Cabra Castle Wedding is one of the most magical experiences a couple can choose in Ireland — especially for those dreaming of an intimate celebration that’s true to who they are.
This wedding was beautifully unique: there was no traditional ceremony. The couple, a lovely match from Ireland and abroad, decided to skip the formalities and focus entirely on what mattered most — being together, surrounded by loved ones, in the heart of Cabra Castle.
As a Dublin Wedding Photographer, I’ve captured many unforgettable moments across Ireland, but this day stood out for its authenticity and warmth.
You can discover more heartfelt moments from this day here:
👉 Cabra Castle Wedding Gallery – Real Weddings
Getting Ready at Cabra Castle
The day began slowly, with the couple getting ready in separate parts of Cabra Castle. The rooms are full of old-world charm — stone walls, vintage mirrors, and large windows letting in that perfect soft Irish light.
The bride got ready in one of the elegant castle suites, surrounded by laughter, calm energy, and details that mattered — her dress, handwritten notes, and timeless accessories. Meanwhile, the groom had his own quiet space, reflecting and preparing for the day in a beautifully lit room with views over the gardens.
This part of the day is always one of my favourites to document. It’s where anticipation lives. It’s also where the castle’s rich textures and tones make every frame feel cinematic. You can truly feel the character of the venue in these moments — which is why Cabra Castle Weddings are so visually powerful.
As a Dublin Elopement Photographer, I’ve seen how important it is to give couples space to breathe — and Cabra Castle offers just that.
First Look in the Castle Gardens
One of the most emotional moments of this Cabra Castle Wedding was the First Look — a quiet meeting between the bride and groom before the guests arrived. With the castle standing proudly in the background and birdsong echoing through the gardens, it was a moment just for the two of them.
They met beneath the tall trees, where the path curves gently through the lawn. No distractions. No pressure. Just raw emotion — teary eyes, warm smiles, and a deep breath of “we’re doing this our way.”
Capturing this kind of moment is why I love working as a Candid Wedding Photographer — nothing posed, nothing forced, just real connection in a perfect Irish setting.
This First Look also set the tone for the rest of the day. There was no rush, no stress — just two people, completely present, ready to celebrate their love at Cabra Castle.
Reception Without Ceremony
There was no official ceremony, no aisle walk, and no exchange of vows in front of a crowd — and yet, this celebration at Cabra Castle felt as meaningful and emotional as any traditional wedding.
After the First Look, the couple welcomed their guests directly into the reception. Drinks were served, hugs were exchanged, and the mood was light and joyful. The castle’s reception spaces offered the perfect mix of intimacy and elegance — ideal for smaller weddings that still want that “wow” experience.
The speeches were heartfelt — full of humour, love, and tears. Friends and family gathered around tables decorated with soft florals and candlelight, celebrating two people who did things their own way.
As a Documentary Wedding Photographer, I love capturing moments that aren’t staged — like the father tearing up mid-speech, a friend raising a glass with a shaky hand, or the bride smiling quietly, taking it all in.
You can explore more natural moments like these in the full Cabra Castle Wedding Gallery — real stories told through real emotion.
Couple Session Portraits at Cabra Castle
Before the reception began, we took time to explore the castle grounds and capture a few relaxed portraits. With no ceremony and no timeline pressure, we could slow down, breathe, and create something real and timeless.
From the castle’s iconic front steps to the tall evergreens in the garden, every location added its own atmosphere. Inside, the golden chandeliers and historic staircases offered a dramatic, cinematic backdrop that contrasted beautifully with the quiet tenderness between the couple.
These moments — just the two of them — are some of my favourites. Unposed, elegant, and deeply personal. This is what storytelling photography is all about.
Dancing & the Castle at Night
As the sun set behind Cabra Castle, the celebration moved into its final and most carefree chapter — the dancing. The couple shared their first moves on the floor surrounded by loved ones, not as part of a scheduled “first dance,” but as a spontaneous moment of pure joy.
