Advice on a venue

RainbowPepper

Hi all,
Long story short, engaged for a few years and we have decided now is the time to actually do this. We're hoping to set the date sometime in July so we haven't got a lot of time!
We're going to have a civil ceremony with about 25 adults and 4 small children/babies, and then a meal after, preferably In the same venue, so we're looking for something pretty simple.
We both like the idea of somewhere with lots of stone and candles so we're thinking about a castle maybe. Has anyone done something similar or seen a venue that would suit something like this? Love to hear your experiences and recommendations!

Milly33

where abouts

RainbowPepper

Milly33 wrote: »

where abouts

Hi

Well we will do anywhere in Ireland...not sure if that makes it easier or harder in the long run!

Milly33

mmmm god id nearly say tis harder not having a definite area ye want to go too. We are only searching at the moment for places going to see a few in Cork next month Ballyvolane House and Blackwater Castle I can let you know what the vibe from them is like if you want me thinks they are more aimed at a few more people but you never know. Blackwater castle seem to have a lovely vibe just from the replies to their emails.

There is DUNGUAIRE CASTLE in Clare.. it is small enough think you can have a civil ceremony there..

RainbowPepper

Milly33 wrote: »

mmmm god id nearly say tis harder not having a definite area ye want to go too. We are only searching at the moment for places going to see a few in Cork next month Ballyvolane House and Blackwater Castle I can let you know what the vibe from them is like if you want me thinks they are more aimed at a few more people but you never know. Blackwater castle seem to have a lovely vibe just from the replies to their emails.

There is DUNGUAIRE CASTLE in Clare.. it is small enough think you can have a civil ceremony there..

Thanks for the ideas, I'll definitely take a look

And congratulations on your engagement!

Moonbeam

The little building for ceremonies in Moyvalley is gorgeous.

grainuaile

We're having a civil ceremony in Markree Castle in Co Sligo so I am biased but (so far) I would definitley recommend them. They are a little more expensive than a normal hotel but not extortionate especially if you're having low numbers. That was our initial plan but the list has spiralled out of all control and now we're struggling to stay below the castles maximum of 170 :O
Its a gorgeous old authentic castle, the ceremony is held in a deconsecrated family chapel then the dining room can be partitioned off so it doesnt look too bare. Unlike some other venues we looked at, they are not in the least snooty or pretentious, the staff are lovely and laid back (although i suppose that doesnt suit everyone, but i like it).

RainbowPepper

Thanks a million for the suggestions, I'll look into all of them and hopefully we can get our list narrowed down

Gatica

Gregans Castle, also in Co. Clare. They do smallish weddings there. Lovely setting in the Burren.