Karen & Dave – 9th September 2017

At the turn of the seasons, I had the great pleasure of photographing the wedding of Karen and Dave in the ever-beautiful Salthill.

When I arrived at Karen’s house it was immediately obvious that Karen was blessed with fabulous people around her; I was greeted by Karen’s mum and bridesmaids, all of whom welcomed me in like I was one of the party and couldn’t do enough to help. The house was stunning and I loved Karen’s style.

I met Dave, his mum and the groomsmen at Salthill Church for a few photos before Karen arrived. Its always a “box of chocolates” moment when meeting the boys for the first time since sometimes lads can be less enthusiastic than the girls when they see a camera coming and you never know what you’re going to get! But Dave’s groomsmen couldnt have been nicer and were up for any craic!

The whole day was laid back and calm which was a reflection of Karen and Dave themselves. After a beautiful ceremony we took advantage of the lovely weather and did family family photos outside before heading to the NUIG quad to take some photos with the bridal party. NUIG is so beautiful at this time of year and the shoot was so much fun. After a brief stop on the Salthill prom for a few more photos, we continued on to the fabulous Salthill Hotel.

After dinner and speeches the dance floor was filled by the Weightless Astronnauts where Karen and Dave danced the night away with their friends and families.

On a personal note, I’d just like to thank you both, Karen and Dave, for chosing me as your photographer. It was such a joy to witness you becoming husband and wife and a real pleasure getting to know your familes and bridal party. I wish you all the very best for your future together and I can’t wait to organise your wedding album x

Karen & Dave:

How did you first meet and get together?

We met through friends and were friends for a few years before we got together about 9 and a half years ago.

Tell me about the proposal?

The proposal took place in a rowing boat on the lake in Central Park in New York.  He had to wait until a few other couples got engaged around us before he did it himself!

What was important to you about your wedding- what were your priorities from the very beginning?

We really wanted to keep it local to make it relaxed for everyone including friends and family so most people wouldn’t have to travel too far.

What are your most powerful memories of the ceremony?

Dave lit a candle for his father who had recently passed away as a symbol that he was still with us.  Also Nicola McGuire made all the songs so emotional and memorable.

What made you choose your reception venue?

As we mentioned we wanted to keep it local and we visited a few venues around Galway.  The Salthill Hotel stood out as it is right on the prom and we had always heard such high praise from anyone who went to a wedding there.

What made the day really special and personal to you?

What made it so special was how excited everyone was in the lead up to the day.  Our bridal party and family were so looking forward to this day which really added to our excitement.  We tried to make it a bit more personal by making a gin station & sweet table ourselves for the reception and by creating a photo slideshow that included photos from over the years of most of the people who were attending the wedding.

What was your favourite part of the wedding day?

We loved it all but the best part was the church ceremony and taking our vows.  We also enjoyed meeting everyone outside the church and throughout the day!!

Who did your hair and make-up?

Hair – Emer Coen

MakeUp – Fiona Coyne

Who supplied your flowers and cake?

Flowers – Bernadette Higgins – Wedding Flowers Galway

Cake – Niall Diviney – Simply Divine Cakes

Where did you go on honeymoon?

We went to the Maldives & Dubai and it was amazing!!!

What advice would you give to brides and grooms planning their day?

Be relaxed in your planning and on the day make sure you take everything in and enjoy it.  Everyone will have a great time if they see how happy and relaxed you are!!