Couple Plans Two-Part Wedding in Ireland and Spain
Rory and Dearbhail held an intimate ceremony in Ireland for 19 guests, followed two months later by a 145-guest celebration in Marbella.
A couple from Ireland organized their wedding across two countries and two months. Rory and Dearbhail held an intimate legal ceremony at home before hosting a larger party in Spain.
The source, a real wedding feature on One Fab Day, details their planning process. The couple first got engaged in 2023 at Dromoland Castle in County Clare. They then decided on a two-part celebration to accommodate different groups and desires.
The Irish Ceremony and Dinner
The first event was a small, formal gathering in Ireland. The ceremony took place at Rory's parents' house in Meath. Only 19 guests attended the subsequent reception dinner at The Shelbourne Hotel's Constitution Suite in Dublin.
For this city wedding, Dearbhail chose a white suit with an oversized jacket by Rotate Birger Christensen. Rory wore a Canali suit. The couple handled the legal formalities during this intimate Irish celebration.
The Destination Celebration in Marbella
Two months later, they hosted 145 guests at Casa de La Era in Marbella. The couple selected this venue for its amphitheater-style seating and open, airy feel with sea views. Rory's family has a two-decade connection to the area.
Dearbhail's look for Spain was a custom gown by Irish designer Mizz Rio. Rory wore a Tom Ford suit. The bridesmaids wore black dresses from COS, and groomsmen wore Massimo Dutti suits.
The decor followed a crisp blue-and-white palette with hydrangeas and daisies. Instead of a wedding cake, they had a champagne tower. The band Stereo Star Band performed a slowed-down version of "I Like Me Better" for their first dance.
Planning Advice and Personal Touches
The couple strongly advised hiring a wedding planner for a destination event. They credited their planner, Raquel from Wanderlust Weddings Spain, for handling details and reducing stress.
Personal elements were woven throughout. The couple exchanged rings from Linda’s of Kin sale. Dearbhail honored her late father with song choices, photographs, and an embroidery detail on her dress. Her twin brother delivered a reading during the Spanish ceremony.
Their honeymoon plans are not yet finalized. South Africa is a possibility for the following January. The couple explained they wanted to spread out the celebrations. The entire event was photographed by Julie Cummins.
