Nicola & Conor had their wedding at Trump International Hotel Doonbeg. This is one of Ireland’s most luxurious wedding venues sitting right on the edge of the Atlantic Ocean and part of Ireland’s Wild Atlantic Way.

It caters to couples from all over the world looking for a luxurious, high end and remote wedding destination. Of course it is also famous for it’s world class links golf course attracting visitors particularly from the USA who love their golf. With almost 200 rooms on site in the form of hotel rooms and luxury lodges, weddings guests can all stay over without having to seek alternative accommodation or travel. It’s a win win situation for everybody attending your wedding.

As a prestigious wedding venue on the west coast of Ireland, it is surrounded by stunning scenery which provides a beautiful backdrop for wedding photographs.

Nicola’s bridal preparations were located in the little picturesque town of Kilkee Co Clare overlooking the stunning Kilkee Bay. No big bridal party for this wedding so preparations were all very calm and on time. I’ll take that any time especially as it was about a 25 minute drive to the church – Star of the Sea church in Kilty.

I got there just as guests were arriving and where a very chilled Conor was waiting. For any church wedding the type of priest is a huge factor and Nicola & Conor’s chosen priest was a gem. Friendly, brilliant personality, chilled and funny. He had the guests (and suppliers) engaged and entertained for the whole ceremony. Wedding ceremonies such as this are a joy to work at.

This was an Autumn wedding but the weather was terrific. Windy but warm. Even windier where we went for our first set of bride and groom photos after the ceremony. Because Kilkee harbours a very strong bond with Nicola, she wanted to pop back there for some photos along the cliff walk. It was touch and go as to whether it would be possible but because she was on time getting to the church, it became doable so we all jumped into our cars and sped off to the cliffs. Winds were probably near gale force when we got there so hair, dress, veil got a beating and were absolutely impossible to control. But that was part of the fun – clean shoes but messy hair…!!

After a short time at the cliffs, we sped to Doolin and to The Trump International. Before going to the actual hotel, we stopped off at the beach for some more couple photos. Still windy but we found some shelter in the dunes. When we were done, it was hotel arrival time where by this stage all the guests we enjoying themselves and waiting for the bride and groom.

Family formal photos were quickly done just before the meal with the help of some of the wonderful staff. During the meal however, we were able to nip out with Nicola and Conor for a few quick photos just as the sun was setting. I always love to do this especially if we have a westerly facing location and of course a sunset or something close to one – it is Ireland after all. Unfortunately, often it’s not always possible due to many reasons but when it is doable, it’s a lovely way to add some couple photos to your memories.

Wedding at Trump International Hotel Doonbeg

Thanks so much to Nicola and Conor for choosing me to be their wedding photographer. Absolutely pleasure working with such a nice couple. Also thanks to Evan from Irish Eye Wedding Videos to keeping me company through the day. I work with Evan often and his work is amazing.

Finally thanks to the staff at Trump Doonbeg for their help and hospitality.