The Ultimate Wedding Checklist: Your Timeline for a Stress-Free Summer Wedding

Congratulations! You’re getting married this summer, and the countdown is officially on. Whether you’re tying the knot in a grand Irish castle, a scenic countryside venue, or an intimate coastal setting, there’s a lot to organise in the final months leading up to the big day.

To help you stay on track, we’ve put together the ultimate wedding planning timeline, covering everything from final vendor payments to last-minute beauty treatments. Follow this guide to ensure everything runs smoothly, so you can focus on enjoying your special day.

3–4 Months Before the Wedding

• Send Out Invitations – If you haven’t already, now is the time to send invitations. Give guests plenty of notice, especially those travelling from abroad.

• Arrange Dress Fittings – Ensure your wedding dress, bridesmaids’ dresses, and suits are being altered if needed.

• Book Hair and Makeup Trials – Test out different styles to see what suits you best. Bring inspiration photos and be clear about your vision.

• Confirm Accommodation – If you’ve reserved a hotel block for guests, confirm details with the hotel and remind guests to book.

• Plan the Honeymoon – Ensure your passports are valid, book any last-minute accommodation, and start planning your honeymoon wardrobe.

• Decide on Ceremony Details – Meet with your celebrant, priest, or registrar to finalise readings, music, and any special traditions.

2 Months Before the Wedding

• Confirm Guest Numbers – Ask guests to RSVP (if they haven’t already) and follow up with anyone who hasn’t responded.

• Create the Seating Plan – Once RSVPs are in, start organising your seating plan. Be mindful of family dynamics and group guests strategically.

• Order Wedding Favours – If you’re giving favours, order them now to avoid any last-minute stress.

• Sort Transport – Arrange transportation for you, your wedding party, and any guests who may need it.

• Finalise Music Choices – Confirm playlists or song choices with your DJ, band, or ceremony musicians.

1 Month Before the Wedding

• Pay Final Vendor Balances – Most vendors will require final payment around this time. Ensure you budget for:

• Venue (€2,000–€10,000+ depending on location and package)

• Catering (€50–€150 per person)

• Photographer/Videographer (€1,500–€4,000)

• Band/DJ (€1,000–€3,000)

• Flowers (€500–€3,000)

• Transport (€300–€1,500)

• Final Dress and Suit Fittings – Ensure all adjustments are completed.

• Create a Wedding Day Timeline – Share this with your vendors, bridal party, and anyone involved in the day’s logistics.

• Write Your Vows – If writing your own, now’s the time to perfect them.

• Confirm Menu with Caterer – Ensure all dietary requirements are accounted for.

• Print Wedding Stationery – This includes seating charts, place cards, and order of service booklets.

2 Weeks Before the Wedding

• Confirm Final Guest Count – Send this to your venue and caterer.

• Have a Hair and Beauty Prep Week – Book any facials, waxing, or skincare treatments. Avoid last-minute new treatments to prevent reactions.

• Break in Your Wedding Shoes – Wear them around the house to avoid blisters on the day.

• Delegate Tasks – Assign someone to handle gifts, oversee the guestbook, or manage any last-minute surprises.

• Pack for the Honeymoon – If heading off straight after the wedding, start packing now.

1 Week Before the Wedding

• Confirm All Bookings – Double-check arrangements with all vendors.

• Rehearse the Ceremony – If possible, run through the ceremony with your bridal party.

• Prepare Emergency Kit – Include essentials like painkillers, plasters, a sewing kit, and tissues.

• Get Your WeddingGreen Folder – Ensure all legal documents are sorted.

The Day Before the Wedding

• Relax and Enjoy! – Spend time with loved ones, get a good night’s sleep, and trust that all your planning has paid off.

Now, all that’s left to do is walk down the aisle and soak in every magical moment. Wishing you a beautiful Irish wedding and a lifetime of happiness!

Drop us an email and we will send out the PDF printable checklist.

