Wedding news
SHANE FILAN AND GILLIAN WALSH (17th November 2004) Thanks to AliceShane filan chose December 28th of last year for his festive winter wedding to long-term sweetheart Gillian Walsh, because the Christmas period has special meaning for the Westlife singer, as he revealed to OK!, "Because I proposed to Gillian on Christmas day it was an idea to get married at the same time of year."
The couple married at the 13th century Ballintuber Abbey in County Mayo, Ireland, and celebrated at the beautiful Ashford Castle. Gillian arrived at the cathedral in a festive Cinderella-style white stagecoach, decked with red flowers and green foliage to echo the time of year. The bride looked beautiful in a strapless gown, and the groom, who plumped for a classic ivory suit, said afterwards: "Gillian felt like a princess and looked like one too."
In keeping with the Christmas theme, Ashford Castle was decked in coloured lights, and guests were treated to a hearty 5-course meal.
From: OK Magazine
Shane & Gillian's hospice figure must wait (12th January)
It was certainly an unforgettable day for the happy couple, but the wedding of Shane Filan and Gillian Walsh will be memorable for the staff and patients of the North West Hospice too.
In an honourable gesture which echoed Niall Quinn giving his testimonial match funds to two children's hospitals, Shane and Gillian asked for no presents for their extravagant wedding on December 28.
Instead they asked guests to donate money to the North West Hospice and while a final figure is still some three weeks away, speculation in the national press is already rife.
Wedding guests were given two options, to either donate money in advance of the wedding via the Hospice's bank account (bank details were included on the invitation).
The guest could otherwise bring their donation on the day, as many did, and have it collected during the evening celebrations.
It is expected that the vast majority, if not all of the 380 invited guests donated some money to the Hospice, but a final figure will probably not be revealed until Shane and Gillian return from their honeymoon in Hawaii at the end of this month.
The couple are expected to make a formal presentation to the Hospice themselves.
Kerry would have married Gillian (8th January) (thanks to GillianFan)
"Shane's wedding was absolutely fabulous. Gillian looked phenomenal - stunning. I would have married her!
The reception was just as fantastic and myself and Bryan were dancing all night along with the likes of Bertie and Louis. We didn't hit the sack until 9:30am!
Maybe that's why I can't remember much of the reception. But in all honesty I think Shane and Gillian are all set to make fantastic parents - but I've warned them if they have a boy before Bryan and I then our friendship is over!"
Fireworks, lasers, romantic serenade as pop couple wed (6th January)
By Harry Keaney
WITH fireworks, lasers and a romantic serenade, Shane Filan and Gillian Walsh tied the knot in style with a fairytale wedding on Sunday afternoon last week before 380 guests in a moving and at times emotional ceremony in picturesque Ballintubber Abbey, Co. Mayo.
The weather may have snapped suddenly colder but love certainly warmed the chilly air, none more so than during the reception in nearby Ashford Castle when Westlife superstar Shane serenaded his new wife with the chorus of "Amazed" by Lone Star, a performance that left hardly a dry eye in the house and a standing ovation from all.
And while the bride and groom wore white, hundreds of teenage fans had earlier turned blue amid the plunging temperatures as they thronged the blustery medieval churchyard eager to catch a glimpse of Gillian as she made her regal arrival in a white horse-drawn carriage and, afterwards, as the newly weds emerged from the church to acknowledge the well-wishes of the waiting crowd.
Unlike the frenzied security that surrounded the wedding in France last summer of Westlife member Nicky Byrne to Georgina Ahern, daughter of the Taoiseach, Shane and Gillian's big day was a more relaxed and friendly affair, with dozens of wedding umbrellas, and even hot drinks, available for the media.
And in what was a very personal touch, the bride and groom asked their guests not to send wedding presents but to make a donation instead to North West Hospice, a gesture that's expected to boost its bank account during the days and weeks to come.
The guests, among them the Taoiseach and his wife, Miriam, as well as Ronan Keating, Louis Walsh, and Kian Egan's girlfriend, "Hollyoaks" actress Jodie Albert, attended the ceremony, which was followed by the lavish reception in Ashford Castle. Neighbours and friends of both families were also present. Irish international goalkeeper Shay Given flew in for the occasion following Newcastle United's 1-0 premiership loss to Blackburn at St. James's Park.
Shane, a native of Castle Street, Sligo, where his parents Peter and Mae Filan ran the Carlton Cafe for many years, and Gillian, daughter of Michael and Rosaleen Walsh, from Lyndale Estate, have been together since their teens when they both appeared in various Sligo Fun Company productions in the Hawkswell Theatre.
But it was not until they were on holidays last year in Dubai that Shane finally popped the question.
Following the marriage ceremony, led by Fr. Frank Fahey and Fr. Dominick Gillooly, P.P., St. Anne's, Shane described it all as a dream come true. "I feel like the luckiest guy in the world and everything went according to plan," he told journalists afterwards. "It was great to go out there and wave to the fans and also see all our friends and family enjoying our big day."
Dressed in a cream suit, Shane arrived in the back of a gleaming Bentley accompanied by his bestman, his brother Finbarr, and groomsmen Brian Heraghty, Keith Moran, Kian Egan, Mark Feehily.
As he stepped out, with the waiting fans chanting, "Shane, Shane," he turned and waved before walking inside to the church.
Twenty-three minutes later, just after 2:20 p.m., his bride arrived in the elegant horse-drawn carriage. She disembarked onto a candle-lit driveway with her father, Michael, who gave her away.
Four silver BMWs carried the bride's five bridesmaids, her sister Joanna Walsh, and longtime friends Helena Heraghty, Muireann Eakins, Fiona Keogh and Nicola Callaghan.
The bride's wedding dress was an off-white consisting of a sweetheart bodice and full length taffeta skirt. A simple veil hung from the back of her head.
Gillian's chief bridesmaid was her sister Joanna, wearing a strapless embroidered white dress and veil. She also designed the jewellery for the bridal party.
The flowergirls was Kianna Egan while Shane's young nephew Stephen Ryan was pageboy. The altar server was Riadh Egan.
The readers were Dessie Sweeney and Yvonne Filan. Prayers of the Faithful were read by Westlife stars Nicky Byrne, Bryan McFadden, as well as by Mairead Filan, Blathnaid Eakins, Killian Filan and Denise Filan.
Amid a candlelight and bouquet bedecked scene, the couple exchanged vows and rings, and lit a single wedding candle as a sign of their unity.
There then followed an outburst of applause from the congregation.
The mothers of the bride and groom, Rosaleen Walsh and Mae Filan, carried the offertory gifts to the alter.
After communion, the reflection were the lines by W. B. Yeats, "He wishes for the Cloths of Heaven," which concludes, "But, I being poor, have only dreams; I have spread my dreams under your feet; Tread softly because you tread my dreams,"
Singers during the ceremony included Sandra Gillen from Rathedmond and the Conway Sisters, who added a seasonal touch with a rendition of "Silent Night" in Irish.
Afterwards, the couple emerged through a side door to pose, briefly, for media photographers and fans. And, on perfect cue, they kissed as a barrage of cameras clicked and whirred to record the moment before they returned inside for the traditional walk down the aisle.
Afterwards, they departed in the back of 7-series BMW with a number plate bearing the names 'Shane and Gillian'.
Most of the guests travelled by coach to Ashford Castle where a massive marquee had been erected by the strobe-lit lakeside for the festivities, beneath a black ceiling sparkling with star-shaped lights.
Guests, ensconced in gold coloured seating, dined on warm country salad followed by vegetable soup, beef or salmon and a selection of desserts.
At the top table sat the beaming bride and groom, beside which stood a five-foot high ice sculpture of two love hearts on a stand bedecked with roses, also set in ice, with "Shane and Gillian" emblazoned across.
With the freezing temperatures outside and warmth of the occasion being celebrated, it was a symbol which perfectly captured the ambience of the moment.
And if emotions at times ran deep during the church ceremony, it was to be repeated again during the meal at Ashford Castle, particularly during touching speeches from Shane's brother and bestman Finbarr; their father, Peter; from proud father of the bride Michael Walsh and from the groom himself, who serenaded his new wife, with the chorus of "Amazed" by Lone Star, a performance that was acknowledged with a standing ovation from delighted guests, many of them with tears of joy welling in their eyes.
But there was even more highlights to come, among them an impressive laser and fireworks display reflecting in the nearby lake and lighting up the wintry Mayo night sky.
The caramel and chocolate wedding cake stretched for almost two yards along the top table, and comprised of miniature replicas of the bride and groom and their top table guests.
As a memento of the occasion, each of the guests was presented with a personalised CD of Christmas songs entitled "Shane and Gillian's Wedding Day."
Entertainment continued until dawn, with music by Dublin band "The Hits Collection" and local disc jockey Scruffy Duffy keeping the music going.
The newly-weds will go on honeymoon to Hawaii, after which they will return to Sligo where they are completing work on their new home at Carraroe.
Then, it's back to work as Westlife prepares for its massive sellout Turnaround tour which starts in Belfast in April.
It’s the Wedding of 2003 (6th January) (thanks to Katie4ShNicky on the official boards)
Shane Filan and Gillian Walsh were the subject of national and international media attention when they wed on Sunday.
The words to Westlifes hit song Flying Without Wings would have summed up Shane Filans wedding day last Sunday. Coincidentally the song is Shane's favourite.
When he looked back to see his long term girlfriend Gillian Walsh walk up the aisle, ready to become his wife, the words of this song could have described this moment beautifully. "Everybody's looking for that something, one thing that makes it all complete.” Shane had sung these words a million times. But I bet if you asked him to sing them last Sunday at 2.30pm in Ballintubber Abbey, he would have choked. Such was the emotion of the whole day.
Gillian looked amazing in a white stapless dress with an embroidered bodice. She arrived in a horse drawn carriage, traditionally 20 minutes late. Shane didn’t look bad either! He arrived in a black Bentley accompanied by his best man, older brother Finbarr. He walked up the aisle with his mum and dad, Mae and Peter Filan. Groomsmen Mark Feehily and Kian Egan followed.
Gillian was led up the aisle by her chief bridesmaid Joanna Walsh. Candles lit up the church which was surrounded by festive floral arrangements.
The sevice was led by Fr Dominic Gillooley and Fr Frank Fahey. Prayers of the faithful were read by Shanes bandmate's Nicky Byrne and Bryan McFadden.
Outside a keen watch was kept on a black cloak that covered the side door of the church. This was closely watched by the fans and media, who had gathered there since early morning. As the cloak came down, it revealed the sight that broke the hearts of hundreds of fans – Shane and Gillian (both 24) kissing as a newly married couple.
The two put together couldn’t have looked any happier. Shane's life, as the song goes, had become complete. As he said himself many times: "Marrying Gillian is like having all our number ones in one go.”
Other guests at the ceremony included Taoiseach Bertie Ahern, his wife Miriam and their daughter Cecelia. The Taoiseach said: "They are a beautiful couple and it's been a beautiful day.” Other guests included Kian Egan's girlfriend Jodi Albert, Ronan Keating and his wife Yvonne. Ronan said: "You could feel the warmth inside the church. The couple really love each other.”
Westlife's manager Louis Walsh was seen chatting to Sligo girl group the Conway Sisters after the ceremony. The couple were driven away in a car with their names, Shane & Gillian, engraved on the number plate. The 380 guests followed them to a lavish reception in Ashford Castle.
The couple now head off on their honeymoon to Hawaii.
"When you’ve found that special thing. You're flying without wings.” So sings Shane next time with a glint in his eye.
Shane breaks loads of fans' hearts (2nd January) (Thanks to Bonnie for translating this! Don't use without crediting her!)
Following in Bryan and Nicky's footsteps, there is one more member from Westlife got married and found his "Mandy" for the rest of his life.
It's not easy for the lead-singer Shane to spare his time from the hectic promotion schedule to make his dream come true. Finally, he tied the knot with Gillian Walsh and the newly-wed couple hit the headlines on all the newspapers in the UK and Ireland.
There were over 350 guests to attend their wonderful Irish wedding ceremony and hundreds of fans were appealed to see the couple.
The castle is the same place where Pierce Brosnan wed two years ago. It was the oldest church in Ireland built over 800 years ago.
Westlife is a very successful boyband this year. Besides their single "Mandy" and the current album "Turnaround" got No.1, "Mandy" was voted as "Record of the Year" and the album "Turnaround" is one of the best-selling albums in Taiwan. It proved that Westlife still keep the throne of singing ballads.
Owing to overload work and tour concerts, Westlife seldom have time for a rest. This year, the lads have their own Christmas holidays to stay with their families. Bryan not only performed for children in a hospital, but also met his little fan - a seven-year-old boy who suffered from cancer. Bryan became Santa Claus this Christmas. However, the happiest event that made a lot of fans jealous was Shane and Gillian's wedding in Ireland on 28th December. Reuters, BBC and Sky News have reported the fantastic wedding. Shane and Gillian knew each other when they performed a musical in college. Gillian is Kian's cousin. Shane and Gillian started dating in 2000. They hid their relationship from public since Shane was a member in a pop boyband.
Last Christmas, Shane proposed to Gillian in a beach full of stars over the sky. Then, they have a love commiment with each other. After one year, they got married because they both wanted to have a Christmas wedding. Now, Shane is the third lad in Westlife who got married. Everyone felt the wedding warm although it was chilly and raining in Ireland that day.
350 guests presented the wedding and hundreds of fans witnessed the couple's happiness outside the church. Apart from Shane's bandmembers, his ex-manager, Ronan Keating also appeared in the ceremony. Shane and Gillian's wedding was held in Ballintubber Abbey which was built in 1216. The most special thing was that unlike Nicky's wedding, Nicky sold his photos to the magazine "Hello". Shane would like to share his happiness with his relatives, friends and fans. There was no limitation for public to take photos but he rejected the offers from celebrity magazines. He even welcomed all his relatives' requests to take photos with him.
Then, they celebrated their wedding in Ashford Castle which the movie "The Quiet Manwas" was filmed two years ago and many celebrities used to be the castle's guests. Moreover, the coincidence was the actor, Pierce Brosnan, and TV journalist, Keely Shaye Smith chose the same abbey and castle to have their weddings as Shane. After the wedding, Shane and Gillian headed for Hawaii for their honeymoon. Westlife are taking a break in the short period.
