Love, Laughter, and Magic & A Dreamy Winter Wedding
“Love is like the wind; you can’t see it, but you can feel it.”
Nicholas Sparks
On a crisp December morning love took centre stage as Brid McGourty and Brendan Rogers exchanged vows in a heartwarming ceremony. The 27th of December 2023, marked the beginning of their journey as husband and wife, a day filled with love, laughter, and cherished memories.
In the bustling halls of Queens University Belfast, amidst the chatter of students and the whispers of fate, Brid McGourty and Brendan Rogers’ paths intertwined, setting the stage for a love story that would captivate hearts and stand the test of time. From their serendipitous meeting to the heartfelt proposal and the meticulous planning of their dream wedding, their journey serves as a testament to the power of love, resilience, and unwavering commitment.
Brid and Brendan’s journey began as mere acquaintances, their paths crossing through a mutual friend at Queens University Belfast. However, it wasn’t until two years later that their friendship blossomed into something more profound. United by shared interests, laughter, and a deepening connection, they embarked on a journey of discovery, each moment bringing them closer together.
On a serene Saturday evening, amidst the comfort of their home, Brendan took Brid’s hand and led her to a moment that would forever change their lives. With a heart full of love and a ring that sparkled as brightly as their shared future, Brendan asked Brid to be his forever. In a private and intimate setting, far from the prying eyes of the world, they shared a moment of pure joy and unwavering devotion, sealing their love with promises of forevermore.
With the glow of their engagement still illuminating their hearts, Brid and Brendan embarked on the journey of planning their dream wedding. Guided by a shared vision of elegance, warmth, and intimacy, they approached each decision with love and meticulous attention to detail. From selecting the perfect venue to curating a playlist that would ignite the dance floor, every aspect of their wedding was a reflection of their love story.
Brid’s dress shopping journey led her to Forever Bridal on Lisburn Road, where she found the gown of her dreams, a radiant ensemble that embodied her grace and sophistication. Accompanied by her beloved bridesmaids, sister Catherine and best friend Grainne, Brid’s journey to finding the perfect dress was a joyous celebration of friendship and sisterhood.
Meanwhile, Brendan along with his groomsmen and brothers, Michael and Patrick, sought their attire from Cuba Clothing in Dungannon. With a blend of timeless elegance and modern sophistication, they selected ensembles that complemented the enchanting ambiance of their winter wedding.
As the wedding day drew near, Brid and Brendan found themselves immersed in a whirlwind of excitement and anticipation. From finalising guest lists to choosing the perfect wedding favours, every moment was a testament to their love and commitment to each other.
And so, on 27th December 2023 surrounded by loved ones; Brid and Brendan exchanged vows in a ceremony filled with love, laughter, and cherished memories at St Josephs, Ballycranbeg and celebrated at the Clandeboye Lodge Hotel with their 200 guests. Their wedding was not just a celebration of their love, but a testament to the journey that brought them together and the bright future that awaited them as husband and wife.
As they danced beneath the winter stars, surrounded by the warmth of their loved ones, Brid and Brendan knew that their love story was just beginning. Making their wedding an unforgettable day for their guests with a magician at the drinks reception and live music and even the Maid Of Honour giving a speech as a rap. Brid told us about a special gift the couple received “A GAA half and half top (Half slaughtneil/half ballycran that said Brid and Brendan ‘match of the day’ 27/12/23 – Gifted from Ballycran GAC)”
Funny moments from the day included “DJ Magiggs made the day so fun for everyone – consisted of meal entertainment too. He got people up to dance blindfolded, hula hoop challenges and a few people had to dress up and lip sync” Brid and Brendan told us. Highlights of their day included the Irish Dancing , especially Brendan who is an All Ireland Champion, they chose an upbeat Irish jig for leaving the church which set the tone for the day and the party that lay ahead.
Before heading off on honeymoon to Rome they gave this advice to other newly engaged couples “Easier said than done but just try not to stress – everything will come together. We would recommend leaving the honeymoon for a few days after the wedding because you are so tired.”
With hearts entwined and dreams intertwined, they embarked on a new chapter of their lives. Brid and Brendan were lucky enough to already have their house, so it was straight back to work and training (Derry football and camogie) they are forever bound by the promise of love, laughter, and happily ever after.
WEDDING SUPPLIERS INFO:
Reception location: Clandeboye Lodge Hotel
Wedding Dress from: Forever Bridal
Bridesmaids dresses from: Pronuptia Bridal Belfast
Groomswear from: Cuba Clothing
Make-up by: Laura McNamee
Hair by: Elizabeth McRoberts
Flowers by: Happy Ever Vintage
Room Décor by: Happy Ever Vintage
Rings from: Gardiner Brothers Jewellers
Cake by: Eimear McCarthy
Photography by: Alexandra Barfoot Photography
Videography by: Shutter & Light
Entertainment by:
Mass and Reception music: The Rare ‘Aul Stuff
Magician for drinks reception: Rodd Hogg
Meal entertainment/MC/DJ: DJ magiggs