Limerick hurling star's wedding day to Offaly woman packed with 'wow' moments
Wedding photographer Christina Brosnan shared the first images of the newlyweds on Gemma’s Instagram page this Saturday
A STUNNING bride, a vintage sports car and a host of Limerick hurling stars - William O’Donoghue’s big day had it all.
Artist Gemma Cowen, from Offaly, and Na Piarsaigh and Limerick hurler William tied the knot in a spectacular wedding celebration in Cashel.
Gemma is daughter of MEP Barry Cowen and his wife Mary and a niece of former Taoiseach, Brian Cowen.
Wedding photographer Christina Brosnan shared the first images of the newlyweds on Gemma’s Instagram page this Saturday.
The bride wore a show-stopping strapless gown with a dramatic thigh-high slit.
Mixing modern and traditional elements, the gown boasted a romantic sweetheart neckline, fitted corset-style bodice and voluminous skirt.
William was suited and booted in a sleek tux for the black-tie occasion.
Gemma’s bridesmaids wore soft, peach-pink gowns.
Christina also shared a humorous glimpse into William’s wedding speech.
“‘I’m looking forward to seeing the documentary about Gemma.’ - Will,” she posted, before adding: “Possibly my favourite line in a groom’s speech ever.”
“Jokes aside, this day with Gemm and William was insane in all the right ways,” she continued.
“But this girl, in this dress, was the whole goddamn moment. And yes, we needed to take all the photos.
“Just a tease for now. Follow along for more to come.”
The couple exchanged vows at St John the Baptist Church in Cashel before departing the ceremony in a stunning green vintage MGA classic two-seater sports car.
Their wedding reception was held at the five-star Cashel Palace, where guests were treated to music from Riff Shop Music, famous for their high-energy drums and saxophone sets.
Among the guests were many of William’s Limerick and Na Piarsaigh teammates and their partners.
Guests tucked into a five-course meal, with the main course consisting of roast sirloin of beef with bourguignon garnish and red wine jus.
Gemma later changed into a sparkling short silver dress as she joined her husband on the dance floor to dance the night away.
Among the Limerick stars in attendance were Diarmaid Byrnes and his wife Elaine Kennedy, former Limerick captain Declan Hannon and wife Louise Cantillon, Aidan O’Connor and his girlfriend Fionnuala Costelloe, and Mike Casey and his girlfriend Lauren O’Hagan.
The newlyweds were carried shoulder-high on the dance floor, surrounded by their nearest and dearest, as they began married life on a high.