The 4-star Shandon Hotel and Spa in Dunfanaghy has announced the appointment of Kiara Murphy as its new Weddings and Events Manager.
Kiara, who holds a BA in Hospitality Management from ATU Donegal Killybegs (formerly LYIT), has been a key member of the team since 2019.
Kiara’s connection to the Shandon actually stretches back further than her 2019 start. “My first job in hospitality was in fact in the Shandon in 2008 when the McGlade family owned the hotel,” she recalls.
Following this, Kiara worked as a waitress in Arnolds Hotel Dunfanaghy and benefitted from the guidance of Aisling Arnold, who encouraged her to pursue a career in the industry.
The Shandon’s story was revitalised in 2016 when it reopened its doors under new ownership and under the leadership of General Manager Carolynne Murray.
On returning to the Shandon, Kiara began at reception, a role she loved. “I was promoted in 2021 to weddings and events for one year and then moved into sales,” she says. This combination of front-facing and behind-the-scenes experience has given her a strong foundation for her new position.
The Shandon Hotel has a drive for developing talent from within, and Kiara is one of the many to come up the ranks: “Carolynne Murray, our Director and General Manager, has a great way of identifying future leaders and great managers.”
“The majority of her managers and senior managers have started off at entry level and she recognised their potential and put in the framework for them to progress. It’s been a great place to work and I would encourage anyone who has a hunger to progress in hospitality to consider a company like the Shandon.”
Reflecting on her years at the hotel, Kiara highlights the people and the atmosphere as the reasons why she loves coming to work. “Since joining the Shandon I have enjoyed interaction with our guests, some who are now regular customers,” Kiara says.
“I enjoy the variety of the job and the opportunities for personal and professional growth. The Shandon employs over 150 team members throughout all seasons. I enjoy collaborating with the various departments and working together to create amazing guest experiences, which is why our repeat guest percentage is so high and our wedding market continues to grow.”
As she steps into her new role as Weddings and Events Manager, Kiara is most excited about supporting couples through the special planning process. “I really enjoy the behind-the-scenes work. I am very organised, so I enjoy meeting with the wedding couples and seeing their vision and taking some stress off their shoulders,” she says.
“Every wedding is so different. Weddings are one of the most memorable family events for all involved and it’s so rewarding to see such happiness and joy when everyone is taking it all in.”
The Shandon’s breathtaking coastal setting is a natural draw for couples. “The view here is a selling point in itself,” Kiara notes. “We can do everything onsite, from the ceremony, reception, rehearsal dinners, after party BBQs. Your guests could book in to stay for the weekend and not have to leave the resort.”
She adds that the hotel’s spa has become a unique part of the wedding experience: “What has become increasingly popular is a spa after party… our spa can be hired private for your own group and we have just added a duo plunge pool, where many take bets on how long they can last.”
Beyond weddings, Kiara and her team are busy planning a vibrant calendar of events. “We have our ABBA tribute night coming up on Saturday 31st January and our murder mystery dinner show on Saturday 7th March,” she says. “Tickets for both events are now on sale on our website. They make great Christmas gift ideas for those who have everything and are difficult to buy for!”
The hotel will also host its Wedding Open Week from Sunday 4th January to Sunday 11th January, when couples can meet Kiara and the events team to see the McCarthy Suite fully dressed for a wedding. “All newly engaged wedding couples will be congratulated with a glass of prosecco and if they confirm their date with a deposit on the day, they will be given a voucher for our Bayview private hot tub experience, 1.5 hour thermal spa and afternoon tea for two,” she adds.
As for what’s new at the Shandon, Kiara says there’s plenty to celebrate. “We have just completed a complete refurb of our junior suites,” she shares. “We have added new outdoor hot tubs, a plunge pool, and light therapy to our salt and eucalyptus grotto. We are also working on further expansion of our award-winning spa, adding more outdoor facilities to make the most of the amazing views over Sheephaven Bay.”
For more information on the Shandon Hotel wedding or events calendar, get in touch with Kiara at 074-9136137 or email kmurphy @ shandonhotelspa.com
Kiara Murphy appointed new Weddings and Events Manager of Shandon Hotel was last modified: November 3rd, 2025 by Rachel McLaughlin
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