Tag: event planning

Celebrate the New Year in Ireland

by Harmony Walton

As the New Year approaches, many couples look for unique and luxurious ways to celebrate and welcome a fresh start together. If you’re looking for some ideas to celebrate the New Year in Ireland, let’s get started! With its breathtaking landscapes, charming cities, and rich history, this country offers an array of elegant options. (Are you a New Year baby? Here are some ideas to celebrate your birthday like no other in Ireland!)

A Castle Retreat

What could be more romantic and luxurious than starting the year in a majestic Irish castle? Ireland is home to many castles that have been transformed into luxury hotels. These locations provide the perfect setting for a memorable celebration, combining history, grandeur, and modern comforts. Ashford Castle, for example, offers a spectacular New Year’s Eve package that includes gourmet dining, live entertainment, and a dazzling fireworks display over Lough Corrib. Staying in a castle allows couples to experience Ireland’s rich heritage while being pampered in lavish surroundings.

Private Fireworks and Champagne Toast

For couples seeking exclusivity, renting a private villa or luxury holiday home overlooking the Irish coastline or countryside is the perfect way to celebrate in solitude. Hire a party planner to take care of all the details so you can relax and focus on the upcoming year. Many high-end properties can arrange for private fireworks displays to mark the stroke of midnight. Enjoy a glass of champagne under the stars while fireworks light up the sky and the rugged Irish landscape.

Fine Dining at Michelin-Star Restaurants

Ireland boasts a number of Michelin-starred restaurants that offer exquisite dining experiences, ideal for couples wishing to indulge in the finest cuisine. In Dublin, Chapter One or Liath create culinary masterpieces using locally sourced, seasonal ingredients, providing an unforgettable dining experience. For a countryside escape, The Oak Room at Adare Manor in County Limerick delivers world-class dining in a sumptuous setting. Many of these restaurants offer special New Year’s Eve tasting menus, paired with the finest wines and champagnes, making it a true night to remember.

Scenic Hot Air Balloon Ride

Take your New Year’s celebration to new heights with a scenic hot air balloon ride over Ireland’s picturesque landscapes. Drifting peacefully over the rolling hills, castles, and coastlines of Ireland while watching the sunset on the final day of the year is a romantic and breathtaking experience. Many operators offer private balloon flights, making this an intimate adventure for couples who want to start the year off in a truly unforgettable way.

Luxury Spa Weekend

Relax into the New Year. Stay at one of Ireland’s renowned luxury spa hotels. Properties like The Europe Hotel & Resort in Killarney offer indulgent spa treatments, infinity pools overlooking scenic lakes, and world-class amenities. Couples can spend the last days of the year unwinding with massages and wellness rituals before toasting to the New Year in plush robes, sipping champagne by a roaring fire.

Whether it’s a castle stay, a Michelin-star dining experience, or a serene spa retreat, Ireland offers countless ways for couples to ring in the New Year luxuriously. Ireland always ensures that every New Year’s celebration is as memorable and magical as the last.

Slán go Fóill,

Tara

Images by Story of Eve and Anée Atelier

Celebrate Your Milestone Birthday Bash in Ireland

by Harmony Walton

A little birdie told me you have a milestone birthday right around the corner! Brilliant! Are you looking for a unique way to celebrate? Ireland, with its breathtaking landscapes, rich cultural heritage, and luxurious accommodations, offers an unparalleled setting for celebrating a milestone birthday. If you’re seeking an extraordinary and unforgettable birthday bash, Ireland provides the perfect blend of opulence and charm. Here’s how to plan an exclusive birthday celebration that will be the talk of your elite circle for years to come!

Selecting the Perfect Venue

As I’ve stated before, Ireland is home to some of the most magnificent castles and estates, ideal for hosting a grand birthday celebration. Here are a few top choices:

Ashford Castle: This 800-year-old castle, nestled on the shores of Lough Corrib, offers a fairytale setting with impeccable service. The castle boasts 83 rooms and suites, a cinema, a billiard room, and a stunning spa. Hosting your birthday here promises you’ll have a regal experience with private dining options, exclusive use of the castle, and a range of bespoke activities. Learn more about Ashford Castle.

Adare Manor: Adare Manor combines historical grandeur with modern luxury and is set in the heart of a picturesque 840-acre estate. This neo-Gothic mansion offers a championship golf course, a world-class spa, and exquisite dining. The manor’s Michelin-starred restaurant, The Oak Room, is perfect for an intimate yet lavish birthday dinner. Learn more about celebrations I’ve planned at Adare Manor. I planned this bash at Adare Manor!

