Meet the Team
Wedding Specialists at Ballygally Castle

Maddy Roberts
Events Manager
What inspired you to get into the hospitality industry?
I love people and going that extra mile to make someone’s day. I have always loved striking up a chat with anyone and enjoy connecting with all walks of life.
How would you describe yourself to someone who’d never met you?
Enthusiastic with a great sense of humour, loving to be super organised and put my all into whatever projects come my way, whether that be hosting a wedding to building a polytunnel at home, I get it done with a positive attitude, efficiently while having fun.
What is your favourite event space in the hotel?
I love the Belvedere, it’s such a unique space to hold a ceremony or function as it’s so connected to the stunning nature and scenery that surrounds the hotel.
What is your favourite part of event/wedding planning?
Building a fun and trusting relationship with couples and then doing the best job I possibly can. Connecting with people professionally on this level, understanding their hopes and visons for their day and actually making them happen for them, is endlessly rewarding.
Who do you look up to/who inspires you?
My Mum, she has always set such an incredible example to me to go and get the most out of life, with passion, kindness and sense of adventure.
What’s your greatest passion outside work and family?
I live on a farm, love gardening and spending as much time possible outdoors; from growing veg, hanging out with my chicken and highland cows, to hiking mountains and most of all swimming in the sea.
What makes you proud about working for Hastings Hotels?
The strong sense of community and teamwork that leads to incredible guest care.

Morgan McGookin
Events Coordinator
What inspired you to get into the hospitality industry?
I’ve worked in hospitality since I started working. I’ve always loved meeting new people and building relationships with new faces every day.
How would you describe yourself to someone who’d never met you?
I’d describe myself as a very happy, chatty person who loves learning new things.
What is your favourite event space in the hotel?
My favourite event space is our 1625 Room. It’s our private dining room located in the old tower of the hotel. The décor and set-up of the room are the perfect fit for private events.
What is your favourite part of event/wedding planning?
My favourite part of wedding planning is getting to know each couple one by one, learning about what they like and building a relationship they can trust to have their most special day in my hands.
Who do you look up to/who inspires you?
Our General Manager, Scott Weatherup, inspires me. He has worked for Hastings Hotels for a long time, and seeing how he works and interacts with all our guests inspires me to be like him.
What’s your greatest passion outside work and family?
My greatest passion outside work and family is seeing and doing new things and adventuring whenever I can. I love visiting new places and making memories.
What makes you proud about working for Hastings Hotels?
I’m proud to work for Hastings Hotels because of the team we have here at Ballygally Castle. We work closely together to make sure every event and wedding day goes beyond everyone’s expectations.











