What a beautiful and emotional day for the wedding of Zara Montgomery and Michael Gillespie on the 2nd December 2022. Zara is no stranger to performing at weddings being one of the North West’s most in-demand wedding singers and pianists. But this was her most touching performance and this singing bride really hit the high notes for groom Michael and family and friends on this wedding day!
Archdeacon David Huss led the beautiful wedding ceremony at Killymard Parish Church outside Donegal Town. Despite his usual role as the one leading the hymns he found himself demoted to a backing singer as the bride’s stunning voice took centre stage!
Zara prepared for her big day at the family home near the church, surrounded by her family and bridal party including maid of honour and sister Naomi Montgomery, bridesmaid Emer McMullin, bridesman Vincent McGready, and flowergirls Margaret and Grace Montgomery.
Meanwhile groom, Michael got ready for the wedding near Lough Eske with the support of his family and his trusted groomsmen, including best man Jordan Carty, groomsman Daniel Breslin, and groomsman Darren Milligan.
The wedding ceremony was personalised with heartfelt Bible readings by Warren Montgomery and Sarah McNulty, prayers by Ruth and Katie Gillespie, and a reflection by Hazel Gallagher. Zara’a sister Naomi Montgomery also added to the ceremony with a beautiful hymn, accompanied on the piano by their mother Joy Montgomery.
And before the couple signed the register, this singing bride Zara and Deane Conaghan treated the crowd to the touching duet performance of ‘The Prayer’. The audience, including a particularly moved groom Michael, gave the pair a round of applause for their amazing performance.
The wedding cars were a sleek silver Mercedes provided by Michael Gallagher, and the talented Paul McGinty of Ghorm Photography captured every special moment. Sinead McGee expertly styled the bridal party’s hair and makeup, while Shelly at Love Blooms created stunning floral arrangements. The bride’s dress and shoes were from Forever Bridal in Belfast, and she completed her look with elegant jewelry from the Four Masters Bookshop in Donegal Town.
After taking in some beautiful photo locations picked by Paul, the newlyweds and their guests headed to Harvey’s Point Country Hotel for a celebratory drinks reception. Groomsman Darren added a special touch by piping the couple into the wedding reception. The evening continued with heartfelt speeches and a delicious meal, followed by a lively performance by the Gorilla Radio Band.
Congratulations, Zara and Michael, on your beautiful wedding day! It was an honour to be chosen as your videographer, and I hope that the memories of this special occasion will be captured in the film for years to come. Wishing you both all the best in your marriage journey together.
