A Memorable Day: Newlyweds Joanne & Ian Share Their Story

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Jaonne & ian on their wedding day

Joanne Brownlee and Ian Warwick tied the knot on 22nd February of this year, enjoying a relaxed, memorable day with their friends & family.

I Do Date: 22.02.24

How did you two meet?

‘Ian and I first met at a wedding in May 2017. Knowing there was something special, Ian made the first move by becoming “friends” on social media! We then went on our first date on 22nd February 2019, when we found we had lots to chat about including farming and faith! From that evening the conversation has never stopped – we enjoyed each other’s company and looked forward to the next time we would meet up!’ 

Tell us about the proposal.

‘On my 23rd birthday Ian proposed at Helen’s Bay beach. We had chatted many times about getting married, and the occasion was marked on this special day! I wouldn’t describe our engagement as romantic because the beach was bustling with a TV film crew recording a documentary series, as well as walkers, runners and people enjoying catchup with friends! Despite the chaos on the beach, it was a birthday to remember, and we had a great day!’ 

How did you find the planning process?

‘After our engagement we began researching wedding vendors, we planned the day with guidance and recommendations from friends and family who had recently got married. I often used Instagram and Pinterest for wedding inspiration! We had 18 months to plan the wedding which was ample time to ensure everything was complete.’ 

Where did you get married and why did you choose this venue?

‘We got married in my home church, Loughgall Presbyterian. For me this was a very special place as I grew up attending this church and have many precious memories. The location is suitable for a wedding as it holds approximately 150 people, accessible car parking and an idyllic spot for beautiful photos!’

Who were your wedding suppliers?

‘A special friend offered to create our bouquets, buttonholes and wrist corsage as a wedding gift. The remaining flowers in the church were created by Rose and Thorn in Co. Armagh. The florists collaborated and shared ideas to create beautiful designs that complemented each other and the flowers looked amazing! 

‘The cake was designed and made by Homebaked by Susanne. We chose three flavours, raspberry and white chocolate, lemon and vanilla – it was fresh, light and tasted delicious! 

‘Ruth Corry is a talented harpist who played for guests as they arrived at the reception. Ruth is incredibly talented and played the requested music so beautifully. 

‘Embrace Socials provided evening entertainment for guests. During the evening celebration the group organised a range of social games, line dances, ceilidh dances and live music. We were delighted that our guests joined in on the entertainment! 

‘Our stationery was created by Letter and Lime Design. After a consultation I was confident Amie would deliver on our stationery ideas. We were delighted with our invites and on the day stationery. The quality and design was excellent and many guests complimented the artistic design and quality!’

Who captured your day?

‘As a camera shy couple, Ian and I were quite apprehensive about being subject to smiling for the camera. However, Iain Irwin our photographer and Matthew Fields our videographer captured the day brilliantly, demonstrating professionalism. Iain and Matthew are separate business enterprises, yet worked as a team to create beautiful images and video content. So far, we have received “sneak peaks” of our photos and videos of which we are delighted – and are really looking forward to receiving the rest!’

What did you wear?

‘My wedding dress was designed by Luce Sposa and purchased from Ultimate Dresses, in Derry-Londonderry. It was a fitted flesh-coloured dress, decorated with handmade lace, embroidered beads and sequins. The coat was made of glitter mesh fabric and decorated with the same lace as the dress. A velvet belt with a bow was fastened at the waist. 

‘The bridesmaids’ dresses were made from an ivory velvet material which complemented the ivory belt on the my bridal coat. Minor alterations were required on the bridesmaids dresses, the heavy material was suitable for a February wedding and kept the bridesmaids warm!

‘The navy three-piece suits and shoes were purchased from Nineteen83 Gentleman’s Fashion. The team in Dungannon measured and fitted the men with excellent attention to detail and made it enjoyable for the boys who usually try to avoid clothes shopping!’

What was your favourite moment from the day?

‘Our favorite moment was travelling from the church to the wedding reception venue! On the journey we were able to relax, chat and refresh on sandwiches and sweet treats, which were carefully packed for us.’ 

Do you have any advice for other couples planning their dream day?

‘We would advise any brides and grooms in the planning process to seek reputable suppliers who will be guaranteed to deliver on the day. It’s also a good idea to note down all the costs in a notebook or spreadsheet to keep track of your spending. And, most importantly, enjoy the planning and treasure the wedding day when it arrives!’

THE DREAM TEAM

Photographer: Iain Irwin Photography

Videographer: Matthew Fields Media

Venue: Culloden Estate & Spa

Wedding Dress: Ultimate Dresses

Groomswear: Nineteen83 Gentleman’S Fashion

Florist: Rose & Thorn

Stationery: Letter and Lime Design

Cake: Homebakedbysusanne

Music: Ruth Corry Wedding Harpist and Embrace Socials

Transport: Champagne Moments

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