Tips from wedding planning expert Tara Fay on the perfect “minimony”- plus some of the best city wedding venues in Dublin …
“An intimate wedding usually comprises between 50 and 75 guests. A small wedding would have fewer than 50 guests and a micro wedding has 15 people or less,” explains event planner Tara Fay.
“Planning a small wedding is a different process to planning a larger one. It’s not about replicating a bigger event on a smaller scale. Often couples don’t want to be the centre of attention preferring to spend quality time with their guests during a dinner party-style reception.”
Some of Fay’s favourite city wedding venues in Dublin include the private dining room at Restaurant Patrick Guilbaud, the Museum of Literature and the Georgian salons at The Merrion. “All venues at The Merrion are beautiful: I created a wedding for 26 around a central table using 160 candles and it was stunning.”
A “minimony” at the Museum Of Literature Ireland.
Tara advises couples who want to plan their own weddings in favourite restaurants, galleries or museums to consider the following: “What experience do you want your guests to have? What is your budget? How many guests can a venue accommodate? Is it geared up for banquet-style service? You should also ask how late the venue will remain open, what table sizes and settings will be provided, if other guests will be in the venue at the same time and if candles are permitted.”
As for themes, Tara says using unusual flowers in a Dutch Masters style (ie imperfect) in muted tones are trending.“I also see more brides opting for key fashion pieces that can be worn again – a Dior Bar jacket for instance – while grooms are making use of stylists.”
5 VENUES FOR DUBLIN CITY WEDDINGS
For an elegant affair: The Georgian salons at The Merrion are simply exquisite. Bespoke weddings can be arranged for under 50 guests.
For a swish penthouse feel: The Trinity Suite at The Westbury can accommodate 20 guests.
For history buffs: The Constitution Suite at The Shelbourne suits an elegant occasion for up to 22 people.
For foodies: Marco Pierre White Courtyard Bar & Grill Donnybrook will host you all day in their restaurant, or for a more intimate session in their courtyard or library room.
French and fabulous: Bresson Restaurant, Monkstown, Co Dublin, offers a private dining room for up to 50 guests.
JOIN US at THE GLOSS Wedding Salon on April 19 where 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. Book your table now to avoid disappointment!
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