A Year of Impact: How Larchfield Estate Weddings in Northern Ireland Are Changing Lives Through CSR

Just over a year ago Sarah Mackie, one of the owners of family run Larchfield Estate sat next to the amazing Dave Linton of Madlug at a LCCC Business Event. Blown away by the phenomenal work that the team at Madlug do, Larchfield Estate immediately went into partnership with Madlug, ordering bags that could be given to couples as a wedding gift. Now that a sister company Think Storage has been launched (www.think-storage.co.uk) Gavin and Sarah further support Madlug with free self-storage units for stock of bags. This weeks Guest Blog is written by Dave Linton, CEO and Founder of Madlug.

It’s hard to believe it’s already been a year since we embarked on a truly special journey with the wonderful team at Larchfield Estate, nestled right here in County Down, Northern Ireland. Twelve months ago, we officially launched a partnership that has woven the magic of giving into the heart of many wedding celebrations and corporate events. As we mark this significant one-year anniversary, we're bursting with gratitude and pride for every couple, every business, every event, and every bag gifted.

Why CSR Matters to Us All

At Madlug, our mission is simple, yet profoundly impactful: to bring dignity and hope to children and young people in the care system. We believe every child deserves to move with dignity, carrying their belongings in a proper bag, not a bin bag. This heartbreaking reality was the driving force when I founded Madlug.

Our social enterprise model is built on one powerful promise: "For every Madlug bag purchased, a bag is given to a child in care." Thanks to amazing, like-minded partners such as Larchfield Estate, we’ve extended that promise in the most beautiful way imaginable – through the celebration of love, success, and connection.

One Venue, Many Ways to Make a Difference

This past year has not just been about gifting bags; it has been about shifting perspectives, fostering a deeper sense of community, and proving that even the most joyful occasions can carry a profound social purpose. Every Larchfield wedding and many corporate events have become ripples in a growing wave of dignity for young lives.

From our very first conversation, it was abundantly clear that Larchfield Estate shared our core values and vision for making a tangible, positive difference. Set amidst the picturesque landscape of County Down, Larchfield isn’t merely one of Northern Ireland’s most exquisite wedding and event venues; it’s a place where celebrations are imbued with warmth, meticulous care, and a heartfelt commitment to values that extend far beyond its stunning grounds.

The Story Behind the Bag

Before we reflect on the extraordinary impact of this partnership, it’s vital to understand why a bag matters so much. Imagine being a child, moving from one temporary home to another, with all your possessions – your clothes, toys, and keepsakes – crammed into a flimsy black bin bag. This is not just about practicality; it’s a painful symbol of being unwanted, treated as disposable.

A Madlug pack-away travel bag is more than fabric and zippers. Inside every bag is a quiet but powerful message: "You are incredible." It tells the child they are seen, valued, and matter — and it restores dignity at a time they need it most.

A Year of Real-World Results

Over the past year, every couple who has celebrated their wedding at Larchfield has received a beautiful Madlug roll-top co-branded Larchfield bag. Every one of those gifted bags has provided a pack-away travel bag to a child in care across the UK and Ireland.

For corporate clients choosing Larchfield Estate for away days, conferences, or product launches, your booking also supports this ongoing initiative. While the gifting mechanism may be linked to weddings, your choice of venue actively sustains the partnership, helping us deliver more bags and continue our vital work.

The Power of Partnership

Larchfield Estate isn’t just a luxury barn wedding venue in Northern Ireland or a stunning corporate retreat; it’s a business that actively integrates social responsibility into its operations. Each celebration here contributes to our shared goal: ensuring every child in care moves with dignity.

This is what true CSR looks like — where success and social impact go hand in hand. It’s inspiring for us at Madlug to work alongside a team that sees every booking as an opportunity to create lasting, positive change.

Thank You — And an Invitation

To every couple, business, and organisation that has chosen Larchfield Estate over the past year: thank you. Your decision has touched lives in ways you may never fully realise. And to those planning future weddings, team-building retreats, or corporate events, we invite you to choose a venue that not only delivers exceptional experiences but also makes a meaningful difference.

By choosing Larchfield Estate in County Down, Northern Ireland, you’re not just selecting a breathtaking location — you’re aligning with a cause that changes lives.

Want to learn more about Madlug and our mission, or even purchase a bag to directly support a child? Visit Madlug’s About Us Page or Shop
Ready to plan your meaningful wedding or corporate event at Larchfield Estate? Enquire Now  or take a Virtual Tour