Portmarnock woman shocks boyfriend with Leap Day proposal

Jennifer Keegan

A NORTHSIDE woman proposed to her long term partner live on television on Leap Day.

Maria Kelly, from Portmarnock, proposed to her boyfriend of seven years, Bryan Geraghty, live on ‘Ireland AM’ on February 29, which is traditionally a day when women propose to their partners.

The couple met while working together in Dunnes Stores.

“We used to sit back to back in the buying office, in head office,” Ms Kelly said. “It was a funny start to the relationship.”

They now have three daughters, Cassia, Olivia and Layla and a house together.

With the help of Virgin Media’s Ireland AM, Ms Kelly was able to plan a proposal which would be broadcast live.

Ms Kelly’s family also knew of her plans so her two sisters were able to help keep Mr Geraghty occupied while their house was readied.
‘Ireland AM’ presenter Laura Woods was seen knocking on the door and pretending that Ms Kelly had won a competition, so as to explain the cameras.

Mr Geraghty followed as she entered the house and went into the sitting room, where Ms Kelly was waiting on one knee with a balloon arrangement.

She told the very surprised Mr Geraghty: “You've captivated me from day one. You interested me with your poker face and from day one you've excited me. We've shared memories, we've shared trips, we've even had children and we've made a beautiful home, and I want to spend the rest of my life with you.”

When she asked him to do her the honour of being her husband, Mr Geraghty replied straight away with “absolutely”.

The cameras captured the two of them hugging and laughing. They both said they were “shaking’ following the surprise. The proposal was also witnessed by their children.

While planning the proposal, Ms Kelly told Northside People that she’s “a big romantic” and loves big gestures.

She said afterwards: “I was so calm that morning but the five minutes before it was about to happen, I was sick in my stomach.”

Ms Kelly said that no date has yet been set for the wedding.

“The only thing we’ve talked about is when we’re going to go ring shopping!” she added.

The couple spent the rest of their day eating out and celebrating with their family and friends.