True Love Tuesday Emma and Andrew Brown..

A Love Written in the Stars: Emma Jones & Andrew Brown’s Wedding

Some love stories feel destined, and for Emma Jones and Andrew Brown, it seems fate had a hand from the very beginning. Both born on the same day — 19th March 1992 — Emma, a Senior Practitioner Social Worker from Portadown, and Andrew, a Senior Software Engineer from Dromore, met during the pandemic on Bumble. Their socially distanced first date was a walk through Ormeau Park, Belfast, and exactly five years later, they would marry — a perfect full-circle moment.

The Proposal in Rome

In October 2023, Andrew whisked Emma away on a whirlwind Italian adventure, taking in Florence, Venice, and finally Rome. At 8am, with the Trevi Fountain blissfully quiet, Andrew asked Emma to be his wife. The ring — a stunning white gold floral cluster from Murray and Co., Belfast — was chosen together, ensuring it reflected their shared style and story.

The Dress of Dreams

Emma’s princess ballgown was the very first dress she tried on at Wed2B with her mum. “We both cried, and I just knew,” she says. After an inspiring weight-loss journey, expert alterations by Elles Bridal Alterations ensured the gown was every bit as magical as Emma had imagined. Her bridesmaid Tanya wore a chic dress from Perfect Day, while flower girl Emily — her goddaughter — wore a Monsoon frock that inspired the entire wedding colour palette.

A Groom with Style

Andrew and his groomsmen looked sharp in suits from Statement Menswear, with his best man Craig Stewart and Emma’s brother David Jones completing the line-up.

A Day of Old & New

On the 20th of June 2025, with glorious sunshine and an official heatwave, Emma and Andrew exchanged vows in the historic Mountjoy Meeting House at the Ulster American Folk Park — a venue that held fond childhood memories for both. The vintage theme was carried throughout, with a classic bus, handcrafted décor, and a backdrop that beautifully blended the couple’s “old and new” theme.

Their reception at the Silverbirch Hotel continued the celebration, where guests were surprised and delighted by some very unique touches: miniature ponies to greet them on arrival, gelato in the sunshine, and a comedy set by Miss Peggy O’dee, who crashed dessert service with songs and games.

Magical Moments

The newlyweds shared their first dance to Lana Del Rey’s Young and Beautiful on a personalised dance floor, complete with dazzling cold sparks. While a buttercream wedding cake and a heatwave made for some amusing photo opportunities, the lemon and elderflower creation by Heavenly Treats was enjoyed by all.

But for Emma and Andrew, it was the quieter, intimate moments that shone brightest — from getting ready with her bridesmaids (and their pet bunny, Dolly, in her own handmade dress!) to signing the register in the quaint Campbell House with their parents by their side.

Looking Back

Emma admits that while her DIY décor — from stationery to faux floral bouquets — made the day uniquely theirs, the stress of setting it up in the final hours was something she’d rethink. Her advice to future couples? “Set a budget and expect to double it! But remember, there are so many beautiful venues in Northern Ireland that don’t come with a hefty price tag.”

The Honeymoon & Beyond

After a romantic mini-moon at The Old Inn Crawfordsburn, where they were treated to a complimentary cottage upgrade, Emma and Andrew are already looking forward to their Caribbean cruise — a ten-night trip of a lifetime later this year.

As they settle into married life, one thing is clear: Emma and Andrew are enjoying every second. “People always say the day goes so fast, and it’s true. We’d relive every moment if we could. But knowing we have our honeymoon ahead makes the magic last that little bit longer.”

WEDDING SUPPLIERS INFO:

Reception location: Silverbirch Hotel

Wedding Dress from: Wed2Be

Seamstress: Elle’s Bridal Alterations

Bridesmaids Dresses from: Perfect Day Bridal

Groomswear from: Statement Menswear

Make-up by: Cali and Co, NI

Hair by: JLD Bridal Hair

Room Décor by:

Events by Cassidy McCleans

The Party People NI

Rings from: Murray and Co