Speech and Language Therapist Naomi married Andrew in a gorgeous rustic-themed celebration at The Station House Hotel in August.
Photographer: Solstice Visuals
The Meeting
Naomi first crossed eyes with Andrew in the Christian Union in Trinity College, Dublin. Sparks started to fly on the 16th of January 2017, when she was having a disastrous printing incident. Andrew swooped in to save the day by helping print her linguistics essay. The pair had their first “unofficial date” in Oolong Flower Power (which is now unfortunately closed) but it wasn’t until that May when Andrew decided to finally “properly” ask Naomi out whilst they were on a walk-in Howth.
The Proposal
On 27th December 2020, the couple were preparing to head into another lockdown when Andrew enlisted Naomi's sister and brother-in-law for one of the worlds’ finest proposals. While Andrew was distracting her, Damaris and Gelu were setting up the most beautiful candle and moon-lit proposal on Balscadden Bay Beach. Walking down the steep steps to the beach, the bride to be was nervous about what was about to transpire. Bringing her to the foot of the shore, Andrew (who was incredibly nervous) mentioned he had a poem to read. 15 stanzas later, he finally popped the question. Of course, Naomi said, “Yes!” There happened to also be a crowd of individuals swimming that day, so they had a mini audience along for the ride who gave rapturous applause when Naomi gave him her answer!
The Beauty Prep
The night before, Naomi's sister Leah treated her to a lovely bubble bath, and they all did face masks to relax before the big day. In the morning, the bridal party all got their hair and make-up done in Rina Steele Hair & Beauty. Dorina Sirbu did a great job on Naomi's hair and make-up and getting everybody ready for the big day! The couple exchanged perfumes as gifts to each other on the morning of the wedding. Now they get to be reminded of their special day whenever they smell them! Andrew gifted Naomi “I Want Choo” by Jimmy Choo and she gave him “Million” by Paco Rabanne.
The Dress
This was quite a stressful one to find in the height of restrictions, but it was all made easier by the wonderful girls, Diana and Oana in Angelo Bridal, Dublin. Naomi did a virtual consultation as the shops were closed, and then they brought a range of dresses home for her to try on. It was so magical getting the chance to try on dresses at home, and also with such a short time frame, the girls were amazing at helping Naomi find her dream dress from the Madeline Gardner New York collection.
The Suit
Andrew found his 3-piece black suit in James Herron Menswear on Dawson Street. Much praise is given to David, who assisted Andrew in picking his suit and helping him look like the finest groom in the world.
The Venue
Amidst the chaos of the third lockdown in Ireland, the two were somewhat stressed about finding a venue considering that they were unable to see any in person. Further restrictions at the time meant Naomi & Andrew did not know what the future held come August. They had multiple virtual viewings, but the outdoor, fairy-lit ceremony space of the Station House Hotel captivated their hearts. Although the refurbishment of the hotel was not entirely complete, the two trusted that all would be perfect come their wedding day! The staff were amazing on the day, particularly Sarah, Michelle and Sophie who were so helpful. The bridesmaids and Naomi had a lovely afternoon tea before the ceremony, which gave them a chance to relax. There was gorgeous weather on the day which allowed them to have the ceremony at the turntable. Jeffrey Hay and Rob Millar led a wonderful service for all of the guests, while Young Chae Soon, Daithi Greene and Joanna Burke provided the most beautiful music during our ceremony.
The Entertainment
While Covid restrictions did not allow Naomi & Andrew to have the traditional forms of entertainment one might have on a wedding day, they did enjoy a sparkler lit first dance on the terrace. Following this, the guests enjoyed dancing the night away to ABBA, Earth, Wind & Fire and the Jackson 5. Thank you to Sarah Isip for the boogie-licious playlists!
The Bridesmaids
As the second of four girls, Naomi had all three of her beautiful sisters Damaris, Sarah and Leah as bridesmaids and her dear friend Rachel as the maid of honour. Naomi got their dresses from Vila which suited the forest themed wedding. She would have been lost without the girls, from a lovely (Covid-friendly) hen to her bridal shower in church and helping with all the details coming up to the wedding. Furthermore, Naomi is really grateful for their encouragement and for having them by her side. One of the highlights was Rachel’s speech and Naomi's sister's surprise song speech of Andrew and her relationship to the tune of Super Trouper.
The Best Decision
Obviously, the best decision was getting married, despite the stress of Covid. Aside from that, choosing Solstice Visuals for photography and videography was a fantastic decision. Ryan and Conor were very calming and easy-going throughout the day, the couple barely noticed they were there. They definitely captured the emotions of the day, which Naomi & Andrew are really grateful for. They were so flexible and went above and beyond, the newlyweds highly recommend them.
The Worst Decision
While there are always things that fall through the cracks or go disastrously wrong on the day, there are no decisions in hindsight that the two regret making. At the end of the day, you are getting married! So any little thing that is missed or large disaster that might occur does not take away from the joy and happiness you experience when marrying the one you love.
