I’m sure you all know I’m based in Mid Ulster, but not many people know I’m lucky to live just outside the small town of Portglenone. It used to be famous for monks, now I’m more likely to get someone asking do I know LMD! (yes I do, and yes she’s just lovely). What people are only beginning to realise though, is that Portglenone is actually the perfect wedding shopping destination. From custom ring design at McKnight’s jewellery store, to choosing your dream dress in Wedded Bliss – that’s only the beginning! You can literally choose everything you might need here.
So when talented local business owner Nikki Dunlop approached me to capture a series of images for her to use to market her floral creations I was immediately on board – and I suggested we draw in some of our other wedding vendors for a styled photoshoot to showcase what’s available right here in our lovely town. We also spoke to Lorna at Little Pearl Co, and the plan slowly came together. I had worked at Local Women Magazine for a few years as their stylist on editorial shoots, and one of my favourite venues was Ballyscullion Park in Bellaghy – which is now a very chic and exclusive private wedding venue a short drive away. It’s also a stones throw from our friend Gemma (of Gemma’s Cakes in Castledawson). Do you follow Gemma’s blog, if not why not?! She has the best adventures travelling around Northern Ireland delivering their award winning cakes!
And so it began, planning our styled photoshoot using only products sourced locally. In fact, the only thing we had to widen the net for was our selection of suits from Hire Class in Ballymena. And oh how they delivered, insisting the boys were both properly fitted. Talk about attention to detail, so they’re well worth the short drive! We even picked up designer china and cutlery from the wedding gift list at Fullan’s.
Our models were real couples. Danielle & Nigel are getting married in less than a year, while Gary & Paula had literally stepped off the plane from Santorini. And Gary had just proposed! They all fell in love with Ballyscullion, it’s just a dream of a venue. The sun shone, and we explored the grounds with camera’s in hand & smiles on our faces.
So please take a look at what we created, our dresses were provided by Wedded Bliss, the stunning designer shoes, headpieces and jewellery are all from the incredible online boutique Little Pearl Co, the suits are from Hire Class – and the absolutely stunning floral crowns, bouquets, styled table settings and that little brass box showcasing Danielle’s ring (which Nigel designed himself) are all courtesy of Nikki Dunlop Floral Design. Her work always leaves me speechless, she’s simply amazing at what she does. Feel free to give our blog post a little share, and encourage your newly engaged friends to pay us all a visit in Portglenone. They won’t be disappointed because there is truly a vast amount of experience on offer, and of course the service is second to none.
Stunning!
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