Wedding Help NI Podcast

In this episode of the Wedding Help NI Podcast, hosts Dale and Jenna visit the iconic Stormont Hotel in Belfast to chat with Philip, Front Desk Manager, and Jennifer, Events Manager, about what makes weddings at this landmark venue so special.With a rich history dating back to 1966 and set at the entrance to the Stormont Estate, the Stormont Hotel blends classic elegance with modern convenience — and Philip and Jennifer take us behind the scenes of how wedding days are carefully planned and flawlessly delivered. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

In this episode of the Wedding Help NI Podcast, hosts Dale and Jenna head to the beautiful Drenagh Estate in Limavady to chat with James Aiken, the photographer behind James Aiken Photography, about what really goes into capturing a wedding day from start to finish.James shares his journey into photography, which began in 2014 when he picked up a camera to document family life — before quickly discovering a passion for weddings. From early workshops to his first solo weddings, he explains how his confidence, style and approach evolved as the wedding industry itself changed.Known for his documentary-led storytelling style, James talks about blending candid moments with editorial, romantic and traditional portraits to tell the full story of a wedding day — from morning prep right through to the dancefloor, when couples and guests truly relax. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

In this episode of the Wedding Help NI Podcast, hosts Dale and Jenna head to the stunning Drenagh Estate in Limavady to sit down with Victoria and Gareth, two of the key people couples come to know (and trust) most on their wedding day.More than just a venue, Drenagh Estate is an experience — and this episode pulls back the curtain on what actually goes into delivering seamless, stress-free estate weddings from start to finish.Victoria and Gareth share their journeys from very different beginnings — from gardening and bartending — into becoming trusted wedding leads and ambassadors for one of Northern Ireland’s most sought-after wedding venues. Together, they explain how consistency, familiarity and teamwork play a huge role in why couples feel so at ease at Drenagh. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Dale is joined by Leanne and Morgan from Baby Blocks Bridal— wedding nanny service that’s completely changing how families experience wedding days.With over 20 years of childcare experience, Leanne shares how Baby Blocks Bridal began when families she used to childmind asked for help on their wedding days—when children were part of the bridal party but still needed care. What started as a one-to-one bridal nanny service has now grown into a full professional team. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

n this episode of the Wedding Help NI Podcast, hosts Dale and Jenna sit down at the beautiful Beech Hill Country House with the incredible Carina, the founder of TeamBride.ie — one of Ireland’s most sought-after wedding morning experts.Carina shares how her journey began in 2008 working in bridal fashion, where brides constantly wished she could be with them on the morning of their wedding. That one repeated sentence sparked what would become Team Bride — a service that has since evolved far beyond bridal dressing. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

This week, Dale Thomas from Wedding Help is joined by co-host Jenna from Jenna Moments and special guest Kirsty, founder of Dreamy June Weddings — a Northern Ireland wedding content creator transforming how couples remember their day.Kirsty shares how her own wedding in 2023 inspired her to launch Dreamy June Weddings, taking inspiration from the booming content-creation trend in the US, Australia, and mainland UK. With a background in video, small-business content, charity projects, and film studies, she brings a thoughtful storytelling approach to capturing weddings—one that focuses on real moments, not staged perfection. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

In this episode, Dale Thomas from Wedding Help and co-host Jenna from Jenna Moments sit down with the incredibly talented Niamh McLaughlin, the creative mind behind Niamh McLaughlin Media.From stepping away from the corporate world to building a sought-after media brand, Niamh shares how she transformed her background in TV and broadcast production into a thriving wedding business. Known for her warm, candid style, she captures the heart of a wedding day through timeless imagery, cinematic films, and social-ready content couples adore. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Dale Thomas and Jenna sit down with the talented Natalie Press, better known as The Wedding Portrait Artist NI, to chat about her unique role capturing wedding memories through live guest portraits.Natalie shares how she transformed her lifelong passion for art into a thriving wedding business — creating beautiful hand-drawn keepsakes for guests while adding an unforgettable experience to the wedding day. Filmed in the picturesque Larchfield Estate, this episode dives into her journey, her creative process, and what couples love most about this one-of-a-kind wedding entertainment. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

