A Dreamy Donegal Love Story
“Love recognises no barriers. It jumps hurdles, leaps fences,
penetrates walls to arrive at its destination full of hope”
Maya Angelou_
In the heart of Donegal, two souls met at a country dance, igniting a romance that would span over a decade. Catherine Dooher, a 27-year-old Senior Appeals Representative from Porthall, Lifford, and Kian Hutchinson, a 30-year-old digger driver from Inch Island, Lifford, found their forever dance partner that fateful night. Their journey together reached a beautiful crescendo on their wedding day, a celebration filled with love, laughter, and unforgettable memories.
March 30, 2023 is a day that will be etched in their hearts forever. Kian took Catherine to the beautiful shores of Narin Beach in Portnoo. The gentle waves whispered secrets of love as Kian proposed with a sparkling ring from Crossan Jewellers in Buncrana. The proposal was a simple yet profound moment, marking the beginning of a new chapter in their love story.
A wedding was planned at St Murlog Church in Lifford followed by a beautiful reception at Beechill in Derry. Invites were sent out and plans were put in place to ensure their wedding went smoothly.
Catherine’s bridal journey was nothing short of enchanting. She found her dream dress at Pippa Bridal in Coleraine. The experience of trying on various styles was one she cherished, each dress bringing her closer to the one that made her heart sing. The bridesmaids too looked resplendent in their dresses from Liena, adding to the day’s elegance and charm.
Surrounded by loved ones, Catherine’s bridal party consisted of her sister and maid of honour Lauren, her sister-in-law Yvonne, and her cousin Anna. Kian’s support came from his brother and best man Ronan, his uncle Paul, and Catherine’s brother James. This close-knit group added to the warmth and intimacy of the celebration.
The journey to their wedding day was a mix of excitement and tranquillity. Catherine and Kian were remarkably relaxed throughout the planning process, finding joy in seeing their dreams come to life. Despite the challenges, they cherished the experience, especially the moment when everything fell perfectly into place.
Catherine and Kian exchanged vows at St. Murlog Church in Lifford. The ceremony was filled with poignant moments, laughter, and a touch of humour when they went in for the kiss a bit too early. Yet, it was this spontaneity that made the day uniquely theirs. The highlight, undoubtedly, was the moment they saw each other at the altar, eyes meeting in a silent promise of forever.
The celebration continued at Beechill in Derry with 131 of their friends and family to help them celebrate. While there was no particular theme, the day unfolded seamlessly, filled with joy and camaraderie. Even though they went slightly over budget, it was worth every penny to see their dream day come to fruition.
Their first dance as husband and wife was to “5 Leaf Clover” by Luke Combs, a song that perfectly captured their journey and the love they share. The dance floor became a place of magic, where time seemed to stand still, and all that mattered was their love for each other.
For those embarking on their own wedding planning journey, Catherine and Kian have simple yet profound advice: “Do what you want and don’t feel pressurised by other people’s opinions. It’s your day.”
Following their wedding, Catherine and Kian set off on a honeymoon that dreams are made of. Their adventures took them to Boston, Nashville and Thailand.
Now, back from their honeymoon, Catherine and Kian are still basking in the glow of their special day. Their love story, which began at a country dance, continues to unfold, each chapter more beautiful than the last. They remain on cloud nine, grateful for the journey they’ve shared and excited for all that lies ahead.
Wedding Suppliers:-
Reception – Beech Hill Country House
Wedding dress – Pippa Bridal, Coleraine
Bridesmaid dress – Liena, Online
Groomsmen – Tomorrows Menswear
Hair & Make up – Megan Curran Hair & Make Up
Rings – Crossan Jewellers
Cake – Funky Cakes
Stationery – I Do Wedding Stationery, Coleraine
Photography – James Aiken Photography
Videography – We Can Be Heroes, L’derry
Entertainment –
David Craig Band,
Meagan Lucas,
Rodney Biggs