Understand Wedding Florist Cost: The Hidden Beauty Behind the Blooms

Wedding flowers are undeniably one of the most stunning aspects of any wedding, yet they’re also one of the most intricate. Unlike a pair of shoes or a photography package, wedding flowers aren’t an off-the-shelf purchase. When you buy shoes, the price tag clearly tells you what you’re getting. A photographer will explain their pricing in detail, outlining hours on-site, editing processes, and any optional add-ons. While photography packages might be more complex than shoes, they’re still easier to quantify compared to flowers.

With flowers, many variables influence the cost. The size of the arrangements, the style you choose, the seasonality of the blooms, does it coincide with a high demand season (Mother’s Day, Valentines Day) and the quantity required all play a role. For example, rose prices can range from €1.50 to €7 per stem depending on the variety and source. That’s not the end of it—those roses might need three days of conditioning in a studio to ensure they bloom perfectly for your big day. This involves maintaining the right temperature, daily water changes, and expert care.

Some flowers, on the other hand, have a much shorter shelf life and must be used within 24 hours of being cut. Mixing flowers with different care needs means multiple deliveries and suppliers, adding to the complexity. Managing all these details requires experience, knowledge, and a deep understanding of flowers.

The Labour Behind the Magic

Here’s a glimpse into the hidden work that goes into even the smallest wedding:

• Initial consultation: 1 hour

• Creating and designing your proposal: 1–2 hours

• Revisions: Time varies

• Ordering flowers: 1 hour

• Receiving and conditioning flowers: 2 hours

• Crafting your bridal bouquet and arrangements: 5 hours

• Final conditioning, delivery, and setup: 2 hours

That’s a minimum of 12 hours of skilled labour before the first flower even reaches your hands. At Ireland’s minimum wage of €13.70, this alone would cost €164.40. However, florists are highly trained professionals whose expertise deserves to be compensated at a rate reflecting their experience— above the living wage of €14.75.

And that’s just the labour. The flowers themselves are an additional cost, which increases based on the size and complexity of your wedding.

The Overhead Costs You Don’t See

Whether you work with a large floral chain or a small local business, all florists face operating expenses. These include rent, vans, fuel, electricity, phones, laptops, internet, website hosting, insurance (van, liability, etc.), tools, taxes, and more. These overheads are factored into pricing to keep the business running smoothly.

Moreover, flower farms and wholesalers often have minimum order requirements. If your florist doesn’t meet these thresholds, they might need to order extra, unnecessary products or switch to a supplier who charges more per item—both of which can drive up costs. Small orders also often come with delivery fees, further adding to the total.

Why It’s Worth It

Your wedding flowers aren’t just decorations—they’re works of art created by skilled hands, tailored to your vision, and handled with care every step of the way. When you invest in a professional florist, you’re not just paying for flowers; you’re paying for expertise, time, and the ability to make your dream wedding come to life.

Understanding these behind-the-scenes details helps shed light on why wedding flowers cost what they do. They’re more than just a beautiful part of your day—they’re a testament to craftsmanship, artistry, and dedication.

What to do if your Wedding is interrupted by Storm Éowyn: A Guide for Couples

A wedding is one of the most important days of your life, and having it disrupted by unforeseen circumstances like a severe storm can be devastating. With Ireland bracing for Storm Éowyn and a lockdown imminent, couples due to marry tomorrow face an unexpected challenge. After months of careful planning and preparation, it’s difficult to imagine postponing or changing plans last-minute. But with safety being paramount, there are still options to consider. Here’s a guide to help navigate this challenging situation.

1. Assess the Situation: Safety First

With the storm set to work its way across Ireland from 2 a.m. for 12 to 15 hours, it’s critical to prioritize the safety of everyone involved.

• Travel Risks: Roads may be closed or unsafe, and public transport could be disrupted.

• Venue Safety: Contact the venue immediately to confirm if they can operate during the storm or if safety concerns will force them to close.

• Guest Communication: Notify guests as soon as possible about the situation and any changes to plans. Group chats, emails, or even social media updates can help spread the word efficiently.

2. Discuss Options with Your Venue and Suppliers

Your venue and suppliers are your allies in this situation. Most will have dealt with unexpected disruptions before and may offer flexibility or alternative solutions.

What to Ask the Venue:

• Postponement Policy: Can your wedding be rescheduled? Are there available dates in the near future? Many venues have policies in place for weather-related disruptions.

