Inchydoney Lodge & Spa Wedding | Rainy Day West Cork Wedding

If you’re dreaming of an Inchydoney Lodge wedding, but worried about Ireland’s famously unpredictable weather — don’t be. Orlaith and Aidan’s April 2025 celebration took place on the wettest day of the year, and it was still one of the most joy-filled, heartwarming weddings I’ve ever photographed. Even without a moment outdoors, the day was unforgettable from start to finish.

Inchydoney lodge and spa humanist wedding candle lighting ceremony

Because this wasn’t just a little Irish drizzle. It was the wettest day of the year. Horizontal wind. Constant rain. Not one dry second — no outdoor portraits, not even a dash to the steps. And yet, it turned out to be one of the most joyful, heart-filled weddings I’ve ever had the honour of capturing.

Inchydoney lodge bride on a rainy day window light portrait

Inchdoney lodge and spa rainy wedding day

🏨 Why Inchydoney Lodge Wedding Days Work in Any Weather

Inchydoney Lodge is always a stunning choice for a West Cork wedding, but it truly proved its worth on a day like this. With 230 guests, the venue still felt spacious and welcoming. The banquet hall became everything — ceremony, celebration, shelter, and dance floor.

Their 1pm humanist ceremony, led by Brian Twomey, took place right there in the hotel, with heartfelt vows and tears all around. The couple got ready just next door at the Inchydoney Beach House, which made everything wonderfully seamless.

Inchydoney lodge wedding father of bride shakes hand of groom at alter

Having the full day onsite — ceremony, reception, accommodation, and dinner at 5pm — made things easy for everyone, especially when the elements had other ideas!

❤️ A Little Personal Backstory…

Just a week before this wedding, I had a nasty fall and fractured my 10th rib and three vertebrae. I was devastated — not just physically, but emotionally, because I always give my couples everything I have.

I contacted Orlaith and Aidan to let them know what had happened, and offered them the option to find another photographer if needed. But they chose to stick with me — which meant the world.

To make sure they still got the very best service, I called on our amazing Irish wedding community. Sarah Kate Murphy came to assist as my second shooter (and was an absolute star), and Adam from West Cork Weddings not only filmed the day beautifully but kept checking in on me to make sure I was holding up. I couldn’t have done it without them, and I’ll never forget their kindness.

✨ Even Indoors, Every Detail Shone

Despite the wild weather, every inch of this day was beautiful. The vibe, the styling, the people — the love.

black and white photo of bridesmaids on a bed at Inchydoney lodge

Here are some of the incredible suppliers who helped bring the day to life:

👰 Dress: The White Ivy, Kenmare
💐 Florals: Ruth Fortune, Glandore
💇 Hair: Kate O’Brien, A Cut Above, Clonakilty
💄 Makeup: Rebecca O’Donovan, Cork
💍 Jewellery & Wedding Rings: Diana O’Mahony, Cork
🎷 Band: Sax in the City
🎂 Cake: Groom’s Aunt, Eily White
🎥 Videographer: Adam Flemming, West Cork Weddings

From the elegant florals to the wonderful ceremony and busy drinks reception, the storm outside was forgotten.

ruth fortune wedding flowers at Inchydoney lodge and spa

☔ Rainy Day Advice for Your Inchydoney Lodge Wedding

Orlaith and Aidan’s day reminded me that a rainy wedding can be magical, if you’re prepared and have the right people behind you. Here’s what worked so well:

Venue flexibility: Inchydoney handled everything in one place — no need to dash between locations in the rain.
All-weather mindset: The couple and their guests fully embraced the day. Nobody let the weather dampen their spirits.
Trust your team: Having photographers, videographers, and a venue you trust is key. We adapted quickly, made new plans, and still captured beautiful, meaningful images.

Groom with tiny umbrella at Inchydoney lodge

🌅 A Little Wedding Gift for the Couple

Because we didn’t get a moment outside, I’ve promised Orlaith and Aidan a complimentary sunset session later this year — somewhere dry and golden. It’s the least I can do for a couple who trusted me so deeply, even in such unusual circumstances.

west cork wedding Inchydoney Lodge beach

💡 Planning Your West Cork Wedding?

Whether it’s sunshine or storm clouds, Inchydoney Lodge & Spa is a magical place to celebrate. It’s large enough for a big guest list, intimate enough to feel special, and completely ready for Ireland’s unpredictable weather.

If you’re dreaming of your own celebration — whatever the skies may bring — I’d love to be part of your story.