Photos courtesy of Baker Photography

The Engagement

Neilus, a fierce handy man, built a den outside. When thinking how he wanted to propose to Leanne, he settled on candles, flowers and beautiful pictures of them over the course of their lives up to November 20, 2020. While playing Leanne’s grandparents’ favourite song, “If I give my heart to you” by Doris Day, Neilus asked, his then girlfriend, to be his wife. “It was so elegant, romantic and meaningful,” recalls Leanne. Neilus (with help from some friends) pulled off one of the most romantic proposals ever, while also including their boxer dog Bailey (who has since passed) and he caught it all on camera, making it special for years to come.

The Wedding

Their favourite memory - “We just remember laughing for the entire day. Everything about the wedding was special. From the guests to the vendors and suppliers that made the day go so smoothly.” Leanne and Neilus’ bridal party and families did “an unforgettable singing flash mob” in the church after the ceremony. “It was incredible. Our best woman also organised an intimate singing session with Sean Keane who is one of our favourite singers. These were moments we’ll never forget,” shares the bride.

They had a wonderful evening celebrating at the Fitzgeralds Woodlands House Hotel. Their meal options were steak, bacon and cabbage or salmon. They donated to Pieta House instead of physical wedding favours.

The bride’s advice: “Take the advice of the vendors and suppliers for your wedding. You are paying for their expertise so use it. Don’t expect everything to look like the pictures you see on Instagram and Pinterest. Although, they are a great starting point to get ideas from, be realistic to what you can get from the budget you have. We took the advice from all our suppliers, and it made the whole process stress free and enjoyable.” The newlyweds went to Barcelona for three days after their wedding, then to Lanzarote for 11 nights.

How was your experience with the Fitzgeralds Woodlands House Hotel?

“There’s only one word for the Woodlands that’s phenomenal. From start to finish they put us at ease. They looked after us every step of the way and Elaina talked us through, not only the reception, but the entire wedding day. They pulled out all the stops, from the drink’s reception, to the meal, the food later in the night and even the décor for the reception. As a couple we knew we were in safe hands and they went over and beyond for us. Every guest had only good words to say about the food and the service. No words can fully describe how special they made the day, and I would recommend any future bride and groom consider this beautiful family run hotel for their

big day.” www.woodlands-hotel.ie

How was your experience with Baker Photography?

“A photographer on your wedding day is with you from beginning to end. Therefore, Kenneth and Rose Baker bring such a personal element like none other to any couple’s big day. Their attention to detail and how they make every member of the bridal party relaxed in front of the camera, is a true talent. They not only take the most

beautiful photographs but make the wedding day you’ve dreamed of become a reality for you to enjoy forever more. We truly appreciate all they have done for us.” www.bakerphotography.ie

Suppliers

Engagement and wedding rings: Matthew Stephens

Dress: MK Bridal in Navan Co. Meath

Suits: Esquires Formal Menswear

Cake: Faux Cake from Etsy Supplier Faux Cakery Co and the Woodlands supplied a red velvet sheet cake for the guest that evening with teas and coffees

Ceremony music: Máire-Íde Ceol Croí

Photographer: Baker Photography

Videographer: Kevin Daly Video

DJ: Joe Scanlon

Band: Heart and Soul

Florist: My Dream Day

Hair: Kult Hairdressing Daryll, Barbara and Mary

Make-Up: Niamh O’ Dwyer and Ber Stokes

Invitations: Limelight Wedding Stationery

Wedding car: Bentley Wedding Hire

Day 2 In the Foynes Yacht Club and the food was catered by SC Catering