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Erin daniel The Rabbit Hotel

Weddings

22/11/2022

Erin & Daniel


The Happy Couple

Tell us a little about how you met 

We met years ago in a bar in Cookstown where I worked. Daniel was in one night and his friend started the conversation between us.

Talk us through the proposal

We went to London in January for my birthday and he proposed to me in our hotel room. He had planned on booking the London Eye but I told him I didn't want to go on it as there were big queues lol. (You can imagine how unorganised Daniel is).

Your Day, Your Way

Ceremony

Holy Trinity Church, Cookstown

What made you choose The Loft to host your day?

I had seen The Loft online and I thought the images looked too good to be true. It was the first (and only) venue that we looked at and when we saw it in person I was blown away by how beautiful it was. Maureen was so welcoming and gave me so much information and guidance as I hadn't a clue where to start with wedding planning. I couldn't imagine having our day anywhere else. It was perfect.

Favourite memory of your Wedding Day

Sitting down to dinner, finally relaxed after the chapel nerves, photos etc and just taking it all in. All our favourite people there and such a beautiful setting.

How was your Wedding Planner?

Absolutely fantastic. I cannot thank Maureen enough for all she has done. Nothing was ever any bother. She made planning my day so enjoyable!

Top Tips

Try and enjoy the day as it really does go as fast as people say.

Shout Out To The Dream Team

Wedding Stationery

Myself

Cake

Myself (display cake) Corner Bakery Cookstown (real slabs)

Flowers

Pampas and Bloom

Entertainment

The Nooks

Photographer

Tony Donnelly

Wedding Dress & Accessories

Reflections Bridal Studio Lisburn

Bridesmaid’s Dresses 

House of Fraser

Groomswear

Freddie Hatchett

The Glam Squad

Hair

Emma Mallon

Makeup

Kelly Wison

Chloe daniel The Rabbit Hotel

Weddings

13/07/2021

Chloe & Daniel


The Happy Couple

Tell us a little about how you met

We first met on a double date when we were 16 years old. We walked around talking and having fun. There were many more occasions like this but we became really close friends for many years. We always had a connection at a young age but the time was not right for us. Through the years we partied, went on holidays and dates together then in our early 20s after a few years of Chloe chasing me I finally seen some sense. My soul mate was there all along!

Talk us through the proposal

In June 2019 we went on a lovely holiday to Thailand. I had known for a while that this was the perfect time to ask Chloe to marry me. The white sand beaches were so beautiful so I decided to grab my go pro and take Chloe on a walk along the beach until we found a nice quiet spot. I quickly set up my go pro as if I was taking a picture of us together with the sunset, this is when I got down on one knee and asked Chloe to marry me.

Your Day, Your Way

Ceremony

We decided we wanted to have our whole day at The Rabbit. Due to the risk assessment the original ceremony room was not big enough to hold all of our guests so Abby and Steven quickly turned another room into a beautiful setting for our ceremony.

What made you choose The Loft to host your day?

Chloe and I saw photos of The Rabbit/The Loft prior to its opening date and immediately loved it. We were supposed to get married in 2020 in Ibiza but due to the pandemic this was not likely to happen. We both knew this was our opportunity to enquire about a wedding at The Loft. Abby was in contact with us straight away and she was beyond comforting about the whole situation as well as helpful and promising about The Loft. We had a visit to meet Abby and to see The Rabbit/The Loft and this was the icing on the cake. This Hotel/Venue was perfect in every way for us, from then we just couldn’t wait to have our family and friends here to witness us tie the knot.

Favourite memory of your Wedding Day

Chloe and I both agree that it is so hard to pick one part of the wedding as our whole day was perfect. It all ran so smoothly and we just loved it so much!

Your wedding planner and thoughts

Chloe first got the know Abby through facetime during the Pandemic. From the very start she has been absolutely amazing she was always literally only a text or email away. Everything was exactly how we wanted it and more because of Abby. We had such a laugh together and have actually all become friends which is the best part. We want to give a big shout out to our Master of Services Stephen who we met a few days before the wedding and loved him straight away. He helped massively on the day and kept us right. This man went above and beyond to make sure everything was right. These two amazing human beings are a wonder dream team. Everyone loved them!

Top Tips

Our top tip for a wedding day is relax, take a breath and really take the whole day in. A wedding day is the best day of your life without a doubt and it goes in so fast.

Shout Out To The Dream Team

Wedding Stationery

Our wedding welcome sign was made by Emma Macdonald who is a friend of Chloe’s from work. She done a great job.

Cake

Our cake was made by 

. Firstly, the cake looked unbelievable and tasted even better. Keely done so much for us, she went to the venue the morning of the wedding and set the cake up for us.

Flowers

Our flowers were by Maisie Chic Flowers by Michelle Andrews. The flowers were beautiful and she was so friendly.

Entertainment

Our entertainment was Mark Brown and his page on Facebook is Wedding Dj Northern Ireland. Mark was great crack.