Stars come out for Filan wedding! (2nd January)
The people of Ballintubber and Cong could just get used to all this glam and glitz. Following in the footsteps of Pierse Brosnan, the main man in Ireland's biggest pop band, Shane Filan wed his childhood sweetheart, Gillian Walsh, in Ballintubber Abbey on Sunday last.
The Taoiseach and the other members of Westlife, together with other important faces in Irish music, were greeted by hordes of adoring females fans, who braved the cold for a look at their heroes.
Shane got a taste for the historic surroundings of Ballintubber's ancient abbey when his brother Liam got married there last year and plans for his own wedding have been in train for well over a year. The Sligo couple decided against a secret marriage where exclusive rights would be sold for a huge sum of money and instead gave a picture to the photographers waiting when they stood at the side door of the Abbey after the ceremony. And in a heartfelt gesture, the Filans asked the guests not to send wedding presents but instead make a donation to the North West Hospice in Sligo.
Both the Walsh and Filan families have strong Mayo connections. Shane's mother Mae is a native of Kiltimagh where she is a member of the McNicholas family. Her brother is still resident at the family home in Ballyglass. Gillian's father Michael is a native of Corroy, Ballina where he grew up as son of Joe and Nelly Walsh from Derrygulliane.
Around 400 fans gathered patiently outside Ballintubber Abbey from early Sunday morning, where security was more informal than previous high profile weddings. All 380 guests were checked off a private list as they showed up before the groom arrived stylishly in a 7 series BMW accompanied by his brother Finbarr.
Gillian arrived less than a half an hour later in a beautiful white horse drawn carriage which had transported her from the nearby Celtic Furrow. The ceremony was celebrated by Fr. Dominic Gilhooley and local curate Fr. Frank Fahey. Most of the guests then travelled by coach to a lavish reception at Ashford Castle, where the guests feasted on warm country salad, followed by vegetable soup, beef or salmon and a selection of desserts.
One of Filan's Westlife colleagues also popped into the nightclub at the Valkenburg Hotel in Ballinrobe on Saturday night. Bryan McFadden was among the hundreds of people that turned up at the popular nightspot and, in the absence of a VIP room, mingled freely with locals. "It was unbelievable to see one of the Westlife lads in the Valk," said an eyewitness. "He was just sitting there, chatting to people and seemed very down to earth. Near the end of the night he hopped into the DJ box and started 'DJ-ing' for about half an hour. Everyone was very impressed and it was a great coup for Dick and Barry Langan."
There was also a Ballinrobe connection with the bride on her big day as Harriet Costello, of Sean Costello Hair Design, styled Gillian Walsh's hair ahead of the ceremony at Ballintubber Abbey while Karen Duffy from Alter Ego Hair Salon of Westport took care of the hairstyles of some of the females members of the Filan family. All in all, it was another glittering occasion which showcased the county's ability to host even the biggest stars.
Shane's story (1st January) (Huge thanks to Byrne Dirty Hippy - on the official boards)
"I always knew my wedding day would be special but I never expected it to be so magical and full of love and emotion.
Gillian kept me waiting a while at the altar but that added to the excitement and the traditional style of the service.
She had told me she would arrive 15 minutes late but, in the end, she was actually 25 minutes. Those extra 10 minutes were full of nerves,excitement and magic. I was actually glad she was a bit late because it built the excitement, just like you see at all the best weddings.
I knew she had arrived when I heard the screams from the fans outside. But I didn't want to look around until she was stood beside me.
After I heard the abbey doors opening, I could see the expression of delight on the people's faces in front of me as she walked down the aisle.
I knew because of that she must have been looking incredible.
At the very last minute, when she was right beside me, by brother and best man Finbarr gave me a nudge in the side. When I turned around there was the love of my life looking like a million dollars.
I had no idea what the dress was going to be like and I didnt even know she was going to wear a veil.
Thankfully I had seen enough romantic movies to know what to do, lift the veil and give her a kiss on the cheek.
The abbey was the finest church I ever been inside in all my life, There were 2,000 candles lit in total which made it look so magical.
Fr. Dominic Gilhooley spoke so well throughout the mass, I wanted to thank him especially. He was so kind with his words to us, so cool and calm throughout the service. It put both Gillian and I at ease.
The moment when we exchanged rings was the most amazing experience of my life. I started to cry and got very emotional. It was the moment I had been waiting for all my life and I couldn't take it all in. The feeling of love I had for Gillian at that moment was indescribable.
The minute we got married, we said "Oh my God, we're married." We keep saying things to each other like "You are my wife " and she would whisper back "You are my husband". We will always be like kids with each other till the day we die.
I got a special wedding gift for Gillian which I arranged to have hidden under her pillow the night before the wedding.
I bought her a diamond Franck Muller watch from Paul Sheeran jewellers in Dublin. Initially we had arranaged to have the watch for the day but I knew it would be a great surprise for Gillian if it was her watch for ever.
When we got out of the abbey the fans were everywhere. I can honestly say the day would not have been as good for me without all the fans there and I felt honoured they all turned up.
The reception was incredible. The fireworks display was unbelievable. I expected it to last three or four minutes and it went on for 20. It was like something you'd see in Disney World.
I want to especially thank Joanne Byrne from Presence PR. She did a stunning job. It was the first wedding she had panned and she made all our dreams come true. We gave her the ideas but she made them happen, and more.
My brother and best man Finbarr was also incredible. I want to thank him because he was there beside me every second of the way and kept everything under control.
And our wedding DJ Terry Duffy kept everyone dancing until 6am, he was a legend and I've been a big fan of his for a year now since Gillian introduced me to him. Paul from Corporate Solutions looked after the lighting for us, which was one hell of a job and he should be thanked too.
We still can't believe it has happened, we woke up in each other's arms yesterday saying, "Was that really real?""
Gillian's story (1st January) (Huge thanks to Byrne Dirty Hippy - on the official boards)
"Although I may have kept Shane waiting for a while I actually managed to leave right on time-at 2pm.
But on the way down to the abbey we encountered some traffic so I had to keep him waiting a little longer. The nerves were running rampantly through my stomach as I waited to arrive at the church on the horse-drawn carriage.
As I walked through the doors I suddenly saw Shane's back. He was dressed in his white jacket and I instantly felt calm and couldn't wait to get down to the altar to see him. It was the best feeling of my life.
The church looked like a dream, like something out of a fairytale. We knew it was going to be covered in candles and ivy but none of us could imagine how stunning it would look on the big day. It was truly breathtaking.
When we left the abbey and were driven towards Ashford Castle in Louis Walsh's Bentley there were amazing scenes. All the locals in the surrounding villages lined the streets and it bonfires in their gardens for us. It was a magical moment. They were cheering and waving at us. The fans deserved to see the big day and we are so grateful for their support.
When we got to Ashford Castle it looked amazing. Shane and I had a room in the tower which was done up with candles, flowers and filled with wedding gifts. We went up to the room for a while before the reception started and one of the first things that caught our eye was a gift from Mark Feehily, It was a huge crate full of countless bottles of Kristal champagne. We couln't believe it.
My bridesmaid got us the most gorgeous gift ever, two crystal engraved champagne glasses which were specially brought over from Australia - they were gorgeous.
We can't thank Ashford Castle enough for what they did for us, especially Monica, who made sure we were treated like royalty. We have never been treated so well. I also want to thank Fiona Todhunter who did a fantastic job with the bridesmaid dresses.
My sister Joanna made all the jewellery for the bridal party. She was also chief bridesmaid she had so much to do and was really incredible.
I, like Shane want to thank Joanne Byrne who made sure the day was a dream come true. She planned and prepared everything and we will be forever grateful to her.
When we finally left the reception at 4.30am we spent half and hour just sitting in our room talking about what an amazing day it had been.
We are the happiest couple alive."
Shane's tears for his princess Bride - By Paul Martin - HUGE thanks to Chelle for this - don't use elsewhere! (31st December)
Newlywed Shane Filan staged the most spectacular wedding party ever held in Ireland in honour of his Beautiful bride Gillian.
He astounded guests with:
- An enormous fireworks display that lit up the sky for miles around
- A laser light show that athed the lake at Ashford Castle in a romantic glow.
- A Gourmet meal prepared by top Chefs
- A personalised CD for everyone as a keepsake of the occasion
- Unlimited champagne and cocktails at an all night free bar, and
- A touching speech which dissolved into tears of love.
I was the only journalist invited to the reception staged in a massive marquee where Shane and Gillians closest friends and family partied the nigh away until 6am.
From huge fireworks displays to a laser light show, nobody was left in any doubt that Sligo lad Shane had stagged a party worthy of his superstar status.
But the biggest moment of the night came when the singer broke down in tears and paid tribute to his new wife. Leaning towards Gillian he said "I just wanted to say that you look like a princess today, seeing you coming down that aisle was the most amazing moment in my life and putting that ring on your finger - I cant describe a love like that" Shane then thrilled the gathering when he performed an impromtu version of Amazed by Lonestar.
Before breaking down in tears,the singer's touching speech left many guests teary-eyed. Just before dinner was served, huge curtains were drawn back to reveal a stunning view of the lake at night.
While the newlyweds, both 24, watched on an array of laser lights placed around the lake began swirling and spinning in in time with a haunting soundtrack.
It was just one of many treats which the couple laid on to celebratethe biggest night of their lives. A luxurious five course meal was served which started with meuille feuille of chicken and mushrooms.
This was followed by cream of roasted vegetables soup with herb croutons and freshly baked bread, next up was a fillet of beef with roasted shallots on truffle oil with a red wine and rosemary jus.
The meal was rounded of with a selection of classic desserts and home-made chocolates iced with Shane and Gillians Initials.
At each place setting there was a personalised cd with the guests name imprinted on it, and a christmas themed caricature of the happy couple.
In keeping with the Christmas theme the Cd included hits like 'Santa Baby' and 'Let It Snow'
Each table was also called after a famous christmas song.
As the laser light show came to an end Shane and Gillian took to the dance floor as they serenaded each other to Dirty Dancing hit (I've Had) The Time Of My Life. Shane then waved his guests to join them and among first to join them was Bertie and his estranged wife Miriam.
Guests were treated to a free bar where bottles of champagne and cocktails flowed all night, Shane's Westlife band mate Bryan Mcfadden was king of the dance floor all night as he strutted his stuff to the live band. His wife Kerry, Westlife's Kian Egan and girlfriend Jodi Albert also partied the night away on the dance floor. Sitting close by was Ronan and his wife Yvonne who described the night as one of the best showbiz weddings ever.
He said "Shane has won much respect for what he has done tonight, it's been a dad's worth night where everyone has had fun because Shane is such a generous, genuine down to earth guy"
At 1am Shane and Gillian led the guests along a walkway to he side of the lake where a spectacular 15 minute firework display lit up the sky.
Shane couldn't hide his delight at how well the celebrations had gone and he told me "It's been a dream come true and it's all passing too quickly, just looking out there at the dance floor and seeing everyone having a great time has made Gillian and I so happy"
By 5am many of the guests were still partying as the champagne flowed.
When Michael Jackson medley came on Shane treated guests to some of his Jacko moves including moonwalking and spinning, and even the band manger Louis Walsh got into the party spirit as he hit the dance floor.
Just before dawn Shane and Gillian retired to the honeymoon suite. Later this week they will jet off to Hawaii for their honeymoon.
All the celebrities agreed it had been a night to remember and Kerry Mcfadden added "This whole thing has left me completely speechless, Shane and Gillian are such a perfect couple"
Westlife star and groomsman Kian Egan added "Shane is such a generous guy and I think everyone tonight has seen what a caring nice guy he really is."
Shane breaks hearts with new Westwife (31st December)
By Dan Collins
WESTLIFE star Shane Filan broke innumerable teenage hearts yesterday when he signed up for the wedding band.
Among the 380 guests attending the lavish reception bash at Ashford Castle was Taoiseach Bertie Ahern and his wife Miriam. Last year, the couple's daughter Georgina married Nicky Byrne in a French chateau with a celebrity magazine paying E850,000 for the photo rights.
"They are a lovely couple," Byrne said of Shane and Gillian Walsh. "I'm really looking forward to having a great party."
Shane arrived, on time, at Ballintubber Abbey, Co Mayo, in a gleaming Bently. His bride was a fashionable 20 minutes late and opted for horse and carriage transport to the church.
After the ceremony the couple posed for photographs, thrilling media and 200 fans who travelled from every part of the country for the showbiz hitch.
"It's not every day you get to attend a ceremony like this in an 800-year-old abbey, it's been a lovely day," said Mr Ahern as the guests milled from the church to the reception.
Guests, including Ronan Keating and Louis Walsh, were asked not to give the couple presents but, if they wished, to make a donation to the North West Hospice.
Shane popped the question while he and Gillian were on holiday together in Dubai last year.
The Westlifer's elder brother Finbar acted as best man. Music at the strictly-behind-closed-doors wedding party scheduled to go on until some time this morning was not provided by chart-topping Westlife.
Instead, Shane was understood to have laid on another band, complete with its own DJ.
The couple are building a sprawling E1.5 million house in Sligo. The house will have seven bedrooms and nine bathrooms, a dining room to seat almost 20 people, a gym, sauna, snooker room and everything else you would expect of a pop star's palace.
The couple's marriage footsteps retraced those of 007 star Pierce Brosnan who choose Ballintubber Abbey and Ashford Castle for his wedding in 2001.
Westlife star Shane ties the knot (31st December)
By Maureen Coleman
WESTLIFE'S Shane Filan was today preparing to jet off on honeymoon to Hawaii after marrying long-term girlfriend Gillian Walsh in a romantic winter wedding.
Sligo-born Shane became the third member of the chart-topping Irish band to tie the knot when he exchanged vows with his childhood sweetheart yesterday.
The pair wed at historic Ballintubber Abbey, but celebrated later in the luxurious lakeside splendour of the nearby Ashford Castle hotel.
Shane popped the question while he and Gillian were on holiday together in Dubai last year.
The Westlifer's elder brother Finbar acted as best man at the ceremony in Ballintubber Abbey, which dates back to the 13th century.
Westlife's Kian Egan and Mark Feehily, who are also from Sligo, acted as groomsmen. More than 350 guests turned out to see the happy couple wed, including Taoiseach Bertie Ahern and wife Miriam, Louis Walsh, and Ronan Keating and wife Yvonne.
The bride shone in a strapless embroidered white dress, while Shane wore a stylish cream suit. The groom endured a nervous half hour wait before Gillian arrived in a white horse-drawn carriage. Her five bridesmaids were driven to the country church in silver BMWs.
