The Party of the Century

Ireland won the Rugby much to enjoyment of most of the wedding crowd. There may have been a few heckling Australians barracking for Scotland just to get a rise out of a few of the more committed Irish supporters.

Back to Fallon & Byrne and the room had been transformed. Large round tables had replaced the rows of seating and candles illuminated the room with a gentle glow. Slate with chalked table numbers, created by Craig, were propped up by wine corks donated by family and friends. I didn't get photos of this - but take my word for it, it was gorgeous.

The food was amazing - and many have said, a-typical of the Irish wedding feast which usually consists of two options, fish with overcooked vegetables or chicken with overcooked vegetables. I personally wanted to swim in the raclette but those who tasted the sea bass were going back for more.

Tina made the most amazing wedding cake, her very first attempt, three layers, fruit cake, chocolate and lemon - yummo.

Apparently it is an Irish tradition for each table to bet on the length of the speeches. You each put 2 euro in to a glass and place your bet. Our table did a variation on this with the glass passing around the table each time one of the speakers said "thank you" or a variation of the phrase. Apparently though you don't want to win the kitty because you're then meant to buy each person on the table a drink of their choosing and there is inevitably never enough money in the kitty.

The speeches were recorded for posterity by Georgia - the coolest grooms-maid ever. Here are Craig and Matt's speeches - the others are on their way.

The Groom's Speech:

The Best Man's Speech:

Roisin kindly bought 4 shots of jagermeister and then each person at our table nominated a person to drink each one by giving their dessert spoons away. Needless to say I got a lot of spoons, followed by Catherine and Brent, who were absent during the spoon giving ceremony. Here they are shortly before the jager took effect.

When neighbours become good friends!!

Amy managed to do a Superwoman costume change at some point and then with the formalities of the evening concluded sang a song to Craig, accompanied by the band. She was amazing - that girl has skills!!

And then came the first dance with Amy wearing the pants and Craig wearing the skirt - a true testament to the fact this couple is not traditional!

Craimy set the tone - have a drink, enjoy good food, remember to laugh, have fun, dance like no one is watching and that is what everyone did until shoes were thrown off! A huge thank you to Craimy for allowing us all to share in their happiness and celebrate this great day with them.