Aimee & Adam’s Ashford Castle Wedding

Long before Aimee and Adam shared their first dance as husband and wife during their enchanting Ashford Castle wedding, they were teenagers meeting for the first time at Theatre Club in Dublin. The two playfully competed over who was more flexible (Aimee won) and an instant friendship blossomed, followed by romance, when the two began dating a couple years later. From there, Aimee and Adam navigated life: college, new jobs, new friends, their “dog child”, and travelling the world. They grew up together; it only made sense to grow old together, too.

So, at a view point between Adam’s family cabin and Ashford Castle in County Mayo, overlooking Lough Na Fooey, Adam caught Aimee off guard when he asked a very important question. After 11 years together, Adam and Aimee were finally engaged and they knew exactly where they wanted to host their big day.

In the 1960’s, Adam’s grandfather bought a cottage in Joyce Country for his family to spend some time away from the city. Adam’s fondest childhood memories centre around the cottage, and when Aimee was introduced to the area she fell in love with the beauty of County Mayo and was thrilled to learn she had family connections there, as well! “Ashford Castle represents the history and beauty of this area,” says Aimee. “It was an easy decision to get married in this stunning venue.” And just like that, the date was chosen, the invites were sent, and shortly after, the day arrived!

One of Aimee’s favourite memories of the day was eating breakfast, relaxing and getting ready with her girls before the ceremony. It was a special time of bonding and toasting the day to come. When it was time to get ready, each bridesmaid wore a dress from Covet.

Yet another easy decision was the time of year the couple wanted to say their vows. “Autumn is our favourite time of year,” says Aimee. Flowers in every autumnal colour adorned the wedding, bridesmaids wore gorgeous dresses to match their bouquets, and the entrance to the ceremony was even decorated with fall foliage and gourds.

 

As the ceremony grew closer, Aimee was ready. “I wasn’t nervous at all. I knew everything was being taken care of,” Aimee says. “Tara was able to get to know our personalities, our likes and dislikes, our values… and produce a wedding that was even better than our wildest dreams.” At St Mary’s Church, an historic church just off the castle grounds, guests were gathering and preparing for Adam and Aimee’s walks down the aisle.

One of Adam’s favourite memories from the day was watching Aimee walk down the aisle. His second favourite memory was their first dance.

The groom and groomsmen got their suits from Louis Copeland & Sons. Inside each suit, Adam and Aimee had created personalised designs to match each groomsmen. Inside Adam’s suit were bikes to represent his love of cycling.

With the ceremony complete, Aimee and Adam moved on to the reception where they were a special surprise was in store. “A friend of the family surprised us with waiters who transformed into opera singers midway through dinner,” says Aimee. “We were so shocked, but it was absolutely brilliant and amazing to be surprised at your own wedding!”

Boasting a surprise of their own, each guest found a personalised picture and note waiting for them at their seat in The George V Dining Room. “Watching them find and seeing their reactions was really special,” says Aimee.

 

With two full time jobs and the inability to spend every extra moment planning a wedding, Aimee and Adam say they knew from the start they wanted to hire a wedding planner. “Wedding planning is such a daunting task, without a planner we wouldn’t have known where to start,” says Aimee. “Our wedding day was one of the most important days in not only our lives, but the lives of our immediate families and we wanted it to be the best it could possibly be for everyone involved.”

Something that warms this planner’s heart? Aimee and Adam say there is nothing they would have done differently. “From going on a run to shake off the nerves first thing in the morning, to bringing our dog with us, to hiring the most incredible vendors,” says Aimee, “There is nothing we wouldn’t do exactly as we did it.”

From the incredibly grounds of Ashford Castle to the reception surprises to the very special love between Adam and Aimee, this won’t be a wedding I soon forget. I was honoured to plan such a special day and wish you two the very best of luck in life (and on your honeymoon in Kenya and the Seychelles)!

Enchanted as I am by this incredible event at Ashford Castle? Learn everything you need to know here: Ashford Castle Wedding Venue: A Complete Guide

Slán go Fóill,

Tara

Event Planner: Tara Fay | Venue: Ashford Castle |  Photography: Peter Carvill Photography| Videography: Dream Catcher Productions| Invitations: Sarah O’Dea | Groomswear: Louis Copeland | Bridesmaid Dresses: Covet | Bridal Makeup: Ashley O’Rourke | Bridal Hair: David Cashman | Flowers: Shop the Garden | DJ: Tommy Elliott | Wedding String Ensemble: D-Strings |

The Warming of the Ring Ceremony

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

Pantone Colour of the Year: 2024 Wedding Ideas

Pantone has selected the colour of 2024 and they’ve gone with warmth for the new year. Pantone 13-1024, also known as Peach Fuzz, is a gentle mix of oranges and pinks that creates a warm peach tone. There are a thousand ways to incorporate the colour into your big day, but here are a few ideas on how to use the Pantone colour of the year in your wedding décor.

