By Tara McCormack
All weddings are special, but Mary McGlinchey from Glenfin, Co Donegal and Sligo native Cathal Surlis’s big day was truly out of this world – quite literally.
Set against the stunning backdrop of Drumhalla House, their sun-kissed May wedding was filled with unforgettable moments, laughter, and love.
But it was when the northern lights made an appearance that their dream day turned into a fairy tale.
Their journey together began in the streets of Galway, where Mary and Cathal met through a mutual friend during their college days.
Though their paths briefly parted, fate had other plans, and they reconnected after Mary finished her studies.
From then on, it was clear that their love was written in the stars, culminating in a day they would never forget.
Nestled in the heart of Rathmullan, Drumhalla House became the perfect setting for their extraordinary celebration.
With its sweeping views of Lough Swilly and lush grounds, the venue offered a dreamlike atmosphere. But what truly made it exceptional were the people behind the scenes.
“I truly don’t have the words to explain how incredible Drumhalla House is, but it’s definitely down to the amazing Siobhan and Damian that runs the show there. They are nothing short of incredible, nothing was a hassle for them” Mary shared.
“The bride and groom being happy is at the heart of everything they stand for, when I say planning our wedding with Siobhan was stress free, it couldn’t have been any better. I want to do it all over again!”
As if to bless their union, the sun shone brightly, with temperatures soaring to 24 degrees which was an unexpected treat that had guests raving about the ‘destination wedding’ feel.
Mary and Cathal rock their wedding shades, soaking up the sunshine in style after saying ‘I do.’
Mary shared her guests sentiments adding: “I fully agree with them. The venue, the support, the views. It was just a complete dream.”
The couple chose Glenfin Church for their ceremony, surrounded by family and friends who travelled from near and far to witness their love. Mary’s walk down the aisle was a moment she’ll never forget.
“After I got into my dress that morning I took 5 minutes by myself to take it all in, that is such a lovely memory to have,” she said.
“Walking down the aisle my heart couldn’t have been happier, I couldn’t stop smiling and singing as my parents walked me down the aisle while seeing all our friends and family gather to celebrate us.”
Mary looks breathtaking in her gown and veil, with her vibrant bouquet adding a perfect pop of colour
Adding a personal touch, Mary’s cousin serenaded her down the aisle, making an already emotional moment even more special.
From the joy of their vows to the laughter shared over dinner, the entire day was filled with love and happiness.
But one moment stood above the rest. As dusk settled over Kinagar Beach, the northern lights danced across the sky, casting a mystical glow over their celebration.
“The northern lights made an appearance on the night of our wedding, you couldn’t write it! 24 degrees, the northern lights looking over Kinagar beach on your wedding day. As if we hadn’t already hit the jackpot we surely had by then!”
Their wedding day was beautifully captured by photographer Jay Doherty, who brought an infectious energy to the occasion.
“If you want a day full of craic and energy but topped off with some incredible pictures, hit him up! I cannot recommend him enough,” Mary said.
Videographer Cathal Doherty was equally praised. “He was amazing, i hardly noticed he was there. We got our videos back recently and wow, it was like reliving the entire day again”
From the warm May sun to the shimmering northern lights, Mary and Cathal’s wedding was truly a day to remember.
Looking back, Mary said: “We have so many amazing and special moments and memories from the entire day. We were so blessed to have all of our family around us on the most special day of our lives.”
Photography: Jay Doherty
Videography: Cathal Doherty Videography
Hair & Makeup: Meghan Laird, Cheryl Scanlon @ The Style Studio
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