Are you planning your dream wedding in Ireland from the US?
Markree Castle is one of the most loved wedding venues in the country — especially among American couples looking for a romantic and exclusive Irish castle experience.
From its stunning architecture and lush gardens to the on-site accommodation and complete privacy, Markree Castle offers everything couples from abroad are searching for.
You can explore some of my real weddings at this location by visiting the Markree Castle Wedding Gallery.
In this article, I’ll share why so many US-based couples choose this incredible location, what makes it different, and how to plan your wedding there with confidence.
Top Reasons American Couples Pick Markree Castle
For many American couples searching for a wedding destination in Ireland, Markree Castle stands out as a clear favorite. But what exactly makes it so appealing to couples planning their wedding from the US?
First, there’s the setting. Markree Castle offers everything you imagine when dreaming of an Irish castle wedding — dramatic staircases, lush greenery, historic charm, and complete privacy for your celebration. Unlike tourist-driven venues, Markree feels personal and exclusive from the moment you arrive.
Second, the castle provides on-site accommodation, which means your guests (especially those flying from the US) can stay in comfort without having to move between locations. And with an elegant chapel, garden ceremony options, and a full reception hall — everything happens in one magical place.
Finally, couples say the staff at Markree Castle make them feel completely supported — even from overseas. The team is experienced in working with US-based couples, offering guidance, planning support, and a warm welcome from the very beginning.
Whether you’re hosting a big celebration or planning an elopement with just a few guests, Markree delivers an experience that’s both timeless and effortless.
Planning a Destination Wedding at Markree from the US – Logistics & Expectations
Planning a Destination Wedding at Markree from the US – Logistics & Expectations
Planning a wedding overseas might seem like a big task, but for American couples choosing Markree Castle, the process is surprisingly smooth. One of the reasons is that the venue regularly works with international couples, especially from the US, and has a team that understands how to simplify the experience.
The first step is easy: reach out to the castle’s team or your photographer (like me!) to check availability and start building your ideal timeline. From there, everything from ceremony setup to guest accommodation and dining is coordinated efficiently, with flexibility to meet your schedule and preferences — even across time zones.
Markree also works seamlessly with trusted local planners, celebrants, and stylists, many of whom are familiar with working with couples remotely. You’ll never feel out of the loop, even if you’re managing everything from across the ocean.
Whether you’re planning your wedding over Zoom or making one quick trip to Ireland before the big day, the logistics are completely manageable — and incredibly worth it.
This is why working with a Destination Wedding Photographer who knows the venue inside and out makes all the difference. I’ll help you navigate timing, light, and layout so your photos tell the full story of your day — effortlessly.
Markree Castle Elopement from the USA – A More Intimate Option
Not every couple wants a full-scale wedding — and more and more Americans are choosing to elope in Ireland for a quiet, romantic, and truly personal experience. Markree Castle is one of the few venues in Ireland that offers both grand wedding celebrations and elopements with equal care and beauty.
For elopement couples coming from the US, the idea of having an entire Irish castle as your backdrop — without the need to coordinate dozens of guests — is incredibly appealing. The castle offers beautifully designed private suites, ceremony locations both indoors and out, and full access to the estate, gardens, and surrounding landscape for portraits.
The best part? Elopements at Markree still feel luxurious and cinematic, just without the big crowd. You’ll have time to slow down, enjoy every moment, and get stunning photography without the pressure of a rigid timeline.
As a Candid Wedding Photographer, I love working with eloping couples because the day is fully centered around your connection — real, raw, and completely relaxed. And if you’re flying in from the US, I’ll help you make the most of every minute while you’re here.
Photography at Markree Castle – What US Couples Can Expect
When you’re planning a wedding from the United States, one of the biggest concerns is whether your photographer will truly understand your vision — especially when you’re only meeting in person for the first time on the wedding day.
That’s why I make it a priority to build a connection with every couple ahead of time, whether through video calls, questionnaires, or even a pre-wedding shoot if you’re visiting Ireland before the big day.
As a Documentary Wedding Photographer, my approach is simple: let the day unfold naturally, and be ready to capture everything from the big, emotional moments to the quiet in-betweens. For US couples, this style resonates deeply — you get real, unposed storytelling that reflects who you are, not just what the day looked like.
You’ll receive a sneak peek just days after your wedding (a favorite for couples flying home) and a full gallery that tells the entire story, from the first look to the dance floor. Whether you’re planning a full wedding or an elopement, your photos will be one of the most powerful ways to relive the experience again and again.
And because I know Markree Castle inside and out — from the light at the staircase to the best garden angles at golden hour — you’ll never lose time figuring out where to go or what to do. I’ll guide you just enough, while letting you be fully present.
