A Country Love Story: Rebekah & Daniel’s Rustic Romance
When dietitian Rebekah Calvert from the windswept shores of Cloughey, Co. Down, met farmer Daniel Maxwell from the rolling green fields of Augher, Co. Tyrone, no one could have guessed that a casual pizza night with friends would be the start of a life-changing love story.
The pair first crossed paths in a small local pub following a catch-up dinner between Rebekah and her girlfriends. Daniel happened to walk in that evening, and sparks flew almost instantly. “We got chatting, exchanged numbers, and met again for dinner in Moira—it was halfway between our homes,” says Rebekah. “And the rest, as they say, is history.”
Three years later, Daniel proposed in the most heartfelt way—completely surprising Rebekah during a beach walk in Cloughey, the very place they had gone to visit her mum. “We were just walking along the sand like we always did, and suddenly he got down on one knee with a ring box,” she recalls. “I had no idea he’d been secretly ring shopping with his sister!” The ring? A timeless triple round-cluster diamond piece he picked himself from Bogues in Omagh. “He did very well,” Rebekah adds with a smile.
From Engagement to ‘I Do’
With a wedding date set for 28th September 2024, planning kicked off with excitement and efficiency. “Choosing the date made everything feel real,” says Rebekah. Despite juggling full-time work, the sale of her house, moving, and the start of building a new home, the couple stayed calm and organised. “Booking early was key,” they both agree.
Rebekah found her dream dress at Ivory & Pearl in Comber—a breathtaking Anna Campbell gown known as the ‘Finley.’ “It had everything I wanted—lace, sequins, that elegant square neckline, and the most beautiful petal sleeves.” Keeping the dress a surprise for her bridesmaids made the big reveal on the morning of the wedding even more special.
Her two best friends, Andrea and Angela, wore bridesmaid dresses from La Mariée Bridesmaids in Newry, while Daniel and his groomsmen, Paul and David, were sharply dressed in looks from Nineteen83 Gentlemen’s Fashion in Omagh.
A Farmer, His Bride & One Very Special Cow
Rebekah and Daniel said their vows at Ballynanny Methodist Church, Ballygawley, surrounded by 130 of their closest friends and family. The reception followed at the elegant Corick House Hotel & Spa in Clogher, a venue chosen for its warm country charm.
While there wasn’t a formal theme, elements of Daniel’s farming life—and his beloved pet cow, Princess—made delightful appearances throughout the day. From a personalised cake topper featuring Princess and Rebekah’s pet cat, to floral-filled milk churns at the church doors and cow-themed favours, their wedding was a playful and heartfelt nod to the life they’re building together. “We even pulled on our wellies to take photos in the field—and with Princess, of course!” says Rebekah.
Moments to Remember
The day unfolded perfectly. There were laughs (like when the best man pulled out a ladder during his speech so Daniel could be “the tallest man in the room”), music and meaningful personal touches. Rebekah’s uncle and cousin played the bagpipes, and Daniel’s sister sang both during the ceremony and later that evening. Guests enjoyed a photo booth, sweet cart, and even left voice messages on an audio guestbook—an especially touching keepsake for the couple.
Rebekah’s favourite moment? “Seeing Daniel at the top of the aisle,” she says. “That, and getting ready with my mum and the girls.” For Daniel, the highlight was simple: “Getting to marry my wife and having an incredible day surrounded by everyone we love.”
Their first dance, to Restless Road’s “Growing Old With You,” was as intimate and romantic as the lyrics suggest—marking the beginning of their next chapter with grace and warmth.
Advice, Reflections & What’s Next
Looking back, the couple’s only regret was not building in more time during the drinks reception to mingle with guests. Their advice for future brides and grooms? “Be prepared and book early,” says Rebekah. “It really helps reduce stress. And definitely aim to be ready at least an hour before you leave for your ceremony—things get tight!”
Following the celebrations, the couple are looking forward to a sun-soaked honeymoon in South Africa and Zanzibar this February. Until then, they’re soaking in newlywed life and watching their dream home come together. “Married life is great,” Rebekah beams. “We’d already built such a strong partnership. Now we get to build our home—literally and figuratively—together.”
WEDDING SUPPLIERS INFO:
Reception location: Corick House Hotel and Spa
Wedding Dress from: Ivory & Pearl Bridal Boutique
Bridesmaids dresses from: La Mariee Bridesmaids
Groomswear from: Nineteen83
Make-up by: Emma Scott Make-up
Hair by: Jennifer MacPherson Hairstyling
Flowers by: The Foraging Florist
Cake by: Heavenly Treats
Personalised Cake Topper: Those Wee Doddles
Personalised Favours: IncredABLE-y
Transport from: Champagne Moments and Mercedes Wedding Car Hire
Photography by: Heart Lake Photography
Videography by: E and L Wedding Films
Entertainment by:__
Harpist – Emer Shearer
Band: Jukebox Jurors
Photo booth & audio book by: Erne photo booths
