Some love stories feel like they were always meant to happen — and Darina and Kevin’s is exactly that kind of story. Between them, they’ve raised five incredible kids together, built a life in Dallas, Texas, and somewhere along the way found their way to this beautiful next chapter. So when it came time to celebrate, there was only one place that felt right: Spring Lake, New Jersey, fondly known as the “Irish Riviera.”
A Meaningful Start in Spring Lake
Darina was born in Ireland, and Kevin — a Jersey guy through and through — has embraced his own Irish heritage with a passion that (by Darina’s own account, laughing) might even outdo hers. So Spring Lake, with its rolling green lawns, ocean views, and deep Irish-American roots, was the perfect backdrop for a couple who wears their heritage proudly.
The morning began at a house in Spring Lake, filled with family, laughter, and all the happy chaos of getting ready together. One of the sweetest moments of the whole day happened here: Darina’s daughter Roisin did her mom’s makeup, then turned right around and did her sister’s too — three generations of love in one room, getting ready for something big. Darina also carried a piece of her own mother with her, wearing her mother’s veil crown tucked into the back of her hair — a quiet, beautiful thread connecting generations on a day already so full of family.
Vows at St. Catharine’s
Kevin walked the short distance down the street to St. Catharine’s Church, where he waited for his bride to arrive. The couple are close friends with the priest, which made the ceremony feel even more personal — less like a formality and more like a celebration among people who truly know and love them. Guests traveled from all over the world to be there, filling the pews for a day that had clearly been years in the making.
Jewel Tones and Bagpipes at Manasquan River Golf Club
From the church, everyone headed to Manasquan River Golf Club in Brielle, where Kevin is a member — making the celebration feel even more like home. The club was transformed with rich jewel-toned florals by Bespoke Floral, setting a warm, romantic tone for the night ahead.
Cocktail hour brought two delightfully unexpected touches: an oyster shucker working the room and live bagpipes filling the air, a perfect nod to the couple’s Irish roots. From there, the celebration only built momentum — Darina and Kevin shared a beautifully choreographed first dance, traditional Irish dancers took the floor for a high-energy performance, and the band New Power Soul kept the entire room dancing well into the night. And in true can’t-make-this-up fashion, a surprise robot showed up and danced with the crowd.
Guests were also treated to a truly special keepsake: live event painter Julia Ranson Mooney captured the celebration on canvas in real time, sketching guests throughout the reception.
Off to Bora Bora
After a day this full of joy, heritage, and family, Darina and Kevin headed off on their honeymoon to Bora Bora — the perfect quiet ending to a big, beautiful celebration.
The Details
- Ceremony: St. Catharine’s Church, Spring Lake, NJ
- Photographer: DeborahannPhotography
- Reception Venue: Manasquan River Golf Club, Brielle, NJ
- Florals: Bespoke Floral
- Hair: Elan Hair Studio
- Dessert: Simona’s Bakery
- Band: New Power Soul
- Videography: Tonemedia
- Planning: Particular Planner
- Live Event Painter: Julia Ranson Mooney
If you’re planning a wedding along the Irish Riviera and want a photographer who loves capturing real love stories — the ones with a little history and a whole lot of heart — I’d love to hear from you.
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