After the ceremony, Shane and Gillian posed for photographs in the doorway of the church.
The event marked the first Westlife wedding since last summer's occasion in a French, rather than an Irish village, when Nicky Byrne married Georgina, one of Irish Prime Minister Bertie Ahern's two daughters.
Up to 200 noisy Westlife fans stood in the icy-cold but mainly bright weather outside the Abbey to catch a glimpse of their favourites and cheer them into and out of the church.
Following the nuptial mass the happy couple and their guests journeyed to Ashford Castle, where they partied until 6am this morning.
Shane's speech (very very sweet) (31st December)
"Thanks very much lads for the past five years-five amazing years
It's one of the main reasons I can pay for this today *crowd laughs*
We'll have to do another few albums yet to sort that out.
I wanted to say thank you very much, it's been an unbelievable five years.
It's been a dream and has been a dream life that we always wanted - the five of us. So we haven't done too badly.
And Louis hopefully we'll get them 20 number ones for you as well, we are not too far away, so you never know, but here's to another five anyways! *crowd applauds*
Now, I come to this lovely lady on my left - my wife *crowd cheers*
Gillian, what can I say? We've been going out for six years now and I've loved you for seven, that first year I practically failed my leaving cert *crowd laughs*.
Not to worry about it, Gillian you look like a true princess today, seeing you coming down that aisle was the most amazing moment of my life and putting that ring on your finger *becomes tearful and pauses*..... I can't describe a love like that, I wasn't going to do this.. but it was something I've always wanted to do - I just love you so much...
*He sings amazed by Lonestar*
Every time our eyes meet
This feeling inside me
Is almost more than I can take
Baby when you touch me
I can feel how much you love me
And it just blows me away
I've never been this close to anyone or anything
I can hear your thoughts
I can see your dreams
I don't know how you do what you do
I'm so in love with you
It just keeps getting better
I wanna spend the rest of my life
With you by my side Forever and ever
Every little thing that you do
Baby I'm amazed by you
Hello Magazine (31st December)
Thousands of Westlife fans flocked to County Mayo, Ireland on Sunday as one of the boyband's remaining bachelors Shane Filan tied the knot there with his childhood sweetheart Gillian Walsh.
The happy couple, both 24 years old, said their vows at the 13th-century Ballintubber Abbey with more than 400 guests, including Shane's four bandmates, singer Ronan Keating and Irish Prime Minister Bertie Ahern looking on. Both Shane and Gilian wore head-to-toe winter white, the groom sporting an elegant morning suit and the bride wearing a stunning Vera Wang gown.
Gillian made a glamorous entrance in a horse-drawn carriage while her future hubby, who had walked to the altar with his mum and dad, waited patiently for his bride. And when the millionaire vocalist had her at his side, he whispered: "You look amazing."
"Just looking at Gillian at the altar was the best moment of my life," he told The Mirror. "I was welling up so many times during the service, I feel like the luckiest guy in the world."
After the romantic ceremony, during which Shane's elder brother Finbar acted as best man, the wedding party moved on to one of the country's most exclusive hotels, Ashford Castle, set on a scenic waterfront. The lake was specially lit up with multicoloured lights for the celebrations, which kicked off with a spectacular fireworks display followed by a champagne reception and five-course banquet. "It was a grand affair," said one guest.
Shane, who is now off on a Hawaiian honeymoon with his new wife, is the third Westlife hunk to get hitched. Bryan McFadden wed Kerry Katona two years ago, and Nicky Byrne married Georgina Ahern, the Irish PM's daughter, earlier in 2003.
Shane & Gillian marry in Mayo... (30th December)
Westlife singer Shane Filan Wed his childhood sweetheart Gillian Walsh yesterday in a romantic ceremony in the 800 year old Ballintubber Abbey amongst their friends and family.
Usually a Westlife wedding is a high-tech security operation with Hello! or OK magazine trying to protect their photographic rights to the big day.
Going against celebrity tradition Shane Filan instead wanted a special day for his true love Gillian and waved good-bye to the million euro offers from magazines and opting for a day open to friends, family and fans.
And it was such a better day for it... Shane and his bride openly posed for photographs as did their celebrity pals, everyone was in great form meeting with the dedicated Westlife fans who made the trip to the wet Mayo village.
Guests at the wedding included Ronan and Yvonne Keating, Kerry and Bryan McFadden, Louis Walsh, Bertie Ahern, Nicky and Georgina Byrne, Bertie and Miriam Ahern, Denis Desmond and wife Caroline, and Kian Egan's actress girlfriend Jodi Albert.
Shane's groomsmen included two of his bandmates Kian and Mark.
The wedding reception was held in Ashford Castle.
Shane's got a Westwife (29th December)
It's all white for star's big bash
Sorry girls, hands off Westlife's Shane Filan, he's a married man now.
The 24-year-old singer tied the knot yesterday with childhood sweetheart Gillian Walsh in a lavish ceremony at Ireland's historic Ballintubber Abbey. After the private wedding, the pair celebrated in style with their 450 guests at the luxurious Ashford Castle hotel. Shane eldest brother Finbar was best man and the other Westlife members cheered as Shane kissed his bride. Gillian looked a dream in her white dress, created by top designer Synan O'Mahony. Laughing with us before the swish knees-up, she told us she'd had removed her dental braces for the occasion and was feeling "nervous" but "excited". There was no expense spared at the extravagant do, which insiders say cost almost £ 850,000. The champagne flowed as guests partied until dawn. Dancing to Irish band The Conways.
Gushy
More than 200 fans braved the cold weather to cheer their favourites into and out of the church. Like his bride, Shane was dressed in white and the happy couple arrived at church in a white, horse drawn coach. Shane gushed: "I absolutely love Gillian to bits. She is everything to and me and I want this day to be perfect." That leaves only two Westlifers, Mark Feehily and Kian Egan, to get down the aisle… and we know three contenders.
THAT LOVIN' FILAN (29th December)
Westlife's Shane ties knot with long-time love Gillian.
By Paul Martin
WESTLIFE'S Shane Filan said he was 'the luckiest guy in the world' as he wed his childhood sweetheart yesterday.
Guests, including Irish Prime Minister Bertie Ahern, watched as Shane and Gillian Walsh exchanged vows at Ballintubber Abbey, County Mayo.
Dressed in white, Shane joked with bandmates Kian Egan and Mark Feehilly as his bride turned up late.
When Gillian, wearing an embroideredwhite dress arrived at the altar, he whispered to her: 'You look amazing.'
Afterwards, Shane said: "Looking at Gillian at the altar was the best moment of my life. I was welling up during the service."
"I feel like the luckiest guy in the world and everything went according to plan."
"It was great to go out there and wave to the fans and also see all our friends and family enjoying our big day."
"Gillian felt like a princess and looked like one too."
Last night, guests enjoyed a wedding banquet at nearby Ashford Castle.
My Westwife (29th December)
By Richie Taylor
WESTLIFE’S Shane Filan wed his childhood sweetheart yesterday — and both were sights in white.
Thousands of fans braved heavy rain to see the singer and beautiful bride Gillian Walsh, both 24.
Bandmates Kian Egan, Mark Feehily and Bryan McFadden and his wife Kerry were among the 500 guests at Ballintubber Abbey in County Mayo, Ireland.
And Ronan Keating, 26, and wife Yvonne, 29, arrived to screams from fans. Even Irish Prime Minister Bertie Ahern was there. His daughter Georgina is married to Westlife’s Nicky Byrne.
Westlife star Filan weds in Abbey (29th December)
More than 350 guests have attended the wedding celebrations of Shane Filan, singer from Irish pop group Westlife in Co Mayo.
Shane and Gillian Walsh wed at Ballintubber Abbey before staging a party at Ashford Castle hotel.
Some 200 fans arrived at the abbey to cheer on guests as they entered the church.
Filan was dressed in white and the couple arrived at the ceremony in a white horse drawn carriage.
Westlife's Shane Marries Childhood Sweetheart! (29th December)
More than 350 guests were at one of Ireland's most exclusive hotels tonight for the latest wedding party to feature one of the Westlife boy band.
Tying the knot in Co Mayo were singer Shane Filan and childhood sweetheart Gillian Walsh. The pair wed at historic Ballintubber Abbey, but celebrated later in the luxurious lakeside splendour of the nearby Ashford Castle hotel.
Shane popped the question while he and Gillian were on holiday together in Dubai last year.
The Westlifer's elder brother Finbar acted as best man at the ceremony in Ballintubber, which dates back to the 13th century - and was once left a wreck by the army of Oliver Cromwell.
Today, though more present day developments were on the minds of the boys and those fortunate enough to feature on the Ashford Castle guest list.
But, reportedly music at the strictly-behind-closed-doors wedding party - scheduled to go on until dawn and then into tomorrow - was not provided by chart-topping Westlife.
Instead, Shane was understood to have laid on another band, complete with its own DJ.
The event marked the first Westlife wedding since last summer's occasion in a French, rather than an Irish village, when Nicky Byrne married Georgina, one of Irish Prime Minister Bertie Ahern's two daughters.
Today, though, there was no tie-up with a celebrity magazine that made the French wedding so controversial back home for the premier, a guest this time.
Nicky was the second band member to get married and fans of the group were tonight waiting on news from the two remaining singers.
Around 200 of Westlife's noisy, but devoted following stood in the icy-cold-but-mainly-bright weather outside the Abbey to catch a glimpse of their favourites and cheer them into and out of the church. Like his bride, Shane was dressed in white and the happy couple arrived for the ceremony in a white, horse-drawn coach.
Westlife star's lavish wedding! (29th December)
Westlife singer Shane Filan has been celebrating his marriage to his childhood sweetheart at one of Ireland's most exclusive hotels.
Shane wed Gillian Walsh at historic Ballintubber Abbey in County Mayo on Sunday. They later celebrated along with more than 350 guests in the lakeside splendour of the nearby Ashford Castle hotel.
It was reported that Shane had popped the question while he and Gillian were on holiday together in Dubai last year.
His elder brother Finbar acted as best man at the ceremony in Ballintubber, which dates back to the 13th century, and was once left a wreck by the army of Oliver Cromwell.
Horse-drawn coach
The event marked the first Westlife wedding since last summer's occasion in a French village, when Nicky Byrne married Georgina, one of Irish Prime Minister Bertie Ahern's two daughters.
It was reported that the couple had struck a $1m (£622,000) deal with celebrity magazine Hello! to cover the ceremony.
About 200 of Westlife's noisy, but devoted fans stood in the cold weather outside the Abbey on Sunday to catch a glimpse of the band and cheer them into and out of the church.
Like his bride, Shane was dressed in white and the happy couple arrived for the ceremony in a white, horse-drawn coach.
WESTWIFE! SHANE MARRIES (29th December)
Westlife star Shane Filan has broken the hearts of legions of female fans by finally marrying his childhood sweetheart, Gillian Walsh.
After shunning an exclusive magazine deal for photos of the big day, the couple braved the cold and rain to greet around 200 fans outside historic Ballintubber Abbey in County Mayo.
Later, more than 350 guests - including Ronan Keating and Shane's fellow band members - travelled to the nearby Ashford Castle hotel to celebrate the marriage.
The happy couple both wore white outfits.
Shane popped the question while he and Gillian were on holiday together in Dubai last year.
The Westlifer's elder brother Finbar acted as best man at the ceremony in the abbey, which dates back to the 13th century.
Music at the wedding party was reportedly not provided by the Irish group.
Instead, Shane was understood to have laid on another band, complete with its own DJ.
It was the first Westlife wedding since last summer when Nicky Byrne married Georgina, one of Irish Prime Minister Bertie Ahern's two daughters, in a French village.
This time, there was no tie-up with a celebrity magazine that made the French wedding so controversial back home for the premier.
Popstar Shane gets a Westwife (29th December)
6.37PM, 28 Dec 2003
Westlife singer Shane Filan has broken his fans hearts by marrying his childhood sweetheart Gillian Walsh.
The pair wed at historic Ballintubber Abbey, but celebrated later in the luxurious lakeside splendour of the nearby Ashford Castle hotel.
Shane popped the question while he and Gillian were on holiday together in Dubai last year.
The Westlifer's elder brother Finbar acted as best man at the ceremony in Ballintubber, which dates back to the 13th century - and was once left a wreck by the army of Oliver Cromwell.
Music at the strictly-behind-closed-doors wedding party won't be provided by the chart-topping stars. Instead, Shane is understood to have laid on another band, complete with its own DJ.
The event marked the first Westlife wedding since last summer's occasion in a French, rather than an Irish village, when Nicky Byrne married Georgina, one of Irish Prime Minister Bertie Ahern's two daughters.
Around 200 of Westlife's noisy, but devoted following stood in the icy-cold-but-mainly-bright weather outside the Abbey to catch a glimpse of their favourites and cheer them into and out of the church. Like his bride, Shane was dressed in white and the happy couple arrived for the ceremony in a white, horse-drawn coach.
Shane & Gillian to tie the knot tomorrow! (27th December)
WESTLIFE'S Shane Filan will tomorrow break millions of teenage hearts by wedding long-term girlfriend Gillian Walsh.
The Sligo heartthrob and his fiancée, a cousin of band member Kian Egan, are due to tie the knot at Ballintubber Abbey in Co Mayo.
Relatives and close friends of the Sligo couple, including the rest of Westlife, are gathering at the Abbey for the ceremony.
The reception is due to be held later tomorrow at the luxurious Ashford Castle in Mayo.
Shane is the third member of the chart-topping boy band to get married.
Several years ago Bryan McFadden wed Kerry Katona at Slane Castle while Nicky Bryne married Georgina Ahern, daughter of Taoiseach Bertie Ahern, in a lavish ceremony outside Paris this summer.
Shane and Gillian opted for a private bash with only a handful of showbiz friends on the guest list.
Unlike Nicky and Georgina, the couple also decided not to sell their pictures of their big day to Hello or OK, but to pose for the media outside the Abbey this afternoon.
In the run-up to the wedding the pair booked a planner to help organise the event, although Shane admitted he was leaving much of the arrangements up to his girlfriend.
The couple began dating several years ago but kept their relationship quiet for six months, while Gillian finished a degree.
They both come from the same town and have known each other since they were 12 years old.
In an interview last year, Shane said of Gillian: "She is the perfect package. She is totally right for me. I'd love to marry her someday."
"I just fell in love with her. Every time I met her, I realised I felt so happy."
Shane proposed to Gillian last Christmas, at the same time, unknowingly, as Nicky Byrne asked Georgina to be his wife.
