From Tinder to “I Do”
“You are my today and all of my tomorrows.” — Leo Christopher
Love stories are always special, but some are so unique and delightful that they deserve to be shared. Meet Michelle Craig and Joseph Doherty, a couple from Derry whose romantic journey began with a chance reconnection on Tinder and led to a beautiful wedding and an adventurous honeymoon.
Michelle, a Payroll Consultant, and Joe, a Fire Officer, both hail from Derry. Though they knew each other from their 20s, life had its own plans, and it wasn’t until much later that their paths crossed again, thanks to Tinder. Joe, ever the romantic, claims he always had a “wee eye” on Michelle.
Their first date was memorable for all the wrong reasons. A restaurant mishap involving a full bottle of wine spilling all over Michelle’s outfit could have dampened the evening, but it turned into a funny anecdote that they cherish. Michelle had to dash home for a quick change, leaving Joe as a nervous wreck at the restaurant. Luckily, they were just 15 minutes away from home, and the evening was saved.
Two years into their relationship, Joe planned the perfect proposal. During a sunny vacation in Ibiza, as Michelle was sunbathing by the pool, Joe pretended to head to the bathroom. Moments later, a waiter arrived with a bottle of Moët and two glasses. When Michelle questioned if Joe had ordered it, he played along until the waiter presented a ring on the tray, saying, “I also have something else for you, madam.” The pool area erupted in cheers and camera flashes as Joe asked Michelle to be his forever. It was a beautiful moment that left Michelle shaking with joy for hours.
Planning a wedding can be stressful, but for Michelle, it was a dream come true. She found her perfect dress at Ivy and White in Belfast, a stunning creation by Made with Love. Initially, Michelle had her heart set on another dress, but a suggestion from Kerry at the shop led her to try on a gown she thought she wouldn’t suit. It turned out to be “the one,” proving that sometimes the perfect choice is the least expected.
Michelle’s bridesmaids, dressed in beautiful gowns from Stacie’s UK, added a touch of elegance to the wedding. Her bridal party included her best friend Wendy Crawford (Maid of Honour), friends Karen Collins and Megan Christy, and Joe’s daughter, Anya Doherty. Each bridesmaid has a special nickname, showing the close-knit and fun-loving nature of the group.
Joe and his groomsmen, dressed to the nines in outfits from DC Menswear, Derry, completed the stylish ensemble. Joe’s best man was his best friend, Eugene Crawford, with Michael Craig (Michelle’s brother), Callum Bradley Craig (Michelle’s son), and Alex (Joe’s best friend) standing by his side.
On 27th April 2024, Michelle and Joe tied the knot at the Ebrington Hotel in Derry, the first civil ceremony held at the newly constructed venue. Despite the initial risk of booking a hotel under construction, the choice paid off spectacularly. With 125 guests in attendance, the couple celebrated their love with a modern, classy theme featuring neutral colours, black and cream décor, and a fun Vogue box photo booth.
The ceremony was particularly special as Michelle and Joe included their children, Callum and Anya, in a traditional hand-tying ritual. They also wrote their own vows, adding a deeply personal touch that left no dry eye in the house.
The wedding day went off without a hitch, although the couple didn’t stick to their budget Michelle has no regrets. “It was supposed to be a small wedding from the start and it just escalated! I got carried away! I thought I am only going to do this once, why not!” she said. The highlight of the day was the heartfelt ceremony, but the celebrations continued with a 17-day Mediterranean cruise, a prize Joe won in an ITV competition. They even took their best man and maid of honour along for the ride, making it an unforgettable honeymoon.
Married life has been nothing short of amazing for Michelle and Joe. Celebrating their love has been a whirlwind adventure, and they look forward to a future filled with happiness. Michelle’s advice to other couples planning their wedding? “Enjoy the build-up to the day. Don’t let the small things stress you out. All that matters is you and your husband-to-be on the day.”
Here’s to Michelle and Joe, whose love story reminds us that sometimes, the best things in life come from unexpected places. Cheers to many more happy tomorrows!
WEDDING SUPPLIERS INFO NAME AND TOWN
Reception location: Ebrington Hotel
Wedding Dress from: Ivy and White
Bridesmaids’ dresses from: Stacie’s UK
Grooms wear from: D&C Menswear
Make-up by: Dani @ Blush Beauty Bar
Hair: Nathan Wade & Michelle Kelly @ Life in the Blonde Lane
Wedding Celebrant: Civil Celebrations
Flowers: Sass & Halo
Room Décor by: Ultimate Touches / Champagne Memories
Rings from: Callaghan Jewellers
Cake by: Burnseys Delights
Stationery by: Ryan Patrick Design Wedding Invitations
Photography by: Stephen Black Wedding Photography
Videography by: Bobby at Motion Media
Entertainment by: Cello Fella & Mojo
