As a professional photographer, Kristen has had the opportunity to shoot weddings all over the world. But, when it came time to design her own day, she initially envisioned hometown nuptials. “Andrew loved the simplicity and relaxed vibe of the destination weddings he had accompanied me on and was the one who actually suggested [the idea].” Once the two decided to wed away from home, there was no question about the destination. “We went on our first big trip together to Ireland,” says the bride. “We fell madly in love with its people, landscapes, castles and warm and fuzzy feel. It was the only option for us!”

The couple’s guests were in love with the idea. “I thought they would think we were crazy, but surprisingly they were all for it from the very start!” says the bride. “They all continue to tell us how it was a life changing experience for them.”

Come W-day, not even potential rain and an initial backup plan could dampen the high school sweethearts’ spirits. “We were just about to get started and move forward with the indoor ceremony, when someone noticed that the rain had stopped…and I said, ‘Let’s do it!’ We went ahead with a standing ceremony [in a pretty little corner of the castle courtyard]. Although it was not the original plan, I loved the intimacy of our loved ones standing around us!” reminisces Kristen.

Cloghan Castle’s Banquet Hall is what drew the couple to the castle and they made the most of the unique setting. “I loved the medieval feel of the stone interiors,” says Kristen. “I wanted the room fully lit by ambient light sources for a romantic vibe, so we filled the place with string lights and tons of candles. We honestly did not expect a huge party atmosphere with only 30-ish people, but my hubby had the idea of hiring an Irish pub-style band and once they got started, things went wild!”

Kristen has some wise words of advice for other couples considering a destination wedding. “Do what you can leading up to the [wedding]…but the minute you board that plane, let it all go. That is the beauty of a destination wedding. You get to be on vacation. Don’t ruin a moment of your trip fretting over minute details that are out of your hands.”

Vendors: Photography: Iris and Light, Wedding Planning: Aislinn Events, Wedding Venue: Cloghan Castle, Videographer: Nate Puhr (photo + cinema), Florist: Fleur Weddings, Stationery: Social Savvy, Gown Designer: Custom made by Dikici Bridal, Bride’s Shoes: Bella Belle, Bride’s Crown: Be Something New, Veil: Love Sparkle Pretty, Vintage Robe & Nightgown: Chariot Marie, Groom’s Clothing Designer: Men’s Wearhouse, Bridesmaids Clothing Designer: Lulus, Hair: Bliss Bridal Hair Styling, Makeup: C Beauty with Fiona, Flower Girl Dress: RenzRags, Vow Book: Wedding Story Writer, Vintage Rentals: Historic Interiors, Napkins & Chargers: FrogPrince Wedding and Events, Gold Cutlery: Gold Cutlery for Hire, Caterer: BBQ Joe’s, Cake: Carol’s Cakes Galway

This article first appeared in Destination I Do’s Fall/Winter 2017 issue. You can order a copy here.