Dublin to Sydney to Kilkenny: Hannah & Ross

The Perfect Day at Mount Juliet

On the 1st of June 2024, beneath glorious sunshine in the stunning surrounds of Mount Juliet, Co. Kilkenny, Hannah and Ross celebrated their wedding day. Joined by the warmth and joy of family and friends, their outdoor ceremony was a reflection of not just their love for each other, but of the laughter, support, and adventure that has defined their journey together. The atmosphere was filled with beautiful melodies from Fiach Moriarty, capturing every emotion of the day, while the incredible talents of Olga Hogan Photography and Eye Capture Videos ensured that every precious moment would be lovingly preserved. The setting was made even more magical thanks to the breathtaking floral arrangements by Shop The Garden.

From Deloitte Desks to First Kisses

Their story began in 2015 within the bustling halls of Deloitte. Ross, having started in September, was determined to focus on his career, steering clear of any office romance. Little did he know that fate had other plans. That December, as festive spirit swept through the office, Hannah arrived—a recent graduate ready for new adventures. At a Christmas party, she couldn't help but notice Ross: confident, charming, and dressed in a bright red Santa suit, his signature Southside style on full display. Despite his best intentions, Ross's "no romance" rule faltered. The spark between them was instant, and as luck would have it, their first kiss happened that very night outside Zaytoon’s on Leeson Street.

Adventures, Laughter, and Growing Closer

As the months rolled on, more graduates joined Deloitte, and with them came plenty of social nights. These gatherings gave Ross and Hannah the perfect opportunity to get to know one another. Eventually, Ross plucked up the courage to ask Hannah out. Ever the gentleman, he swept her off her feet, guiding her across the cobblestones to the Meeting House in Temple Bar for a dinner filled with laughter. They continued the night at the Auld Dubliner, enjoying live music until the small hours—a night that just might have earned Ross a well-deserved sick day.

Their romance blossomed through comedy club visits, golf outings, strolls in Malahide Castle and Dun Laoghaire, cinema trips, and shared enthusiasm for rugby. Their shared love of adventure soon saw them travelling not just between their homes in Malahide and Blackrock, but much further afield: Singapore, Bali, Barcelona, Morocco, and Sri Lanka among their many destinations.

Families Meet and New Bonds Form

As their relationship deepened, it was time for that all-important step: meeting the parents. Hannah's family—Seamus, Angela, Ben, Leo, and of course Lenny the dog—welcomed Ross with open arms and a few jokes about crossing the great Northside–Southside divide. Likewise, Hannah was warmly embraced by Ross’s family—Peter, Denise, and Kim—always ready with a celebratory glass of bubbly or a G&T. Family dinners, and perhaps a competitive debate over the best stuffed pork steaks, became a cherished tradition for both the O’Neills and Connollys.

A Leap to Australia and Weathering the Storms

In 2019, Hannah and Ross took a huge step together, moving to Australia. It was a bold move, putting oceans between themselves and their families. The challenges of the pandemic soon followed, testing them in ways they’d never imagined. Yet, in lockdown in Melbourne, through tough jobs, endless games of Scrabble, movie marathons, and even epic 40,000-step days, their bond only grew stronger. They became each other's rock—proving that together, they could weather any storm.

The Proposal: A Picture-Perfect Moment

After years of adventures and memories, Ross began planning a very special question. In February 2022, at a picturesque coastal retreat outside Melbourne (famous for its beaches and wineries), Ross orchestrated a day that was seemingly ordinary but truly extraordinary. With every detail—lunches booked, wine tastings, a walk to a scenic lake—Ross masked his nerves, while Hannah remained blissfully unaware. When she noticed a photographer nearby, she thought nothing of it—until she turned to find Ross on one knee. In that magical moment, surrounded by beauty and love (and a few hidden photographers!), Ross asked Hannah to marry him. Her answer, of course, was an emphatic yes.

Forever Begins in Kilkenny

Hannah and Ross’s wedding day at Mount Juliet was the culmination of years of friendship, love, and adventure—a day made unforgettable by the people who have cheered them on along the way. As they embark on this new chapter, theirs is a love story rooted in laughter, strengthened by challenges, and brightened by the promise of many more adventures to come.

Here’s to Hannah and Ross—may the sunshine always find you, and may your journey together be as joyful as your beautiful wedding day.