Orla & Dan
Oh my god!!!!!🥹 we just watched the slideshow for the first time and you are just an absolute wizard, the photos are incredible!!! We love them SO much, you perfectly captured the energy of the day and caught so many stunning wee moments. We couldn’t be happier with what you captured and just want to say thank you from the bottom of our hearts!!
Incredible stuff!!!
Martinstown House Wedding Photographer
As an occasional Kildare wedding photographer, I’ve captured countless beautiful moments, but Orla and Dan’s summer solstice wedding at Martinstown House was truly special. The couple chose me for my candid, emotional style, emphasizing their desire to enjoy their day without feeling like they’d miss the party due to a prolonged photoshoot. This approach allowed me to authenticate their love story, catching genuine moments without being intrusive. It was easy to just join in and get swept along.
Morning Excitement: Getting Ready at Martinstown House
I arrived at Martinstown House three hours before the ceremony, greeted by an exciting atmosphere. Dan and his groomsmen were savouring every moment as they prepared, while Orla and her bridesmaids were in high spirits downstairs, enjoying champagne and dancing to a cracking Spotify playlist.
Ashley from Your Wedding Hairdresser worked her magic on the bridal party’s hair, while Jemma Doyle Makeup ensured everyone looked picture-perfect. As Orla slipped into her stunning dress with her mother’s help, I discreetly captured the touching moment when her father saw her for the first time – a beautiful, candid shot that epitomized the emotion of the day. I made sure to leave them have some personal time together before we headed down stairs.
Rain-Kissed Vows in the Martinstown House Woodlands
The ceremony was set to take place in Martinstown House’s charming barn. As the rain began to fall, guests huddled under umbrellas, creating a cosy atmosphere that only added to the day’s magic. Seonaid Renton from Mad About Flowers had transformed the space into a floral wonderland, perfectly complementing the barn’s Woodland rustic charm.
The ceremony was deeply personal, with Orla and Dan’s adorable dog, Mitzy, roaming freely. A surprise performance by Orla’s brother and friends singing “Harvest Moon” had everyone emotional, especially when Orla joined in. Dan’s unexpected harmonica solo was a hit with the guests, showcasing the couple’s fun-loving nature.
Stolen Moments: Quick Wedding Portraits and Lively Celebrations
Despite the rain, we captured some fantastic family photos before heading to the drinks reception. The weather actually enhanced the festive mood, with everyone gathering under the large canopy, creating a scene reminiscent of a St Patrick’s Day knees-up. Fueled by the terrific sounds of Raglan. I’ve never seen a drinks reception like it.
The mix of guests from Derbyshire and Monaghan added a unique flavour to the celebrations. Dan really wanted a big group photo, and even though it was pouring, everyone happily obliged. We got an amazing shot in front of the house that I’m sure they’ll cherish forever.
As the sun finally emerged, we seized the opportunity for a quick portrait session in Martinstown House’s stunning gardens. These stolen moments allowed the couple to relax and enjoy some time together, resulting in beautifully natural photographs. A few drinks helped for sure!
From Heartfelt Words to Dance Floor Magic
The reception was a foodie’s dream, featuring delectable dishes that had everyone raving. Orla was food-obsessed and wanted a menu to wow the guests with dishes like comfy duck leg, crab, rack of lamb, sea bass, and a stunning chocolate brownie to top it off. The speeches were heartfelt, especially Dan’s touching tribute to his late father. Throughout the evening, Eoin and Sue from Run Wild Weddings discreetly captured the celebration on video, ensuring every special moment was preserved. As night fell, the band Spring Break had everyone on their feet. “Gimme, Gimme, Gimme” by ABBA proved to be the night’s hit, with the dance floor packed and spirits high, promising a night of continued celebration long after I packed up my gear at 10:30 PM. This Martinstown House wedding was a testament to the power of love, laughter, and resilience in the face of unpredictable Irish weather. As a Kildare wedding photographer, days like these remind me why I’m so passionate about capturing moments of pure joy and creating lasting memories for couples to treasure forever.
