It was all about flame throwers, burlesque outfits, pole dancing and Facebook wedding invitations, on this week’ s episode of Don’t Tell The Bride.
With a gothic meets glamorous rock theme, the groom David O’ Leary from Allenwood in Co. Kildare had the task of arranging one of the most unconventional weddings on the show to date.
Niamh Nevin and David first laid eyes on each other in their early teens, although nothing materialised from the situation. After a few catch-ups throughout the years, the lovebirds finally shared their first date at nineteen years of age in Robertstown, a place near where they both live. Despite thinking David was a chatterbox that “wouldn’t shut up,” Niamh couldn’t deny the spark that existed between them.
It was refreshing to hear that Niamh didn’t follow suit to the majority of brides in previous series, meaning that bling, castle venues, princess style dresses and a church decorated to the brim with pink bows and flowers galore, were out of the question. Instead, she set her sights on a red and black gothic inspired dress that represented her own unique and quirky style.
When David initially talked about acrobats, circus acts, corsets, mesh tutus, singing midget waiters and flame throwers (I kid you not), it seemed like the imaginative husband-to-be was playing with fire. Thankfully, when it came to following through on his plans, he came to his senses (well almost!),
I adored the champagne and black gown that Niamh tried on in Harvey Nichols. It suited her personality, and fit in nicely with her rock chic theme. David picked up some questionable burlesque dresses on his travels, and for his sake I am so glad that he didn’t purchase the red corset he spotted in Retro in George’s St. Arcade (what was he thinking?).
I couldn’t get over the amount of effort and detail that David put into his mood boards. He had a strong vision of how he wanted his beautiful bride to look, and the results were stunning. I was extremely impressed with the dip dye detail that he recommended at the end of the dress, and Caoimhe Keane did a superb job at piecing the handmade gown together.
It was slightly disappointing that David went against his partner’s wishes of having an antique country location with character, and opted for a modern venue in the centre of town.
The Roundwood House in Co. Laois seemed like the perfect place for a civil wedding, with beautiful grounds, and the option to have the reception in the barn. I also loved the fact that only a dozen weddings occur in the manor each year, making the venue feel more exclusive and special.
I was also stunned that David cut corners by sending out Facebook invitations to his guests. On the up side, at least a great deal of thought was put into Niamh’s rock n’ roll guitar invitation. It was a clever idea, and oddly enough was very romantic.
When it came to the bridesmaid’s attire, I couldn’t flaw their overall look. The black frocks and red shoes looked sophisticated and tasteful. Well done David!
It may have been an unconventional wedding, but it certainly did rock!
Laura Delaney
