Lyndsay and Sean - An intimate wedding in Dublin by Sarah Kate Photography
Lyndsay and Sean’s journey to "I do" in Ireland began in the most quintessentially modern yet nostalgic way. They first met on a beach in Long Branch, NJ, thanks to mutual friends, and soon found themselves captivated by each other on the car ride back to Manhattan. From there, their romance unfolded with a flurry of thoughtful Spotify playlists Sean created for Lindsay, each with themes like "Astronaut Punk" and "Paris People Watching." It was a throwback that made her heart skip a beat.
Fast forward through New Year's in San Francisco, pandemic-induced lockdowns, and plenty of adventure, Lindsay and Sean have built a life together that balances jamming out to music, spontaneous travels, and Zoom meetings.
Why choose the Shelbourne Hotel for your wedding venue in Ireland?
With Sean’s history of studying at the prestigious Trinity College Dublin, choosing Ireland—and specifically the elegant Shelbourne Hotel—for their wedding was a nod to the foundation of their relationship and Irish heritage. The Shelbourne made planning a breeze by handling everything onsite—from the ceremony to the florals, hair, and makeup—allowing Lindsay and Sean to fully savour the experience and to add to that Dublin looked especially beautiful in the autumn colours, with St. Stephen's Green stunningly rich in fall hues, giving it such cozy vibes.
As I had photographed their engagement session in Killarney, the wedding day felt less like a job and more like a celebration with old friends. Being part of their story made it easier to help them navigate the unique challenges of planning a destination wedding.
Whether capturing candid moments or scenic backdrops, their day at the Shelbourne felt like the perfect continuation of a love story that started in such a serendipitous way, stuff like this totally melts by heart btw and I may or may not have been crying at the wedding.
For other American couples dreaming of a wedding in Ireland, having a photographer, aka Sarah Kate Photography who knows both the Irish landscape and the unique moments of your love story can make all the difference.
5 Tips for Choosing Dublin City for a Dream Destination Wedding
- Choose Historic and unique City Wedding, Dublin is filled with venues that blend elegance and rich history. The Shelbourne Hotel offers classic charm in the heart of the city, with the added benefit of scenic spots like St. Stephen’s Green for stunning seasonal photos.
- Explore Nearby Castle Venues: Dublin’s location provides easy access to incredible castle venues just 45 minutes away, allowing you to capture that storybook feel. Consider venues like Luttrellstown Castle with its grand ballroom and lush gardens, 0r nearby Tankardstown House, Meath, or the uptime in luxury Powerscourt House and Gardens, Wicklow
- Book an exclusive Luxury Wedding Venue like not other: Ireland is home to some of the world's most exclusive and luxurious wedding venues all within a few hours drive from Dublin or Shannon airport, each offering an unparalleled blend of history, timelessness, elegance, and breathtaking surroundings. Ballyfin, possibly one of the most well know hotels in Ireland is meticulously restored Regency mansion, provides a private, opulent setting with its grand interiors and sprawling estate. Adare Manor, an award-winning neo-Gothic masterpiece, offers an unrivaled combination of grandeur and modern amenities, nestled in the heart of County Limerick. Cashel Palace exudes timeless sophistication with its elegant Georgian architecture and views of the iconic Rock of Cashel. Meanwhile, Ballynahinch Castle, set amidst the rugged beauty of Connemara, combines authentic charm with luxury, offering couples the romance of a historic castle surrounded by serene lakes and woodlands. Each of these venues delivers a wedding experience that is as unique and magical as Ireland itself.
- Let the Venue Coordinate Local Wedding Vendors: Many top Dublin venues, including the Shelbourne, offer in-house coordination for florals, makeup, and ceremony arrangements, making it easy for couples traveling from abroad to enjoy a seamless experience. Alternatively I supply all my clients with a tailored vendor list too. Or you could hire one of the many lovely wedding planners to coordinate everything for you, and don't worry, I also have a list of these too.
- Plan for the seasons in Dublin City: Dublin in autumn is magical, with stunning colours in city parks like St. Stephen’s Green and the ivy-covered Georgian buildings. For summer weddings, enjoy the city’s lively outdoor spaces, while winter weddings offer cozy, historic charm.
- Take Advantage of Dublin’s Accessibility via Dublin Airport: Dublin offers convenient access for guests traveling from the U.S. with direct flights from major American cities. Once here, guests can explore both the city and nearby Irish countryside, giving them a complete Irish experience.
Dublin offers the perfect mix of sophistication, history, charm and natural beauty, making it ideal for couples dreaming of an unforgettable Irish wedding.
