fall wedding Archives | Tara Fay Events

As a luxury wedding planner in Ireland, I’ve seen my fair share of trends come and go (and I talk about some of my favourites in this article on PopSugar), but one that has taken hold in recent years is the delightful and unexpected trend of using cheese as a wedding cake. This indulgent alternative to the traditional sweet cake is perfect for couples who want to offer something unique and memorable at their wedding reception. With the rise of farm-to-table dining and a renewed appreciation for artisanal Irish produce, cheese towers have become a symbol of luxury, sophistication, and a celebration of Ireland’s rich culinary heritage.

A Bespoke Culinary Experience

What makes a cheese wedding cake so alluring is its ability to offer a completely bespoke experience. Unlike traditional cakes, where you may be limited by flavour profiles and decoration, a cheese tower allows for endless customisation. As a planner, I work closely with artisan cheese suppliers to curate a selection that reflects not only the couple’s taste preferences but also their story.

Many Irish couples enjoy incorporating local cheeses into their tower, paying homage to Ireland’s world-renowned dairy industry. A typical tower might feature rich Cashel Blue from Tipperary, a smooth and creamy St Tola goat’s cheese from County Clare, and a strong, crumbly Cahill’s Porter cheese, which adds both flavour and visual intrigue with its marbled appearance. For couples wishing to indulge their guests further, I recommend adding imported cheeses to complement the Irish offerings—perhaps a delicate French Brie or a robust Manchego.

Designing the Perfect Cheese Cake

Just like a traditional wedding cake, a cheese cake can be a showstopping centrepiece. As a luxury wedding planner, my role is to ensure that the cheese tower is not only delicious but also visually stunning. Each cheese wheel is carefully chosen for its shape, colour, and texture, crafting a tiered masterpiece that rivals any confection. Garnishing the cheese tower with fresh fruits, figs, berries, and even edible flowers can add vibrant splashes of colour, while rustic elements like fresh herbs or leaves provide a natural, organic feel.

For couples desiring an extra touch of opulence, I often suggest pairing the cheese tower with artisanal breads, crackers, and a selection of chutneys and honey. A beautifully designed grazing table featuring these accompaniments, along with cured meats and pâté, creates an interactive dining experience where guests can serve themselves throughout the evening.

A Unique Take on Tradition

One of the most appealing aspects of a cheese wedding cake is its ability to turn tradition on its head without sacrificing elegance. Many couples like to keep the ceremonial cutting of the cake, but instead of the classic sweet slice, they slice into a large wheel of cheese. This can be a fun and memorable moment for the couple, and it invites guests to partake in a one-of-a-kind culinary experience. As an alternative, I often suggest serving the cheese cake alongside a more traditional dessert table, offering both sweet and savoury options to guests.

Pairing the Cheese Cake with Wine

A cheese wedding cake is more than just a savoury treat; it can also become an integral part of a couple’s overall dining experience. As part of my planning services, I often collaborate with expert sommeliers to pair each tier of the cheese cake with wines that enhance and complement the flavours. Whether it’s a crisp Sauvignon Blanc to cut through the richness of a Brie or a full-bodied Bordeaux to pair with a mature cheddar, these pairings can elevate the dining experience and add another layer of luxury.

The Perfect Ending to a Wedding Feast

In Ireland, where the landscape lends itself to exceptional dairy produce, a cheese wedding cake is the perfect way to honour local craftsmanship while adding a luxurious twist to a couple’s big day. Whether used as a savoury centrepiece or incorporated into an elaborate grazing table, this trend is a testament to how versatile and sophisticated Irish weddings can be.

Slán go Fóill,

Tara

Images by Brosnan Photographic and Aspect Photography

When planning an autumn wedding in Ireland during the crisp and vibrant season of fall, couples have the opportunity to immerse themselves in a tapestry of natural beauty and cultural richness. From the stunning landscapes adorned with autumnal hues to the warm hospitality deeply rooted in Irish tradition, every aspect of a fall wedding in Ireland carries a hallmark touch of charm and elegance.

Scenic Irish Splendor

Ireland’s landscapes transform into a breathtaking canvas of colors during the fall season. Imagine exchanging vows amidst rolling hills painted in shades of amber, crimson, and gold, or beneath the canopy of ancient trees. The romantic backdrop of Irish countryside or historic castles enveloped in fall foliage creates a picturesque setting that is both enchanting and timeless.

Seasonal Irish Delights

Irish cuisine shines during the fall, featuring hearty dishes that showcase the bounty of the season – like traditional Irish stews made with locally sourced ingredients to delectable desserts infused with autumn flavors like apple, cinnamon, and pumpkin. Pairing these dishes with locally brewed craft beers or a warming Irish whiskey adds a touch of authenticity and indulgence to the wedding festivities.

Cosy Autumn Atmosphere

As the weather begins to cool, fall weddings in Ireland offer the perfect opportunity to embrace a cosy and intimate atmosphere. Picture guests gathered around crackling fireplaces in charming country manors or rustic venues adorned with flickering candles and seasonal décor. The ambiance of a fall wedding exudes warmth and comfort, inviting loved ones to celebrate amidst a setting that feels like a welcoming embrace.

Cultural Wedding Traditions

Ireland’s rich cultural heritage offers couples a myriad of traditions to incorporate into their fall wedding celebrations. From Celtic blessings and traditional music performed on fiddles and harps to incorporating symbols like Claddagh rings or handfasting ceremonies, these cultural elements add depth and significance to the union, honoring both Irish heritage and the couple’s personal journey.

Weathered Romance of Autumn

Autumn in Ireland is synonymous with a sense of romance that is deeply rooted in the country’s history and folklore. The misty mornings, dramatic skies, and fleeting moments of sunlight filtering through the clouds create an ethereal backdrop that enhances the romantic ambiance of a wedding day. Whether capturing candid moments amidst a gentle rain shower or basking in the soft glow of a sunset over the Atlantic coast, the weathered beauty of an autumn wedding in Ireland is sure to add a poetic touch to your memories.

I might be biased, but I believe an autumn wedding in Ireland is not just an event; it is a journey through time and nature, blending the beauty of the season with the timeless allure of Irish culture. Every detail resonates with a sense of enchantment that makes it truly unforgettable. (Need a real wedding example? Check out Aimee and Shane’s autumn wedding.) Couples choosing to exchange vows during this magical season are sure to create cherished memories that reflect the hallmark touches of fall in Ireland’s romantic embrace.