Sunny June elopement for two in Kerry's monastery ruin

As residents of an equally beautiful European country, Kirsten and Alex wanted nothing but serenity, astounding nature, and zero crowds for their big day. Germany has many venues that can give them the wedding that they wished for, but they want something unique away from home for their big day.

Although they were having a wedding abroad, planning their big day had been a breeze. The main reason for the stress-free and quick wedding planning is that they were eloping to Ireland with zero guests.

They chose two special nature spots for their wedding day. First is a lakeside hotel where they got ready for the day. The hotel is surrounded by astounding nature scenes, from the clear lake water to the iconic giant trees planted on huge rocks in the middle of the lake, to the vibrant vegetation everywhere outside the venue.

The hotel was beautiful, but the ceremony spot was even better. It is a monastery ruin that holds centuries of violent history, but the building refused to be brought down by attacks. Until now, centuries after several attempts to destroy it, the monastery still stands, with its vaulted cloisters and historic walls. The arched window frames are still intact, although the building is now unroofed.

Kirsten & Alex’s day started with their first look and a quick photoshoot showcasing the natural beauty of the lakeside hotel that they booked for the wedding preparations. After that, they had a meaningful ceremony inside the monastery ruins, with zero guests, and only their officiant, harpist, and photographer present.

When the exchange of vows was done, Kirsten & Alex walked along the beautiful paths of the venue, with vibrant greens all around. Next to the monastery ruin is an equally historic location - a cemetery that has been in the estate for centuries. Both the monastery and the cemetery form part of a national park in Kerry.

The newlyweds went to the best spots in the monastery and cemetery for the photoshoot. Their last stop was the Irish pub where they both celebrated for as long as they wanted while savoring authentic Irish beer and reminiscing the success of their Irish destination wedding.