Festive 3-Day Merrion Hotel Wedding | Ellen & Geoff

Ellen and Geoff’s Dublin Merrion Hotel wedding was definitely one for the books! What made their nuptials even more special was that the way they came together after two long years of COVID cancellations – in fact, this couple had no less than five wedding dates! When restrictions finally eased, they were able to turn their Christmas micro-wedding into a full-blown multi-day celebration, which is where Tara Faye Events came into the picture. And celebrate they did! The three days of posh parties included a rehearsal dinner at Michelin-rated Restaurant Patrick Guilbaud, a ceremony at Dublin’s famed Newman University Church followed by cocktails at the historic Museum of Irish Literature, dinner and dancing at the gorgeous five-star Merrion Hotel, and a grand finale blow out bash at city hotspot, The Grayson. There were Christmas trees, twinkling lights and candles on every table, but really, it was Ellen and Geoff’s smiles that lit up every room. ‘Twas the season to be merry – and married!

Restaurant Patrick Guilbaud rehearsal dinner

Christmas tree rehearsal dinner in Dublin

The happy couple met a decade ago at a rugby club ball, when Ellen introduced herself to a handsome stranger on a dare. They started dating and, after taking a break a few years later, were brought back together by rugby once again after a world cup match in Cardiff. It was clear that their love hadn’t faded in their time apart and the rest, as they say, is history.

Bride getting ready in Gilda & Pearl robe

Bride getting ready Linda Farrow sunglasses

Merrion Hotel wedding boutonniere for groom

One of the things that I loved about this wedding was the parade of bridal fashion that Ellen wore throughout the three days of events. The highlight of course was the couture Vivienne Westwood dress and overskirt she donned for the wedding itself. Later, at their Merrion Hotel wedding reception, she switched out her veil for a headpiece, her Jimmy Choos for Louboutins, and her formal gown for a party dress! For the Day 3 event, there was a second, shimmery party dress and custom ABC Dior shoes. And of course, the groom looked equally stylish in his custom velvet tux. What a fabulous pair they made!

Newman University Church wedding interior

Newman University Church wedding ceremony

The ceremony was filled with special, sentimental details and moments. Ellen and Geoff chose the Newman University Church as it was where the bride made her communion and confirmation, and always pictured herself walking up the aisle. When the big day arrived, she did so to the strains of Nella Fantasia, beautifully sung by talented family friend, Sean Boylan. Another special touch was the silk ribbon that tied the bridal bouquet, which was calligraphed with a phrase special to the couple as well as the words: ‘worth the wait’.

There’s something magical about a Merrion Hotel wedding at any time of year, but at Christmas that magic is amplified tenfold. It’s not just the garlands of greenery decking its Georgian façade, the twinkling of lights on Christmas trees or the elegance of the Merrion’s reception rooms. There’s a particular warmth and intimacy you feel here. To elevate this even further, we added special touches like flowers running the length of the staircase, personalised ornament favours, and touches of festive red, gold, and green intertwined with cool pastels. It created a wonderful atmosphere, further enhanced by the roaming band during dinner, which kept things lively!

Merrion Hotel wedding bride and groom arrival

For the after party, we also lined the stairs with blooms, and created experiential balloon installations which filled the windows and walls at The Grayson and made for a truly festive atmosphere. It was a party that the couple and their guests won’t soon forget!

The Grayson Dublin wedding afterparty décor

The Grayson Dublin wedding afterparty bride

Here’s what the bride and groom had to say about working with Tara Faye Events for their Merrion Hotel wedding:

“If I can share one recommendation with you and you have the means to do so. I couldn’t possibly recommend Tara Fay and her team any higher. If you are considering an Irish destination wedding, hire her! Tara and her team were invaluable throughout our short time planning our wedding together and they were utterly indispensable throughout our wedding weekend.”

Congratulations again, Ellen and Geoff! I’m so happy we were able to turn your long-awaited dream wedding into a reality!

Slán go Fóill,

Tara

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