Wedding of the Week: Cork-Kerry Couple Celebrate Summer Nuptials
A scenic Australian proposal leads to a sun-drenched wedding ceremony in County Kerry.
1Scenic Australian Proposal
Mairead Sheehan and Shane Prendiville became engaged atop the 161-meter Tomaree summit in Australia. While traveling in a campervan along the Gold Coast, Shane surprised Mairead with a proposal during a sunrise hike. He had carried the ring, purchased from Keanes, throughout their journey before finally asking the question at the peak.
2Six Years of History
The couple first met in March 2018 at a Killarney nightclub while celebrating St Patrick’s Night with mutual friends. They instantly connected at Social 15 and began a relationship that spanned six years. Their journey eventually led them back to their home counties of Cork and Kerry for their summer wedding celebration.
3Religious Ceremony Details
The wedding took place in July during a heatwave at St Kentigern’s Church in Eyeries, County Cork. Fr Eamonn Mulvihill officiated the ceremony, marking a sentimental moment as he had previously led the bride's first Holy Communion and confirmation. The couple expressed that the day was perfect from the very start to finish.
4Wedding Party and Guests
The bridal party included maid of honour Orla O’Shea, bridesmaids Catriona Kingston and Ciara Connolly, and flower girl Faye Downing. Shane was supported by best man Stephen Cahillane, groomsmen Garret Prendiville and Liam Shannon, and pageboys Frankie Griffin and Paudie Cahillane. Family members and friends gathered at the Killarney Oaks Hotel for the reception.
5Attire and Logistics
Mairead wore an elegant satin halterneck gown by Alexandra Grecco, purchased from The White Gold boutique in Kinsale. Shane opted for a classic black-tie tuxedo from Tuxedo in Tralee. The couple traveled to the church in vehicles provided by Adam’s in Tralee, driven by the groom’s uncle, Noel Murphy, for the ceremony.
6Entertainment and Atmosphere
Singer Lily MacMonagle performed during the ceremony, while electric violinist Nicole Longergan provided music for the drinks reception and the grand ballroom entrance. The wedding band Flog The Dog entertained guests throughout the evening. The couple noted that the ballroom entrance was particularly high-energy, creating an unforgettable atmosphere for all their guests.
7Floral and Culinary Elements
Floral arrangements were crafted by Peter Tora of Scent of Tora, based in Castletownbere. O’Carroll’s Cakes in Killarney provided the wedding cake for the reception. The couple’s two dogs, Bruno and Coco, were also involved in the morning festivities, adding a personal touch to the wedding day preparations before the main event began.
8Honeymoon and Future
Following their wedding, the couple enjoyed a minimoon in Corfu. They recently embarked on a longer honeymoon trip to Thailand and the Maldives last month. Now residing in Keel, County Kerry, the newlyweds reflect on their summer wedding as the best day of their lives, marking the start of their married life together.
Original article: Irish Examiner — Wedding of the Week: Cork-Kerry Couple Celebrate Summer Nuptials