In this special episode, host Dale Thomas welcomes the brilliant Allie Ford — known to many across Northern Ireland as Dympna from the iconic BBC comedy Give My Head Peace — to chat all about her exciting journey from TV screens to wedding ceremonies!Now a professional wedding celebrant, Allie shares how she discovered her passion for storytelling through love stories, her experience performing nearly 100 ceremonies, and how her background in acting helps her craft meaningful, personal, and joyful wedding days. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Dale Thomas sits down with DJ Ryan A — one of Northern Ireland’s most popular wedding DJs — and his new wife Melissa, as they share all the details of their own wedding day.From their intimate ceremony at Belfast City Hall to their stunning reception at Ten Square Hotel, Ryan and Melissa take us behind the scenes of how they planned their big day, the amazing vendors who made it special, and what they learned along the way. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

In this episode, host Dale Thomas sits down with Donna and Gina, the creative minds behind Wisteria Bridal — Northern Ireland’s unique boutique specialising in off-the-rack and pre-owned designer wedding dresses.With years of experience as skilled bridal seamstresses, Donna and Gina share how Wisteria Bridal was born from a passion for helping brides find their dream dress — sustainably, affordably, and with the full bridal boutique experience. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

In this inspiring episode, host Dale Thomas sits down with Melissa Wright, award-winning photographer and President of the Professional Photographers Association of Northern Ireland. Recorded at the charming Basil Sheils in Armagh, Melissa shares her journey from estate agent to full-time wedding photographer, her natural and vibrant photography style, and why connection with couples is at the heart of her work.Melissa opens up about: 📸 How she built her business from scratch after a career change 💍 The importance of knowing and trusting your photographer 🌿 Trends and timeless tips in wedding photography 🕊️ Why real emotion, laughter, and color matter more than perfection 💡 Her best advice for couples planning their big dayWhether you’re newly engaged or deep into planning, this episode is packed with practical advice and heartwarming insights from one of Northern Ireland’s most respected wedding photographers. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

In this episode, host Dale Thomas visits the stunning Larchfield Estate, one of Northern Ireland’s most sought-after wedding venues. Joined by Megan and Cathy, the passionate team behind Larchfield, we explore what makes this historic estate such a magical setting for couples.From its rich history and rustic charm to its exclusive spaces, seasonal beauty, and hidden photo spots, Larchfield offers endless possibilities for creating a truly one-of-a-kind celebration. Megan and Cathy share insights on what couples love most about the venue, how their small but dedicated team ensures every wedding feels unique, and practical advice for newly engaged couples starting their venue search.Whether you’re dreaming of an intimate gathering or a grand celebration, this episode shines a light on why Larchfield Estate continues to capture hearts as one of Northern Ireland’s premier wedding venues.🎙️ Tune in to discover how to make your big day personal, timeless, and unforgettable. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

In this episode, Dale Thomas chats with Karen from Essence Photography, who shares her inspiring journey from a career in transport and logistics to becoming a full-time wedding photographer. What started as a passion during family moments has grown into a thriving business capturing some of life’s most meaningful celebrations.They discuss:How Karen turned her love of photography into a wedding career.The balance between candid documentary shots and timeless portraits.Why photographers often become the “timekeepers” of a wedding day.The importance of family portraits and making every guest feel included.Emerging photography trends like reception “table dashes.”Top tips for couples when choosing their photographer and booking suppliers.Karen’s passion for people, storytelling, and timeless imagery shines through in her work. If you’re planning your wedding and want to know what really makes a great wedding photographer, this episode is packed with advice, inspiration, and insider knowledge. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

In this heartwarming episode, Dale Thomas is joined by the wonderful Mandie Ritchie, better known as Married by Mandie. A former banker turned Humanist wedding celebrant, Mandie shares how she swapped balancing books for crafting deeply personal ceremonies that celebrate love, individuality, and connection.They explore:Mandie’s journey from a 40-year banking career to becoming a celebrant.The power of storytelling in creating bespoke wedding ceremonies.Common myths about humanist weddings (and why they are completely legal in Northern Ireland).Unique traditions couples can include, from handfasting and heirloom rings to a Scottish “Quaich ceremony.”Practical advice for couples planning a humanist wedding, including tips for vows, venue flexibility, and managing the legal side. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

