Tip Top Honeymoon Destinations!!

Pin It Now!

Planning a wedding is full of making big decisions, often expensive decisions so you always want to make sure that you have chosen the right thing to do! So when it is all over and done with and you hit the post wedding anti-climax phase, couples really need to have planned a honeymoon of their dreams to keep that rush of adrenaline and sheer happiness going to start their life officially as a married couple.

 

So I took to researching the top places that honeymooners frequent bearing in mind some couples don’t want to sit on a beach and relax for two weeks, some want to make an adventure out of their holiday! I’m going to talk about three relaxing holidays and three more ‘get up and go’ type holidays. Here are my discoveries….reading this will make you want to go abroad and see the world, trust me!

 

Sugar Beach, a Viceroy Resort, St. Lucia, the Caribbean

 

This little gem kept cropping up everywhere I was looking and undoubtedly for a reason! This is UNESCO territory and the resort lies among 100 acres of luscious rainforest. The villas are dotted on the hillside overlooking the stunning golden sands between the Piton Peaks. The Rainforest Spa is located here with tree house treatment rooms!

 

There are a few options for your accommodation from villas between the peaks to beachside bungalows or rooms in the residences themselves. This luxurious destination prides itself in relaxing, mood enhancing and gorgeous décor. With top quality restaurant, bars and lounges on site you have everything you need right on your doorstep.

 

Some things just to bear in mind for this Caribbean island is that rainy season runs from June to December, hurricane season from June to November, these are conditions that you may not desire and high season is from December to April so prices could be higher.

 

 

 

 

 

The Maldives, The Indian Ocean

 

 

For sheer relaxation in utter paradise, the Maldives boast tranquil and picturesque settings that allow your romance to further blossom. The Maldives are compromised of a thousand islands grouped together in clear blue crystal water with white sand beaches and that tropical island feel and atmosphere. Picture yourselves lying on a beach lounger, cocktail in hand, warm air and the sound of the little waves hitting the beach, this is what you will find here!

 

There are plenty of things to do on the islands as well as taking it easy on a beach. With coral reefs that will blow you away, there are options to go snorkelling and scuba diving with some of the best schools in the world.

 

Best time of the year to visit the Maldives is between December and April; you will be guaranteed more sunshine then although it is comfortably warm all year round.

 

 

Greek Island Hopping, Greece

Yet another true place of utter paradise located much closer to Ireland than other destinations but has just as much beauty, scenery and romantic qualities as its competitors further afield! The beauty of honeymooning in the Greek Islands is that you are going to want to ‘hop’ literally from one island to the next. So you can obviously relax, unwind and enjoy every bit of each destination for its unique qualities and stunning beaches. Greece is also laced with so much ancient history that their culture is one to be experienced and enjoyed. Fly into Athens and spend a few days there first as it is a must see city in Europe.

 

Being one of the top honeymoon destinations, couples will find that resorts already have packages with the islands best activities, adventure tours, relaxing spa treatments, dinners, trips etc. Some resorts allow couples to tailor make their own packages. It is imperative to check out what all the islands have to offer before you book so that you are getting the best out of your holiday!

 

Best time to visit the Greek Islands…..April to October for the sunny and dry weather you will want. July and August are the hottest months, but the busiest months!

 

 

African Safari, Africa

An African honeymoon can be just as romantic as one of those on a beach in tropical paradise. You can always combine this part of your honeymoon with a week afterwards on an island in the Indian Ocean. Imagine being in the seclusion of the African wilderness, no other people to bother you, just you and your new partner. You may have spent the day trekking around the wilderness, spotting animals you have never seen before in their natural habitat amongst a setting which can only be described as having that mysterious feeling.

 

There are quite a few options for you to choose from when it comes to where you go and what you want to do in Africa. You can combine safaris with the following amazing options: Victoria Falls, Cape Town, Zanzibar, Mozambique, Manda Bay and Kruger Park to name just a few.

 

With magnificent rustic African lodges, ultimate adventure experiences and luxurious island experiences, Africa is a top place to venture on your holiday of a lifetime!

 

 

Australia

 

Probably one of the furthest places you can fly to if you are coming from Europe Australia’s sheer vastness ensures that this country has everything to offer you on your honeymoon from dazzling superb cities to tropical islands to the Australian outback. If you have enough time off your normal daily lives, take a month to explore this country for what it has to offer.

