Wedding of the Week: Dreamy destination do for well-travelled Kerry couple

Aisling Brennan and Padraig O'Connor, both from Killarney, Co Kerry, who were married at the Palacio Monte Miramar, Malaga, Spain

Sat, 11 Apr, 2026 - 01:00

Eve Kelliher

Kerry couple Aisling Brennan and Padraig O’Connor planned a wedding that they describe as “a true reflection of our journey together”.

Both from Killarney and now living and working in Dublin, that voyage began in 2013 when Aisling returned to their hometown for Christmas during her Erasmus year in Spain.

Aisling Brennan and Padraig O’Connor. Pictures: Padraig Healy Photography

Over the years, life whisked them from Kerry to Dublin, and across the Atlantic to San Diego, and travel and the coast have always been a big part of their story. Both are drawn to the ocean, particularly after their time in California, so Padraig chose a coastal setting for the proposal, in Tulum, Mexico, in June 2023. “It was relaxed, beautiful, and very much our style,” says Aisling.

Aisling Brennan. Pictures: Padraig Healy Photography

Over two years later, they set off from the Lakes of Killarney to the sun-soaked gardens of southern Spain to exchange vows at the Palacio Monte Miramar, a venue rich in character and also famously used as a filming location for The Crown. “With guests travelling from Ireland, the United States, the Cayman Islands, and Australia, accessibility was key, making Málaga the perfect choice,” adds the bride.

The couple wanted a celebration “rooted in Kerry, shaped by travel, and centred around love, connection, and the people who matter most”, says Aisling. “It was everything we had hoped for — timeless, full of love, and shared with all the people who mean the most to us, in a place that felt completely us.

“Surrounded by gardens, palm-lined grounds and golden Mediterranean light, the setting created the perfect backdrop for a day that felt cinematic in every sense — elegant, atmospheric, and full of feeling.”

After getting ready that morning at the Gran Hotel Miramar with her mum and bridesmaids, Aisling arrived at the venue in a white Mustang, which also added a movie-worthy edge. “With the help of our planner Celia from 1180 Studio, fverything came together seamlessly. The overall feel of the day was simple but striking — clean and modern with a hint of vintage glamour, all while staying relaxed and natural,” she adds. “Nothing felt overdone.”

Aisling Brennan and Padraig O’Connor with their wedding party. Pictures: Padraig Healy Photography

Celebrant Tara O’Connor performed the ceremony, and the fact that she is also Padraig’s cousin made it all the more meaningful, bringing a personal and intimate tone to the occasion, say the couple. Their goddaughter, Maisie Cahill, was the flower girl, with nephew Charlie Cahill as pageboy. Rachel Brennan was the maid of honour, and Andrew O’Sullivan was the best man.

Padraig O’Connor with his best man and groomsmen. Pictures: Padraig Healy Photography

Aisling chose a sleek, sculptural gown by Australian designer Kyha. Her veil, created by Anna O, added softness and movement, while her hair was styled by Joanne O’Dowd, who travelled from Killarney for the occasion.

Padraig wore a white and black tuxedo from Louis Copeland, bringing a modern take to a classic look.

Padraig O’Connor. Pictures: Padraig Healy Photography

From the ceremony under open skies to a long-table dinner that stretched into the evening, the celebration unfolded with an easy rhythm.

Capturing on camera it all was Kerry photographer Paudie Healy (Padraighealy.com, @Healy_Photo), alongside videographer Carlos Felix and content creator Katie Marie Phonography, who ensured every moment was preserved from every angle.

“Paudie completely understood what we wanted,” says Aisling. “He just got the feel of the day — nothing forced, just natural moments and beautiful light. His imagery reflects the same tone as the wedding itself: cinematic, stylish, and grounded in real emotion.”