A Fun-Filled Wedding at Castletroy Park Hotel: Stuart & Dawn’s Unforgettable Day
I have to start this blog by giving a huge shout-out to the incredible team at Castletroy Park Hotel for making Stuart and Dawn’s wedding an absolute dream come true. From the moment I arrived, it was clear that the staff were not only experts at what they do but genuinely passionate about making every detail perfect. Whether it was the beautiful outdoor setup that was created with such care before the weather turned or the seamless transition indoors when the rain started, the team handled everything with professionalism, grace, and a smile.
But it wasn't just about the logistics—the warmth and friendliness of the staff truly stood out. They didn’t just treat me and the guests like customers; they treated us like family. Their attention to detail was second to none, and they went above and beyond to ensure that the entire day flowed effortlessly. Even when it started to rain just minutes before Dawn was set to walk down the aisle, they quickly moved everything indoors without skipping a beat, keeping the energy high and the mood joyful.
I can’t thank the Castletroy Park Hotel team enough for their dedication, enthusiasm, and impeccable service. You all helped create a day that was filled with love, laughter, and endless memories. Stuart and Dawn’s wedding was nothing short of magical, and that was in no small part thanks to each and every one of you. Thank you for making the day unforgettable, not just for the couple, but for everyone who was lucky enough to be a part of it—including me!
The wedding of Stuart and Dawn at the Castletroy Park Hotel in Limerick was one for the books—an unforgettable day that was packed with laughter, love, and a whole lot of banter. Stuart and Dawn, high school sweethearts who had been together forever, finally walked down the aisle and said "I do" in front of their closest family and friends. The setting was picturesque, but the real magic came from the joy and energy that radiated throughout the day.
The morning started with a visit to Stuart's parents' house, and let me tell you, the atmosphere was electric. The wedding was set just one day before the much-anticipated All-Ireland Hurling semi-final between Limerick and Cork, and the rivalry was alive and kicking. Stuart and his family are from Limerick, and they were quick to remind me of their county’s dominance in hurling over the last four years, even boasting about going for a fifth All-Ireland win in a row. Being a Cork man myself, I took the good-natured slagging in stride, all the while throwing a few jokes back their way about Cork's resurgence. This playful banter set the tone for the rest of the day—full of fun, laughter, and connection.
Stuart’s groomsmen were in great form too. We joked and laughed through the morning as they got ready, capturing candid moments of genuine emotion and excitement. These are the moments I live for as a wedding photographer in Limerick, Cork, and beyond—those fleeting instances of pure joy that make every wedding unique. Stuart and his crew were more than up for the craic, and I knew the day was going to be a great one from the start.
Next, I headed over to the Castletroy Park Hotel where Dawn and her bridesmaids were getting ready. If I thought the guys were up for a laugh, I was in for a surprise with Dawn's side of the wedding party. Her bridesmaids were a lively bunch, cracking jokes, sharing stories, and generally creating an atmosphere of excitement. Dawn herself was glowing, and you could see how excited she was to finally marry the love of her life.
We had a bit of a hiccup right before Dawn was set to walk down the aisle. The wedding was planned as an outdoor ceremony, with a stunning setup in the hotel’s garden, but as is often the case with Irish weather, the skies decided to open up and it started to rain—just minutes before the ceremony! The amazing staff at the Castletroy Park Hotel were quick on their feet, moving everything indoors in record time. Not that it mattered—the atmosphere was so positive that a little rain couldn’t dampen anyone’s spirits.
Once the ceremony began, it was all about love, joy, and a few happy tears. Stuart and Dawn’s connection was undeniable, and their wedding day was a beautiful reflection of their long-standing relationship. Their story—full of laughter, love, and a shared history—reminded me why I love being a wedding photographer in Ireland. The ceremony was intimate and filled with emotion, but also light-hearted, with jokes flying from both sides of the aisle.
The reception was where the fun really kicked into high gear. Every time I walked through the room, someone would grab me to talk about the upcoming hurling match. "We’re going to hammer ye on Sunday!" they’d say, and we’d all burst into laughter. Even though I was getting plenty of slagging from the Limerick crowd, it was all in good fun, and I was happy to be part of it. It’s these moments of connection and shared laughter that make weddings in Limerick and Cork so special.
The first dance was magical. Stuart and Dawn chose "I Found You" by Stephen Sanchez for their first dance, a perfect choice that had everyone swaying and tearing up. The day had been all about joy, and this moment was no exception. You could see how much they loved each other, and I was lucky to be there capturing every candid smile and heartfelt glance.
And the cherry on top? The day after the wedding, I was sitting down to start editing their photos when Cork pulled off a stunning upset, beating Limerick in the semi-final! Was it fate? Who knows—but I couldn’t help but smile, remembering all the banter from the day before. Knowing that the wedding party was likely still celebrating the wedding (and now maybe commiserating over the hurling loss) gave me an extra sense of satisfaction as I worked through their wedding gallery.
Reflecting on Stuart and Dawn’s day, it’s easy to see why I love being a wedding photographer in Ireland. From Kerry weddings to Limerick wedding photography, each celebration has its own unique story, and capturing those stories in a way that feels natural and authentic is what I do best. Stuart and Dawn’s wedding will always stand out to me—not just for the laughter and the craic, but for the genuine love and warmth that filled every corner of the day.
Their wedding was everything I love about what I do: candid moments, real emotions, and a whole lot of fun. Whether you’re planning a wedding in West Cork, Killarney, or Limerick, I can’t wait to capture your special day with the same passion and excitement that I brought to Stuart and Dawn’s wedding. No matter the venue, the weather, or even the hurling rivalry, I’m always ready for the next adventure!