £15,000! Made for their 2018 wedding weekend in India which broke the internet for its extravaganza of fireworks and a 75-foot veil, their wedding cake certainly fit the theme of ‘go big or go home!’. Not only was it six-tiers in height, but it also featured a lit chandelier inside and represented a castle tower with decorative columns, pillars, arches and balconies.

RELATED TO: Get The Look: Britney Spears’s Wedding Dress

2. Grace Kelly & Rainier III

Coming in second at £10,000 is this celebrity wedding cake from 1956 when Prince Rainer III married his princess bride Grace Kelly in Monaco. Ethereal and an angelic, this creative cake featured a cage with two turtle doves and a music box of the bride and groom. It also towered high with an impressive six-tiers!

3. Kaley Cuoco & Ryan Sweeting

We admit we had to look twice when it came to Kaley Cuoco and Ryan Sweeting £9,000 wedding cake! Unfortunately, the pair are no longer married and Kaley has since remarried, but that doesn’t mean we can’t appreciate their magnificent cake from their California wedding in 2013. The cake hung upside-down from the ceiling under a chandelier and Kaley even had to bend her knees to cut a slice!

RELATED TO: Inside Pixie Lott & Oliver Cheshire’s Grand Wedding

4. Princess Eugenie & Jack Brooksbank

Going for an autumnal theme for their Windsor wedding in 2018, Princess Eugenie and Jack Brooksbank went for a five-tier red velvet and chocolate cake which cost £6,500! The cake consisted of three tiers of red velvet and two of chocolate sponge and was covered with butter cream, white icing and finished with decorative sugar leaves.

5. Sofia Vergara & Joe Manganiello

Although famous actress Sofia Vergara and actor Joe Manganiello married in 2015 in, their Florida wedding is still memorable for all its extravagant details – especially their wedding cake! Priced at £6,000, the lavish five-tier cake featured a quilted design and an array of stunning white flowers that really made a statement.

RELATED TO: Get The Look: Celebrity Engagement Rings

6. Chiara Ferragni & Fedez

These two did not hold back when it came to their funfair-inspired wedding in Noto, Italy in 2018. Chiara is one of the most famous fashion bloggers also known as ‘The Blonde Salad’ and together with Italian rapper Fedez, they set the bar high for celebrity weddings! Priced at £5,600, their cake was hand painted with the same lyrics and symbols on the bride’s dress. They couple cut the cake hanging in foliage as fireworks went off in the background. The two then went on to enjoy their amusement park reception!

7. George Clooney & Amal Alamuddin

Our next celebrity couple wowed with a striking artistic cake for at their 2014 wedding in Venice, Italy. The famous actor and lawyer spent a total of £5,600 on their four-tier chocolate wedding cake featuring an abstract design, angular lines and arrows in gold and white with fan detailing on top.

RELATED TO: Our Fav Celebrity Couples Spill Their Secrets To A Successful Marriage

8. Olivia Buckland & Alex Bowen

Love Island stars, Olivia Buckland and Alex Bowen married in 2018 with a lavish wedding that included a helicopter, a prosecco van and a eight-tier cake in Essex! The cake which cost £3,500 was created with lace and ruffle details to match Olivia’s wedding gown by Enzoani. It also included floral details to match their flower arrangements by Jades Flower Design.

9. Meghan Markle & Prince Harry

Millions of viewers tuned in to watch Meghan Markle and Prince Harry’s royal wedding at Winsdor Castle in 2018. This wedding cake cost £2,900 and was not the traditional fruitcake expected of the royals. Instead, Harry and Meghan went for a lemon elderflower cake with simple white buttercream frosting. The four-layer cake was deconstructed on gold serving dishes and finished with flowers to tie in the spring season.

RELATED TO: 11 Most Iconic Celebrity Wedding Dresses Of All Time

10. Idris Elba & Sabrina Dhowre

Idris Elba’s cousin-in-law who is an award-winning pastry chef, brought this beautiful creation to life! The couple’s wedding cake was priced at £1,900 for their Morocco wedding in 2019. The five-tier naked cake had a half-iced look topped with red roses to match the theme of the reception. Idris chose a classic vanilla flavour with a cherry filling and buttercream icing, while Sabrina went for an olive oil base with lemon and basil buttercream.

