If I could bottle Mary and Pete’s love story, I’d be a very rich girleen.
But since I can’t, I’ll just tell you all about their absolutely gorgeous wedding instead. Picture this: a sunny day in West Cork (yes, the sun does shine there occasionally), a historic mansion, a oldie worldly hotel, and a couple so loved-up they’d make Hugh Grant and Julia Roberts blush.
I remember when Mary first reached out to me, and we couldn't get our schedules to match with the Canadian/Irish time differences, so I suggested using WhatsApp voice notes to converse. The minute I heard Mary speak, I just knew in my heart of hearts, I wanted to be part of this wedding. Mary's a talker like myself and I knew it was a match made in heaven. Anyone who has met Mary and Pete will attest that they're one of the nicest couples ever and it was a real privilege to be part of their wedding day.
Editorial & Fine Art Photography
As a luxury wedding photographer in Cork, I’ve seen my fair share of stunning weddings, but this one? This one was special. It was like Marian Keyes wrote the script and Tommy Tiernan provided the witty commentary. Let’s dive in, shall we?
West Cork natives Mary and Pete, flew home from Canada to say 'I do' on home soil and boy did the weather deliver!
A Wedding So Lovely, It’ll Make You Want to Elope to Bantry House
The Venues – Fancy Pants Alert
Mary and Pete didn’t just pick any old venues for their big day. Oh no, they went full luxury destination wedding venue in Ireland mode.
- Bantry House: This place is basically the Beyoncé of wedding venues. It’s got history, it’s got gardens, it’s got a Blue Room that’s bluer than Tommy Tiernan’s jokes about Irish weather. Mary and Pete tied the knot here, and let me tell you, it was like something out of a Jane Austen novel—except with less drama and more Prosecco.
- The Eccles Hotel: After the ceremony, the gang headed to The Eccles Hotel in Glengarriff. This place is the kind of spot where you half expect a butler named Jeeves to offer you a cigar. It’s old school luxurious yet it’s cozy in a homely way, and it’s got views that’ll make you forget about your crippling mortgage. It's a gorgeous spot for wedding photos.
Bantry HOuse wedding photos by Sarah Kate photography
The Ceremony – Celtic HAND FASTING, Ring Warming, and All the Feels
Mary and Pete’s ceremony was a mix of tradition and personal touches (Which I fricking love). They had a hand fasting ceremony (which, for the unaware, is where the saying “tying the knot" originates from) and a ring warming ritual, where their rings were passed around for good luck.
The ceremony took place in the Blue Room in Bantry House, which is about as extravagant as it gets. As a luxury wedding photographer in Ireland, I was there to capture every tear, every laugh, and every awkward moment when someone’s phone went off during the vows. (It’s always the uncle, isn’t it?)
The Reception – Prosecco, Dinner, and a Whole Lot of Craic
The reception at The Eccles Hotel was the kind of party where you leave with sore cheeks from smiling so much. Mary and Pete kept it intimate with just 35 guests and one very well-behaved baby.
They kicked things off with a prosecco reception—because nothing says “we’re married” like bubbles and tiny sandwiches. Dinner was served at 3:30 pm, which is either very early or very late, depending on your relationship with brunch.
The couple’s priorities were clear: family, good food, great wine, and a bit of the outdoors. And let me tell you, The Eccles Hotel delivered. The food was divine, the wine flowed like a river, and the craic was mighty.
THE PHOTOS – BECAUSE MEMORIES FADE, BUT wedding pictures ARE FOREVER girls
As their chosen Cork wedding photographer, my job was to capture the magic of their day. And boy, was there magic.
From the emotional moments of the wedding ceremony itself (cue all the tears and laughter) to the stunning couple shots in Bantry House’s stunning garden, every detail was documented.
We even snuck in some shots by the sea because, as Mary said, “We love the outdoors, and if we don’t get a photo by the water, did the wedding even happen?”
5 star Sarah Kate Photography reviews
Omg Sarah Kate! Those are perfect!!! Thank you so so much!!!!!! ❤️
Sarah Kate's Final Thoughts
A summer Wedding to Remember
Mary and Pete’s wedding was a beautiful reminder of what truly matters: love, family, and creating memories that last a lifetime.
These kinda weddings fill my cup up to the very brim with happiness and it was an absolute joy to of.
If you’re planning a destination wedding in Ireland, consider Bantry House and The Eccles Hotel for a day as magical as theirs.
And if you’re looking for a luxury wedding photographer in Ireland to capture your special day, I’d be honoured to help you tell your love story.
To book one of Ireland's best wedding photographers - Contact Me
FAQs About Booking a Wedding at Bantry House (Because You Know You Want To)
1. Why should I get married at Bantry House?
Because it’s basically Downton Abbey, but with better Wi-Fi. It’s one of Cork’s most luxurious wedding venues, and it’s perfect for couples who want a mix of history, elegance, and stunning views.
2. Can I have a small wedding at Bantry House?
Absolutely! Mary and Pete’s wedding was an intimate affair with just 35 guests. Bantry House is perfect for couples who want a smaller, more personal celebration.
3. What’s the deal with the photography at Bantry House?
As one of Cork’s best wedding photographers, I highly recommend taking advantage of the venue’s stunning gardens and historic interiors. Golden hour shots are particularly magical here.
4. How early should I book Bantry House?
As early as possible, especially if you’re planning a summer wedding. Popular venues like Bantry House get booked up faster than Taylor Swift sells out a gig and thats a FACT.
5. Can I have my reception at Bantry House too?
You can, the venue is available for exclusive hire, but many couples choose to have their reception at nearby venues like The Eccles Hotel. It’s just a short drive away, and it’s the perfect spot for a swanky after-party.
