'Exactly What We Wished For': Zoe & Lizzy's Cosy Pub Bash

A stunningly simple wedding with a firm focus on food and family!

We often think of bar and restaurant venues as being perfect for winter weddings, but this chic summer celebration in Dublin's Anglers Rest proves that intimate, country pub-style affairs are gorgeous in any season! Today's real wedding finds Zoe and Lizzy keeping things simple with a small guest list, unfussy décor and timeless wedding party style. Their big day was a celebration of love and family, with their gorgeous daughter, Sophie, playing a central role. The wonderful Olga Hogan Photography was kind enough to share the imagery from the day with us, so let's take a closer look!

Anglers Rest wedding, same-sex wedding

Zoe and Lizzy tell us that they met through a mutual friend, who they both played camogie with. "We instantly became inseparable," they explain. "We were finishing each other’s sentences within weeks of meeting each other. We're together over seven years now and time has absolutely flown by."

Lizzy was the one to pop the question, during what sounds like an amazing getaway in Kilkenny. "We went for dinner in a Michelin Star restaurant called Campagne, and it was so fab!" Zoe remembers. "After we took the tour of Kilkenny Castle, Lizzy suggested a walk in the castle grounds. We had just started when a park ranger shouted that the park was closing in five minutes. Lizzy started to panic, as I was busy taking photos of the castle. I heard her call my name, and when I turned around, she had the ring in her hand and said, 'I love you so much, will you marry me!?' At this point, I burst into tears. I think I even forgot to say yes!"

natural, glowy wedding makeup, natural dewy wedding makeup

The appliqué detail on this long-sleeved wedding dress is so pretty!

Zoe and Lizzy each asked their Dad to accompany them to the ceremony, which is one of those wedding traditions that we never tire of seeing. That one-on-one time is something you'll always remember!

Anglers Rest wedding, same-sex wedding
Anglers Rest wedding, same-sex wedding

Zoe and Lizzy kicked off wedding planning by sitting down to chat though their hopes and dreams for the big day. This is something we advise all couples to do in the very early days of engagement, so we're thrilled to hear it! "The important things to us were having our closest family and friends there on the day. We are both big foodies so it was also important that we had a venue that could provide high quality food and wine."

sequin flower girl style
Anglers Rest wedding, same-sex wedding

The couple's daughter played a crucial role in their wedding, even taking on one of the ceremony readings! "Our celebrant, Ann Dempsey, was so thoughtful when it came to including Sophie in the ceremony and making her feel important on the day."

long-sleeved wedding dress, Anglers Rest wedding, same-sex wedding
Anglers Rest wedding, same-sex wedding

Zoe and Lizzy's wedding dresses compliment each other so beautifully, don't they?! If you're feeling inspired, our post on same-sex wedding styling has got lots more tips and ideas.

Anglers Rest wedding, same-sex wedding
Anglers Rest wedding, same-sex wedding style
Anglers Rest wedding, same-sex wedding

Zoe describes the day as, "really chilled and sunny, and we were surrounded by our closest family and friends. Everybody said how emotional the day was and how fab the venue and food were. We absolutely loved our band, they really kept the guests entertained with some great music. We were so happy with the entire day from start to finish. It was exactly what we both wished for."

Anglers Rest wedding, same-sex wedding
Anglers Rest wedding, same-sex wedding

The couple knew they wanted a wedding venue that was cosy and intimate, which is what led them to the Anglers Rest. "This meant our guest list very limited, but this was also the making of our day. Everyone who attended our wedding really made the day so special for us. Having all the people that love and support us there, wanting nothing but happiness for us, was so amazing. It really made us realise how lucky we both are."

Anglers Rest wedding, same-sex wedding
Anglers Rest wedding, same-sex wedding

The couple kept their reception space décor really simple, using rustic brown card for their table numbers and table settings, and a small arrangement of summer florals as their centrepieces. Each guest was treated to a Lily O'Brien's chocolate in a reusable bag - this is the kind of wedding favour we can really get on board with!

simple wedding bouquet, Anglers Rest wedding, same-sex wedding
Anglers Rest wedding, same-sex wedding

Zoe and Lizzy's advice for engaged couples is to communicate with each other! "Discuss what you both want, and remember that it's about the two of you and nobody else. Take time to visit venues, listen to bands, and taste all the food! This day is the most special day of your life, it shouldn't be stressful, so embrace the craziness of it all!"

Anglers Rest wedding, same-sex wedding

After the wedding, Zoe and Lizzy flew to San Francisco for their honeymoon. "We spent an amazing five days there. Then we rented a car, drove to Santa Barbara for three days, Santa Monica for five days, and finished in San Diego for two days. It was an amazing trip that we would recommend to anyone who likes to travel and is up for some driving. The views were so fab! Later, we went on a familymoon to Fuerteventura with Sophie for 10 days. That was a welcome change of pace after the hustle and bustle of the States!"

We won't be forgetting this gorgeous day in a hurry! At this point, we've got to say thanks so much to Zoe and Lizzy for sharing their wedding with us, and to Olga Hogan Photography for providing the beautiful imagery! You'll find more photos in the gallery below.

Recommended Suppliers

Suppliers 

Zoe’s Wedding Dress //
The Bridal Outlet
|
Wedding Party Outfits //
ASOS
|
Accessories //
Pandora
|
Accessories //
Fields
|
Zoe’s Makeup //
Jennifer Galvin
|
Lizzy’s Makeup //
Lorraine O'Connell
|
Zoe’s Hair //
Tammy O’Bryan
|
Lizzy’s Hair //
The Powder Room Girls
|
Chocolate Wedding Favors //
Lily O Briens
|
Wedding Favour Bag //
Wish
|
Ceremony/Reception Music //
Sean De Burca
|
Band/DJ //
Twisted
|
Celebrant //
Ann Dempsey
|
//
|
RECOMMENDS

You might also like...

RECOMMENDS
Sign up to our newsletter
I do
chevron-downcross-circle