Real Weddings: Chloe and Emmet’s fairytale Co Waterford celebration

THE PROPOSAL
We were in Paris in March 2023. We always took a city break around that time of year to celebrate my birthday, and being a planner, I had the entire trip organised down to the last detail. On the second day, we were enjoying hot chocolate at the famous Carette when Emmet suddenly announced he wanted to go see a bridge. It didn’t fit with my carefully planned agenda, so I hesitated, but he insisted, and I reluctantly agreed.

When we arrived, he asked if I wanted a photo of me looking out at the Eiffel Tower, with him standing behind me, taking the picture. I said yes and posed for a few seconds when he suddenly said, “Turn around.” I did, and there he was, down on one knee, asking me to marry him. I didn’t even say yes; I just started jumping and crying.

Then he pointed out a photographer he had hired to capture the moment. We spent the next hour going around with the photographer, doing a full photoshoot. After the photographer left, I just stood there, thinking, “Did that really just happen?” It was so surreal.

THE WEDDING ATTIRE
Emmet got his and his groomsmen’s suits from Detail Menswear in Kilkenny. Emmet got the three-piece black tuxedo with a velvet bow tie, while the groomsmen wore a two-piece black tuxedo with suspenders. I got my dress from Perfect Day in Lurgan, Co Armagh. I am Disney-obsessed, so this dress is from the Disney Fairytale Collection by Allure Bridal and is inspired by Belle. 

THE CEREMONY
Both the ceremony and reception were held at Faithlegg House Hotel. From the moment we attended their Wedding Showcase, we knew it was the perfect venue for us. The staff’s attention to detail, their friendliness, and the exceptional food options made the decision effortless. Every member of the team went above and beyond to ensure our day was perfect. Thanks to their professionalism and flexibility, the entire day ran like clockwork; no request was ever too big.

The night before the wedding, I stayed in the Lady Olivia Suite with my mum and two of my bridesmaids. That morning, we were treated to a freshly cooked breakfast delivered to the suite while we were pampered by our hair stylist and make-up artist. From the suite, I had a full view of guests arriving at the hotel, which added to the excitement. Emmet stayed in Faithlegg’s lodges beside the hotel with our one-year-old son, Ollie. He enjoyed a relaxed morning with Ollie, his dad, and his groomsmen before walking to the hotel.

Michelle Kelly was our celebrant, and she created the most beautiful, personalised ceremony. It perfectly reflected who we are and the meaning of our relationship, setting the ideal tone for the day. So many of our guests commented on how touching, genuine and memorable the ceremony was. Michelle’s calm presence throughout all of our correspondence and her willingness to be just a phone call away for any questions made the experience effortless and special.

THE ENTERTAINMENT
Hazel Alexander performed on the violin during our ceremony and drinks reception, and she is incredibly gifted! Emmet walked up the aisle to the Star Wars theme song with Ollie, while I walked up the aisle with my mum to Tale As Old As Time from Beauty and the Beast, keeping with our Disney theme.

During dinner, Manila Strings performed and absolutely brought the energy, becoming the life of the party! They move around to each table individually, and each table can choose three songs for them to play; they’re literally like a walking jukebox. Everyone is still raving about how amazing they were.

Later, we had Spring Break as our band and DJ, and it’s safe to say no one left the dance floor all night. Their energy, talent and ability to read the room were second to none, and their setlist was the perfect mix of classics, crowd-pleasers and modern hits.

THE DECOR
I designed our wedding invitations myself, keeping in line with our colour scheme of ivory, pink, black and gold, with just a subtle hint of Disney. Aisle Love You handled our wedding décor for both the ceremony and reception, and Rob is incredible at what he does. He’s one of the kindest, most professional, and hardworking people you’ll ever meet, and he brought my vision to life beautifully.

Petals n Blooms created the stunning florals for me and my bridesmaids. Our bouquets perfectly matched our colour palette and remain one of my favourite details from the day.

THEIR TOP TIPS
Stay by your partner’s side as much as possible throughout the day. It’s easy to get caught up in the whirlwind of trying to speak to everyone and take photos whenever asked, but remember what the day is really about. It’s about the two of you, so cherish every moment together.