Emma & David’s Joyful Wedding at Rochestown Park Hotel, Cork – Real, Raw, and Full of Heart
There’s something magical about an Irish wedding. Not the Pinterest-perfect version — I’m talking about the real stuff. The warm welcomes. The half-finished cups of tea. The buzz of a family home on the morning of a wedding. That’s exactly what met me on the 6th of June, 2025, at Emma’s family home in Cork.
From the moment the door opened, I was greeted with a smile and, naturally, “Will you have a cup of tea, James? You must be starving.” That’s the Irish way — no fuss, no frills, just pure soundness. Emma’s dad opened the door, clocked my bald head and said, “Ah, there he is, my long-lost twin,” laughing as he rubbed his own shiny head. That’s the tone set for the whole day: light-hearted, warm, full of real Irish craic.
Her young nieces were darting around, full of energy and charm. One of them, absolutely mad and beaming in every shot, kept jumping into frame — and honestly, I couldn’t get enough of her. Her smile is in half the gallery for good reason.
Getting Ready – Family First, Laughter Always
Hair and makeup were handled by friends of the family, which meant the house felt less like a bridal prep space and more like a reunion of soulmates who’ve known each other a lifetime.
Hair: The brilliant team at @bibahair created relaxed, natural looks with a touch of elegance.
Makeup: @blissbeautycork kept everyone glowing and calm, working her magic with a smile.
When Emma walked down the stairs in her gown from @amore_bridalwear_youghal, jaws dropped. She looked radiant — confident, graceful, and glowing with happiness.
The Ceremony – Intimate Vows in Rochestown Park Hotel
Over at the @rochestown_park_hotel, David and his crew were outside soaking up the Cork sunshine (yes, we got sun!) and enjoying a few sociables before the ceremony. David looked sharp — chilled, maybe slightly helped along by a drop of whiskey — but ready.
The ceremony took place in a beautifully styled room at the hotel, with around 20-25 close family and friends. There was laughter, heckling (“It’s about time, ye two!”), and heartfelt vows. It was intimate, emotional, and full of love.
Let the Party Begin – A Cork City Celebration
Now, here’s the bit that was pure Cork magic: the moment the ceremony ended, the floodgates opened. Friends and extended family poured into the hotel — what had started as a quiet gathering turned into a 200-person party.
In the large reception hall, guests surrounded tables, cheering the couple into the room. The speeches were hilarious, especially from David’s best friend, whose stories earned a round of applause you could probably hear across the Lee.
Everywhere I turned, it was generations of friends and family who’ve shared real life together — ups, downs, and everything in between. And tonight, they were all here to lift Emma and David up and celebrate their love.
The Details – All Love, All Local
Florist: The beautiful blooms were by @florist4u_tracey — soft, seasonal, and perfectly styled.
Cake: @bakerboycakes delivered a showstopper — both stunning and delicious.
DJ: @bertiemeehan had the whole room bouncing. Bertie doesn’t just play songs — he reads the room and delivers pure energy. The floor never emptied.
Thank You
To Emma & David — thank you for letting me into your world for a day. It was real, beautiful, and full of heart.
To your family and friends — the kindness and craic was unreal.
To the team at Rochestown Park Hotel — always on point.
To the amazing suppliers:
This was Cork at its best.
– JOD’Photography
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