Nadia & Leonard's Wedding | Galway, Ireland

Nadia and Leonard’s wedding in Galway was nothing short of incredible. A gothic-style celebration set against the dramatic backdrop of a castle, it was a day that perfectly complemented our pastel and vintage approach to wedding photography. The couple were drawn to our style and invited us to capture their special day at Dunguaire Castle in August 2025. Being part of a wedding in such a unique and historic location was a real privilege and set the tone for an unforgettable day from start to finish.

A Historic Setting on Galway Bay

Dunguaire Castle is a 16th-century tower house located on the southeastern shore of Galway Bay near Kinvara. With its rugged stone walls, coastal views, and rich history, it provided a striking and atmospheric backdrop for the day. The castle itself played a central role in the visual storytelling, especially during the morning preparations for both the bride and groom.

Bridal Morning Preparations

The morning began with the bridal party gathering in one of the castle’s dining rooms, sharing breakfast together over chocolate croissants and orange juice. Moments like these are always a favourite for us to capture. They allow everyone to ease into the day, release some of the anticipation, and give us the opportunity to naturally break the ice while documenting the getting-ready process in a relaxed and candid way.

Nadia and her bridesmaids opted for a soft pink and white colour palette that felt romantic, elegant, and perfectly suited to the castle setting. The gentle tones contrasted beautifully with the stone interiors, creating a timeless and almost fairytale-like aesthetic throughout the images.

Groom & Groomsmen Preparations

While the girls enjoyed a calm and elegant morning inside the castle, the lads were getting ready nearby in a cottage on the property. Full of banter and laughter, this part of the morning was relaxed and light-hearted. Weddings in Ireland at this time of year, particularly near the water, offer great opportunities for natural outdoor portraits.

The groomsmen were ready in no time, leaving space for some fun, memorable images that add personality and balance to the final gallery.

A Summer Ceremony at the Castle

The ceremony took place just a few steps away from where both parties had been getting ready, making the flow of the day feel effortless and calm. August in Ireland can be surprisingly warm, and with temperatures reaching over 30 degrees, guests and the couple were welcomed with shade under umbrellas as vows were exchanged.

The ceremony itself was intimate, relaxed, and full of emotion, fitting perfectly within the historic surroundings of the castle.

A Private Couple’s Shoot at Dunguaire Castle

Following the ceremony, Nadia and Leonard took time for a private shoot around the castle grounds. Planning a dedicated couple’s shoot immediately after the ceremony is something we always highly recommend. It allows you to step away from the crowd, take a breath, and truly take in the moment together as newlyweds.

These sessions often become the cornerstone of the final gallery, producing images that work beautifully as wall prints, photo albums, and profile pictures. Just as importantly, it creates a calm and meaningful pause in the day that many couples later describe as one of their favourite moments.

Celebrations at The Pier Head, Kinvara

While the couple enjoyed their intimate shoot, family and friends made their way to the reception venue at The Pier Head in Kinvara, a beautiful restaurant and events space overlooking Galway Bay. The transition from ceremony to celebration was seamless, with food, drinks, and dancing well underway by the time the newlyweds arrived.

The dance floor moments were some of the most enjoyable to capture, filled with energy, laughter, and genuine joy.

A Day to Remember

All in all, Nadia and Leonard’s wedding was a fantastic celebration and a privilege to be part of. From the historic setting to the relaxed atmosphere and thoughtful planning, it was a day filled with moments that will be treasured for years to come.

If you’re currently planning your wedding and looking for a photographer, we’d love to hear from you. Feel free to get in touch here, and if you’d like to explore more of our wedding photography, you can view our portfolio here.