A rural house, a beautiful garden, elegant flowers and the sun shining on a freshly cut lawn is an idyllic backdrop for a small wedding…why not make it yours?
Rural settings and country houses and venues with beautiful gardens are the backdrop of choice for small weddings. Both Ballyvolane House and Bantry House in Cork are favourite settings for event planner Annie Dunne, of AD Events. Wedding planner Colin Fagan suggests The Wicklow Escape, especially for gourmand couples (it majors on the food experience), and Longueville House, Co Cork, an Ireland’s Blue Book gem.
If you are looking to host a country house wedding in Ireland, read on …
The Wicklow Escape is a rustic mountain lodge in a wilderness setting, perfect for small gatherings.
ACCESSIBILITY
“When planning an out of town wedding, it’s very important to consider the accessibility of the venue for your guests and ensure that transport and accommodation options are available and convenient. If you are having a marquee wedding in the countryside I always recommend you plan for any logistical challenges that may arise in a rural setting such as limited facilities and amenities,” says Annie. “A rule of thumb, don’t compete with the beauty of a natural setting, rather complement it when thinking of decor.”
Inish Beg Estate is perfect for an intimate wedding. With exclusive use of the estate facilities, 52 guests can stay ovenight on the island; www.inishbeg.com.
DAY-OF PLANNING
Even if a wedding planner isn’t in your budget, hiring a professional to oversee the “day-of” details can be a game-changer. Finding a catering team familiar with working at outdoor weddings is hugely important too. Opt for passed appetisers at cocktail hour, and plated meals for supper, rather than a buffet with pests buzzing around! Inclement weather is always a concern – if you’re going with a marquee, reserve one with side walls, even if you don’t think it is necessary. No guest wants their outfit ruined by rain!
Channel the trend for boat house receptions at John and Gwen Brennan’s Dromquinna Manor overlooking Kenmare Bay in Co Kerry.
VENUES
Five fab country house venues:
Bantry House, Co Cork
For more intimate wedding venues in Ireland, follow this link.
JOIN US for The Gloss Wedding Salon at The Merrion on Saturday, March 23. THE GLOSS and wedding planner extraordinaire Tara Fay will host an exclusive lunch at The Garden Room at The Merrion to celebrate with brides, sisters and friends, bridesmaids, mothers and mothers of the bride. Click here for more information and to book your table.