Cloghan Castle Wedding / Intimate Destination Wedding in Ireland

      July 31, 2025

      This stunning intimate destination wedding at Cloghan Castle beautifully captures the romantic essence of weddings held in Ireland. Located near Loughrea in County Galway, Cloghan Castle provides breathtaking landscapes perfect for your dream wedding ceremony.

      From preparations to final celebrations, every moment at Cloghan Castle is exceptionally picturesque. The castle’s elegant rooms created a charming setting for the bride and groom’s preparations, capturing candid and art wedding photography flawlessly. Additionally, the venue offers numerous beautiful locations for filming first looks and bridal party shots—one of the top choices among destination wedding photographers, intimate wedding photographers, candid wedding photographers, and documentary wedding photographers.

      The First Look was especially emotional, set by a tranquil lake with the historic castle as a dramatic backdrop. Bridal party portraits took advantage of many scenic spots, illustrating why Cloghan Castle is equally suited for both intimate weddings and larger wedding celebrations in Ireland.

      The ceremony took place outdoors in the enchanting castle gardens, providing a romantic outdoor wedding experience. The professional and friendly wedding coordination team at Cloghan Castle—particularly Lourda and Kim—ensured every detail was perfectly executed.

      Guests enjoyed a spectacular meal in the elegantly decorated dining room, styled by the venue’s dedicated team. Speeches, cake cutting, and evening celebrations unfolded seamlessly despite Ireland’s famously unpredictable weather—demonstrating the flexibility and charm of Cloghan Castle. Our portrait session with the bride and groom perfectly captured their joy and romance.

      To conclude this extraordinary day, guests shared a memorable first dance surrounded by the historic beauty of Cloghan Castle, creating lasting memories. Don’t miss our featured Cloghan Castle Wedding Slideshow for even more beautiful moments.

      We highly recommend Michele Feeney, an HSE‑registered solemniser and Celtic Soul Ceremony celebrant, who frequently officiates at Cloghan Castle and delivers ceremonies filled with warmth, joy, and authenticity. Couples love her deeply personal approach, calming presence, and professional reliability—making her one of the most sought-after celebrants in the region  Stay tuned for upcoming posts with invaluable advice for couples planning destination weddings from abroad (USA, UK), particularly featuring intimate weddings in Castle venues.

      About Me

      I’m a Galway-based wedding photographer specialising in intimate destination weddings, art wedding photography and documentary style coverage. Capturing candid, heartfelt moments is my passion. Every Cloghan Castle wedding is a unique story waiting to be told.

      FAQ for USA & UK Couples Planning a Wedding in Ireland

      Can we legally get married in Ireland as a US couple?
      Yes! Non-residents can legally marry in Ireland. You must give at least 3 months’ notice to the HSE Registrar and may need to attend an in-person appointment. Your celebrant (like Michele Feeney) will guide you through the legal steps.
      Can UK couples legally get married in Ireland after Brexit?
      Yes. UK citizens can still legally marry in Ireland. You’ll need to give at least 3 months’ notice to the HSE Registrar and may be required to attend an in-person meeting. Your celebrant will help guide the process.
      Is Cloghan Castle a good venue for an intimate destination wedding?
      Absolutely. Cloghan Castle is perfect for smaller weddings with 20–60 guests, offering both indoor and outdoor ceremony options, luxurious rooms, and complete privacy for the entire day.
      Do we need a wedding planner if we’re flying in from the US or UK?
      While it’s not required, having a local planner or working with a photographer familiar with Irish venues can help coordinate vendors, schedules, and legal requirements efficiently—especially for destination weddings.
      Can we include American or British traditions during our Irish wedding?
      Of course! Many couples blend cultural traditions—like unity ceremonies, first looks, or personal vows—into their Irish castle weddings. Cloghan Castle is flexible and welcoming to all cultures.
      How far is Cloghan Castle from a major airport?
      Cloghan Castle is about 1.5–2 hours from Shannon Airport or Dublin Airport by car. Transportation for guests can be arranged via private bus or shuttle service.
      Is there accommodation on-site for guests?
      Yes. Cloghan Castle offers several luxurious bedrooms for the couple and closest family or friends. Additional accommodation can be arranged in nearby Loughrea or Galway.
      Can we bring our own vendors (photographer, florist) from the UK or US?
      Yes, but many local vendors specialize in destination weddings. UK vendors are allowed to work in Ireland if insured. I regularly work with international couples and offer both photography and vendor guidance.
      What’s the best season for a destination wedding in Ireland?
      May through September offer the best light and weather for outdoor weddings, but Irish castles like Cloghan are stunning year-round—especially with moody winter light.
      How soon should we book our destination wedding in Ireland?
      Ideally 12–18 months in advance, especially for summer weddings or full castle buyouts. I recommend booking your venue and key vendors early to secure your dates.


      Cloghan Castle Wedding Gallery
      Discover a collection of real weddings captured at Cloghan Castle — from spring elopements to grand summer celebrations.→ Explore the Full Gallery

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