Dromoland Castle: Dromoland Castle is a luxurious retreat with a rich history and beautiful surroundings. Your guests will love the castle’s fine dining, golf course, and falconry experiences. This venue is particularly unique for a milestone birthday bash in Ireland. Learn more about celebrations I’ve planned at Dromoland Castle. This venue is one of Ireland’s most popular event spaces!

Curating a Unique Experience

For a birthday bash that truly stands out, consider incorporating exclusive experiences that highlight the best of Irish culture and natural beauty.

Private Helicopter Tour: Start the celebrations with a private helicopter tour of Ireland’s stunning landscapes. Soar over the Cliffs of Moher, the Ring of Kerry, and the wild Atlantic coastline, offering your guests unparalleled views and a thrilling adventure.

Exclusive Whiskey Tasting: Ireland is renowned for its whiskey, and what better way to celebrate than with a private tasting session at the historic Jameson Distillery or the luxurious Midleton Distillery? Enjoy exclusive access and personalised tours, tasting rare and vintage whiskeys under the guidance of a master distiller.

Private Concert or Ceilidh: Elevate your event with a private concert featuring renowned Irish musicians or a traditional ceilidh dance. Whether you prefer classical music, contemporary artists, or traditional Irish folk, a personalised performance will add a magical touch to your celebration.

Luxury Golfing Experience: For golf enthusiasts, Ireland’s world-class courses provide an unmatched experience. Host a private tournament at Ballybunion, Royal County Down, or Lahinch Golf Club, complete with personalised caddies and bespoke amenities.

Gourmet Delights

No milestone celebration is complete without exquisite cuisine. Ireland’s culinary scene has evolved to offer a diverse range of gourmet experiences, from farm-to-table dining to the most exclusive and luxurious restaurants.

Michelin-Starred Dining: Treat your guests to a lavish meal at one of Ireland’s Michelin-starred restaurants. Chapter One in Dublin, Aniar in Galway, and the aforementioned Oak Room at Adare Manor are just a few options where you can indulge in culinary masterpieces crafted from the finest local ingredients.

Private Chef Experience: For a more personalised dining experience, hire a private chef to create a bespoke menu tailored to your tastes. Enjoy a multi-course dinner in the privacy of your castle or estate, featuring locally sourced delicacies and paired with fine wines and rare whiskeys.

Final Touches

Ensure your milestone birthday bash in Ireland is truly unforgettable with these additional touches:

Luxurious Transportation: From private jets and helicopters to chauffeured vintage cars, ensure every aspect of your journey is as luxurious as the celebration itself.

Personalised Invitations and Gifts: Set the tone with custom-designed invitations and thank-you gifts, such as personalised crystal decanters or bespoke Irish linen.

Professional Event Planning: Deny stress entry to your party! Engage the services of a top-tier event planner specializing in luxury events to handle every detail, ensuring a seamless and stress-free experience. This way you can sit back and enjoy every moment of your milestone birthday bash in Ireland.

A milestone birthday deserves a celebration that is as unique and memorable as the individual it honours and Ireland provides the perfect backdrop for an extraordinary event. Indulge in the ultimate celebration that will leave a lasting impression on you and your distinguished guests.

Slán go Fóill,

Tara

Images by Eric Kelley, Anée Atelier, Executive Helicopters, and Ashford Castle.

The Role of a Destination Wedding Planner

by Harmony Walton

Planning a wedding in a foreign country can be daunting. Enter: the destination wedding planner, your key to turning your Irish wedding dreams into reality. Let’s explore the role of a destination wedding planner and why hiring one for your wedding in Ireland is a wise decision.

What is a Destination Wedding Planner?

A destination wedding planner is a seasoned professional who specializes in organizing weddings held in locations away from the couple’s hometown or country. They possess the expertise, connections, and local knowledge necessary to plan and execute a flawless celebration in a destination of your choice. (While we’re at it, let’s also talk about the difference between a wedding planner and a venue manager – and why you need both!)

What Do They Do?

Destination wedding planners wear many hats to ensure that your wedding day unfolds seamlessly. Here’s a glimpse into their role.

Venue Selection: Ireland offers an array of stunning venues for your wedding. A destination wedding planner will help you navigate these options, considering factors such as capacity, ambiance, and accessibility.

Logistics Coordination: Coordinating travel, accommodations, transportation, and timelines can be overwhelming when planning a wedding from afar. Your destination wedding planner will handle all the logistical details, leaving you free to focus on the excitement of your upcoming nuptials.

Vendor Management: From florists and photographers to caterers and musicians, your planner will recommend trusted vendors who can bring your vision to life. They’ll negotiate contracts, schedule appointments, and oversee the execution of services, ensuring that every aspect of your wedding reflects your style and preferences.

