It was all about something old, something new, something borrowed and a big tattoo on this week’s episode of Don’t Tell The Bride.
Derek and Leona are childhood sweethearts, laying eyes on each other at the tender age of seventeen, when Leona was just still at school (Clearly Derek forgot that the camera was rolling when he made “short skirt”). The inseparable lovebirds grew up close to each other in Sandyford, and have a lot of mutual friends in common.
Ten years on the couple still reside in Sandyford, but they are now living together on the same grounds as Derek’s parents and his two brothers (I kid you not). I couldn’t help but giggle when Leona's friend compared the house to Heuston Station as there are always visitors.
Ironically, it was the groom for once who appeared to be the inconsolable emotional partner. While Derek wiped away with his crocodile tears with his t-shirt, Leona’s main concern was that her “unorganised” by nature fiancé pulled off the wedding of her dreams.
When Derek suggested having the ceremony in the church of the hospital that he worked in, I instantly predicted that the wedding was going to be a total disaster. Could it have been more inappropriate? Despite encounter in what Leona deemed to be the biggest disaster imaginable on her wedding day, Derek made the most out of a bad situation.
I empathised with Leona when she realised that she would be having a civil ceremony in Summerhill House Hotel, and not the grand castle wedding that she expected. However, Derek quickly turned her frown upside down, instilling confidence in his partner that the foundations of weddings are based on love, and not materialistic objects.
I was extremely impressed when Derek managed to snag an all inclusive deal for the strapless wedding gown and shoes all for €725 in Gregory Designs in Wicklow, and then haggle the two bridesmaid dresses down to €150 each in Fran & Jane. Who knew high-street bargains were so easy to find? I’m sure the fact that the show was televised had nothing to do with these generous discounts!
It was a nice token when Derek branded himself with his wife’s name on his body, and luckily she appreciated his thoughtful gesture (phew). I also thought that the speaking teddy bear invitation was one of the most impressive invitations on the show to date.
Derek really did put his heart and soul into the wedding, and should be proud of everything he achieved in such a short amount of time.
When it comes to these newlyweds, love definitely conquered all!
Laura Delaney