 

 

 

There are very few major cities in Australia and most of them are dotted along the east coast. Sydney is one of the best cities in the world combining the fantastic harbours, skyscrapers, fabulous close to the city beaches and fine dining and drinking experiences. Melbourne with its European ambiance, winding small streets and huge character make it just as appealing as Sydney. Brisbane and Cairns are cities that you will come across if you choose to drive the east coast, stopping at striking beaches, surfer towns or paradise locations. Stop off along the way and take a trip to the Whitsunday Islands (a popular spot for honeymooning Ozzies) or Fraser Island. To the North of the Country on the east side there is the likes of Daintree Forest, with their tropical climate rainforests comb a lot of the northern tip. To the West is the unforgettable drive from Broome down passing Perth, and swinging around the south west tip to drive along the Great Ocean Rd. You never know what you might see on these drives, kangaroos, huge cliff tops, outstanding beaches, and luscious rainforests. Or if you prefer travel into the centre of the country to Uluru, the mysterious Ayers Rocks where you are literally in the middle of nothing where the true feel for the vastness and reality of the Outback can be appreciated!

 

Australia has opposite seasons to Ireland and most parts of the country apart from the north can get chilly in the winter months. It is important to pick when to go and even when you are in the country when the best times are to visit particular areas such as Queensland as it can experience the tropical rainy season.

 

I can say from personal experience, if I hadn’t been there before Australia would be on my top list of places to go as it has absolutely everything to offer you!

 

 

Brazil

 

Yet another massive country with so much to offer, Brazil is like lots of small different countries grouped into one. A short flight from Rio to the north will transport you into a totally different realm where you think you boarded a plane to Africa. Brazil has fantastic nightlife, cities, the Amazon rainforest, paradise beaches and oozes culture like you wouldn’t believe! This is one of those types of holidays where you won’t want to stay in just the one destination.

 

Brazil is divided up into many different provinces, where wealth divide is hugely apparent and the influence of different cultures quite evident. The south is the wealthiest with the big cities like Rio de Janeiro and Sao Paolo but boasts beautiful destinations such as Belo Horizonte. Try organising your honeymoon around carnival, definitely an experience to remember. Further north, it gets more tropical, beautiful and blissful as you approach the equator. There is huge African influence here from the times of the plantation. Head up on a trip to the Amazon or perhaps visit the Pantanal, one of the world’s largest tropical wetland areas that spreads across Bolivia and Paraguay. A must see is Iguazu Falls, magnificent thundering waterfalls that border Argentina and Paraguay. If you have lots of time on your hands there are plenty of South American countries bordering Brazil waiting to be indulged by honeymooners!

The really is no bad time to visit Brazil, it has a great climate with temperatures ranging from 15 to 35 degrees with the warmest time being December to February. However this is also the busiest time so watch the prices!

 

 

 

I hope that this has given you some insight into what the world has to offer you and your new spouse on that special holiday you will always remember. It is a big decision so definitely make the right one!

 

Images taken from The Guardian, The Viceroy Resort Website, flikr.com, Africansafari.com, shedexpedition.com. asiasociety.

continue reading "Tip Top Honeymoon Destinations!!"

Adare Manor - A venue of dreams!

Pin It Now!

Adare Manor is located in Adare village in Limerick in the South West and is one of the most romantic wedding venues in Ireland. The Manor boasts beautiful backdrops and the castle has an enchanted feeling which is complimented by the fairy tale spires and its uniquely decorated halls and galleries. The grounds on which the venue is set are magnificent and walks amongst the gardens alone will take your breath away.

 

 

 

There are a few options on where you can have your wedding reception depending on your guest numbers. These are listed below and are all without a shadow of a doubt as fabulous as each other.

Minstrel’s Gallery Weddings: The Minstrels’ Gallery is a beautiful and evocative room that runs for 132ft from east to west and is filled with morning and then evening light. There are 17^th century choir stools at one end of the room. The north wall is panelled with biblical episodes. Many fireplaces line the southern wall. The room can accommodate up to 200 guests who can be seated at round tables or one long table is available for smaller parties. At midnight the guests can move down to the Tack Room. This is lined with great stone flags and has an open pit of blazing logs. A baby grand piano is available to play and the room will be lit with candles and firelight. There is a €1000 charge for use of Minstrel’s Gallery.

