From Ballybofey to London and back again for a day filled with love and a splash of Guinness!
By Tara McCormack
THIS week’s wedding spotlight shines on Cliona Rushe from Ballybofey and Marc Flinn from Milton Keynes, who tied the knot in a stunning celebration in Donegal.
The couple, who met ten years ago in London through work, chose to return to Cliona’s hometown to say “I do” in the presence of their family and friends, many of whom made the trip from across the water to share in their special day.
Cliona and Marc, who now live in London with their five-year-old daughter Chloe, always knew they wanted a traditional Irish wedding.
For them, there was no better place than Jackson’s Hotel in Ballybofey, a venue close to their hearts.
“We knew from the moment we got engaged that we wanted to have the wedding in Ballybofey,” Cliona shared.
“Jackson’s Hotel was an easy choice because we’ve celebrated so many family occasions there over the years. It just felt right.”
Cliona and Marc share a sweet moment at their wedding reception in Jackson’s Hotel.
Planning a wedding from another country can be a daunting task, but Cliona couldn’t speak highly enough of the wedding team at Jackson’s.
“They were fantastic! No request was too big, and they even suggested ideas I’d never thought of, like moving away from the traditional long top table.
At first, I was unsure, but it turned out to be one of my favourite aspects of the day. Declan from Simply Devine Weddings dressed it beautifully, and I was blown away by how unique and elegant it looked.”
On the day of the wedding, the couple was overwhelmed by the warmth and hospitality they and their guests received.
“We had a lot of guests from England who had never experienced an Irish wedding, and we wanted to give them a proper Irish welcome,” said Cliona.
“Jackson’s absolutely delivered—from the Aperol Spritz tree to the free-flowing pints of Guinness, it was a highlight for many of our guests.”
Entertainment was another standout of the day. Realta Irish Dancers performed a mesmerising show that kept the energy high after dinner, and the lively band, All Folked Up, ensured the dancefloor was never empty.
“Choosing them was one of the best decisions we made,” Cliona said. “They had everyone on their feet!”
For Cliona and Marc, the ceremony was particularly meaningful as they exchanged vows in St. Mary’s Immaculate Church in Stranorlar.
“We were married by Fr. Kieran McAteer, who taught me Religion Studies in secondary school,” Cliona explained.
The newlyweds beaming with joy after their beautiful wedding ceremony officiated by Fr. Kieran McAteer at St. Mary’s Immaculate Church, Stranorlar.
“It felt so special to have someone who knew me growing up be part of such an important moment in our lives.”
With perfect weather, flawless service, and magical moments shared with their loved ones, Cliona and Marc’s wedding day was everything they had hoped for.
“Everyone says something will always go wrong on the day,” Cliona said, “but I can honestly say it was the most brilliant day and night, and the team at Jackson’s made sure that nothing did!”
Special thanks to Paul Doherty Photography & Video for capturing every moment of the day.
Venue: Jacksons Hotel
Photography & Video: Paul Doherty
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