Nicole & Andre

Some elopements just hit different. This one? It was pure magic, full of Irish luck, personal vows, happy tears and a little bit of Taylor Swift sparkle too.

When my friend Nicole (an incredibly talented wedding photographer herself , Piet My Vrou) told me that she and Andre wanted to elope in Ireland, I honestly lost my mind with excitement. The idea had been sparked after we queued for Taylor Swift tickets in Ireland (yes, we got them, VIP, thank you very much!). Somewhere in between the stress of Ticketmaster and fangirl chats, Nicole casually said: “Sharyn, I think Andre and I want to elope in Ireland.” Cue happy dancing and planning!

Intimate Getting Ready Moments

Fast forward to June 2024. We all gathered at a cosy Airbnb in Northern Ireland, where Nicole and Andre got ready with a few close friends. There was laughter, Taylor Swift tunes pounding out, a touch of nerves, and the sweetest energy in the air. Outside? Rain, and lots of it. And I mean, pouring just two days before the elopement. But, the Irish weather had other plans for us that day.

Saying Vows at Dunseverick Castle

As we headed to the breathtaking Dunseverick Castle ruins, something incredible happened, the sun came out. No wind, no rain. Just perfect soft light as Nicole and Andre stood in front of their friends, speaking the most beautiful personal vows. It was raw, emotional, and completely them.

I remember shooting through happy tears, watching a fellow photographer and friend marry her person, in a place that looked straight out of a dream.

Adventure Through the Northern Coast

After their ceremony, we kept the adventure going. We explored the iconic Wishing Arch, where Nicole and Andre laughed and soaked up every moment, followed by windswept moments at White Rocks Beach one of my absolute favourite spots on the Northern Irish coast.

We ended the shoot at the world-famous Giant’s Causeway, with its dramatic basalt columns and wild ocean views. As if on cue, the rain returned about an hour after we got back to the Airbnb. That’s Irish luck for you and it was with us all day long.

A Night to Remember

One of my absolute favourite memories from this day wasn’t even during the shoot. After we wrapped, we all gathered back at the Airbnb where Nicole’s cousin cooked the most incredible home meal. We sat around the table, sharing stories, laughing, and celebrating Nicole and Andre in the most down-to-earth, beautiful way.

That evening reminded me why I love elopements so much it’s not just about epic landscapes (though we had those too!). It’s about connection, intention, and celebrating love in a way that feels deeply personal. And for me? I’ll never forget this one.