Former Westmeath’s James Dolan and fiancée Kelly tie the knot

 Former Westmeath’s James Dolan and his fiancée, former Westmeath GAA player Kelly Boyce Jordan’s wedding could not have been any more perfect for the couple, who described it as simply magical. 

Following his retirement from intercounty football in June 2024, James and Kelly have been getting ready for one of the biggest events in their lives, with friends and family there to celebrate.

And of course we can’t forget James’ teammates and club members who all turned out to support them. 

The ceremony took place at St Michael’s Church Sonna in Westmeath, a small, intimate church and then on to the beautiful Clonabreany house in Meath. 

Chatting to EVOKE  Kelly spoke about a very special evening before the wedding. 

 ‘I actually had an amazing wedding eve with my girls, very emotional reading intimate letters and cards from my closest and then on the day I literally was so calm and collected that I enjoyed every little minute of my day.

Looking back she said  ‘My favourite part was waiting outside the church to walk up the aisle, seeing my friends and family and ironically this was the part I was so scared of. James cried on the aisle walk which was very special, his speech was so heartfelt, I’ll cherish those words forever.’

Kelly’s dress was from Love Ellie in Cavan. She bought the dress but added the sleeves and over skirt which she said ‘Is a perfect expression of myself, such a ‘’me” moment. I love fashion and style. I only had the over skirt for church and wore my sleeves until after my first dance. I’m endlessly grateful to my incredible dressmaker, Adrianna Mitchell of Nadúr in Navan, for turning my dream into reality.’ 

Giving us an insight into what the ceremony was like, she said, ‘Our priest made the ceremony so gorgeous and Stephanie Healy, our singer was amazing, along with the gorgeous violin.’

Laughing, she said ‘All went to plan. I was fashionably late, which is very me, my friends will know this.’

Just before heading to the reception, the newly wedded couple, along with their family and bridal party, went to one of the local pubs, Murtagh’s for a quick drink and some candid vintage photos, and then to Clonabreany.

After the meal and speeches, the couple and their guests danced until the early hours of the morning. 

Congratulations, James and Kelly!