• Smaller Ceremony: If travel conditions improve later in the day, is it possible to host a scaled-down ceremony with local guests?

• Virtual Options: Can the venue support a live-streamed ceremony for guests unable to attend?

What to Ask Suppliers:

• Florists: Can the flowers be preserved for a future date? Some florists may offer storage or replacements for a later ceremony.

• Cake Designers: Can the cake be delivered on a new date? If not, is it possible to freeze or preserve parts of it?

• Photographer/Videographer: Can they accommodate a new date or help document the day in a smaller, more intimate setting?

3. Will Insurance Cover the Disruption?

If you purchased wedding insurance, review the policy immediately. Look for clauses regarding “adverse weather conditions” and check for coverage related to:

• Venue closure due to safety concerns.

• Supplier cancellations or delays.

• Guest non-attendance due to travel restrictions.

If you’re unsure, contact your insurance provider directly for clarification.

4. Creative Alternatives If Postponement Isn’t Possible

For couples who don’t want to wait or whose options are limited, there are still ways to celebrate under the circumstances:

• Host an Intimate Ceremony: If the venue allows and conditions are safe, proceed with a smaller ceremony for local guests. A larger reception can be planned later.

• Move to a Virtual Ceremony: Exchange vows via video call with friends and family tuning in from their homes. It may not be what you envisioned, but it can still be meaningful and memorable.

• Celebrate at Home: If travel is impossible, create a romantic evening at home with your partner. Dress up, share your first dance, and cut a small cake.

5. Managing the Emotional Impact

Postponing or altering your wedding plans is heartbreaking, and it’s okay to feel upset. Lean on your partner, family, and friends for support. Keep in mind that your marriage is about the lifelong journey you’re embarking on together, not just one day.

Recommendations: How Couples Can Move Forward

1. Act Quickly: Reach out to your venue, suppliers, and guests as soon as possible to discuss next steps.

2. Stay Flexible: Be open to changes, whether it’s a new date, a smaller celebration, or virtual options.

3. Document the Story: If you go ahead with a small ceremony or even a day of waiting out the storm together, document the experience—it’ll be a unique chapter in your love story.

4. Plan a Bigger Celebration Later: Once the storm passes, you can plan a belated reception or vow renewal to celebrate with everyone who couldn’t make it.

Final Thoughts

Storm Éowyn may have disrupted your wedding plans, but love has a way of overcoming even the most difficult obstacles. Whether you reschedule, celebrate differently, or adapt your plans, this moment will become part of your story as a couple. It may not be the day you imagined, but it can still be a day filled with love, resilience, and hope.

Stay safe, and remember: the storm will pass, but your love endures.

Keeps up to date with local weather

https://www.rte.ie/news/weather/headlines/

https://www.accuweather.com/en/ie/dublin/

The Newly Engaged Couple’s Guide: What to Book First for Your Wedding

Congratulations on your engagement! This is such an exciting time, and with all the joy comes the big question: Where do we start? The planning process can feel overwhelming, but the key to success is prioritisation. Here’s a guide to help you focus on booking the essentials first, ensuring you secure the suppliers who will make your day unforgettable.

Step 1: Set Your Date and Choose a Venue

The very first thing to book is your venue. Your venue will determine your wedding date and set the tone for the entire day. Whether you’re dreaming of a countryside barn, a luxurious hotel, or an intimate garden ceremony, start your search early. Venues book up quickly, especially for popular dates and weekends.

Once you’ve secured your venue and date, you’ll have a foundation to move forward with the rest of your planning.

Step 2: Book Your Key Suppliers

With your date and venue confirmed, it’s time to focus on the suppliers who are in high demand and typically get booked far in advance:

1. Photographer and Videographer

Your wedding day will fly by, but photographs and videos will help you relive those memories for a lifetime. Start by researching professionals whose style aligns with your vision, and reach out with an enquiry.

2. Florist

Flowers bring life and beauty to your wedding day, whether it’s stunning bouquets or breathtaking table arrangements. Florists can only take on a limited number of weddings, so act quickly to secure your favourite.

