destination wedding Archives | Page 5 of 9

The Top 10 European Destination Wedding Hotspots for 2024

July 30, 2024July 1, 2024 by Harmony Walton

When I consider romantic wedding locations, I always think of Ireland first, of course! But there are other great European destination wedding locations that are definitely worth mentioning. Below are the top European destination wedding hotspots of 2024. Let’s get into it!

Dublin, Ireland

First and foremost, the magical country of Ireland. With its castles, lush landscapes, and vibrant culture, Dublin provides a unique and enchanting destination for couples seeking an Irish fairy tale wedding – but really, anywhere on this incredible island will do. Here’s a wee look: Ireland’s Top Luxury Wedding Venues.

Santorini, Greece

With its stunning sunsets and iconic white-washed buildings overlooking the crystal-clear waters, Santorini continues to be a dream destination for couples seeking a romantic Mediterranean backdrop for their special day.

Tuscany, Italy

Picture rolling hills, charming vineyards, and historic villas – Tuscany is a timeless choice for couples who desire a rustic and picturesque wedding surrounded by the beauty of the Italian countryside.

Barcelona, Spain

The vibrant city of Barcelona offers a unique blend of historic charm and modern flair. From Gaudi’s architectural wonders to the lively atmosphere of La Rambla, it’s a perfect choice for couples wanting a cosmopolitan celebration with a touch of bohemian chic.

Porto, Portugal

Personally, I adore Portugal. Whether it’s inland or the coast, I go into more detail about my Top 5 Favourite Portugal Wedding Venues here. Porto, with its colorful buildings, historic bridges, and the Douro River, provides a romantic setting for couples seeking a blend of old-world charm and modern romance.

Amalfi Coast, Italy

Steep cliffs, lemon groves, and the azure sea make the Amalfi Coast an enchanting location for couples in search of a romantic seaside celebration. Whether in Positano, Ravello, or Amalfi itself, the backdrop is always breathtaking.

Prague, Czech Republic

The historic charm of Prague’s cobblestone streets, medieval architecture, and the iconic Charles Bridge create a fairytale setting for couples looking to exchange vows in a storybook atmosphere.

Dubrovnik, Croatia

Known as the “Pearl of the Adriatic,” Dubrovnik boasts medieval charm, historic city walls, and breathtaking coastal views. It’s a destination that combines rich history with a touch of magic for couples seeking a truly unique setting.

French Riviera, France

From Cannes to Nice, the French Riviera exudes sophistication and glamour. Couples can choose from luxurious beachside venues or historic chateaus, offering a perfect blend of opulence and Mediterranean allure.

Reykjavik, Iceland

For the adventurous couple, Reykjavik offers a one-of-a-kind experience. Imagine exchanging vows under the dancing Northern Lights, surrounded by Iceland’s otherworldly landscapes – a true spectacle for a destination wedding.

Keep all these European destination hotspots in mind when you’re brainstorming the perfect location. Just like every couple, each of these destinations has something really special that makes them ideal. If you’re ready to make some plans, just give me a shout!

Slán go Fóill,

Tara

Images from Greg Finck, Christina Brosnan, Story of Eve and the website of Palácio Estoril Hotel

Dreamy Summer Wedding Destinations

July 23, 2024July 1, 2024 by Harmony Walton

Are you planning your dream wedding and envision exchanging vows against a backdrop of stunning landscapes or historic charm? Summer is the perfect season for destination weddings, offering ideal weather and a plethora of picturesque locations to choose from. From breathtaking beaches to romantic castles, let’s discuss some dreamy summer wedding destinations, including the enchanting emerald isle of Ireland.

Bali, Indonesia

Known as the “Island of the Gods,” Bali offers exotic beauty and cultural richness for couples seeking a unique wedding experience. Recite your vows at pristine beaches or lush rice terraces or majestic waterfalls. Bali’s natural landscapes provide an idyllic backdrop for all celebrations. Bali offers vibrant culture, luxurious resorts, and warm hospitality.

Amalfi Coast, Italy

For couples seeking old-world charm, the Amalfi Coast is a quintessential destination. Picture colourful cliffside villages, panoramic views, and lush lemon groves. The Amalfi coast is a UNESCO World Heritage site and provides many romantic settings for exchanging vows. Whether you choose a seaside ceremony or a historic villa, the Amalfi Coast exudes romance at every turn.