Photographer

Our Photographer was Gabrielle and her page is 

. Gabrille was unbelievable crack and amazing at taking photos!!

Videographer

Our Videographer was Paul and his page is Wedding DVD Videographer & Stationery Northern Ireland. Paul was brilliant.

Wedding Dress & Accessories

Wedding dress and veil were from Divinity Bridal. Wedding dress was by enzoani.

The Glam Squad

Hair

Hair was done by Chloes best friend Danielle her page is 

. It was so lovely to have her share the morning with Chloe and all the girls.

Makeup

Makeup was done by my sister Leanda her page is 

. It was also lovely to have Leanda share the morning with all the girls.

Spring at the rabbit The Rabbit Hotel

News

19/02/2024

Blossom into springtime with a luxury rest and recharge at The Rabbit Hotel & Retreat


The birds are singing, the mornings are brighter and there’s a grand old stretch in the evenings. All that can mean just one thing – Spring has sprung at last.

 

With those feel-good vibes in the air, it’s the perfect time for an indulgent rest and recharge to set you up for the action-packed months ahead. The Rabbit Hotel and Retreat, located in the heart of Co Antrim and just a short drive from Belfast International Airport, has all the options you need for some well-deserved “me-time” to blow away those winter cobwebs and put a spring firmly back in your step.

The stunning lakeside retreat and open-air spa are the icing on the cake for the standout location’s show-stopping facilities. Perfect for overnight guests and day spa visitors, the options are endless for a dreamy Springtime reset.

Hop to It

Discover the very best The Rabbit has to offer with seasonal ‘Hop to It’ stay, and help yourself spring into Springtime. Relax and unwind with a trip to the spa, indulge in its incredible outdoor facilities and immerse yourself in the Roman bath before taking the chance to cleanse body and mind with a Duo Clay Ritual or upgrade to the brand-new Botanical Bath private bathing experience. After a day of indulgence, catch up with some much-needed ZZZs in your snug and cosy guestroom. With access to The Spa from midday on your day of check-in until you check out, keep the relaxation up on day two – but don’t forget your breakfast. From £185 per room.

 

Embrace your Springtime Glow

Enjoy a day spa retreat at The Rabbit for that all-important seasonal reset. With access from 8am, the stunning retreat offers the perfect backdrop for a day of indulgence. Explore first-class facilities like the Roman bath, Swedish sauna, salt chamber, hot tubs and heated pebble beach, before a 60-minute Spring Glow treatment to include Back Scrub or Massage with Brightening Facial – not to mention a delicious one-course Spa Lunch. And to make sure your new-found glow keeps on giving, the Spring Glow package, from £110 per person, also comes with a £20 retail credit to use for spa products on the day.

 

Go big with The Full Works

Truly indulge with The Full Works package at The Rabbit Hotel & Retreat, and come away refreshed for the season. As well as full access to The Spa, including the Roman bath, heated pebble beach and hot tubs, indulge even more with a private Duo Clay Ritual and a 60-minute spa treatment of your choice. Make your way to The Restaurant for a fabulous three-course evening meal, before a night of true relaxation in The Rabbit’s top-class accommodation. Finish it all off the next day with a delicious breakfast, and another trip to The Spa before heading back to the real world with a spring in your step. From £475 per room, it will be a Spring Break to remember. Guests can also enhance their stay or day spa package with a 60-minute lakeside botanical bathing experience.

Chef The Rabbit Hotel

Recipes

21/06/2023

BBQ tips by chef Declan Donnolly


Explore The Rabbit chef Declan Donnolly's top tips on a successful BBQ to impress family & friends this Summer!

1. The best tip for a good BBQ is all in the preparation. Marinating your meat and poultry in advance (maybe that morning, or the day before) gives a more in depth flavour.

2. Different types of coals provide a better smoke depending on the meat. I would use a medium heat to slowly cook your meat, because if it’s too hot you can end up with too much char before the meat is fully cooked.

3. Basting every now and again adds even more flavour and it’s a great idea to use a bunch of fresh herbs such as thyme or rosemary as your basting brush.

4. Don't forget, a good BBQ also relies on the side dishes. Baked potatoes wrapped in foil cooked perfectly, a sweetcorn salsa or potato salad is a tasty option and buttered corn on the cob is also a great addition.

Why not add our delicious Sangria?

Ingredients:

  • 100ml of White wine
  • 25ml of orange syrup
  • 25ml of passion fruit liqueur
  • 15ml of lime
  • Orange bitters

Method:

  • This cocktail will be served in a wine glass, add ice to the glass and set it to the side
  • Start adding all the ingredients in the glass and add some orange bitters on the top
  • Add any fruit that are on season such as strawberries or oranges
  • Finish your cocktail with couple of straws & an edible flower (optional)

Enjoy!

