Gemma and Christian who live in Ireland, decided to elope in New York with only three of their closest friends. The couple met at the King's Inns ten years ago where they were training to be barristers. They decided not to take part in most wedding traditions by forgoing a traditional reception, bridal party or cake, but wanted to have a church wedding after the legal wedding at City Hall.
The well-traveled couple were certain about where they wanted to elope to. "New York was an easy decision for us. It was the scene of our first holiday and we love the buzz of the city. It was pretty special to be returning to get married. Who would have thought it on that first trip!"
Gemma wore a stunning sequin dress to start their celebrations the evening before their wedding day. The couple ate at Vinegar Hill House in Brooklyn. after getting their marriage licence at the City Hall, which Gemma called 'a real experience' and the next day they attended the Church of St Francis Xavier in Greenwich Village to be married. "We loved the Church of St Francis Xavier as soon as we saw it. It is one of the most beautiful churches in New York."
Gemma is decisive and found picking her dress very easy. She chose her dress due to it's classic and vintage-inspired style. "I love Jenny Packham as she creates such elegant dresses. My sisters also wore her and my sister Pia kindly lent me her veil. It was the first and only dress I tried on...love at first sight!' Gemma also wore diamond earrings which were a present from Christian years ago and an antique aquamarine ring as her "something blue".
Gemma came across her makeup artist Eduardo Martinez, who was working for NY Fashion Week via Instagram. "In some ways it was brave to be meeting on the wedding day, having never had a trial - but it could not have worked out better! Eduardo and I had exchanged emails and photo inspiration. He was a dream on the day and has amazing energy. He has a really relaxing presence and we had great fun and lots of champagne! I loved my make-up. It was perfect!"
Gemma also found Adore Florist on Instagram. They had supplied beautiful flowers for a number of events in the city. "Their flowers are chic yet understated which was exactly what I wanted."
The ceremony was the most special part of the couple's day. "Father Bob made the ceremony very personal and intimate. After the ceremony we took to the streets of New York for some photos. The enthusiasm, well wishes and positivity from passersby was infectious! A magical time."
Their photographer Story of Eve, who flew in from Ireland, captured all the moments of their day. "As we were having an intimate ceremony, the photos and video were a high priority. We wanted someone we could trust completely and we couldn't have asked for a more professional yet personal approach."
After the ceremony, the couple and their three close friends had dinner at Babbo and continued to celebrate into the night at 60 Thompson.
Photographer/Videographer : Story of Eve
HMUA : Eduardo Martinez
Ceremony Reception : Church of St Francis , Greenwich Village, Manhattan, New York
Reception Locations : Bar Fortuna, Greenwich Village (Pre drinks), Babbo (Dinner), 60 Thompson.
Flowers : Adore Florist NYC
Bride's Gown : Jenny Packham
Wedding Rings : Colin Weldon Jewellers
Bride's shoes : Jimmy Choo
Earrings : Weir & Son Jewellers
Additional Jewellery : Aquamarine ring from Powerscourt Antiques