A Modern Day Romance: Rachael + Christopher At Ballygally Castle

Chic, glamorous and classical, are but a few words to describe Rachael and Christopher’s wedding at Ballygally Castle. The plush interiors of the building perfectly complemented the couple’s luxurious colour palette of rich purple, pink and soft mauve.

The bride pulled out all the stops with a surprise change into a second gown, both equally stunning. Every last detail was planned meticulously from romantic lanterns and bespoke candles, to a whiskey and cigar bar for friends and family to enjoy. Huge thanks to Rachael and Christopher for sharing their special day and to their photographer Eddie McDowell for giving us permission to publish these gorgeous shots.

The Beginning + The Proposal

“We like to call it a “modern day” fairytale – we met on Tinder! We immediately organised our first date to Horratio Todds in Belfast, and four months later I moved to Exeter to live with him.

“We went to Lanzarote for NYE 2015. We had been having a few drinks at a local bar, then went for a walk along the beach just before midnight. Whilst I was admiring the view, Chris was asking a group of local boys to take photos on his phone. Next thing I know, fireworks are going off at the stroke of midnight and he was down on one knee!”

The Venue

“Chris wanted our reception by the Sea, I had visited the Ballygally Castle many times before and always knew it would be the perfect place for our wedding. I can barely find enough words to express our gratitude to Norman and the team at Ballygally castle for the truly magnificent job they did before, during and after our Wedding at the Castle. Every single request we and our guests had, was delivered to perfection and with a smile. Nothing, absolutely nothing was too much bother.”

The Wedding Stylist

“As I live in England, my step-mum Julie Roulston, the Head of Marketing & PR company Think Eighty20 Ltd, did most the leg work. She kindly sourced various items, met with suppliers, organised the hairstyles with The Hair Pad and make up with Rebecca Saulters, she also added little touches that made the day so special and unique. Charm Wedding Studio provided our chair covers, trees, carpet, lanterns and dance floor. The day was so successful that she was asked to be the wedding coordinator for two of our friends getting married next year!”

The Dress

“My dress was drop waist with a corset style bodice and tulle skirt by Maggie Sottero, I purchased it from an amazing bridal boutique in Exeter called Pirouette. The heavy beading on top, combined with the long, full skirt made me feel like a true princess. I added a big petticoat underneath to give it that extra wow factor! I then changed into my evening dress, which was much easier to navigate when mingling with guests, and more importantly, dance in! It was a figure hugging with a low back and slit up the side giving it a very glamorous feel.”


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