3. Hair and Makeup Artists

A skilled hair and makeup team will ensure you look and feel your best. As these professionals are often booked months or even years in advance, don’t delay in securing their services.

Step 3: What to Include in Your Enquiries

When contacting potential suppliers, providing the right information upfront can save time and help them respond effectively. Be sure to include the following in your enquiry:

• Your wedding date

• The venue location(s)

• Estimated guest numbers

• Size of your wedding party (e.g., bridesmaids, groomsmen, parents)

• Any themes, colours, or styles you have in mind

• Other relevant details, such as your overall vision or special requests

The more information you provide, the easier it will be for your suppliers to confirm their availability and offer tailored suggestions.

Step 4: Discuss Your Budget

Many couples feel hesitant to share their budget with suppliers, but transparency is key. Your florist, photographer, or hair stylist won’t judge you—they’ll simply use the information to help you make the most of your investment. Suppliers can guide you towards options that fit within your price range, whether it’s alternative flower choices, scaled-back packages, or other creative solutions.

Final Thoughts

Once you’ve booked your venue and key suppliers, you can breathe a little easier and start planning the finer details, like décor, catering, and entertainment. The most important thing to remember is that your wedding should reflect you as a couple. Start with the essentials, ask plenty of questions, and trust your team of professionals to bring your vision to life.

Happy planning!

Savour the Season: Tips for engaged couples to enjoy their last Christmas before the Wedding

Planning a wedding is one of the most exciting yet demanding chapters of life. With 2024 winding down, many couples tying the knot in 2025 may feel tempted to let wedding planning consume every moment of the festive season. However, your last Christmas and New Year’s as an engaged couple are opportunities to connect, celebrate, and create unforgettable memories before the whirlwind of 2025 begins.

Here are some ways to hit pause on planning, embrace the magic of the holidays, and truly enjoy this special time:

1. Set Boundaries for Wedding Talk

• Create a Planning-Free Zone: Declare Christmas Eve, Christmas Day, and New Year’s Eve as “wedding-free days.” Focus solely on celebrating and being present with loved ones.

• Limit Wedding Discussions: Politely ask family and friends to hold off on wedding questions. It’s perfectly fine to let them know you’re taking a short break from planning to enjoy the holidays.

2. Make Holiday Traditions Your Own

• Blend Your Families’ Traditions: Whether it’s baking mince pies, watching classic Christmas films, or attending a candlelit service, embrace the joy of combining each other’s holiday customs.

• Start a New Tradition Together: Begin something uniquely yours, like making a personalised bauble, writing each other holiday letters, or setting up a themed New Year’s Eve dinner at home.

3. Plan for Connection, Not Perfection

• Keep It Simple: Instead of stressing over elaborate holiday plans, focus on activities that let you connect—cosy nights in, scenic winter walks, or a romantic dinner.

• Reflect on the Journey: Use this time to look back on your relationship. What were the best moments of your engagement? What are you most excited for in 2025?

4. Exchange Thoughtful, Wedding-Free Gifts

• Celebrate Your Love Outside Wedding Planning: Skip practical wedding-related gifts like décor or registry items. Instead, opt for something meaningful—tickets to a show, a scrapbook of your engagement, or a book you’ve both wanted to read.

• Give the Gift of Time: Plan a pre-wedding getaway in early 2025 or a simple, stress-free date after the holidays.

5. Indulge in Festive Romance

• Go on a Holiday Date Night: Visit a Christmas market, tour holiday light displays, or go ice skating. Celebrate the season with moments that feel straight out of a rom-com.

• Share a New Year’s Eve Countdown Kiss: Make this New Year’s Eve special by focusing on your love rather than your to-do list. Reflect on the past year and toast to the exciting future ahead.

6. Lean Into Gratitude

• Write Thank-You Notes Together: If loved ones have helped with wedding preparations or showered you with engagement gifts, use the holidays to express your gratitude.

• Appreciate Each Other: Take a moment to thank your fiancé(e) for the partnership you’ve built. Celebrate how far you’ve come together.

7. Capture the Memories

• Take Photos and Videos: Your last festive season before becoming a married couple is a once-in-a-lifetime moment. Capture it with candid photos, a Christmas photoshoot, or a holiday video diary.

