A New Year, A New Chapter: A Love Story Written in Perfect Timing
From a chance meeting in a local theatre to a glittering New Year’s Eve celebration, Rachael Donnelly and Paschal McAnenly’s love story is one that feels both destined and deeply personal.
Rachael, a 28-year-old makeup artist from Co. Tyrone, first crossed paths with Paschal, 31, from Ballygawley, at the Bardic Theatre in Donaghmore through a mutual friend. At the time, Rachael had just begun university, and although there was an initial spark, life led them in different directions. It wasn’t until a few years later when they unexpectedly bumped into each other again in Tomney’s Bar in Moy that their story truly began. As Rachael fondly reflects, it felt like fate had stepped in, with the “invisible string theory” quietly guiding them back together.
Their relationship blossomed over the next seven years, built on shared laughter, mutual respect, and a deep understanding of one another. When it came time for Paschal to propose, he planned a moment that perfectly captured the intimacy of their relationship. Knowing how much Rachael loved the Lyrath Estate in Kilkenny a place they had visited the year before he chose it as the setting. Because Rachael herself had rebooked the trip, it added an extra layer of surprise.
On a peaceful day by the lake, as Rachael filmed swans gliding across the water, she turned to find Paschal on one knee. The moment was quiet, heartfelt, and completely unexpected. The ring was equally meaningful: Paschal had designed it himself with a team in London, choosing an oval-cut diamond solitaire with a hidden halo, set on a delicate yellow gold pavé band. It was, as Rachael describes, “perfect and completely me.”
Wedding preparations were a dream come true, particularly for Rachael, whose career as a bridal makeup artist meant she had long envisioned her own special day. She began her dress search at Serendipity Bridal Boutique in Fivemiletown, drawn by their collection of Suzanne Neville gowns. While she loved many designs, none combined every element she had imagined. With the help of Kym and designer Suzanne Neville, Rachael opted for a bespoke gown an experience she describes as seamless and incredibly special.
Her bridal party reflected the close-knit nature of their lives. Maid of Honour Teri, her cousin, stood alongside bridesmaids Melissa, her sister-in-law, and Orla, Paschal’s cousin. Their dresses, along with those for the mother of the bride and flower girls, were custom-made by Una Rodden Couture in Belfast. Paschal’s look was equally considered, with a custom suit by Dee Graham in Magherafelt, while his three groomsmen his brothers Pauric and Aaron, and close friend Daniel were styled by Journey of Gentleman.
The couple married on 31st December 2025 at St Patrick’s Church in Dungannon, followed by a spectacular reception at the Slieve Russell Hotel in Ballyconnell, Co. Cavan. With 320 guests in attendance, their vision of a New Year’s Eve Ball came to life in breathtaking fashion. The reception space was transformed with floor-to-ceiling draping, dramatic production lighting, and a striking black-and-white dancefloor. Live singers entertained guests throughout dinner, setting the tone for an unforgettable celebration.
“We loved the symbolism of New Year’s Eve,” Rachael explains. “Closing one chapter and stepping into a new one together it just felt so meaningful.” The glamorous, high-energy atmosphere perfectly reflected the couple’s personalities and their love of celebration.
From a pancake cart during the drinks reception to non-stop live music from mid-afternoon until the early hours, the day was filled with thoughtful touches that delighted their guests. Their first dance, to “Mo Chailín, Mo Chroí” by Jamie McIntyre, was a romantic highlight, though both agree it’s impossible to choose just one favourite moment. “The entire day we adored every second and wish we could do it all again,” Rachael says, laughing that Paschal is already suggesting a vow renewal just to relive the party.
After their magical celebration, the newlyweds escaped to Mexico for a well-deserved honeymoon, soaking up the sun in a stunning resort south of Cancun. As they settle into married life, they admit it doesn’t feel dramatically different just even more special knowing they’re officially side by side for whatever comes next.
Their advice to other couples? Plan ahead, stay organised, and most importantly, take time to enjoy every moment. Because, as they discovered, a wedding day passes in the blink of an eye but the memories last forever.
WEDDING SUPPLIERS INFO NAME AND TOWN – see full list below with social handles
Team & Details…
- Planner ~ @world.of.weddings_
- Photographer ~ @peter_carvill
- 2nd Shooter ~ @pdp_photography
- Videographer ~ @irlweddingvideos
- Content Creator ~ @mariki_studios | @miamackin7
- Personal Content ~ @lucyslenss
- Dress Boutique ~ @serendipitybridalboutique (Custom @suzanneneville )
- Shoes ~ @jimmychoo
- Earrings ~ @lisaandcolimited from Serendipity Bridal
- Morning Robe ~ @thevow_bridalstudio
- Veil ~ @richarddesignsbridal – @serendipitybridalboutique
- 2nd Dress Boutique ~ @thevow_bridalstudio (Custom @heracouture)
Seamstress ~ @irenamccrorybridal
- 2nd Dress Earrings ~ @thedresshouse1
- Bridesmaids, Flower Girl & MOB Dresses ~ @unarodden
- Wedding Morning service ~ @asyoudoweddings
- Flowers ~ @love__blossoms__
- Hair ~ @emmafinlay37
- Bridesmaids & MOB makeup ~ @fmmakeup
- Spraytan ~ @bebronze_
- MOG hair & makeup ~ @bronaghmimnaghmakeup @sineadtreanorhair
- MOG Gown ~ @r_u_e_d_i
- Grooms Suit ~ @deegrahamtailormade
- Grooms shoes ~ @donricofootwear
- Suits ~ @thejourneyofgentlemen
- Breakfast ~ @roostandroux
- Cars ~ @midulsterlimos & @prenticebmw
- Ceremony Muisc ~ @malachicushmusic, @mcbennettsisters @pm.___gartland @ariastringquartet @markcarmichaelmusic1
- Rings ~ @clearstone_byheart
- Venue ~ @slieve_russell_hotel
- On the day Co ordinator ~ @the.beardedbridesmaid
- Cake ~ @marydunneccd
- Stationery ~ @world.of.weddings_
- Signage ~ Custom made by @world.of.weddings_
- Acrylic & Vinyl Print ~ @athinaprints
- Room styling ~ @weddingspecialistsni
- Production ~ @axlaudiovisualltd
- Room draping ~ @realevents.irl
- Dancefloor ~ @champagne_memories_events
- Drinks reception music ~ @niamhmccrystal_ & @ciaramccrystal6
- Meal entertainment ~ @art_dekooo & @john_garrity_music
Evening Entertainment ~ @thetributesmusic & @art_dekooo
- Day 2 Dress ~ Custom @unarodden
- Day 2 Entertainment ~ @andrewdolanmusic @jack.Fairon @art_dekooo @tisnoteasyband