In this episode, Dale Thomas sits down with the one and only Michael O’Neill, the driving force behind Michael O’Neill Wedding DJ & Wedding Services. Michael shares his inspiring journey from his first DJ set in Armagh at just 17, to building one of Northern Ireland’s most sought-after wedding entertainment and décor companies. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Welcome back to the Wedding Help NI Podcast with your host Dale Thomas! In this episode, Dale is joined by Andy from Webber Discos, one of Northern Ireland’s most trusted and experienced wedding DJs.With over 30 years in the industry, Andy shares his journey from his very first gig to becoming a full-time professional wedding DJ. He reveals what makes a great night’s entertainment, how he works with couples to build the perfect playlist, and why creating a balance for all guests—from grandparents to the bride and groom—is key to an unforgettable evening.We dive into:🎶 The evolution of wedding playlists & why flexibility beats rigid lists🕺 How to keep the dance floor full for all ages💡 Entertainment add-ons like games & inflatables that boost guest engagement✨ Trends for 2025 in wedding music & DJ sets📅 Why booking a professional DJ early is essential (and the risks of last-minute bookings)🙌 The importance of working with trusted wedding suppliersIf you’re planning your wedding entertainment, this episode is packed with advice, funny stories, and insider tips from one of the best in the business. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Welcome back to the Wedding Help NI Podcast with your host Dale Thomas! In Episode 33, we’re joined by Barry from The Merry Mare Mobile Bars, a unique and stylish mobile bar company.From rustic horse-box bars to cocktail takeovers and prosecco walls, Barry shares the story behind The Merry Mare, how it’s become one of the most talked-about mobile bar services in Northern Ireland, and why couples are loving the bespoke drinks experience it brings to their big day.We cover everything from:✨ How The Merry Mare began (and how a wedding project turned into a business)🍸 Custom cocktail menus & guest favourites🥂 Prosecco walls and creative bar setups for weddings🏡 Options for marquee weddings, private parties & licensed venues💡 Expert tips for couples when choosing their bar supplierIf you’re planning your wedding and want something unique, memorable, and Instagram-worthy for your drinks reception, this episode is packed with ideas and inspiration!🔗 Find out more: https://themerrymaremobilebars.com📱 Follow The Merry Mare on socials: @themerrymaremobilebars🌐 Discover more wedding suppliers: weddinghelpni.com Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

In this episode of the Wedding Help NI Podcast, Dale chats with Chloe from True North Socials, a wedding content creator helping couples capture their big day in a modern, authentic, and shareable way.Chloe shares her inspiring journey from starting during lockdown to building a thriving business supporting brides, grooms, and wedding suppliers across Northern Ireland. We dive into:How wedding content creation is different from traditional videography 🎥Why couples love having instant highlights and clips from their wedding 💍Packages, turnaround times, and what to expect when booking a content creator 📱The power of social media and building community with Wedding Help NIIf you’re a couple planning your wedding, or a supplier curious about social media and content creation, this episode is packed with insights and inspiration!👉 Follow Chloe at True North Socials on Instagram, TikTok & Facebook.👉 Connect with Wedding Help NI for more wedding tips, advice & supplier stories.Don’t forget to like, subscribe, and hit the bell 🔔 so you never miss an episode! Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

We bring you Lindy aka Bubzbeauty who kindly shares all about her magical wedding at the stunning Culloden Estate & Spa. 🏰💫🎧 Expect:💡 Her top wedding tips🤝 What it was like planning her dream wedding❤️ Honest advice every bride-to-be needs to hearIf you love @itsbubz, or you’re planning your own big day, this is an episode you can’t miss!If you grew up watching her on YouTube, you’ll know she’s inspired millions worldwide with her honesty, warmth, and creativity. 🌸 But tomorrow, she’s stepping into a whole new spotlight… her very own wedding day! 💍 Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.