Meet the team... Andrea
At the end of another busy wedding season in the Woods, we catch up with our Sales and Operations Manager Andrea McKee to learn what goes into planning a wonderful woodland wedding and what her role entails.
Andrea manages the weddings and large scale events at Finnebrogue Woods, a familiar face to any recent couples, Andrea meets couples at their initial visit to the Lakeside Tipis and is there on their special day, making sure everything runs smoothly and final details are in place.
Q&A
1. Tell us about your role here at Finnebrogue Woods.
My role here in Finnebrogue Woods is Sales and Operations Manager. My background is in hospitality and hotel management as well as a brief spell in the air! (working in the middle east as cabin crew for a time.)
I have worked within the MagnaMoon Group for almost 10 years starting out with our sister company Blue Moon until more recently joining the Finnebrogue Woods team.
I look after our couples from their initial viewing right through the planning process and am also with them on the day to ensure all runs smoothly.
2. What's been a highlight or memorable moment this wedding season?
It's hard to choose just one to be honest, there really have been so many special moments for each couple, every wedding in the Woods is so unique and special!
I love seeing our couples make the space their own, from dog ring bearers, brides arriving on horses, surprise circus performers, you just never know what is next!
3. Describe Finnebrogue Woods as a wedding venue in 3 words.
Whimsical Romantic FUN!
4. Do you have a favourite spot you recommend to couples looking for the perfect photo on the day?
We take our couples to a hill here on the Estate, the views of the Mourne Mountains are incredible, this would have to be my favourite spot.
5. What's your favourite moment of the wedding day?
Watching the Groom’s reaction when the Bride walks down the aisle.
6. Do you have a top tip for avoiding mishaps on the day?
Be organised!! We meet with our couples around 8-10 weeks prior to run through their day and then we run through the details again the day before. This ensures nothing is overlooked.
7. What happens now the wedding season is over?
Our Tipis have come down to be cleaned and stored away for the Winter months. This gives the site a rest and some time to recover following the busy season.
We on the other hand are busy planning for next season and beyond!
We are always trying to improve our offering, the winter months give us some time to reflect on the past season and plan any changes or improvements for next year.
Our sister company Magnakata also operates all year round, so we will be busy working on those events too.