 

 

Library Weddings: The library provides an intimate setting for a smaller wedding of family and close friends. It is the oldest room in the house and the 7 pane window overlooks the beautiful gardens. There is a magnificent Pugin fireplace in this room. The ceilings are arched in wood with shelves of old books lining the walls. This room can cater for up to 28 place settings on one single table.

 

 

Secret Garden Weddings: This could provide you with the setting of a truly magical day behind the tall granite walls of the old estate gardens. Today apple, pear and fig trees line the garden and are laden with fruit each autumn. You pass through an arched gateway and down an aisle of torchlight to the pavilions beyond. In the gardens you can leave everything to your imagination and apply whichever appropriate theme for your fantasy wedding. There are two walled gardens where dinner, dancing and cocktails can all take place. There is a charge for the use of the walled gardens. Marquee hire, catering and all other provisions must be organized by the bride and groom although the House facilities can be used at the guests discretion. The Secret Garden Wedding Celebrations can be arranged with freedom and flexibility with all provisions such as the Marquee Hire and Food and Beverage requirement arranged by the Bride & Groom. The grounds of the Walled Garden are offered for a fee of €10,000 and require that all 62 Rooms are reserved in the Manor House on the Night of the Celebration.

 

There are many outdoor areas for stunning photographic opportunities. There are stonewalled gardens, winding footpaths, magnificent gardens all on a backdrop of a stunning manor that is beside the River Maigue. This offers your guests opportunity for relaxing walks with amazing imagery and will provide beyond exquisite scenery for wedding photographs.

 

 

There are no specific wedding packages available to the bride and groom. The manor sees this is an opportunity for the happy couple to tailor their own wedding package. They have an extensive a la carte menu to choose from with wedding tastings before you decide on your final menu.

 

 

Adare Manor is very well located for any guests coming from out of town. Shannon airport is very close by with Bus Eireann serving Adare Town and Iarnrod Eireann train services serving Ennis and Limerick. There is substantial accommodation in the Manor and offers several other activities on site. There is a swimming pool and fitness centre, golf course, archery within the manor grounds, fishing on site in the River Maigue, bicycle hire & pre-made picnics from the Manor, falconry and hawk walks. There is also the Lavender Cottage Spa & Retreat Centre on the grounds. There are also several recreational facilities located in close proximity to the hotel with some of Ireland's most beautiful scenic and historical spots such as The Cliffs of Moher on your doorstep. The hotel caters for every type of guest!

As one of Ireland's top wedding destinations this is a place you could really have the wedding of your dreams. This five star location really has it all and the true beauty of the venue needs to be sampled by you in real life on your venue search for your wedding day to really appreciate its true magnificence and perfectness!

 

 

 

 

 

Images taken from the Adare Manor official website and wedding brochure.

 

 

continue reading "Adare Manor - A venue of dreams!"

Wedding Dates for your Diary!

Pin It Now!

If you are recently engaged, have your wedding date booked for the later half of this year or next year and are looking for some inspiration for you wedding there are no better places than wedding fairs and events! Packed with information on venues, suppliers, dresses to name but a few it is definitely the first place to start. You will truly enjoy yourself no matter who you bring with you be it your bridesmaid or your groom, there are always competitions, cake samples and at the big events fashion shows!

 

 

 

 

Here is a list of upcoming events nationwide for the next few months for you to make note of, especially if they are in your area. Even if you aren't interested in the venue itself, the suppliers that attend these events may be what you are looking for plus its an excuse to immerse yourself in all things wedding! The majority of the fairs are admission free bar the larger events 'The Wedding & Honeymoon Show' and 'Southern Brides'.

 

 

• Sunday 19th May - Wedding Fair - Roganstown Hotel & Country Club, Dublin

          From 2 to 5pm

• Tuesday 21st May - Exclusive Wedding Showcase - House of Fraser, Belfast

          From 7 to 9pm
          Must register online for a place.

