Some stories start with a wedding inquiry.

This one started with an Instagram DM and a “say less.”

Alexa and Jimmy Lewis are two Atlanta lawyers who spend their days in courtrooms and their weekends across the world. When they’re not working, they’re chasing flight deals—and yes, their cat Addy tags along (she even has her own Instagram, @addytheadventurecat).

Last year, I photographed them on their land outside Atlanta with their three dogs and Addy. Fast forward a few months, Alexa commented on one of my wedding day stories saying she wished she could bring me to Ireland for their 10-year vow renewal. I joked, “Say less. I’ll hop on a plane.”

By that night, my ticket was booked. (Obviously.)

Planning an Ireland Vow Renewal: What I Learned Firsthand

If you’re dreaming of celebrating your anniversary or vows abroad, here’s the first thing you should know: it doesn’t have to be complicated. (Complicated is cancelled, actually.)

Most couples think destination sessions take months of prep and logistics—but often, the hardest part is just saying yes. Alexa reached out three weeks before their trip, and with a few quick calls and some research, we made it happen.

Here’s what helped make the experience smooth:

• Book your flights into Shannon or Dublin Airport. Shannon is perfect for west coast locations like County Clare, Galway, and Doolin.
  
• Give yourself extra days to scout and explore. Ireland’s weather can change fast, so padding your schedule means less stress and more flexibility. You can read all about my thoughts about wedding timelines here (and yes, this philosophy remains the same for vow renewals.)
  
• Think about your backdrop first, not the town name. Castles, cliffs, coastlines—decide on the vibe before the venue.

Why We Chose Dromoland Castle and Kilkee Cliffs

Alexa and Jimmy spent the week traveling around Ireland, but we met up at Dromoland Castle for their vow renewal. It’s one of the dreamiest (and most accessible) castle properties in County Clare—complete with ivy-covered walls, golf carts, and a quiet luxury feel that doesn’t feel overly touristy.

From there, I wanted to capture something wilder, more cinematic. Everyone knows the Cliffs of Moher, but here’s the insider truth: they’re packed with tourists and covered in safety rails. Beautiful, yes—but not ideal for photos that feel intimate and unposed.

Just 45 minutes away, the Kilkee Cliffs offer the same sweeping coastal views without the crowds. They’re rugged, raw, and completely untouched. It’s one of those places that feels like a secret, even though it’s hiding in plain sight.

If you’re planning your own Ireland vow renewal, that’s one of my biggest pieces of advice:
→ Don’t default to the most famous spots. Ask your photographer for local alternatives that keep the same atmosphere but with fewer people.

Weather, Wardrobes, and the Irish Way

The morning of their vow renewal, the sky couldn’t decide what it wanted to do. One minute: sunshine. The next: mist. Then rain. Then sun again.

Honestly? That’s Ireland for you.

Alexa wore a new gown she’d modeled in New York, paired with her original wedding veil and jewelry. It was a perfect mix of nostalgia and new beginnings. We wandered the castle grounds, ducking under trees between rain spells, with Patrick (my husband + assistant) driving us around in a golf cart like some Irish chauffeur.

By the time we were set to head to the cliffs, the rain came back with a vengeance. Alexa swapped into hiking clothes instead of her second dress, and we rolled with it.

It wasn’t the dramatic, windswept look I’d imagined—but it was real. And that’s the kind of moment you can’t plan: two people who’ve built a life together, laughing in the drizzle, completely unbothered by perfection.

4 Tips for a Smooth Ireland Vow Renewal Photoshoot

If you’re dreaming up your own trip, here are a few lessons from experience:

1. Build in Buffer Time

Don’t try to cram your session between flights or dinners. Ireland’s weather changes fast, and the best lighting usually sneaks up when you least expect it.

2. Rent a Car (and Be Ready to Drive on the Left)

If you’re shooting outside the main cities, public transport won’t get you to the hidden gems. Driving gives you flexibility—and the freedom to chase light and rainbows.

3. Pack for the Weather, Not the Pinterest Board

A dress looks stunning in the mist, but so does a cozy sweater and boots. Bring options and layers.

4. Hire a Photographer Who Knows How to Pivot

You want someone comfortable with unpredictable conditions, flexible schedules, and wind-whipped hair. The magic is in the adaptability. Want to learn more about me? Head to my about page here!

Why Ireland Is Perfect for a Vow Renewal

There’s something about Ireland that feels tailor-made for recommitting to your person.

• The landscapes feel alive—not staged, not overly curated.
• The slower pace gives you space to actually breathe together.
• Every photo looks like it belongs in a storybook.
  

And for couples who’ve already done the big wedding thing, a destination vow renewal is the best mix of adventure and intimacy. You can skip the stress, bring just your favorite people (or pets—looking at you, Addie), and focus on what matters most: the two of you.

The Story That Started It All

When Alexa first booked me, it was for holiday photos with their pets. I had no idea it would lead to photographing their 10-year vow renewal across the ocean.

And that’s what I love most about this job—watching couples grow, evolve, and celebrate new chapters together.

So if you’ve been toying with the idea of doing something big (or spontaneous), let this be your sign. 

Book the flight. 

Bring the dress. 

Embrace the weather. 

You never know where one conversation could take you—or how many passport stamps might come next.

Want to save this blog to your Pinterest board? Hover over your favorite photo and press, ‘save’!

Thinking About Planning Your Own Ireland Vow Renewal?

Whether you’re envisioning castle vows, cliffside photos, or cozy pub portraits, I’d love to help you plan a day that feels like you.
Start here! Inquire about Destination Vow Renewals