Day Two at Intrigue Goes to Ireland was nothing short of breathtaking — a day where creativity flowed as freely as the mist rolling across the Irish countryside, and the magic inside the castle walls seemed to grow with every passing hour.
Blooms, Beauty & Boundless Creativity
While media guests prepared their gear for a day of shooting, our florists stepped into the ballroom to begin styling what would soon become a floral dreamscape.
Using lush European flowers and inspired by the romance of Ireland, designers built an enchanted wedding-in-the-castle vision — blooms spilling over tabletops, sculptural arrangements rising beneath chandeliers, and a color story fit for royalty.
Across the grounds, our photographers and videographers set out on a countryside adventure, camera in hand, model at their side, and inspiration everywhere. Misty hills, historic castles, hidden waterfalls — the kind of ethereal landscape only Ireland can offer. These shoots weren’t just about photos… they were about feeling the story we traveled here to tell.
When everyone returned to the castle, the styled shoot began — a full editorial experience curated by Styled Shoots Across America, filled with dramatic florals, couture moments, and scenes that seemed lifted from a dream. And yes — those sunset shots? Pure cinematic magic.
A Bloom-Filled Record (Or… Not Quite!)
A fun moment in the ballroom — for the first time ever, Sarah lost track of how many centerpieces were created. Day One ended at 72 monofloral arrangements, but Day Two? Who knows! The creativity was overflowing, and counting simply couldn’t keep up.
A first for Intrigue… and the best kind.
And speaking of firsts, we had a very special reunion moment:
Owen — of Netflix’s Big Flower Fight — joined us for the day, making it a Big Flower Fight family gathering with Owen, Henck, Sarah, and Jordan all creating together once again. The joy and laughter in that room? Unmatched.
Gala Night: Fairytales Come to Life
As golden hour drifted into evening, everyone stepped away from designing and shooting to prepare for the night ahead. Formal gowns, tuxes, velvet jackets, glittering accents — every guest dressed to the nines for a royal-level celebration.
In true Intrigue fashion, portraits with the incredible Theo Milo kicked off the evening — dramatic castle lighting, sweeping florals, and guests glowing with pride and joy.
Then came the gala.
Guided by the sound of traditional Irish music, guests entered the ballroom transformed — the florals they created reimagined into an editorial-worthy event space. Candlelit tables, sculptural installations, and lush textures everywhere you looked.
As dinner unfolded, the surprises continued — traditional Irish dancers performed, filling the room with energy, and then taught our group the steps to join in. Laughter, movement, music, and petals all around — the kind of joy that lifts you off your feet, literally.
The Heart of Day Two
Today was about artistry. About storytelling. About stepping into a world where imagination leads and beauty follows.
It was a day where florists and photographers lived inside inspiration, where friendships deepened, and where Ireland showed us that magic is real — and sometimes, it dances right beside you in the candlelight.
As the Night Fades
As the last notes of Irish music drifted through the ballroom and the candles burned low, it hit us — tomorrow we say goodbye to the castle that has felt like home. 🏰
The laughter in the halls, the scent of flowers in every corridor, the creative energy that filled each room — all of it will stay with us long after we’ve packed our bags. Though it’s hard to imagine leaving these walls behind, there’s comfort in knowing the memories made here will linger forever.
But don’t worry — our Irish story isn’t over just yet. More adventures await on the road ahead, and a cozy evening tomorrow will bring our time together to a perfect, heart-full close.
Special Thanks to our Creative Partners and Sponsors:
Photography by Skyler Jordan Photography (@skylerjordanphotography), Emma Mullins Photography (@emullinsphotogram) and Illuminate by Theo Milo (@illuminateby.theomilo)
Retreat host @intrigue_designs
Shoot Stylist @styledshootsacrossamerica
Planner @emeraldevents.ie
Venue @markreecastlesligo
Fine Rentals @theparloureventhire
Flowers @intrigueteaches student led team
Floral Co-hosts @theflowershedsligo & @kaysflowerschool
Gowns @pronovias
Suits @magee1866
Hair & Make-up @keirasmyths
Cake @cupcakesandcounting
Linens @totaleventrental
Stationery @appleberryatelier
Entertainment @donegaldancers
Models @laurenmcdonagh_ @billywilson0812 @thefoxandtheivy
Bridal Accessories @opalandblossom
Concierge Meteorologist @ironicreports
Raincoats @rain.sisters
Wholesale Flowers @hoekflowers
Flower Software @detailsflowers
Suppliers @oasisfloralproductsamerica @oasisfloralproductsuk