• Thursday 23rd May - Summer Wedding Fair Showcase - Newgrange Hotel, Navan, Co.Meath

          From 5 to 9pm

• Sunday 26th May - Wedding Fair Extravaganza - Crowne Plaza, Dublin

          From 2 to 5pm

• Sunday 26th May  - Wedding Open Day - Ardboyne Hotel, Co. Meath

          From 2 to 5pm

• Sunday 26th May - Wedding Showcase - Springfield Hotel, Leixlip, Co. Kildare

          From 2 to 6pm

• Tuesday 4th & Wednesday 5th June - IKEA's Wedding Event of the Year with Bláithín O'Reilly Murphy - IKEA, Dublin

          From 6pm
          Book your place online at www.ikea.com

• Friday 14th June - Wedding Consultation Day - The Brehon, Co.Kerry

         From 4 to 9pm

• Sunday June 16th - Wedding Fair - The Carlton Shearwater, Balinsaloe. Guest speaker Bláithín O'Reilly Murphy.

          From 2 to 6pm

• Sunday June 30th - Wedding Fair - The Talbot Hotel, Wexford. Guest speaker Bláithín O'Reilly Murphy.

          From 2 to 5pm

• Sunday 21st July - Wonderful Wedding Afternoon! - Athlone Springs Hotel, Westmeath

          From 3 to 6pm

• 1st September - Wedding Fair - Dundrum House Hotel, North Cashel, Co. Tipperary 

         From 2 to 6pm.
         This is one of Tipperary's top venues.

• Saturday 7th & Sunday 8th September - Wedding & Honeymoon Show - RDS, Ballsbridge, Dublin.

          From 11.30-5.30pm
          Ireland's largest and most fantastic wedding fair.

• Saturday 5th & Sunday 6th October- Confetti Live with Franc - The Hub, Kilkenny

          From 12 to 6pm
          www.confetti.ie/live

• Saturday 28th & Sunday 29th October - Southern Brides - Silver Springs Moran Hotel, Tivoli, Co. Cork.

          From 12 to 6pm


So there's a list for the next few months to keep you going! More dates to follow as we reluctantly enter Winter season once again!

Images from bouldercountryclubweddings.com, Wedding & Honeymoon Show, Southern Brides, Confetti, Lethal Rhythms.

continue reading "Wedding Dates for your Diary!"

Are you attending the IKEA Dublin DIY Wedding Event?

Pin It Now!

We told you about it a couple of weeks ago and with only 20 days to go, booking is now open for this super DIY Wedding Event at IKEA Dublin!!

Book Now for either Tuesday June 4th or Wednesday June 5th { both starting at 6pm } in the IKEA Dublin Store!

Our office wall is covered in ideas {here's a sneak peek} and we are unbelievably excited to share some amazing style and DIY wedding ideas with the 200 lucky people who get to attend this event over the two days...

Yes that is right, there are only 100 tickets per evening, so get booking { HERE } fast!!

Those who attend will get to schmooze {with us} and enjoy some canapes and drinks on arrival, while perusing the 4 beautifully designed wedding scenes we'll have created for you; each jam-packed full of DIY Wedding projects and ideas.

I'll {Bláithín} will then talk you through how we created everything and how you can do the same and I'll take a few projects from each scene and actually make it before your eyes! And of course, Ill have a few fun Swedish wedding traditions and ideas and some fabulous top wedding tips thrown in for good measure :)

continue reading "Are you attending the IKEA Dublin DIY Wedding Event? "

A wedding in Wineport Lodge through the eyes of the Photographer.....

Pin It Now!

This is our first blog post from photographer Paula Kavanagh! The accompanying photos are magnificent!

 

 

What a pleasure it was to photograph this wedding at the Wineport Lodge Hotel, Athlone! The happy couple decided to step off the beaten wedding trail and personalize their wedding to suit their own style.  The bride, Hazel, and Groom, Alan, along with some close friends and family all checked into the Lodge the day before the wedding for some good food and great wine on the banks of Lough Ree, a perfect recipe for a memorable stay.

 

 

I arrived over early the following day to see what was happening and to feel the atmosphere of the preparations before the civil ceremony. It was great for me to be able to roam from room to room and just record what ever caught my eye as the bride and groom got ready for the start of their new life together.  It was so peaceful at the lodge that it felt like we had plenty of time on our hands, a strange feeling for a wedding photographer!  Hazel and Alan were determined to have a low key stress free wedding and that is exactly what it was. They sat in the roof top hot tub that morning, overlooking the lake and then just let the day stretch out in front of them.  There was no rushing to the hairdressers, beautician, church or hotel as it was all happening for them right there at the Wineport Lodge.