• Create a Holiday Memory Box: Save mementos like a Christmas card addressed to “fiancé & fiancée” or a holiday party invitation for your keepsakes.

8. Plan for Rest and Reset

• Prioritise Downtime: The holidays can be hectic, so carve out time to relax and recharge. Enjoy lazy mornings, read together, or binge-watch your favourite shows.

• Set a Wedding Planning Restart Date: Pick a specific day after the holidays to dive back into planning. Knowing when you’ll return to wedding mode can help you fully embrace your time off.

Final Thoughts

Your last festive season as an engaged couple is a special chapter in your love story. By setting aside wedding planning and immersing yourselves in the magic of Christmas and New Year’s, you’ll create memories that strengthen your bond and set the tone for a joyful wedding year ahead.

Remember, the holidays are about love, connection, and celebration. So, park the planning, sip some mulled wine, and revel in this enchanting season together!

Wishing you a merry and love-filled festive season—and an incredible wedding year in 2025!

Embrace the magic of Autumn: Wedding Flowers and Candles for Your Dream Autumn Wedding

Autumn weddings have an undeniable charm. The crisp air, the golden hues, and the cozy, intimate atmosphere make it one of the most romantic times to say “I do.” As nature shows off its richest colors, your wedding should reflect that same beauty and warmth. One of the best ways to capture the essence of the season is by combining lush, autumn-inspired flowers with the soft glow of candles. At Boutique Blooms, we specialize in creating breathtaking floral arrangements that seamlessly blend with autumn’s natural palette, enhanced by the glow of flickering candlelight.

Here’s why autumn flowers and candles are the perfect match for your autumn wedding, and how our boutique designs will make your celebration unforgettable.

1. The Perfect Palette: Deep, Warm Hues

Autumn is synonymous with rich, bold colors. Think deep burgundies, burnt oranges, golden yellows, and warm browns, all layered together to create a cozy, elegant atmosphere. At Boutique Blooms, we specialize in curating florals that embody the richness of the season. Consider some of these stunning blooms for your autumn celebration:

• Dahlias: Available in shades ranging from creamy whites to deep burgundy, dahlias add texture and dimension to any bouquet.

• Chrysanthemums: The quintessential autumn flower, ‘mums bring a pop of vibrant color to your floral arrangements.

• Roses in Autumn Tones: Classic roses in burnt orange, mustard yellow, and deep plum provide a timeless touch.

• Amaranthus and Pampas Grass: For a natural, wild aesthetic, these wispy florals bring movement and softness to bouquets and centerpieces.

Pairing these blooms with accents like eucalyptus, berries, and textured foliage will enhance the depth and contrast, giving your wedding a magical autumnal feel. Each arrangement is custom-designed to reflect the mood and setting of your unique day.

2. Romantic Candlelight: Setting the Scene

While florals bring color and life, candles add that irreplaceable warmth and intimacy. There’s nothing quite like the soft glow of candles to create a romantic ambiance, especially as the sun sets earlier during the autumn months. When it comes to designing your wedding décor, candles can elevate your floral arrangements in a way that feels both luxurious and inviting.

Imagine:

• Candlelit Aisles: Line your ceremony aisle with lanterns or pillar candles in varying heights, nestled among delicate floral arrangements. The flickering light creates an intimate, ethereal path to the altar.

• Candle-Filled Centerpieces: Surround your floral centerpieces with votives and pillar candles. The gentle glow highlights the rich colors of the flowers while adding a sense of warmth to each table.

• Hanging Candle Installations: For a truly dramatic effect, we can suspend floating candles above your reception tables, creating a canopy of light that bathes your entire space in an autumnal glow.

At Boutique Blooms, we seamlessly integrate candles into our floral designs, ensuring your wedding is the perfect blend of elegant florals and dreamy lighting.

3. Unique Autumn-Inspired Floral Arrangements

Autumn is the season for creativity and texture, allowing for floral designs that feel fresh and unique. We love to play with the natural elements that autumn provides, blending traditional blooms with seasonal accents to make your wedding truly special.