Santorini, Greece

So many couples are travelling to Santorini for the mesmerizing sunsets and iconic white-washed buildings overlooking the Aegean Sea. I’d say Santorini tops the list of dream wedding destinations. Imagine saying “I do” with the backdrop of azure waters and volcanic cliffs, followed by a romantic reception under the stars. The magical ambiance of Santori cannot be topped. Plus, there are many luxurious resorts that make Santorini a truly unforgettable wedding experience.

Tuscany, Italy

You don’t have to be a foodie to love Italy, but it helps. There is something magical about exchanging vows amidst olive groves and cypress trees, followed by a feast of Tuscan cuisine and fine wine. No guest could ever complain when surrounded by rolling hills, vineyards, and historic villas. Tuscany epitomizes rustic elegance and timeless romance. Whether you choose a vineyard estate or a Renaissance villa, Tuscany offers an unforgettable setting for a destination wedding immersed in Italian charm.

Dublin, Ireland

I might be biased, but Ireland is my first pick for a dreamy summer wedding destination. With its verdant landscapes, ancient castles, and rugged coastlines, it’s no wonder Ireland is a sought-after destination for romantic weddings. From the majestic cliffs of Moher to the fairytale-like castles of Ashford and Dromoland, this beautiful isle offers a myriad of enchanting venues for couples seeking a magical setting. In the summer (and beyond), Ireland’s natural beauty and rich heritage provide an ideal backdrop for a destination wedding that is both timeless and unforgettable.

Summer destination weddings offer couples the opportunity to celebrate their love amidst some of the world’s most breathtaking landscapes and iconic landmarks. Whether you’re drawn to the sun-kissed shores of Santorini, the historic charm of Tuscany, or the mystical allure of Ireland, there’s a perfect destination waiting to fulfil your wedding dreams. So, pack your bags and say “I do” in style. Because love knows no bounds, embark on the journey of a lifetime with your beloved.

Ps. Ireland is just as brilliant for a honeymoon!

Slán go Fóill,

Tara

Images by Brosnan Photographic

The Traveler’s List of Must Haves for an Irish Destination Wedding

June 11, 2024April 17, 2024 by Harmony Walton

Planning for a destination wedding in Ireland brings excitement and anticipation, but it also raises the question: What should travelers pack for this magical adventure? To ensure you’re well-equipped for every moment of your journey, here’s a list of must haves for an Irish destination wedding:

Layers, Layers, Layers

Irish weather is famously unpredictable and you can’t let a little rain dampen your spirits! Pack layers like sweaters, light jackets, and scarves to stay cozy during outdoor ceremonies or exploring the countryside. Bring a quality raincoat or a compact umbrella to stay dry and stylish, whatever the weather.

Sturdy Shoes

From cobblestone streets to rugged cliffs, Ireland’s terrain demands durable footwear. Opt for comfortable and waterproof shoes to keep your feet happy during all your adventures.

Formal Attire

Dress to impress for the wedding ceremony and any related events. Whether it’s a black-tie affair or a casual gathering, be sure to pack appropriate attire to celebrate in style. This includes a light (or heavy) jacket for unpredictable weather and comfortable shoes for dancing.

Sun Protection, Medication and Toiletries

Yes, it does shine in Ireland! Pack sunscreen, sunglasses, and a hat to shield yourself from the sun’s rays, especially if you plan on exploring the lush landscapes or enjoying outdoor festivities. Don’t forget your essentials, as well! Pack any necessary medications and toiletries, as well as a basic first aid kit, to ensure a comfortable and stress-free stay.

Adapter Plug

Ireland uses a different plug type (Type G) than many other countries. Ensure you can charge your devices by bringing a universal adapter plug along for the trip. This is definitely one of the most important must haves for an Irish destination wedding.

Camera or Smartphone

With its picturesque landscapes and charming towns, Ireland is a photographer’s dream. Capture every magical moment with a camera or smartphone to cherish for years to come.