Emma connor The Rabbit Hotel

Weddings

04/09/2021

Emma & Connor


The Happy Couple

Tell us a little about how you met

We are what you would call 'childhood sweethearts'. We met at Ballymena Academy when Emma was completing her GCSE's and Connor was completing his A-Levels. Emma's mum was late to collect her from school one day resulting in us crossing paths at the end of the school drive. Connor quickly asked Emma out on their first date to Morellis and the rest is history. 

Talk us through the proposal

On a windy weekend away in Donegal, whilst walking on the beach (our favourite thing to do), Connor asked Emma to be his wife after almost 7 years together. We were the only two people on the beach and it was simply beautiful. A lot of tears were shed by Emma!

Your Day, Your Way

What made you choose The Loft to host your day?

We booked The Loft after meeting Abby in a construction site. Abby was so passionate about The Loft and gave us a vision of what it was going to be. The reality far exceeded our expectations. The Loft is simply beautiful and it really is breathtaking coming up those stairs. We will never forget the first moment of seeing the venue after booking in February 2020. 

Favourite memory of your Wedding

The whole day was simply amazing, it's so difficult to choose just one memory. However, the 20 minute sitting in the love seat prior to entering for dinner was one of the best moments of the day. Spending time together as husband and wife, just reflecting on the day so far was so special. 

How was your Loft Wedding Planner?

Abby was phenomenal. We simply cannot put into words how amazing Abby and the whole team at The Rabbit were. From the first day we met Abby to the final moments leaving after our wedding, her service was outstanding. Abby went above and beyond for us in every single detail of our wedding and was always at the end of the phone to answer any questions we had. She took all our requests in her stride and helped us plan the most amazing day of our lives. Abby, we cannot thank you enough. Everyone throughout the day commented on the service they received from all staff. 

Top Tips

Just enjoy every single moment because it all goes by in a flash. Remember to spend some time just the two of you to reflect on the day. There is something so special about all your favourite people being in the same room celebrating and cheering you on as husband and wife. 

Shout Out To The Dream Team 

Wedding Stationery

Chief bridesmaid Megan Workman who done amazing at creating the most beautiful stationery. Her creativity is something that inspires me everyday. 

Cake

Gingerbread Bakes. A local baker from Ballymena who made such a gorgeous wedding cake. Simply beautiful and so tasty. 

Flowers

Tortraits Floral Design. Victoria is amazing at what she does and her service is so professional. 

Entertainment

Fifth Avenue and DJ represented by Glen Houston Entertainment. They were phenomenal and kept the party going all night. 

Photographer

Kellie Scott. Kellie is amazing at what she does and truly is one of the nicest people we have ever met. You get a friend and a photographer with Kellie. 

Wedding Dress & Accessories

Dress was from Forever Bridal Belfast and accessories by Deborah K Design. The dress made Emma feel like such a princess and the detachable train allowed for all the moves on the dance floor!

Bridesmaid's Dresses

ASOS surprisingly. They were exactly what we were looking for and allowed us some extra room in the budget. All the bridesmaids looked simply stunning. 

Groomswear

Hire Class Ballymena. Darrell was so knowledgeable and an overall great guy who helped all the guys to feel confident on the day. 

The Glam Squad

Hair

Sam Surgenor assisted by Charly Surgenor. Both girls were amazing at making us feel beautiful. 

Makeup

Hayley McClean Makeup. Hayley is such a lovely girl and unreal at what she does. She is also such good craic and helped keep the nerves to a min


Sarah alastair The Rabbit Hotel

Weddings

03/07/2021

Sarah & Alastair


The Happy Couple  

Tell us a little about how you met:

Alastair and I met working together, supporting adults with severe learning difficulties. In this job we got to see each others best and worst qualities, and shared both proud moments and challenging experiences together. We supported a particular man, who we have much to thank for and he will always be a big part of our story. 

Talk us through the proposal:

We were staying at Aurora in Bushmills for the weekend and got up on Saturday morning to visit my favourite place, Ballintoy Harbour. I can remember it rained that morning, and I wasn’t too keen on going out in the rain. But Alastair encouraged me to go and the rain thankfully stopped. Once we got down to the harbour, Alastair asked me to turn around so he could take a photo of me. So, I turned to face the sea, and when I turned back around, he was down on one knee and asked me to marry him. I answered with, “are you serious” and then a quick “yes”. I had absolutely no idea and Alastair picked the ring himself. We were on cloud nine all weekend in our engagement bubble. 

 

Your Day, Your Way

Ceremony:

Dromore Methodist Church 

What made you choose The Loft to host your day?

The Loft was the very first Wedding venue we visited and at the time it was a building site. Abby showed us around and talked us through everything and we just had a good feeling and asked to book the first Saturday of July. Which also ended up being our anniversary date, so it all worked out perfectly. 

Favourite memory of your Wedding:

Our favourite memory of the wedding day was walking into The Loft for the first time as Mr and Mrs McCracken and seeing all our family and friends together in the most beautiful venue. 

