Limerick Couple Celebrates Musical Wedding with Friends

Claire Heffernan and Brendan Long, a couple from Limerick and Waterford, celebrated their wedding in a ceremony infused with music and friendship. The couple, who first met in a choir in Cork, envisioned their big day as a reunion concert featuring singers and musicians from various stages of their lives. The ceremony took place at St John’s Cathedral in Limerick, presided over by Fr Niall Mackey, Claire’s grand-uncle, alongside Fr Sean Harmon.

Brendan expressed his enthusiasm for the day, stating, “There were no nerves, and marrying Claire felt like the most natural thing in the world.” Claire echoed this sentiment, sharing that their goal was to create a ceremony that felt like a “reunion concert” filled with talented friends. This included members from choirs they had both participated in, as well as musicians Brendan knew from his time in the army band.

The couple’s ceremony featured a choir and orchestra performance of “The Ground” by Ola Gjeilo, conducted by their friend Daniel. “Our biggest memory is sitting in the church, surrounded by 50 of our friends making music for us — it felt like magic,” Claire remarked. To add a personal touch, they included “programme notes” in their mass booklets, detailing the significance of each song chosen for the occasion.

Claire, a singer and musician primarily in the wedding industry, and Brendan, who works in the tech sector, first crossed paths in 2012 when Claire joined the choir Voci Nuove. Their friendship blossomed into romance in May 2014, culminating in a proposal during a trip to Magic Kingdom in Orlando, Florida, in August 2023.

The couple chose to hold their reception at Ashley Park House in Nenagh, Co Tipperary. Claire appreciated the venue’s relaxed atmosphere, noting that it allowed for a late-night sing-along around the piano. The band, The Trips, and their DJ entertained guests, culminating in a memorable acoustic rendition of “Can’t Help Falling In Love” that brought guests together in song.

Their wedding cake, crafted by Cakes by Deborah, was both visually stunning and delicious. The bridal party included Claire’s friends Louise and Sharon, while Brendan’s brother Stephen served as best man, accompanied by groomsman Paul. A special moment was provided by the couple’s six-year-old nephew, Sho, who traveled from Tokyo to serve as the pageboy and ring bearer. Additionally, Brendan’s niece and goddaughter, Clodagh, served as the flower girl.

Claire selected her wedding dress from Eva Lendel at Lilac Rose Bridal, complemented by a bespoke cape designed by Orlaith Carroll of The Attic. For the evening reception, she changed into a second dress from the Dominiss label. The men’s suits were sourced from Red Church in Cork City. Hair and makeup were expertly handled by Claire’s cousin-in-law and Sarah Dineen, respectively. For photography, they chose Black Diamond Photography, while videography was managed by Wedding Stories by Maurice. The floral arrangements were created by Moss and Mushroom.

Claire shared her advice for other couples planning their weddings: “Hold hands, smile, look around, and soak it in.” Following their wedding festivities, the newlyweds enjoyed a honeymoon in Bali and Singapore, marking the beginning of their new life together.