Love Boat Ahoy
A Magical Destination Wedding in Gougane Barra & Killarney.
Celebrating Brittany & Stephen's cruise ship love story in Ireland's most romantic church!
A chara,
Wait until I tell ya, about this amazing Canadian Irish destination wedding I had the privilege of photographing in August 2023. My couple, Brittany and Stephen decided to tie the knot in a breathtaking location called Gougane Barra in Ireland. If you haven't been there, this place is straight out of a fairytale. Add it to the bucket list, fo shiz.
It's a secluded spot surrounded by mountains and a stunning lake. Talk about a dreamy setting for a wedding, bridal prep was in the quaint Gougane Barra Hotel, and the bridal suite overlooked the church, it was to die for! The ceremony itself was beautiful, simple yet sweet. The couple exchanged vows under an ancient and picturesque church that overlooks the lake. The guests made the most of the surroundings for selfies I have to admit, and no matter how many times I visit Gougane, I still find it magical. So no shade from me!
He was like the cat who got the cream!
The love between these two was palpable (not in the hot and heavy way in case you get any notions!), and it was such an honour to capture those precious moments for them. After the ceremony, we grabbed a quick pint at Gougane Barra hotel before we headed over the mountains to Muckross Park Hotel for the reception. This place is the definition of luxury, from the elegant ballroom to the impeccable service, it was the perfect venue to celebrate this couple's special day. The atmosphere was filled with laughter, craic and excitement, and I made sure to capture all the laughter, tears, and dance moves (Brittany is a dancer so the dancing was out of this world)
One of the highlights of the day for me was taking romantic couple photos in the ancient Muckross Abbey, a 15th Franciscan Abbey, which is located in the stunning Killarney National Park.
The Franciscans would not have been happy with some of the things I asked my couple to do, Ha!
But having said that my couple looked absolutely stunning against the ancient stone walls and lush greenery of the park. It was like something out of a movie, and I couldn't have asked for a more perfect location to capture their love. All in all, it was an unforgettable wedding. I feel so lucky to be able to do what I love and be a part of such special moments in people's lives. It's moments like these that remind me why I became a photographer in the first place. I am truly grateful for the opportunity to capture love, joy, and happiness through my lens.
Well, that's it for now, my friend. I hope you enjoyed hearing about this incredible wedding and the stunning locations. If you ever find yourself in need of a Cork wedding photographer or looking for a Gougane Barra Wedding or Muckross Park Hotel wedding, feel free to reach out. I'd be more than happy to capture your special day too!
'Til next time feckers,
Sarah Kate
Capture Unforgettable Moments:
With Killarney's Top Wedding Photographer
Muckross Park Hotel Wedding
Muckross Park Hotel stands out as an exceptional choice for hosting your wedding, offering an enchanting blend of luxury and natural beauty. Nestled in the heart of Killarney National Park, the hotel provides a picturesque backdrop that lends a timeless and romantic atmosphere to your special day. The venue boasts elegant and versatile event spaces, allowing you to tailor your celebration to match your unique vision. The dedicated team at Muckross Park Hotel is renowned for their attention to detail and commitment to ensuring every aspect of your wedding is flawlessly executed. With award-winning cuisine, luxurious accommodations, and a serene setting, Muckross Park Hotel creates an unforgettable experience, making it an ideal destination for couples seeking a truly magical wedding celebration.
Gougane Barra Hotel Wedding
Choosing to get married in Gougane Barra, home to what is often regarded as Ireland's most romantic church, is a decision steeped in charm and allure. The quaint Church of St. Finbarr, nestled on a small island in Gougane Barra Forest Park, exudes an intimate and fairy-tale atmosphere. Surrounded by lush greenery and the tranquil waters of Gougane Barra Lake, this idyllic setting provides a magical backdrop for exchanging vows. The church's historical significance and the breathtaking natural beauty of its surroundings make it a unique and enchanting venue for a romantic ceremony. With its sense of seclusion and serene ambiance, Gougane Barra captures the essence of love, making it an extraordinary choice for couples seeking a truly romantic and memorable wedding experience in the heart of Ireland