Florals and Lighting

Florals are always a great way to add pops of colour into your wedding day and lighting just enhances every tone. You can opt for an all peach fuzz bouquet like the one above or mix in a few subtle whites and greens to make the colour really stand out.

A touch of this orange-pink hue also makes for a great floral centrepiece. Couple these stunning displays with warm lighting, or even a gently tinted light to enhance the colour, and your venue is sure to wow!

Table Runners

A table runner can be any texture you desire, and it is a perfect way to weave the colour of the year into the details of your big day. Whether you opt for silk, satin, cotton, or any other fabric, peach fuzz is going to be an easy find in the new year.

Take your décor one step further with a table runner made completely of florals!

Bridal Party Attire

We can’t talk about colour without addressing bridal party attire! One of the most essential pieces of designing your dream day is the bridal party, and the most important people in a bride’s life will be front and centre with her throughout the ceremony.

Nothing will say “the colour of the day is peach fuzz” quite like a bridal party all adorned in the gentle tone. It may be easiest to purchase the same outfit for every bridesmaid to keep the colour cohesive, but if you want to have different designs make sure to start with one and colour match from there.

Embroidered Linens

Want to include the colour of 2024 in a subtle way or even in the smallest details of the day? Embroidered linens are a great touch if you’re looking for subtle, or even if you want to have the colour included in the little pieces of décor.

Tip: Choose a base colour like white or off-white and have the embroidery done in Pantone 13-1024 for an elegant look.

Candles and Cakes

Another centrepiece of any wedding décor is the cake, and with it, the candles across the tables. One way to include the warm peach tone is like in the cake above, having a one-tone cake with texture as the accent to make it pop.

If you aren’t fond of the one-tone approach, you can choose a base colour to act as the main hue of the cake and opt for peachy florals or other decorations to make the dessert pop.

Whether you go all in with the Pantone colour of the year, or opt to have it as a secondary accent tone for your big day, the results are bound to be stunning. I personally can’t wait to continue to use the gorgeous warm colour in the 2024 wedding season!

Slán go Fóill,

Tara

Images by Unikeye, Ivana Patarcic, and Studio Brown

Unforgettable Ways to Celebrate St. Patrick’s Day on Your Wedding

Embracing the spirit of St. Patrick’s Day on your wedding day is a charming and unique way to infuse a touch of Irish magic into your celebration of love. Whether you have Irish roots or simply appreciate the festive atmosphere, here are some delightful ways to celebrate St. Patrick’s Day on your wedding day.

Wear a Touch of Green

Start the celebration by incorporating green into your wedding attire. A subtle green sash, tie, or even emerald accessories for the bride and groom can add a touch of Irish charm without overpowering the overall aesthetic.

Lucky Charms for the Bouquet

Attach a small, meaningful Irish charm to your wedding bouquet for an extra dash of luck. Symbols like the shamrock, horseshoe, or Claddagh ring can serve as beautiful and sentimental accents. Click here for a little guide to lucky symbols at Irish weddings!

Irish Folk Music

Set the mood with a live band or playlist featuring traditional Irish folk music. The sounds of fiddles, tin whistles, and bodhráns will transport your guests to the Emerald Isle and create an upbeat atmosphere for dancing.

Traditional Irish Musicians
Engage Ireland at Adare Manor

 

Irish-Inspired Cuisine

Give a nod to Irish cuisine in your wedding menu. Consider including traditional dishes like Irish stew, soda bread, or even a playful twist with green-themed desserts. Your guests will appreciate the culinary journey and the festive flavours.

Irish Toasts

Incorporate Irish toasts into your wedding speeches. Raise a glass to love, luck, and laughter with a heartfelt Irish blessing. It’s a meaningful way to connect with the cultural richness of St. Patrick’s Day.

Whiskey Tasting Station

Create a whiskey tasting station for your guests to enjoy during the reception. Include a selection of Irish whiskeys and provide tasting notes. This interactive element adds a sophisticated touch and pays homage to Ireland’s rich whiskey heritage.

Celtic Knots

Symbolize the intertwining of your lives with Celtic knot decorations. Whether incorporated into the wedding invitations, cake design, or table settings, the intricate and timeless knots represent eternal love and unity.

