Couples queue to say ‘I do’ at Croke Park

CROKE PARK are receiving a growing number of enquiries to host wedding ceremonies and receptions in 2010. Since legislation change to allow people tie the knot in public areas, GAA headquarters has been inundated with calls and requests from couples seeking a big day with a difference.

Julie Manahan, Croke Park’s marketing manager, admitted it is a welcome development in challenging economic times.

However she stressed that despite the downturn, 2009 was “exceptionally busy” while the stadium has “significant business on the books” for the new year.

She said: “Last year a couple who were avid Dublin fans had their wedding in the players lounge.

“Once you have an event such as that, people starting associating you with it. Since then we have received an amount of enquiries from people wanting to have their wedding – and their reception – here at Croke Park.

“Maybe because of the economic situation people are more cost conscious and are shopping around.

“We are working on refining our offering, making it accessible to all. Because of the facilities we have, and the hotel alongside, non-GAA fans are looking at the stadium as a venue.

“We have many dates already for next year and expect more and more.”

Manahan also reports that interest in corporate facilities still remains quite high despite the opening of the Aviva Stadium later next year.

“There is a lot of take up (in corporate and premium seats) as these will be the last Six Nations games at Croke Park. Of course the standing of rugby at the moment after the Grand Slam means added interest next year.

“But 2009 was exceptionally busy. Our museum figures were up and while there was an expected fall off in the conference centre side we’re lucky to have a lot of repeat business. Like every other venue we are continuing to look at our offerings and are very confident we are value for money.

“We have significant business on the books for next year. For example we are undertaking a major refurbishment of our museum which will make it more attractive to visitors.”