Consider some of these distinctive design ideas for your autumn wedding:

• Harvest-Inspired Centerpieces: Incorporate mini pumpkins, gourds, and rustic wood accents alongside lush autumn florals for centerpieces that capture the harvest season.

• Floral Wreaths & Garlands: Instead of traditional table runners, drape your tables with flowing garlands of greenery, accented by autumn flowers and candles. For a showstopping ceremony backdrop, a floral wreath filled with seasonal blooms can frame your vows.

• Bouquets with Texture: Create a bouquet that tells a story. Combining soft petals with bold textures like seed pods, dried grasses, and cascading greenery gives your bridal bouquet an effortless, organic feel.

These elements bring the magic of the outdoors inside, transforming your wedding space into a romantic autumn haven.

4. Why Choose Boutique Blooms for Your Autumn Wedding?

At Boutique Blooms, we understand that your wedding day is one of the most important days of your life. Our team of floral designers is passionate about creating unique, seasonal arrangements that reflect your personal style and vision. Here’s what makes us stand out:

• Tailored Designs: No two weddings are alike, and neither are our arrangements. We work closely with each couple to design florals that perfectly capture the essence of their love story.

• Attention to Detail: Every bouquet, centerpiece, and floral installation is crafted with care, ensuring that every petal is in place and every candle is positioned for maximum effect.

• Local and Seasonal Blooms: We prioritize using locally sourced and in-season flowers, ensuring your arrangements are not only stunning but also sustainable.

Whether you’re dreaming of a cozy, rustic wedding in a barn or an elegant soiree in a candle-lit ballroom, Boutique Blooms will bring your autumn wedding vision to life with our expert floral designs.

5. Book Your Autumn Wedding Consultation Today

Autumn weddings are filled with warmth, romance, and natural beauty. At Boutique Blooms, we love to make the most of this magical season with floral designs that celebrate its colors, textures, and cozy atmosphere. Let us help you create a wedding day that reflects your love and the season’s natural beauty.

Contact us today to schedule your complimentary consultation and let us turn your floral dreams into a breathtaking reality!

Autumn is fleeting, but the memories of your wedding will last a lifetime. With Boutique Blooms by your side, your floral designs and candle-lit decor will create an unforgettable experience for you and your guests.

Photo 1 & 2 taken in Mount Druid

https://mountdruid.ie

Photo taken in The Anglers Rest

https://theanglersrest.ie/wedding-wrights-anglers-rest/

Photo taken in Slane Castle

https://www.slanecastle.ie/weddings/

Slane Castle

Slane Castle sits in the heart of The Boyne Valley, an area steeped in history. Overlooking the River Boyne just a few miles upstream from the site of the famous Battle of the Boyne.

The Castle itself dates back over 300 years and is one of the most exciting historic buildings on the island.  It has been owned by the Conyngham’s family home since 1703.  You will see the family motto over the fire places in the great hall, Over Fork Over. The Castle was remodelled in 1785 to its current design and was nearly lost to a devastating fire in 1991. It was restored over a 10 year period and re-opened in 2001 as a hospitality and accommodation venue. From time to time different generations of the Conynghams reside at the Castle to retain their deep connection with the place. 

Many people world-wide will know Slane castle as a music venue with a great natural amphitheater. Playing host to some work greats, U2, The rolling Stones, Bruce Springsteen, Guns ‘N Roses, Red Hot Chilli Pepper and Harry Styles will play here in 2023.

Besides the ample history and world renowned musical history this castle is a glorious Wedding Venue with its own Slane Whiskey Distillery on site.

The Castle will be exclusively yours to share with your family and friends on your wedding day. (Slane Castle Weddings)

Regardless of the weather or season Slane castle offers a stunning back drop to any wedding. Milder days allow you to enjoy an outdoor reception with champagne and canapés on the lawns with the towering backdrop of the castle to impress your guests. During the cooler months enjoy a romantic reception in the magnificent Great hall or the show stopping Ballroom.  This amazing Neo-Gothic Ballroom was completed in 1821 for the visit of King George IV. The marble statues and the stunning ceiling, all add to the charm of this unique Ballroom, which is an ideal venue for small, informal or intimate

You can explore the Dining room with stunning views down to the River Boyne. The Drawing Room is my personal favourite, it’s pink and flooded with light with dual aspect views. This is a lovely setting for the bridal party to get ready in or for tea and canapés. 