Cultural Insight: Navigating local customs, traditions, and regulations is essential when planning a wedding in a foreign country. Your destination wedding planner will provide invaluable insight into Irish culture, etiquette, and legal requirements, ensuring that your celebration is respectful and compliant with local practices.

Budget Management: With their expertise in budgeting and cost estimation, destination wedding planners can help you allocate funds effectively, maximizing value without sacrificing quality. They’ll provide transparent pricing estimates and offer guidance on where to invest your resources for the greatest impact.

Why Hire a Destination Wedding Planner for Your Irish Wedding?

Choosing to enlist the services of a destination wedding planner for your Irish wedding offers numerous benefits.

Local Expertise: With their extensive knowledge of Ireland’s wedding industry and network of local vendors, planners can help you discover hidden gems and create a truly authentic Irish experience for you and your guests.

Stress Reduction: Planning a wedding from a distance can be overwhelming, but with a destination wedding planner at your side, you can enjoy a stress-free planning process. They’ll troubleshoot any issues and ensure that everything runs smoothly on your big day.

Personalised Service: Destination wedding planners offer personalised attention and tailored solutions to meet your unique needs and preferences. Whether you envision an intimate elopement or a grand celebration, they’ll work closely with you to bring your vision to life.

Peace of Mind: By entrusting the planning and coordination of your wedding to a professional, you can relax and savor every moment of this special time in your life. Your planner will be there to support you every step of the way, from the initial consultation to the final farewell.

A destination wedding planner is your trusted ally in creating the destination wedding of your dreams. With their expertise, resources, and dedication to excellence, they’ll ensure that your wedding day is nothing short of magical.

Slán go Fóill,

Tara

Images by Greg Finck

Extravagant Garden Weddings Inspired by the 2024 Met Gala

by Harmony Walton

In my opinion, nothing exudes romance and sophistication quite like a garden wedding. In 2024, the Met Gala has set an inspiring precedent for lavish, nature-inspired events, making it the perfect muse for couples seeking an extravagant garden wedding. This year’s Met Gala was a feast for the senses, blending opulence with the organic beauty of nature. Ultimately, it created a vision that seamlessly translates into the ultimate dream wedding.

The Allure of Nature Meets High Fashion

The 2024 Met Gala, themed “Sleeping Beauties: Reawakening Fashion” and with a dress code of “The Garden of Time,” showcased the most glamorous interpretations of the natural world. Celebrities graced the red carpet adorned in couture gowns reminiscent of blooming gardens, cascading waterfalls, and lush bouquets. This celebration of nature’s splendor provides the perfect blueprint for a grand garden wedding.

Setting the Scene: A Verdant Venue

Choosing the right venue is paramount to capturing the essence of a Met Gala-inspired garden wedding. Opt for a botanical garden, an estate with sprawling lawns, or a historic mansion surrounded by lush greenery. A great example of this theme is found in the above image of Ryan and Emily’s Fairytale Wedding at Adare Manor. These venues offer a natural backdrop that can be enhanced with luxurious floral arrangements and elaborate landscaping. Picture a ceremony beneath a canopy of wisteria, with petals scattered along the aisle, or a reception under the stars with twinkling fairy lights woven through ancient trees.

If we are taking inspiration from the Met Gala, where florals were not just accents but central to the overall aesthetic, your wedding should feature abundant, artfully arranged flowers. Think oversized floral installations, such as arches dripping with orchids and roses, tablescapes overflowing with peonies and hydrangeas, and even floral chandeliers. Each arrangement should display the wild beauty of nature, but with a touch of curated elegance to make it feel like an enchanted forest.

Sumptuous Dining in Nature’s Lap

Continuing the theme, a garden wedding inspired by the Met Gala should offer a dining experience that is as visually stunning as it is delicious. I imagine this as long banquet tables adorned with cascading floral centerpieces, gilded tableware, and crystal glassware. Menus can draw on fresh, seasonal ingredients, reflecting the bounty of the garden. I love the idea of serving dishes that incorporate edible flowers and herbs, along with signature cocktails infused with botanical flavours.

Fashion Forward Bridal and Guest Attire

The Met Gala is ultimately a fashion show, so it’s imperative to channel the high-fashion sensibility of the Met Gala into your wedding attire. For the bride, consider a gown that combines traditional elements with avant-garde details—perhaps a dress with intricate floral appliqués, a dramatic train that mimics cascading vines, or a delicate lace bodice reminiscent of spider silk. Bridesmaids can wear gowns in varying shades of green, pink, or even metallic hues that imitate the organic colours of the garden.