Irish Dance Performance

Surprise and delight your guests with an Irish dance performance. Professional dancers or even a dance troupe can provide a lively and entertaining show, making your wedding celebration truly unforgettable.

Green Wedding Favours

Send your guests home with a little piece of Ireland by choosing green-themed wedding favours. Consider personalized shamrock keychains, Irish-themed candles, or even miniature bottles of Irish whiskey.

Gift bags for guests
Crisps and afters

Photo Booth Fun

Set up a St. Patrick’s Day-themed photo booth complete with props like shamrocks and and Irish flags. Encourage your guests to snap pictures to create lasting memories.

By infusing these St. Patrick’s Day elements into your wedding celebration, you’ll create a day filled with luck, love, and laughter. May your marriage be as joyful and enduring as the Irish spirit that inspires this delightful celebration! Sláinte to a lifetime of happiness!

Slán go Fóill,

Tara

Images by Story of Eve , Arte de Vie, Carla Ten Eyck  Christina Brosnan and Eric Kelley

Museum of Literature: A Complete Venue Guide

About the Museum of Literature (MoLI)

When I speak to couples who imagine their wedding in an an intimate and opulent setting, surrounded by rich history and literary legends, I tell them the Museum of Literature Ireland (also known as the MoLI) is the venue for them. Couples who appreciate this city’s love of literature know that MoLI is the perfect wedding setting. Just traverse through Dublin and you’ll find a myriad of bookshops,  historic libraries, literary plaques and statues. Some of the world’s most famous writers called Dublin home.

Founded in 2019 and encapsulated in Numbers 85 and 86 of St Stephen’s Green, these two buildings have also served as a university, a museum, and the townhouse of one of Ireland’s most infamous playboys and adventurers – Buck Whaley. MoLI is designed to be a dynamic and immersive museum that explores and celebrates Irish literature, from its rich history to contemporary contributions. The museum aims to engage visitors of all ages and backgrounds in the world of Irish writing and literary creativity.

Couples who choose the Museum of Literature Ireland have access to the gardens outside, including the beautiful Iveagh Gardens, which were originally owned by the Guinness family. The Iveagh house is located just a few doors down from the MoLI.

A relatively new addition to the cultural scene in downtown Dublin, it is a dedicated museum that celebrates the rich literary heritage of Ireland and its literary luminaries. MoLI is a partnership between University College Dublin and the National Library of Ireland. Inside the hidden historic rooms of the MoLI, you will find yourself encompassed by Georgian lavishness and you and your guests will join the ranks of all the fascinating characters that have passed through over the centuries.

Why I Love Planning Weddings at MoLI

Intimate weddings at MoLI are a joy to plan. It is stylish and elegant and offers opportunities for celebration both inside and out. I relish creating an atmosphere of exclusivity for you and your cherished friends and family to focus on the moment at hand. The couple who chooses to wed at The Museum of Literature Ireland likely prefers to be surrounded by their closest loved ones, desires a more private event, and revels in the historical and literary significance of a venue like MoLI. Fun Fact: The nickname “MoLI” hints to James Joyce’s heroine in Ulysses: Molly Bloom.)

Museum of Literature Ireland wedding groom

This means their wedding will include a special entrance reserved only for guests at No. 85 St. Stephen’s Green where your ceremony will be held. When the “I Do’s” are finished, everyone can retire to the adjoining Saloon for a lavish cocktail hour. Wedding photos can be staged in Dublin’s famous Iveagh Gardens or in the Reader’s Garden, which has its own access. Private dining options are available upon request.

MoLI Ceremony and Reception Spaces

The Readers Garden

Newly landscaped, the Courtyard and Readers Garden are meant to be a place of peace and enjoyment. A quiet space for learning and reading. They are famous for two protected trees, one being the ash tree that James Joyce had his graduation picture taken against. The other is a Killarney Strawberry tree. (James Joyce is pictured below, second from left, graduating at UCD Newman House in 1902.)

Iveagh Gardens

Commonly known as Ireland’s “secret garden”, Iveagh Gardens is a stunning green space located just behind The Reader’s Garden. A public park with humble beginnings, the Gardens were started in 1756 under the title of “Clonmell Lawns”. In 1939, the space was offered to the chancellor of University College Dublin as a “gift to the nation”. The garden features a large sunken lawn, a pond, a boating tower, a cascading waterfall that flows over rocks from each of Ireland’s 32 counties, and a maze that is a miniature copy of London’s Hampton Court Maze.

literary Dublin destination wedding inspiration

Iveagh Gardens are a beautiful place, surrounded by buildings, and located close to the Museum. Iveagh Gardens are a little harder to find but so worth the effort! They are dedicated to Irish novelist, Maeve Binchy, providing yet another literary link. And, while weddings are not currently permitted there, couples can obtain a permit to use it as a location for wedding photos. I encourage romantic and literary couples to incorporate small nods to their favourite stories into their wedding design and photography. If you need a little help visualizing what this kind of theme could be, read my post: Literary Wedding Inspiration for a Romantic Dublin Destination Wedding.

