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A Fairytale Unveiled: Love, Laughter, and Lismore's Charm

The Genesis of a Bespoke Bridal Gown: From Runway to Reverence

Acclaimed fashion designer Dilara Findikoglu meticulously crafted Harley Weir's wedding dress just one day before the photographer journeyed to Ireland for her nuptials with John Kelleher at the majestic Lismore Castle. Drawing inspiration from the 26th ensemble of Findikoglu's fall 2023 collection, Weir embarked on a treasure hunt across Etsy, seeking delicate embellishments to elevate the already exquisite corsetry. Findikoglu, actively involved in the creation, encouraged the bride's pursuit of unique vintage elements, even as she was immersed in her own spring 2026 collection preparations. This collaborative effort ensured the gown was not merely a dress but a personal work of art.

Adorned in Dreams: The Pre-Raphaelite Princess and Her Ensemble

Weir, who previously graced Findikoglu's fall 2025 show, expressed profound joy in her wedding attire, describing herself as feeling like royalty. The couture-inspired dress, embellished with ribbons and a veil that evoked a fusion of Pre-Raphaelite artistry and Princess Leia's iconic style, was another brainchild of Findikoglu. Weir cherished the sight of soft mud gracing the gown's delicate hem during a post-ceremony garden stroll, paired with vintage Manolos she personally lightened. Her fondness for attire with a narrative resonated deeply with every aspect of her bridal look, transforming each element into a cherished memory.

A Symphony of Style: Bridal Party, Feast, and Found Treasures

The bridal party, elegantly attired in pink Simone Rocha designs, assisted Weir in transitioning from her corseted gown into a distinct crochet creation by Jaimee Callon McKenna for the wedding banquet. Weir's personal touch extended to providing McKenna with ancient Scottish stone circle patterns, enriching the bohemian aesthetic. Her ensemble was further enhanced by a chain crochet necklace from Arielle de Pinto, custom-carved wooden footwear by McKenna's partner, lustrous Paspaley pearl earrings, and a vintage YSL handbag, discovered during a fortuitous Vestiaire search. Each accessory underscored her penchant for distinctive, storied pieces.

The Unforgettable Finale: A Corset, a Ceilidh, and a Castle Dance

From Bordeaux, where she was enjoying her honeymoon, Weir playfully regretted not capturing more images of her third bridal outfit—another artfully deconstructed Findikoglu design, tightly cinched, which crowned her bridal wardrobe. Initially ambivalent about marriage, Weir had a dedicated phone folder for wedding inspiration, featuring only the iconic fall 2023, look 26, by Findikoglu. The notion that such elaborate attire might not withstand a lively dance floor was dispelled as Weir opted for a vibrant ceilidh, a traditional Scottish or Irish social gathering with folk music and dancing, instead of a conventional first dance. She fondly recalled the forty guests enthusiastically participating in the enchanting castle setting, proving that even the most delicate couture could endure spirited celebration.

Whirlwind Romance and Whimsical Traditions: The Path to \"I Do\"

The romantic ambiance perfectly suited the couple, who first met at a house party nine months prior and became engaged in May amidst a heatwave in Botany Bay. Kelleher's subsequent formal proposal in the Brockwell Park walled gardens, featuring a ring adorned with a 'jardin' of emeralds, added another layer of charm. Weir's heartfelt speech recounted a Valentine's Day moment where they unknowingly gifted each other matchboxes containing tiny hearts, solidifying their connection. In line with their rapid courtship, Weir's bachelorette celebration the night before the wedding involved karaoke and spirited drinks in Lismore, while Kelleher enjoyed a fishing excursion with his companions.

Beyond Convention: A \"Traditional\" Wedding with a Unique Flair

Weir playfully described her wedding as "pretty traditional," despite personally doing her natural makeup, enhanced by a long-lasting lipstick, a TikTok-inspired choice to avoid smudging during tender moments. However, the photographs captured by Alexander Ingham Brooke reveal a celebration far from ordinary: vows exchanged with rings fashioned from melted heirloom jewelry, a send-off from the church by Kelleher's opera-singing sister, and folk dancing in Findikoglu's ethereal designs. Weir expressed immense pride and honor in wearing her contemporary fashion icon's creation, likening it to a "fairytale" brought to life on her wedding day.