 

 

Another personal touch the couple introduced to their day was the Sand Ceremony. This ceremony involves a symbolic blending of different-coloured sands poured from separate containers by the bride and groom into a single vessel. It symbolizes the couple having two separate lives beforehand, unique traits and personalities and unifying these with the marriage.

 

 

After a few delicious looking and tasting hors d'oeuvre’s which were as much art as food and a glass of wine we went out to the lake to take some family photographs. After that the wedding party all sat around one big table beside the fire overlooking the lake and enjoyed the rest of the wedding day.

 

Mmm, now when can I find time to go back there?

 

 

 

Photography by Paula Kavanagh, Blackrock, Co. Louth www.pkphotography.ie

Shoes by “Irregular Choice” Eagleton’s Drogheda

Jewelry: Earrings “Fran &Jane”. Bracelet, Antique shop in Brighton. Watch family heir loom.

Dress by Lusan Mandongus

continue reading "A wedding in Wineport Lodge through the eyes of the Photographer....."

Alice in Wonderland Wedding - Wacky or Wonderful?

Pin It Now!

An Alice in Wonderland themed wedding is a huge craze in the USA. America do boast a 'big wedding culture' so it seems more normal and feasible stateside. However, I think this theme, that has probably not been done amongst your circle of friends yet could be so unique, exciting and definitely different!
 

 

 

There are many attributes to this wedding theme that I am about to delve into but the first one to consider would be your venue. Couples would need to pick a wedding venue that suits the theme, so ideally a country house or hotel with beautiful gardens would be perfect. A wedding outdoors or in a marquee would also be superbly suitable!
 

 

Below are some inspiring ideas to add to your fabulous 'Alice' wedding which are so cute and fantastic! There are so many ideas from invitations to centrepieces and what culinary treats you may offer your guests. You could really go wild on this if you wanted to!

 

 

 

 

                                                           

                                                

If you want to keep your bridal attire within the 'Alice' theme, consider colourful bridesmaid dresses and shoes, elegant yet dainty bridal gowns, delicate shoes that look they could be worn on a broadway show and flowers that appear as though they are picked from a wild garden. Groomsmen could add flair and character to their suits with bright and bold colours in their waistcoats and cravats (and some fancy mad hatter hats - just for photo opportunities!).

 

 

 

 If you are truly blown away by the idea of this theme, you could go all out and make your wedding breakfast a tea party!! It all depends on the couple how far you may want to go with this, small touches or a massive extravaganza will result in an unforgettable occasion with fantastic photographs!

Photographs sourced from weddingbee, aliceinweddingland.co.uk, pinterest, loretablog, a Jorge Manuel photoshoot, theeverylastdetail.com 

continue reading "Alice in Wonderland Wedding - Wacky or Wonderful?"

Las Vegas Weddings: Out of Town Wedding Guest Welcome Baskets

Pin It Now!

There is no nicer way to greet your inbound destination wedding guests than with the perfect Out of Town wedding guest welcome basket. Filled with treats that celebrate local culture and attractions, welcome baskets help make your guests feel at home.

Great Information

Every welcome bag or basket should include relevant and helpful information for your VIP guests. Maps, lists of your favorite local attractions, show schedules and restaurant recommendations are standard inclusions. When planning a Las Vegas Wedding, for example, give guests a layout of The Strip and Fremont Street. Consider having a custom map printed that highlights your favorite casinos and night spots. An itinerary of major wedding-related times and events can also be very helpful. Make sure to include practical general information like the best transportation options while in town, insider tips about traffic and weather
conditions and emergency contact info in case your guests need a little extra help.

{ Source }

Amenities and Necessities

It’s a good idea to include some basic amenities in your welcome baskets. Las Vegas wedding guests may forget some everyday local must-haves like bottled water and sunscreen. Snacks at major hotels can be expensive, so including cheese and crackers, or a couple of candy items can help while weary travelers are first settling in. Go the extra mile and make your baskets personal by featuring some of each of your favorite childhood (or even current favorite) snacks.

Local Flavor

Capture the local flavor by including items with regional significance. A basket for a wedding in Ireland, for example, may include an assortment of local teas, a bottle opener or perhaps a pair of wool socks for the potentially cool weather. If you are planning an upscale or more sophisticated affair, source local wines or add in a bottle of your favorite bubbly with personalized toasting flutes.

