Medical scientist Stephanie Yates and emergency department doctor Samuel Joseph Dairiam celebrated their marriage across two continents, hosting an Irish ceremony on May 15 before holding a second blessing in Malaysia on June 27. The couple, who live in Cork, originally met in May 2020 during the COVID-19 pandemic at Mercy University Hospital, where they both worked.
An Italian Engagement and an Irish Ceremony
Following a three-year relationship, Sam proposed on July 27, 2023, at Villa Cimbrone in Ravello during a trip to Italy’s Amalfi Coast for his birthday, as recounted by Steph. The couple officially exchanged vows in Ireland on May 15 at Our Lady Crowned Church in Mayfield, with a nuptial Mass led by Fr Charles Kiely.
Music during the ceremony was provided by harpist Carys Ann Evans. Reflecting on the morning, Steph stated she felt completely happy and free of nerves, while noting that Sam had taken a shot of Jameson to calm his own pre-ceremony jitters. Following the church service, the newlyweds were transported to their reception at Innishannon House Hotel in a Jaguar MK2 supplied by Cork Wedding Cars.
Wedding Party and International Guests
The wedding drew guests from around the globe. “So many people travelled from all over the world to celebrate with us; this made us feel so loved. We were like the United Nations,” Steph said.
The bridal party included maids of honour Kimona Daniel Bourne and Jaimee Deschamps, alongside best man Marvin De Jesus and groomsman Abhishek Sharma. Flower girls Kayniah Bourne and Millie Thomas and pageboy Khaz Bourne rounded out the wedding party. Speeches and toasts were delivered by the bride’s mother, Christine Yates, and the groom’s father, Felix Dairiam. The ceremony also honored the memories of the bride’s late father, Jim Yates, and the groom’s late mother, Judith Dairiam.
For her attire, the bride wore a Rosa Clará gown purchased from The White Ivy Bridal Boutique in Kenmare, noting it was the only bridal shop she visited. Sam’s suit was purchased in Malaysia, while the best man and groomsman wore suits from Morley’s on Grand Parade in Cork. Flower girl dresses came from Next, the pageboy outfit from The Baby Boutique on Castle Street, and Indian-style bridesmaid dresses were sourced from Lashkaraa in India.
Photography for the Irish celebration was handled by Dermot Sullivan, with videography by Johnson Charles and Richie D’Souza of RJ Creatives. Music for the reception was performed by The Aristocrats.
Second Blessing in Penang
On June 27, the couple marked their union with a second celebration in Malaysia, hosting a blessing and reception at the Eastern and Oriental Hotel in Penang. The event incorporated Indian cultural traditions reflecting Sam’s heritage.
For the Malaysian celebration, Steph wore an Indian-style dress custom-made by Lashkaraa, while Sam wore an Indian suit from Penang. Floral arrangements featured a custom-built backdrop designed by Bryan Chew at O Hara Floris, and photography and videography were handled by Light Feather Studios.
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