To take it one step further, guests should be encouraged to dress in their finest garden-inspired attire. With this motivation, your wedding will be sure to create a scene straight out of a fashion editorial. You can aid your attendees in choosing the right attire by offering the image of a natural theme with botanical prints, soft pastels, and elegant fabrics.

Entertainment to Enchant

In true Met Gala fashion, entertainment should be an unforgettable spectacle. Live music can create a magical atmosphere. For a touch of whimsy, consider adding performances by acrobats or dancers dressed as woodland creatures, bringing a fantastical element to the evening. When you give your entertainers a enchanted place to perform, they will seamlessly blend in to the celebration and likely be inspired by such a creative and marvellous atmosphere.

When you have gone to such great lengths to create an extravagant garden wedding, it’s important to ensure that every moment is captured with the same meticulous detail that characterizes the Met Gala. Hiring a skilled photographer and videographer who can capture the interplay of light and nature, the intricate details of the décor, and the joyous moments shared with loved ones will allow you to relive the magic for years to come.

Inspired by the grandeur and natural beauty celebrated at the 2024 Met Gala, an extravagant garden wedding can be a breathtaking blend of opulence and organic charm. With an event planner that prioritizes thoughtful organisation and attention to detail, your special day can become a timeless celebration that mirrors the elegance of the Met Gala and the timeless beauty of nature.

Slán go Fóill,

Tara

Images by Brosnan Photographic

Wedding Cake Alternatives for 2024

by Harmony Walton

Breaking away from the conventional wedding cake and embracing the rich culinary heritage of Ireland can add a charming and memorable touch to your destination wedding. There’s a delightful array of cake alternatives to explore that can be tailored for an unforgettable Irish wedding experience. Get ready to tantalize your taste buds with these irresistible wedding cake alternatives:

Guinness Chocolate Cake

Combine two Irish favorites by serving a rich and decadent Guinness chocolate cake. The stout adds depth to the chocolate flavour, creating a memorable dessert for guests to enjoy. This would be especially poignant for couples getting married at Ashford Castle, a gorgeous venue in County Mayo that was once home to the Guinness family.

Irish Dessert Table

Why settle for one dessert when you can have multiples? How about an array of traditional Irish desserts such as Irish cream truffles, Bailey’s Irish cream cheesecake, or Irish whiskey bread pudding. This allows guests to sample various treats and adds a cultural flair to the celebration.

Miniature Pies or Tarts

Consider offering an assortment of miniature pies or tarts filled with Irish-inspired flavours such as apple and whiskey, or berries with Irish cream. Guests can enjoy a variety of flavours and textures without committing to a single slice of cake.

Irish Scones or Soda Bread

I love the idea of serving freshly baked Irish scones or soda bread accompanied by clotted cream, jam, and butter. This option is rustic and comforting. I think it would be brilliant for a cozy winter or fall wedding.

Irish Apple Cake

Everyone loves apple cake! This traditional Irish dessert features layers of spiced apples between moist cake layers, often served with a dollop of whipped cream or custard. It’s a delightful seasonal option for a wedding celebration.

Irish Dessert Shots

Who says dessert can’t be in a shot? Serve miniature dessert shots featuring Irish-inspired flavours such as Baileys Irish Cream, Jameson whiskey, or Irish coffee. These small treats are perfect for sampling different flavours and adding a fun element to the wedding dessert spread.

Trifle

Another idea is to create a stunning trifle featuring layers of sponge cake, custard, fruit, and whipped cream, perhaps infused with Irish whiskey for an extra kick. Trifles are visually appealing and can be customized to suit the couple’s preferences.

Cheese Tower

For a savory option, consider a tower of Irish cheeses accompanied by crackers, fruit, and chutneys. This unconventional choice is sure to delight cheese-loving guests and can serve as a unique centerpiece for the wedding dessert table.

From decadent desserts infused with Bailey’s Irish Cream to rustic scones and savory cheese towers, I hope this list of mouthwatering options inspires you. It’s sure to impress your guests! Need additional menu inspiration? Check out how to create an Irish wedding menu and elevate your wedding reception to a whole new level of Irish charm.

Slán go Fóill,

Tara

Images by Story of Eve and Anée Atelier

Top 5 Favourite Portugal Wedding Venues of 2024

by Harmony Walton

If you’re looking to celebrate your wedding at a destination less travelled, may I suggest Portugal? Portugal offers a variety of beautiful wedding venues, ranging from historic castles to scenic vineyards and coastal resorts. Over the past few years, I have planned a handful of weddings for some beautiful couples in Portugal and the country has left an indelible mark on my heart. Are you thinking of a destination wedding to Portugal? Here are my top 5 favourite Portugal wedding venues for 2024.

