A Stunning Wedding at Markree Castle: Erika and Nathan’s Story
Erika and Nathan’s wedding at Markree Castle in Sligo was a magical day blending Canadian charm with Irish elegance. With breathtaking backdrops, a surprise owl, and laughter all around, their day was one for the books. I photographed this wedding during October 2024 alongside the talented (and remarkably handsome…!) Donal from ocweddingvideography
Erika and Nathan’s Beautiful Wedding at Markree Castle
Some weddings just stick with you, and Erika and Nathan’s celebration at Markree Castle in County Sligo, Ireland, is a perfect example. With 50 of their closest family and friends flying in from Canada, their day felt like a warm blend of heartfelt moments, a few unexpected surprises, and the timeless charm of Ireland.
A Canadian Couple with Personality
Erika and Nathan are the kind of couple who make you feel like you’ve known them forever. I first met them in 2023 during their engagement shoot in Dublin. Right away, I could see how down-to-earth and fun they were—always laughing, joking, and just being themselves.
Fast forward one year to their wedding day, and that same playful energy was everywhere. They brought a mix of excitement and humor to their celebration that made every moment feel special. But the real show-stealer? Erika had planned a surprise appearance from an owl during the ceremony and photo session. Yes, an owl! The bird swooped in, adding a whimsical touch to the day and getting a reaction from Nathan (and the guests) that was absolutely priceless.
A Picture-Perfect Setting
Markree Castle is a dream location for any wedding, and Erika and Nathan made the most of its stunning grounds and interiors. October’s golden light created the perfect atmosphere, with the autumn colors adding an extra layer of magic to their photos.
The castle’s gardens offered so many beautiful backdrops—winding pathways, vibrant foliage, and, of course, the timeless architecture of the castle itself. Inside, the iconic staircase was a standout spot. With natural light streaming through the tall windows, it was the ideal setting to showcase Erika’s elegant gown and Nathan’s sharp suit.
Thanks to an absolutely amazing job by @theflowershedsligo the outdoor ceremony area and the dining room looked spectacular with amazing arrays of fresh flowers.
A Ceremony to Remember
The outdoor ceremony was nothing short of breathtaking. It was performed in both English & French by the lovely Perrine Hudson from Spiritual Ceremonies. Surrounded by the lush grounds of Markree Castle, Erika and Nathan exchanged vows that were heartfelt, personal, and filled with emotion.
And let’s not forget the owl’s grand entrance—it was a fun twist that added some lightheartedness to an otherwise deeply touching moment. The mix of laughter and tears throughout the ceremony perfectly captured who Erika and Nathan are as a couple: genuine, warm, and full of surprises.
From a Photographer’s Lens
Having worked with Erika and Nathan before, photographing their wedding felt like a natural extension of their story. They were so comfortable in front of the camera, which made capturing candid moments a breeze.
The light that day couldn’t have been better—soft and warm, highlighting the natural beauty of the castle’s grounds and interiors. The contrast between the romantic garden shots and the dramatic elegance of the castle interiors really brought their wedding story to life.
The Charm of Markree Castle
Markree Castle isn’t just a venue; it’s an experience. Every corner of the property is steeped in history, and the restoration work has brought it back to its full glory. For Erika and Nathan’s guests, many of whom traveled all the way from Canada, it was a chance to experience Ireland’s rich heritage in a truly unique way.
A special shoutout goes to the Markree team, who went above and beyond to make sure every detail of the day was perfect. From the smooth coordination to the warm hospitality, they ensured Erika and Nathan could focus on what mattered most—celebrating with their loved ones.
A Night to Remember
As the sun set, the festivities moved indoors to the castle’s grand ballroom. Guests enjoyed a delicious dinner and speeches that ranged from laugh-out-loud funny to deeply emotional. One standout moment was when Erika and Nathan snuck away for a quiet dance in the courtyard under the stars. It was a beautiful, intimate way to close out such an incredible day.
Planning Your Wedding at Markree Castle
If you’re considering a wedding at Markree Castle, or one of its sister venues like Ballyseede Castle, Cabra Castle or Bellingham Castle, you’re in for something truly special. These venues combine elegance, history, and top-notch service to create unforgettable celebrations.
As a photographer, capturing weddings at Markree Castle is always a highlight. The mix of natural beauty and historic charm offers endless inspiration, and I’d love to help tell your story in this stunning setting.
Planning your wedding in Ireland? Let’s chat! With years of experience capturing destination weddings, I’m here to make sure your big day is as unique as your love story.
