There’s something special about photographing a wedding that comes full circle — and Lauren and David’s day at Castle Durrow was exactly that. This is also where David proposed to Lauren a couple of years earlier, so bringing them back to the same spot as husband and wife, under a full canopy of cherry blossoms, was one of those moments that reminds me why I love this job.
I was joined by my second shooter Dena, who covered groom prep right through to the dinner bell, so we had both sides of the morning covered in full.
Getting Ready in Abbeyleix and Carlow
David got ready in Abbeyleix while Lauren and the girls got ready at her family home in Carlow. I started my morning with Lauren, and it has to be said — her two golden Labradors stole the show for most of it. Two beautiful, bouncy goldens getting just as much attention as the dress.
One of the quieter, more emotional moments of the morning was Lauren’s first look with her dad. It’s a moment I always try to give space to, and this one didn’t disappoint.
The Ceremony at Abbeyleix Church
From Carlow, we headed to Abbeyleix Church for the ceremony. It’s a big, beautiful church, and with a full room of family and friends, it made for a really special backdrop for Lauren and David to say their vows.
Cherry Blossoms at Castle Durrow
Then it was on to Castle Durrow, a gorgeous premium wedding venue in County Laois. I’ve shot here before and I always love coming back — but this time, being the end of April, we got the cherry blossoms in full bloom. We made the absolute most of it for the couple’s portraits.
Knowing this was also where David had proposed made those photographs mean that bit more. It’s not something every couple gets, and it was a privilege to capture.
Music on the Lawn and Speeches Outdoors
The reception kicked off with music out on the lawn, guests mingling in the early summer sunshine, and some of the speeches held outside before the dinner bell called everyone in. The remaining speeches followed later that evening, once everyone had eaten.
Dancing the Night Away with Spring Break
Once the speeches wrapped up, the dance floor belonged to Spring Break — a brilliant wedding band I cross paths with regularly on the circuit, and they didn’t disappoint. High energy right through to the end of the night.
Thank You, Lauren & David
It was a brilliant day from start to finish, and I want to say a huge thank you to Lauren and David for choosing me as their photographer. Days like this — full circle moments, golden Labradors, cherry blossoms, and a great band — are exactly why I love documenting Irish weddings.
Where is Castle Durrow located?
Castle Durrow is a premium wedding venue located in Durrow, County Laois, Ireland.
What time of year is best for cherry blossoms at Castle Durrow?
Late April is typically the sweet spot for cherry blossom season at Castle Durrow, as seen in Lauren and David’s wedding photos.
Do you often photograph weddings outside of Dublin?
Yes. While I’m based near Dublin and shoot regularly across Wicklow, Dublin, and Meath, I travel throughout Ireland (and Europe) for weddings, including venues like Castle Durrow in County Laois.
Did you work alone on this wedding?
No, I was joined by my very trusted second shooter Dena, who covered groom preparations at Abbeyleix right through to the dinner bell, ensuring both sides of the morning were captured in full.
How would you describe your photography style?
I shoot in a natural, documentary style — capturing genuine moments as they happen rather than heavily posed shots, so couples get a true reflection of their day.
Ready to Talk About Your Own Wedding Day?
If you’re planning a wedding at Castle Durrow, or anywhere else in Ireland, I’d love to hear from you. Get in touch to check availability and chat through your day.
