Karyn's Day: Ireland 2nd Report The Wedding

Phew! An event and a half!!

I left you NYE afternoon. As it happened, the groom (my nephew Jonathan, Colin's eldest son) had arranged that we have drinks that night at Cabra Castle, approx 10 mins from Carrickmacross. We arrived en masse, up the impressive driveway to the fairytale castle. There was room for us in a side room and many decided to have their meal there as well. The gold and burgundy Christmas Tree was stunning. Near to 9pm we returned to our hotel where the kitchen was still open and Tony, Gary and myself opted for a light meal. Decided to not see in the New Year although live music was scheduled to begin at 11pm. Glad that we could not hear it in our room.

Excitement pervaded the next morning at breakfast as this was The Wedding Day. We all needed to vacate our rooms, leave all of our luggage in a designated room, be dressed for the event and carry a small overnight bag as we were all staying at the venue. At 1.30pm the bus arrived and we were off. An hour's ride and we arrived at another fairytale venue, Ballymagarvey Village. Originally a mill site that housed all workers and their needs, it was now a self-contained reception venue. Truly beautiful with manicured gardens against the attractive stone buildings. The Christmas decorations were an added bonus. We gathered in a bar area for pre-ceremony drinks (!!!) and then were directed to the upstairs chapel. Amy's parents and her brother had been married in the very grand Catholic church in town. Amy and Jono had a 15 minute celebrant service that included a bridesmaid singing Wedding Day from a Celtic Women album. Quite mesmerising. Before we knew it they were Mr and Mrs Roberts. While the photo thing was happening, we were in The Manor House having drinks and finger food.

Next, a wander along the cobbled pathway for the Wedding Breakfast. A few photos of the outside magical setting at night time before we gaped at the lavish reception room. An excellent pianist was providing the background music. Speeches first. They lasted quite awhile with both Fathers reflecting upon the Irish/Aussie connection. Jono and his Best Man, brother Blake, were eloquent and sincere. It was a pleasure to listen to them all. A high class meal followed, delivered with military -like precision. A team of five would emerge from the kitchen, walk crisply to each table, position themselves behind two guests and upon signal place the meals on the table. Most impressive. Plates were retrieved in a similar fashion.
After the meal we were treated to a display of Irish dancing presented by a professional troupe. Then the band played. At 1am it was the DJ's turn. Tony and I opted for an early retreat, but the fun became heightened, being finally over at 3am. Gary's videos painted a vibrant picture of the goings on...a phrase used deliberately!

Back into the Manor House for breakfast, utilising quality decorated crockery...not utilitarian white.

I wandered the House taking photos of the exquisite Christmas decorations. It takes them a week to assemble them, during which the site is closed. On the bus at 12.15pm and back to The Shirley Hotel. The general agreement was that the Wedding of Jono and Amy was...perfect.

Time for a restful afternoon before we meet at another pub, within walking distance, for our final arranged meal with the group before many, including The Horns, leave tomorrow.

"Memorable" seems a tame word to sum up this truly special event, planned between distant continents.