You can never predict the weather In Ireland, even in July but Friday started off good and only got better as the day went on. I started my day at Shane's parents home, not far from my own home in Castlebar. Shane's jeep was well polished and I loved the wedding plates "the lads". The lads were very relaxed and about to head for breakfast so I grabbed a few quick shots, took the drone for a spin then headed off to Fiona and the girls.
Arriving at Fiona's I could see the action through the window. Fiona is a wedding make-up artist herself but today it was her turn to sit in the high chair with Hayley Coleman in control of the brushes. Here I met Michael McLaughlin, the photographer for the day based in Westport. Michael is a true professional and a gent who was sporting a new beard Fr Charlie would later take a jibe at during the ceremony!
Fr. Charlie is one of the many great priests in Mayo and really makes a ceremony enjoyable. He's also great to work with as he is sure to get a smile and a laugh from even the most nervous bride and groom.
After the ceremony we had a quick photography and video shoot beside the church, I've shot in aughagower a number of times but never in the village itself which was perfect. Team bride and team groom even had time for a quick pint before heading back the the hotel.
The Castlecourt is a fantastic wedding venue any day of the year but when the sun comes out it really is stunning. We arrived to see the guests enjoying a siesta in the sun. After an hour or so of mingling it was time for dinner and a couple of short and sweet speeches.
Usually at this point I'd pop out to the restaurant for a bite to eat - the burger usually - however today I was on a mission to edit a 5 minute video in the time it took the guests to have a dinner - no easy task. I set up camp in the ashleigh suite, powered up my portable workstation and began editing. Honestly it was easy as I had so many great moments to choose from. I was finished while the mains were still on the table and once dessert was served it was time to play the film.
I must say one of the most enjoyable parts of the job is watching a room full of people reacting to a film you've just made. It makes missing the burger totally worth it.
Even when you think the night can't get any better the bride and groom had another surprise for the guests, an outdoor first dance. Big thanks to Paul from the Castlecourt for making sure this went without a hitch. After that the Brian McDermott Band had the place rocking
Thanks again to Fiona & Shane and I cannot wait to get started on the main event!
The Team
Videographer: Jason Nolan Wedding Films
Photographer: Michael McLaughlin
Celebrant: Fr. Charlie McDonnell
Church: Aughagower
Reception: Castlecourt Hotel Westport
Wedding Band: The Brian McDermott Band