Shane Enlists Sisters for WedLife! (27th December)
A family of sisters from Westlifer Shane Filan's hometown of Sligo will sing at his wedding this Sunday.
The Conways, who got their first major showbiz break as support to Westlife at their hometown concert last July, have been booked to perform during the ceremony at Ballintubber Abbey, Co.Mayo.
The sisters, Sharon, Sinead, Marie and Laura have known Shane (24) and his fiancée Gillian Walsh (24) since childhood.
They were booked after wedding organizer Joanna Byrne heard them audition at a music awards event in Dublin.
The Conways will be accompanied by a quartet of classical musicians.
Their first record "What Do You Know?" reached number seven in the Irish charts and they are poised to sign a major deal with Universal Music.
Their next record "Now That It's Over" penned by Sharon and Sinead, is set for release in January.
Shane and his business graduate Gillian who were teenage sweethearts, became engaged during a holiday in Dubai last December.
It will be the second Westlife wedding of the year, following Nicky Byrne's marriage in France to Taoiseach Bertie Ahern's daughter Georgina.
That was marred by controversy over heavy security following an E800,000 deal with Hello! magazine.
Shane and Gillian, a first cousin of Westlife's Kian Egan, refused cash offers from magazine for exclusive picture rights to their wedding.
Shane said: "Anyone who wants a picture can have one. I will only get married once and we want to make it a special day."
Shane & Gillian Honeymooning with Nicky & Georgina in New York! (27th December)
Westlife's Shane Filan is planning to spend some of his honeymoon in New York where he will be joined by his band mate Nicky Byrne and his wife Georgina for some shopping.
Shane married Gillian Walsh this Sunday and the couple plan to spend part of their honeymoon in a posh Manhattan hotel so they can meet up with Nicky and his wife to do some ice skating in Central Park and to get some bargains in the New Year sales.
Although Shane has tried to keep the destination of his honeymoon top secret, the couple hope to stop in New York for at least a couple of days to catch up with Nicky and Georgina before Westlife's busy schedule starts again in the New Year.
More wedding news (20th December) (Typed by Caz so please ask if you wish to use elsewhere)
It's the other Westlife wedding of the year and both bride and groom have taken a vow not to make the same mistakes that befell Georgina Ahern and Nicky Byrne.
In 3 weeks time, on Dec 28th, Shane Filan will marry his fiancee Gillian Walsh at picturesque Ballintubber Abbey, followed by a sumptuous reception at Ashford Castle.
If you haven't heard much about their wedding, it's because the couple want it like that. As celebrity weddings go this one is trying its best to shy away from the limelight. After the public relations disaster cause by the Taoiseach's daughter's wedding in France last August, Shane and Gillian have a very different kind of celebration planned.
Georgina and Nicky were famously jeered by locals in the French village whre they married because of the excessive security measures used to preserve their 1m euro deal with Hello magazine.
In contast, Shane and his bride aim to include everybody in their big day. There will be no exclusive deal with any publication.
Instead all the international, national and local newspapers have been invited to the church after the service to snap the newlyweds as they emerge.
"Many people from the media have supported us throughout the years and we want to pay them back by letting them have pictures," says Shane. "Hopefully then, they'll go away and we can get on with enjoying the day."
While most stars sell their stories to celebrity magazines to increase their public profile, Shane Filan's refusal to sell out has only served to increase his publicity with the Irish public. The politely spoken, handsome boy next door is destined for great things when he finally leaves Westlife, purely on the back of his reputation for being down to earth and unaffected by fame and money.
Shane knows he could earn millions by selling his wedding pictures but he says he doesn't think it would be right. "It's my wedding day and I don't want to make money from it. That's not a criticism of Nicky, that was his decision - everbody does things differently. There's no right or wrong way and his wedding was also fantastic. But when our cermony is over, I'll come out of the church with Gillian and everyone can take photos and I'll chat to the press." Fans and locals are expected to gather in numbers to cheer on the newlyweds.Already, hotels and guest houses in Mayo and neighbouring Galway have been booked up.
The couple will retain Joanne Byrne, the same wedding organiser as Georgina and Nicky. Joanne maintains she wasn't put off by the experience of the summer: In the end, they got the wedding they'd always dreamed of and that's exactly what I hope to deliver to Shane & Gillian.
Unlike the wedding of fellow Westlife member Bryan McFadden to former Atomic Kitten Kerry Katona, there won't be any curtain thrown up around the church to prevent the public from catching a glimpse at some of the action. But you don't have to wait until the big day - we can reveal some intimate details about the hottest wedding of the festive season.
The meeting
Shane, 24 is the lead singer in Westlife. But his fiancee Gillian shuns the pop star world of celebrity parties. The 23-year old business graduate works hard on her own business, running the franchise clothes shop of trendy high street label Morgan that Shane and his sister Mairead bought in their home town of Sligo.
Gillian and Shane have known each other for years, Shane says: 'I've known her since I was 12 and we were in musicals together. She was one of my first girlfriends when we were teenagers and dated for a few weeks.'
The proposal
The singer proposed to Gillian on a beach in Dubai on Christmas Day last year. The pair then gathered Filan family at their home in the village of Carraroe outside Sligo to break the news. By pure coincidence, he proposed to Gillian on the same day that band mate Nicky Byrne proposed to Georgina Ahern.
The pop star has been building a 1.5m euro dream house for himself and Gillian in Sligo, but being a traditional kind of guy he wants to tie the knot before they move in.
The church
Shane says he picked the picturesque Ballintubber Abbey for his marriage after he was best man for his brother Liam's wedding there last year.
Thettiny, idyllic church is a 40 minute drive from Ashford Castle, where they are having their reception.
There will be music throughout the ceremony and celebrations but their wedding organiser says that nobody famous will perform.
'They could have asked any one of a number of people to sing but they chose not to.' she explained.
The dress
Gillian had been instrumental in expanding Shane and his sister Mairead's retail business from Sligo to Galway. They now own two Morgan clothes shops.
But for her wedding, Gillian has stayed away from the high street. Walsh, a tiny size six, travelled to London's most exclusive bridal shop to buy her dress. Vera Wang who had designed gowns for Victoria Beckham and Kristin Davis is believed to be the chosen designer.
'Gillian bought her dress in London and it was literally one of the first she tried on. She just loved it' says Joanne Byrne.
Vera Wang dresses range in cost from 10,000 to 100,000 euro.
The guests
Some 450 people have been invited but this is very much an event for family and friends.
There will only be a handful of celebrities there, including Louis Walsh and Ronan and Yvonne Keating. Simon Cowell was invited but can't make it because he is spending Christmas in Barbados.
Shane's brother Liam will be best man and fellow Westlife members Mark Feehily and Kian Egan will be his groomsmen. Walsh's sister will be bridesmaid and Bryan and Kerry's child Molly is expected to be the flower girl.
Guests received their invitations on a rolled parchment scroll two weeks ago and have been asked not to bring a camera to the wedding on the advice of Westlife's management. However family and friends will be allowed to take picture and film.
The couple have also relieved their guests of trying to find them a suitable wedding present, asking them instead to make donations to the Northwest Hospice.
The reception
The pair chose to marry at Christmas because it's a time when most of their friends and family will be around.
However they also picked the season for the atmosphere it lends. Rising out of the winter mists and early morning frost, their chosen venue, Ashford Castle which sits on the shore of Loch Corrib looks like it was transported straight from a Hans Christian Anderson story book.
'It should be like a fairytale wedding - a genuine Christmas dream with fog rising off the lake' says Shane. 'We had a look around at other venues but it didn't take us long to decide on Ashford.'
Although the lush grounds of the castle were transformed with candles and torches for Pierce Brosnan's wedding in 2001, Shane is planning bigger things.
A team of fireworks specialists has already visited the castle to prepare a lighting extavaganza.
Although the couple will welcome onlookers at the church, the castle and its grounds are strictly off limits and the hotel will employ it's own security to keep the public out.
The Castle and staff
Already all of the castle's 72 rooms have been booked for the evening, with prices ranging from 220 to 1000 euro per night.
Most of the rooms have antique fireplaces, as well as free standing cast iron baths and 20 foot high ceilings.
The couple are expected to spend at least 2 nights at Ashford and the hotel is accepting no bookings from the public for the night before the wedding either.
Filan is looking forward to relaxing by playing golf with band members Kian and Nicky.
The hotel's waiting staff undertake a strict vow of confidentiality concerning that all guests and are under instruction not to talk about the forthcoming wedding.
Menu
The wedding menu will include fresh local fish, red meat and winter vegetables. The couple are expected to follow the example of Posh and Becks and offer a choice of 2 puddings - one for women and another for men.
Ashford's head chef, Stefan Matz, who had worked in several Michelin starred restaurants around the world, had offered them a number of menu options, including: wrapped prawn tails, grilled scallops on a bed of carrots and potatoes, fillet of turbot in a sauce of smoked oysters, beef freshly smoked on turf or roast loin of Connemara lamb wrapped in vegetables and fresh herbs.
The bill
The decision not to do a deal with Hello magazine was a costly one. The wedding is going to set the couple back at least 200,000 euro
Westlife in Love (20th December)
Falling in love
Shane: I can't believe I'm getting married at 24; I thought I'd be much older than that. I was going out with Gillian before the band even started. I met her when I was 10 years old, so we were friends for a very long time before we got involved. I can totally trust Gillian; I know her so well. It's hard to find someone like that. Our relationship is better than a fairytale.
The proposal
Shane: I wanted to pick the perfect moment to propose to Gillian as well, so I waited. Then in November 2002, we went on holiday to Dubai and I knew the time was right – we'd been together for five years. I was incredibly nervous, but secretly thought she'd say yes. After dinner, we walked barefoot on a deserted beach with our trousers rolled up. Gillian was staring up at the stars when I dangled the diamond in front of her eyes, so that she just saw this one big star shining at her. I said, 'What do you think of this star, then?' I got down on one knee and proposed to her. She started crying and then she said yes. It was the most romantic moment of my whole life.
Loving moments
Shane: Cuddling, wearing pyjamas and watching telly in bed is my favourite way to spend an evening together. Gillian has these huge baby blue pyjamas and the arms are too long for her. That is so cute to me.
Looking for love
Shane: These girls are diving at me with Gillian standing right beside me having a drink. But Gillian trusts me; I wouldn't have asked her to marry me if she didn't trust me.
Shane: If you go out looking for love, you won't find it. If it's going to happen, it'll happen. You have a better chance of someone in a newsagent catching your eye than finding love at a showbiz party, so just bide your time and wait until you're no longer in Westlife.
Westlife hunk Shane Filan's wedding won't have the fairy tale wedding he hoped (20th December)
Poor Shane won't get to carry his new bride Gillian over the threshold after they wed - their new home just won't be ready in time.
Shane, 24, will tie the knot with childhood sweetheart Gillian Walsh, 23, at Ballintubber Abbey on December 28th.
After the special Yuletide wedding service, he and his Westlife pals will party at a glitzy bash in plush Ashford Castle.
The pair had planned to move in to their Sligo mansion straight after their honeymoon in Hawaii. But the 2 million euro house which has 3 floors and 20 bedrooms is way behind schedule. It was supposed to be finished last month but a friend has revealed that it will be Feburary at the earliest before the love birds can move in.
His pal said: "Shane and Gillian are a bit disappointed that their lovely new home won't be completed to move in to after the wedding. They are very romantic and traditional about things and had planned everything out to the last detail. They got engaged last Christmas and want this wedding to have all the magic of Christmas about it too. They had it all mapped out and it should be perfect." "But the fact that their new home won't be ready for them is a shame because that would have been the icing on the cake."
Unlike the other Westlife members, Shane is not selling his wedding snaps to a glossy magazine.
When Bryan wed ex Atomic Kitten - Kerry Katona and Nicky Byrne wed the Taoisearch Bertie Ahern's daughter Georgina, they both did deals with Hello! Magazine. Shane will instead allow the press to take some pictures and get a few words at the church from him before heading off for the shindig at Ashford Castle with almost 500 guests.
The pair first met when they went to the same school in Sligo, but coincidentally Gillian is a cousin of Kian Egan from the band.
Close pals Kian and Mark Feehily will be 'best men' on the big day as Shane's groomsmen.
Mark can't wait for the big day. He revealed: "I'm not the best man. I'm one of the best men if you know what I mean. That is a great honour because I have known Shane for a long time. The wedding itself should be a good laugh."
But he says he's happy that he doesn't have to give any speeches. He added that he is planning to give the couple a 'special gift' to mark the occasion - but naturally he is keeping it a surprise.
He said: "I'm getting him something special. We always try and think of something special when one of us is getting married."
Shane+Gillian for charity (5th December)
If you were watching for the postman in anticipation of an invitation to Shane and Gillian's wedding, I have bad news for you. The invites are out and if like myself you haven't got one, then it's a case of tough luck. You are going to have to settle for reading about it.
I'm told by a friend who is the proud recipient of an invite that the couple have indicated they don't want any presents. Instead, they are suggesting that guests make a donation to a charity.
What a relief for the lucky ones for whom the postman delivered. I mean, what would you give Shane and Gillian for a wedding present?
There wouldn't be much point in shoving a few notes into an envelope or buying a clock for the mansion in Carraroe.
Merely as a matter of interest, if they were accepting gifts, has anyone out there a suggestion for what you might buy this proverbial couple who have everything?
Anyway, full marks to them for having their wedding at home rather than running off abroad and also for the presents for charity idea.
While on the subject of weddings, there are still a lot of people getting married despite the impression sometimes thrown-up by modern
Society that getting hitched is a thing of the past – that people decide to live together and don't bother with the formalities. But when you travel around the country at weekends and see weddings in practically every hotel, you realise that they are far from being extinct.
Then is the part where they vow to take each other 'for better, for worse, for richer, for poorer, in sickness and in health, all the days of our life'. Perhaps if the priest is in a hurry in Shane and Gillian's case, he might decide to drop the 'for richer, for poorer', bit as I doubt if it is relevant.
And for the groom, there are the few words he says in which he basically agrees to sign all away: 'I give you this gift as a token of all I possess'.
Early on in the ceremony, before the priest commits himself to going any further, he asks the couple one very basic but intriguing
question: 'Have you come here of your own free will and choice and without compulsion to marry each other?' Now, for the life of me, I can't figure out what the priest is getting at here. Has anyone ever answered No? Who does he fear might be coercing them into it?
