The end to our wedding day was perfect.

Since we had an afternoon reception, we had the whole evening to hang out with family and friends.  It was great to come home and reflect on the day.

We had many games of wii bowling, opened our wonderful gifts and got together to watch the wedding video and look at the photos from the day.

It was a wonderful way to end our celebration in jeans and slippers!

via personal collection

So you’ve seen our ceremony, reception, cake cutting, time with family and friends and now the “after party.”  Next week I’ll finish up with our 1st anniversary cake celebration- one year too early!

Today is all about our family and friends that came to support us at our wedding.

Knowing only a handful will be able to travel over to Ireland for our traditional wedding, it made me feel great that my family and friends were able to be apart everything.

We didn’t need dancing or music, just good conversation and great company. Most of the day was spent catching up with those we hadn’t seen in quite a while.

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Next up, our cake cutting (for the last installment of our wedding, click here)!

{all images via personal collection}

I absolutely adored our wedding cake.  I wanted something simple and classic.  I had the bakery do a simple rustic technique on the cake and while I added the flower as a nice accent.  The combination of vintage, classic, simple and rustic really worked well together.

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This week is all about our reception decor!

The best part about getting married around the holidays is the instantaneous decor. Everything is just so beautiful with the beautiful twinkly lights, fresh pine and glowing bulbs.

Since we were busy moving and preparing all the details for our wedding in Ireland, my mom really took charge in putting everything together for us.  She did such a wonderful job!

I was against favors of any kind so instead, we printed off our engagement photos for guests to take.  This went over really well and everyone loved the idea.

The place cards were just so cool.  They were made out of different types of scrapbooking paper [completely inexpensive yet a big impact!]  We were able to coordinate designs with menu options so the servers would know which entree to serve.

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Are you ready for some fun! The day of our wedding was surprisingly calm. I didn’t have a care in the world and just felt happiness.

{I admit, the night before I warned everyone that no one is to be stressed or freaking out on the big day or else they would be escorted back home!}

Here are a few shots of us getting ready. I put on my father-of-the-bride soundtrack and got to work!

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Here’s a sneak peek from when we eloped in Pennsylvania over the holidays!

Yes, I know we didn’t technically elope but it sounds so exciting!

We had such a fabulous time.  It was especially special that my family were able to share in our special day.

More of our winter wedding in the coming weeks!

via Personal Collection

I can’t wait to tell you all about our wedding over the holidays but first, I want to share with you some special photos!

A few months back my lovely photographer friend, Kate Rose, had a fundraiser for thirst relief and did a raffle for an engagement session.  I was so lucky to have won! We didn’t plan on doing an engagement session but I’m so glad we got the opportunity.

Kate and her fiance, Mike did a beautiful job with our photos! They were so fun and easy to work with.

There was no contest, we decided to have our photos taken around Beacon Hill, Charles Street and the Charles River in Boston.  I just love the atmosphere and New England Fall feeling that this area captures.

Here a just a few photos from our photo shoot!

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Getting legally married prior to our main wedding has a lot of benefits.

To start with, we now no longer have to be in Ireland a week prior to the wedding in order to register.  This means, more time for our honeymoon!  Additionally, I’ll be able to take my time in changing my last name and doing all of the necessary paperwork involved.

Among the many other reasons, the main benefit is that Ger will be able to apply for his Green Card.  By doing it in advance, Ger will be legally able to enter back into the U.S. after the wedding!

Since we decided to have the legal ceremony over Christmas, we’ve had to put everything together rather quickly.  I immediately called up the local courthouse to see exactly what we needed to do.

via Ruby Press

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I’m back! We moved into our new home and I am loving it!

Now that moving and unpacking is behind us, it’s now time to think about our first wedding celebration.  It is only (3) weeks away!

First up is the wedding rings.  Originally I was against the exchanging of rings portion of the ceremony because I didn’t want to take away from the official wedding.  Boy did Etsy change my mind! They have the best alternative rings.  What a great way to have a memento of the big day.

Here are my favorites!

This first one was incredibly sweet.  I had been eying this for quite a while.  I love the unique look of this band.  It is simple yet very sweet.

via White Fly on Etsy

I typically am not a “birdie” fan but find this ring really cool.  I don’t know if this one says wedding in any way, but it’s still great.

via Ottobone on Etsy

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Since our civil wedding is coming up in about a month, I really need to get on the ball and make sure I have all of my ducks in a row! I’m sure it is going to be quite cold and thinking of getting a cute little wrap to go over my dress.  Just like this one!

Fashion Bride via Weddingbee

I really like the look of these; a little more appropriate for my dress.

via Modern Romance

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