Congratulations on Your Engagement!
Getting engaged is a momentous occasion, and there’s something truly magical about a proposal during the festive season. Whether it happened under the twinkling lights of a Christmas tree or as the clock struck midnight on New Year’s Eve, this is an unforgettable time in your lives. I always love hearing stories from couples about their special moment—it’s such a joy to see how each engagement is unique and personal.
Now that you’ve shared the exciting news with friends and family, it’s time to start thinking about the next step: planning your perfect wedding.
Planning a wedding can feel overwhelming, but with the right guidance, it can also be one of the most exciting journeys you’ll ever embark on. From choosing a stunning venue in Kerry, Cork, or Limerick to finding the right vendors and, of course, designing your dream wedding cake (leave that part to me—I love working closely with couples to create something truly special!), this guide will help you every step of the way.
About Gabi Bakes Cakes
With over 10 years of experience in creating bespoke wedding cakes, I’ve worked with countless couples across Kerry, Cork, and Limerick to bring their cake dreams to life. As a local baker based in Killorglin, I not only design and bake beautiful cakes but also collaborate closely with trusted vendors in the region to help couples plan their ideal day. You can explore some of my past creations on my cake showcase, where you’ll find everything from classic designs to more whimsical and themed cakes.
A wedding cake should not only taste incredible but also reflect the couple’s style and theme. Whether you want elegant floral decorations, intricate lace patterns, or a modern minimalist look, I work closely with each couple to ensure the design complements their wedding perfectly. Cake toppers are another great way to personalise your cake—whether it’s a traditional bride and groom, a monogram, or something fun that represents you as a couple
Whether you’re looking for advice on venues, florists, or photographers, I’m here to guide you with insights gathered from years of experience in the Irish wedding industry.
My guide to planning your perfect wedding
1. Choosing the Perfect Venue
The venue is one of the most important decisions you’ll make, as it sets the scene for your big day. Whether you’re dreaming of a grand castle, a cosy country house, or a chic coastal retreat, the southwest of Ireland has something for everyone.
Here are some stunning wedding venues I highly recommend:
Cahernane House Hotel is a hidden gem on the edge of Killarney National Park. This beautifully restored manor house offers a mix of old-world charm and modern luxury. I’ve had the pleasure of delivering cakes here, and the serene surroundings combined with the hotel’s impeccable service make it a fantastic choice for couples seeking an elegant yet intimate wedding experience.
Sheen Falls Lodge offers luxury with breathtaking views of Kenmare Bay. I’ve had the pleasure of delivering cakes here many times, and every visit leaves me in awe of the stunning scenery and the warm, attentive staff. It’s the kind of place where you can truly relax and soak in the beauty of your special day. Whether you want an intimate gathering or a grand celebration, Sheen Falls has versatile options.
If you’ve always dreamed of a fairytale wedding, Ballyseede Castle is the perfect venue. Every time I deliver a cake here, I’m reminded of just how magical this place is. The staff are incredibly welcoming, and the grandeur of the castle creates a truly enchanting experience.
10 Bridge Street is a beautifully restored former church. It’s such a unique venue, and I always enjoy setting up cakes here. The blend of historic charm with modern design makes it a memorable choice for couples looking for something different. With its central location in Killorglin and bespoke catering, it’s ideal for couples seeking a modern yet charming venue.
Set on the shores of Kenmare Bay, Dromquinna Manor is a beautiful estate. I love delivering cakes to this venue—it’s tucked away in a scenic spot with breathtaking views of Kenmare Bay. The staff go above and beyond to make every wedding special.
Muckross Park Hotel & Spa offers a luxurious and serene setting, nestled in the heart of Killarney National Park. I’ve delivered cakes here for many elegant weddings, and the combination of beautiful interiors and breathtaking surroundings makes it a top choice for couples. Whether you’re planning an intimate ceremony or a grand celebration, Muckross Park provides the perfect blend of elegance and tranquillity.
For a full list of venues, visit my wedding venues page.
2. Setting Your Menu
Most venues will have their own in-house catering staff, but selecting the right menu is key to ensuring your guests enjoy the day as much as you do.
When planning your menu, consider the following:
- Dietary Options: Ensure the menu includes vegetarian, vegan, gluten-free, and allergen-friendly choices so all guests feel catered for.
- Kid-Friendly Choices: Think about offering a simplified or separate menu for children with familiar favourites.
- Seasonal Ingredients: Work with your venue’s chef to create a menu that incorporates fresh, local, and seasonal ingredients for a true taste of Ireland.
- Course Variety: Decide whether you want a formal multi-course meal, a buffet-style spread, or something more interactive like food stations.
Always discuss menu options during your venue visit and, if possible, arrange a tasting session to finalise your selections.
3. Hiring a DJ or Live Band
Music is a key part of your wedding day, from the walk down the aisle to the final dance. The right DJ or live band will create a memorable atmosphere and keep your guests on the dance floor all night.
Tips for choosing entertainment:
- Experience: Look for performers who specialise in weddings.
