EDITORIAL & FINE ART PHOTOGRAPHY
A wild celebration of love in Gougane Barra and Seaview House:
On May 24, 2024, Kate and Kevin celebrated their love story in two of West Cork’s most stunning locations: St Finbarr's Oratory in Gougane Barra and Seaview House Hotel in Ballylickey.
I was lucky enough to have meet these two for an engagement photoshoot in Sheep's Head ahead of their wedding and we developed a really close bond that lasts to this day.
For couples dreaming of a wedding that combines Ireland’s natural beauty with a relaxed old school Irish wedding venue, then perhaps is the perfect blueprint for you.
As a photographer in Cork, specialising in capturing weddings in West Cork, it was a joy to document their magical day, I think you can tell from the photos how much fun we had, but I'll leave you scroll away and Im ear to hear your thoughts.
Bridal and Groom Prep photos the morning of the wedding at Seaview House
The day began at the charming Seaview House Hotel in Ballylickey, a luxurious haven nestled in the heart of West Cork. Both Kate and Kevin prepared for their wedding here, surrounded by their bridal party and family. Kate’s morning was a vision of calm and excitement as Joanne Sexton worked her magic with makeup and Jane from Dublin styled her hair to perfection.
Kate wore a breathtaking Caroline Castigliano gown from The White Room Mullingar, paired with elegant accessories and a veil that added timeless sophistication. Kevin and his groomsmen looked sharp in custom-made suits from Moss Bros, setting a tone of effortless elegance for the day ahead.
We had Clare native Camin on video from Eden Vale Wedding Films, and it was a pleasure to work with him
Seaview House Hotel & Gougane Barra Wedding Photos
A tearful ceremony at Gougane Barra
The ceremony took place at the historic church in Gougane Barra, one of the most romantic wedding venues in Cork. Kate arrived right on time—2 PM sharp which was our aim going into the wedding— only to meet an emotional Kevin at the top of the altar.
Framed by the picturesque lake of Gougane Barra, their church wedding was filled with heartfelt moments and lots of laughter, the ceremony was overseen by family friend Father Billy Swan. Te ceremony photos from Gougane Barra are below.
Kate and Kevin’s two cute little dogs, Lillibet and Harry, were honorary guests (Just don't tell the priest as I don't think pets are allowed), which added a pawfect touch to the ceremony (I'll get my coat). This setting, with its picture perfect views, is why many couples searching for wedding photographers in Cork choose Gougane Barra for their big day.
We stopped off at Cronin's Bar & Cafe for some tea and sandwiches, and we may or may not have popped some champagne and thrown a little environmentally friendly confetti too.
Gougane Barra Wedding Photos by Sarah Kate Photography
A rambunctious wedding reception at Seaview House Hotel
After the ceremony, guests returned to Seaview House Hotel for a reception that perfectly reflected the couple’s style. The all-white decor, designed with florals by Kenmare Flowers, created an atmosphere of sophisticated elegance.
Kate and Kevin’s wedding cake, lovingly baked by Kate’s mother, was both a visual centerpiece and a sweet treat for guests. Kate and Kevin's friends and family really know how to embrace a party and after the outdoor speeches on a warm May evening, much craic was had, the photos really captured the candid, natural vibe of the day. With live music provided by Blessed Band, the celebration was filled with laughter and dancing, though Kate and Kevin chose to skip the traditional first dance, keeping the vibe light and fun with lots of blow up accessories (This sounds worse than what it is ha).
Wedding Videographer at Seaview House Hotel
3 Things That Really Stood Out to Me from Kate and Kevin’s Wedding
- The whole weekend was were filled with warmth and laughter. Both Kate and Kevin got ready at the charming & had their reception their too Seaview House Hotel in Ballylickey, surrounded by their bridal party, family (most of which had travelled down from Dublin), and their two beloved dogs, Harry and Lillibet. The morning was relaxed yet full of excitement, setting the perfect tone for the day ahead. It was easy to tell how important family is to these two and every single guest played an invaluable part in making their dream day come true
- Kate’s stunning Caroline Castigliano gown. The classic design paired with her veil from The White Rooms Mullingar was breathtaking. Not only did it look incredible in person, and I'm not going to lie here but I did tear up when I saw her in it, but it also photographed so, so beautifully against the picturesque backdrops of Gougane Barra and Seaview House.
- The bride and groom portraits at Gougane Barra. The natural beauty of this iconic location combined with Kate and Kevin's easygoing vibe allowed me to capture candid, authentic moments. The sunset session later at Seaview House added a touch of magic that truly highlighted their connection. It's in stark contract to their home in Dublin so they incorporated a morning dip at Snave Pier and a day two boat trip to Whiddy Island where, I've heard the Pub doest close.
Kate and Kevin’s wedding was a beautiful blend of craic, family, and documenting timeless wedding photos in charm of West Cork. It was a joy to capture their day and witness the love and happiness shared by them and their guests.
Contact Me
If you would like to book me as your wedding photographer in West Cork, get in touch with me here. I’d love to get to know you and would be delighted to send you my wedding packages. From Ballycotton to Bantry, to Dunmore, to Schull, as Corks best wedding photographer, I've got you covered.
