Katie & Garrett’s Dream Elopement:
From Sheen Falls to Helen’s Bar By Sarah Kate Photography
Katie and Garrett’s elopement in Kenmare was a celebration full of heart and heritage. As a couple from Nebraska with Katie’s great-grandmother hailing from the region, their wedding was a beautiful homecoming of sorts. Their intimate ceremony at Sheen Falls Lodge was followed by a unique reception at Helen’s Bar in Kilmakilloge. To make things easy for their small group of guests, they hired Harrington’s Buses to shuttle everyone from Sheen Falls to Helen’s, but I have to say, if you’re planning an earlier wedding (think 12pm), a Kenmare Boat Tour down the coastline is an incredible alternative—offering stunning views of the Beara Peninsula and making the transition between venues an unforgettable part of the day.
Their ceremony at Sheen Falls was as picturesque as it gets, with the sound of the waterfalls creating a serene atmosphere. After the vows, the journey to Helen’s Bar added a relaxed, rustic element to the day, where fresh mussels, pints of Guinness, and stunning views of the bay made for the perfect, cozy celebration.
Photographer’s Tips for an Unforgettable Irish Elopement:
Make Time for Epic Photos: Make sure to stop at Uragh Stone Circle for some truly breathtaking couple portraits. Another spot to consider is Healy Pass or Caha Pass, which offers sweeping views of the Beara Peninsula. Both locations are perfect for capturing that wild, romantic essence of Ireland.
- Plan for Golden Hour: The hour before sunset is the ideal time for those glowing, romantic photos. If you can time your couple portraits to happen during this magical hour, the light will be soft and warm—just like it was for Katie and Garrett at Uragh Stone Circle.
- Consider a Boat Tour: If your ceremony is earlier in the day, think about chartering a boat from Kenmare to your reception venue. Not only does it offer incredible views, but it’s also a fun, unique way to travel and creates some amazing photo opportunities on the water.
- Blend Luxury with Local Charm: Katie and Garrett’s day was the perfect mix of high-end luxury at Sheen Falls and the down-to-earth atmosphere at Helen’s Bar. It’s a great idea to balance the day with different styles to give your elopement both elegance and local flavor.
- Embrace the Weather: In Ireland, the weather can change quickly, but that’s part of the magic. Cloudy skies bring out the lush green of the landscape and can add depth to your photos. Bring along an umbrella and enjoy whatever the day brings—it’s all part of the experience!
