Money can't buy you everything but it seems it may bring luck for the only daughter of billionaire racing tycoon JP McManus, who married her college sweetheart Cian Foley on the eve of his 27th birthday.

The picturesque church in Martinstown, Co Limerick was the perfect setting for the marriage ceremony, which took place a stone's throw from the McManus's 500-acre stud farm.

With a floral bill alone of 850,000, nothing was spared for the lavish event, which attracted some of the wealthiest names in business and sporting circles.

The beautiful bride arrived 30 minutes late yesterday and pulled up to the church at 2.30pm in a black seven-series BMW accompanied by her father.

The 26-year-old looked stunning in a white fulllength strapless dress by Limerick designer Synan O'Mahoney, which had elaborate lace detail and a short two-foot train.

Both father and daughter were happy to pose for photographers before they went into the church and they received a warm applause from a group of locals who had gathered to witness the big event.

The groom arrived at 1.45pm with his groomsmen in a silver five-series BMW.

Just 200 guests were invited to the church ceremony while the rest of the 1,500 guests were told to go directly to the reception, which started at 6pm yesterday evening.

Some of the church guests did not make the ceremony, however, due to the funeral of Maurice Power, the father of JP's close friend and solicitor John Power, who died on Friday.

Among those spotted at the church was singer Andrea Corr who wore a long purple dress with a black wrap. She was accompanied by boyfriend Brett Desmond, son of Dermot, who arrived at the church after the bride had gone in. John Magnier and his family were also in attendance along with Charlie Swan and many well-known names from Limerick GAA circles.

Music at the mass was provided by singer Kate Lynch, a school friend of Sue-Ann's from the Ursuline Convent in Thurles. The singer did a special version of Ireland's Call at the request of the rugby- mad groom, who used to play for Limerick rugby team Garryowen.

After the ceremony the newlyweds were whisked off to Martinstown Stud for an intimate champagne reception before the main event started.