Couple: Robyn & Conor O’Neill
Engagement length: 2 years
Wedding date: 2021-08-14
Wedding location: Markree Castle Sligo
Photographer: Andrew Kilfeather
Videographer: Wanderlust Weddings
Robyn and Conor met outside a bar in Jesmond, Newcastle. They were both out celebrating with friends, and while Robyn and her friends were debating whether or not to go home, Conor overhead an Irish accent. He took this opportunity to strike up a conversation with Robyn and his charm worked! Both groups decided to continue their night together in Newcastle.
Conor proposed on Rosses Point beach, Robyn’s favourite place at home in Sligo. The first morning of their trip back to Sligo, Robyn and Conor headed off on their usual walk towards Rosses Point beach. On arriving to the beach Conor asked Robyn if she was going to take her usual picture of her favourite beach for Instagram. As Robyn turned to snap the picture, Conor got down on one knee, displayed the engagement ring and asked ‘Will you marry me?!’ Happy tears, hugs and many glasses of champagne followed!
They describe their wedding theme as laid back glamour. They chose a classic colour scheme of white with gold accents running through their invitations, bridal party outfits, flowers and decor to compliment the stunning gold dining room at Markree Castle.
Robyn wore the Harlow gown by Australian luxury bridal brand Made With Love. The whimsical and romantic gown featured a plunging low back and spectacular train, covered in hand sewn 3D textured lace with a subtle sparkle. Robyn wore the matching Harlow veil, a single layer, 3m cathedral length veil with 3D lace flutters. Accessories included Jimmy Choo Metz heeled sandals and an ivory pearl clutch.
Conor wore a subtly patterned black tuxedo style suit with satin lapels, a satin bow tie and black monk shoes.
Groomsmen wore matching suits to the groom with a satin tie and monk shoes. Bridesmaids wore gold satin dresses with a flattering V neck and ruching detail, barely there sandals in white and gold and pearl jewelry.
Robyn and Conor loved their wedding ceremony, saying it was really special to them. Here’s what they loved about it:
“We spent a lot of time researching readings, prayers, poems and music to ensure the ceremony really reflected us as a couple. Our priest Fr Drumm was incredibly supportive in helping us to plan our ceremony and even included a story linking the North West of Ireland to the North East of England, which was such a lovely surprise for us on the day! We also had our Mums read a poem, ‘The Art of Marriage’ by Wilfred Arlan Peterson at the end of our ceremony.”
From the moment they got engaged, Robyn and Conor knew that Markree Castle was their dream wedding venue. In fact, it was the first and only venue they viewed! Here’s what they say about it:
“The award winning exclusive hire castle and grounds are romantic, grand and luxurious yet still feel relaxed. That is probably down to the incredible staff who create such a wonderful warm atmosphere at Markree. Our wedding co-ordinator Deirdre was outstanding in supporting us through each step of the panning process and ensuring everything ran smoothly on the day. Both food obsessed, food was incredibly important to us on our big day. The chef Lee was so helpful in working with us to produce a bespoke five course banquet and the food really was exceptional!”
For entertainment, they had a Kardashian style open photo booth which was a huge hit with the guests! They skipped the traditional band and instead opted for a DJ and Sax. All their guests were dancing from the minute the DJ began all the way to the very end of the night.
We love hearing what newlyweds’ favourite memories were from their Big Day. This is what Robyn and Conor said:
“Our favourite memory was in the outdoor courtyard, just after our first dance, looking into the crowd of all our beloved family and friends, sparklers in hand, dancing under the stars. Everyone had the biggest smiles on their faces and that was exactly what we always hoped for.”
Newlyweds give fantastic wedding planning advice! Here is Robyn and Conor’s:
“Our advice for other couples would be to plan YOUR perfect day, whatever that may be. One thing we learned through planning a wedding in a pandemic is to not worry about things that are out of your control!”
Suppliers
Ceremony venue: St. Columba’s Church Rosses Point Sligo | Reception venue: Markree Castle Sligo | Photographer: Andrew Kilfeather | Videographer: Wanderlust Weddings | Wedding singer: Saoirse Murray | Reception singer: Peter Mooney | DJ and Saxophonist: Midlands DJs | Hair: Katie Simpson Kreation Hairdressing | Makeup: Aisling Leydon Makeup Academy | Couple’s outfits: Suit – Skopes, Shirt and bow tie – Hugo Boss, Shoes – ASOS, Gown and veil – Made with Love, Heels – Jimmy Choo, Clutch – Allure | Wedding party outfits: Suits, shirts and ties – Skopes, Shoes – ASOS, Dresses – Pretty Lavish, Shoes – ASOS, Jewellery – Orelia London, Clutches – Katie Loxton | Cake: McG Cakes | Stationery: Red Berry Print | Jewellery/rings: Goldsmiths Jewellers | Flowers: The Flower Shed | Photobooth: Photobooth Guys
