BLACK-TIE IRISH CATHOLIC WEDDING AT THE SAINT CHRISTOPHER CATHEDRAL – DUOMO – CORFU OLD TOWN

From our very first online meeting, we were utterly captivated by their warm and contagious smiles, their kindness, and their know-how. In fact, planning their Corfu wedding was a breeze, as they knew exactly what they wanted; a fairytale-wedding laced with elegance and aristocratic ease. We instantly suggested that they held their wedding reception at the iconic Achillion, the Austrian Empress Sisi’s Palace, in Gastouri, for its epic views and perfectly manicured gardens, unparalleled beauty, and era aesthetics.

Honoring her heritage, our stunning looking bride began her big-day preparations at the house where her father was born and grew up in, and we could barely hold our tears back watching her all radiant in her wedding gown surrounded by her family and loved ones. After enjoying some toasts of bubbly with her bridesmaids by the garden pool Mairie picked up her white bridal bouquet and got on her ride to church. Ronan’s preps at 5 star Kontokali Bay Hotel began with a very special note delivery from his wife to be. A hand calligraphed pochette for him to carry close to his heart and a beautiful reminder of their special day.

The couple’s Irish-Catholic wedding ceremony took place at the Saint Christopher Cathedral in Corfu Old Town. The architectural gem whose roots go back to the 13th century, also known as Corfu Duomo was decorated in lavish floral arrangements in tune with the couple’s reception floral decor. The couple’s guests gathered early at the local piazza to enjoy an aperitivo as is customary in Corfu and making sure all safety measures were followed entered the church for the ceremony to begin. After the bride and groom’s grand exit and confetti toss their photographers whisked them away for some alone time and the guests headed to the Achilleion Palace terrace for an elegant cocktail.

Ensconced in the main patio, corseted by statues, lush floral arrangements the aristocratic ambiance of the reception was set in ghost seating, pastel tabletops with clear and white porcelain tableware, and gold cutlery, crystal glassware, and seas of candles. In lieu of table runners, we designed long cascading arrangements that skirted the check-pattern floors, while we created a special spot for the minimal dessert and cake display. The circular marble bench was draped in pink organza and a round table was set in the middle. Pictures of the family were displayed nearby, a nod to remembrance and gratitude.

When the soft light of the afternoon gave way to dusk Mairie and Ronan’s big entrance followed the garden esplanade down to the front balcony and a warm welcome with sparklers and dancing ensued. During dinner and between speeches the couple indulged their loved ones with traditional dancing performances both folk and traditional as well as wedding dances that are native to the island of Corfu. Following their second dance, everybody joined in the party which lasted till the wee hours, full of happenings and wonderful surprises.