Lucy and john at the haven hotel
Lucy and John’s wedding at The Haven Hotel in Dunmore East was one for the books. It’s a place I’d only ever been for a Sunday lunch before, but what a spot to photograph a wedding! The views from the hotel have to be among the best in the country, especially on a day like theirs when the sun was absolutely splitting the stones - and my neck. That said, I’ve been lucky enough to receive a few thoughtful gifts over the years, but the welcome bag waiting for me that morning was something else entirely. The inclusion of a fully charged neck fan was absolute genius. I was literally and figuratively blown away.
Lucy herself is one of Ireland’s best and most loved wedding photographers. Her work is stunning and well worth a look here. So when she got in touch to ask me to photograph her wedding, I was floored. It’s a huge privilege when anyone trusts you to capture their day, but when it’s someone whose work you admire, it hits differently. Along with the excitement came a fair sized ball of anxiety that thankfully melted away the minute things kicked off. The whole day had that easy going feel all helped by Lucy’s infectious attitude and buzzing energy.
The ceremony took place onsite at The Haven, surrounded by sunshine, sea air and that unbeatable coastal view.
As you might imagine, being one of the most loved photographers in the country, Lucy has no shortage of photographer friends. A few of them even had extra guest duties on the day. Elaine Barker was on Polaroids, Livia Figueiredo was rolling 8mm film, and together we had the day covered from every angle and every medium. It was brilliant chaos in the best possible way. It was brilliant too to work alongside Kevin from Follow Your Arrow Films, I cannot wait to see his video. It’s always great teaming up with someone who shares the same approach and energy.
Lucy and John wanted their day to be all about fun, and jeez, did it deliver. Guest were given a briefing during the ceremony on how, if they put in the work, can win free drinks or better still, win the wedding! Sheets of paper filled with tasks were handed out aftwerwars. The deal was simple: complete them all, and you’d win the wedding. Have you ever won a wedding? I bet not. But someone at Lucy and John’s did. The list included everything from “a Catholic kissing a Protestant” to “put a table on your head”, “roll down the grassy embankment”, “see how many people can fit under a picnic table”, and “attach pegs to someone’s clothes without them noticing”. It went on in that same brilliantly unhinged fashion. Needless to say, it was a goldmine for photos and one of the most entertaining things I’ve ever witnessed at a wedding. More of this!
There were so many thoughtful touches too. Each guest had a handwritten card waiting for them at dinner, something that sums Lucy and John up perfectly. The speeches were next level as well, featuring a live podcast moment from John in his now infamous podcast voice (you can check out his actual podcast here of you want to hear hear his dulcet tones). They skipped the first dance, who needs that pressure anyway, but there was no shortage of dancing, inflatable props, and an absolutely class Photo Booth that I somehow got dragged into more than once.
Before I finish, one last mention. John built a LEGO model of The Haven Hotel. It’s insane. If The Haven haven’t already made him an offer for it, I’d be amazed. You’ll see it below.
Speaking on which, I’ve waffled on far too much and could waffle on a fair bit more about this day. If you want it fast and furious, click play on the video. If you want to take your time, start scolling. Enjoy!
