Aileen & Christopher’s Darver Castle wedding in Ireland was an absolute blast! As a Belfast-based wedding photographer, I loved travelling south through the country and capturing every moment at this stunning wedding venue in the Republic of Ireland. I’ll never forget the drive up to Darver Castle.

As you come through the gates of this 15th‑century estate in the heart of County Louth, it feels like stepping into another world: ancient oak trees, stone walls and sweeping lawns. There’s a sense of history everywhere too as Darver Castle has been here since 1432 and is now restored for wedding events like these, surrounded by 50 acres of parkland and wooded grounds.

a black and white photograph of a newly married couple standing looking out towards the sunset on the evening on their wedding day at the grounds of Darver Castle where they had their wedding reception

I first met Aileen and Christopher on an engagement shoot last year. They’re the kind of couple who laugh easily and make everyone around them feel at home. When they told me they were planning a big celebration at Darver Castle with almost 180 guests, I knew it was going to be an energetic day. On the morning of the wedding, the castle’s bridal suite buzzed with excitement. Niamh Coney worked her magic on Aileen’s hair while Makeup by Erin kept her look fresh and natural. There was a quiet moment when Aileen stood at the window, looking out over the grounds, and I could see just how much this day meant to her.

The ceremony took place in the castle’s light‑filled ceremony room, followed by a drinks reception in the walled courtyard. Flowers by Geraldine created romantic arrangements of blush and greenery, which suited the historic surroundings perfectly. Guests sipped champagne and wandered through the gardens while I slipped away with Aileen and Christopher for portraits under the trees. At every turn the castle delivered the backdrop we wanted: stone arches, ivy‑clad walls and little pockets of sunlight (my favourite!).

We were also joined by Chris and his team from Eleglance Images for videography, who specialise in vibrant, natural photos and films, so it was a pleasure to collaborate with another likeminded storyteller. There was one funny moment when his drone gently drifted into a tree; it broke the tension and had everyone laughing.

The party really took off once we headed inside for dinner. Mid Ulster Limousines had delivered Aileen in style earlier that morning, and now it was time for music. The Nooks, a country‑folk band formed in 2008 and known across Ireland for their quirky adaptations of pop and rock classics, kept the dance floor full during the early evening. They’ve played everywhere from small village pubs to packed houses all over Ireland, and their energy was infectious. Later, DJ Magiggs took over. Magiggs is an award‑winning wedding DJ, renowned for his high‑energy shows and ability to tailor every set to the crowd. He didn’t disappoint.

The other suppliers were incredible, too. Lyttle Teapot Cakery baked a buttercream cake that looked too pretty to cut and tasted so good (thanks Aileen and Christopher!). By the time the 180 guests had finished the cake and were dancing to DJ Magiggs, the room felt like a wave of laughter and joy (and sugar).

Looking back at their wedding, what stands out to me isn’t just the spectacular setting but the feeling of community. From the ancient castle grounds to the last song, everything was infused with warmth and energy. Thank you, Aileen and Christopher, for trusting me to capture it all. Your Darver Castle celebration is one I’ll remember for a long time.

Talented Wedding Suppliers

Huge thanks to all the incredible wedding suppliers across Ireland and Northern Ireland who helped make this day so perfect:

📸 Videographer & Photographer

Eleglance Images – Based in Bangor, Northern Ireland, Eleglance Images offers both wedding photography and videography services.
- Website: eleglanceimages.co.uk

💐 Florist

Flowers by Geraldine – Specializing in bespoke floral arrangements for weddings across Northern Ireland and the Republic of Ireland.
- Instagram: @flowersbygeraldine

🎂 Cake Designer

Lyttle Teapot Cakery – An award-winning wedding cake MASTER based in Dungannon, NI but offering delivery throughout Ireland.
- Facebook: Lyttle Teapot Cakery

🚗 Wedding Cars

Mid Ulster Limousines – Providing elegant and comfortable transportation for weddings across Northern Ireland.
- Website: midulsterlimos.com

💇‍♀️ Hair Stylist

Niamh Coney – A talented hair stylist known for creating beautiful bridal hairstyles.
- Instagram: @niamh_coney

💄 Makeup Artist

Makeup by Erin – Specialising in bridal and occasion makeup, offering services across northern and southern Ireland.
- Instagram: @makeupby__erin

🎶 Wedding Band

The Nooks – A stylistically unique Country Folk Band from Ireland, known for their energetic performances.
- Website: thenooks.band

🎧 DJ & Entertainment

DJ Magiggs – Recognized as one of Ireland's leading wedding DJs, known for creating unforgettable entertainment experiences.
- Website: djmagiggs.com

🏰 Wedding Venue

Darver Castle – An exclusive, award-winning castle wedding venue located in County Louth, Ireland.
- Website: darvercastle.ie

Planning Your Ireland Wedding? Let’s Chat!

So grateful to have captured Aileen & Christopher’s big day. If you’re planning your wedding in Belfast, Northern Ireland, or anywhere on the island, get in touch as I’d love to help make your day as amazing as theirs was.