Laughter echoed through the candlelit reception room, guests joined in without hesitation, and the music carried everyone late into the night. It was a reminder that intimate weddings can still be vibrant and full of life.
Outside, the castle lit up against the night sky. Some guests wandered into the garden for quiet conversations under the stars. It felt magical — the kind of evening you never want to end.
For couples looking for a relaxed, elegant, and truly personal celebration, Cabra Castle Weddings offer the perfect setting. And as an Art Wedding Photographer, I can honestly say: photographing love stories like this is a privilege.
🟩 About Me
Hi, I’m Wojciech — a Destination Wedding Photographer based in Ireland. I specialise in capturing real, unposed moments for couples who want their wedding day to feel natural, honest, and full of emotion.
Whether you’re planning a grand castle celebration or an intimate wedding like this one at Cabra Castle, I’m here to document your story with care and attention to every detail.
As a Dublin Wedding Photographer, I often work with international couples who fall in love with Ireland’s magic. My style blends storytelling with beautiful composition — so your photos will look and feel just like your day: emotional, elegant, and entirely yours.
If you’re looking for a Candid Wedding Photographer, someone who will capture what really matters — the quiet in-between moments, the joy, the soul of the day — I’d love to hear from you.
Kind Words From Couples
Katie & Tim
We were absolutely delighted with the photos! Wojciech was very easy to work with before the wedding, and we felt totally relaxed knowing everything was in good hands. On the day, he and Jack just got on with things — no stress, no fuss. The quality and number of photos we received were outstanding. We loved the mix of natural moments and classic portraits. Highly recommended to anyone looking for professional wedding photography!
Emily & Daniel
We can’t thank Wojciech enough for the incredible work he did on our wedding day. The photos captured the atmosphere so perfectly — from getting ready in the morning through the ceremony and into the dancing. Even our engagement shoot in Strandhill was beautifully done. Wojciech is calm, kind, and pays attention to every detail. His documentary style is exactly what we were looking for, and our families loved it too. Sincerely recommended!
Roseanna & Declan
An amazing photographer! Wojciech captured our day with such heart and skill. We were planning our wedding from New Zealand and had to organise everything via Skype and email — he made the process smooth and stress-free. He even did an engagement shoot for us the week before the wedding so we’d feel more relaxed. Almost a year later, I still look through our photos weekly and always notice something new. I wanted someone who could capture the real stuff — the laughter, the tears, the glances — and Wojciech delivered all of that and more. We’re so grateful!
Lynne
Markree Castle was the perfect setting for our intimate wedding. Wojciech made us feel incredibly comfortable in front of the camera, and his documentary style captured every emotion beautifully. The photos are full of magic, light, and joy — exactly what we had hoped for.
FAQ – Planning an Intimate Cabra Castle Wedding from Abroad
Can we get married at Cabra Castle without a legal ceremony?
Absolutely. Many couples choose to have a symbolic or spiritual ceremony at Cabra Castle, especially if they’ve already completed the legal part back home. This gives you full freedom to focus on what matters most — your story, your people, and a stress-free celebration.
We’re based in the US. Is it hard to plan a wedding in Ireland?
Not at all. Most of my couples are from the US, and they plan everything remotely. Cabra Castle is experienced in working with international clients, and as your photographer, I’ll guide you through every visual step — from timelines to location ideas. We often plan together over Zoom or email, and it works beautifully.
Is Cabra Castle a good venue for small, intimate weddings?
Yes — it’s one of the best in Ireland for intimate celebrations. There are gorgeous spaces for smaller gatherings, and it never feels too big or overwhelming. Whether you’re inviting 10 guests or 50, the castle adapts perfectly and still offers that grand fairytale feel.
Do you photograph non-traditional weddings?
Absolutely. As a Candid and Documentary Wedding Photographer, I specialise in non-traditional weddings — like this one without a ceremony. My style focuses on capturing genuine emotion, beautiful light, and the real atmosphere of the day, whatever format it takes.
