Roe Valley Resort Wedding Limavady
Welcome to my blog of Gemma & Chris’ wedding from Faughanvale and Limavady in Northern Ireland.
Wedding at Roe Valley Resort
From the very first time I met these two, I knew that I was in for a fun day. We met up for a chat on zoom way back when, when they were planning their Limavady wedding. I think Gemma and Chris knew they were choosing me from their research but just wanted to be sure plus I had done a gorgeous wedding (Eimear & Ethan) for a couple of their friends a few years ago.
We broke the ice with an engagement shoot when these two took me on a long hike in the freezing cold. Genuinely, I think my hands are still pink from the cold. It was fun and I always say it’s great homework for the big day.
On to the wedding day. My day began at one of my favourite venues, the Roe Valley Resort in Limavady. Chris and his groomsmen got ready there and we had lot’s of fun. We began the shoot commiserating about the Ireland football result the night before. Ireland got knocked out on penalties in the World Cup qualifiers. Thanks Czechia!
After some really nice shots in the room, we headed outside for a few shots outside on the grounds of Roe Valley Resort. From my point of view, this is a great way to start your wedding photography. It eases the groomsmen into the photos and it’s not too long. Just half an hour. Afterwards, they are a bonus and lots of eyes will be on them.
Wedding Photography in Northern Ireland
So… On to Gemma in Faughanvale. Gemma’s family home was so much fun! Every bride’s home is different, some are quiet and some are rowdy. Gemma’s was so relaxed. Always the best vibe for the wedding morning.
Gemma’s family and bridal party were in great spirit and it was a pleasure to be there doing the photography.
Gemma’s home was so close to their church, the Star of the Sea in Faughanvale, that I could have walked to the wedding. I got there in good time to get some nice shots before the ceremony and be well prepared for the bride’s arrival.
Monsignor Dolan did the wedding and was brilliant throughout. Some priests, ministers or celebrants can be difficult but I think if you’re always respectful, you’ll have no bother. I introduced myself at the beginning and promised I would not be doing any cartwheels or be a distraction. He was happy with that.
Wedding at Star of the Sea in Faughanvale
After the signing register came the walk back up the aisle. The aisle in Star of the Sea is short and ends at a baptismal font with steps down — easy to miss if you're not paying attention, especially when you're walking backwards photographing the couple to applause.
I’ve shot there loads of times without incident, but just before Gemma & Chris started walking, I whispered to Ed (who was on video), “Don’t forget the steps. I don’t want you going down a clatter.”
Of course, as we walked backwards, I nearly forgot myself and almost went flying. Thankfully I didn’t — but it’s the closest I’ve ever come to having a very unfortunate viral moment. Ed thought I was messing around.
After the handshakes and when we were doing the gorgeous pictures of Gemma inside the church, I called over to the couple, “Did you see me almost go flying?” Chris and Gemma nodded and thought I was a goner!
I really love doing pictures inside the church after the ceremony. Most of the time, the church is stunning and who knows if it ever get’s refurbished. It’s nice to look back on these in years to come.
Roe Valley Resort Wedding Photography
We headed over to Limavady to the Roe Valley Resort and after settling in we headed out for the bridal party shoot. Gemma & Chris’ bridal party made this really easy for me. They were so much fun and kept the craic going for the couple. After this, we finished the shoot with some nice shots of the couple.
The speeches were done after the dinner. I think this is great. The guests get served quicker and can enjoy the speeches with a full stomach. Gemma & Chris’ speeches were so much craic. Sometimes it’s odd looking at the speeches photos without the audio but as you can see, there were so many laughs and reactions. Some of the best I’ve ever heard.
Limavady Wedding Photography
After the speeches, I always think it’s a good window to take more candids of the guests. I think I did ten laps of the Roe Valley. If I didn’t get a picture of a particular guest, it’s because they were hiding. Although, I think I got everyone.
My coverage finished after the dancing. Again, I’ve included some pictures. They were so much fun, just like the rest of the day.
Thanks Gemma & Chris for having me as your wedding photographer. I loved every second of your day.
Loved Gemma & Chris’ wedding story at the Roe Valley Resort?
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Fill out some information about your big day and any ideas you have and I will be in touch shortly with news on my availability and my full pricing. I can't wait to hear from you!
Loved Gemma & Chris’ wedding story at the Roe Valley Resort?
Let’s Work Together.
Fill out some information about your big day and any ideas you have and I will be in touch shortly with news on my availability and my full pricing. I can't wait to hear from you!
