Nestled amid woodlands, the grand 18th-century Manor House of Castlemartyr Resort was the fabulous venue for the wedding of program manager Olivia Worth to fund accounting Eoin Murphy on the 15th of June 2024. Captured by Sarah Kate Photography, the pastel pink accents feel fresh against the rich summer landscape.”
The couple was introduced on New Year’s Eve 2019 in Cork City by their future groomsman and bridesmaid, Eoin and Hope. Just a few weeks later, the two had their first date at Dwyers, and from there, the rest is history.
"Eoin proposed on our very first Christmas in our new home in 2023. Since we usually spend the day with family, we have a tradition of exchanging gifts on Christmas Eve. I thought we were finished unwrapping presents when Eoin said, “I just have one more.” He disappeared into the hallway, and I heard him unzip his golf bag. When he returned, he was holding a small brown box. That is when he got down on one knee and asked the question. It was the most magical moment, followed by the most joyful celebrations with our friends and family."
About nine months before the wedding, Olivia began a skincare journey with her makeup artist and aesthetics practitioner, Portrait by Jessica. "At Elite Laser Aesthetics in Bishopstown, I had a series of treatments, including a Hydrafacial, an Obagi Blue Peel, and microneedling." For her day-of fragrance, she wore her favourite Jo Malone scent, Blackberry & Bay, while Eoin chose Cypress & Grapevine.
Olivia's mum wore a Ronald Joyce gown on her wedding day, so that felt like the obvious jumping-off point for her own search. "When I heard that Perfect Day Bridal in Lurgan was previewing the 2024/2025 Ronald Joyce collection, we made the five-hour trip to Belfast." Although she was not expecting to find the dress that day, it was love at first sight!
"With a Black Tie dress code, we knew Eoin would wear a tuxedo. He chose a made-to-measure tuxedo from Saville in Cork City, where Lukas guided us through every step. We also selected matching tuxedos for the groomsmen from there."
For her bridal party, Oliva asked her long-time college friend Fiona, her cousin Alison, and Hope, who introduced the couple in the first place! "I envisioned pink and white tones, with one-shoulder dresses. After exploring a few shops and trying online options, I visited Dresscode in Dublin. Their dresses were exceptional in quality, could be made to measure, and included in-house tailoring. They were exactly what I had imagined. "
"Our church ceremony took place in my local parish, the same church where I made my First Holy Communion. My favourite moment was exchanging vows. You could feel the joy and excitement in the air, and standing there with Eoin, following the steps we had so carefully planned, was simply unforgettable."
"We chose Castlemartyr Resort for our reception and drinks. It had everything, from beautiful grounds, a golf course, a pool and spa, to incredible staff and a welcoming atmosphere the moment you arrive. I loved that we could host our reception in the Manor House, which is stunning. We were also lucky that in June, the venue hosts a Gormley art exhibition, adding an extra layer of charm to the day."
"For the ceremony, we had The Wedding Duo, Orla and Niall, and for the reception drinks, the Cascade String Trio. The Stars band provided our evening entertainment. Orla was a massive help in guiding me through the ceremony, music, and hymn choices. I wanted the reception's strings to match the Manor House atmosphere, and one guest even said it felt like a scene from Bridgerton. The Stars came highly recommended and did not disappoint, keeping the dance floor full all night."
"Our best decision was choosing Castlemartyr. The staff were invaluable throughout the entire planning process, the food was exceptional, and they made us feel completely supported on the day. We loved every single moment and would do it all again tomorrow if we could."
- Gráinne