Valerie and Derek – 23rd June 2018

The Glenlo Abbey Hotel holds a dear place in my heart, it being the hotel where I chose to celebrate my own wedding fifteen years ago (can’t believe it’s that long!) Back in 2003, civil ceremonies were not yet legal so we had a church ceremony but, given the choice, we would have definately had our ceremony in the unconsecrated abbey on the grounds of the Glenlo. I still think it’s the perfect location for an intimate wedding.

So, on 23rd June, when I arrived at the Glenlo Abbey Hotel to shoot the civil ceremony of Valerie and Derek, I was excited and a little nostalgic.

Luckily, when I went up to the bridal suite I was greeted by such an amazing atmosphere that my giddiness just blended in! It was instantly obvious that Valerie and her bridesmaids were brilliant fun and eager to be of any help to me they could. I adored Valerie’s style; her shoes were divine, made more so by the tiny matching flowergirl shoes and bag. Derek had been busy making everyone cry with his gifts; a beautiful original poem for Valerie and framed art work.

Valerie looked so beautiful in her dress and as she entered the Abbey there wasn’t a dry eye in the place. The ceremony included both a hand-fasting and a tree planting ceremony and at the kiss there was the biggest round of applause I’ve ever heard.

It was such a joy to be present at Valerie and Derek’s wedding. They truely are a couple who belong together, they spent the whole day making each other laugh and finishing each other’s sentences, it was wonderful to see a couple so obviously madly in love and not afraid to show it.

Thank you both for your hospitality on the day and for choosing me as your photographer, I loved every minute of your wonderful day xx