The landscape of Inishbofin Island is really something special, its enveloping mountains and little sandy beaches making it perfectly picturesque. On top of that the island itself is rather tiny and the population equally small, making it utterly private. So when Neasa and John began planning an intimate relaxed wedding they knew Inishbofin House on Inishbofin island would the perfect place for them. They have been heading to the island for many years as a favourite escape, so why not turn their special spot into the scene of their celebration and make lots more fabulous memories with all those they love? Their island wedding was a perfect blend of urban cool in a remote idyllic spot. Darek Novak joined them and captured each and every scenic moment.
Like lots of couples, Neasa and John went to school together. That's where the normalities of how they got together end, as it took just a few twists and turns before they realised they were meant to be. "We had mutual friends and we all hung out a lot during the summer of 2004, he ran a club night in Galway with some friends at the time and we were pretty much always there. He then introduced me to his chiropractor and I dated him which didn't work out. All the time there was a bit of a spark between myself and John. Anyway once the chiropractor was out of the picture my best friend took us both aside one night (separately) and told us to cop on and just get it together as it was painful for everyone else to watch. We did and and have been together ever since which was over 9 years ago."
Despite having talked marriage the proposal was a total surprise for Neasa. While on holidays in Taormina, Sicily John tried many times to whisk Neasa off to a romantic spot, only for Neasa to suggest something different. No beach strolls and no fancy dinner. Coming towards the end of the day Neasa and John found themselves alone on the hotel bar's balcony. Seasing the opportunity John got out the ring, Neasa almost fell of her seat and then, of course, said yes!
How gorgeous are Neasa's bridesmaid's chunky gold accessories?
For their wedding Neasa and John chose the Inishbofin House Hotel, chosen in part because it can be hired exclusively, but mainly for it's breath taking location.
The couple chose the Library room of the Inishbofin House Hotel as the location for their ceremony, where gazing out over panoramic views of the harbour, surrounded by loved ones they could make their vows to one another.
"Our ceremony was performed by Geraldine Bown who is an Interfaith Minister who can also legally perform weddings. She helped us to create a ceremony that was very personal and that we felt totally comfortable with."
After the ceremony the bridal party braved the elements and headed for the spectacular shore...
One of the best things about getting married on an island is you are guaranteed countless fabulous options for wedding portraits!
Dumhach beach in particular is very special to Neasa and John as they've visited it many times. Living in Ireland it's easy to forget about the gorgeous beaches and natural wonder we are surrounded by, but looking at these pictures is a reminder that the sand and crystal clear blue water here could easily match any luxurious destination in the world.
I really do adore Neasa's outfit. She opted for a Lover wedding dress, which she bought online, a risk for sure but it totally paid off. Keeping her look unfussy and 'her', she did her own hair and make up and added a pair of silver boots (that I have my eye on from Buffalo on Dublin's Wicklow Street) to change into after the ceremony (those heels wouldn't last long in the sand, no matter how pretty).
The pretty in blush bridesmaids went for complimentary highstreet dresses, both from minimalist Swedish store Cos. Not to be outdone by the girls John had a three-piece made-to-measure suit from Magee with a bright tie giving him a pop of colour.
As you can tell this wedding was ultra relaxed with a strong emphasis on having a good time. All of the guests knew each other so there was no awkward who sits where conundrums and almost everyone helped out with the DIY. "The DIY swat team who spent the day before and morning of the wedding fluffing pom poms (surprisingly the men had a particular talent for this), collecting stones for the aisle and sand for the jam jars."
Not just good for fluffing pom poms the boys also provided the tunes on for the evening "The DJ was the groom and friends which made the whole thing extra special. For this part of the night we moved into the front bar of the hotel, which is perfect for a small party, and has a great view of the harbour."
The entire day looked effortless, but as we all know making things look simple takes a lot of work. Neasa and John have some wise words of advice for any of you in the midst of wedding planning "Do what makes ye happy and works for ye as a couple. For us keeping it simple and relaxed was really important. Also delegate, people are always offering to help and they genuinely mean it. I wish I had realised this earlier. Without the help of our friends the whole thing wouldn't have come together, especially being on an island. Friends organised the sound system, others collected and delivered the wine, my bridesmaids made the table plan, the best man made the invites, everyone was involved. Which really made a massive difference to us."
Huge congratulations guys, it looked like you had a blast!
A big thank you also goes to Darek Novak for sharing your work with us, always a pleasure! To see more of Darek's work or to get in touch head over to www.photosligo.com
The Wedding Details
- Wedding Dress: Lover the Label
- Bridesmaids dresses: Cos
- Shoes: Kurt Geiger & Buffalo
- Flowers: Go Dutch
- Balloons & Tassels: Pearl and Earl
- Suit: Magee
- Music: Francis O' Halloran
