Joe Lynam

Breakfast Business with Enterprise Ireland on Newstalk.

Breakfast Business with Enterprise Ireland on Newstalk.

Welcome back to Breakfast Business with Susan Hayes Culleton.

Now, Fernhill House, Hotel and Gardens in Clannachilty has been awarded the prestigious Best Wedding Venue Prize at the International Historic Hotels of Europe Awards.

And the West Cork Hotel is celebrating 200 years in business next year.

Joining us now is Michael O'Neill, Manager and Part Proprietor of Fernhill House, Hotel and Gardens.

Good morning, Michael.

Now, Michael, I have to tell you, I know your part of the world well, as my dad grew up in Timaleague, only over the road from you.

But for our listeners who may not be as familiar, what's really special about West Cork hospitality?

And in 2024, there were 19,680 wedding ceremonies.

What trends are you seeing in weddings today, Michael?

And what mistake do you see brides or grooms making all the time?

And I'll give you the one from my own wedding is that we didn't video it.

It's always been our regret that we should have videoed it.

But anyway, we can't do much about that now.

But what mistake do you see happening?

And if we turn to the business of weddings from your own perspective, then where does the margin really lie?

Is it in the food or the bar bill or the accommodation?

And as you look into 2026 you've mentioned the challenges where is the opportunity Michael?

What is it that excites you about the year ahead?