Your wedding planner and thoughts:

Abby Dunlop was our wedding planner for our special day at The Loft and was absolutely amazing! Abby was quick to reply to us when we had any queries and reassured us when we were planning during lockdown. Every time we met Abby at The Loft, we left feeling very happy and had plenty of giggles during our meetings. We never had any worries about the venue because Abby is a rockstar! 

Top Tips:

Don’t stress too much!! It always comes together in the end, and enjoy the best day of your life!

 

Shout Out To The Dream Team 

Cake:

Emily Mehaffy 

Flowers:

Fleuriste 

Entertainment:

Good old Spotify playlist (covid restrictions)

Photographer:

Stacey Anna 

Wedding Dress & Accessories:

Jill Jones Bridal 

Groomswear:

Collar and Tie Lisburn 

 

The Glam Squad

Hair:

Megan-The Glamour Room

Makeup:

Anna McConnell

 

Galgorm collection rewards The Rabbit Hotel

News

05/02/2024

Galgorm Collection unveils groundbreaking new loyalty scheme in Northern Ireland


Galgorm Rewards employs digital tech to elevate the guest experience into 2024 and beyond with an unrivalled rewards programme across its entire portfolio.

Galgorm Collection, renowned for its legacy in luxury hospitality, has officially launched a new, groundbreaking loyalty initiative, Galgorm Rewards.

As the first of its kind for a Northern Irish independent hospitality group, this programme encompasses the Galgorm Collection portfolio; Galgorm, the Rabbit Hotel & Retreat, The Old Inn, and the esteemed Fratelli and Parisien restaurants in Belfast.

Creating endless opportunities to save, the new ‘Galgorm Rewards’ programme redefines guest experiences, creating a seamless and rewarding journey across all properties, enabling registered visitors and guests to unlock real value and new possibilities when they redeem their points for a variety of Galgorm Collection reward vouchers which they can use themselves.

Designed with simplicity in mind, the loyalty programme is complimentary to join, meaning every visit now comes with the added allure of earning points towards exclusive rewards. Guests can start to enjoy the benefits when they register, with 1 point gained for every £1 spent across any of its hotels or venues. Rewards span across all properties and can vary from either a pampering spa day to an exquisite dining experience, or a serene retreat.

Effective immediately, the new loyalty programme means visitors and guests can check their balance and redeem their Galgorm Rewards at any time. The App is available to download at the Apple App Store and through Google Play.

Elaine Kelly, Project and Systems Manager at Galgorm Collection, said, "At Galgorm Collection, we believe that every guest should be treated to a remarkable and memorable experience. Galgorm Rewards is our way of thanking our valued guests by adding an extra layer of joy to their visits. It's our gift—a token of appreciation for choosing us. The groundbreaking initiative is safe, simple and easy to use so that our guests can enjoy more of what they like most.

As the region’s first independent hotel group to introduce a digital loyalty reward scheme, our newest innovation underpins our reputation as a future-focused market leader committed to delivering hospitality excellence in every area.”

The new initiative marks the latest in a series of major milestones across the entire Galgorm Collection.

In December, Galgorm was named as the best UK Spa at the AA Hotel Spa awards, with its thermal village gaining the award due to its exceptional and exemplary spa standards and outstanding wellness experiences. It also won an unprecedented six awards at the prestigious 2023 World Luxury Awards hosted in Athens and secured the Best Destination Spa 2024 title at the recent Conde Nast Johansens Awards in London.

One of its newest properties, the Old Inn in Crawfordsburn, a historic landmark exuding timeless sophistication, became its latest venue to secure AA 4 Star Silver rating and a prestigious AA Rosette for Culinary Excellence. Since being acquired by Galgorm Collection in 2021, The Old Inn has already achieved a listing within Ireland’s Blue Book 2023 and was also named in the Irish Independent’s ‘FAB 50’ Top Stays in Ireland 2022.

“At Galgorm Collection, we listen to the needs of our guests and then innovate to ensure their experience is the best it can be – and there is plenty to enjoy,” Galgorm Collection Group Marketing Manager Victoria Brown said. “As we continue our focus on innovation, pushing the boundaries in loyalty and service, our new Galgorm Rewards programme marks an important milestone in our growth and in enhancing our guests’ overall experience every time."

Galgorm Collection also became the first hospitality group on the island of Ireland to achieve official ‘Great Place to Work’ certification, based on exceptional employee experience.

A major local employer, Galgorm Collection has dramatically scaled up its hospitality footprint and workforce over the last decade following a £90 million investment into the ongoing expansion and refurbishment of its flagship property Galgorm, with its latest investment project aiming to add new accommodation types and spa facilities by 2027.

Committed to working towards a sustainable future, protecting the environment, and reducing its carbon footprint through its Green Policy 10-Point Plan, Galgorm recently became the first hotel in Northern Ireland to achieve gold in two top sustainability accolades from Green Tourism in recognition of its “exceptional commitment to sustainable practices.”

