Destination Wedding: Lisa and David, Cork, Ireland

During their college days in Dublin, Lisa and David’s paths crossed many times. But it wasn’t until years later that they really hit it off. From there, the rest was history, and on October 5, 2012, they made it official with a destination wedding in Cork, Ireland. One hundred and sixty guests gathered from all over the world to attend the celebration, which was a relaxed yet formal soiree with classic charm. An Irish expression fit the fete quite well—it was a great craic—which means fun.

Lisa ordered supplies from Cards and Pockets and designed the stationery herself. With a little help from her bridesmaids, she assembled them and mailed them off in slate gray envelopes.

Lisa accessorized her Dawn FitzGerald gown with a matching bolero. The finishing touches were a tulle topper by Beatrice Couture Designs, her mother’s diamond tennis bracelet, her mother-in-law’s sapphire-and-diamond earrings, and a bouquet of white roses, eucalyptus, olive branches, and rosemary made by Mark Grehan of The Garden.

Exquisite black sequined appliques artfully accented the shoulders and train of the bride’s dress.

David wore a Tom Ford tuxedo and his groomsmen looked just as dapper in sharp black suits. They posed for a cheeky portrait snapped by photographer Katie Stoops with a classic, and very Irish, accessory—a pint of Guinness.

Bridesmaids wore Ghost dresses, H&M shoes, and Zara shoes and statement necklaces. They carried small bouquets of roses, astrantia, eucalyptus, and thistle.

David and his mum, Mary, shared a moment.

The already emotional day was made even more poignant because Lisa’s father had recently been diagnosed with brain cancer, thus compromising his health. Thankfully he remained well enough to be there—holding his daughter’s hand during their car ride to the church, walking her up the aisle, and giving an incredible speech during the reception.

Prior to the ceremony, Lisa and David saw each other for the first time in the magnificent garden of the Ballyvolane House, where their reception would later take place. Of the private time together, Lisa recalls how it helped her not be clouded by nerves for the ceremony and use it as an opportunity to absorb the emotion of the day.

Lisa and David were married in Castlelyons Parish in County Cork.

The traditional Catholic service was performed by a Jesuit priest and incorporated specific readings and prayers selected by the couple. Contemporary music performed by the bride and groom’s friends added a special touch. “The reflection at the end of the mass was composed and read by one of my best friends,” Lisa said. “The only point that I cried!”

The newlyweds paused to greet David’s grandmother Peg who traveled from a couple hours away to share in the celebration.

A vintage car transported the newlyweds from the church to their reception. On hand? Flutes of bubbly of course!

From the moment the pair first encountered Ballyvolane House they were captivated by it. With it’s old grandeur and magical and relaxed sensibility, there was no doubt the wedding would take place here. Plus, it’s a foodie’s dream—an important detail for the couple.

A converted pig shed with a vintage tent might not sound like the best setting for a reception, but it was a beautiful backdrop for the feast of local fare and merriment. Tables were dressed with casual groupings of lavender, cabbage flowers, rosemary, eucalyptus, and roses, loads of candles, and signs labeling them—each was a significant place to the couple, like the name of their family homes and streets they’d lived on.

“We didn’t want a traditional wedding guest book that gets put away and gathers dust,” Lisa said. “We wanted a memento of the day that we could look upon and laugh at and remember the good times.” Lisa’s brother painted a canvas black and gold pens were set out for guests to use to write their well wishes with. The board now hangs in the lounge of the couple’s home.

“Everywhere” by Fleetwood Mac played as the new Mr. and Mrs. hit the dance floor.

Photography: Katie Stoops 

Ceremony Location: Castlelyons Parish

Reception Location and Catering: Ballyvolane House

Event Planning: Jemma Cassidy of Hip Hip

Flowers: The Garden

Videography: Geoff Boothby

Music: The Moogs 69’s; DJ Dave Salacious

Hair: Ethan McClane

Makeup: Kate Synnott

Guests’ Accommodation: Castlemartyr Resort