Wedding of the Week: More than 20 years together... we had the best day ever

“TO see all our loved ones together in the same room after a very challenging two years with Covid... it really was the best day ever!”

So said Sinead Clohessy, nee Russell, who wed Kevin Clohessy, after more than 20 years together. The couple are both from Youghal, where they still live with their two children, Hannah, aged 16, and Alfie, aged 13. They feature in our Wedding of the Week.

Sinead and Kevin met in Youghal over 20 years ago. She recalled: “I wouldn’t change a thing, despite the 19 year age gap between us... our relationship wasn’t always easy and we were doubted a lot along the way as to how long we would stay together, but we’re over 20 years happily together now so I think it’s safe to say we’re fairly solid!”

In 2020, they decided it was time to tie the knot. They booked their wedding for September 25, 2021, in the Walter Raleigh Hotel in Youghal - but unfortunately they had to postpone due to Covid restrictions. They rebooked for March 25, 2022, at the same venue.

“Thankfully enough, it all went ahead and we had the best day ever,” the bride said.

The couple had a civil ceremony presided over by Rena Noonan, who made it very personal and special.

The bride added: “The Walter Raleigh Hotel was absolutely amazing on the day, from the amazing staff, the meal, the lay-out for the ceremony, etc. It was just fabulous and there’s no better view than looking out over Youghal Harbour, which is directly across the road from the hotel.”

The bride wore a dress by Ronald Joyce, purchased at the Moderne. The suits were from Devereauxs in Dungarvan. The bride’s make-up was by za-makeup from Youghal and the hairdresser was Louise Mason, from Glamour by Lou.

The cake was by the talented Martina Landers from Youghal. It had ivory icing and was detailed with iced sea shells with a Little Mermaid topper.

“We went for this themed cake in memory of Kevin’s late daughter Dayna, who sadly passed away in 1993 and was a huge Little Mermaid fan,” said Sinead. 

“My own late dad James and Kevin’s dad Tom were remembered fondly on the day also, with our beautiful memorial table which had a grey twinkling three feather candle which shone all day in their memory, along with all our other dear loved ones who had sadly passed on.”

Entertaining guests on the day were Stars wedding band from Midleton, who played a fabulous mix of music, followed by a DJ.

The couple’s first dance was to a song inspired by Chicago.