A Runaway Elopement Shoot Amongst Castle Ruins in Ireland

Ireland Castle Ruins Inspiration

It’s a traditional thought that little girls dream of growing up and getting married in a castle. Perhaps a bit archaic for some, but we get the appeal…there’s a certain magical aspect that you can’t deny! So, what happens when that little girl grows up with a love for travel, a bohemian spirit, and streak of spontaneity? We think Elise at Brannan Events & Design found the answer: a runaway elopement to Ireland amongst the ruins of a 16th century castle. Simply dreamy, right?! Elise set her sights on Galway and began putting together the pieces of her inspiration:

When I was dreaming up what sort of wedding inspiration I wanted to create in Ireland, I imagined a rad couple, ready to travel the globe and elope among castle ruins! I wanted it to feel airy and romantic, for the free-spirited. We used a more pastel palette (to pop against all the lush greenery) including mauve, rose, dusty blue, and pops of mustard. Flowing florals and iridescent accents kept the design feeling fresh. My goal with this shoot was to inspire couples to dream big and consider eloping abroad!

To bring the vision to life, Elise turned to Instagram to seek out the perfect photographer. She found the talented Claire Brown, of Studio Brown, then came across the ruins of Menlo Castle in Galway. Claire helped assemble the rest of the team and the day was underway!

Ready to see? Away we go to Ireland!

pink wedding invtation

The dreamy invitation suite by Kelsey Malie Calligraphy brings even more romance to the castle ruins setting!

The Ceremony

Ireland Castle Ruins Inspiration

 The ceremony backdrop was the castle wall with a view of the River Corrib, which runs adjacent to the ruins. We love how the floral installation blends so perfectly with the ivy growing on the castle!

Ireland Castle Ruins Inspiration

LOVING her loose waves and princess-like braided crown by Bridal Hair by Marie! It’s slightly Renaissance and totally regal.

The Dress

Green Wedding Shoes x Lovers Society Dress

The bride wore our very own Lovers Society x Green Wedding Shoes Riley gown (schedule an appt to try it on for yourself). We love the full lace sleeves and hip-hugging silhouette, but that open back is to die for!

Ireland Castle Ruins Inspiration

antique rose bouquet

Such a sweet arrangement by Anthesis Floral! The dusty roses and barely opened blooms bring a fresh, foraged feel to the bunch.

The Reception + Sweetheart Table

Ireland Castle Ruins Inspiration

The team assembled the reception area in what used to be horse stables. So cool!

Ireland Castle Ruins Inspiration

No runaway elopement is complete without a romantic sweetheart table! We love the idea of a simple celebration on historic grounds.

Ireland Castle Ruins Inspiration

Amongst the Castle Ruins

Ireland Castle Ruins Inspiration

Such a magical setting with the ivy over the walls!

Ireland Castle Ruins Inspiration

lace sleeve dress

Ireland Castle Ruins Inspiration

Love this shot of the newlyweds exploring. So lush!

Green Wedding Shoes x Lovers Society Dress

The bride went full boho with a fun headpiece by Bridal Turban!

Ireland Castle Ruins Inspiration

LOVE this elopement idea. What do you think — would you re-think a castle wedding to elope amongst the ruins?

Thanks to Elise and the whole team for sharing your creative vision with us! Do let us know your thoughts when you try on our collection!

photography: Studio Brown // venue name: Menlo Castle, Menlo, Galway, Ireland // event design: Brannan Events & Design // planning: Brannan Events & Design // florals: Anthesis Floral // wedding dress: Lovers Society x Green Wedding Shoes // wedding dress boutique: Lovely Bride SF // hairpiece: Bridal Turban // hair stylist: Bridal Hair by Marie // makeup artist: Make Up by Yvonne // paper goods: Kelsey Malie Calligraphy // calligraphy: Kelsey Malie Calligraphy // tabletop rentals: Anthropologie // linen rentals: La Tavola Fine Linen

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