Culloden Estate
Lucy & Chris’ Wedding at The Culloden Hotel, Northern Ireland
Oh my goodness — what a day! From the moment I arrived at Lucy’s family home, I just knew it was going to be something special. The morning was full of laughter, excitement, and that lovely calm-before-the-storm feeling. After capturing some prep shots with Lucy and her bridesmaids, I headed straight up to the Culloden Hotel to meet the boys.
Chris turned up in the coolest vintage car — no idea what model it was, but I absolutely loved it. He and the groomsmen were in great spirits, full of energy and ideas. Chat had some hilarious photo suggestions, and since everyone was up for a bit of fun, we went for it — and honestly, they turned out brilliantly.
The ceremony was set up outside on the terrace overlooking the gardens, and it was looking perfect… right up until about three minutes before Lucy arrived, when the heavens absolutely opened. Classic Northern Ireland! But nobody let it spoil the mood — everyone just grabbed umbrellas and dashed into the atrium. To be fair, the team at the Culloden were unreal — they had the entire setup moved inside in about ten minutes, and it all looked incredible.
Lucy made her entrance down that iconic Culloden staircase, and honestly, it couldn’t have been more perfect. It kind of made the ceremony — elegant, dramatic, and totally memorable.
Afterwards, we moved into the Holywood Suite for the reception. It was such a great setup — warm, lively, and full of laughter. And I’ve got to give a big shout-out to Skinners Bakery in Holywood — their tray bakes were something else. Easily some of the best I’ve ever seen at a wedding!
The rest of the day was all about keeping things relaxed and fun — lots of natural, candid moments with family and friends, a few quick bridal portraits between rain showers, and plenty of laughter. Even when we did sneak out for photos, the guests barely noticed Lucy and Chris were gone.
Then, just as dinner and speeches were underway, I looked out the window — and there it was: golden hour. The Culloden is amazing for it — the light just peeks through the trees and down into the gardens, and within a minute you’re in the perfect spot for those soft, glowing, romantic shots. Honestly, that’s my favourite time of the day to photograph — the light, the vibe, the quiet moment between the madness.
We finished the night with a few classic, purposely formal portraits indoors before heading straight into the first dance. What a day, what a night, what a wedding. Lucy and Chris — you two absolutely smashed it.
Chris & Lucy, thank you so much for letting me capture your day. It was such a joy from start to finish.
Shout out to the team !
Film: https://www.facebook.com/MinfordMedia/
Dress: @foreverbridalbelfast
Make up: https://www.facebook.com/makeupbynmkelly/
Hair: https://www.facebook.com/hairbyhelen29/
Flowers: https://www.facebook.com/hannahsflorist
Cake: https://www.facebook.com/Skinnersbakery/?locale=en_GB
Band: https://www.facebook.com/Greenmeansgobelfast/?locale=en_GB