Kathie and Chris // Derry // Drumhalla 2023

The rain couldn’t dampen the spirits of Kathie and Chris on their wedding day. As I arrived at Derry Town Hall, I could feel the excitement in the air. This was a wedding that had been eagerly anticipated, as it had been postponed several times due to the way of the world as well as the arrival of their little girl. But today, all that mattered was the love radiating between this beautiful couple.

I first met Kathie and Chris back in 2019 when we embarked on their engagement shoot. From that moment, I knew that their wedding would be a unique and memorable affair. As a photographer, my goal is always to capture the essence of a couple’s relationship and their true personalities. And with Kathie and Chris, it was a delightfully emotive and creative opportunity.

The ceremony at Derry Town Hall was intimate and heartfelt. Surrounded by their closest friends and family, Kathie and Chris exchanged vows that echoed with love and commitment. It was a privilege to witness and capture those precious moments on camera. Every smile, every tear, every loving glance – all of it became a testament to the pure joy that filled the room.

The weather may have been typically Irish, with rain showers coming and going, but it didn’t deter us from creating beautiful and playful photographs. We embraced the elements, using umbrellas as props and laughing through the raindrops. And it was in those candid moments that the true essence of Kathie and Chris shone through – their playfulness and love for life.

Drumhalla House Wedding Photography

After the ceremony, we made our way to County Donegal for the reception at Drumhalla House. The rain had subsided by then, allowing us to explore the gorgeous outdoor surroundings. With its rolling hills and breathtaking scenery, it was the perfect backdrop for some stunning documentary-style photography. I wanted to capture the raw emotions and candid interactions between the newlyweds and their loved ones.

Throughout the day, we faced a few challenges. The ever-changing weather tested our flexibility and forced me to think creatively on my feet. However, I believe that embracing the unexpected leads to the most memorable and unique photographs. It pushes boundaries and adds an element of surprise and spontaneity to the images. It was great to work alongside my friend Marty Crawford who suggested heading down to the beach after the wedding breakfast. Kathie and Chris were great sports and didn’t mind getting their feet a little wet as you’ll see!

As I reflect on this photography experience, I am reminded once again of why I am so passionate about documenting love stories. Through my lens, I have the privilege of capturing the tender connections and magical moments that make each couple unique. Kathie and Chris’s wedding was a true testament to the power of love and the joy that radiates from it.

I am grateful to have been a part of their journey, from the engagement shoot to the wedding day. And as I share their story through my photographs, I hope to evoke the same emotions and warmth that I felt on that rainy yet inspiring day.

Drumhalla House, Rathmullan, Co. Donegal

If you’re considering getting married at Drumhalla, here’s a little more info about this brilliant venue.

Drumhalla House is a stunning 18th-century country house located on the shores of Lough Swilly in Rathmullan, County Donegal, Ireland. The house and its surrounding 46 acres of woodland and landscaped gardens offer a luxurious and secluded setting for a variety of occasions, including weddings, corporate events, and family gatherings.

History and architecture

Drumhalla House was built in 1789 by Dr Knox of Lifford. The house is a classic example of Georgian architecture, with its elegant symmetry, tall windows, and whitewashed facade. The interior of the house has been beautifully restored, retaining many of its original features, such as high ceilings, ornate fireplaces, and sweeping staircases.

Accommodation

Drumhalla House offers superior self-catering accommodation for up to 28 guests. The house features 13 beautifully appointed bedrooms, each with its own private bathroom. There are also a number of other leisure rooms, including a drawing room, dining room, library, and games room.

Weddings and events

Drumhalla House is a popular wedding venue, offering couples the opportunity to celebrate their special day in a truly unique and romantic setting. The house and grounds can be hired for exclusive use, providing couples with complete privacy and flexibility. Drumhalla House is also licensed to host civil ceremonies and partnerships.

Things to do

In addition to enjoying the luxurious accommodation and stunning grounds of Drumhalla House, there is also a variety of things to do in the surrounding area. Rathmullan is a charming village with a number of shops, restaurants, and pubs. The village is also home to Rathmullan Beach, which is a popular spot for swimming, sunbathing, and water sports.

Other attractions in the area include:

• Glenveagh National Park: A beautiful national park with mountains, lakes, and forests.
• Fanad Head: A scenic peninsula with dramatic cliffs and beaches.
• Doe Castle: A 16th-century castle with stunning views of Lough Swilly.
• Fort Dunree: A military fort with a museum and guided tours.

Getting there

Drumhalla House is located approximately 45 minutes drive from Derry Airport and 1 hour 45 minutes drive from Belfast International Airport. The house is also accessible by public transport, with a bus service running from Derry to Rathmullan on a regular basis.