{ Source }

Include a Personalized Note of Thanks

Always include a note from yourselves to your guests thanking them for making the extra effort to travel in order to celebrate your important day. Hand sign a letter or card for each basket and your guests will know you care.





Plot out Distribution and Call Hotel Properties in Advance

Finally, do the necessary legwork to ensure smooth delivery of your out of town guest welcome baskets. Some hotels require certain labeling on each bag, and other will charge a fee to have them delivered to the guest room at check-in. Confirm the specifications for your guests’ hotels in advance and you’ll ensure that your thoughtful gifts are received, and appreciated, by your loved ones as planned!

Always & Forever Weddings and Receptions is the premier Las Vegas wedding resource for
brides planning their wedding in Las Vegas. Always & Forever Weddings and Receptions is
located at 2902 Lake E Dr Las Vegas, NV 89117 and can be reached at 702- 318-5683 and 800-
259-2978.

continue reading "Las Vegas Weddings: Out of Town Wedding Guest Welcome Baskets"

Five Important Things To Know Before Getting Married

Pin It Now!

It is common for many couples to jump into marriage without knowing some important things about themselves and each other. Whether you simply do not want to know the answers or have forgotten to ask them these important questions, they are something that you will seriously want to think about before tying yourself to this person until death do you part. In some cases, not knowing important things about each other before marriage can lead to arguments and sometimes divorce. Be sure to have these open and honest discussions with your significant other for a healthy, happy and long-lasting marriage.

Your Partners Habits

The habits that your partner currently has are things that you will want to know about them. These
habits could get in the way of your daily schedule and lifestyle. There are things that you will both
need to agree on rather than everything being one-sided. If your significant other has a habit of always getting his or her own way, this is something that you will need to discuss before getting married. It should be made clear that you both need to work together to break habits and to form a stronger connection.

Feelings on Children

Before tying the knot, it is especially important to know how you each feel about children and
expanding your family in the future. If you want to have children, but your partner doesn't, this could be a major deal breaker in your relationship. Wanting to have children may not be something that you are willing to compromise on.

Finances

You should know where you each stand financially and how you will manage your money once
married. Will you be opening a joint bank account? Retirement funds? Will you be purchasing stocks? Are quality credit repair services needed to build your credit score? Being on the same page in terms on money is especially important to maintain a healthy relationship. Not knowing where you each stand in terms of finances can cause fights and arguments in the future.

Employment and Furthering Careers

Find out if your partner is happy with their current career or if they are looking to further their career by relocating in the future. Do you each have goals in terms of careers and will things need to be sacrificed in order to achieve these goals? Discuss your future plans before committing to a lifetime of marriage.

Your Partners Background

Your partner may not be the same person now that they were several years ago. Discuss their
background, trouble that they may have gotten into in the past and past relationships to build a strong and trustworthy relationship rather than going into the marriage blind.

About the Author:

Madyson Grant is a small business owner and a professional writer. Her passion for helping others fuels her writing and her search for more helpful information.

continue reading "Five Important Things To Know Before Getting Married"

Honoring the Women on your Wedding Day.

Pin It Now!

A wedding day is about many many things. Not least the joining of two families, the creation of a new one and the binding of everlasting love.

Its also about creating memories. Ones to be treasured forever.

A wedding day is important to a man, a father and a brother, but even more so for a mother, a sister and a best friend.

Remember to create some wonderful memories with your treasured female family members and friends.

Here are some great ideas from our friends at SimplyBridal.com

continue reading "Honoring the Women on your Wedding Day. "

Clontarf Castle - A castle in the city!

Pin It Now!

 

 

A medieval themed wedding is one of the most popular at the moment with Ireland boasting so many ancient and beautiful castles it is something that can be achieved quite easily. If you require that castle but you don’t want to travel too far from the city due to guests flying in or your choice of church then Clontarf Castle is the ideal location for you.

 

Clontarf Castle is one of Ireland’s premier castle venues dating back to Norman times. This boutique hotel has been restored and rejuvenated whilst retaining its traditional feel and history of an ancient castle. It is only 2 miles from the city centre and 5 miles from Dublin Airport. Not only is it a top venue but it prides itself in luxury accommodation, passionate and friendly staff and beautiful medieval décor.  It is set amongst beautiful gardens which provide stunning surroundings for the castle itself.