I can't imagine Peter and Mai Filan or Mick and Rosaleen Walsh saying to Shane and Gillian `Come on, you must get into that BMW and go up there to Ballintubber Abbey and get yourselves hitched'
Joking apart, to Shane and Gillian we say have a great day and enjoy the rest of your lives together.
Invitations have been sent out (5th December)
Westlife's soon to be newlyweds Shane Filan and Gillian Walsh have relieved their wedding guests of trying to find them the perfect wedding present.
The couple have asked the hundreds of guests attending their December 28 wedding in Ashford Castle not to buy them presents, but to give a donation to the North West Hospice instead.
While his bandmate, Nicky Byrne and his wife Georgina Ahern, were criticised for receiving a six-figure sum for their wedding photographs, Shane will allow friends and family to take pictures of the happy couple.
Invitations to Shane's glitzy wedding were sent out last week and they include the request that guests donate money to the hospice in lieu of presents for the happy couple.
Following their wedding reception in Ashford Castle on December 28 the couple will fly out to Hawaii for their honeymoon.
Shane celebrated his stag night with close pals at the weekend, attending the Chelsea Vs Manchester United match.
Watching the game from a specially hired VIP box, the revellers were provided with a four-course lunch and champagne to get the party started.
And the Westlife star had more than one reason to celebrate following the news that their third album "Turnaround" has shot into the Irish and British charts at No. 1.
The band had been haunted by recent news reports that their career was in free-fall following the failure of their single "Hey Whatever" to reach No 1 on either side of the Irish Sea.
However the band's new single, "Mandy", made famous by Barry Manilow, debuted at No. 1 in the singles charts.
For this achievement the band entered the Guinness Book of Records for the greatest number of singles to debut at No. 1. The band have also sold out five nights in the Point Theatre in May 2004.
Although the three Sligo members did say they would like to include a Sligo show on their forthcoming tour, no details of a possible return to their home town have been announced yet.
Westlife Idol in aweover palatial pad (4th December)
This imposing palatial pile could perch proudly among the awe inspiring residents in the Hollywood hills. It's a mansion fit for a star. But 24 year old Shane Filan of Westlife still can't believe he owns it.
Located in the outskirts of his native Sligo town, Chez Filan had been a work in progress for the last two and half years.
Set to be completed at the end of January, it will be a luxurios home for Shane and his long term Girlfriend Gillian, whom he'll wed after Christmas.
The sumptuous three-storey, seven bedroom pad will have all the popstar trappings,including its own cinema and indoor swimming pool, is testament to the phenomenal worldwide success of Westlife, who this week notched up 12 number one hits in the UK.
"When I walk up and look at it, I can't believe it's mine" says Shane, who also owns a home in Londons leafy Chelsea.
"Building a house like this is a dream for me-a dream come true. I've always been into architecture, I love big houses. Even as a kid I used to be looking at Hollywood houses in the magazines and on tv and was mesmerised by the whole thing. The house we've built has got a chateau-y kind of vibe to it. It's French kind of architecture. There's a tower in the middle of one side of it, it has taken forever to build it, but it's nearly sorted. We are moving in at the end of January"
The 'WE' Shane refers to is another fairytale come true-Gillian Walsh, the girl he'll marry on Sunday 28th December. He proposed in Dubai just before last Christmas.
Petite blonde beauty Gillian, a cousin of Kian Egan, has been his childhood sweetheart and their love has survived the pressures and temptations of a career in the fast lane of showbusiness.
Of all the beauties Shane has encountered in his glitzy, high flying lifestyle, Gillian is the one who makes his pulse race faster than the jets that propel him around the globe, "I just love her to bits" he says. "I've loved her for six years, and I've known her nearly all my life. I've said this many times before, she's perfect and she's everything I've dreamed of in a woman, she's got a great personality and she's got great legs as well - that clinched it for me (laughs)"
The perfectly matched couple got to know each other while performing local musicals like Oliver Twist and Grease. "We met each other through shows and we were friends for 10 years, and then we just got a bit closer and we started dating. It was the year before the band and we are still together six years later."
In the early days of Westlife Shane always denied having a girlfriend to protect her privacy, who was doing a busniess degree at Sligo IT. "I didnt say anything for a couple of years because it was something that we wanted to keep quieter" he explains. "Gillian was in college and she didn't want any hassle, she wanted to have a normal college life, and didn't want to be treated any differently to anyone else. It wasn't until her last year that the word got out. A lot of the fans found out before we went public, but most of them understood that she wanted to be a private person and it's great that the supported us on that"
With the scantly clad beauties throwing themselves at pop stars these days, how did Shane's relationship survive? "I'm a one woman man, that's the way I've wanted it to be. I always wanted to find true love, I wanted to live life this way and luckily, I found it before the band" he says.
"Im glad I found it before the band because I'd say I'd go mad in the head if I was single in the band. There are so many temptaions and it kind of plays with your head a bit. For me, I just wanted to stick with Gillian. If I wasn't going out with Gillian I'd find it hard to trust any girl I met"
Despite the thrill of 12 number ones, none compares to the excitement of Shane's wedding day "I'm very excited and can't wait" he admits "Ill probably be very nervous on the day and in the week leading up to it but not right now. I'm dying to see Gillian's dress but she won't tell me anything about it and I'm dying to see what its like"
Although Shane has taken an active interest in planning the big day he admits that hes left 99% of it to Gillian because of his work commitments with Westlife "We've decided everything together but Gillian makes it all happen and we also have guidence of a wedding planned"
The wedding is in Ballintubber Abbey, the same church Pierce Brosnan married Keeley Shay Smith and a reception of 400 guests in Ashford castle will complete the fairytale "It's going to be a fairytale wedding" he smiles "It's everything we've ever wanted. It's a Christmas style wedding, hopefully there will be nice weather and not massive amouts of rain"
The multi-millionaire singer decided not to sell the rights of his wedding to a UK magazine "The media are going to be there no matter what we do, so we will come out and pose for everyone straight after" Shane says "We'll do a couple of minutes and then hopefully we'll be left alone to enjoy our day with family and friends"
No gifts but a good cause for the wedding (4th December)
Westlife's soon to be newlyweds Shane Filan and Gillian Walsh have relieved their wedding guests of trying to find them the perfect wedding present.
The couple have asked the hundreds of guests attending their December 28 wedding in Ashford Castle not to buy them presents, but to give a donation to the North West Hospice instead.
While his bandmate, Nicky Byrne and his wife Georgina Ahern, were criticised for receiving a six-figure sum for their wedding photographs, Shane will allow...
SHANE'S SONG OF LOVE (29th November)
Westlife hunk reveals his wedding plans shattering fans' hopes on the band's latest album
WESTLIFE star Shane Filan has announced his marriage to fiancee Gillian Welsh on the band's latest album Turnaround.
The Irish superstar broke his silence on the rumoured Christmas nuptials by promising Gillian it will be the "happiest day of our lives" in the sleevenote.
Romantic at heart, Shane writes: "To my wife to be Gillian, I can't wait until the 28th of December. It will be the happiest day of our lives. I love you so much sweetheart."
Shane, who battled an ear infection and flu this week to perform with the group at the Royal Variety Performance in Edinburgh, plans to wed Gillian at Ireland's Ashfield Castle. He'll be the third member of the chart-topping group to tie the knot when the couple exchange their vows in front of 450 guests including bandmates Kian Egan, Nicky Byrne, Bryan McFadden and Mark Feehily.
Bryan is married to former Atomic Kitten singer Kerry with whom he has two kids, and Nicky Byrne married Georgina Ahern earlier this year.
Kian joked: "This band has grown into a huge family and it won't be long before the grandkids are roaming around. All the wivesand sister-in-laws and children come together on the tours and that's probably the one thing that has really kept us close as a band."
"If we didn't have all that to go home to and the end of it all, it wouldn't be the same."
"We are adults and have grown up very fast in this mad industry to survive. Families have been very important when it comes to us keeping our feet on the ground. Without them and the girlfriends, it would be a very sad existence."
"I truly think that's why we are still here today. Everybody has to go home to an everyday life away from the glamour." He added: "Shane's wedding is going to be great. And the band are all going to be there to make sure it is a fantastic day."
"Shane is going to be happy as Larry and everyone is going to enjoy themselves and that's the most important thing as far as we're concerned." "Shane's happiness on the day is what is important to us and we'll be making sure that our bandmate has a great wedding day."
While Shane gets ready for the marital handcuffs, Kian denies he is going to be the next Westlife star to walk down the aisle. The singer, who has previously dated Atomic Kitten's Liz McLarnon and glamour model Jodi Marsh, is in love with Hollyoaks babe Jodi Albert
He said: "I've only beengoing out with her for six months. I wouldn't rush into getting married. "I'd want to be with someone five years before getting married."
Westlife, enjoying their 12th No 1 this week with Mandy, launched their fifth album on Monday, at Edinburgh's Ocean Terminal. The single outsold Girls Aloud's version of Jump by two-to-one to reach the top.
MARK FEEHILY said: "It has only dawned on us just in the last couple days that we are No 1 and that we've outsold the Girls Aloud single by two to one. But we're concentrating on the future and determined not to believe in the hype. For us, you can't ignore the competition and the bands that are around. But we focus on ourselves and what we are doing rather than getting caught worrying about the other acts. "Of course, we are aware of all those new acts and shows like Pop Idol. But we don't worry about any other band because no band can come in and take away from us what have achieved so far."
Westlife admit most boy bands have split up by this stage in their careers, but insist their phenomenal success is only the beginning. The remarkable string of chart-toppers puts them among the all-time greats including the original Bachelor Boy. Nicky remarked: "Getting to No 1 feels just as much an achievement as it ever was. Apparently we're on the same number of No 1s as Cliff Richard, though we haven't been on the go nearly as long as he has."
They are determined they will remain together long enough to release a Greatest Hits II album and can't wait to return to Scotland for their next tour in April.
Nicky said: "To be honest, it's not always the band's fault that someone wants to leave or egos get out of control. You get a lot of people trying to get in your ear when you are in a band like this, whether it is members of the record company or in some cases, people in management.
"Even friends sometimes say things like 'you've had a good career, will you not go it alone, try it. It'll be good for you.' "It's a weird business to be in but from day one, we've always said there is nothing more powerful than having one another.
"We have confidence in the knowledge that no one member of Westlife is going to walk out that door without sitting down and having a long talk.
"God knows what is down the road, but hand on heart I don't think Westlife will end for a long time yet. And when it does end itwon't bea drastic thing, it'll be amicable. As far as we are concerned, we are starting to work on Greatest Hits II. America is still in the pipeline. Who knows what will happen? We could outlive the big American rock thing that is going on just now there.
"In two years time, pop might be the new big thing over there and what better than being the biggest boy band in the world when you go to break America.
"There is nothing happening day to day but in our heads and in our manager Louis Walsh's head, we're not through with America just yet."
KIAN continued: "If American record labels turn round and say they feel the American public are willing to accept a band like us, then we'll all jump on it straight away."
Nicky is so determined to make sure Westlife take every opportunity that comes their way, he has told wife Georgina kids will have to wait. He said: "I think we're being a little bit selfish at the moment and taking our time. "There are no plans for kids in the immediate future and I've always said if it happens, but not for a couple of years."
Last weekend, the boys wandered throughthe streets of Edinburghbeforeenjoyingameal at the city's Witchery restaurant.
Nicky said: "We went to see Hearts on Sunday because I used to be Alan Maybury's room-mate when I played for Leeds United.
"We supported Hearts and it was an enjoyable to see them win 2-0. It was a good atmosphere and a good win.
"I'm sure all the Hibs fans were looking at us, going, 'What are they doing supporting Hearts they're Irish and Hibs are traditionally the more Irish team out of the two clubs, but we had a great time and a great laugh."
Their rest and recreation is short lived however, having flown to Sweden where they'll continue promotional work for the latest album. The group admit their success has forced them to contact police to intervene as stalkers plague their families.
Kian said: "We've had stalkers and have had to get police called to certain girls to tell them to stop coming to our houses 24 hours of the day. These things seem part and parcel these days, but it won't stop us continuing to do what we love and that is performing as Westlife.
"There's plenty of mileage in the band yet."
VIP INTERVIEW BIT (23rd November)(thanks to Chelle)
Whats next for Westlife?
Nicky: We break around before Christmas. Then we've got Shane's wedding on the 28th of December, then we're not back to work until January. First thing back is the Childline concert which we're playing at and myself and Bryan are presenting, which should be really cool.
Kian: We've got the new album which we'll promote until February,then we go on tour. It's not announce dyet but I think its a five month, 80-dates-tour. We'll be in the Point Depot in May and do some nights there, then we look at the whole again, it's our 5th album and we've been doing it for six years. It's hard to be on the road for 24 hours, seven days a week for 6 years in a row, I think everyone in Westlife really wants to continue though, record more albums get to the stage where we can release Greatest hits part two, but only time will tell.
Shane this is going to be a very special Christmas for you, isn't it?
Yeah! I'm getting married after Christmas, Gillian and I are really looking foward to it.
Who is going to be your best man?
My eldest Brother Finbar.
How involved are you in organising it?
We actually have a wedding planner, but Gillian is putting everything to bed with her and so far everythings going according to plan, I'd be in Hong Kong or where ever at the end of the phone seeing if everything is going right, but Gillian is doing 99% of it.
Do you know where your going on your honeymoon?
We're sorting that one at the moment. It looks like it could be Hawaii or Mauritius.
You're not doing a magazine deal,why is that?
I just didn't want to do it to be honest, we got offers of both UK magazines, but we just felt that for us it wasnt right.
Are you worried about a possibilty of Media onslaught on your big day?
Shane: Maybe, especially after Nickys wedding yes. To be honest with you I thought the media was very rude. Everyone was begrudging and it wasn't fair - they were just two people getting married. Maybe I'll have to go through the same. I dont know.
Nicky: No you won't. It was mostly about Georgina's dad for the journalists.
Shane: Yes, probably. It won't be half as bad, it's because of the Taoiseach and the magazine deal that most media couldnt get their pictures - that annoyed them.
Will you pose for the press?
I'll probably pose for a few photographs outside yeah. I think at the end of the day though regardless of what we choose, the press should just leave us alone. It's a special day for us, I'm just going to get married and hope for the best.
Will Westlife be performing on the day?
No they won't, there will be no special guests. There'll just be a band, DJ and plenty of food and drink.
