Shane & Sarah’s Wedding: A Cork & Limerick Love Story at Aherlow House Hotel
Shane, a proud Limerick man, and Sarah, a stunning Cork woman, tied the knot at the picturesque Aherlow House Hotel, with the Galtee Mountains as a breathtaking backdrop. Their wedding wasn’t just a celebration of love but also a tribute to their Irish heritage, with the scenic beauty of Tipperary on full display. The weather gods were smiling that day, casting sunlight over the majestic landscape, and proving once again why Ireland is one of the most beautiful countries on earth.
Shane and Sarah are two of the most down-to-earth people you could ever meet. They are the type of couple who go out of their way to help others, embodying kindness and warmth. Their love for Gaelic games has been a strong foundation for their relationship, bonding them closer with each GAA season. So, it’s only fitting that their wedding, much like their love, reflected the rich culture of Ireland and the GAA spirit.
As with every wedding, the choice of venue is vital, and the Aherlow House Hotel was the perfect choice for this couple. Nestled at the foothills of the Galtee Mountains, it provided a natural, earthy feel, reflective of Shane and Sarah’s love for the great outdoors. The hotel’s panoramic views over the valleys and peaks gave their wedding a magical ambiance, making every moment picture-perfect for me, as their wedding photographer.
The Stunning Blue Dress
Sarah’s wedding dress was anything but traditional. Instead of the classic white, she wore a dazzling blue gown designed by Wardrobe by Dulcinea. The moment she stepped into the sunlight, the dress shimmered and seemed to change colors, moving through different shades of blue as the light hit it just right. This made for some of the most visually striking images I’ve ever captured as a wedding photographer in Ireland. The unique dress choice showed off Sarah’s personality perfectly—a blend of elegance, boldness, and beauty.
As the ceremony began, Shane and Sarah stood on the balcony of Aherlow House Hotel, exchanging vows they had written themselves. Their words brought tears to many of the guests, a few even to me as I tried to hide my emotion behind the camera. Their vows were heartfelt, reflecting a deep connection built on years of shared memories, from GAA matches to quiet moments together in the countryside.
A Day of Sunshine and Laughter
The weather on Shane and Sarah's wedding day was nothing short of spectacular. Standing on the balcony of the Aherlow House Hotel, with the Galtee Mountains as a breathtaking backdrop, the Irish sun shone down in all its glory. It was one of those rare, perfect days where you couldn't help but appreciate the sheer beauty of Ireland. Guests were basking in the warm sunlight, with many reaching for the factor 50 sun cream to keep the rays at bay as they enjoyed the outdoor ceremony.
As the day continued, the golden sun illuminated every corner of the stunning venue, casting a warm, inviting glow over the celebrations. After the ceremony, we ventured a few kilometers away to the iconic Christ the King statue, nestled at the foot of the Galtee Mountains. This spot wasn’t just a picturesque location—it held deep personal meaning for Shane and Sarah. In the distance, the mountain where Shane proposed stood tall, a silent witness to their love story.
By the time we returned to Aherlow House Hotel, the festivities were in full swing. Laughter and joy filled the air as friends and family celebrated the newlyweds. But the true magic happened later in the evening when the sun began its slow descent behind the mountains.
The Perfect First Dance to The Voyage
As the sun set and the warm golden light faded, Shane and Sarah took to the dance floor for their first dance as husband and wife. They chose The Voyage by Christy Moore, a song filled with deep meaning and perfectly fitting for their journey together. The outdoor setting, with the Galtee Mountains in the background and the last traces of sunlight disappearing, made for an unforgettable, emotional moment.
Guests watched, captivated, as Shane and Sarah held each other close, swaying to the rhythm of the music. The lyrics of The Voyage seemed to echo their own story—a journey filled with love, laughter, and the promise of a bright future. As the couple danced, you could feel the warmth of the day slowly giving way to the coolness of the night, but the glow of their love was undeniable. The setting sun, the gentle breeze, and the breathtaking landscape all came together to create a magical scene that felt like something out of a fairytale.
Thank You, Aherlow House Hotel
Once again, I can’t thank Aherlow House Hotel enough for making this day so special. The staff’s attention to detail, their warmth, and their professionalism were second to none. Every aspect of the day was handled with care, from the gorgeous setup for the outdoor ceremony .
The panoramic views, the incredible service, and the natural beauty of the venue made it a dream wedding location. Aherlow House Hotel truly is one of the best wedding venues in Ireland, and I can’t wait to return for another wedding here in the future.
Shane and Sarah’s wedding at Aherlow House Hotel was a day full of love, laughter, and unforgettable moments. As their photographer, I felt honored to capture such beautiful memories for a couple who are as kind and genuine as they come. Between the stunning views of the Galtee Mountains, the heartfelt vows, and the incredible first dance at sunset, this wedding had it all.
I wish Shane and Sarah a lifetime of happiness, and I know that their love story will only grow stronger with each passing day—just like their shared passion for the GAA!