Travel Insurance

Peace of mind is priceless. Consider purchasing travel insurance to protect yourself against unexpected events like flight cancellations or medical emergencies.

Cash and Cards

While credit and debit cards are widely accepted, it’s always a good idea to carry some cash for smaller purchases or in case you encounter businesses that don’t accept cards.

Sense of Adventure

Above all, bring an open heart and a sense of adventure. Embrace the beauty, culture, and hospitality of Ireland as you celebrate love in one of the most enchanting destinations on Earth.

Whether you’re a bride, groom, or guest, preparing for an Irish celebration requires thoughtful consideration of the unpredictable weather, rugged landscapes, and cultural experiences that await. By providing your guests with this packing list, you’ll help ensure that they’re well-prepared for your destination wedding in Ireland and can fully enjoy the adventure!

Ps. Are you planning your destination wedding in Ireland? Fabulous! Be sure to find more Destination Wedding Trends and inspiration here.

Slán go Fóill,

Tara

Images by Brosnan Photographic

Summer Must-Haves for a Destination Wedding

May 28, 2024April 17, 2024 by Harmony Walton

Summer is the perfect time to host your destination wedding, but there are some things you’ll want to keep in mind when planning your big day during the busy season. These are just some of the summer must-haves for a destination wedding.

Outdoor Venue

The weather in summer is something worth taking advantage of and an outdoor venue will allow you to do just that! Picture yourself on a stunning beach, basking in the beautiful sun on your big day. If you’re not much of a beach person, gardens, vineyards, or even lush green mountains are fabulous choices. And, of course, I always recommend the stunning nature of Ireland for a dreamy and memorable wedding trip!

Clear Communication

When it comes to travel plans for your destination wedding, summer requires clear communication between you and your guests to get everyone there. As one of the busiest seasons for travel, your guests will want to know well ahead of time how to find their way to your country or location of choice.

This could even mean working out plans to travel as a unit of people rather than completely separate if that is the best way to keep all of your guests together.

Planned Accommodation

Just like you’ll need to communicate ahead of time for travel, planning accommodations will also make everything smoother during the busy season. Hotels can fill up fast during the summer travel season, so knowing your venue well in advance will need to be a top priority. As soon as you have that venue set, let your guests know!

Perhaps consider finding a hotel within a reasonable distance of your venue and see if you can book rooms for each of your guests as a large group so everyone is in a closer space.

Light and Breathable Attire

If you know your heart is set on a summer destination wedding, then it is likely your big day might be a bit warmer. Keep an eye on the typical weather of the destination and start to plan your attire accordingly. This doesn’t mean you have to sacrifice the gown of your dreams! There are plenty of gorgeous wedding gowns that will look incredible at a summer destination wedding.

However, if your heart is set on a heavier gown, opt to have multiple outfits for the different pieces of your day. This could include preparing light and breathable attire for the longer reception that will take place after your “I do” moment.

Remember, the most important part about planning your big day is you, so focus on what will make the process most enjoyable to you. Happy summer destination wedding planning!

Slán go Fóill,

Tara

Image by Aspect Photography

Love at Adare Manor: Chris and Lucy’s Real Irish Wedding

May 14, 2024April 17, 2024 by Harmony Walton

When Christopher Lawlor and Lucy Corrigan matched on Bumble in 2019, neither one of them had any idea of the epic love story they were beginning, nor the fact that it would end in a brilliant Irish wedding at Adare Manor. With incredibly busy professional lives in New York City (Lucy is a lawyer and Chris is an entrepreneur and co-founder of an AI infrastructure company), it took months before they were able to meet for their first date.

When it finally happened, the two met at a wine bar (Compagnie du Vins Surnaturels) and immediately lost track of time, talking about everything from food to music to family. Their relationship took off and the two began to enjoy dates all over the city (many to see the New York Philharmonic).

Suddenly, the new couple found themselves in a city completely halted by Covid. When remote work became mandatory, Chris and Lucy made the decision to travel to Philadelphia to visit Chris’s parents “for two weeks”, unaware that two weeks would turn into five months! As soon as the restrictions lifted, it was time for Chris to “meet the parents” in Lucy’s hometown of Dublin. When all family and friends were introduced and all approvals were met, Chris took Lucy to Park City, Utah where she was met with the ultimate relationship test: three months of ski season. Lucy passed with flying colors and Chris proposed a year later, on a beach, Lucy’s much preferred location.

