Cliffs of Moher, Ireland elopement
Disclaimer – This website contains affiliate links. We may earn a very small commission if you make a purchase using links on this site, at no extra cost to you. That’s how we can afford to keep this awesome site running!
Cali and Sam flew to Ireland from Toronto to say their vows among the historical ruins of Corcomroe Abbey in County Clare. They then had an intimate handfasting ceremony at sunset on the Cliffs of Moher. A real life fairy tale elopement!
The Cliffs of Moher are one of Ireland’s most iconic and breathtaking natural landmarks. Located on the west coast of Ireland in County Clare, they stretch for about 14 kilometers (9 miles) along the Atlantic Ocean and reach heights of up to 214 meters (702 feet) at their highest point.
how was The location chosen?
From Aideen, the photographer: For many visitors to Ireland, the Cliffs of Moher are one of the most anticipated outdoor destinations. Cali and Sam felt the same way! They also wanted to have photos taken at some old Irish ruins. I chose Corcomroe Abbey for our first location before going to the cliffs for sunset. The cliffs can be very exposed to the elements. The Abbey ruins provided a perfect, sheltered, intimate fairytale location for them to say their vows.
do you need special permits?
No, not that I’m aware of at the moment! However, things change, and both locations may not remain easy to access in future. The cliffs of Moher are one of Ireland’s most popular tourist attractions. Due to this popularity and parking restrictions, accessing the cliffs for epic photos is becoming increasingly difficult. Planning in advance and having a local photographer or planner who knows where and when to go will ensure everything goes smoothly and stress-free.
can you have a legal ceremony here or just symbolic?
You can legally marry outdoors in Ireland if you have a non-religious ceremony however, the ceremony must take place at a recognized landmark! At the Cliffs of Moher, this is O’Briens Tower at Hags Head. It is a beautiful location, but it’s not always accessible. Most of my couples choose to do the legal part in their home country and instead plan a symbolic ceremony in Ireland.
what about leave no trace in this area?
Plan ahead and prepare appropriately. Be considerate of other tourists, local farmers, and landowners.
Do not trespass on private land or property without permission.
Respect the local Farm Animals and Wildlife.
Leave what you find and dispose of Waste Properly.
what are your top tips for eloping in this area and what is the best time of year to visit?
Be prepared for your plans to change on the day if necessary. The weather can be impossible to predict in Ireland, and often, there is not much to see at the cliffs. Any weather warnings will also make visiting the cliffs unsafe, so it is a good idea to have a plan B in place.
January & February are the only months you should avoid. The cliffs are very exposed, so while the temperatures are generally mild throughout the year, high winds can increase the wind chill and make winter elopements challenging. It might also be wise to avoid peak tourist season, the summer months, and public/national holidays!
how did the couple meet?
From Cali, the bride: Sam and I met in the United States going to university in Idaho. We met through mutual friends and when he walked into my apartment one day, I knew we were meant to be.
Why did you decide to elope and why this location in particular?
From Cali, the bride: We decided to elope because a small intimate wedding appealed to us and our personalities more than a large social one. We wanted to celebrate our love and our union together and an elopement captured that perfectly.
We chose Ireland because of the stunning scenery and the heritage we both have in that area. Once we saw that beautiful cliffs and castles we both knew it was the perfect place for us. We got not only the most gorgeous pictures out of it, but the best memories as well.
the vendors:
Photography: Aideen Anna Photography
