True Love Tuesday Melanie and Ryan Clarke... - Getting Married in Northern Ireland Magazine

A Manor House Romance: Melanie & Ryan’s Elegant Black and White Wedding

For Enniskillen natives Melanie Fawcett and Ryan Clarke, love didn’t arrive in a whirlwind — it unfolded slowly, naturally, and beautifully. Though they’d known each other for years growing up in the same town, their paths didn’t cross romantically until fate gave them a gentle nudge in January 2020. One Snapchat message later, a friendship evolved into a bond neither of them saw coming.

“Neither of us were looking for love,” Melanie says, “but we quickly realized we’d found something really special.”

From kayaking through flamingo-filled lagoons in Venice to raising their blended family of five children together, their love story has been one of adventure, resilience, and unwavering connection.

So when Ryan got down on one knee during a romantic gondola ride near the iconic Rialto Bridge in March 2023, there was no hesitation—Melanie’s “yes” echoed with certainty.

Finding “The One” – The Dress, of Course!

Melanie said yes to another kind of love at Perfect Day Bridal in Lurgan. “The experience was everything I hoped it would be,” she says. From the welcoming prosecco to the attentive team, it was a day filled with laughter, happy tears, and the unforgettable moment she found the dress.

“I felt beautiful, comfortable, and completely myself.”

Her bridesmaids wore elegant black velvet midi dresses from River Island, a timeless and chic contrast to the soft white florals carried by each woman — single white roses from Cherished Fauxever.

An Emotional Ceremony in a Storybook Setting

Set against the picturesque backdrop of the Manor Country House Hotel, Melanie and Ryan’s wedding day was nothing short of a fairytale. Surrounded by gardens, lake views, and softly glowing countryside light, the couple welcomed 160 adults and 30 children to celebrate their union.

The ceremony was filled with personal and emotional touches — from a harpist’s tender rendition of The Old Rugged Cross to a surprise voice note Melanie had recorded for Ryan.

“There wasn’t a dry eye in the room,” she recalls. “It was my way of showing him how much he means to me and the girls.”

But the surprises didn’t stop there. Leading the bridal procession was 8-month-old Freddie Truesdale, Melanie’s godson, adorably cruising up the aisle in a mini Bentley. And just when guests thought they’d seen it all, Melanie’s brothers Charles and Jamielee stole the show with a playful dance up the aisle to Man! I Feel Like a Woman, tossing petals in heart-shaped sunglasses.

“I wanted to make sure everyone—from toddlers to grandparents—felt the joy.”

Stylish Touches & Personal Flair

Melanie and Ryan’s wedding was defined by a sophisticated black-and-white theme, accented with natural greenery. Every detail — from sleek black acrylic table numbers to personalised tambourines used during their entrance — was carefully thought out.

In place of traditional favours, they offered LED light-up accessories and heart-shaped sunglasses for the dance floor, along with personalised thank-you notes tied with black bows at each place setting.

Tributes to family were central to the day. Guests were welcomed by a table showcasing wedding photos of the couple’s parents, and a candle lit in memory of loved ones who couldn’t be there.

Perhaps the most standout element? A custom newspaper-style order of service, filled with snippets of their love story and moments from the day. “It felt like a fun way to share more of us with our guests,” says Melanie.

The Entrance of All Entrances

Forget subtle — the bridal party made their reception entrance with custom wooden face masks of Melanie and Ryan, tambourines in hand, lights flashing, and DJ Magiggs hyping the crowd like no other. The vibe? Electric.

DJ Magiggs was more than a DJ — he was the life of the party. From the bridal entrance to dance-offs during dinner, his energy transformed the evening into a non-stop celebration.

“He made the day unforgettable,” Melanie says. “People still talk about him — he’s now a local legend.”

The couple’s first dance was set to ADMT’s soulful cover of 50 Cent’s “Best Friend.” The moment was so moving, even the artist himself reposted it on social media. “Now we’re just waiting for a concert date so we can hear it live,” Melanie says.

Details That Delighted

Melanie leaned into her background as an Activity Coordinator to ensure guests — especially the younger ones — had an amazing time. A soft play area, Bounce NI’s bouncy castle, face painting, and activity bags kept kids entertained, while parents danced the night away.

Rather than a traditional dress change, Melanie opted for something even more unique — a mid-reception hair chop, courtesy of hairstylist Aileen Truesdale, with her detachable sleeves shortened to match the fresh new look.

And the couple’s stunning three-tier Victoria sponge cake, topped with a black ‘R&M,’ echoed their elegant aesthetic to sweet perfection.

A Picture-Perfect Day

Behind the lens was Claire from Wild Thistle Photography, whose eye for natural, candid moments captured every nuance of the day. From the quiet nerves before the ceremony to the wild joy on the dance floor, Claire documented it all.

“Looking through our photos feels like reliving it all,” Melanie says. “She was more than just a photographer — she was a calming presence and a true professional.”

Honeymoon & Happily Ever After

After the whirlwind celebration, the newlyweds set sail on a Mediterranean cruise with MSC, soaking in the post-wedding glow and dreaming of the adventures ahead.

“Married life feels like a dream because I married my best friend,” says Melanie. “Ryan didn’t just marry me — he embraced my daughters as his own. Our little family feels complete.”

Advice for Other Couples

“Enjoy every second, and don’t overthink it,” Melanie shares. “It’s your day — make it joyful and personal. Don’t worry if it’s not ‘traditional’ — if it feels right to you, that’s all that matters.”

And, of course, she adds with a laugh, “Make a proper plan for family photos!”

A day defined by laughter, tears, music, surprises, and deep family love, Melanie and Ryan’s wedding was more than just a celebration — it was a heartfelt tribute to their story, their blended family, and the beautiful life they’re building together.

WEDDING SUPPLIERS INFO:

Reception location: Manor Country House Hotel

Wedding Dress from:Perfect Day

Bridesmaids dresses from: River Island

Groomswear from: SD Kells

Make-up by: Kerrie Muphy @ The Beauty Hut Bellanaleck

Hair by: Aileen swift @ Daniel Anthony’s

Flowers by: Cherished Fauxever

Room Décor by: Elegant Wedding and Events Stylist

Rings from: S Samuel’s Enniskillen

Cake by: Leah philips – Enniskillen

Stationery by: Lakeland Prints