Can you recommend local vendors and help with the timeline?
Yes! I regularly work with amazing florists, planners, and stylists near Cabra Castle and across Ireland. If you’re planning from abroad, I’ll be happy to recommend trusted vendors and help you create a smooth, stress-free timeline that fits your unique vision.
More questions? Here’s what couples from the US often ask:
Can we legally get married at Cabra Castle if we’re from the US?
Yes, but it requires some paperwork and planning. Most couples from the US choose to handle the legal part at home and have a symbolic ceremony in Ireland — it’s much simpler and more relaxed that way. I’m happy to connect you with planners who can help with the legal process if needed.
How far is Cabra Castle from Dublin Airport?
Cabra Castle is just over an hour’s drive from Dublin Airport, making it very accessible for international guests. Many couples arrange a group transfer or shuttle for convenience — especially helpful if you’re bringing family from abroad.
Do we need a wedding planner if we’re organizing from abroad?
Not necessarily. Many couples plan everything themselves with the help of experienced local vendors — including photographers like me. That said, if you’d prefer full assistance, I can recommend trusted planners who specialise in destination weddings in Ireland.
🟩 CTA – Ready to Plan Your Own Cabra Castle Wedding?
If you’re dreaming of an intimate, relaxed celebration in a real Irish castle, I’d love to help you make it happen. Whether you’re based in Ireland, the US, or anywhere else in the world — we can plan together with ease.
Get in touch to tell me more about your vision. Let’s capture it with timeless, emotional images — no stress, no posing, just your story.
👉 Contact Wojciech Koza Photography
🟩 Related Posts – More Cabra Castle Inspiration
Planning a celebration at Cabra Castle? Here are more stories and helpful guides that might inspire you and help you plan a wedding that truly reflects you:
1. Cabra Castle Wedding / Captured by a Top Cabra Castle Photographer
A real wedding full of timeless moments and candid emotions, beautifully captured at Cabra Castle.
2. Cabra Castle Wedding Packages / How Much Does It Cost?
Everything you need to know about planning costs, photography, and what’s included when getting married at Cabra Castle.
3. Cabra Castle Wedding Cost / Everything You Need to Know
An in-depth guide to budgeting for your Irish castle wedding, with real examples and honest insights.
4. Cabra Castle Wedding Photos by a Dublin Wedding Photographer
A winter celebration full of elegance and atmosphere — a great look at Cabra Castle’s beauty in the colder season.
5. Cabra Castle Wedding – Real Wedding Gallery
Browse the full collection of real weddings at Cabra Castle, each one unique, emotional, and beautifully documented.
Still Curious? More Questions Answered Below
Do we need to bring documents to get married in Ireland?
If you’re planning a legal ceremony, yes — you’ll need to provide documents to the Irish authorities at least 3 months in advance. However, most international couples choose to handle the legal part in their home country and have a symbolic wedding here, which requires no paperwork at all.
Can we have a symbolic wedding at Cabra Castle and make it feel meaningful?
Absolutely. Symbolic weddings are deeply personal and often more emotional than traditional ceremonies. You can write your own vows, include readings, or simply focus on the atmosphere — all within the stunning surroundings of Cabra Castle.
Is there accommodation at Cabra Castle for our guests?
Yes. Cabra Castle offers luxurious on-site accommodation for guests, making it ideal for destination weddings. There are also nearby hotels and B&Bs in the region if you’re planning for a larger group.
When is the best time of year to get married in Cabra Castle?
Cabra Castle is stunning year-round. Summer and early autumn offer long days and warm light, while winter weddings feel cozy and atmospheric. The venue looks magical in any season, and I’ve photographed beautiful weddings there from March to December.
Can we bring our own celebrant or officiant?
Yes — especially for symbolic ceremonies. You’re free to invite a celebrant who fits your style and beliefs. I’ve worked with celebrants from Ireland, the UK, and the US — and I’m happy to recommend some trusted names.