For more information and to download the Galgorm Rewards App, visit:

About Galgorm Collection

Galgorm Collection stands as a beacon in the hospitality sector, offering a diverse range of luxury experiences across hotels, spas, and dining establishments. With an unwavering commitment to excellence and a fervor for creating unforgettable moments, Galgorm Collection continues to set the standard for hospitality in the UK and beyond.

Leoni jason The Rabbit Hotel

Weddings

01/07/2021

Leoni & Jason


The Happy Couple

Tell us a little about how you met:

We had known of each other for a few years and had chatted on and off for a few months but nothing materialised. On St Patrick’s Day 2017, Leoni was out in Belfast with her friends and missed the last train home, so she text me asking what I was at that evening. She dropped a few hints and without actually asking me, I offered to pick her and her friends up. To return the favour, she told me she would take me out and a couple of nights later, we had our first date to see Beauty and the Beast at the cinema. From there, we started to see each other more regularly and while on separate trips – Leoni was in New York and I was in London, we realised what we had was special and when we both got home, I asked Leoni to be my girlfriend.

Talk us through the proposal:

I (Jason) proposed at Fairhead, Ballycastle in September 2018, which is where we had one of our very first dates. Fairhead is a cliff edge overlooking Murlough Bay and Rathlin Island and on the day we went, Leoni had no idea what was happening and thought we were just going a walk. I arranged for Leoni’s uncle Niall (who is a photographer) to follow us up and take photos as the proposal unfolded. The day itself was quite possibly the wettest, windiest, coldest day ever and once we reached the top, I had Leoni face towards Rathlin Island and away from me, pretending I was taking photos of her. She turned round and I was down on one knee and she said yes! (Picture attached.)

Your Day, Your Way

Ceremony:

St.Patrick's Church, Crebilly, Ballymena 

What made you choose The Loft to host your day?

Our first wedding date had been postponed and we were having doubts about the venue we had booked. Neil at Starling Entertainments mentioned The Loft to us and after a quick chat with Abby, we booked a visit to have a look around. From the moment we arrived, we had a good feeling about the venue before we even saw the Loft! The staff were so attentive and as we were a little early, offered us a drink as we waited. Abby showed us around and as soon as we walked up the stairs and into The Loft, we were blown away. The look on Leoni’s face when she saw the room was something I’ll never forget and luckily, our date was free and we made the booking there and then. It was the best decision we made and seemed like it was meant to be after our original wedding was postponed.

Favourite memory of your Wedding:

Seeing eachother at the top of the aisle in the chapel. It was just the most special, amazing moment. 

Your wedding planner and thoughts:

Our wedding planner was Abby and we honestly cannot speak highly enough of her! She made everything so easy for us from the moment we met her – planning the wedding in eight weeks should have been stressful but it wasn’t! She made sure everything ran like clockwork on the day – from looking after the page boy while we were taking photos to co-ordinating the speeches to making sure we always had a drink, she could not have been more helpful. So many of our guests commented on how great a job she did, so that says a lot in itself. Just to add, we called up to the Rabbit for a drink and bite to eat after we got back from honeymoon and she even had two glasses sent to our table which was a lovely thing to do.

Top Tips:

Honestly, just enjoy it - everyone tells you that the day flies in and it really does. Take some time just the two of you away from everyone else on the day and lastly, get some sleep the night before!

Shout Out To The Dream Team 

Wedding Stationery:

Perfect Day

Cake:

Buttercream and Blossoms

Flowers:

Ivy Lane

Entertainment:

Starling Entertainments

Photographer:

Angel Photography and Film

Wedding Dress & Accessories:

Dress - The Bridal Company, Templepatrick

Accessories - The Little Pearl Company

Bridesmaid's Dresses:

She's Fabulous, Garvagh

Groomswear:

Groom - Dee Graham Tailor Made 

Party - Hire Clas, Ballymena

The Glam Squad

Hair:

Gemma Weir at Coco Rose, Ballymena

Makeup:

Kelly McAleese MUA 

Pumpkin pie The Rabbit Hotel

Recipes

01/11/2023

Pumpkin Pie


Pumpkin Pie, an excellent way to use up those leftover Halloween pumpkins and enjoy a delicious treat!

Ingredients

  • Shortcrust pastry (a shop bought sweet pastry case will work just as well)
  • 300g plain flour
  • 150g unsalted butter
  • 100g icing sugar
  • 2 egg yolks

Filling

  • 750g pumpkins peeled, deseeded and cut into chunks
  • 140g caster sugar
  • ½ teaspoon ground nutmeg
  • ½ teaspoon ground cinnamon
  • Pinch of salt
  • 2 eggs
  • 25g melted butter
  • 175ml milk

Method

  • Shortcrust Pastry Rub flour and butter together until mixture resembles breadcrumbs.
  • Mix in icing sugar then add the egg yolks to combine.
  • If pastry seems too crumbly add 1-2 tbsp cold water until dough forms into a ball.
  • Wrap in cling film and refrigerate for 30 minutes before use.
  • Preheat oven to 160.
  • Roll out pastry and line a 20cm loose bottom tart tin.
  • Line the pastry cae with greaseproof paper and baking beans.
  • Bake for 15 minutes.
  • Remove the paper and beans and bake for a further 10 mins.
  • Lift out and allow to cool.

