It is not unusual for our couples to still be working a few days before their wedding. It is slightly more unusual when the work in question is happening three and a half thousand miles away in Qatar. That alone tells you everything you need to know about how wonderfully laid back Rebecca and Cathal are. When we video called them before the big day, Cathal said something that stayed with us. He explained that they did not want their wedding to consume them. Honestly, that is one of the best wedding philosophies we have ever heard. They chose suppliers they trusted, handed everything over, and focused entirely on enjoying whatever the day brought.
What unfolded was pure joy. After a beautiful ceremony in St Joseph’s chapel in Glenavy, we made our way to Antrim Castle Gardens for photos. Every time we shoot there we are reminded of just how stunning it is. There are endless locations that look incredible in every direction. As proof of how pretty this place is, we took family photos, bridal party photos and even a few couple portraits in the car park. Yes, the car park. It is nicer than the grounds at many wedding venues. That is how unfairly photogenic Antrim Castle Gardens is.
Then it was off to the reception at The Rabbit Hotel in Templepatrick. The Rabbit is such an easy venue to love. The spaces flow beautifully, the staff run everything with the calm of seasoned professionals and the atmosphere always feels warm and welcoming. It is one of those hotels that instantly puts guests at ease and photographs brilliantly whether you are inside or out in the courtyard.
We also have to give out a few special mentions. First, to Croía, Rebecca and Cathals gorgeous daughter. What a little delight she was. To best man Ryan, who delivered what might genuinely be the best speech we have heard in fifteen years of photographing weddings. We have paid for stand up shows that were not half as funny. He needs his own talk show. And finally, to the brilliant Sean Magee who provided the evening entertainment. The man is absurdly talented and managed to fill the dance floor all night. Proof that you absolutely do not need a full band to have a full dance floor.
