Andrew and Lindsay embarked on an extraordinary journey of love, culminating in a breathtaking destination wedding at Powerscourt House Estate & Gardens in Enniskerry, Ireland. Their magical day in May of 2022 was a testament to their shared love for Europe, their commitment to crafting a unique experience for their guests, and the power of romance that transcends borders. Here’s a glimpse into their love story and the enchanting details of their destination wedding.

A Serendipitous Meeting

“We simply met the old-fashioned way— a blind date through a beloved mutual friend (who was, of course, one of my bridesmaids!),” Lindsay reminisces. Their connection was instant, and by their fifth year together, Lindsay had a feeling that a proposal was on the horizon. Little did she know just how special it would be.

Choosing a Destination Wedding in Ireland

Andrew and Lindsay’s choice of a destination wedding was driven by their deep love for Europe. They wanted their guests, who had traveled over 5,000 miles to join them, to feel like they were on vacation—relaxed and ready for a good time.

“So many people asked us why we chose Ireland as our wedding location!” Lindsay says. “It all came down to wanting a unique experience in a foreign country. Plus, it was the perfect halfway point for our families, with Andrew’s family coming from Russia and mine from California.”

Their only hiccup was figuring out how to transport Lindsay’s two wedding dresses and Andrew’s suit back home, as they planned to extend their European honeymoon. Thankfully, a kind bridesmaid saved the day by taking their extra luggage on her flight home.

The Perfect Venue – Powerscourt House Estate & Gardens

The couple chose Powerscourt House for its picturesque landscape, 17th-century charm, and an incredible ballroom. The venue’s proximity to Dublin Airport made it a convenient choice for international guests.

Whimsical Decor and Personal Touches

Lindsay and Andrew created a romantic, whimsical ambiance with deep red hues and airy fabrics. They embraced DIY projects, including personalized goodie bags for guests, featuring an itinerary of the week, custom shot glasses, Guinness, and Irish snacks. Their drinks reception featured a custom cocktail named after their beloved dog, Winston.

A Ceremony Filled with Meaning

Their ceremony was a beautiful blend of American traditions, with bridesmaids and groomsmen standing by their sides. Lindsay’s 20-year-old brother-in-law played the role of flower boy and ring bearer, stealing the show.

Their officiant, a dear friend, brought a personal touch to the ceremony, crafting heartfelt words that resonated deeply with the couple. Lindsay also honored her family tradition by wearing her mother’s wedding dress, which had been passed down through generations.

Planning from Afar with Expert Guidance

Although Lindsay didn’t hire a wedding planner, Powerscourt House provided a helpful liaison who answered all her questions and offered a list of recommended vendors. With an 8-hour time difference, email and early morning Zoom calls became essential.

The couple’s first visit to Ireland was a whirlwind tour to scout venues. After a tiring four-day trip, they returned home empty-handed. Their relentless search online eventually led them to Powerscourt Estate House and Gardens through Instagram.

The Difference of Destination

Lindsay believes that hosting their wedding in Ireland not only made it more magical but also more budget-friendly compared to California. While the planning was challenging, the result was an elegant 17th-century historical estate set amidst the enchanting Powerscourt Gardens, a backdrop that would have been hard to replicate elsewhere.

Words of Wisdom for Future Couples

In closing, Andrew and Lindsay offer some sage advice for couples planning their special day. “Soak in every single moment of the day; it goes by incredibly fast,” Lindsay advises. “Make time for just the two of you after the wedding. Hire a solid DJ, and if they offer a live saxophonist, don’t think twice. And, don’t forget to eat your wedding cake!”

Andrew and Lindsay’s destination wedding in Ireland was a testament to love transcending borders and the power of a dream brought to life. Their story is a beautiful reminder that no matter where you choose to celebrate your love, it’s the moments and memories that truly matter.

Vendors: Photographer: Wonder & Magic; Venue: Powerscourt House Estate & Gardens; Florist: Frog Prince Wedding & Events; Stationery: Calligraphy by Laura; Cake: Croft Cake Designs; Hair & Makeup: Irma Butkiene; Gown: Justin Alexander; Men’s Attire: Men’s Wearhouse; Bridesmaids Dresses: Club L London; Music: D-Strings; Videographer: Vow Art