For the Filling

  • Boil the pumpkin chunks in a large pot of water for 15 minutes or until tender.
  • Drain and set aside to cool slightly.
  • Preheat oven to 200 degrees and mix together the sugar, salt and spices.
  • In a separate bowl, mash the pumpkin then push through a sieve so it is well puréed.
  • Mix the eggs, butter and milk and add to the dry ingredients.
  • Add this mixture to the pumpkin purée and combine well.
  • Pour into the tart case and bake for 10 minutes.
  • Reduce temperature to 160 degrees and bake for a further 30-35 minutes or until filling has set.
  • Leave to cool then dust with icing sugar and serve chilled with freshly whipped cream.
Aoife andy The Rabbit Hotel

Weddings

11/03/2022

Aoife & Andy


The Happy Couple

Tell us a little about how you met

We met online in 2007 over a shared love of music. Aoife posted a photo with a band online and Andy commented on it, having also met the band. A friendship was formed and we chatted regularly, getting to know each other on MSN until we met in person months later to go to a concert together in Dublin. We maintained a long distance relationship for 5 years until Aoife moved North in 2012, so our life together could begin. 

Talk us through the proposal

We got engaged on the edge of Lough Hyne in Co. Cork on our 9 year anniversary. We were at the lake as we were taking part in a night time kayak tour to see the bioluminescence in the water under starlight. We arrived early to take some photos and for Andy to set up a timelapse video of the sunset. This of course was the perfect excuse to capture the whole proposal on camera! Even though it was our anniversary, Aoife was not expecting a proposal at all!

Your Day, Your Way

What made you choose The Loft to host your day?

We had visited many locations around Northern Ireland, searching for the perfect place. Although there are lots of lovely venues (and we even had our date held for another!) it is true what they say…when you find the one, you just know.

It was important to us that our venue have a unique and quirky feel, while still maintaining a high standard. We wanted a venue where we could hold the ceremony on site, and have many guests stay too. The Rabbit Hotel ticked all the boxes (and extra boxes too, a.k.a. the spa!) We fell in love with the Loft and the Fern Room as soon as we saw them.

Even though the Loft was essentially a building site at the time, we could tell by the detail and level of finish in the Fern Room that the Loft would be spectacular. We trusted the artist plans, and Abby did a great job helping us to visualise the space. We were buzzing with excitement on the car ride home from our first visit, and that’s when we truly knew we had found our perfect venue.

Favourite memory of your day

There are so many amazing moments from our day! Our beautiful humanist ceremony in the Fern Room, stealing a few quiet moments together away from the crowds, and dancing the night away with our friends and family.

How was your Loft Wedding Planner?

Abby was absolutely incredible every step of the way. She helped guide us through the planning process and informed us on all we needed to know and decisions we needed to make. We felt we could contact Abby with anything, no matter how big or small, and she would get back to us right away. Her bubbly personality and professionalism were exactly what we needed to help us plan our big day.

Were there any challenges along the way?

Honestly there wasn’t anything too difficult to plan, we had done our research and had a great team at the Loft to help us along the way when needed. Our most difficult part was the week leading up to the wedding, waiting to hear about changes in restrictions, having guests testing positive and having to change our wedding band 3 times!

Top Tips?

Don’t sweat the small stuff! you can’t control every single thing, so just focus on what’s truly important to you and the rest will fall into place. Oh and also get 2 fake tiers in your wedding cake, lest you’ll be eating cake for every meal for a month (learned that one the hard way.)

Would you change anything about your day?

The weather!

Shout Out To The Dream Team 

Cake

Eileen at Wedding Cakes NI

Flowers

Bouquets, lapel pins and cake decorations made by Aoife, using dried flowers from Shida Preserved Flowers

Entertainment

Phil Edgar

Photographer

Laura O'Connor at 

Groomswear

Gowdy's, Belfast

The Glam Squad

Make Up

All done by bridal party

Be mine The Rabbit Hotel

Recipes

01/02/2024

Valentine's Cocktail


Here’s everything you need to know to recreate our Valentine's 'Be Mine' cocktail at home!

