Aoife and Shane at Lisloughrey Lodge

Just a couple of weekend’s ago a serious case of déjá vu – you know, everything was just of familiar. Mind you, it wasn’t déjá vu at all. The reason for it was that Aoife, our lovely bride, was the bridesmaid to the lovely Yvonne just a few months back and now Yvonne was having her go at becoming a bridesmaid. As for me, well, I was just there to photograph again. Always the photographer, never the bride. Phew.

I have to share this small little story. I hadn’t arrived long when Aoife had told me that she’d asked Yvonne to bring her wedding album with her but Yvonne declined as she didn’t want it to interfere with Aoife’s day. Very thoughtful of her I might add. Yours truly was not so bashful though “I have it in the car – Yvonne’s book is my new demo book!” Aoife TOLD me to go and get it so I kindly obliged. So for the next while it was quite odd to sit and watch as everyone had a look through spotting people they knew and of course themselves. No wedding day for me has started like that that’s for sure.

There was a real buzz in the house and everyone had their jobs. Aoife’s mum and friend were busy with hairdryers taking out some final creases from her gorgeous dress. And no-one was meant more for this dress than Aoife. What a fit. It was so different and unusual that even I found myself lowering my camera and saying “Wow.. ” before quickly getting back to the act of photographing!

The ceremony was held in the magnificent Tuam Cathedral and it’s a testament to the priest that he made it feel intimate and personal in such a large building. I love big cathedrals. Lots of room to move and hide away without being noticed.

The reception was about an hours drive away in Lisloughrey Lodge in Ashford. With the long drive light was starting to fade fast but lucky for us Aoife knew just the spot for us to get some bridal party shots. We went to the old Cong Abbey and I think we timed it perfectly. The sun was low so offered plenty of good soft flare which just looks utterly gorgeous.

Then it was off to Lisloughrey Lodge to party the night away and with Ireland beating Scotland in the 6 Nations spirits were high. One of the highlights and a surprise for everyone was the fire eating show after the speeches! I’ve only seen this done once before but it was pouring with rain which didn’t help. Tonight though it was perfect and a wonderful show was put on. So with everyone well and truly warmed up the dance floor was now ready for hitting and hit it they did. I lost count of the number of times I thought I was going to get whacked by flying arms and fists but I can duck and dive with the best of them

I hope you really enjoy this superb wedding and a big massive thanks to Aoife and Shane for allowing me to share their wonderful day!