Real Weddings: Victor and Raymond tie the knot in a classic Dublin venue
Living in Sydney together, Victor and Raymond returned home to Dublin to celebrate their wedding with loved ones in 25 Fitzwilliam Place. They truly made their day their own with matching green velvet suits with bespoke lining, a custom cake topper with their two doggos and a ceremony that included their guests.
THE COUPLE
Victor, IT infrastructure and voice engineer, and Raymond, environmental engineer.
THEY LIVE
in Newton, Sydney, Australia.
THE VENUE
25 Fitzwilliam Place, Dublin.
PHOTOGRAPHY
Dena Shearer Photography.
THEY MET
Ray and I met in Sydney, Australia. We were both members of the local dragon boat club, where we met, raced, and paddled together. We became friends and ran in one of Sydney’s half marathons together. Both Ray and I competed at the state level for New South Wales and on the world stage in Hungary when our club’s mixed crew qualified in 2018.
Another passion of ours has been marching in and assisting with the Sydney LGBTQI+ Mardi Gras parade, to help pave the way for a safe and supportive community, that positively welcomes and allows everyone to be their full authentic self.
Ray and I decided that getting together would be a dream come true for both of us. We knew this through many a conversation together, and also from hints gestured by close friends. From there it has been mostly smiles and admiration for one another.
THE PROPOSAL
During a trip home to Ireland in 2019, we canoed to a very remote beach on the shores of Lough Dan called Inchavore. Victor romantically proposed down on one knee. Nobody really knew what was happening for the first five to ten seconds, but it was witnessed by my sister, nephew and nieces, as they’d also canoed over!
THE SUITS
Both of us wore matching emerald green, velvet jackets with individually chosen printed, silk lining to match our character. This was complemented by white cream cotton trousers, French cuff shirts, black velvet bowties, gold cufflinks, and black yearling RM Williams boots.
We finished off the look with Taylor Square Green Wool-Linen Suit Jackets from Theodore, paired with white open-collar shirts and midnight blue trousers. This cohesive ensemble showcased our personal style and created a visually stunning wedding party.
THE CEREMONY
In the enchanting Gandon Room of 25 Fitzwilliam Place, a heartfelt humanist ceremony unfolded, led by Moya Corcoran and accompanied by pianist Ronan Murray. With a desire for an engaging and inclusive celebration, we curated a swift ceremony that invited participation from our guests. The beautiful melody of Ben Platt’s Imagine filled the air as Stephen from 25 Fitzwilliam guided us in, while an Irish tradition saw the rings warmed and well wishes offered.
Heartfelt stories and poems were shared, followed by a symbolic hand-fasting ceremony with ribbon. The ceremony concluded with a joyous group photo, accompanied by the lively beats of CeCe Peniston’s Finally. This unforgettable union epitomized love, unity, and the meaningful embrace of traditions, creating lasting memories for all involved.
THE RECEPTION
After the heart-warming ceremony, we descended downstairs, ready to indulge in light refreshments and share laughter with our loved ones. As the tables were set, we made our way back upstairs for a memorable three-course dinner.
The menu featured two delectable options for each course, ensuring everyone could enjoy their preferred flavours. Soft drinks, alongside a choice of a delicious red malbec or a refreshing white Saint Clair, accompanied the culinary delights. The impeccable service provided by Stephen’s team surpassed all expectations, leaving no doubt that 25 Fitzwilliam Place offers an unrivalled level of hospitality in Ireland.
THE ENTERTAINMENT
After dinner, we headed back downstairs; with Mark from Star DJs setting the stage, guests enjoyed a vibrant dancefloor adorned with dazzling lights, smoke machines, and lasers. The night was filled with joyous dancing, laughter, and a memorable New Year’s countdown featuring champagne, wedding cake, and the classic tune of Auld Lang Syne. From the energetic revelry to moments of respite in the cosy sitting room, this unforgettable night of celebration brought together all who attended, creating lasting memories.
THE DECOR
We were lucky; 25 Fitzwilliam was already decorated for Christmas with a huge Christmas tree in the hallway and decorations over the fireplaces, on mantle pieces and in the windows. Table decorations were simple, with several white candles lighting the spaces. The Gandon room looked truly magical, warm and cosy.
THEIR TOP TIPS
Plan well ahead, trust yourselves with the decisions, and follow your heart. Don’t get too hung up on perfection. Most importantly, spend time with your guests and enjoy the day, as it will fly by!
THEY WISH THEY HAD…
Dad to still be with us and be able to celebrate with us.
THEIR BEST MOMENTS
There are so many – all of it! Taking a walk through the local streets taking photos and creating memories with the wedding party before the ceremony began, seeing the guests arrive all excited and so well dressed, savouring the delicious food provided by 25 Fitzwilliam Place, dancing our hearts out and ringing in the New Year.
THE FIRST DANCE SONG
Lovers by Taylor Swift.
THE CREW
Wedding Suits: Theodore. Grooms’ Shoes: RM Williams. Cake: Iren Gedo. DJ: Star DJs. Celebrant: Moya Corcoran. Pianist: Ronan Murray. Venue, Flowers & Food: 25 Fitzwilliam Place.
See more photographs from Victor and Raymond’s wedding in the gallery below.
Photography by Dena Shearer Photography.
Want to see your Real Wedding on IMAGE.ie? Email shayna.sappington@image.ie with the subject line ‘Real Wedding’.
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