Commons Café

Commons Cafe is a stunning space with a modern design. Built in the original student dining hall of the University College Dublin, this venue has long been the setting for the gathering of close friends. In fact, the poet Gerard Manley Hopkins lived here during his time as Professor of Classics at the university, and James Joyce was a student here before graduating with a BA in 1902. Other famous Irish writers to have studied at UCD Newman House include Flann O’Brien, Kate O’Brien and Maeve Binchy.

Led by sisters Domini and Peaches Kemp, Commons Cafe prioritizes Ireland’s fresh produce and culinary heritage. Set in the original student dining halls of UCD Newman House, the Commons has long been a space for sharing food and ideas amongst friends. Couples fall in love with the original artwork and curated culinary quotes. For events, the cafe opens out onto the Courtyard Garden, creating a masterful blend of indoor and outdoor spaces.

Newman House

Newman House, where MoLi is located, is a magnificent historic space. With its marble floors, Cuban mahogany staircase, and lavishly-detailed plasterwork, it is a unique Dublin wedding venue. To do it justice, one might follow cues from this styled shoot I produced.

The table design featured earthy tones and rich, dark ones, with luxe details like custom calligraphy layered with simple household items to play out the juxtaposition of the blue and green palette. Aged wooden farm tables were chosen to bring character, balanced with delicate natural greenery, in the form of ferns and succulents. Layers of dots and petal-like patterns at each place setting modernised the rustic setting, while votives in copper glass holders and emerald green taper candles created an intimate, elegant feel.

Old Physics Theatre

The Old Physics Theatre is bursting with timeless style. The ballroom, decorated in neo-Gothic décor, features handmade wallpaper, beautiful high-arched windows, and an impressive chandelier. The entire room has an ethereal golden glow. It’s a wonderful option for an intimate wedding in Dublin, with space for private dining for up to 60 people. It also made a gorgeous backdrop for this photo shoot: Contemporary Vintage Bridal Style at the Museum of Literature Ireland Wedding Venue, which combined vintage sensibility and retro flair with modern romance!

Museum of Literature Ireland wedding table décor

Experiences and Events Nearby

For those that plan on spending some time in the city, Dublin offers a wealth of popular tourist attractions for visitors to explore. The city is also known for its lively pub culture, scenic parks, and welcoming atmosphere, making it a great destination for travelers interested in history, culture, and entertainment. Here are some of the most well-known and highly recommended attractions in the city:

Keeping it within a 15-min walking distance, you and your guests can explore St. Patrick’s Cathedral. One of the largest Gothic cathedrals in Ireland and steeped in history, visitors admire its magnificent architecture and explore the beautiful gardens. The National Museum of Ireland is home to several branches of the National Museum, each focusing on different aspects of Irish culture and history. The Archaeology Museum, Natural History Museum, and Decorative Arts and History Museum are all worth exploring. Art enthusiasts can appreciate the extensive collection of European and Irish art at the National Gallery, which includes works by renowned artists such as Caravaggio and Jack B. Yeats. Lastly, Trinity College is Ireland’s oldest university, and it houses the world-renowned Book of Kells, a beautifully illuminated manuscript. Visitors can also explore the historic campus and the Long Room library.

Just a bit farther, Dublinia offers an engaging look into Dublin’s Viking and medieval history with interactive displays and reconstructions of historical scenes. Dublin Castle has played a pivotal role in Irish history and is known for its stunning architecture. You can tour the State Apartments, the Chapel Royal, and the Dubhlinn Gardens. Lastly, the iconic Temple Bar. Dublin’s cultural quarter is known for its vibrant atmosphere, featuring numerous bars, restaurants, galleries, and street art. It’s a hub for nightlife, entertainment, and the arts.

To stay within a literary theme, there are a handful of writer-focused locations to be sure to see. This includes The Dublin Writers Museum (featuring exhibits and memorabilia related to Ireland’s literary greats), The James Joyce Centre (exhibitions, lectures and walking tours dedicated to the life and works of Joyce), The W.B. Yeats Exhibition (celebrates the life of the poet and is located in the National Library of Ireland in Dublin), and The Oscar Wilde House (showcases the famous playwright’s life, works and contributions to literature and culture).

