No more blues as Mary marries Bonadio

There was no shortage of wedding singers at the nuptials of Mary Coughlan and long-time partner Frank Bonadio yesterday.

There was no shortage of wedding singers at the nuptials of Mary Coughlan and long-time partner Frank Bonadio yesterday.

As the acclaimed Irish blues singer emerged beaming from the register office in Wicklow, replendent in a beaded medieval-style gown, she replied "of course" when asked would she be singing at her own reception.

Among the small group of close friends of the couple who arrived at 2.30 p.m. to witness the marriage was film-maker Neil Jordan and his family. The two young children of the newlyweds, Clare (10) and Cian (5), were also in attendance.

The reception was held later at Glendalough House, in Anamoe, Co Wicklow, the former home of Erskine Childers set on 1,200 acres of water gardens. Michael Collins was a regular visitor at one time and the room where he used to sleep is one of many quirky features of the Georgian house.

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Yesterday, a huge marquee, decorated with ivy and hung with opulent chandeliers, was set up on the front lawn.

Continuing the medieval theme, the wedding banquet included two whole pigs roasted on a spit and platters of wild salmon.

The guest list was bursting with singers who were expected to do a turn at the celebrations last night.

Among those invited were Belfast crooner Brian Kennedy, Ronnie Drew of the Dubliners, singer Maria Doyle Kennedy and 1960s pop star Donavan.