She studied for exams, we planned a castle wedding in Mayo!
I recently had my wedding in Ireland and worked with Hattie from Peach Perfect Weddings, and I truly cannot say enough wonderful things about the experience or Hattie!! From the very start, Hattie absolutely blew me away with her professionalism, warmth, and attention to detail. Not only did she take care of EVERYTHING, from planning and logistics to communicating with vendors, she did it all with such kindness and calm energy that made the entire process enjoyable. I was studying for an important exam at the same time as planning my very last-minute wedding in another country, and Hattie went above and beyond to make sure everything was seamless and stress-free. Even the system Peach Perfect Weddings uses for payments, organization, and communication is incredibly user-friendly and easy to navigate. It made keeping track of everything simple, even from abroad, which was such a relief during such a busy time. Thanks to Hattie, our wedding day was absolutely perfect, more beautiful and memorable than I ever could have imagined. Every detail was handled flawlessly, allowing us to fully relax and enjoy the moment. Hattie is the reason our day was so special, and I can’t thank her or Peach Perfect Weddings enough. If you’re considering a destination wedding in Ireland or any of their other amazing locations, Peach Perfect Planners is a must! You’ll be in the best hands possible!
Story
Some couples dream of grand ballrooms filled with hundreds of guests. Kenzie and James dreamed of something different — an intimate destination wedding in Ireland in an Irish castle with a little over ten people who matter most.
On October 10, 2025, they flew from the US to Co. Mayo and made that dream a reality at Ashford Castle.
Finding the perfect venue
When Kenzie and James started planning their small wedding in Ireland, they knew exactly what they wanted: a venue that felt like stepping into a fairytale, with accommodation for everyone on-site and activities beyond golf. Ashford Castle checked every box.
This stunning 800-year-old castle sits on 350 acres along the shores of Lough Corrib, offering everything from falconry and archery to whiskey tastings and spa treatments.
For a groom who loves animals, the estate's wildlife experiences sealed the deal. The moment they saw photos of the gardens and castle interiors, they knew this was it.
The planning story: Stress-free from across the Atlantic
Here's the thing about planning a last-minute destination wedding while studying for an important exam — it sounds impossible.
But working with our planner, Hattie, made it seamless. From coordinating with vendors to managing logistics, Hattie handled every detail so Kenzie could focus on her studies while still getting the wedding of her dreams.
The couple wanted simplicity: a black-and-white color scheme, a solo guitarist instead of a DJ, and an intimate feel throughout.
Our wedding planner in Ireland made it happen, keeping communication clear and organized through her great relationships with every vendor. Even from thousands of miles away, Kenzie and James felt fully supported every step of the way.
An intimate garden ceremony worth crossing an ocean for
On a perfect October afternoon, a small group of guests gathered in Ashford Castle's gardens for a ceremony that felt pure magic. This is one of our finest wedding venues in Ireland with a fairytale garden for the most intimate affairs.
Ireland's autumn light filtered through ancient trees as Kenzie and James exchanged vows, accompanied by a talented guitarist and singer whose acoustic melodies set the perfect intimate tone.
October in Ireland offers something special — generous sunlight without summer crowds, and weather that's reliably beautiful for outdoor celebrations.
The garden setting provided natural elegance that needed no extra decoration. Just two people, their closest loved ones, and centuries-old castle grounds creating a moment no one present will forget.
Capturing castle magic in their Irish destination wedding photos
After the ceremony, Kenzie and James explored the estate with their photographer, capturing the grandeur of Ashford Castle from every angle. Wide shots showcasing the couple against the castle's impressive facade. Intimate moments in hidden corners of the grounds.
The photoshoot wasn't rushed — it was an experience, a chance to soak in the surroundings and the significance of the day. This is what happens when you choose a venue with real substance. Every frame tells a story.
An evening of intimate celebration
As the sun set, the celebration moved inside to one of the castle's beautifully appointed rooms. Rustic chic decor met castle elegance, with candles creating warm, flickering light throughout the space.
The reception felt like an elevated dinner party — laughter echoing off stone walls, stories shared between courses, and genuine connection without the formality of a traditional wedding reception.
Instead of a traditional cake, the couple surprised everyone with a custom creation featuring two dogs, sweet nods to two special furry loved ones.
No dance floor. No DJ. Just over ten people who traveled across an ocean to celebrate love in one of Ireland's most iconic settings.
That's exactly what destination weddings are made for.