MEET CIARA
FOUNDER & DIRECTOR
Welcome to OHARA.
My journey here began with a very personal experience: designing our own wedding. I became immersed in every aspect of the creative process, an experience that would ultimately inspire me to take my longstanding love of bringing people together in a new direction.
It was an unforgettable three-day celebration, but what stayed with me most was the joy of watching the people we loved enjoying beautiful food, sensational music and an electric atmosphere in a spectacular setting.
Our wedding planner, Klaus, told me that our wedding should be like a story. It was exactly that, and his words have stayed with me ever since.
Before founding OHARA, I spent over twenty years building trusted relationships in the corporate world, initially in procurement, then fifteen years in executive search, partnering with senior leaders across Europe and the United States. That experience shaped how I work today: listening carefully, understanding what matters most to my clients and delivering with calmness, professionalism and meticulous attention to detail.
Alongside my corporate career, I spent years immersed in music, events and hospitality, DJing and creating celebrations across Cork, London, Ibiza, Barcelona and Los Angeles. These experiences allowed me to develop an appreciation for atmosphere, music and guest experience.
On returning to Ireland from the United States eight years ago, I met my husband and we now live in our hometown of Cork with our two daughters. Having spent more than half of my adult life living overseas, I see Ireland a little differently. It has given me a whole new appreciation for how special this country is and why so many people choose to celebrate here. It also means I understand the expectations of international clients and the level of service they value.
I have never followed trends but have an instinctive eye for style and a genuine passion for bringing each client’s vision to life. I have always believed that doing exceptional work is the best way to build lasting relationships. This belief has guided my career and sits at the heart of OHARA today.
For years, work has been my biggest passion (my husband would probably agree). But outside of OHARA, I love being a mum, 80’s music, vintage shopping, travelling and never say no to a good night out.
Thank you for taking the time to read my story. I would love to hear yours.
HOW WE WORK
Discover. Design. Plan. Deliver.
01 - Discover
We begin with a conversation, either in person or by video. I would like to get to know you, understand what you are planning and hear what your ideal wedding or celebration looks and feels like. I will tell you about OHARA and how we work. I will then prepare a proposal reflecting what we have discussed.
02 - Design
Once we begin working together, I will take a full brief and develop the concept for your wedding or celebration. From there, I will bring the vision into focus through a presentation outlining a carefully curated venue shortlist, the creative direction, supplier ideas, estimated costs and the key project milestones that will guide the planning process.
03 - Plan
With the direction agreed, I create a clear plan and manage every element required to bring it to life. From budget tracking, timelines and supplier management to logistics, scheduled update calls and ongoing decisions, I keep the planning on track and every moving part carefully coordinated.
