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There was a spot of good news for our own Kieran Healy this week as his popular band Truly Diverse scooped a prestigious gong at the inaugural Brides of Kerry Industry Awards.

The lavish event, which took place at the Ballyroe Heights Hotel, was organised to celebrate all the amazing people who make that special day even more special.

As well as the cream of the crop of the Kerry wedding industry, superstar fashion designer and Ballyheigue native Don O’Neill and husband Pascal Guillermie flew in from New York to be in attendance on the night.

As guests of honour they were serenaded by Killarney contralto Grace Foley with a spine-tingling rendition of Nella Fantasia and a heartbreaking version of Kieran Goss’s Reasons to Leave.

Killarney was well-represented on the night with The Trant sisters from Aghadoe picking up Best Wedding Ceremony Musicians, Best Wedding Band went to popular choice Truly Diverse while the legend that is Pat O’Neill picked up Wedding Hair Stylist of the Year.

Killarney hotels were also represented well with The Heights Hotel, Killarney picking up Bridal Suite of the Year, The Brehon picking up Wedding Spa of the Year and the Killarney Oaks picking up Best Family Owned Venue of the Year. Honeymoon Specialist of the Year went to Torc Travel while Grace Foley picked up a 5 Star Award.

Kerry Wedding Venue of the Year was jointly shared between The Brehon and Ballygarry House Hotel. All in all, the awards night was a huge success with organisers, guests and award winners thoroughly enjoying the night. Everyone is already looking forward to next year’s event.