Karen and Niall's Borris House Wedding
A Dublin bride and Wexford groom hosted 135 guests for a relaxed, self-styled summer wedding at Borris House in Carlow, featuring their dog Marty and
Karen from Dublin and Niall from Wexford married 135 family and friends in a summer celebration at Borris House in Carlow. Their cocker spaniel, Marty, also attended the wedding, which the couple planned themselves to ensure a relaxed and authentic day.
The couple chose Borris House for its relaxed nature and because they had exclusive use of the house and grounds for the entire weekend. They were also influenced by previous weddings they saw on the venue's Instagram page. Karen said the staff they met at an open day were incredibly helpful.
Planning and Personal Touches
Karen and Niall designed their own stationery and DIY décor, including a fabric drapery ceremony backdrop in muted earthy shades. Their celebrant, Caroline McNamara of Serendipity Celebrants, spent significant time learning their love story to make the ceremony personal. A friend, Killian Murphy, played a guitar song he wrote specifically for the ceremony, which was their favourite piece of music from the day.
The bride offers extensive logistical advice for other couples. She suggests designating specific tasks to wedding party members, such as ensuring the groom doesn't see the bride before the ceremony using a venue's back stairs, and moving cars. Karen recommends involving family and friends in finessing the finer details such as ribbons and napkins. She said it makes it even more special when they swing a napkin in the air and they crack jokes about why on earth they ironed 130 of them for you.
Fashion and Beauty Details
Karen wore the Jane Dress by Katherine Tash from The White & Gold in Howth, styled with a 3D floral veil and Steve Madden heels. Her makeup was done by Ellie Murphy, and her hair by Danielle Whelan of The Space. Karen stresses the importance of minding the hair and makeup artists. She said when they are happy you will look even more fabulous.
The bridesmaids wore gowns from Reformation. The groom's party wore suits from Dorian Black, with the groom in a white blazer with black lapels.
Vendors and Practical Tips
Mad About Flowers created the colourful floral designs. The Honeyvoom Duo, All Talk Wedding Band, and DJ & SAX provided music. Karen advises couples to lock in who will pay vendors in cash envelopes and to bring a change of shapewear for dancing. She also recommends not sweating the small things, noting unexpected moments like a child under a table during speeches become special memories.
The celebration extended to a post-wedding BBQ across the road at Joyce's Bar, catered by Bosco’s Catering. The couple took a mini-moon to Italy and a later honeymoon to South Africa. Photography and videography for the wedding were by Kheffache Studios. Karen reflects that these vendors are an investment beyond just photos and video, as they helped coordinate elements like speeches.
