Review – The Abbey

Welcome to The Abbey in Athy, Co. Kildare. I took a trip to this very unique venue before Christmas. Before arriving, I didn’t really know too much about the venue but now that I know, you will do well to stop me raving about it.

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It’s a dedicated wedding and event venue tucked away neatly just off the main street of Athy. It’s so private and only available for exclusive use meaning that the only people present on your wedding is your wedding party. What I loved about this venue was all of the little details which are made with wedding couples in mind. This has been designed specifically for weddings. There is so much character and there is no doubt that guests would love to be part of your wedding here.

Arrival

When you arrive you will be greeted by a period building with original stone work. Upon entering, you are met with a feature wall with alcove and original mosaic tile design. It sets the tone for what comes next. This lobby area is a great location to welcome guests and it also has two wings for guests to meander to. To the right, you have a room called ‘The Groom’s Room’ or ‘Whiskey Room’, which doubles up as a guest lounge and a room for the groom and groomsmen to take stock before the ceremony. A little tip, lift up the globe antique…. you might just find a little tipple inside!

To the left of the lobby there is a drawing room fully furnished with comfy sofas and an open fire. This is a great room to mingle and for those who may not want to take part in the dancing later that night, it’s is a nice quiet escape.

Ceremony

When it is time to say ‘I Do’, you will have one of THE most iconic locations. The Abbey boasts a truly beautiful original 18th century chapel. It is beyond impressive and has so many of the original features including the holy water well! As you make your entrance from the winding stairs, you have the full aisle experience. The high vaulted ceiling and stain-glass windows are beautiful backdrops for your photography. You can also avail of the gallery area for your music if you wish.

To the left of the alter, there is a hidden chapel bar. Yes a bar! You and your guests can get a post ceremony drink and there is a very cute snug for the bride and groom.

The chapel and bar area can also be transformed for your party later in the evening. You can have your band here if you wish. It is also the residents bar. A really nice location!

Dine & Dance

Once you say your ‘I Do’s’, you can make your way to the courtyard and lobby. The landscaped courtyard is a lovely outdoor drinks reception area. The lobby is so impressive and offers plenty of room to chat with guests. There is also a little hidden bar… Make sure to keep your eye out for one of the windows in the lobby as behind that you have a bar.

When the dinner bell rings, your guests will enter the spacious Ballroom. The Ballroom is so versatile as it has a non intrusive design that will work with so many decor options. The cherry blossoms you see in my pictures are from Blissful Wedding Decor. The room can host up to 250 guests but is adaptable to have lower numbers on round tables. The room can be divided to have the band and dance floor set up. To the left of the room you will have an abundance of natural light coming in from the courtyard area. There is a bar within the room meaning that your guests can all be together.

To plan all of the finer details such as menu and flow of your day, you will sit with Arizbeth, the dedicated wedding coordinator to select your menu items with pairing wines. You can then make the decision on where you want to have your dancing as you have two options.

Prep & Stay

Some of you may decide to come and stay the night before and do all of your preparation there.

To Prep…

If you choose to do a rehearsal dinner or even a day two, you can avail of ‘The Dining Room’. I loved this room. It has the original mirrors which bounces the natural light so well. At night it is stunning candle lit.

If you stay the night before and need to do all of your beauty prep the next morning, well you have the most amazing suite to do this!! This bridal or groom prep suite offers a fully decked salon with champagne and music. This is a make up artists and hair stylists dream. You also have the wrap around mirror to see your full look from all angles.

Staying

There are 38 guest rooms, all of which are luxurious and come with eclectic decor. Every guest room is technology free so that you and your guests can completely unplug. You have no idea how happy I was to hear this! I always used to feel for couples who’s wedding day may have clashed with a sporting event and then guests are found hoarding around a telly in the bar or guest room and missing the dinner bell! None of that, those who are present are actually present.

The bridal suite has a dramatic edge with different lighting moods throughout. The lounge area comes with a sofa and is darker, and as you move towards the bathroom is becomes brighter. When you reach the double shower you have a beautiful tranquil green feel. Essentially, in one suite you have night and day! Coming soon, an outdoor dining balcony for couples. This will be a beautiful spot to have your breakfast the morning after your wedding.

Overall, this venue has really stood out for me. Totally memorable with it’s character and lavish decor. A must see for couples looking for something a little different.