A Burst of Vivid Colour at Tankardstown House: Caitriona & Peter

26/05/2026

Caitriona and Peter first crossed paths during their inaugural year of medical school. What began as a friendly camaraderie quickly deepened when they discovered a shared connection that felt more than platonic. A memorable early moment occurred in a laboratory class where they had to determine their blood types; Caitriona, uneasy about needles, received a generous offer from Peter to donate a drop of his blood so she could avoid a prick. Their romance blossomed over the following summer, and after just over three years of dating they became engaged.

The proposal unfolded three days after their final fourth‑year examinations. Peter chose Dunfanaghy, a place the couple regarded as their happy retreat, and arranged a quiet walk and picnic on Tramore beach. With the shoreline empty save for the two of them, Peter asked Caitriona to marry her, and she responded with an enthusiastic “yes, yes, yes.” The couple later recalled feeling as though they were the only people in the world on that expansive beach, a moment they described as perfect.

On their summer wedding day, Caitriona and Peter celebrated at Tankardstown House, a historic country estate brimming with character. The reception was a vibrant affair highlighted by an heirloom tiara that Caitriona wore, a choreographed first dance that showcased their chemistry, and playful disco‑ball décor that added a touch of sparkle to the festivities. The day’s visual narrative was expertly captured by Dasha Caffrey Photography, which preserved the glowing bridal style and the lively atmosphere of the celebration.

Floral design played a starring role, beginning with the ceremony at St Malachy’s Parish Church where the couple exchanged vows amid lush pastel arrangements. Caitriona’s bouquet blended roses, dahlias, delphiniums, orchids and multi‑coloured gypsophila, while each bridesmaid received a bouquet featuring a single bloom taken from the bridal arrangement. The flower girl, Saoirse, wore a crown fashioned from colourful gypsophila and carried a basket strewn with fresh rose petals, and the boutonnières consisted of pale pink roses accented with varied gypsophila shades. Caitriona’s gown, a striking Sassi Holford creation, was complemented by a custom statement bow, a family‑heirloom tiara, and a House of Savin veil embroidered with the couple’s dates, star signs and initials. The ceremony was further personalised by a rendition of ‘Ave Maria’ performed by Caitriona’s sisters, and the heartfelt sermon, enriched by remarks from Fr Dominic McGrattan of the Queen’s Chaplaincy, reflected the pair’s personalities and made the occasion truly memorable.