Kate & Michael’s Family Celebration by Gary Barrett Photography

Wanting to make their wedding a very intimate family affair, Kate and Michael chose to marry in a little country church in Butlersbridge. The day was captured by Dublin photographer Gary Barrett, who didn’t miss any of the stunning vintage touches on the day.

Michael and Kate’s relationship was an organic romance, as they had know each other for years before finally getting together.

We both knew right away that we would end up getting married! In fact, Michaels best man commented on the first night that ‘he was going to marry this girl!’ I suppose when you know, you know.

During a trip away the couple chose an engagement ring, so Kate knew a proposal was imminent and it happened on a cold Novembers night. Michael had planned a dinner for them, but stopped off at a place with special meaning to them and popped the question! They never did make it to the meal.

Both Kate and Michael were sure they wanted to follow on a family tradition of getting married on a Sunday, so they had to get married in County Cavan, as they are the only parish that allow Sunday weddings. The couple chose a quaint country church in Butlersbridge which ended up being the perfect location for them and their handful of guests. Their reception was held at the beautiful Glasson Country House Hotel in Co Westmeath, which is close to where they live. They chose here as they feel the location was stunning, the food is incredible, the reception suite was perfect, but what stands out is the attitude of the staff.

Our guests commented on how helpful and warm they were and they all went above and beyond to make people feel welcome and happy. They really were outstanding.

Planning the finer details of the wedding came easy to Kate, who runs her own business, The Vintage High Tea Co. She used props from the business to enrich the reception suite and add a personal touch to the day.

Choosing her wedding dress was also a pretty easy decision, as Kate had a very clear idea of what she wanted.

I always knew exactly what my dress would be, lace, satin and backless. I saw the one’ on a TV ad for Belleek Pottery and knew instantly that it was The’ dress! My best friend and I went to one bridal shop and I tried on a few and kept the best till last, Fiona had tears in her eyes when I walked out & I ordered it immediately. Afterwards, we celebrated with a nice glass of wine!

Not a huge fan of vibrant colours, which can date quickly, Kate chose silk oyster dresses from Mango for her three maids, that suited each beautifully and didn’t look too ‘bridesmaidy!’ They were teamed with sling back shoes and a stunning chignon.

Kate chose to dress the church with cherry blossoms, which blew not only her guests away, but Kate herself! The cherry blossom theme was carried through to the reception at Glasson, where Kate & Michael had chosen to have nine round tables instead of the traditional top table. Each table had its own centrepiece lovingly designed by Kate and her events design company. She had designed a boutique dessert table in the centre of the room which teamed with sweet treats such as mini macaroons, fruit tartlets, french patisseries and Tore truffles. Kate wanted the table as it was an excellent way for guests to mingle after the meal, making the atmosphere informal and fun. Each table had beautiful vintage cups and saucers, again supplied by The Vintage High Tea Co.

Advice for engaged couples

As we were having more evening guests , who were arriving at 8:30pm for a selection of canapés, we had a traditional Irish band Rig the Jig’ play for an hour during this time, before the main band, The Navan Swing Band’ started at 10pm and played right through. What a night of dancing was had and people still rave about the amazing band! It is really important to get the music right; it can make or break a wedding.

Congratulations tyo Kate and Michael, and a huge thanks to Gary Barrett Photography for sharing his beautiful images with us.

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