The Craíc was had, Aisling & Jonathans story
Aisling and Jonathan's wedding in Cork was the epitome of what the Irish call "the craic was 90," meaning the fun and joy of the day were at their peak. The day began with a minor mix-up when I accidentally showed up at Aisling’s house first instead of Jonathan’s. Aisling, being the fun-loving bride she is, welcomed me with open arms into her kitchen. Almost instantly, we were laughing and bantering as if we had known each other for years. But, after a brief moment, Aisling pointed out with a smile that I was supposed to be at Jonathan's first. No harm done, as Jonathan's house was only a seven-minute drive away.
Walking into Jonathan’s house felt just like being with old friends. The kitchen was bustling with seven groomsmen, each one ready for a laugh, and the banter flowed naturally. This is the magic of a Cork wedding—everyone is relaxed, no one takes themselves too seriously, and you’re welcomed into the fold with good humor and plenty of slagging. I felt more like a guest than a photographer, soaking up the camaraderie and capturing candid moments of the guys getting ready.
The stunning Aisling
The ceremony took place at the beautiful St. Joseph's Church in Glanmire. It was a perfect day, one of the rare sun-soaked moments we've had this summer in Ireland. The atmosphere was vibrant, with everyone in high spirits, reflecting the joy of the occasion. After the heartfelt ceremony, we made our way to Lakemount Gardens on Barnavara Hill. This hidden gem is like a secret garden, with vibrant colors and pathways that feel like stepping into a fairytale. The owner graciously allowed us to explore, capturing breathtaking wedding portraits amid the stunning backdrop.
From there, we returned to The Oriel House Hotel in Ballincollig, a venue that never disappoints. The warm welcome from the staff set the tone for the evening. With over 150 guests, including the bridal party and both families, the reception was a blend of laughter, love, and heartfelt moments. It truly felt like photographing friends, not clients, as everyone was so warm and inclusive.
One of the most memorable moments of the evening was Jonathan and Aisling’s first dance. Jonathan’s father surprised everyone by taking the stage with the band, singing Can’t Help Falling in Love With You. The emotion was palpable, with Jonathan's pride evident as his father sang. There wasn’t a dry eye in the house. This moment, combined with the perfect weather, the beauty of the gardens, the warmth of the people, and the hospitality of The Oriel House, made Aisling and Jonathan's wedding day truly unforgettable.
It’s days like this that remind me why I love being a wedding photographer in Cork. The ability to capture these real, authentic moments is why I’m passionate about wedding photography. Whether it’s cinematic photography, candid shots, or documentary-style photography, my goal is always to tell the true story of the day.
If you're planning a wedding in Cork, Killarney, or anywhere in Ireland and looking for a documentary wedding photographer who will blend seamlessly into your day, capturing every heartfelt moment, let’s chat. With options for photo wedding albums, wedding film and photography packages, and affordable wedding photography, I offer everything to make your day memorable. Just like Aisling and Jonathan, your wedding will be filled with laughter, love, and those unforgettable moments that tell the story of your life together.