An Intimate Wedding in the Aran Islands

Katherine & Dan swapped the coastline of Northern California for the wild and remote Aran Islands off the west coast of Ireland for their intimate destination wedding.

Intimate Wedding in the Aran Islands

 

Inishmore -Aran Islands - Elopement Teaser from Amare Stories on Vimeo.

Tell Us About How You Met

We met on Match.com. Katherine had all but given up on online dating after several years of disastrous dates. A last attempt in her search allowed her to find Dan on January 4th, 2014. Six days later they had their first date, and the rest is history!

Tell Us About The Proposal

We both love the coast, and are fortunate that we are a mere 30 minutes from the Pacific Ocean in beautiful Northern California. We decided to take a drive out to Dillon Beach on Christmas Day for a long walk along the shoreline. We talked about how fortunate we were to be spending Christmas together, and he asked me if I had gotten everything I wanted for Christmas. When I answered yes, he then pulled out a little black box and asked me to spend the rest of my life with him. I was not expecting it, and of course, started crying tears of joy. It was the best Christmas present I could ever ask for!

How Did You Choose Your Wedding Location?

We had travelled to Ireland in 2016 to visit Dan’s sister in Galway, and we decided to take a few days to explore Inis Mor. We stayed at a charming B&B, which happened to be next to the Dun Aonghasa prehistoric fort. We explored the fort, marvelling at the beauty of the cliffs. It was magical and so spiritual for both of us. When we discussed where to get married, Dan suggested Ireland, and then we thought Dun Aonghasa would be the perfect venue for us. However, they did not allow weddings at the site, but thankfully our celebrant suggested the Black Fort, also on Inis Mor, and equally as breathtaking. It was an amazing location, with views of the ocean, and peaceful surroundings.

How Did You Find Your Main Vendors?

Not knowing of any vendors in Ireland, I felt it was important to hire a wedding planner. I discovered Waterlily Weddings (their specialty is planning weddings in Ireland), and they provided all the recommendations for the vendors we hired. They were absolutely priceless and covered every possible detail. It made the wedding day so effortless. I loved working with each and every vendor!

What Was The Inspiration Behind Your Wedding Day?

To honor Dan’s Irish heritage, as he is 100% Irish. We wanted it as authentic as possible. We invited the male guests to wear kilts, and most obliged!

What Was Your Favourite Moment From The Day?

We had not ever been to the Black Fort before our wedding day. Walking up to the Black Fort, and hearing the bagpiper playing in the distance was magical. It was if we were in a movie scene. Ahead of us was the fort, the cliffs, the ocean. It took our breath away. We also had a butterfly appear out of nowhere during the ceremony, and it hovered around my bouquet. I felt that was a sign that our loved ones who had departed this earth were there in spirit, in the form of this butterfly.

If You Could Do It All Again, Would You Do Anything Differently?

No! This was a dream come true wedding for both of us.

Any Advice For Other Couples?

Hire a wedding planner. They made wedding planning an ease. Follow your heart, dreams and don’t let others dictate your special day. This is your special moment to preserve and you deserve to have everything done as you imagine it.