What you will need

  • 1 Coupe Glass
  • 1 Boston Shaker
  • 1 Hawthorne Strainer
  • 1 Double Strainer
  • 1 Bar Measure

Ingredients

  • 25ml Grey Goose Strawberry & Lemongrass Essence
  • 25ml Cherry Brandy
  • 35ml Pineapple Juice
  • 35ml Cranberry Juice
  • 20ml Fresh Lime Juice
  • 15ml Blackberry Syrup

Method

  • Add ice to your coupe glass and set aside to chill.
  • Start to add your ingredients to the smaller half of the Boston shaker.
  • Top tip: Always start with your fruit juice, syrups and work your way up.
  • Fill the your shaker with ice, and place the other half of the shaker on top. Try to keep one side of the shaker tin flat, and the other with a gap.
  • Shake firmly for 5 - 10 seconds, with the smaller tin closest to you.
  • Hold the shaker in one hand with the larger of the two parts at the bottom. Where the two tins start to open up into the curve, clap with your other hand and it should pop open.
  • Remove the ice from your coupe, place the Hawthorne strainer on top of your shaker and hold the double strainer over your coupe glass.
  • Gently pour the liquid from the shaker through the two strainers and you should have a nice foamy texture on top from the pineapple juice.
  • Garnish if you wish! We choose an edible flower for ours, it is Valentine's after all!

 

 

Heather martin The Rabbit Hotel

Weddings

28/09/2021

Heather & Martin


The Happy Couple

Tell us a little about how you met

We first met through a mutual friend at a Blue Jays Game in Toronto. We spent the entire game chatting as I shared my “expert” facts about Baseball with Marty. Marty was too polite to question when I told him that the bases were 100m apart from each other (they are 30m). In his head he was wondering how it was possible that a baseball player was out running track athletes multiple times during the game.

Talk us through the proposal

Marty and I were in Italy for a friend's wedding in Siena and following the wedding we travelled to Cinque Terre just the two of us. On a particularly hot day we hiked from Vernazza to Monterosso about a 3 hour hike. Marty was hoping to propose along the trail with the ring stored in his pocket the entire time but the narrow trail did not allow for a stop. When we arrived in Monterosso my hands were so swollen from hiking Marty suggested a dip in the water in hopes my hands would go back to their normal size. After our swim we walked up to the top of the town where he proposed on a beautiful trail overlooking the ocean. I was so shocked I yelled no way then quickly said yes!!

Your Day, Your Way

Ceremony

The Ceremony was held at Marty’s parish Mary Mother of the Church in Saintfield. I walked down the aisle to Inisheer a special song to us. We first heard Inisheer at a pub in Greystones where all the locals were playing it. One of the men got talking to us and at the end of the night said when you two get married (we weren't engaged yet) you should walk down the aisle to Inisheer. We have loved it ever since!!

What made you choose The Loft to host your day?

We were planning our wedding internationally from Canada and after our wedding was cancelled twice due to COVID we were seeking a new venue when it became too complicated to have a wedding in the south and ceremony in the North. Marty’s sister drove past the Loft and stopped in to inquire after hearing about the venue. When we looked online we immediately fell in love with it. The greenery and décor was exactly what we were looking for. We loved the idea that we wouldn’t have to decorate the room and the packages included everything we needed.

Favourite memory of your Wedding

We honestly have so many it is so hard to choose. One of our favourites was the Cocktail reception at the Loft. When guests arrived they were blown away by the beauty of the venue and greeted with Aperol Spritz, Beer Buckets & Prosecco. Stephen grabbed us when we first arrived and walked us through the evening so that we knew exactly what was happening and when. That relieved any stress we had and were able to enjoy every aspect of the evening without thinking about anything!!

How was your Loft wedding planner?

Maureen was INCREDIBLE!! Planning a wedding internationally is not easy but with Maureen and the team at the Loft they made it a breeze. Maureen helped us plan the wedding in a little over 6 weeks and it was perfect!!

On the day of Stephen made us feel like royalty. The service was above and beyond. All of our friends and family were blown away by the venue and the service.

Top Tips

Enjoy the day! The Loft’s staff does an amazing job making sure everything and everyone is looked after which relieves so much stress. We were able to enjoy every moment of the day without a worry in the world.

Shout Out To The Dream Team

Cake

Cakeology NI

Flowers

Flower Room Belfast

Entertainment

The Muddlers Club

Photographer

Colin Colleran

Wedding Dress & Accessories

The Modern Bride

Bridesmaid’s Dresses

Park & Fifth 

Groomswear

Paul Puncher Clothiers

The Glam Squad

Hair

Kim Annesley Hair

Makeup

Tippy Makeup Artist 

Gptw The Rabbit Hotel

News

16/05/2023

Galgorm Collection awarded Great Place to Work!


NI’s award-winning collection of luxury hotels and restaurants becomes first hospitality group on the island of Ireland to achieve official certification based on exceptional employee experience.

Major Northern Ireland employer Galgorm Collection has become the first hospitality group on the island of Ireland to achieve official Great Place to Work certification across its entire portfolio of award-winning luxury hotels and restaurants.

The prestigious endorsement by Great Place to Work, a global authority on workplace culture and wellbeing, was awarded following an extensive independent employee survey which engaged Galgorm Collection’s workforce of around 1,000 team members.

Employees voted across all six properties - including the globally renowned Galgorm, AA Hotel of the Year The Rabbit Hotel & Retreat in Templepatrick, Ireland’s Blue Book recommended property The Old Inn, Crawfordsburn, and its collection of restaurants Fratelli and Parisien in Belfast city centre - and concluded that their workplace is a great place to work.

