Wedding of the Week: Cork couple have a very ‘pawsitive’ proposal

THIS Cork couple were brought together with a bit of help from a very special four-legged friend.

Sharon Coutts, from Grange, and John Kelleher, from Gurranabraher, first met eight years ago when the groom brought his dog Heidi to a local vets in Carrigaline. Sharon was working as a dog groomer there.

John recalled: “I didn’t leave without first asking her out. We had our first date a week later in Cork city.”

And so the engagement proposal had to include the pooch too. John continued: “As Heidi, our dog, was the reason we met, I had to include her in the proposal.

“John Moore of Moores jewellers collabrated with me to design the engagement ring, which was based on an old Victiorian design. I had a dog medal made up to say “Will you marry John” on it which I put on another collar.

“I nonchalantly suggested a walk to Gougane Barra one day, which is a favourite walking venue of ours. As we approached the spot in question, I switched collars when Sharon wasn’t looking and let Heidi walk up to her.”

Then he went down on one knee.

The couple, who now live in Macroom, with their daughters were married at Barnabrow House, East Cork, on April 25, 2024 by Pat Clarke Browne, who is a humanist celebrant.

The best man Ger made the wedding cake “which looked and tasted amazing”.

Good friend Afric Prendagast played violin during the ceremony.

Sharon’s dress was bought in the Moderne in Cork city and suits were from Red Church. They both wanted a relaxed, bohemian style.

Make-up was by Charlotte O’Mahoney and hair by Amanda at Amethyst hair design.

The couple had their heart set on an outdoor woodland ceremony and were married with cherry blossom falling over them like “natural confetti”.

We said our own vows amongst our family and close friends, having an old Irish traditional hand fasting ritual, and our daughters lighting the candles. It was a dream come true.

They enjoyed their reception, which included a five course meal, Bachata dancing, a display of West African drumming, and a spectacular fire display by friend Mira.

“The music was amazing as everyone danced all night long. Geraldine and all of the staff at Barnabrow house couldn’t do enough for us and ensured everything flowed perfectly.

“ Our photographer Matt Brooker was amazing from morning until night... he is truly talented. We couldn’t have asked for a better day, full of love, laughter and lots of fun,” said the groom.