Shane and Gillians secret rendezvous (18th November) (thanks to Chelle)
Ashford Castle in Mayo has been the venue for secret rendezvous between Shane Filan, his fiancee Gillian Walsh and wedding planner Joanne Byrne.
"The place was full of Americans, so nobody knew them or asked Shane for autographs" said our spy at the castle. "But it meant they couldn't go for a romantic walk in the beautiful lawns of the castle"
Shane and Gillian were finalising plans for their wedding day on December 28.
Honeymoon news (18th November) (Thanks to Jenny)
Shane's going to to take some time off around new year too, cause he's going to get married to his Gillian. After that we´ll probably go to Haiwaii for our honeymoon, he chuckles. And yeah, I also wanna have loads of kids in the future...
Shane, are you having a stag party before your wedding in December? (thanks to GeorginaByrneFan on the official messageboards)
Shane: I've decided not to have a wild one. It's going to be very low key because I don't want to go round a big city making lots of noise! We'll probably just play some golf and have a few pints
You and your fiancee Gillian Walsh have been together for many years. Why did you keep it a secret for so long?
Shane: I've been going out with Gillian since the band started. It was my choice that we kept it private as I wanted her to be able to lead a normal college life and get a degree. She did that, and when her course ended we admitted we were going out. She's kept me grounded - I don't know what I'd have done without her.
Litte interview with Shane (4th November) (Thanks to: Annie)
How did you meet your fiancee Gillian Walsh?
We met when we were ten and she was my girlfriend for about 3 months. When we were 12. Although it didn't last. I used to see her around because she's Kian's cousin. We finally started dating 6 years ago.
What do you love about her?
Gillian's much quieter than me. She observes things very carefully before making any judgements - and she's almost always right! She's my rock and that's why I'm marrying her in December. Apart from the other band members and Ronan Keating, who advised us at the beginning of our career, it'll be a strictly family affair.
Does she trust you not to be tempted by fans?
You can either pursue the bachelor life and sleep with loads of women or you can play it straight with one girlfriend. Gillian knows I've always been a one-girl type of guy, and being in Westlife hasn't changed me. She trusts me completely.
What's the most outrageous thing a female fan has ever done?
In Sweden, a group of fans slept all night in the snow outside our hotel. They could have died of hypothermia. Mad!
Where's the most unusual place you've ever mad love?
Pass!
What does the future hold for you?
We both love children, but we're still very young and plan to enjoy being married before we start a family. The band is very busy too, I'd like to wait until I can spend more time at home.
ALL SET: SHANE (3rd November) (thanks to Kimz from http://kezzalifersforever.cjb.net)
Are you looking forward to your wedding Shane?
I can't wait! People keep asking me if I'm nervous but I'm not – I'll probably cack myself the day before!
What makes Gillian "the one”?
She's the perfect package! Personality wise she is amazing and she is so beautiful. She's not a stick thin model and doesn’t plaster herself in make up. She is who she is and I love her for that.
Was she your first girlfriend?
I’ve known her since I was 12 and she was one of my girlfriends! She was the sixth person I’ve kissed.
But are there any celebs you could be swayed by?
Julia Roberts is very pretty but I'm totally happy with Gillian and wouldn’t risk that for anything its just not worth it!
Aww! So, is your wedding in Ireland?
Yeah it's in the west of Ireland by a lake on December 28th. It’s at night so hopefully it wouldn’t be raining and nice dark evening.
Will there be celebs singing?
Not that I know of! Our wedding will be the complete opposite to Nicky’s, there’ll be no celebrity singers, no magazines just very low key.
Are you nervous about your stag night?
Not at all, I’d like to play golf then go out with the lads. My eldest brother’s the best man he’s under strict orders!
More wedding news - thanks to westlifesgirlies.cjb.net (13th October) It has been a popular year for Westlife weddings. Nicky Byrne walked down the aisle with Georgina Ahern in August, while Shane Filan is set to marry his childhood sweetheart Gillian Walsh at Ashford Castle in Co Mayo on December 28th. "It will be a very romantic setting, because it is in winter and it will be dark," he says. "Since I was young I have wanted a Christmas wedding." He will follow in Pierce Brosnan's footsteps by marrying at Co Mayo's Ballintubber Abbey and holding a reception in Ashford Castle!
SHANE FILAN EXCLUSIVE - MY PERFECT BRIDE (1st October) with the most huge thanks to Chelle for typing it up!
Sitting in the corner of a crowded hotel bar it would be impossible to tell at a glance you are looking at Ireland's most successful pop star of this decade. Wearing a cap, casual jeans and jacket Shane Filan carries the understated presence of someone who genuinely doesn't relish the limelight or seek attention.
Shane is the local boy made good who went on to become an international superstar.
But now, beyond the burning ambition that helped him make it to the top of the music charts, he is realising his biggest dream of all-to marry the love of his life.
And when we met in Dublin's great Southern Hotel, the singer clearly had more on his mind that music and video shoots. Shane and his fiancee Gillian Walsh had just finished an hour long meeting with their wedding planner, which was sandwiched between a mass of other commitments, interviews and banc matters.
The Sligo man revealed "Its been a pretty crazy couple of days, I'm going to get married in the next three months and the chaos is starting to build, actually yesterday was one of the best days of my life, I was sitting planning the wedding all day with Gillian and it was fantastic, we have every detail down to a tee and it was a great feeling just to know everything is sorted. This day is going to be perfect"
Even by the standards of the worlds biggest boyband, the past year has been crazy for Shane. There has been a sell out tour, No.1 singles, band promotions and publicity crusades. But most importantly for Shane there was his engagement to Gillian, also from Sligo, last Christmas. Since then its been all change for Shane.
He added "Everything is different now than before I was engaged, I feel a lot more secure with Gillian now than a year ago when she was just my girlfriend. I'm so happy knowing she is going to be my wife in three months. It makes me feel more grounded and like anyone who's getting married, I look forward to having that security"
Turning his mind to the Big day in Ashford castle, on the 28th December Shane explained "It's going to be a huge wedding in terms of how many people are on the wedding list - theres 450 at least at the minute, we have massive families and lots of friends and the people in the music business that I've known through Westlife"
As the big day draws closer Shane has revealed he has turn down what he describes as "ridiculous money" to sell the wedding pictures to a glossy magazine. He said "The press hound you because they want a picture they know they can't have, to get that picture is worth millions, they will do anything or it, in a way its not fair because if people choose to sell their pictures it's their decision and they should be allowed do that. I thought what was done to Nicky and Georgina was unfair when they were besieged by the press, Gillian and I made the decision a long time ago that we wouldn't sell our photographs."
Gillian who is a cousin of Kian Egan's, and Shane have been dating since before Westlife were formed, and despite the pressures of fame they have remained insparable, Shane says "Gillian is unbelievable, she's always been there for me right from the very start. When you get into a band and people are always looking at you you become very insecure but she has always been there for me and I've never got to a stage where I've been really down about something because she is always there to pick me back up, that's why I am marrying her, she is, in my eyes the perfect girl. She's the one who I want to wake up beside for the next 60 or 70 years, when I'm away from her pieces of my life start falling apart, I'm going to Asia for two and a half weeks soon and I'm not looking forward to being away from her for so long. We've become so close over the past year that even a couple of days apart is torture for us, if the fame ended tomorrow, that would be fine. I'd have an amazing woman and incredible memories to look back on, what more could a guy want?"
WHOA, THAT LOVING FILAN! (23rd September)
His bandmates Bryan McFadden and Nicky Byrne have sold their wedding pictures to glossy magazines. But Westlife's Shane Filan says he is determined not to follow in their footsteps.
Shane, who weds childhood sweetheart Gillian Walsh in Ireland on December 28, tells me: "I have turned every magazine offer down. I don't want to be contracted to someone on my wedding day. I want a normal wedding."
Westlife's Shane determined to not sell wedding pictures (23rd September)
The Sunday Mirror reports Westlife star Shane Filan says he is determined not to follow in the footsteps of bandmates Bryan McFadden and Nicky Byrne, who sold their wedding photos. "I have turned every magazine offer down," Shane revealed. "I don't want to be contracted to someone on my wedding day. I want a normal wedding." Filan plans to marry his childhood sweetheart Gillian Walsh in Ireland on December 28th.
Shane will get Wedding nerve coaching from Nicky (16th September) - A HUGE thanks to westlifesgirlies.cjb.net for letting me use this!
Shane will be heading for the alter in County Mayo on December 28th to marry Kian's cousin, Gillian Walsh.
"I can't wait," says Shane. "It is going to be a big Christmas style wedding. I was actually talking to Gillian about it this morning, saying how we are just really excited. Nerves will probably kick in the week before, but I will get coaching from Nicky about how to deal with that".
WEDDING BELLS! (16th September) - thanks to Kimberly for letting me use it!
"It was a fantastic day, beams the 24-year old newly wed. Everyone was every happy and very drunk, which probably explains why Shane Filan cheerily recalls heckling Georgina’s dad Bertie Ahern, during his father-of-the-bride speech. Meanwhile Shane will be heading down the aisle in County Mayo on 28 December to marry Gillian Walsh. "I cant wait" says Shane, "it's gonna to be a big Christmas-style wedding. I was actually talking to Gillian about it earlier this morning, saying how we are just really excited. Nerves will probably kick in the week before, but I’ll get coaching from Nicky about how to deal with that"
It has been left to the groups bachelors, Kian Egan and Mark Feehily to play the field. For the past few months the 23 year old has been romancing 20 year old Jodi Albert and seems utterly loved-up. So much so that even a mention of the M word doesn’t faze him. "Marriage will happen when the time is right. It might take five years or it might be Jodi"
But earlier this year Kian went through a stage of hitting London’s clubs almost every night and drinking heavily, "I think half my problem was that I’ve never had a hangover. But I often wake up and think that im never going to go to that club again because of the girls who are there. As the night goes on and more drink is drunk they slowly get into your corner then move into the kill… Jodie Marsh is a typical example. She is messed up in the head says Kian. It’s extremely frustrating that every magazine, my name is attached to hers. Look I snogged her in a nightclub – maybe twice – and she started telling everyone we were having a relationship. I quickly cottoned onto the fact that she just was a complete fame-seeker. If I could turn back time, she’d be the one girl I’d never have touched EVER!"
Shane & Gillian looking forward to the Big day (14th September)
Shane Filan has already found his perfect woman in the shape of his childhood sweetheart Gillian Walsh and they are busily planning their wedding. "We are getting married in Ashford Castle in Ireland on December the 28th," he says. "I have always wanted a Christmas wedding. We are both really looking forward to it."
Shane and Gillian to have same wedding planner as the Byrnes (9th September)
Westlife star Shane Filan and fiancée Gillian Walsh have opted for the same wedding planner band mate Nicky Byrne used for his big do earlier this month.
Joanne Byrne of PR company presence is the Irish answer to Jennifer Lopez in the wedding planner movie. Joanne has been hired to handle all media enquires relating to the event taking place in Ballintubber Abbey Co. Mayo on December 28th. The Dublin based executive has worked in public relations and event management for the past seven years and most notably co-ordinated the world premier of Riverdance. Despite her involvement with both weddings Byrne says her next Westlife wedding will be nothing like the last. This may be because-despite offers from Hello and Ok magazine allegedly paid Nicky Byrne €850,00 for exclusive rights for his pictures, Shane and Gillian refuse to do any kind of deal.
"After the ceremony Shane and Gillian will come out and everyone will get a shot, after that they want the media to respect their privacy" said Byrne. Byrne also confirmed Gillian bought her dress in London a few weeks ago "She is delighted with it but you'll have to wait until December to see it for yourself" Guests at the wedding, which will include pop idol judges Simon Cowell and Nicky Chapman - will enjoy a traditional meal with a local wedding band and DJ.
Wedding kinda sorted (9th September)
Shane told in an interview that his wedding is more than less sorted! And Gill got her dress, which she bought in London... But she doesn't wanna tell anything about, she wants to keep it a secret.
Westlife star opts for a low key approach to his big day (thanks to Michelle for typing it up!) (14th August)
Another Westlife wedding… but a vastly different approach.
Soon-to-be hitched, Westlife star Shane Filan has vowed to shun Hello!-Style wedding when he gets married in six months.
The boyband hunk does not mind being outdone by Nicky Byrne in the publicity stakes when he ties the knot with fiancee Gillian Walsh on December 28.
Shane (24) does not plan to do a deal with any of the big selling glossies and has chosen a low key affair near his hometown county in Ballintubber abbey Co. Mayo, followed by a reception in Ashford Castle. Ironically, both destinations were selected by James bond star Pierce Brosnan for his Hello!-sponcered wedding, although this time will not be a money making exercise. The Ceremony at Ballintubber will also mimic that held by his older brother Liam when he married his long term girlfriend Patricia Tahney in the same venue last year. "It's my wedding day and I don’t want to make money out of it" said Shane.
However, he was quick to add "That should not be a criticism of Nicky's wedding. It is his decision - everyone must decide for themselves." Speaking about bandmate Nicky Byrne's French wedding to Georgina Ahern outside Paris on Saturday, Shane said "There is no correct or wrong way that to do and his wedding will also be fantastic."
Planning his nuptials well in advance, Shane said "When the ceremony is over, I will come out with Gillian and they can take photos, and I will talk to the press, many people from the media supported me and Gillian over the past few years and I hope if they have their photos, that they will leave us in peace and let us simply enjoy our day” Unlike the massive €300,000 affair at the weekend, which was organised by wedding planner Tara Fay and PR woman Joanne Byrne, Gillian is doing most of the footwork for her big day.
However it is understood that the celebrity couple have already invited 500 guests - mainly family and friends-while there was 400 invited to the Chateau! But unlike Nicky and Georgina’s bash, which featured Nadine Coyle and Ronan Keating, the couple have said their wedding singers are unlikely to be famous.
And the style stakes may not be as high as Georgina and Nickys Irish designer outfits. For her future in law brother to be’s wedding Gillian opted for a gorgeous black Bodice and skirt creation while Shane donned a simple black morning suit.
Ballintubber is favourite spot for couples in the west of Ireland because of it's beautiful and secluded setting and Shane has high hopes that a low fog will romantically over the near by lake. To ensure the atmosphere is to his liking he has hired a special team to illuminate the scenery around the venue.
Gillian is a cousin of Shane’s Westlife colleague Kian Egan and all three of them grew up in Sligo together. The couple who have been dating for five years got engaged during a a holiday in Dubai organised to help Shane recover from his Glandular fever last year. He popped the question on a beach near the Royle Meridian Hotel, and after Gillian accepted he said it was like "having 50 number one records all in one go".