For the more adventurous there is the Castle Courtyard. An outdoor wedding with the castle backdrop with the shelter of the walls makes for an intimate affair and protection from an Irish chill. It also makes a great space for a marquee.

 For a more detailed lok at the spaces Slane Castle has to offer have a look here. You will also find guest capacities and more images.

The bedrooms

I had the privledge on my latest site visit to roam some of the bed rooms too. With names like Lord Lieutenant’s Room and Earl & Countess’ Room you expect grandeur. I saw some stunning examples of four poster beds in rooms that could fit two New York apartments. The height of the ceilings and the unique interior of each room was specular.

The Ball Room

Pandemic view of the front lawn

17 Molesworth

Who needs a new venue when you can hold your wedding in one of the oldest buildings in Dublins fair city. And what’s even better, this venue has recently opened its doors to the public for wedding and events. This venue is 17 Molesworth, the oldest Freemason Lodge in the world.

If like me you know very little about Freemasons, (my mind jumps to secret handshakes, a wink and a nod), well this is your opportunity to get up to speed. Every day at 3pm you can join a tour to learn all about the building and the practices. On my recent visit I learned about the different ranks and levels or masons. Their work is to raise money and make charitable donations. There is so much more to learn so go along. You will also get to see the great hall and the light filled library and their many reception rooms.

If I was venue shopping I would pop along for a tour to scope the spaces out. Being in the heart of the south inner city you will be surprised to learn they even have an outdoor space. The terrace was so bright even on an Irish February morning. I was in awe of the Great hall but I was sold when I saw the library, the light is a photographers dream! This being a smaller room it would not be the best for a large wedding but you will be happy to hear they can cater for up to 180 guests. See more information about No 17 Molesworth here https://hospitality.freemason.ie/event-rooms-2/

If you are interested in hosting your wedding here Aideen and Grace will be only to happy to help you. You can contact them here

https://hospitality.freemason.ie/contact/

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Updated Price Guide

Summer 2022

Every wedding is tailor made to the needs of each couple. To facilitate this, I would usually have a consultation with a bride/groom to establish their floral needs and get a feel for the style and theme you are going for.  After the consultation, I will provide you with a quote that will cover everything we discussed along with delivery and set up. 

I generally don’t have a price list as I do try to work to get the best price for my clients. Having said that I have a price guide below; depending on what flowers and styles you like the price can vary.  If you require floral arches, staircase or any large structure these will be priced individually.

You might find it helpful to see what flowers are in season at the time of your wedding,  http://boutiqueblooms.ie/flowers-by-month/ .

Bridal Party:                                                    From
Brides Bouquet                                               €120
Bridesmaids Bouquet                                     €100
Button Holes and Corsages                          €20
Wrist Corsages                                                €25
Hair Decoration                                              €30
Flower Girl Accessories                                 €40

Service Venue:
Pew Ends                                                          €25
Altar/Unity Arrangements                             €150
Bride/Groom Chair Back Arrangements     €35
Pedestal Arrangements                                  €150
Dressed Bay and Topiary Trees                   €100

Reception Venue:
Top Table Arrangements                              €150
Dinner Table Arrangements                         €90
Napkin Arrangements                                    €10
Chair backs                                                   €35
Pod and Drinks Table Arrangements          €35
Dressed Candelabras                                    €140
Bathroom Arrangements                               €35
Thank You Bouquets                                    €60

Cake Flowers                                               €35  

Delivery, set up and break down fees will be calculated on a wedding by wedding basis.

Avoid Hay fever on Your Big Day

You are not alone – it’s estimated that some 14 million people around the world also suffer the same runny, watery, itchy, scratchy, pressurized existence that hay fever sufferers do in autumn and spring; the peak allergy seasons! If you’re one of those people and are planning your wedding, be it set for any time of the year, the following are some tips to minimize the possibility of your nose and eyes interfering with your “I do’s” and fabulous make up.

