Couple, who put plans for big wedding on hold, celebrate their love with vow renewal 

A Cork couple celebrated their love and their journey together over the past 22 years when they renewed their vows last month.

Paul Goggin and Karen Barry, both from Glanmire, first met when Paul was 20 and Karen was 18. “We instantly fell in love and built a relationship on love and laughter,” said Karen.

The couple got engaged 11 years ago. “We knew the choice was either a wedding or to buy a house at the time, so went with a house,” she added.

The couple decided to privately tie the knot in a registry office 10 years ago and agreed to have a big celebration and renew their vows when they reached their 10th anniversary.

“The ten years came around so fast.”

Their family and friends were by their side at the Radisson Blu Hotel in Little Island as they renewed their vows to one another.

Paul and Karen have three children: Keeley, who turns 18 this year, and sons Aaron (11) and Callum (9). 

“Keeley was our bridesmaid and the two boys were mini groomsmen,” the couple said. 

Karen’s sister Triona was also a bridesmaid while Paul’s twin Kevin and best friend Gavin were at his side.

“My dad walked me up the aisle, and I met my two boys halfway up, and they finished the walk, which was a lovely special moment,” said Karen.

The bride’s gown was from Vows, her hair was by Kim Moynihan and make-up was by@ gracesmakeupbase.

“As we already were officially married, we had my childhood best friend Claire renew our vows for us. She gave the most amazing ceremony possible. It was so special and personal.”

Karen’s nan was also present on the day, and the bride was delighted to have four generations of her family at the occasion.

Kelvin Long provided music at the ceremony and the drinks reception, with Pat Fitz ensuring the dance floor was never empty that evening. 

Photos on the day were by Bismark Wedding Photography.

The couple said they will never forget the emotion they felt as they stood at the top of the aisle, looking down on everyone’s ‘happy and smiling’ faces.

“The pride we felt knowing all we have achieved together over 22 years and the lovely life we have built with our kids in Glanmire...The love we felt at that moment, not just between ourselves, but all of our friends and family who had been with us for the journey the past 22 years, is a moment we will never forget. It was worth the 22 year wait, it literally was the best day of our lives.”