Fascinators for the Gals and Bowties for the Guys: Jessica + Ian at Markree Castle

You won’t want to miss this destination wedding…

Jessica and Ian planned a lavish celebration, bringing their friends and family from near and far, to the gorgeous Markree Castle. Their three-day July wedding was complete with Irish dancers, four different musical acts and even lawn games. This is definitely one we would have loved to have seen up close!

Take a look for yourself and be inspired by Jessica and Ian’s stunning wedding day at Markree Castle…

The Beginning

“We met at work through our work many years ago.  In 2010 Ian relocated to Seattle through his job. Jessica was happy to include him in her social circle as he adjusted to his new life abroad. Their friendship turned romantic and Ian asked Jessica out on their first official date. It was a low-key Italian event in a small part of Seattle called Bellevue – they officially classed themselves as an item and have not looked back since. They dated through all of the years until 2016 where Ian finally popped the question! Throughout those years Jessica and Ian have formed a loving relationship and built a wonderful home life together in Seattle & Lake Chelan for both themselves, family, friends, Luke, Laila and their new Bernedoodle named London.”

The Proposal

“In April 2016 Ian planned a trip of a lifetime to the Maldives and a surprise engagement on a private island where he proposed. It almost never happened as rain stopped play on 2 occasions with the island trip being called off because of bad weather.  On the 3^rd attempt Ian managed to get down on one knee in the middle of the Indian Ocean with a little help from some ‘will you marry me’ artwork in the sand and get the job done!  He had planned everything perfectly from the food, champagne, location and of course the ring!”

The Venue

“We made the decision to have a destination wedding and we choose Ireland due to the fact both of Ian’s parents were from there and we knew most Americans would welcome the trip to the Green Isle.  After touring a few venues and castles in Ireland we decided on the Markree for two reasons.  One because it was Ian’s mothers home town and two it was exclusive.

The exclusivity, the beauty and the staff.  The Markree had recently been renovated and the attention to detail was unparallel.  The integrity to the original structure era and curated pieces was very special. The service from the Markree team was also exceptional – nothing was too much trouble – we’d highly recommend the venue to anyone thinking of getting married in Ireland.”

Wedding Attire

‘Semi-Formal, castle chic is what we called it. ? Hats and fascinators for the gals and bowties for the guys.’

Trends & Themes

“We surprised our guests with Irish dancers, we had 4 different music performers, we had three exclusive days at the castle where we celebrated each day. We hosted a welcome cruise and dinner at the castle, our wedding day, and a BBQ in the garden. We had falconry, lawn games and again more music.”

Special Moments

“Everything was so special! The ceremony, the traditional Celtic hand tying, our readings, all of the music, the Irish dancers.  Everything was memorial and special in its own way – and the live singer during the ceremony made it emotional and special, and the band from Dublin topped it off for everyone in the evening – excellent music throughout the event.”

Supplier Information

• Venue:

  Markree Castle

• Photographer:

  Nicola Webster Photography

• Band:

  Jungle Boogie

• Bridal Shop/Designer:

  Mea Marie Altelier

• Florist:

  The French Touch

• Wedding Planner:

  Elegant Events by Collette

• Videographer:

  Cathal Farrelly

• Wedding Cake :

  The Cake Cuppery

• Wedding Music:

  Eleanor Kenny

• Wedding Music :

  Miles Graham

• Wedding Music :

  Sinead Conway