When I met with Lucy and Chris, it became clear that it was Lucy’s desire to share the beauty and warmth of her home country with all of their combined loved ones. Lucy said this about choosing Adare Manor: “We chose Adare for two reasons. The first is we genuinely think that it’s one of the best hotels we’ve ever stayed at and the second is… we wanted an Irish village where people could show up and all be in one place, close together.” With guests coming from all over the world, Lucy and Chris said they loved nothing more than the idea of their friends and family bumping into each other on the streets of Adare Village.

In the same spirit, Lucy and Chris wanted to cultivate an environment of reunion and laughter, creating memories their guests would keep for a lifetime. With everyone coming together, friends and family from both sides and from different countries, the couple wanted the atmosphere to be a mix of both formal and casual, to go from black tie to full Philadelphia Eagles attire within 24-hours (a hilarious moment that actually happened). Lucy said: “We could have easily gotten married at City Hall, but the opportunity to have all of the people we love come together in one room was too good to pass up. The vibe across the three days was about providing the space, the time, and the drinks for people to see friends and family they don’t normally get to see.”

Though there were many fashionable moments throughout the three day wedding celebration, when the time came to walk down the aisle, the bride wore an Elie Saab gown (that she fell in love with during a serendipitous try-on at Elizabeth Taylor’s old townhouse off 5th avenue!) and Chris wore a Saman Amel tuxedo with a La Bowtique bowtie.

With the vows completed, the new husband and wife exited the ceremony, walking down the aisle to the iconic soundtrack of Star Wars. The reception was brilliant, with everyone out on the dancefloor, including Lucy’s 91-year-old grandfather! Beautiful speeches were given, wedding crashers were escorted from the party by loyal friends, and a wedding cake made out of wheels of cheese (created by Lucy’s favourite cheesemonger) was enjoyed by all.

As a wedding planner, it is a dream to work with such a fun-loving, adventurous and beautiful couple as Chris and Lucy. It was an absolute pleasure to spend time creating a space where Dublin and Philadelphia could come together in an iconic celebration of Chris, Lucy, friends, family, love and cheese.

Slán go Fóill,

Tara

The Warming of the Ring Ceremony

April 2, 2024February 29, 2024 by Harmony Walton

Often, I am asked by my lovely couples how they can incorporate Irish culture and tradition into their wedding day. One of my favourite answers is the Warming of the Ring Ceremony. Recently, I was honoured to be interviewed by The Knot in regards to this centuries-old Irish wedding tradition.

What is it?

The Warming of the Ring Ceremony is a strongly symbolic tradition that includes everyone in attendance. Each ring is held (whether in the box or out of the box) by every attending friend and family member. Guests are encouraged to speak well wishes, pray, or internally focus on some loving intentions for the couple. In this way, the rings are ‘warmed’ with love before they end up on the fingers of the newlyweds.

How does it work?

There are a couple different ways I’ve seen the Warming of the Ring Ceremony preformed.

Typically, there is an officiant with a script for each different version. In the first, the officiant meets the guests as they arrive and offers them the rings. Before they take their seats, the officiant asks each attendee to ‘warm the rings’ with their intentions for the couple.

In the second version, the tradition takes place during the wedding ceremony. In this case, the officiant asks that before exchanging, the rings are passed around to each guest. Personally, I like this version the best. The physical warming of the rings carries such a beautiful sentiment.

How can you make it yours?

For your loved ones who cannot be in attendance, I always suggest adding a personal item of theirs: like jewelry, a linen or lace hanky to pass around with the rings. Personally, I think it is more intimate to pass the rings around without a box to make the ‘warming ceremony’ even more literal. As each guest physically warms the ring with their hands, they infuse even more warmth by way of loving thoughts and wishes. In the past, we’ve read poetry or scripture as the rings are passed to each attending guest, making these moments even more sentimental and sweet.

Are you interested in incorporating the Warming of the Rings Ceremony into your wedding day? Read my interview on The Knot or get in touch!

Slán go Fóill,

Tara

Image by Barry McCall