WEDDING PARTY

Shirley - MAID OF HONOUR

If you’ve ever heard a scream of “YEOOOO!” in the distance, chances are you were within a five-mile radius of Shirley. 

If you’re attending the wedding, you’re bound to get to know her,  mostly because after one glass of bubbles, there’ll be no keeping the microphone out of her hands. (We can only hope she doesn’t treat us to her singing voice… again.) 

Jokes aside, Shirley is one of the bravest, kindest, most fiercely loyal people I’ve ever known. 

She’d fight the world for her family — and probably win. 

I’m endlessly grateful and proud to call her my aunt, and now, my maid of honour too. 

Rachel - BRIDESMAID

Rachel’s been in my life since day one — my older cousin, One Direction convertor, partner in childhood performances, and co-creator of a now (unfortunately)infamous ‘What Makes You Beautiful’ music video that haunts us online to this day. 

Some of my favourite memories are from those Sunday evenings putting on chaotic living room shows, prancing around in fairy wings to our meticulously curated dance routines, and occasionally tormenting Paddy (sorry again). 

She’s taught me many things over the years, some profound, others… probably best left unspoken, and she’s also been a spiritual mentor, encouraging me in my faith and walk with God. 

I’m endlessly thankful for the memories we’ve made, the guidance she’s given me, and the constant presence she’s been in every chapter of my life. I couldn’t imagine this day without her standing by my side.

Ella - BRIDESMAID

When I first met Ella, I was suspicious (sorry, Ella) because not just anyone is good enough for my wee brother. But credit where it’s due: Paddy has excellent taste.

Ella is the kind of person who could forget where she put her phone… while she’s on it. She has a wonderful sense of humour, is completely honest and unfiltered (in the best way), and endlessly loyal - and we’re all the better for having her around. Trust me, if you need someone in your corner, Ella’s the one you want backing you up.

She’s thoughtful, radiant (inside and out), and always completely herself.

I’m so grateful to call her a friend and even more grateful she said yes to standing with me on wedding day. 

Good job, Paddy!

Francesca - BRIDESMAID

Francesca and I met working in our local art shop, but let’s not pretend we bonded over a mutual appreciation for fine arts, it was our unfiltered humour and shared absurdity that really sealed the deal. 

She made every shift brighter, and has made every season of my life lighter ever since. 

When I became bedbound, she came round every week without fail for our ‘crafternoons’ — we’d paint, laugh, talk nonsense, and just exist in the comfort of each other’s company (with some boba!)

She’s endlessly kind, effortlessly hilarious, and truly one of the best answers to prayer I’ve ever received. I’m so thankful for her friendship and so proud to have her by my side on the happiest day of my life.

Matthew - BEST MAN

Matthew is my older brother by three years and, despite that head start, I still managed to catch him. He also went to Stranmillis, though he took the other path and studied primary education. We’re not the type to get overly sentimental, but he’s my brother, and I’m genuinely glad he’s here with me. It wouldn’t feel right without him.

Mark - GROOMSMAN

Mark and I met at Stranmillis doing technology and design, which means we have spent countless late nights working on projects and long days tackling assignments. Sometimes we even get actual work done. He is a loyal friend, a calm head when things go wrong, and one of the few people who genuinely understands what we are doing half the time. I am very glad he is on this journey with me, and even more glad there are no circuit boards involved.

Josh - GROOMSMAN

Josh is one of my closest friends from Stranmillis and is currently studying maths and science with education, which basically makes him a full time nerd. He is kind hearted, steady, and always there when you need him. He is also slowly going grey and once lost quite a bit of hair in a mysterious incident involving crème eggs. Whether he dyes it or embraces the silver fox look, I am proud to have him standing with me.

Paddy - GROOMSMAN

Paddy is Ruth’s brother and someone I have come to respect deeply. He is fiercely protective of his family, full of kindness, and always knows how to make people laugh. That said, his driving history is a bit of a saga. One car was crashed, another mysteriously blew up, and the others work most of the time if you ask nicely. Joking aside, Paddy has a huge heart and I am genuinely honoured to have him standing with me on the day.