Getting Married Over 50? Why Intimate Weddings Are More Beautiful Than Ever
For Couples in Their 50s, 60s and Beyond – Planning a Wedding That Reflects You, Not Tradition
You’re not starting a fairy tale. You’re building on a life already rich with experience, love, maybe children, maybe heartache, maybe decades of memories. If you're getting married over 50, your wedding should reflect all of that — and more.
At this stage of life, it’s not about following rules. It’s about creating something meaningful, personal, and intimate. And as a wedding photographer who’s worked with many mature couples in Dublin, I can confidently say: those weddings are some of the most beautiful I’ve ever witnessed.
Why Mature Couples Are Choosing Intimate Weddings
Whether it’s your second marriage, a vow renewal, or simply finding love later in life, more and more couples over 50 are choosing small, heartfelt weddings over big, elaborate affairs. Here’s why:
You value connection over spectacle. You want time with the people who matter, not a performance for a crowd.
You know what you want. No pressure, no drama, just a day that feels true to you.
You want it to be easy, beautiful, and stress-free. That doesn’t mean less special – it often means more.
Some of the most moving weddings I’ve photographed have been tiny – just 10 or 20 people in a beautiful space like the Merrion Hotel or Clonabreany House. And yet, the emotion in the room could fill a cathedral.
Planning a Wedding Later in Life: What Matters Most
Here are some thoughts for couples over 50 planning a wedding in Dublin or anywhere in Ireland:
1. Make it feel like you.
This isn’t about recreating a Pinterest board. It’s about what makes you both feel joy. It could be an afternoon garden ceremony, a long dinner in a private room, or a ceremony in your home with just your children present.
2. Blend families with intention.
Weddings at this stage are often not just about two people – but two families. That might mean adult children, stepchildren, or grandchildren. Including them (or honouring them quietly) in the day can be deeply meaningful.
3. Don’t feel pressure to do it “properly.”
You don’t have to have a cake. Or a white dress. Or a first dance. This is your second act. Make it yours.
4. Work with vendors who get it.
Look for a photographer who understands the rhythm of a smaller, slower-paced day. Someone who doesn’t just shoot the “standard” wedding but knows how to capture meaningful, quiet moments with depth and sensitivity.
Photography That Reflects Real Life and Real Love
I’ve photographed dozens of weddings for couples in their 50s, 60s, and even 70s. I’ve seen second marriages, first marriages later in life, vow renewals, and beautiful civil ceremonies that felt every bit as joyful as any cathedral bash.
The best photos? They come from truth. A soft glance across the table. A daughter fixing her mum’s hair. A grandchild falling asleep during the toasts.
Venues That Work Beautifully for Intimate Weddings in Dublin
Some of my favourite spots for smaller weddings include:
The Merrion Hotel – Timeless elegance, perfect for small groups and stunning portraits.
Marco Pierre White Courtyard – Beautiful food, private spaces, warm lighting.
Clonabreany House – Countryside calm with all the luxury touches.
For a list of osme of my favorite Dublin venues, check out this articleI wrote
Over 50 and Getting Married? Let’s Make It Unforgettable
If you're planning a wedding that feels more like a dinner party than a performance... if you're looking for a photographer who gets that real emotion matters more than staged perfection... and if you want a gallery of images that feel personal, powerful, and timeless — I’d love to talk.
Get in touch. I’ll bring the camera. You bring your story.
FAQ: Getting Married Over 50 in Ireland
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Yes. More couples than ever are getting married in their 50s and 60s. Many people are finding love again later in life or choosing to marry after years together. Smaller weddings feel personal relaxed and meaningful which suits this stage of life beautifully.
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Absolutely. There are no rules saying a wedding has to be big. Many second marriages are intimate celebrations with just close family and a lovely meal afterwards. What matters is that the day feels right for you both.
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You can wear whatever makes you feel amazing. Some brides choose elegant dresses in soft colours while others love the classic white gown. Comfort confidence and personal style are what matter most.
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There are many beautiful ways to involve family such as inviting them to do a reading walk you up the aisle sign the register or make a toast. You can include them in photos or have a private moment together before the ceremony.
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Only if you want them. Many mature couples skip the traditional timeline and instead enjoy long relaxed conversations and time with the people they love. There is no pressure to follow tradition.
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They are calm emotional and full of real connection. You know what truly matters and the focus is on love and shared history not on putting on a show. The photos are often more sentimental and storytelling.
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Popular choices include luxury hotels with private spaces and restaurants with warm lighting. The Merrion Hotel Marco Pierre White Courtyard and Clonabreany House work beautifully for intimate celebrations and photographs.
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Yes. Many photographers including myself offer flexible coverage for shorter relaxed days. You can choose a few hours of photography to capture the ceremony portraits family moments and the start of your celebration.