 

 

 There are a few options depending on your guest numbers of which room that you can have your reception in. The Great Hall can accommodate well over 100 guests seating and far more for your evening reception. It’s gorgeous colour scheme of gold and cream with its high ceilings and chandeliers make it a true venue fit for only a princess! As night falls the curtains are drawn and candles are lit achieving the true castle ambiance. Smaller weddings can avail of rooms such as The Viking Room with its stained glass windows, high ceilings and magnificent décor make it a fabulous location. Clontarf Castle is delighted to offer the happy couple onsite facilities for civil ceremonies also.

 

 

 

The castle offers couples a choice of wedding packages which are aptly named The Enchanted, The Charmed, The Fairytale and The Majestic. As with all wedding venues; menus, packages and pricing are all specific to each couples requirements. If not one particular package appeals to couples there is option to customise your own wedding package. Food options look glorious and prices are very fair for an exquisite location.

 

If you are interested in getting married at Clontarf Castle, details of who to contact are available on the website. The castle also hosts wedding fairs throughout the year so it is important to keep an eye on the website.

 

For a medieval wedding, with that rustic, historical and charming feel there is nowhere better in Dublin than the picturesque and delightful Clontarf Castle.

 

 

 

 

Images are from the Clontarf Castle website.

 

continue reading "Clontarf Castle - A castle in the city!"

Top tips to get your wedding guests mingling!

Pin It Now!

Wedding days are stressful enough without having to worry about whether your guests are having a good time or if they are getting on with one another. Why not prepare yourself using these top mingling tips so that it is not something that you will have to fret about at all!

 

1. Be strategic with your table plans! – It is always very hard to know who to seat with who at weddings. The best way to tackle this is have a 50/50 ratio of knowing each other at the table but also consider common interests and age groups as they are most important.

 

2. Circular tables only please! – If available at your venue, always opt for circular tables with a maximum of 10 guests. This is far more sociable and encourages much more mingling than square tables where guests will speak to people in front and either side only.

 

3. Escort cards – Use escort cards for guests to find their way to their tables rather than lists of names. Whilst finding their names, guests will interact with each other.

 

 

4. Favours – Place favours in a central location rather than on individual place settings. You could also encourage guests to take someone else’s favour (if they are named) and go and try to find that person.

 

5. Wedding badges – Name badges (comical or not) are a great way of guests knowing how each person knows the bride and groom. Check out cafepress.com for a great selection of quirky name badges.

 

 

 

 

 

6. The smoking area – Approximately 30% - 50% of your guests will smoke, if you’re at an Irish wedding. I found at a wedding I was at a few years ago the smoking area was so far away from the reception room it segregated the guests and the smokers missed the great songs and dances. When checking out venues see where the smoking area is located to perhaps avoid this problem.

 

7. Get dancing! – Kick of the evening disco with songs that have an accompanying dance that everyone knows very well and encourage guests to take part. E.g. Tragedy by Steps, the Macarena, Stop by the Spice Girls.

 

8. Trivia Quiz – Have a short trivia quiz on each table with questions about the bride and groom that all the guests at the table can take part in.

 

 

9. Photographs – Arrange a collage of photos or hang photos off string with pegs in the garden area (if there is one) or in the drinks reception area of the bride and groom and family and friends. This will definitely encourage chatting and laughter.

 

10. Musical Chairs – Each table is to play musical chairs during the reception. Every other guest should move one place to the left after each course so that everyone gets a chance to talk to one another. This will also get funnier as more drinks have been had!

 

11. Guestbook – Chose an alternate guestbook idea such as writing on pieces of Jenga or on a monopoly board. If a lot of your guests are from abroad, choose a map option where guests can pin where they are from and write a message.

 

12. Photo booths – Photo booths at weddings are not only a lot of fun but as the night goes on and people get to know each other better you never know what mix of friends and family you may having taking snaps together.

 

13. Name settings – Place a funny or interesting fact about each guest inside their neighbours name card and encourage each guest to read them out.

 

Of course you can't force your guests to mingle, people will undoubtedly talk to the people they know the best. However using some of the ideas above could result in new friendships, new romances or just an all round good time at your wedding!

Images courtesy of pinterest, onewed, cafepress.com, the knot.

continue reading "Top tips to get your wedding guests mingling!"