When Gregory and Manpreet (or Greg and Manny, as their friends call them) reached out to plan their Dromoland Castle wedding, I knew it was going to be something truly special. The couple wanted a celebration that honoured their combined Irish, Indian, and Italian roots in ways that were as fun as they were meaningful. The result was an unforgettable fusion of cultures, rich in colour, laughter, and love. Manny was keen to focus on the florals and décor, while Greg quietly plotted some incredible surprises, including a first dance by the lake surrounded by 1200 candles and fireworks – a moment none of us will ever forget!
Dromoland Castle was the ideal location for this destination wedding. It was only the second venue the couple viewed, but it ticked every box: easy access for international guests, rolling Irish landscapes, and a grand yet welcoming atmosphere. This 16th-century castle in Co. Clare was originally the seat of the descendants of one of the last High Kings of Ireland, but is now a luxury hotel that has a huge amount of versatility when it comes to the spaces available. Manny and Greg’s ceremony took place in the romantic walled garden, while the dinner reception took place beneath the vaulted ceilings of the magnificent Brian Ború Hall.
The ceremony started later in the day so the couple could enjoy a relaxed morning with their closest friends. By 4pm, the castle grounds were buzzing with excitement, as Manny entered the flower-filled marquee in her stunning off-the-shoulder lace Zuhair Murad gown and walked down the aisle to her waiting groom. After vows were exchanged, bride and groom joined their guests for canapes and cocktails, served from an Amalfi-themed bar as a nod to the location where Greg popped the question. Then we unveiled the first of Greg’s surprises, as traditional Indian Dohl drummers led the procession to the reception.
As the night went on, guests were treated to more multicultural elements, from bagpipes and traditional Irish dancers and drummers to a spirited singsong of ‘Bella Ciao’ led by the groom’s father. The table décor also referenced both Indian and Italian culture. Ribbons fluttered from chandeliers, reminiscent of Torans, while floral arrangements in red and orange included both marigolds (auspicious in Indian culture) and cherry tomatoes. The menu was also a feast of Italian classics, and the cake was a traditional Millefoglie.
One of my favourite moments was the first dance, which Greg and I had kept completely under wraps until the big moment. On the grass close to the lake, Greg led Manny into a scene straight out of a movie. They were surrounded by 1200 candles, as a talented friend sang for them and they danced their first dance together as man and wife. Just as their bridal party joined in, fireworks lit up the sky from a pontoon on the lake. It was emotional, theatrical, and deeply personal – the kind of moment that gives you goosebumps.
The morning after the wedding, guests were invited back for a laid-back Italian-inspired brunch on the castle grounds. We set up a spritz bar as a nod to their Sorrento engagement, with Aperol and citrus flowing freely. For their entrance, the couple had one last surprise up their sleeves: a moving acapella rendition of “In This Heart” (originally sung by Sinead O’Connor), performed by a young Irish doctor and singer I’d heard years ago and kept in my back pocket for the perfect moment. Later, Greg also surprised Manny with a solo performance of the Irish ballad “Grace,” and there wasn’t a dry eye in the house.It was a beautiful way to round off a weekend full of family, tradition, and heart.
It was such a pleasure to plan Greg and Manny’s Dromoland Castle wedding. Wishing them a lifetime of magical moments, meaningful surprises, and spritzes in the sunshine!
Slán go fóill,
Tara
Planning & Design: Tara Fay Events | Venue: Dromoland Castle | Photography: Cinzia Bruschini | Video: Matteo Crescentini | Bridal Gowns: Zuhair Murad, Pronovias | Groom’s Attire: Tom Ford | Ceremony Singer: Síbeal | Hair: Adem Oygur | Makeup: Natalie Vella | Welcome Party Music: D Strings | Piano: Peter Devine | DJ: Gordo | Florals: The Garden | Lighting & Stage: Gorilla Design | Calligraphy & Stationery: Sarah O’Dea | Day 2 Band: Sin a Deir Si | Cake: Dromoland Castle | Dancers and Drummers: The Hit Machine | Fireworks: Pains Fireworks | Marquee: Eventus Marquees | Rentals – Furniture: Caterhire Limerick | Rentals – Linens: Total Event Rental
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