Stephanie Yates, a medical scientist from Little Island, Cork, and Samuel Joseph Dairiam, an emergency department doctor with roots in Malaysia and Glanmire, were married in Ireland on May 15 before celebrating a second blessing in Malaysia on June 27, uniting families and traditions across multiple continents.
Meeting During Covid and a Proposal on the Amalfi Coast
The couple first crossed paths in May 2020 at Mercy University Hospital during covid, according to Stephanie Yates. Three years later, Samuel Joseph Dairiam proposed on July 27, 2023, at Villa Cimbrone in Ravello, Italy. The trip coincided with the groom’s birthday, and the bride noted that they had the entire area to themselves while looking out at the ocean.
Dual Wedding Ceremonies in Cork and Penang
Following their engagement, the couple held their initial wedding ceremony in Ireland at Our Lady Crowned Church in Mayfield, with a Mass led by Fr Charles Kiely. Musician Carys Ann Evans played the harp as the ceremony began, while the groom reportedly had a shot of Jameson to calm his nerves, according to the bride. A Jaguar MK2 from Cork Wedding Cars transported the newlyweds to their reception at Innishannon House Hotel. Guests traveled from around the world, prompting the bride to describe the gathering as looking “like the United Nations.” A second blessing and reception subsequently took place on June 27 at the Eastern and Oriental Hotel in Penang, allowing the couple to incorporate Indian culture and hospitality.
Wedding Attire and Vendors
For the Irish ceremony, Stephanie Yates wore a Rosa Clará design purchased from Kathrin and Rouven at The White Ivy Bridal Boutique in Kenmare. The groom’s suit was bought in Malaysia, while the best man and groomsman secured their suits from Morley’s on Grand Parade in Cork. The flowergirls wore outfits from Next, and the pageboy’s attire came from The Baby Boutique on Castle St. For the Malaysian celebration, the bride wore an Indian-style dress custom-made by Lashkaraa in India, and the groom wore an Indian suit from Penang, complemented by Indian-style bridesmaid dresses also sourced from Lashkaraa. Photography for the Irish event was handled by Dermot Sullivan, with videography by Johnson Charles and Richie D’Souza of RJ Creatives, and music provided by The Aristocrats. In Penang, Bryan Chew at O Hara Floris created a custom floral backdrop, and Light Feather Studios captured the photography and video.
Did You Know?
Frequently Asked Questions
Where did Stephanie Yates and Samuel Joseph Dairiam meet?
The couple met in May 2020 at Mercy University Hospital during covid.
Where was the couple’s engagement proposal?
Samuel Joseph Dairiam proposed on July 27, 2023, at Villa Cimbrone in Ravello along Italy’s Amalfi Coast.
Where were the wedding ceremonies held?
The couple held their first wedding ceremony at Our Lady Crowned Church in Mayfield, Cork, on May 15, followed by a second blessing and reception on June 27 at the Eastern and Oriental Hotel in Penang, Malaysia.
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