But quickly, before we get started…

Things to Know When Considering a Destination Wedding in Portugal

Here are some things to know when considering a destination wedding in Portugal. First, the same common restrictions for European destinations weddings apply. These restrictions include (but are not limited to) number of hours drivers can drive, size of vehicles allowed on certain roads, insurance for drones, fireworks, etc. Sound restrictions (volume, time allotted) apply in lots of venues and in some cases you are required to obtain music licenses. The good news? It’s my job to take care of all these details for you. I’m here to ensure your Portugal destination wedding is as stress free as possible.

With that, let’s dive in to my top 5 favourite Portugal venues!

Palácio Estoril Hotel Golf & Spa, Estoril

You can’t get more glamorous than Palácio Estoril Hotel on the Portuguese Riviera, known for its elegance and grandeur. It is a historic and luxurious five-star hotel located in Estoril, a coastal town on the Portuguese Riviera, just a short distance from Lisbon. The architecture of the Palácio Estoril Hotel reflects a blend of classical and Art Deco styles and the interiors showcase elegance and sophistication, with attention to historical details. The hotel is a popular venue for events and weddings, known for its grandeur, beautiful gardens and romantic ambiance. For your guests, the hotel offers a range of rooms and suites, each designed with a luxurious touch and modern amenities. Some rooms may feature views of the surrounding gardens or the Estoril coastline.

 

Quinta do Lago Resort, Almancil

Quinta do Lago is a popular destination for those seeking a high-end resort experience with access to golf, tennis, and other recreational activities. The resort is situated near the Ria Formosa Natural Park and offers a range of accommodations, from luxury villas to high-end hotels. The Magnolia Hotel, a boutique hotel touting retro-chic style and vibrant and colorful décor, as well as a relaxed and welcoming atmosphere is a brilliant place to host your guests. One of my favourite welcome dinners was held nearby at The Bold Octopus which is perched directly next to the Quinta do Lago.

 

 

Vila Joya, Albufeira

A boutique hotel with a Michelin-starred restaurant, Vila Joya offers an intimate and luxurious atmosphere for weddings. Because this resort is situated along the stunning coastline of the Algarve, it is known for its picturesque setting overlooking the Atlantic Ocean. For couples desiring high-end amenities and accommodations, Vila Joya can’t be beat. The hotel offers a limited number of exclusive and individually designed rooms and suites, providing a sense of intimacy and personalized luxury. And that Michelin-starred restaurant? The cuisine is characterized by a blend of Portuguese and international flavors, using fresh and locally sourced ingredients. And the gardens at this resort provide a beautiful backdrop for outdoor events.

 

 

Pousada de Óbidos, Óbidos

If beaches aren’t your thing, Pousada de Óbidos, a charming castle-turned-hotel, is located within the medieval walls of Óbidos, a well-preserved town known for its cobblestone streets, historic architecture, and vibrant atmosphere. The hotel is housed in a former medieval castle, adding to its historical charm. The building itself has been carefully restored to preserve its architectural heritage. When it comes to your ceremony, the Pousada offers views of the surrounding landscapes – a unique ambiance for those seeking a memorable location. Your guests can say in a range of comfortable and well-appointed rooms, each uniquely decorated to reflect the historical character of the property, and when it’s time to venture out, they’ll find the picturesque streets lined with shops, cafes, and artisan boutiques.

 

 

Six Senses Douro Valley, Lamego

A 19th-century manor and luxury resort in the heart of the Douro Valley, Six Senses Douro Valley is a located in a renowned wine-producing region in northern Portugal. Weddings at Six Senses are the epitome of elegance. Beyond hosting weddings with scenic backdrops that will take your breath away, there are a myriad of experiences your guests can participate in – hiking in the Duoro Valley, boat trips along the Duoro River, holistic treatments at the resort’s spa – and, of course, wine tasting and trips to explore nearby vineyards. Your guests will be pampered with a range of luxurious accommodations, including rooms, suites, and villas. The design of the accommodations incorporates a mix of contemporary comfort and local elements, providing a serene and elegant atmosphere.

One last note, civil ceremonies in Portugal are quite restricted, so many couples choose to have non-legal ceremonies in the country and choose to obtain a legal marriage license when they return to their home country.

I am more than happy to discuss all the ins-and-outs and possibilities of a destination wedding to the incredible country of Portugal. Or, any other European Destination Wedding for that matter! Let’s get in touch, shall we?

Slán go Fóill,

Tara

 

Images from Anée Atelier and the websites of Palácio Estoril Hotel, Vila Joya, Pousada de Óbidos and Six Senses Douro Valley