The Golden Hour over Killashee Hotel

On a rare sunny November day in Ireland, Aoibhne and Haulie celebrated the kind of wedding every Irish wedding photographer dreams of capturing. Their love story unfolded in the enchanting surroundings of Killashee Hotel, one of the most romantic wedding venues in County Kildare, with warm light, joyful laughter, and timeless moments that made their wedding photography truly unforgettable.

From the moment the morning light streamed through the elegant windows of the bridal suite, the atmosphere was filled with excitement and emotion. Aoibhne’s lace gown shimmered softly in the sunshine — a detail every documentary wedding photographer hopes for when telling a couple’s story through natural, candid images. The soft rustle of bridesmaids’ dresses, the gentle hum of music, and the occasional happy tear created an atmosphere of genuine anticipation — the kind of storytelling moments that make authentic Irish wedding photography so powerful.

Aoibhne & Haulie

Killashee Hotel, Naas, County Kildare

Bride and groom pose under a stone gazebo, reception candlelit décor, bridal portrait in robe, wedding detail flatlay, and bride laughing with bridesmaids outside Killashee Hotel.

Bride and groom walking hand-in-hand in the garden at Killashee Hotel, with the bride in a lace gown carrying white roses and the groom in a black velvet tuxedo, passing a stone gazebo. Photo by Daragh McCann at Stargaze Photography in Kilkenny.

KILLASHEE WEDDING GALLERY

Down in the gardens, Haulie stood surrounded by Killashee’s autumn beauty — golden leaves, ivy-covered walls, and the crisp scent of November air. When Aoibhne appeared, the sun hit just right, bathing the path in that magical golden hour light every wedding photographer in Ireland adores. Their first look photos captured pure emotion: eyes locked, hands trembling, smiles that spoke louder than words.

Their ceremony took place under an arch of wild Irish blooms, where soft natural light filtered through the trees. Each exchange of vows and rings was documented with care — a blend of fine art wedding photography and photojournalistic storytelling that highlighted not just the beauty of the day, but the authenticity of the couple’s connection.

Wedding party celebrating outdoors at Killashee Hotel, with the bride and groom smiling in the center, bridesmaids cheering with bouquets, and groomsmen laughing in tuxedos. Photo by Daragh McCann at Stargaze Photography in Kilkenny.

Glowing Review from the Happy Couple.

“We couldn’t be more grateful to Daragh for covering our wedding! He stepped in last minute when we lost our original photographer and completely exceeded our expectations. Now, I couldn’t imagine having anyone else capture our special day”.

”From the start, he made me feel so relaxed, even when I was stressed out. His calm, fun personality really helped set the tone for the day, and the photos turned out absolutely stunning! Every shot was so beautifully captured, and you can really tell he went above and beyond to make sure everything was perfect. He truly made our day unforgettable. Highly recommend to anyone looking for a photographer who’s not only talented but also genuinely cares about making your day special”!

Thank you so much Daragh. From Aoibhne & Haulie

On the morning of the wedding at Killashee Hotel in Kildare, the bride stands smiling softly as her mother and sister help fasten the back of her gown.

Bride standing on a garden path at Killashee Hotel, wearing a lace gown with a long train and holding white roses, framed by tall hedges. Photo by Daragh McCann at Stargaze Photography in Kilkenny.

Groom getting ready in black-and-white portraits, couple photographed beneath a chandelier, group photos of bridal party outdoors, and couple smiling while holding a flower girl.

Bride and bridesmaids standing together in the garden at Killashee Hotel, holding white bouquets in the air, with the bride in a long white gown and bridesmaids in black dresses. Photo by Daragh McCann at Stargaze Photography in Kilkenny.

The evening celebration moved into the grand ballroom, lit with soft candlelight that offered the perfect backdrop for warm, moody reception photography. Guests toasted, laughed, and danced beneath the chandeliers while the photographer captured the candid joy of the night — the essence of what makes Irish weddings so unique: heart, laughter, and togetherness.

As the night drew to a close, Aoibhne and Haulie shared their first dance surrounded by friends and family, the room glowing with love. Outside, Killashee Hotel stood under a starlit sky, the golden warmth of the day lingering in every photograph.

For any couple dreaming of a romantic Irish wedding, Aoibhne and Haulie’s day at Killashee Hotel, County Kildare, is proof that magic truly happens when light, love, and storytelling come together. Their wedding photos are not just images — they are memories, beautifully preserved through the lens of an experienced Irish wedding photographer who captured the heart of their golden-hour fairytale.