The duo are notoriously inseparable, spending every second with the each other, even when the westlife star is in studio and touring. Shane has often spoke of his homesickness when separated from his Maugheraboy Bride-to-be.
The photos (31st July)
Shane & Gillian
Down-to-earth Shane has very different views. 'As far as I'm concerned, it's a day to get married, not a day to make money,' he said. 'That's not a criticism of Nicky's wedding because it's a completely individual decision. It's different strokes for different folks and there's no right or wrong way to do it. When the ceremony is over, I will come out on the steps of the church with Gillian to give them all pictures and talk to the press because so many people in the media have supported us over the years. Hopefully after we have done that, they will have all the pictures they need and then they will leave us alone to enjoy the rest of our day.'
The flowers
Shane & Gillian
Award-winning Galway florist Richard Haslam has dressed Ballintuber Abbey more times than he cares to remember. He reckons the most important element of any wedding is to make sure the church looks perfect. 'Shane's wedding is going to be an exception. Money's no object for them and I know he's going to spend between E15,000 and E20,000 on the flowers,' said Richard. 'Because of the time of the year, there will be a lot of foliage, with one or two stunning flowers in each of the arrangements. Ballintubber is very easy to work with because it's very beautiful and plain. There's a simple background to build on.' Although Richard is the obvious choice, he's refusing to say whether or not he will be working on the Christmas wedding. 'No comment,' he said.
The Future
Shane & Gillian
Sligo will always be home for this pair and the finishing touches are being put to their 20-roomed property there. 'I want to have loads of kids - that's why we've got such a big house,' Shane explained. 'But it won't be for a few years yet. It would be my dream come true to have children running around our house. 'Gillian feels the same and we are both very family-minded people.'
The dresses (29 July)
Shane & Gillian
If there's one thing Gillian Walsh loves, it's high fashion and the gorgeous blonde is certain to pull out all the stops for the most important dress she will ever wear. The 23-year old plans to open her own clothes shop in Sligo, and has already spent a lot of time jetting off to the top style capitals of the world to look for ideas. 'Gillian knows what she likes and she knows what suits her,' a friend said. 'Her plans for her dress are still in the early stage but one thing's for sure, money is no problem. Shane is really into designer clothes and he introduced Gillian to them as soon as they got together. They're used to spending a bit of money on clothes and travelling to find stuff they like. Gillian's dress is sure to be a showstopper.'
The Music
Shane & Gillian
Performing showbiz pals will definitely not be a feature at Shane and Gillian's nuptials. But guests will still be greeted to some musical entertainment on the day. 'At the wedding, there will be a couple of people singing although it won't be anyone famous or anything like that,' explained Shane. 'It's going to be a very traditional and classy and we want everyone to have a good time and let their hair down.'
The Conflicts
Shane & Gillian
Expected to be a pretty loved-up affair with no obvious conflicts to report, unless, of course, Ronan and Louis haven't patched up their differences by the end of December. Shane has loyalties to Ronan who helped publicise Westlife when they first started out, but Louis is still the band's manager, so it's going to be a tricky one.
The Wedding Planner
Shane & Gillian
PR guru and friend to the stars Joanne Byrne has the task of making sure everything goes smoothly on the big day. The Dublin businesswoman runs her own agency from Fitzwilliam Square and is often behind the scenes at the country's biggest showbiz events.
'I arranged Shane's 21st birthday, which he sold to OK! Magazine a couple of years ago,' she said. 'OK! were really keen to do a deal with him for his wedding but he wouldn't budge.'
The Guests
Shane & Gillian
Because the soon-to-be-Filan couple are swapping vows a lot nearer to home, a lot more people are expected to attend their bash.
As well as the usual suspects (the Westlife boys and Louis), both families and groom's extended families will be making their way to Ballintuber Abbey on December 27. 'There are going to be about 500 guests as it is, although the number is growing every day.' Said Shane. 'It will be all close friends and family and people who have become friends of mine in the music industry.'
Shane will also be asking a lot of pals from the horse world. The racing mad singer has invested heavily in his prized stables and plans to go in to the horse breeding business with his older brother Liam when his Westlife career is over.
Shane's wedding to have a Christmas theme (25 July)
Shane Filan's wedding is going to be a huge affair coupled with a Christmas theme.
It's the day Shane Filan's female fans have been dreading. After five years of courtship, the countdown is on to the day the pop idol gets hitched this year.
The day is Sunday December 28. The ceremony takes place in Ballintubber Abbey with the reception in nearby Ashford Castle in Cong, Co Mayo
Shane admits that his childhood sweetheart Gillian Walsh from Maugheraboy is doing most of the preparation...
Shane's 'Magical mystical ceremony' (24 June)
In an exclusive interview backstage in the Oddessy arena the singer lifted the lid off the biggest showbiz wedding of the year.
The Westlife hunk will tie the knot in Ballintubber Abbey on December the 27th, then stage a lavish reception in Ashford castle, Shane said: "It's going to be a really magical Irish wedding. Everything is planned and sorted now,there's just a few minor details to take care of. It's such a gorgeous setting around there and I want it to be a real Christmas theme with mist everywhere. There is a huge lake next to Ashford Castle and we're bringing in a special team to light it all up in these amazing colours. It's going to be really romantic and spectacular because at that time of year mist just rolls in off the lake and makes the whole place look incredible. There are going to be 500 guests at it -although the number is growing by the day!! It will all be close friends and family and people who have become friends of mine in the music industry. At the wedding there will be a couple of people singing -although it wont be anyone famous. It's going to be very traditional and classy and we want everyone to come and have a good time and let their hair down. I've picked my outfit and got it all planned but I don't want to reveal exactly what it is because it would spoil the surprise for Gillian."
The star admitted that he could have made millions from selling his pictures but vowed that no amount of money would convince him to give the wedding rights to a glossy mag..
He said: "At the end of the day as far as I'm concerned it's a day to get married.. not make money. That's definitely not a criticism of Nicky's wedding because it's a completely individual decision-It's different strokes for different folks and there's no right or wrong way to do it and his wedding is going to be amazing too. When the ceremony is over I will come out on the steps of the church with Gillian and give them pictures and and talk to the press because so many people in the media have supported us over the years, hopefull when they've got all the pictures they want they'll leave us alone to enjoy our day"
Shane 23, will avoid alcohol at the reception, because he has seen may grooms wake up the next morning with blurred memories of their big moment.
He said: "I don't want to get drunk, my worst nightmare would be the wake the next day and not have a clue what happened on my wedding day, Ill have a couple of glasses of champagene to celebrate then ill just enjoy the whole night. After the hunnymoon Shane and Gillian, 23, will return home to Sligo to start life as a married couple in their 8 bedroomed home, and a while total of 20 rooms and three floors may seem a little extravagant for just two people, Shane is in know doubt how he wants to fill it.
"I want to have loads of kids-that's why we've got such a big house" he explained.
"It would be my dream come true to have children running around our house, Gillian feels the same and we're both very family-minded people, I don't know if I'll still wait until westlife is over to start a family because we are planning on going on for a good few years in Westlife still!" "Realistically we've got 4 albums in us and we will go out with a bang and a proper ending"
"Im getting married to the girl of my dreams,and Westlife are in the middle of a sell out tour, I'm living my dreams."
Filan great about love (24 June)
Westlife singer Shane Filan is having the year of his life-but he's saving the best for last.
He marries the love of his life Gillian Walsh, in Ballintubber Abbey Co.Mayo on the last weekend of this year.
"Obviously Gillian is doing more of the organising than me because I'm away a lot but I'm still very much involved" he said. Its going to be a real Irish wedding with a Christmas vibe."The reception is in Ashford Castle and we're having a theme but I'm keeping it a secret until people get there, we haven't completed the guest list but both myself and Gillian come from very large families so we're up to 400 so far, its not going to be an intimate affair!"
The heartthrob singer has booked out the luxury castle for two days and two nights right between the Christmas and new year celebrations.
"It's perfect time for all our friends and family will be off for Christmas anyway, we've booked out all 90 rooms so that some guests can be accomadated" "Im not sure about the honeymoon but we may go to South Africa and Maurtius afterwards"
Shane secretly designed a dream engagment ring for Gillian while the two enjoyed an exotic holiday last December. He had planned on getting engaged on Christmas day but instead got engaged as he recovered from a viral infection.
"I went and ordered the ring, but the big problem was finding her ring size-all I know is that she has small fingers. So I brought her into the shop on the pretext of looking at a bracelet and the owner figured out the size by looking at her hands, it turned out to be the perfect fit!"
Shane's eldest brother Finbarr will be his best man and band mate Mark Feehily will be part of the grooms party. He confirmed that he and Gillian have decided to keep their big day to themselves and are not accepting offers from Glossy magazines "Its one day in my life and the press in general have always been good to us so I want anyone who wants a photo to have it"
Shane has asked Mark to be one of his groomsmen (28 March)
Westlife's Shane Filan has asked Mark Feehily to be one of the groomsmen for his wedding.
Shane, who is getting married to childhood sweetheart Gillian Walsh on Sunday December 28, asked Mark last week. A source close to the band revealed: "Shane arrived up to Mark's door and asked him. "Mark was totally surprised and shocked. He never expected to be asked. He is over the moon and can't wait for December."
Shane and Gillian are tying the knot in Ballintubber Abbey and the reception will be in Ashford Castle, Co Mayo.
December was the most suitable time for the couple to get married, as the band are busy promoting and touring throughout the year. But it will be a day for Shane's fans too. The couple have turned down lucrative deals from Hello and OK magazines for exclusive pictures of their wedding day.
The source continued: "Shane and Gillian want to have total control over their own day and want their guests and the fans to enjoy it." The band released their latest single Tonight last Friday. The band are currently promoting the new single and have appeared on the Late Late Show and Graham Norton. "The band will be based in London for the foreseeable future."
The latest figures will be released this Friday and will reveal whether the song gives the band another number one hit.
Shane won't drink on his big day (20 March)
Shane has vowed not to drink at his wedding, so he can perform on his big night Shane confirmed that he's marrying Gillian just after Christmas at Ballintubber Abbey in Country Mayo, Ireland. But he shocked his bandmates by revealing that he won't touch a drop of the hard stuff. Shane said "I'm sure the rest of the lads will get drunk. But I'll be off the booze all day. At least I'll remember it!"
Shane and Gillians secret wedding plans (From Sneak magazine) (6 March)
Sneak's discovered the amazing secret plans for Shane Filan's wedding! According to our source, Shane and fiancée Gillian Walsh will tie the knot in a touching ceremony later at the end of this year, between Christmas and New Year's Eve - and will celebrate with their family and all their famous friends at a reception in a luxurious castle. Here's your easy-to-follow-guide to the big day!
1. THE CHURCH
The pair will marry at picturesque Ballintubber Abbey in County Mayo in West Ireland, where Shane was best man for his brother Liam's wedding on 21st September last year. The tiny and idyllic church, which is steeped in history, is also where James Bond star Pierce Brosnan got married in 2001. "Shane loved the area and the setting when his brother got married there", confirmed our source. We think it looks gorgeous too
2. THE DATE
The pair has sensibly chosen to marry on a day when all of their friends and family will be around and not on tour! It's still to be confirmed, but Sneak's heard the ceremony is likely to take place on Saturday 27th December. "Like band mate Bryan McFadden, Shane's chosen a winter wedding" our source told us exclusively.
3. THE RINGS
As Shane chose a platinum chain-link engagement ring and Gillian chose a solitaire diamond, it's thought that, just like Posh and Becks, they will go for a similar design for their wedding rings. We've heard that Shane might go for a simple platinum band, while Gillian's will be more decorative and include more gems. Blingin'!
4. THE RECEPTION
The romantic pair is believed to have chosen stunning Ashford Castle, about 40 miles away form the church. The hotel, surrounded by lush parkland and top golf courses, offers luxurious suites with posh bathrooms and huge fireplaces. At the time Shane and Gillian will be visiting, the best suite will cost around £600 for one night!
5. THE DRESS
"Gillian loves fashion and is bound to go for a designer frock", revealed our source. She could decide to be patriotic and choose a prominent Irish designer but she romantic side might mean she chooses a dress by celeb favourite Vera Wang, who has designed wedding gowns for everyone from Victoria Beckham to Kristin Davis' Sex In The City character Charlotte!
6. THE FOOD
Shane and Gillian will specially create a wedding menu for their guests, which is likely to include fresh fish from Ashford's lakes, red meat and winter vegetables. They might also copy Posh and Becks and offer a choice of two puddings - one for the girls, one for the boys! "Ashford food is out of this world," said our source.
7. THE GUESTS
Shane could end up with two best men if he asks both band mate Bryan McFadden and brother Liam to do the honours. Gillian's younger sister will be a bridesmaid and it's thought that Bry's eldest daughter Molly McFadden could be a flower girl. In addition to the bride's and groom's families, the guest list reads like a who's who of pop! The Blue boys, Ronan Keating, Westlife's manager Louis Walsh and Atomic Kitten are all due to attend, and there's bound to be a late- night sing-song in Ashford Castle's Dungeon Bar with that lot!
8. THE SCHEDULE
Shane likes to relax by playing golf so he could spend the morning of his big day on the hotel's award winning course with fellow golf lovers Kian and Nicky! He and Gillian are expected to stay at least a couple of days at Ashford and with it's stableful of horses or cruises on the lake, they'll enjoy every minute!
9. THE HONEYMOON
The pair is still undecided on where to go, but Shane's bound to be flicking through luxury holiday brochures whenever he can on Westlife's tour this year! Sneak's heard that the couple might choose luxurious Mauritius; Dubai where Shane proposed to Gillian; or the romantic Caribbean with a stop-off in nearby America as both he and Gill love the US.
Date of the marriage (3 March)
Shane and Gillian have announced that they'll marry 28th December 2003, in Co. Mayo, Ireland.
Photos of the marriage won't be published in magazines like Hello! or OK!
Incredibly, Shane also proposed on Christmas Day (20 January)
He says: "The most nerve wracking part was asking Gillian's dad for permission. I think it's something every fella gets worried about."
The couple, both 23, have been dating for three years and say they hope to walk down the aisle in the next 18 months. But the band has an incredibly punishing year ahead.
Their new single Tonight is released on March 3 and they begin a gruelling world tour in April. Heartthrob Shane says: "The fans have been wonderful about the engagement."
