Real Wedding: Plenty Of Sparkle At An Intimate Bash Deep In The Irish Countryside

THEY ARE Siofra Ni Chiardha, Costumier and Jonathan Leech, Medical Scientist

THEY LIVE IN Drumcondra, Dublin

THEY MET As 18-year-olds at Witnness?Festival back in 2002 (Siofra gave Jonathan a jockeyback?home one night after a gig…)

THE VENUE Kilshane House, Co. Tipperary

PHOTOGRAPHY Pawel Bebenca

 

THE DECOR Simplicity was the key to success for Siofra and Jonathan. A clean colour palette with glorious gold accents allowed for a sumptuously understated design?aesthetic. White roses, baby’s breath and dark green ivy were the perfect accessories to Siofra’s tiered lace gown, designed by LA-based Claire Pettibone.

THE CEREMONY Siofra and Jonathan tied the knot in Kilshane’s curvilinear?conservatory – a spectacular construction filled with ferns, palms and mature banana trees. No need for damp guests (and dampened spirits); the conservatory gives a ceremony all the beauty of an outdoor setting, with none of the weather-related risks. Conscious of their guests’ needs and comfort, the couple were adamant that the ceremony and reception should happen at one venue. Oh, and the late bar was an extra bonus!

THEIR TOP TIPS Siofra and Jonathan are keen to share three. First, enlist the help of crafty friends and family. Second, always ask (respectfully) for the best price and last of all, rent a van. If you have lots of props to ferry from home, don’t stress by trying to stuff them in your own car. Unless you happen to own a Ford Transit. Giant Jenga and a couple of keyboards really do require a rental van.

THEIR BEST MOMENTS Dancing after all the formalities. Letting your hair down towards?the end of the night is the ultimate catharsis – enjoy it.

THE CREW

Bride’s dress Claire Pettibone at Ivory and Pearl. Bridesmaid’s dresses Folkster. Groom’s suit Ted Baker. Make-up Ciara Smith at The Make-up Bar. Hair Jenny McCully, The Powder Room Girls. Cake Mary Behan. Bouquets and boutonnieres Buds and Berries. Humanist celebrant Geraldine O’Neill