True Love Tuesday Daneka Power & Damian Dolan.... - Getting Married in Northern Ireland Magazine

A Fermanagh Fairytale: The Wedding of Daneka Power & Damian Dolan

When primary teacher and musician Daneka Power first locked eyes with fencing contractor Damian Dolan at a Lisa McHugh dance in Kinawley Hall, she had no idea their story would one day lead to a perfect seaside proposal in Tenerife — and an unforgettable March wedding surrounded by 230 of their nearest and dearest.

After eight wonderful years together, Damian popped the question on Las Vistas beach on August 14, 2022. With the Atlantic glistening behind them and a stunning platinum solitaire diamond in hand, Daneka said yes. “It was perfect,” she recalls, simply.

Dress Dreams and Olive Elegance

When it came time to say “yes to the dress,” Daneka kept an open mind, bringing her mum along for support. At White House Bridal in Fivemiletown, she found her dream gown — “I knew straight away when I tried on ‘the one,’” she shares. The experience was made even more special by Amanda’s helpful and friendly guidance.

The bridal party echoed the couple’s green and white theme in style, with the bridesmaids donning elegant olive green gowns from Folkster, while the flower girl charmed in a dress from Lipsy London. Daneka’s bridal party included her best friend Niamh McCaffrey, sister-in-law Michaela Dolan, and brother’s fiancée Emma Shannon.

Meanwhile, Damian and his groomsmen – brother Cillian Dolan, best friend Gary Burns, and Daneka’s brother Stephen Power – looked sharp in suits from Nineteen83 in Omagh.

A Church in Derrylin, A Celebration in Monaghan

The couple exchanged vows at St. Ninnidh’s Church in Derrylin, followed by a lively celebration at the Four Seasons Hotel in Monaghan. The theme — green and white — was carried beautifully throughout the day, from the bridesmaids’ dresses to the floral arrangements, signage, and even the mass booklets. “It’s elegant and simplistic,” Daneka says of their chosen palette.

Music, naturally, played a starring role in the celebration. Talented musicians Shauneen Maguire and Darren Culliney greeted guests at the church with harp, accordion, and piano, while Sean Magee brought the party to life during the pre-reception. And in a special twist, Daneka and members of her wedding band, Power Struggle, took to the stage for an impromptu performance later in the night.

A Personal Touch — and a Doorstop!

One of the most memorable (and laugh-out-loud) moments came during the ceremony when a rogue church doorstop managed to hitch a ride under Daneka’s dress as she walked down the aisle. “It stayed inside my dress until after we lit our candles,” she laughs. “It eventually fell out and Damian kicked it away — definitely a highlight on the wedding video!” Videographer Conor from CMP Productions was praised for capturing every unforgettable detail.

There were special touches throughout the day, from light-up “D & D” letters and a photobooth, to cold sparks during the first dance — a romantic moment set to Casey Barnes’ God Took His Time on You. A tractor lovingly restored by Damian even made an appearance at the church, a proud nod to his passion and hard work.

A Celebration to Remember

Reflecting on the day, the couple beams. “It was absolutely perfect — we wouldn’t change a thing,” says Daneka. Her highlight? “Seeing everyone having an amazing time and celebrating with my husband. Also, seeing how beautiful the church and venue looked.” Damian’s? “Seeing Daneka on time — and looking stunning — and getting to show off the tractor!”

After their big day, the newlyweds enjoyed a mini-moon at The Rabbit Spa and in Lanzarote, followed by a dream honeymoon across Nashville, Memphis, New Orleans, and Las Vegas — a whirlwind adventure for a couple who had already lived a love story worthy of a country song.

Now settling into married life, Daneka and Damian are enjoying every moment. “We reminisce back on our big day regularly,” says the bride.

Daneka’s Top Tip for Brides-to-Be:

“Enjoy it and try not to overthink things. Everything really does fall into place on the day.”

WEDDING SUPPLIERS INFO:

Reception location: Four Seasons Monaghan

Wedding Dress from: White House Bridal

Bridesmaids dresses from: FOLKSTER

Groomswear from: Nineteen83

Make-up by: Makeup by Ellen Lunney

Hair by: Hair by Michaela Murphy

Flowers by: Bouquets2Banquets

Room Décor by: Bouquets2Banquets and Northern Event Hire