Ireland's Dromoland Castle Offers Ultimate Proposal Package

The Dromoland Castle in County Clare, Ireland, is offering the Ultimate Proposal Package. Dromoland Castle, a property of The Dromoland Collection, is a Renaissance structure built in the 16th century and surrounded by a 410-acre estate. The package includes two nights in a Signature Suite, a full Irish breakfast in the Earl of Thomond Restaurant, champagne breakfast delivered to the suite one morning, and a “decadent couples” treatment at The Spa at Dromoland.

Also included in the package are three experiences delivery of the engagement ring to the hand of the groom-to-be by one the castle’s trained falcons; a private helicopter trip to the Cliffs of Moher, the limestone palisade ascending 1,220 feet above the Atlantic Ocean; and a catered dinner under the stars in the Temple of Mercury. The package is available now through September 30, 2010. And April 1 through September 30, 2011, subject to availability. The cost is $3,322 per person sharing, VAT and service charges included.

Two Connoisseurs of Scotland Hotels Offer Wedding Packages

The Boath House Hotel and the Knockinaam Lodge are offering personally tailored wedding packages. Weddings at these properties are custom made for each couple, with a wide selection of ceremony locations from the shores of the Irish Sea to the halls of a Georgian mansion as well as Michelin-starred cuisine, individually decorated suites, experienced personnel and exclusive use of the properties, couples will be able to create the wedding that they desire.

The acres of gardens and scenic grounds surrounding the Boath House Hotel provide a backdrop for the private ceremonies held within the Georgian mansion. Couples marrying in the warmer months can choose to be wed in a lakeside ceremony or amongst the several thousand daffodils blooming in the spring; locations within the mansion include the pillared hall and large lounges, each reminiscent of the Georgian era in which they were originally designed. The eight bedrooms, accommodating up to 16 guests, include two courtyard suites, each with a private entrance and modern accents, as well as the exclusive Mickle cottage, offering seclusion and featuring its own entrance and garden, two bathrooms, and a bedroom with connecting lounge area. The Michelin-starred dining room offers a setting for the wedding meal -- and comfortably seats 26 people. It has also been awarded 4AA rosettes and is recognized as one of the top 10 restaurants in Scotland. Weddings are booked exclusive use for £4,640 ($7,556), which includes bed and breakfast for all of the rooms as well as the organizational costs of the ceremony; charge for a second day/night for the group is £4,000 ($6,514).

Set within a country landscape and featuring a private beach on the shores of the Irish Sea, the Knockinaam Lodge is also a setting for an intimate wedding. Whether choosing a ceremony on the meticulously lawn overlooking the sea, or on the beach itself, the surroundings lend an air of romance to the affair. The seasoned staff can handle all arrangements, from flowers to photographers, or can provide a full list of local companies for couples who prefer to make the arrangements themselves. Knockinaam’s Michelin-starred restaurant and chef, Tony Pierce, offer a menu featuring modern Scottish fare made from fresh local produce, tailored to the specific desires of the bride and groom. After the ceremony, guests retire to one of 10 individually decorated bedrooms. Exclusive use rates start at £2,350 ($3,825) per night and include afternoon tea upon arrival, dinner, a full Scottish breakfast and VAT for up to 20 guests.

Ireland's Dromoland Collection Offers Winter Wedding Specials

The resort properties of The Dromoland Collection, including Dromoland Castle and Castle martyr Resort, are offering value-added winter wedding specials. The wedding offer at Dromoland Castle, available from January to March 2010, includes a mulled wine reception; two nights’ accommodation in the Bridal Suite, including the wedding night; special room rates of 215 Euros (weekend) and 195 Euros (mid-week), including full Irish breakfast (tax and service charge included); one room credit for every 15 rooms reserved; use of the Brian Boru Hall, Drawing Room or Terrace Room venues; a five-course set menu for 66 Euros per person (service charge and VAT additional); personalized menus, seating plan and place cards; and chair covers.

Available from November 2009 through February 2010, the Castle martyr Resort’s winter wedding package includes a red carpet welcome and entertainment by a pianist on arrival; a mulled wine reception; two nights’ accommodation in the Manor House for the bride and groom; a special room rate of 190 Euros, including full Irish breakfast (tax and service charge included); use of the Capel Suite or Kiltha Room; a five course set menu for 68 Euros (service charge and VAT inclusive); personalized menus and a framed table plan; and chair covers and candelabra. Castle martyr Resort is located in Castle martyr, County Cork, Ireland. For more information, call 011 353 21 4219000 or visit www.castlemartyrresort.ie. Dromoland Castle is located at Newmarket-on-Fergus, County Clare, Ireland.