Jump on a bus and you can visit Kilmainham Gaol. A former prison turned museum, Kilmainham Gaol provides insights into Ireland’s turbulent history, particularly during the struggle for independence. It’s a significant historical site. While you’re on that side of town, locate Phoenix Park and visit the Dublin Zoo. It’s a popular family attraction with a wide variety of animals from around the world. It offers a fun and educational experience for visitors of all ages.

MoLI Location

Centrally located in the heart of Dublin, on the south side of St. Stephen’s Green, there are many methods of travel to get to the MoLI. Once in Dublin however, your guests can use other city centre landmarks to find their way. MoLI is about 10 minutes’ walk from Merrion Square, the National Gallery of Ireland, the National Museum, Dáil Éireann and Trinity College.

I like to remind my couples that there are areas of the MoLI that are not wheelchair accessible. If you intend on inviting a guest that will need additional mobility requirements, the MoLI is able to assist them in accessing the building. However, there are many other available areas at the MoLI that do not require additional assistance for those with limited mobility.

Let’s Plan a Wedding at MoLI

Planning intimate weddings at MoLI is a delightful experience. The venue exudes style and elegance, providing ample opportunities for celebration both indoors and outdoors. My aim is to create an atmosphere of exclusivity, so that you and your cherished friends and family can focus on the moment at hand. If you’re eager to tie the knot at The Museum of Literature Ireland, don’t hesitate to reach out!

Museum of Literature Ireland Venue at a Glance

Address: UCD Naughton Joyce Centre, 86 St Stephen’s Green, Dublin 2

Phone: +353 1 716 5900

Email: hello@moli.ie

Website: https://moli.ie/

Capacity: 60 guests

Slán go Fóill,

Tara

Images by Story of Eve, Heritage Ireland and the Museum of Literature Ireland website

Destination Wedding Trends for 2024

One of the beautiful things about life is that it’s always changing. It makes sense that love and weddings are ever-evolving, too. Here are some 2024 destination wedding trends to consider as you begin your planning adventure:

Unplugged Weddings

While this isn’t a new idea, it’s gaining popularity year by year. Some guests might struggle with unplugging from their ever-present electronic devices, but if you make it a wedding rule, you’ll find that most will thank you for the break from reality by the end of the event. Without distractions, your guests can truly spend some intentional time with one another. When you ask guests to disconnect from their devices during the ceremony, it encourages a more present and intimate experience. Plus, you don’t have to worry about the incredibly awkward moment of a ringing phone in the middle of your vows!

Virtual Elements

It might sound like I’m contradicting myself with the last point, but with the rise of virtual weddings during the pandemic, lots of couples have continued to incorporate virtual elements into their destination weddings for guests who can’t attend in person. Being able to attend in real-time, even though they are miles (or countries) away, will mean so much to your loved ones. Plus, with the ability to record and live-stream each precious moment, this reduces your guests’ compulsion to grab their devices and record for you. It also reduces the amount of cell phones inelegantly held overhead during the ceremony.

Eco-Friendly Weddings & Cultural Experiences

Sustainability and eco-consciousness have been on the rise in the wedding industry. Couples are choosing eco-friendly destination wedding locations, minimizing waste, and opting for sustainable décor and practices. They have also become much more culturally aware. Couples have been going out of their way to incorporate the customs of local culture into their wedding, including cuisine, music, and traditions. Here are some unique ways to incorporate cultural aspects and Make Your Irish Destination Wedding Stand Out.

Unique Locations & Intimate Gatherings

Couples are looking beyond traditional wedding locations and seeking unique, off-the-beaten-path destinations for their weddings. This might include mountains, forests, historical landmarks, or (may I suggest) beautiful historic Irish castles? With locations becoming more remote, we’ve seen another trend sprout forth – smaller, more intimate gatherings. Couples are often opting for quality time with a select group of loved ones rather than hosting large affairs. Pared-down events might also allow couples to invite their guests to spend more days or attend more activities.

Multi-Day Celebrations

That being said, some couples are extending their destination wedding festivities over several days, allowing for more relaxed and meaningful interactions with their guests. Knowing there are extra days to spend celebrating means more time for conversation with family and friends. It also means more time for adventures – like hiking, hot air ballooning, boating or falconry! Yep. Falconry.

As trends vary from year to year, you can depend on your wedding planner to keep you in the loop on factors like culture, economy and current events (especially if you plan on having your destination wedding in Ireland or any other country). One thing that never changes, though, are that weddings will always be about celebrating love and bringing friends and family together for the most important moment of your lives. That’s something we can always rely on.

Slán go Fóill,

Tara

Images collected from Story of Eve