"There might be a few who are unhappy but I think most realise we are normal lads who have personal lives. If we're happy, hopefully they will be happy for us too."
Westlife Stars Christmas proposal to the queens of their hearts (11 January)
They may be adored by millions of women, but Westlife's Shane Filan and Nicky Byrne are now firmly off the market. The singers, who have enjoyed 11 number one singles as part of the boy band, both proposed to their long-term sweethearts over the festive season.
Shane admitted that getting engaged to his girlfriend, Gillian Walsh, was like having 50 number one records all in one go. The multi millionaire band member, who has been with Gillian for two years, proposed in Dubai two weeks ago, but kept their happy plans secret until Christmas Day. He said: 'We had dinner at Le Ryal Meridien hotel, where we were staying, and then went for a walk along the beach. We were lying on some deckchairs and Gillian was saying how amazing the stars looked, so I pulled the ring out of my pocket and said: "What do you think of this star?" Gillian grabbed it off me, screamed, said yes, then started crying, hugged and kissed me!'
Nicky popped the question to his girlfriend, Georgina, on Christmas Day after taking her father, Irish Prime Minister Bertie Ahern, to the pub on Christmas Eve to ask for her hand. 'I just went down on one knee and she said yes straight away. I love her so much; she's been with me though thick and thin.'
SHANE IS PLANNING A MAGICAL CHRISTMAS WEDDING WITH HIS FIANCEE (6 January)
The singer wants to tie the knot on or around Christmas Eve and plans are already being made for the big day. Shane, 23, told the mirror: "We are still looking at all the options and trying to make up our minds what to do but i like the idea of a winter wedding."
"I think because I proposed to Gillian on Christmas Day it would be a idea to get married at the same time of year. "We are thinking of doing it as close to Christmas as possible-maybe even Christmas Eve if it works out."
"Its going to be a big family occasion with all of our best friends there too-the last thing we want is for it to become a big media frenzy."
Shane has ditched plans to get married in the summer because Westlife will be busy touring and promoting single releases. If they get married at Christmas he will have three weeks off too enjoy the occasion and go on honeymoon.
The singer added: "I've always liked the idea of a winter wedding. I think theres something really romantic about it and so does Gillian but we havent made final decisions yet."
"We've been talking to different people about where and when to do it and hopefully we will know more in the next couple of months. "We want everything to be perfect and I think it would be the best Christmas ever."
"Everyone is really looking forward to it and they've been talking non-stop about it since we announced it." "Obviously mum and dad are thrilled."
The couple will live in a three-story mansion in Sligo when they tie the knot. Construction has just been finished on a similar home for Shane's family. The house boasts seven en-suite bedrooms, a two-storey dining room and a snooker room.
"Its a really special gift for my mum and dad and entire family," he said. "Im getting a new house built for Gillian and I too."
And Shane Also reveals he went on bended knee to Gillian in Dubai (Don't know when it was published)
Westlife heartthrobs Nicky Byrne and Shane Filan yesterday revealed for the first time how they surprised their girlfriends by popping the question.
In an exclusive interview, Nicky told the Sunday World that he first asked the South's Taoiseach Bertie Ahern for his stunning daughter Georgina's hand in marriage over Christmas Eve drinks in a Dublin pub.
Meanwhile, pin-up Shane revealed that he chose a romantic moment on a beach in exotic Dubai three weeks ago to propose to gorgeous girlfriend Gillian Walsh, who is a first cousin of Westlife's Kian Egan.
Nicky, (24) who has been dating Bertie's daughter Georgina for eight years, admitted: "The most difficult part was asking her dad. It crossed my mind a couple of times in recent months, but I kept putting it on the long finger.
"Its not like Bertie isn't a busy man and I didn't want to ring him up in case he couldn't take the call. I was afraid he might ring Georgina and say that 'Nicko' was looking for him because I wanted it to be a surprise for her.
"Then on Christmas Eve we went out to his local pub, Fagn's in Drumcondra, for a drink. I was biding my time and I finally got the chance when Georgina went to the toilet. I leaned across and asked him there and then.
"Bertie gave me a big smile, clapped me on the back and said he was delighted. 'I wish you both the best of luck in your lives together,' he added".
Then I rang Georgina's mum on the mobile and asked her. She thought I was joking at first."
Dark beauty Georgina was completely unaware of Nicky's intentions until Christmas morning arrived. He first surprised her with a Labrador puppy called Keano - named after his soccer hero Roy Keane - as they exchanged presents in their new 2.7 Million Euro dream home near Ronan Keating's mansion in Dublin's Malahide.
Georgina was happily playing with Keano when Nicky got down on one knee, produced a magnificent pear-shaped diamond ring and asked her to marry him. "It was like a fairytale," he says. "We were in the house of our dreams and this was the icing on the cake. Georgina was very emotional, she was completely surprised and she loved the ring. I picked it myself, which I'm quite proud of."
Nicky revealed that he decided six months ago to pop the question on Christmas Day and had only confided in one family member - his gran dad Bernard McGarry, who passed away last October.
"My Gran dad had been sick since August and in September I decided to tell him before it got to the stage where you couldn't talk to him," Nicky says. "He was delighted and I said, 'It's our secret.' I asked my Nana on Christmas Day if he had said anything to her and she said, 'No, he never said.' He was the sort of person that if you told him a secret it would remain a secret."
Although Nicky and Georgina haven't yet set a date or booked a venue for their wedding, they will marry during 2003. "We always said we'd never have a long engagement, so it will be quite soon, maybe before the end of the year. We are too excited at the moment to even think about it," he added.
Shane Filan, who took a break from Westlife in early December to recover from glandular fever, flew off on holiday to Dubai with girlfriend Gillian and decided to propose to her on a beach by night.
"I had planned to get engaged at Christmas and I picked the ring, a Solitaire two carat white diamond with white gold band," Shane revealed.
"Dubai seemed such a beautiful place to surprise Gillian. I did it on a beach one night, went down on one knee and asked her to be my wife. It was a great moment, Gillian started crying and then she said 'Yes'.
"I asked her father for permission to marry his daughter before we went away and I told him to keep it quiet for a while. I put him out of his misery on Christmas Day when we told our families, so he was able to relax then."
Shane, (23) has known Gillian for 10 years and, despite all the beautiful women he has met during his career with Westlife, he said yesterday that none compares to her. "Gillian is up on a pedestal in my eyes," he added.
Shane and Gillian, who have bought a house in Carroroe, Sligo, plan to marry during Christmas of next year. "It will be a nice big Irish family wedding." he said. "We've chosen the venue, but we want to sort out a few things before we say where it is."
Shane and Gillian get engaged on beach in Dubai (31 December)
By Sandra Coffey
Tuesday, December 31, 2002
Popstar Shane Filan reaches high notes for a living, yet nothing could beat the high he got when girlfriend Gillian Walsh said yes to his proposal of marriage.
The setting, on a Dubai beach on Christmas Day last was romantic and intimate.
As Shane (25) proposed to his girlfriend of three years, the Filan family were busy getting ready for the festivities at home in Carraroe.
A source close to the Filan family said: "We got all the family together for the announcement on Christmas Day. We are absolutely thrilled. Obviously we had no idea but we did expect it eventually."
Wedding plans have not been finalised yet as the couple are still deciding where to tie the knot. The wedding will take place next year and is expected to be a big family affair.
Shane isn't the only family member who is planning to walk down the aisle.
The source said: "Two of his siblings got engaged also, one in September and one in October. They will marry in 2004. It's going to be a hectic time in the months ahead."
Shane's older brother Liam got wed earlier this year. Shane and his wife-to-be, Gillian, were there. Gillian said: We went to Shane's brother Liam's wedding this year and it was lovely. We had a great day at it."
Shane and Gillian, a native of Maugheraboy, have known each other since early childhood.
One of the first productions the couple starred in was Grease when it was staged in Summerhill College five years ago.Grease saw three members of the cast come together and form Westlife. But it also started one of the biggest love stories in pop.
Shane played Kenickie and Gillian played Frenchie in what became a hit, in more ways than one.
Gillian said: "I've known Shane since we were 10 years old. I've known him well for the past seven and we are going out together for the last three."
But the Westlife star is not the only part of this duo that has musical talents.
"I've been singing and dancing from a very young age. I love it. I still dance but I leave the singing up to him."
Gillian graduated this year with a Business Studies degree from Sligo's Institute of Technology. She is taking time out to consider her career and now plan her wedding.
"I'm taking a bit of time out to decide what to do career wise. It's also giving me a chance to spend more time with Shane."
Gillian decided to take up some part-time work in Morgan on Castle Street, a clothes shop run by Shane and his older sister Mairead.
"I love working here. It also gives Mairead (Shane's sister) or any of the other girls a chance to take time off and I can stand in.
"Me and my mum Rosaleen have bought a couple of things in there. Sligo needed a shop like it."
No doubt she will be calling in on the fashion house for some ideas for her big day.
Shane's Licence to Thrill (31 December)
Westlife's Shane plan 007 star style wedding.
Westlife's Shane Filan will follow James Bond star Pierce Brosnans footsteps up the aisle. After a Christmas proposal, Shane has set the date for the wedding to his fiancée Gillian Walsh.
The Sligo born sweethearts will tie the knot next December - mirroring Brosnans wedding. The ceremony will be in Ballintubber Abbey in county Mayo, before plush afters in Ashford Castle. Shane followed his brother Liam's advice in choosing the castle venue. Ashford castle is one of Irelands plushest hotels, one night standard room - without breakfast costs at least £36.
Shane's decision means the chances of a double wedding with Nicky Byrne - who also got engaged Christmas Day are slim.
The news of each others Christmas Day proposals came as a huge surprise to Nicky and Shane. When Shane phoned band manager Louis Walsh to tell him the news he was told he was not alone.
Nicky had waited until Christmas morning to pop the question to Taoisheach Bertie Aherns daughter Georgina.
Nicky and Georgina have being dating for 8 years. They recently moved into the same millionaire development as Ronan Keating. They have yet to disclose any date for the big day.
Shanes parents Mae and Peter brother (names em all) and sisters (names em all) were delighted.
Also over the moon was band mate Kian Egan - who is first cousin to Gillian.
Kian said he's always been happy about the relationship totally trust him with my cousin. If I didn't he wouldn't be with her.
Shane and Gillian plan to enjoy married life in a 1.5 million love nest their building in Carraroe co. Sligo.
The pair who has known each other since they were 12 have been an item for three years.
"I can't ever see myself being happy without Gillian, she's my perfect."
Getting engaged is like having 50 No1s (round Christmas)
ROMANTIC Westlife pin-up SHANE FILAN got engaged to GILLIAN WALSH TWO WEEKS AGO in Dubai-but they didn't tell their delighted parents until Christmas Day, I can exclusively reveal.
The lovebirds had flown off on doctors' orders because Shane was suffering from glandular fever...and the millionaire singer popped the question on a star-lit seashore.
Shane and fellow bandmate NICKY BYRNE, who has also got engaged-to long-term girlfriend GEORGINA AHERN-gave me the inside track on their proposals.
Smitten Shane reckoned: "It was like having 50 No1 records all in one go!" While loved-up Nicky gushed: "I'm the luckiest man in the world."
Shane, who has dated Gillian for two years, said: "We had dinner at the Royal Meridian hotel where we were staying, then went for a walk on the beach.
"We were lying on some deckchairs and Gillian was saying how amazing the stars looked, so I pulled out the ring and said, 'What do you think of this star?'
"She grabbed it off me, then I went down on one knee and said, 'Will you marry me?' Gillian screamed, said yes and started crying, hugging and kissing me."
Nicky took a more traditional approach to his proposal to girlfriend-of-eight-years Georgina, the daughter of Irish Prime Minister BERTIE AHERN.
He said: "I took Bertie to his local, Fagans in Drumcondra, on Christmas Eve and asked for her hand-and he said yes. Then I rang his wife, Laura, and she was over the moon. Georgina was downstairs when I got up on Christmas day. I just went down on one knee and she said yes. I love her so much-she's been with me through thick and thin."
Shane said: "Two Westlife weddings next year and a tour is gonna be crazy. But the band will not be splitting up. Getting married won't change Westlife's outlook."
Nicky and Shane to marry (Don't know when it was publised)
From BBC
Westlife have been nicknamed 'Wedlife' after heartthrob duo Nicky Byrne and Shane Filan popped the question to their long-term girlfriends. Dubliner Nicky is to marry childhood sweetheart Georgina Ahern, daughter of Taoiseach Bertie, while Sligo-born Shane proposed to partner Gillian Walsh.
And it was diamond engagement rings at the double. Nicky (24) and Shane (23) surprised their girlfriends when they produced the rings on Christmas Day. According to the Irish Daily Star, neither bandmate knew of the other's plans to announce their engagement. Now, fans will be wondering if there will be a fairytale double wedding next year.
Nicky and Georgina, the Taoiseach's eldest daughter, started dating at school - and have been inseparable ever since. They celebrated their eighth anniversary as a couple on October 8.
Georgina graduated with a degree in business studies earlier in the year. Shane has also been together with his partner for some time.
Mum Mae and dad Peter were said to be "delighted" with their son's news.
Nicky has recently bought a new home in Malahide, north Dublin, while Shane has been building a dream lovenest for himself and Gillian in Carrone, Sligo, this year.
Meanwhile, Westlife's incredible success shows no sign of waning.
The five-piece recently scored their 11th UK number one single with the ballad Unbreakable, giving them more chart-toppers than pop legends like The Rolling Stones, Abba and Madonna.
More than 3,000 fans turned out for Westlife's in-store appearance at HMV in Belfast last month.
During their World Of Our Own tour earlier in 2002, Westlife performed a record-breaking string of 12 dates in Belfast. And the band was hoping to smash that number in 2003.
Shane and Nicky are getting married! (Don't know when it was publised)
Sorry girls, but two more Westlife stars are off limits for good after asking their girlfriends to marry them.
Nicky Byrne and Shane Filan both popped the question on Christmas Day with diamond rings.
It was a complete coincidence - neither knew the other was proposing! 'Yes!' Both girls happily said yes.
Nicky's marrying Georgina Ahern, whose dad is Irish prime Minister Bertie Ahern. The pair have been going out for eight years and have known each other since they were little. When he was 12 Nicky told his mum he'd seen the girl he was going to marry. Aah!
Shane's fiancée is Gillian Walsh. She's bandmate Kian's first cousin. We don't know when the happy days will be yet but maybe the boys will have a double wedding!