I’m sure you’re well aware that your biggest allergy trigger will come from your wedding flowers.  It’s not the fragrance of a flower that makes you sneeze but rather the pollen.  Large, brightly colored flowers such as roses, daffodils or daisies have large pollens that are too heavy to be airborne and therefore, less likely to cause allergies.  Here are a few wedding flowers that you can use for your wedding that have very low pollen. Other low pollen flowers that would be suitable for bridal bouquets, buttonholes and other floral arrangements, include:

• Spray Roses – Tiny roses with approximately 5 tiny heads on each stem. They grow in a huge variety of different colors and have a light fragrance.

• Hydrangeas - The pom-pom-like blooms of the hydrangea will have any allergy sufferer cheering on Spring, comes in pink’s, white, red, blue, green and purples color.

• Camellias – A pollen free flower that has a very light fragrance and grows naturally in shades of white, red, or pink.

• Orchids – A beautifully radiant and durably versatile flower that grows in over 25,000 species; surprisingly all of which are edible.

·        Irises -   The dramatic iris sticks out in a bouquet and won't leave allergy sufferers reaching for the tissues. These also come in a lovely white variety.

·        Tulips - Pretty tulips traditionally signify Spring has sprung, but they are available throughout the year - there is nothing ordinary about the wide range of color choices available.

·        Snapdragons - The barely fragrant snapdragon is a good choice for allergy-prone flower lovers.

·        Hyacinths - The bulbous hyacinth adds a punch of color, without the itchy, watery eyes.

·        Roses - Even a baker's dozen of this allergy-friendly favorite will still have low levels of pollen. Roses come in an unimaginable array of colours and there is over 150 known verities!

·        Daffodils - A bouquet of yellow daffodils is the perfect way for an allergy sufferer to welcome Spring

Yet, anticipate all potential allergy triggers, couples should think “beyond the bouquet”.   If the wedding or reception is to be held outdoors, I’d suggest that the lawn be mowed two to three days ahead of time by a really good mower with an even better grass catcher.  Other nasal symptoms can be caused by everyday non-allergic triggers in the environment — such as hairspray (speak to your hairdresser in advance), smoke, perfume, strong odors.  This doesn’t mean that couples should avoid topping off their look with a good scent, but you may want to test it in advance, especially if it’s a new scent and you aren’t sure how you’ll react to it.

When it comes to allergies and weddings the best plans don’t always account for and stand up to mother nature, you’ll want to make sure that your wedding emergency kit includes moisturized tissues and a no-dose allergy medication just in case all precautionary measures fail.  Drink plenty of water to keep the toxins, uh, “flowing”.  Rinse and repeat.

Linda and Lisa

Check out the full low down of Linda and Lisa’s idyllic wedding in the stunning Horsetown House in Wexford. I had the please of working with these beautiful ladies to create their floral vision.

Make up by lk_proartist

Venue https://www.HoretownHouse.ie

Photos https://www.photographybyciara.com/

Flowers https://www.boutiqueblooms.ie

Rings https://www.chupi.com

https://blog.chupi.com/the-chupi-wedding-series-linda-lisa/

SO THIS IS 2021….

What a rollercoaster 2020 was. We have learnt so much, about ourselves, our family, employers, the Coronavirus, BLM, Trump to name but a few. For me the one lesson I learnt is how important my family and friends are. I have missed the long days spent chatting about nothing, filled with giggles and cups of tea. Zoom and FaceTime are not quite the same but I have been very glad to have them. I have also been very grateful for all the support I have received from customers new and old. I got Christmas orders from all over the globe! The Irish spirit is very strong and it will take a lot to break it. We can get through all of this. We have turned a corner and are starting the year on a positive as far as the vaccine is concerned.

On that note we can begin to plan again. As the spring flowers begin to bloom we will see a new dawn, a turning point here. Like all processes this will take time but will be worth it in the end. For weddings my advice would be to plan small for Spring and Summer and hopefully by Autumn we will begin to see larger numbers at weddings. All of this is possible.

I look forward to planning weddings, events, vow renewals, christening parties in the coming months.

Stay safe!