True Love Tuesday Mary Rose Reiner and Conor John Connolly... - Getting Married in Northern Ireland Magazine

A New York Spark, an Irish Fairytale

Mary & Conor’s Love Story

Some love stories begin with grand gestures—but for Mary Rose Reiner and Conor John Connolly, it all started with a spark in a Bronx bar in 2019. Mary, a New York nurse with a heart of gold, and Conor, the charming construction worker from Cullyhanna, struck up a conversation that neither of them wanted to end. They talked every day afterward, and six years later, those sparks have turned into a life lived side by side.

A Proposal With History in the Ring

Conor chose the scenic hills of Nyack, New York for the moment he’d ask Mary the biggest question of his life. Pretending they were simply posing for a photo, he dropped to one knee—much to Mary’s surprise and delight. Champagne followed on a pier-side bar, but the real celebration came later. Mary walked into what she thought was a relaxed family tailgate only to find a full surprise engagement party waiting for her.

The ring? A stunning heirloom passed down from Mary’s nana—a piece of generations-deep love and legacy now beginning a new chapter on Mary’s hand.

Saying “Yes” to the Dress

Despite arriving at Lamb’s Hill Bridal Boutique in Beacon, NY imagining a simple satin gown, Mary fell head-over-heels for something entirely different: a detailed, princess-style dress that made her feel like the heroine of her own fairytale. Joined by her sister and sister-in-law, the experience was filled with laughter, love, and plenty of happy tears.

Her eight bridesmaids—dressed in glamorous gold satin from Birdy Grey—stood by her side: her sister Katherine and cousin Clare as her two Maids of Honor, along with Meghan, Aoife, Carly, Anna, Audrey, and Rita. Meanwhile, Conor and his eight groomsmen, dressed in classic black tuxedos from The Black Tux, balanced tradition with effortless style.

A Castle, a Church, and a Touch of Magic

On July 31st, 2025, Mary and Conor exchanged vows in Saint Patrick’s Church in Cullyhanna, surrounded by 120 family and friends. Their vision—“classic, timeless, fairytale”—came to life from aisle to dance floor. White florals, baby’s breath, soft greenery, satin gowns, and tuxedos set the tone… and of course, the enchanted setting of Killeavy Castle Estate sealed the fairytale feeling.

Everything ran seamlessly, and the couple felt wrapped in warmth from their vendors and the Killeavy team—who, according to Mary, were “kind, helpful, and celebratory every step of the way.”

Surprises, Songs & A Candle Mix-Up

One of the most charming moments came during the ceremony, when Mary and Conor lit their unity candle—with the wrong flames. The priest whispered the correction, they blew them out, and had another go, laughing together the entire time.

Later, the Secret Singing Waiters stunned guests by leaping into song after dinner, turning the room into a joyous sing-and-dance-along. The Entourage Band kept the dancefloor full all night, while the couple’s first dance—Joy of My Life by Chris Stapleton—was the perfect soundtrack to a moment they’d practiced countless times in their living room.

A Day to Remember

For Mary and Conor, choosing a favorite moment seems nearly impossible. The heartfelt ceremony, the electrifying music, a room full of their favorite people—it all blended into one perfect, joy-filled day. Though the budget didn’t quite stay on track (whose does?), they wouldn’t change a single thing.

Happily Ever After… and On to Spain

The newlyweds are looking forward to their honeymoon in Spain this summer, and married life so far? “Fun and filled with lots of love and joy,” says Mary.

Their advice to other couples?
Don’t stress the small stuff. The love and happiness of the day make every little hiccup melt away.

WEDDING SUPPLIERS INFO NAME AND TOWN

Reception location: Killeavy Castle Estate

Wedding Dress from: Lamb’s Hill Bridal Boutique

Bridesmaids dresses from: Birdy Grey

Groomswear from: The Black Tux

Make-up by: KLM Makeup

Hair by: Michelle Murphy and Dani Pattison

Flowers by: Gerard McErlean

Room Décor by: EPIC Event Styling & Design

Cake by: M & M Cakes by Majella

Stationery by: Epic Events