Bride and groom walking hand-in-hand through the gardens at Killashee Hotel, with the groom helping the bride step up while she holds a bouquet of white roses. Photo by Daragh McCann at Stargaze Photography in Kilkenny.

The Perfect Start to the Day at Killashee Hotel in Kildare.

Luxurious wedding dinner setup at Killashee Hotel in Kildare, featuring round tables with gold chairs, elegant white floral arrangements, and tall candlelit centerpieces beneath sparkling chandeliers.

The Thomson Suite is designed for large weddings (100+ guests) with sweeping arches, high ceilings and chandeliers — providing a grand backdrop that works especially well for winter evenings when it gets dark early.

The Manor House / Original House sections offer a more intimate feel if you have different zones (e.g., drinks reception, lounge) which is useful for spreading out a big guest-list.
The venue mention open log burning fires and a “snug atmosphere” for the winter months in the Original House.

Bride and groom share a romantic kiss in the candlelit wedding reception room at Killashee Hotel in Kildare, surrounded by elegant white florals, gold décor, and sparkling chandeliers.

Top tips for getting married at Killashee Hotel in the Irish winter:

✨ Embrace the season and plan for cozy comfort!
Irish winters can be chilly and unpredictable, so lean into the atmosphere rather than fight it. Think warm lighting, rich colours, and hearty food — these make your celebration feel inviting no matter the weather.

Timing & light: Plan your ceremony earlier in the day since natural light fades quickly.
Photography: Have a backup plan for indoor photos — many Irish venues (like Killashee!) have stunning interiors perfect for portraits.
Guest comfort: Offer hot drinks on arrival or cozy wraps for outdoor moments.
Décor: Candles, fairy lights, and lush greenery make the setting feel magical against the winter backdrop.

Bride getting ready beside a Christmas tree, couple’s confetti-filled first dance, guests celebrating at reception, and outdoor bridal portrait in hotel gardens.

Bride and bridesmaids wearing matching pyjamas, sitting together reading personalised wedding newspapers on the morning of the wedding at Killashee Hotel in Kildare.

A Picture-Perfect Church Exit at Killashee: Hurling Team Guard of Honour

As the day unfolded, the newlyweds slipped away with their photographer for intimate couple portraits in the hotel’s historic gardens. The timing was perfect — the golden-hour sunlight painted the sky in hues of amber and rose, creating dreamy, cinematic portraits that reflected both elegance and emotion. Every detail, from Aoibhne’s veil catching the light to Haulie’s gentle smile, was captured in timeless, natural frames.

Bride and groom walking out of the church under a guard of honour formed by the groom’s hurling teammates holding hurleys overhead.

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Bride and groom walking hand-in-hand down the grand staircase at Killashee Hotel, sharing a quiet moment together.

Groom waiting in garden walkway, newlyweds exiting ceremony, candlelit reception room, lively dancing, and couple lifted during sparkler exit at night.

““Daragh stepped in last minute when we lost our original photographer and completely exceeded our expectations””

Flatlay of the bride’s accessories and bouquet on the morning of the wedding at Killashee Hotel.

Top Tips for planning a wedding at Killashee Hotel in 2026

Bride in a satin robe admiring her wedding gown on the morning of her wedding at Killashee Hotel.

“A big emphasis was placed on local Kildare Wedding Suppliers”.

Bride and groom smiling during portraits in the gardens of Killashee Hotel.

Pure Luxury at Killashee Hotel

Newly married couple making a joyful entrance into their wedding reception at Killashee Hotel.

Groom giving a speech during the wedding reception at Killashee Hotel.

Begin your journey to “I do” with a touch of elegance and timeless beauty at Killashee Hotel County Kildare.

Bride and groom celebrating with a sparkler exit at Killashee Hotel, surrounded by their wedding party.

A Sparkling Celebration Under the Night Sky at Killashee

Bride and groom celebrating their first dance at Killashee Hotel as golden confetti falls around them.

As the evening unfolded, the celebrations at Killashee Hotel took on a magical glow. After dinner and heartfelt speeches, the newlyweds stepped outside with their bridal party for a sparkling send-off beneath the night sky. Surrounded by friends holding glowing sparklers, the bride and groom stole a moment just for themselves — laughing, embracing, and letting the joy of the day sink in. The grand architecture of Killashee created a romantic backdrop, while the warm flicker of candlelight and sparklers added a dreamy, cinematic feel. This moment wasn’t posed — it was pure excitement, happiness, and connection — the kind of memory that stays with you long after the music fades. It was the perfect way to begin the party and celebrate love that lights up a room.