Who knew you could meet your soulmate when out for a walk in a park? Cheeka the Chow Chow is who brought us together, the unusual breed of dog working her magic as cupid.
After being together for quite some time and now living in Holywood Ryan decided to play a few tricks on Wendy on Christmas morning in 2019. Laying out a series of presents for Wendy she secretly hoped for some sparkles hidden amongst them. There was a small box which caught Wendy’s attention, she found a beautiful pair of earrings, then a gorgeous designer bag, still no sparkles. Ryan sensing that Wendy was perhaps a bit downhearted said that maybe in a few years the diamond would appear but in the meantime she should look inside the handbag. Off course there nestling in the soft leather was a stunning emerald cut diamond on a diamond encrusted band from Fred J Malcolm. The proposal didn’t quite go to plan but was still memorable with a week full of celebrations with our families.
Dress shopping took Wendy to Eden Bridal on the Belmont Road after a not so pleasant experience elsewhere, her sister had spotted the perfect dress for Wendy which they were able to source at Eden Bridal. After training a lot to keep her nerves at bay, Wendy ended up needing to change her dress again for a smaller size, eventually getting her dream dress. Bridesmaids dresses for best friend Jordana and niece Katie were found online from Chi Chi London. With Red Groomswear providing the grooms outfits for Ryan and his best friends Martin and Stephen.
Wendy is a master organiser and had everything labelled and sorted so well that it only took 45 minutes the night before the wedding to dress the room. After booking the wedding in February 2020 for October 2021, thankfully their date didn’t need to be changed although a few guests were unable to make it on the day they still managed to have a fantastic and laid back day. After marrying on 16 October 2021 in St Philip & St James Church of Ireland in Holywood, the couple and wedding guests headed to Ballydugan Mill in Downpatrick for a rustic themed reception. Deciding on a simple, rustic theme made the day feel so relaxed and chilled which meant that everything just fell into place and happened as it was supposed to. With many of the restrictions being lifted it meant that the guests were able to finally let loose on the dancefloor and just really enjoy themselves dancing with their glowsticks.
Sticking to a budget is definitely easier when you have talented friends who were able to do all of the bride’s and bridesmaid’s hair and even give the couple the loan of some vintage cars for the bridal party to travel in style. This meant that Wendy and Ryan were able to spend a bit more on rings and photography.
The day went without any major disasters although a couple of mishaps happened but were soon rectified. Ryan missed the cue by the Minister to kiss the bride which made for a lovely photo after giggling when he had to be reminded. The DJ had a slight panic when the WiFi was a bit patchy for the evening reception, however this was sorted when Ryan told him to just play what he had and not to take any requests. This clearly worked as many guests thought he was amazing.
Our highlight of the day was hard to pick but Wendy especially enjoyed the morning of the wedding, getting ready with the Bridesmaids and then arriving at the church and seeing Ryan standing waiting for her. Ryan said his highlight was seeing Wendy arrive with her Dad and just to see her looking so stunning.
Wendy and Ryan’s tip to future brides and grooms is to not worry so much and remember the reason why you are getting married. It’s your day so don’t sweat the small stuff.
Great advice from this beautiful couple just before they headed off for a mini moon in Dublin and Killarney, a longer honeymoon is planned for later this year.
WEDDING SUPPLIERS INFO NAME AND TOWN
Reception location: The Mill At Ballydugan
Wedding Dress from: Eden Bridal
Groomswear from: Red Groomswear
Make-up by: Maid by Sinead Bridal Makeup
Flowers by:Scarlet and Crimson Flowers
Rings from: Fred J. Malcolm
Cake by:Tatty Tortoise Cakes
Photography by: Hammond Photography