11. Gwyneth Paltrow & Brad Falchuk

Gwyneth Paltrow and Brad Falchuk took a more subtle and understated approach than our other celebrities. They went with these adorable mini wedding cakes, also described as micro wedding cakes, with a choice of carrot cake, vanilla or chocolate for their guests. The cakes were said to have cost £1,500 at their New York wedding.

RELATED TO: 11 Bridal Trends To Inspire You From The Met Gala 2022

12. Penn Badgely & Domino Kirke

Penn Badgely and Domino Kirke celebrated their wedding in New York with a laid-back ceremony, however they pulled out all the stops for their £1,350 naked wedding cake. The gluten-free and vegan combination was lavender, rosewater and chocolate flavoured and topped with fresh fruit. We’re loving this fruitastic and natural wedding cake!

13. Zoe Kravitz & Karl Glusman

We’re sensing a trend with these deconstructed wedding cakes – and we’re not mad at it! This celebrity wedding cake (or cakes!) is priced at £1,200 and embrace a chic and natural look with floral details and cream scraped sides for Zoe Kravitz and Karl Glusman’s wedding in Paris, France.

14. John Legend & Chrissy Teigen

For their glamourous 2013 wedding in Lake Como in Italy, John Legend and Chrissy Teigen opted for a £1,100 naked wedding cake with three-tiers, cream cheese frosting and botanical buds. Naked cakes have really become a trend due to their and other celebrity influences!

15. Hilary Duff & Matthew Koma

Photo via Instagram: @hilarypictures

For her second wedding to Matthew Komain 2019, Disney child star Hillary Duff went for an simple yet stylish two-tier wedding cake with subtle lined edges and delicate leaf-like detailing. The cake was priced at £500 for their wedding in California.

Feeling inspired by these celebrity wedding cakes? To start planning your dream wedding cake, check out our local wedding cake suppliers HERE!

The post 15 Of The Most Expensive Celebrity Wedding Cakes appeared first on Wedding Journal.

Don’t know where to start when it comes to wording your wedding invitations? Don’t worry, this guide on how to word your wedding invitations will walk you through everything step-by-step so you don’t miss a thing! The good news is, wedding invitation wording is actually more straightforward than you think.

Whether you want to keep the language formal or informal is totally up to you – but there are some basic elements that should be included no matter what! However, the most important rule is that you create informative and beautiful wedding invitations that show details on your day and reflect your personality!

RELATED TO: Everything To Include In Your Wedding Invitation Suite

HOW TO WORD YOUR WEDDING INVITATIONS (line-by-line!):

RELATED TO: WEDDING ETIQUTTE: The Do’s & Don’ts You Need To Know

FAQ on wedding invitations:

Overall, this is the basics of how to word your wedding invitations and what you need to think about before you send them. If you want more information on your complete wedding invitation suite, CLICK HERE!

The post How To Word Your Wedding Invitations appeared first on Wedding Journal.

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A post shared by Pixie Lott (@pixielott)

After a five year engagement, Pixie Lott (31) finally said ‘I do’ to model Oliver Cheshire (34) this week with a lavish ceremony at Ely Cathedral wearing an ivory wedding dress by Schiaparelli.

The two got engaged in 2016 on the steps of Paul’s Cathedral but it wasn’t until Monday that they could officially marry after cancelling their date three times due to Covid-19.

RELATED TO: Get The Look: Celebrity Engagement Rings

Pixie took to Instagram to share photos and videos of their grand ceremony which showed of her embellished ballgown wedding dress and a second dress reveal!

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A post shared by Pixie Lott (@pixielott)

THE FASHION

Her ceremony dress was an ivory Schiaparelli ballgown designed by Daniel Roseberry that featured pearl embellished detailing, sheer sleeves and a dramatic 4.5 meter long train – the dress has also been rumored to have taken 650 hours to make!

Pixie revealed a secret four leaf clover which had been sewn into the inside of her wedding dress alongside her wedding date for good luck.

The ‘All About Tonight’ singer was seen in a cute cocktail wedding dress captured right before preforming a bouquet toss with her 12 bridesmaids who wore yellow satin slip dresses. She completed the look with a chic white headband.

RELATED TO: Our Fav Celebrity Couples Spill Their Secrets To A Successful Marriage