The population of Fethard, Co Tipperary, was doubled on Saturday evening when around 1,000 guests attended the wedding of Ms Katie Magnier, daughter of bloodstock businessman Mr John Magnier, and local trainer Mr David Wachman.
After the ceremony, held in the Augustinian Abbey in Fethard, Rod Stewart entertained the guests at the celebrations at Mr Magnier's nearby Coolmore Stud.
The day started well for the Magnier family when unbeaten colt Van Nistelrooy romped to victory in the 2.50 at the Curragh, where the David Wachman-trained King's Mountain acted as pacemaker. It is believed that the groom was at the Co Kildare venue to see the race before being flown by helicopter to Co Tipperary.
The 24-year-old bride arrived on her father's arm just five minutes late for the 6 p.m. Mass celebrated by Fethard parish priest Father Tom Breen. She wore a Ralph Lauren gown. Her mother, Ms Sue Magnier, wore an outfit by John Galliano, and the nine bridesmaids wore Vera Wang creations.
Andrew Lloyd Webber, Mr J.P. McManus and Mr Dermot Desmond attended the church service, along with Mr Noel Davern TD and Mr Tom Hayes TD. Although he was invited, the Taoiseach, Mr Ahern, is believed not to have attended, while the Tánaiste, Ms Harney, was unable to do so as she was on holidays.
A veritable Who's Who in the racing world attended the evening celebrations, including jockeys Mr Frankie Dettori and Mr Jason Titley along with trainers Mr Aidan O'Brien and Mr M.F. Morris.
Also present was Manchester United manager Sir Alex Ferguson, who is a successful racehorse owner with close ties to the bride's father.