The Wedding...

I've got 3 baskets of ironing to do but I'd rather tell you about the wedding on Friday. What a lovely day - I'm worn out from all the talking, dancing, smiling and VERY high shoes. But back to the preparation beforehand...

First thing on Friday, I had my hair put up thanks to the lovely Suzanne at Hair Design in Dunmurry, Belfast. This took about 15 minutes and lasted 36 hours. I even slept in it as it was too perfect to take down (and I was a bit, ahem, 'tired' going to bed at 2am). Now my hair does not like being put up so this is some achievement. I'll be back next time I need a hassle free hairstyle for a special occasion.

Next up, it was off to the hotel - the Slieve Donard in the seaside town of Newcastle, Co Down, to get dressed for the ceremony. I shared a room with my BFF, Claire and don't we scrub up well?

The beautiful bride was a little late - but that's allowed when you look this good..

The ceremony was magicial - in a room that overlooked the crashing waves and the mountains of Mourne. A beautiful back-drop for the photos..

some gorgeous 'hens' making the most of the sunshine...

Close up of the bouquet and the cake - one layer was chocolate, one was lemon and one was fruitcake! And I tasted them all :)

Catherine had thought of everything, from the unique place settings to the button artwork by local company, Buttonbaps, which was commissioned for the day

What's a girl to wear? Well...after much drama, I was offered this dress by a very kind friend (THANK YOU Maria!). It's a heavy jersey dress in a light navy colour by a brand called Rina Scimento from a local boutique, Brazil. Simply perfect. Fitted beautifully, was flattering across the food baby and was accommodating enough for some serious dance-floor moves later on. These dresses come in red, black, dark navy, grey and green and retail for £69.99. I'm wearing a size M - which would be a 10-12.

My necklace was a gift from the guys at Boden who were keen to help with my outfit woes! It's the Heirloom Necklace - a fabulous piece, navy and blue stones with a black ribbon tie. It couldn't have been more perfect for the dress. Shoes by Zara and I can confirm they were worn for 12 hours straight without a blister. Seriously impressed as they are SO high. My feet were aching but not sore. Clutch is an oldie from TK Maxx.

I didn't want the day to end...it was simply wonderful. Thank you Catherine and Owen for inviting me.....and I'll leave you with my favourite one of the official photos from the day, taken by the talented (and incredibly laid back) Peter, from Peter Thomas Photography...

Oh and a footnote...Aileen, one of the hens was wearing the MOST fab shoes. She got them in Primark for £15 just last week! And she managed to wear them for the whole day..

Loving the grey and burgundy and as it didn't seem right to just share her foot - here's Aileen (right), with another of the hens, Seana. Loving Seana's floral dress:

I'll be back soon...off now to get some cleaning done ahead of the Boden party on Thursday <panic>!!

Ax