What better way to start off your working week, than to have a look at an Amazing Real Irish Wedding? There's something truly uplifting, heartwarming and inspiring about seeing someone's wedding pictures so today we're honoured to have the gorgeous Autumn wedding of Maria & Paul, in Castle Durrow, Co. Laois...
...captured so beautifully by wedding photographer extraordinaire Eric Savoie
Both Maria and Paul got ready in Castle Durrow, Maria of course, as the blushing bride, bagged the bridal suite complete with gorgeous four-poster bed.
Getting ready was one of Maria's favourite parts of the day, and no wonder - getting into that gorgeous wedding gown from Kathy De Stafford, and having hair and make up done by the highly-recommended ladies from Powder Room Girls - total bliss. And they did a fabulous job - Maria's make up and hair are so glamorous yet very natural and soft, topped off by her vintage-style diamante clip from Gemini London.
The subtle use of magenta provides a harmonious touch throughout the wedding - loving the pop of colour from the pink orchids in her bouquet of cream roses, perfectly matched with her bridesmaids dresses (more of those later). You can't see it in this picture, but her little flowergirl wore a cape was knitted by Maria's Nana about 25 years ago for my sister’s communion - that's how heirlooms begin!
Bridal portraits just don't come better than these - Castle Durrow is a magnificent venue, and Eric's work on the lighting and composition shows what wedding photography is really about.
Paul and Maria's wedding ceremony took place in the picturesque Church of Most Holy Rosary in Abbeyleix, Co. Laois, and the happy couple were married by the same priest who married Paul’s parents - too cute.
When they returned to Castle Durrow, Eric Savoie, took the wedding party portraits, of which we only show a couple here, but they are so relaxed and natural, as Maria herself said: "We love our photos and Eric was so great to work with. Fantastic memories every time we look at the photos".
If you're considering an Autumn wedding, here's just more evidence of what a fantastic time of the year it is to choose - the light and colours of the leaves. And Maria's choice of bridesmaid dresses - the magenta colour, the ruffled neckline - are perfect, the warm colour is not a usual choice but absolutely divine.
After drinks reception in the main house, guests at Castle Durrow are directed down to the converted stables and enclosed courtyard, lit by candles.
It really is a beautiful and very romantic place to get married...
as Paul and Maria's wedding is so obviously testament to...
And their advice for those of you preparing? "I just felt so lucky all day! Don’t fret the small stuff in the run up to the day and don't worry about the weather!"
Wise words! In Ireland there really is no point.
So Maria and Paul - now nearly 3 months married - Congratulations! Hope you're enjoying a wonderful life together.
And to Eric Savoie, a big thank you for sharing this beautiful wedding with us - and this is only a tiny glimpse of it. You gorge yourself on even more of Paul and Maria's day, and also on his other gorgeous work - hop over to Savo.ie
