A few years ago there was a real buzz phrase rolling around in the wedding industry… “destination photographer.” And I’d like to be clear- I am not that. I DO enjoy shooting weddings at destinations, but I like it to be a fun and exciting exception, and not the norm. I’ve traveled to Boston, St John’s, Nantucket, Belize, and all over the southeast for work, and even more places around the world for fun. As you read about my adventures in Ireland, just know—I would LOVE to shoot your wedding there. Please, take me with you!! (But I’ll never stop loving our beautiful Southeastern weddings here in the USA too.)
When Renee, of A Wedding Collection, mentioned jetting off to Ireland to tour venues and get familiar with the wedding landscape there in TWO WEEKS, I said, “yes!!!” Renee does beautiful, impeccable weddings and I’ve had the joy of working with her at another destination location in Seaside, Florida for Donnie and Gracie’s coastal Florida wedding from the Spring. After seeing Renee drive an automatic transmission on the left side of the road all over the Irish Countryside, I am convinced that the woman can do anything!
Exploring Ireland
I hadn’t done a lot of learning or research about Ireland and you know when you have no expectations it’s often the most wonderful trip? Well that was true here. I fell in love with Dublin AND the nearby countryside. And I can’t even find the words to describe the majesty that is the cliffs along the Irish Sea. I want to show you the wedding venues we fell in love with, but also tell you about the touristing I did!
These coastal pictures come from a lovely area about 45 minutes from Dublin called Howth. I was moved by the beauty and grandeur. I really want to take my family there. The warmth of the people in Dublin, the ease of the public transportation, and the number of things to do was all I could ever ask for. I could do a whole post on my hotel, The Dean, alone. Also, I had the best Italian meal of my life at Grano. I went to The Cobblestone Pub for a traditional pint (ok, ok I had cider), and watched musicians play their Irish music and even some traditional Irish dance! Phoenix Park, is a big park where I relaxed and read a book and watched seagulls dance on a pond and oodles of flowers blow in the wind. I can’t recommend Dublin highly enough.
Now, let’s get into the venues!
Virginia Park Lodge
My favorite was Virginia Park Lodge, a 1750 Irish country house and estate. We wandered up just as it started raining. Deirdre, the general manager, and her staff were so hospitable and generous. They invited us in for the grand tour and a glass of champagne. The tree-lined drive, the exquisite landscaping…everything was so beautiful. Surrounding the stunning estate is 100 beautiful acres which includes a garden that overlooks a lake. Needless to say, between the scenery and the kind people I’m ready to go back and have my wedding, your wedding, my kids wedding….anyone!! Let’s just go. Can’t you just imagine yourself walking down this center aisle surrounded by your loved ones. It was absolutely perfect.
Luttrellstown Castle
Renee got to work a wedding at our next venue, Luttrellstown Castle. This luxurious venue is exactly what you picture when you imagine an Irish Castle. It had HUGE grounds, 567 acres to be exact, turrets at every corner, imposing stone work with intricate windows and vines draped over them. Luttrellstown Castle is grand and elegant. The ceremony on the lush lawn was a high point! I haven’t stopped dreaming about a dreamy Irish wedding here since I came home.
The bottom line is: Ireland is amazing. Renee and I are ready to go with you whenever you’re ready. Apparently, I can make it happen with just two weeks notice!
Please contact me today to start a conversation about how I can capture your beautiful memories! I can’t wait to hear from you!
You can view more gorgeous weddings and special moments I’ve captured over on the blog!
From Weddings to Parenthood and Beyond | Robina + John Through the Years
