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A Visit with Sinéad in Thurles, Tipperary

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I met County Tipperary photographer Sinéad NíRiain last April when she attended my Guerrilla Management Workshop in Ireland. Besides being impressed by the quality of her award-winning photography and the energy she brings to business, I was intrigued by the fact that she lives in a thatched-roof cottage on the same property as her purpose-built studio. I was delighted when she invited Jim and me to visit during our fall trip.


Builders are now in the process of adding an addition to the property, which will blend in nicely with its original style, while providing additional living space and the benefits of a modern-day kitchen.


Sinéad’s studio is located at a discrete distance from the cottage, and it creates a positive impression on clients who travel to it’s rural location on the outskirts of Thurles. The spacious camera room is housed in the right-hand wing of the building.


Sinéad’s business includes both portraits and weddings, so she has designed environments that appeal to these markets. The distinctly feminine environment of her reception area is ideal for making families with children feel at ease.


Her wedding area, which displays both albums and decorative wall panels of her wedding work, is designed to make prospective brides and grooms comfortable while discussing their photography needs and placing their orders.


The spacious camera room has both a high-key end . . .


. . . and a low-key area.


Here’s Sinéad in her office proudly displaying the marketing materials she has received as a member of Sarah Petty’s Joy of Marketing organization that she reports has been helpful in broadening her marketing efforts.


You can learn more about Sinéad’s photography by clicking here.

Sinéad made arrangements for us to stay at the nearby Inch House, a stately home owned by relatives John and Norah Egan. In 1985 the Egan family took over the 1720 property in a state of dereliction and began the major restoration work that has resulted in the handsome, comfortably furnished period house which I doubt can be topped for its relaxed atmosphere and outstanding hospitality.


Sinéad took this shot of Jim and me posing as “lord and lady of the manor” on the esquisitely landscaped grounds of Inch House.


Our elegantly furnished bedroom was a special treat . . .


. . . and the breakfasts were divine. Because the Egans also offer full restaurant services to non-residents by reservation, we also enjoyed two outstanding evening meals by candlelight in the spectacular dining room.


Here’s a view of the pastures and farmland that surrounds Inch House . . .


. . . and a few of the 250 acres of surrounding land that the Egans farm.


One final memory that we will take away from our time at Inch House is of “Tiny,” the miniature Jack Russell terrier, who just about everyone in the Egan family admits is “The Boss.” Thanks to Tiny and all of the Egans for an unforgettable stay!