Caroline & Luke | A Romantic Cork Wedding at Ovens Church, Kilcrea Friary and Fernhill House Hotel & Gardens
Some weddings feel special from the very beginning, and Caroline and Luke’s wedding was one of those days.
I was genuinely thrilled when Caroline and Luke chose me as their photographer, not only because of the beautiful plans they had in place, but because of how close to home this wedding was for me. They live just around the corner, were married in my local church, and Caroline’s mum and brother both teach at my children’s primary school. Photographing a wedding with those kinds of local connections always adds an extra layer of meaning.
As a Cork wedding photographer, it is a real privilege to photograph weddings within your own community, surrounded by familiar places, faces and a genuine sense of warmth.
Wedding Ceremony at Ovens Church
Caroline and Luke were married in Ovens Church, surrounded by family, friends and neighbours who know them best. The ceremony was heartfelt and relaxed, with a lovely sense of familiarity in the room.
There is something particularly special about photographing a wedding in a local church where so many people share a connection. The atmosphere was warm and supportive, with proud parents, quiet smiles and emotional moments that needed very little direction. These are the moments I love to document quietly and naturally as they unfold.
Wedding Photos at Kilcrea Friary
After the ceremony, we headed to Kilcrea Friary for Caroline and Luke’s photoshoot.
Kilcrea Friary is one of my favourite locations for wedding photography in Cork. The historic stonework, arches and surrounding greenery create a timeless backdrop that works beautifully in all seasons. Caroline and Luke were completely at ease here, enjoying a calm moment together after the ceremony.
Rather than rushing through poses, we took our time, allowing space for genuine moments, laughter and connection. This relaxed approach always results in photographs that feel natural and authentic, and Kilcrea Friary was the perfect setting for it.
Fernhill House Hotel & Gardens Wedding Reception
The celebrations continued at Fernhill House Hotel & Gardens, a stunning Cork wedding venue known for its welcoming atmosphere and beautifully maintained gardens.
Fernhill House is ideal for couples who want a venue that feels elegant but never formal. After arriving, we made the most of the gardens for additional photos, with soft evening light and plenty of space to wander without feeling rushed.
Later that evening, we headed back outside for sparkler photos in the gardens, which added a really fun and atmospheric moment to the day and gave everyone a chance to get involved.
Evening Celebrations and First Dance
The evening celebrations kicked off with the brilliant J90, who played Caroline and Luke’s first dance. The atmosphere in the room was fantastic, the dancefloor filled quickly, and it was the perfect way to finish a joyful and relaxed wedding day.
Wedding Suppliers
Caroline and Luke were supported by a wonderful team of wedding suppliers who helped the day run smoothly:
Make-up: Nikki Burke – The Make Up Doll
Wedding Coordinator at Fernhill House and Gardens: Ann Cullinane
Band: J90
Working with experienced suppliers always makes a huge difference to how smoothly a wedding day flows.
A Wedding Close to Home
Caroline and Luke’s wedding was a perfect example of how meaningful a day can be when it is rooted in family, community and familiar places. From their ceremony at Ovens Church, to the historic beauty of Kilcrea Friary, and the relaxed elegance of Fernhill House Hotel and Gardens, every part of the day reflected who they are as a couple.
Thank you, Caroline and Luke, for trusting me to capture such an important day, especially one so close to home. It truly meant a lot.
Getting Married in Cork?
If you are planning a wedding in Cork and are looking for a relaxed, natural photography approach with plenty of guidance to keep the day running smoothly, feel free to get in touch. I am always happy to chat through plans and timelines before the big day.
Kind Words from Caroline and Luke
Thank you so much for the amazing photos. It was such a lovely surprise to receive them, we are absolutely obsessed and can’t stop looking at them!
You did such an incredible job capturing the day. The shots, style, quality and editing are all just perfect and we couldn’t be happier.
Thank you again for everything. We truly appreciate it and will be recommending you to all our friends who are getting married.
Caroline and Luke