One of the huge advantages of planning an intimate wedding is you can explore some of the more exquisite locations to host your dream day. In Ireland, we’re spoilt for gorgeous castles to serve as your backdrop. We love Ashley and Kyle’s intimate wedding at the incomparable Ashford Castle. A bright sunny day illuminated the soft color palette of soft pink, eucalyptus greens, and ivory. Ashley was a vision in her incredible lace detailed Ysa Makino gown while Kyle played every part of the handsome groom; and a garden setting in full bloom decorated with glorious floral arch served as stunning focal piece for the intimate ceremony.  This 13th century castle-turned-luxury 5-star hotel hosted the entire event, from morning pampering to mutli-course award winning reception dinner, and truly gave Ashley and Kyle together with their guests an experience they won’t soon forget. “Our wedding was absolutely perfect for us: it was intimate, elegant, bright and we wouldn’t have changed a thing!” recalls Ashley. There to capture the day so beautifully was Wim of In Love Photography.  And check out the feature on The Vow.

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A Christmas Proposal

They met in medical school — their very first class at med school, actually. Complete opposites — Kyle was talkative and outgoing while Ashley was quiet and reserved — they became best friends over the next year as they studied and worked together.  Eventually they started dating and through the next eight years, their paths crossed and grew together through residency and fellowship.  Christmas Day arrived and all were gathered at Ashley’s family’s home, the setting a bustling sea of holiday cheer, Christmas decor, and presents opening.  And there, among the sea of wrapping paper, Kyle dropped to one knee and asked Ashley to marry him with a beautiful ring. She said yes and a wedding was in the works!

A Castle Wedding

Ashley and Kyle knew right away they wanted a destination wedding  They originally considered eloping abroad, but after some thought and wanting their closest loved ones to share in the day, they felt an intimate destination wedding in a spectacular and memorable venue would be the perfect compromise. They wanted to keep it small and special, focusing on the details and overall experience for themselves and their guests. “My mom and I went on a vacation to Ireland to find the perfect castle venue for the day,” recalls Ashley. “We were able to visit six special and beautiful castles, meet wonderful people and have amazing food. But after spending one night in Ashford, I knew it was the one. The atmosphere is unique, elegant and makes you feel like you stepped back in time to old world perfection.”

The Details

Ashley and Kyle were a little nervous at the concept of planning a wedding via email from so far away.  “The vision I had is hard enough to explain and create when you can pick items out in person,” says Ashley, “so I wasn’t sure what the day would bring. Waterlily Weddings helped guide the couple throughout the planning process and managed the vendors to bring their vision to life.  “It turned out even better than we hope!” gushed Ashley.  “To see the ceremony and flowers and cake and music… everything come to life was truly amazing.”

The traditional ceremony took place in the castle’s incredible gardens. Tucked away with the castle in backdrop, it helped create that intimate space Ashley and Kyle wanted that was at once felt bright and alive with the garden in full green and floral bloom.  To add a focal point, a beautiful floral arch fixed with fragrant roses and garden flowers shined in the summer light. A unity candle and handfasting helped round out the details. Kyle and Ashley headed off to explore the grounds a bit with their photographer Wim while the guests made their way up to the castle for dinner.  An private room with cozy fireplace was adorned with more fresh flowers and romantic candle light, glistening off the freshly polished candelabras and china. The day was structured to feel easy and flow at a relaxed pace, very much taking in the relaxed countryside vibe but with an air of posh and elegance befitting royalty.

A Piece of Advice

“Pick your priorities from the beginning, and don’t let anyone persuade you into something you don’t want!”

Ashley and Kyle — we wish you both a glorious future together full of success and fortune and more bright, sunny days ahead.  Congratulations!

For more information on the talented vendors involved and to get started planning your dream castle wedding, CONTACT US today!