1. Where are you from? Tell us a bit about your background.
I'm from the townland of Lurgancanty, in the parish of Burren, near Warrenpoint. I have trained as a veterinary nurse and worked in Birmingham, UK, Perth and Melbourne, Australia and Auckland, New Zealand. While in these destinations, I worked in all sorts of roles, from veterinary nursing to offices to hospitality and everything in between. I am self-taught in hospitality and have worked since the age of 14. In more recent times, I have worked in The Slieve Donard Resort and Spa in Newcastle Co. Down, as well as Castle Leslie Estate in Glaslough, Co. Monaghan.
2. What exactly does your position at Killeavy Castle Estate entail?
Here at the wonderful Killeavy Castle Estate, I hold the Conference and Banqueting Manager position. As Conference and Banqueting Manager, I manage all types of events, from business meetings to gala dinners and weddings, ensuring our guests have a world-class experience, having met their expectations and exceeded them. On the estate, we manage 100+ weddings per year, and, along with my team, we ensure our wedding couples and their guests create precious memories in this area of outstanding natural beauty that lasts a lifetime.
3. What do you enjoy the most about your job?
It is an honour to witness our guests' visions and dreams being brought to life. From a unique perspective, I witness so many special moments being made. These can be anything from a clasp of hands to a tear shed together to a warm embrace.
4. What do you love most about Killeavy Castle Estate?
Killeavy Castle Estate is an extraordinary place. Its ethos is to get closer to what is important. It is for guests to get out, explore, and get close to the great outdoors. For us as staff, it is about coming together as a 'Family Unit' to support each other and deliver outstanding customer service.
5. What is an interesting fact about you?
I am a part-time farmer and an award-winning baker, and I've been in a few country music videos! I usually say I am not your run-of-the-mill manager.