There’s something truly magical about the getting ready moments at Markree Castle – especially when the bridesmaids are involved. From the laughter in the Butler’s Kitchen to the final touches in the Bride’s Suite, this wedding morning was filled with energy, emotion, and elegance.
As a Destination Wedding Photographer, I often find that some of the most meaningful photographs come long before the ceremony. This gallery celebrates those in-between moments — champagne toasts, first looks with bridesmaids, the bride slipping into her dress — all captured with a Documentary Wedding Photographer approach.
Whether you’re planning a romantic castle wedding in Ireland or just looking for inspiration, this story will show you how powerful the quiet beginnings can be. Scroll down and enjoy the visuals.
Morning Vibes in the Butler’s Kitchen
The morning began in the cozy atmosphere of the Butler’s Kitchen — one of the most intimate corners of Markree Castle. Surrounded by antique charm and warm tones, the bridesmaids shared quiet chats, makeup touch-ups, and a few laughs that set the tone for the rest of the day.
This space, tucked away just below the main reception rooms, allowed the bride and her bridal party to enjoy complete privacy and comfort. With soft light pouring in and just enough space to move freely, it became a perfect backdrop for Candid Wedding Photographer moments — natural, emotional, unposed.
What made it even more special? The calm before the first look — captured just steps away outside, where the castle walls met the winter garden.
Bridesmaids Portraits & Champagne Moments
Between lipstick touches and last-minute dress steaming, the bridesmaids gathered for a few quiet portraits. Some were captured casually — sitting by the window, adjusting shoes, or toasting with champagne. Others were taken intentionally, surrounded by the warm textures of Markree Castle’s interiors.
These in-between moments are what I value most as a Candid Wedding Photographer — when the energy is real and the connection is effortless.
The laughter, the mirror glances, the glimmer in their eyes as they saw the bride in her dress for the first time — every frame in this part of the morning felt alive. And if you’re wondering whether Markree Castle is the right space for prep photos: the answer is yes. Light, character, emotion — it’s all here.
Final Touches in the Bride’s Suite
As the time drew near, we moved into the Bride’s Suite — a softly lit room known for its vintage mirrors, carved details, and elegant natural tones. This is where the final preparations took place: the bride stepping into her dress, delicate laces being zipped, and heels adjusted by the antique claw-foot tub.
The suite offered the perfect light for quiet bridal portraits — a timeless setting where everything felt still for a few minutes before the celebration unfolded. It was here that the elegance of the day really took shape.
If you’re looking for inspiration for your own Art Wedding Photographer moments — this is one of those rooms where light, space and heritage all come together.
First Look with Bridesmaids
Before heading outside for the ceremony, the bride took a quiet moment inside to reveal her look to her bridesmaids — and it was everything. Gasps, hugs, laughter, and a few tears filled the room as they saw her fully dressed for the first time.
This First Look with Bridesmaids took place near the Butler’s Kitchen, just before we stepped out into the crisp air. It was emotional and fun — and totally unposed. The joy on their faces, the excitement in their gestures — these are the moments that matter most.
As a Documentary Wedding Photographer, I don’t stage reactions — I wait for them. And in a place like Markree Castle, you don’t have to do much. The emotion lives in the people — and the walls just hold it beautifully.
Bridal Portraits in the Billiard Room / Markree Castle
In the final minutes before the ceremony, we stepped into the Billiard Room — one of Markree Castle’s most atmospheric and refined spaces. With its dark wooden paneling, vintage details, and soft natural light, it offered the perfect setting for timeless bridal portraits.
Here, the bride took a quiet moment for herself — reflected in the mirror, surrounded by stillness, and framed by elegance. She was later joined by her bridesmaids for a series of group portraits that felt natural, joyful, and effortlessly graceful.
Whether candid or gently posed, each frame from this room tells a story of anticipation and presence. As an Elopement Wedding Photographer Dublin, I find that rooms like this — rich in heritage and filled with light — create the kind of magic you can’t replicate.
About Me
Hi, I’m Wojciech Koza – a wedding photographer based in Sligo, Ireland, known for a calm, documentary approach and a deep respect for the natural rhythm of a wedding day. I quietly observe, adapt, and guide when needed — always with kindness, intuition, and a camera that rarely draws attention.
Couples often describe me as relaxed, easy to be around, and incredibly discreet. I’ve worked with international clients from the US, Canada, Australia, and across Europe — and I understand the dynamics of multicultural weddings, where emotions run deep and families often meet for the very first time.
Over the years, I’ve had the honour of photographing weddings in some of Ireland’s most iconic venues, including:
- Markree Castle
- Cabra Castle
- Cloughan Castle
- Belleek Castle
- Barberstown Castle
- Dromoland Castle
- Kilkea Castle / Kirkton Park
- Glenlo Abbey & Glin Castle
- …as well as countless beautiful moments throughout Dublin, Wicklow, Galway and along the wild west coast.
My style blends unobtrusive storytelling with gentle direction when needed — always focused on connection, emotion, and natural beauty. Whether you’re planning a quiet elopement in the Irish rain or a weekend-long castle wedding with 200 guests, I approach each story with the same care and curiosity.
📣 Recently Featured on One Fab Day
My work was most recently featured on One Fab Day, in a destination wedding at Juniper Barn. A couple from California exchanged golden-hour vows in the Irish countryside, surrounded by wildflowers, oysters, and a laid-back celebration that felt deeply personal.
Testimonials – Markree Castle Weddings
“Wojciech perfectly captured the essence of our day at Markree Castle. His calm presence and keen eye for detail made us feel at ease, and the photos are simply breathtaking.”
— Sarah & Liam
“From the first look to the final dance, Wojciech was there to capture every moment without ever being intrusive. Our wedding at Markree Castle wouldn’t have been the same without him.”
— Emily & John
“Choosing Wojciech as our photographer was the best decision we made. He beautifully documented our wedding at Markree Castle, and the photos are a treasure we’ll cherish forever.”
— Aoife & Michael
Frequently Asked Questions – For Couples from the USA & UK
Can we book you without visiting Ireland first?
Yes – many of my couples are planning their wedding from abroad and we handle everything remotely. I offer video consultations and help with timeline planning. You’ll receive a clear, contract-based agreement and full support leading up to the big day.
How early should we book Markree Castle and your photography services?
Most couples book both the venue and photography 12–18 months in advance, especially for summer dates. Markree Castle is a popular choice for destination weddings, so securing your photographer early ensures smooth coordination with the venue and other vendors.
Do you help with timeline planning if we don’t have a wedding planner?
Absolutely. I assist with photography-friendly timelines based on natural light and the flow of the day at Markree Castle. Whether you have a planner or not, I’ll help you create a stress-free structure that fits your vision.
What’s the best time of year for a wedding at Markree Castle?
Markree Castle is beautiful year-round. Summer gives you a chance for an outdoor ceremony and portraits in the gardens. Winter weddings are intimate and atmospheric, especially with candlelight and roaring fireplaces inside. I’ve worked in all seasons — each has its magic.
Can we include additional events, like a welcome dinner or post-wedding brunch?
Yes – many international couples extend their celebration over several days. I offer multi-day coverage, and we can include a welcome shoot, rehearsal dinner, or next-day portraits. Markree Castle offers great spaces for pre- and post-wedding moments.
Planning Your Own Markree Castle Wedding?
If these getting ready moments at Markree Castle inspired you, and you’re dreaming of your own Irish castle wedding, I’d love to hear your story. Whether you’re planning a destination celebration or an intimate elopement, I’m here to document it with care, artistry, and attention to detail.
👉 Get in touch here – let’s create something unforgettable together.