The only hotel group on the island of Ireland to achieve the exceptional standard, the distinguished certification rewards outstanding employers who demonstrate a high-trust, ‘people-first’ workplace and cultivate a culture which embodies values such as credibility, fairness, respect, camaraderie, honesty and pride.

Laura Millar, HR Associate Director at Galgorm Collection said:

“What makes this accreditation so important to us is that it’s based on authentic employee feedback which is rigorously analysed using data-driven methodology and can be confident that staff feel trusted, valued and supported in their roles and enjoy the many benefits of working with the region’s premier hospitality group. Our success has always depended on our great people. From chefs to bar tenders, spa therapists and managers, to facilities staff, housekeepers, drivers and night porters, our people are what makes us famous for our warm welcome and unforgettable hospitality experience. Through our dedicated People Strategy, we work hard to ensure we offer the most competitive benefits and lead in the development of skills, training and career development opportunities.”

Based solely on rigorous and validated employee feedback gathered by Great Place to Work – the global authority on workplace culture – the accreditation signifies that employees have a consistently positive experience in the workplace.

“At the heart of every organisation are its people, and looking after their wellbeing should be a priority for every employer,” Great Place to Work managing director Benedict Gautrey said. “We know when employees feel genuinely contented and at ease within their roles, they are much more engaged and productive, which leads to better results for everyone.”

A major local employer, Galgorm Collection has dramatically scaled up its hospitality footprint and workforce over the last decade following a £90 million investment into the ongoing expansion and refurbishment of its flagship property Galgorm, with its latest investment project aiming to add new accommodation types and spa facilities by 2027.

Since 2020, Galgorm Collection has acquired and opened two major new hotels, The Rabbit Hotel & Retreat in Templepatrick and The Old Inn, Crawfordsburn, growing its workforce by 30%.

“Galgorm Collection’s award-winning customer excellence and reputation for first-class hospitality is down to the dedication, skills and professionalism of our team and that’s why we continually invest in our workplace culture, training and development and in enhancing career prospects for everyone to make this a great place to work. We’re thrilled that our team voted with their feet to endorse what we do, and we are grateful for the superb work they deliver for our customers and the group every day,” Galgorm Collection managing director Colin Johnston said.

As an officially certified Great Place to Work, Galgorm Collection will automatically be entered into the prestigious Best Workplaces ™ list which recognises organisations which demonstrate an effective management culture that focuses on the individual, their strengths and potential. All of this promotes innovation in the company and their associated economic success.

With sustainability at the heart of its business, Galgorm Collection last year announced a commitment to be carbon neutral by 2030, with a bid to become the first premier hospitality group on the island of Ireland to go fully green.

A year earlier, Galgorm Collection has also committed to the rollout of an enhanced benefits package for all eligible team members, including a £1 million investment into premium private health care cover over the next five years as part of its ongoing commitment to investing in its people.

In March 2021, Galgorm Collection announced 180 new roles across its range of hotels and restaurants to meet anticipated post-pandemic demand and announced its investment of more than £5m in annual wages in creating the new roles.

For more information on current roles available across Galgorm Collection, and to apply, visit galgorm.com/work-with-us.html

Sorcha michael The Rabbit Hotel

Weddings

03/08/2022

Sorcha & Michael


The Happy Couple

Tell us a little about how you met & talk us through the proposal

Michael and I met 10.5 years ago through friends! We got engaged 3 years ago in Dublin, one of our favourite cities! It was unexpected on my end but looking back Michael was extremely nervous!! He kept saying he felt sick 🙈 I could not get over the efforts he went to, especially picking my ring! It was from chupi, a Dublin based jewellers who loves pink just as much as me!

Your Day, Your Way

What made you choose The Loft to host your day?

I came across the loft online just before the renovation was finished! We arranged to go have a look but then covid struck the same week! We never really discussed booking our wedding again as we were busy enough with our 2 girls but when I saw there was a wedding weekend I thought we should have a look! We instantly fell in love with the laid back vibe and picture perfect decor! We did everything back to front so we continued that by booking the wedding for 5 months later!

Favourite memory of your Wedding

It would be very difficult to pick one part of the day! I was told many times that a bride doesn’t enjoy their own wedding but I absolutely loved every bit! First coming into The Loft and getting to socialise with friends and family was a great feeling but dancing the night away to YeooDJ has to be a favourite memory! They read the crowd so well and had everyone up dancing for hours!

Shout Out To The Dream Team

Wedding Stationery

My creative sister, Caitlín!

Cake

Lilypink Bakery

Flowers 

Sass & Halo

Entertainment

YeooDj

Photographer

Favours

We opted for a gin cart instead!

Wedding Dress & Accessories

Custom dress by Eamonn McGill Design

Shoes

Gucci

Bridesmaid’s Dresses

ASOS

Groomswear 

Red Belfast

The Glam Squad

Makeup

DJ Griffin

Hair

Francene Carlin