- Style: Make sure they can play a mix of genres to suit all ages.
- Recommendations: Ask your venue or planner for trusted names.
4. Selecting Your Florist
Flowers add beauty, colour, and personality to your wedding. Whether you want classic bouquets or whimsical wildflower arrangements, a talented florist can bring your vision to life.
Here are some brilliant local florists I recommend:
- Shades of Bloom, Killarney, Co. Kerry – Known for elegant, bespoke floral designs.
- Tie The Knot Weddings, Co. Kerry – Known for their attention to detail and creative floral concepts, perfect for adding a personal touch to your wedding day.
- Maura’s Cottage Flowers, Tralee, Co. Kerry – Specialises in seasonal, locally grown blooms with a rustic touch.
- Flowers from the Secret Garden, Cork – Ideal for couples seeking unique, artistic floral arrangements.
5. Capturing the Moment: Photographers & Videographers
A great photographer and videographer will capture the magic of your wedding day, ensuring you have beautiful memories to look back on.
Recommended Photographers:
Tips for choosing a photographer:
- Review their portfolio to ensure their style matches your vision.
- Ask about packages, including engagement shoots and full-day coverage.
- Book early, as the best photographers get booked up quickly!
6. Working with a Wedding Planner
A wedding planner can take the stress out of organising your big day. From coordinating vendors to managing the timeline, they ensure everything runs smoothly.
Recommended Wedding Planners:
7. Stationery and Invitations
Your wedding invitations set the tone for your special day. Whether you prefer classic, elegant designs or something more modern, the right stationery can make a lasting impression on your guests.
Stationery Needs:
- Save-the-date cards
- Invitations
- RSVP cards
- Place cards and table plans
- Thank-you cards
8. Transport
Organising transportation ensures that your wedding party and guests arrive on time and in style.
Ideas for wedding transport:
- Classic cars
- Vintage buses
- Horse-drawn carriages for a romantic touch
9. Keeping Kids Entertained
If you’re expecting children at your wedding, planning some thoughtful activities for them can go a long way in keeping both the kids and their parents happy. Creating a dedicated kids’ area with engaging activities will ensure they’re entertained throughout the day.
Ideas for keeping kids entertained:
- Colouring Pads & Crayons – Simple but effective.
- Activity Packs – Include small puzzles, stickers, and games.
- Kids’ Zone – Set up a cosy area with cushions, a canvas tent, fairy lights, and soft toys.
- Interactive Entertainment – Consider hiring a balloon artist or face painter.
10. Additional Checklist Items
To help ensure your wedding day runs smoothly, here are a few extra items to include in your planning timeline:
- Choose ceremony songs – Work with your officiant and musicians to select songs for key moments.
- Plan transportation for guests – If your venue is remote, consider shuttle services.
- Prepare a backup plan for outdoor ceremonies – Ireland’s weather can be unpredictable, so always have an indoor option.
11. And Finally... The Cake!
Your wedding cake is more than just dessert—it’s a centrepiece and a reflection of your style as a couple. With over a decade of experience, I specialise in crafting bespoke cakes tailored to your preferences.
Flavours:
Check out my full list of wedding cake flavours or visit my wedding cake showcase to get inspired by previous designs. for inspiration. Popular choices include:
- Vanilla Bean with raspberry conserve and Madagascan vanilla buttercream
- Lemon Drizzle with elderflower syrup and zesty lemon buttercream
- Rich Chocolate Biscuit with Belgian chocolate ganache
- Carrot & Walnut with a hint of orange and cream cheese frosting
- Red Velvet with white chocolate buttercream
Sweet Favours:
In addition to wedding cakes, I also offer personalised cupcakes, mini cookies, and macaron gift boxes as take-home treats for your guests.
A glimpse of some cakes i've made for my clients
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
When is the best time to get married in Ireland?
How far in advance should we book our venue?
It’s recommended to book your venue at least 12 to 18 months in advance, especially if you’re planning a summer wedding. Popular venues tend to get booked quickly.
What legal requirements do we need to fulfil to get married in Ireland?
Couples need to give a minimum of three months’ notice to the Registrar’s Office. Required documents include passports, birth certificates, and a Marriage Registration Form (MRF).
How can we incorporate Irish traditions into our wedding?
Consider adding elements such as a handfasting ceremony, traditional Irish music, or serving classic Irish dishes and drinks.
How do we plan for unpredictable weather?
Always have a backup plan for outdoor events. Many venues offer indoor alternatives, and providing umbrellas or blankets for guests can help ensure comfort.
What are some unique favour ideas for guests?
Personalised cupcakes, mini cookies, and macaron gift boxes are popular choices. You can customise them to match your wedding theme.
How do we accommodate dietary restrictions?
Work with your caterer to offer a variety of options, including vegetarian, vegan, gluten-free, and allergen-friendly dishes.
What are the top wedding photo locations in Kerry?
Top spots include the Gap of Dunloe, Killarney National Park, Ross Castle, and Inch Beach. These locations offer stunning backdrops for memorable wedding photos.