Meet Your Markree Castle Wedding Photographer
When you’re planning a wedding from the United States, one of the biggest concerns is whether your photographer will truly understand your vision — especially when you’re only meeting in person for the first time on the wedding day.
That’s why I make it a priority to build a connection with every couple ahead of time, whether through video calls, questionnaires, or even a pre-wedding shoot if you’re visiting Ireland before the big day.
As a Documentary Wedding Photographer, my approach is simple: let the day unfold naturally, and be ready to capture everything from the big, emotional moments to the quiet in-betweens. For US couples, this style resonates deeply — you get real, unposed storytelling that reflects who you are, not just what the day looked like.
You’ll receive a sneak peek just days after your wedding (a favorite for couples flying home) and a full gallery that tells the entire story, from the first look to the dance floor. Whether you’re planning a full wedding or an elopement, your photos will be one of the most powerful ways to relive the experience again and again.
And because I know Markree Castle inside and out — from the light at the staircase to the best garden angles at golden hour — you’ll never lose time figuring out where to go or what to do. I’ll guide you just enough, while letting you be fully present.
What Couples Say About Their Markree Castle Wedding Experience
“We flew from the US and had both a private ceremony and a full wedding party months apart — Wojciech photographed both days and made it feel effortless. He blended into the day like a friend, yet captured moments we didn’t even know were happening. From the sneak peek to the full gallery, everything exceeded our expectations. If you’re planning a destination wedding at Markree Castle, we couldn’t recommend him more.”
– Hilary C.
“We knew from the start we wanted Wojciech as our photographer. From our engagement shoot to the big day at Markree Castle, everything felt natural and joyful. We couldn’t believe how much emotion and detail he captured. Even planning everything from abroad didn’t feel stressful — he made it all so easy.”
– Lorena & Cillian
“We traveled from Holland for a photoshoot with Wojciech and it turned out to be one of the best decisions we made. He made us feel instantly at ease, and the photos were beyond what we expected. If you’re coming from abroad and wondering whether it’s worth it — it absolutely is.”
– GLN (via Google)
“Even though it rained on our wedding day at Markree Castle, Wojciech found a moment without rain and gave us photos we will treasure forever. He captured our day so naturally and made us feel completely comfortable. His knowledge of the venue made everything so smooth.”
– Michelle M.
Frequently Asked Questions – For US Couples
Can we legally get married at Markree Castle as US citizens?
Yes, absolutely. Many US couples choose Markree Castle for their legal or symbolic ceremonies. Just make sure to start the legal paperwork in Ireland a few months in advance or consider doing the legal part at home and having your full celebration here.
Is Markree Castle suitable for smaller weddings or elopements?
Yes – while the castle can host large weddings, it’s also perfect for intimate elopements. Many couples from the US choose Markree for romantic, private celebrations with just a few guests.
Can we meet the photographer before the wedding if we’re coming from the US?
Absolutely. I regularly work with couples from abroad and offer Zoom consultations, planning calls, and flexible timelines to make sure we connect long before the wedding day.
Do you offer sneak peeks or previews for couples returning to the US?
Yes! I send a curated sneak peek just days after the wedding — perfect for sharing with friends and family back home before the full gallery is ready.
Frequently Asked Questions – For UK Couples
Is it easy to travel from the UK to Markree Castle?
Yes. Sligo is well-connected to Dublin and Knock airports, and many UK couples make a weekend of it with guests staying on-site at the castle or nearby accommodations.
Can Markree Castle accommodate both the ceremony and reception?
Yes – the castle has a private chapel, outdoor ceremony space, and a beautiful reception hall. Everything happens in one place, which makes it perfect for UK guests traveling together.
Can we book photography if we’re only visiting Ireland once before the wedding?
Definitely. Many UK couples only visit once — or not at all — before the big day. I handle most of the planning online and will guide you through everything before you arrive.
Do you offer flexible coverage for UK-based weddings or weekend events?
Yes. Whether you’re planning a one-day celebration or a full weekend wedding in Ireland, I offer flexible packages to suit your plans and travel schedule.
Let’s Create Your Dream Wedding Story at Markree Castle
If you’re planning a wedding in Ireland from abroad — whether you’re based in the US or the UK — you deserve a photographer who not only understands the logistics but also the emotion, culture, and story behind every decision.
I’ve worked with couples from around the world who chose Markree Castle for its intimacy, elegance, and timeless atmosphere. Whether you’re eloping or hosting a full celebration, I’ll help you feel confident, calm, and completely present.
Let’s talk about how I can help you create something unforgettable — with photos that will last far beyond the day itself.