Contact Me About Your Wedding Photography HERE
Omg!! We have gone through the editorial and to say we are blown away is an understatement, we could not be any more in love with all of the images you captured!!!! 🫶🫶🫶🫶You are incredible at what you do, a true pro!
Orla
List of Vendors
Photographer // Aspect Photography
Venue // Martinstown House
Florals // Seonaid Renton Mad About Flowers
Reception Music // Raglan
Videographer // Eoin & Sue from Run Wild Weddings
Hair // Ashley from Your Wedding Hairdresser
Make-Up // Jemma Doyle
LINKS
Martinstown House Wedding Photographer
FAQS
The interior of Martinstown House is absolutely gorgeous. No matter what the weather, I’d normally pick up one or two portraits inside the house anyway.
In the event of rainy weather, I usually use all my weather apps to keep an eye out for any potential clearing later in the day and see if it’s possible to push the photographs out.
Martinstown has plenty of options for indoor portraits if the weather isn’t good.
Capturing candid moments for camera-shy couples is what I do. I’ve often said I’ve made a career out of getting people back to their drinks reception without spending too long taking formal portraits.
I find that most couples don’t like the idea of having their photos taken on the day. Maybe they feel they’ll be misrepresented or may do something that’s a bit cringy, not them. But I always find that, on the day, their apprehension is eased by a combination of the magic of elation of the actual wedding itself and one or two drinks! It’s rarely a problem.
But still, I always keep my finger on the pulse and make sure I’m not pushing things too hard.
The best time for portraits at Martinstown House depends on several factors, including the time of year and the time of day. During the summer months, when the sunlight is strong and directly overhead, it’s ideal to find some shade for photography. However, the summer also offers extended golden hours. These provide a great opportunity for portraits, perhaps after dinner and speeches, but before the dancing begins.
For the rest of the year, the lighting is generally pleasant throughout the day, so any time is suitable for photos. It’s only in the summer that we need to be particularly mindful of the lighting conditions.
I enjoy collaborating with videographers and frequently examine the differences in our styles and approaches. This helps us discover innovative ways to serve our clients. Generally, I prefer to maintain good relationships with everyone and allow them to work independently. However, when working with videographers, I make an effort to stay engaged, constantly communicating and sharing ideas. Ultimately, this collaboration benefits the client.
I’m very familiar with the best photo spots at Martinstown House. I always start early for each wedding to walk through the grounds and check for any changes. The secret garden is quite stunning, and the expansive lawn offers many interesting shot opportunities. I typically chase the light, looking for strong backlighting and elements that can create a beautiful background. Martinstown House is full of special locations. It’s a major attraction for couples, I’m sure!
I aim to deliver the slideshow and preview gallery to clients within three to four days after the wedding. However, this timeline can vary depending on the season. During the peak summer months, when weddings are most frequent, it might take slightly longer. In contrast, the turnaround is quicker in the autumn and spring.
I’ve become quite obsessed with the weather due to my job! I always monitor the forecast several days before a wedding. If the weather looks like it might turn bad, I proactively contact the couple to discuss a backup plan.
However, inclement weather has a unique beauty. As a documentary photographer, I view any weather conditions as an integral part of the wedding day’s story, so I don’t feel like I have to hide them. Despite this, I always hope for good conditions. I rely on various weather apps to prepare for any last-minute adjustments to the photography schedule on the wedding day.
Group photos have the potential to disrupt the flow of a wedding day, so a decent plan in advance helps to alleviate any problems that might arise on the day.
For family photographs, we usually pick a time and location before the wedding and inform everybody about where they need to be. When those shots happen, they’re usually prompt, not rushed, and they’ll be perfect portraits. But I believe in getting people back to their drinks reception, so try not to take too long with them.
The larger group photograph is quite easy to set up, but I usually require the venue’s assistance to do this. About ten minutes before the dinner call, we’ll announce that the group photograph is about to happen, and you’ll be surprised how easily it falls into place. Once the photo’s done, the venue calls for dinner, and everyone makes their way to the marquee.