I always love planning an Adare Manor wedding, but from the start, I knew that Jane and Mark’s would be something special and unique. The couple met through mutual friends in Limerick and have lived in several countries since, but their love story always circled back to Ireland. When Mark proposed on a beach in Barbados at sunset, he’d already had the ring for eight months, just waiting for the perfect moment. That same care and thoughtfulness was reflected in their wedding planning. Instead of a standard wedding day, they dreamed of something deeply personal: an intimate ceremony and dinner on Friday with just close family, followed by a full-scale celebration for 350 guests on the Saturday. They wanted their wedding day to be about them and their reception to be all about their guests. The weekend was filled with warm sunshine, lush florals, fabulous food, and amazing entertainment. But most importantly, it was a mindful and meaningful start to their lives together.
Adare Manor is one of Ireland’s most iconic venues, but for Jane and Mark, it was more than just a beautiful location. Mark’s uncle owns the estate, so it was the perfect place to exchange vows, and the only venue they considered. From the fairytale manor house to the Michelin-starred dining and expansive French gardens, every inch of the property is pure magic. We used several of its most unique spaces across the weekend: the Oak Room terrace for the ceremony, the wine cellar for an intimate family dinner, and the Grand Ballroom and formal gardens for Saturday’s reception. Adare is a venue that can feel equally right for 16 guests or 350, and that’s exactly what Jane and Mark loved about it.
Jane and Mark saw their wedding ceremony as the most important part of the whole event. So on the first day of this Adare Manor wedding weekend, we focused on creating a setting for the vows that was worthy of the occasion. The glass-enclosed terrace of the Oak Room, with its stone colonnade overlooking the gardens, was filled with greenery and florals. The bride said that entering the space was like walking into a fairytale. After the couple promised forever in a handfasting ceremony, the families moved on to the cellar for a candlelit dinner. This space is usually used for wine tastings and with flowers and white votive candles adorning the marble-topped table, it was really intimate and atmospheric. With such a small guest list, it was all about connection, conversation, and savouring each moment – and every delicious course!
With the formalities complete, the next day was time to party! Guests were welcomed with live music from the New Brass Kings and Dublin Gospel Choir, clouds of greenery and baby’s breath, and a selection of food and drink stations. Tables, settees and pretty umbrellas dotted the geometric parterre gardens, while guests enjoyed cocktails in the sunshine.
Inside the manor house, the ballroom had been transformed into a dream scene with crystal chandeliers, white florals, and lush greenery. The musical lineup alone would rival a concert: Carly Coonagh Quartet, The Legends, The New Atlantics, and DJ Gordo. Jane wore a strapless lace midi dress and danced the night away with her groom and guests.
What made this Adare Manor wedding weekend so special was the way Jane and Mark honoured both ends of the scale: quiet, private moments alongside a large celebration. It’s a reminder that you can do both, beautifully. For couples considering something similar, I’d advise you to approach each day as its own event with its own feeling. It’s all about layering experiences for your guests. And don’t be afraid to use all the spaces your venue offers – for example, the contrast between the candlelit cellar and the soaring ballroom made each of these moments more memorable.
It was a joy to plan Jane and Mark’s wedding. Wishing them a lifetime of unforgettable celebrations!
Slán go Fóill,
Tara
Planner: Tara Fay Events | Venue: Adare Manor | Photography: John Cain Photography | Bridal Gowns: The Attic Bridal Boutique, Limerick | Ceremony Dress: Elbeth Gillis | Reception Dress: Alena Leena | Groom’s Suits: Louis Copeland & Sons, | Design: Silverthorn Productions | Florals: Harris & Wilkinson | Stationery: Grosvenor Stationery | Set, Stage & Lighting: Gorilla Design | Technical Production: KCLS | Marquee: Eventus | Stretch Tent: Extreme Structures | Rentals – Linens, Furniture & Bar: Total Event | Rentals: Caterhire – Limerick | Additional Furniture: Select Hire | Photo Parlour: Beatrice & Bertrum | Video: Odicci | Ceremony Music: Síbeal Ní Chasaide | Arrival Music: The Carly Coonagh Quartet | Brass Band: New Brass Kings | Choir: Dublin Gospel Choir | Band – The Legends: ALR Music | Band – New Atlantics: ALR Music | Piano: Maurice Culligan | DJ & Sax: Gordo | Cake: MM Cookies | Guest Transport: Leatours | Bridal Party – Hair & Makeup: FMN Bridal | Guest Hair & Makeup: Mandy O’Loughlin
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