Wedding of the Week: An unforgettable day with an entertaining surprise

Marguerite O’Sullivan, from Donoughmore, and Adam O’Sullivan, from Glanmire, first met while studying Social Science at UCC.

A festive proposal under the Christmas lights in Cork city in December, 2022, led to a winter wedding in 2024.

“We got married in St Joseph’s Church, Donoughmore on November 30, where Fr Eamonn McCarthy celebrated a beautiful ceremony with wonderful music provided by Diane and Brendan,” the couple recalled.

“We were fortunate enough to be surrounded by our wonderful parents, siblings, family and friends,” they said, adding, “and especially fortunate to have our three grandmothers present with us on our special day.”

The bride’s eldest brother, John Paul, and Adam’s eldest sister, Rachel, were witnesses on the day.

Marguerite’s school friends Siobhan, Rebecca and Hollie, were by her side as bridesmaids while Adam’s best friends Eduard and Kris were groomsmen. The groom’s nieces, Cali and Bella, were flower girls.

The bride’s ‘Missing Angel’ gown was made by the Australian designer Paul Fox and purchased in Cork’s Brides of Eire.

“It was the first dress I tried on and I was absolutely in love, and we even got to meet Paul on the day, which was spectacular.

“I was fortunate to have the wonderful Sue Pearce alter my dress for me so it would fit perfectly,” she said.

The bridesmaids’ gowns were from Memories, while Gentleman’s Quarters provided beautifully tailored suits to Adam and his groomsmen.

The bridal party’s hair was by Honey Bee and make-up was by Beauty Suite Macroom. Their flowers were from Darling Buds.

Marguerite’s mum Nuala, provided the flower arrangements in the church, with the help of the sacristan Maureen Murphy.

After the ceremony, the couple returned to their alma mater, UCC, for photographs.

“We were blessed with 15 minutes of no rain, which was the only bit of dry weather we got all day, but it did not dampen the spirits of our amazing family and friends.”

They were chauffeured from there to Vienna Woods by East Cork Wedding Cars for their reception, where Niamh O’Connor set guests up for the day ahead with her music.

At the hotel, the couple said they were “just blown away by the professionalism and attention to detail shown by all staff”.

After the meal, the couple were taken by surprise with a secret performance.

“We were surprised by our families after our meal with entertainment in the form of a singing garda, Mr Dickie Donnelly.

“He had everyone on their feet, which set the tone for the rest of the evening. He was utterly brilliant.”

That evening, Celtic Knights ensured the dance floor was never empty while DJ Bryan McDonnell provided music into the early hours of the morning.

The couple’s first dance was to Chris Stapleton’s Tennessee Whiskey.

DJC events provided a selfie mirror which “gave plenty of entertainment” on the day and since, the couple said.

Photos on the day were by the “talented” Laura and Benny photography.

“Not only did they capture every moment of the day with professionalism and subtlety, but they also played an essential role in ensuring that every second of the day ran like clockwork,” the couple said.

Asked what was the most memorable thing about the day, the couple responded: “The love and support of our family and friends, making the day unforgettable.”