I made two banners (one for each night), not thinking that the one used on the first night would need to be displayed again for consistency on the last night of filming. Ned O'Hanlon asked that we hold up the white banner both nights, and sit in the same seats both nights. We followed his request, even wearing the same clothes on both nights for consistency.

 

I believe the entire group from the USA signed both banners, with personal notes from each to Celtic Woman. My intention for the banners was to share a Christmas greeting by fans from the USA, and ultimately present the banners to the girls, or whomever could pass them to the girls later. As you know, there was no Meet and Greet, so our short but cherished glimpses of the girls was not a good opportunity to pass the banners to them. But many of us had the opportunity to meet and talk at length with Méav's mother and father. After the second night, we presented the banners to Méav's mom and asked that she share them with the Celtic Woman ladies. She kindly accepted and even seemed pleased that we asked her to be the messenger.

After the second night, I had a chat with David Downes, who made himself quite available both nights, as did Scott Porter, Ray, Nicky and his wife, and Dez. We were all thrilled with the chance to greet these fine musicians and their associates.

One more side note: I had the pleasure of meeting Adele King (Twink), and Chloe's sister on the second night. Twink has saved a book of my photos from the filming of "A New Journey", that I gave to all of the girls in Little Rock. I had my photos published in books and gave all six girls and David a copy of the book. Twink was so nice and said that Chloe would keep the book with her many awards forever.


CLICK HERE to read Mel's detailed review of her CW experience in Dublin.