Bellingham Castle Wedding - Elegant Castle Weddings in Ireland

Keith Sullivan
Sep 23
4 min read

Updated: 13 hours ago

A couple on their wedding day on the steps outside Bellingham Castle

Molly & Joey’s Trinity College and Bellingham Castle Wedding

Molly and Joey’s day began in the beautiful Shelbourne Hotel, one of Dublin’s most iconic and elegant wedding morning venues. Molly and her sister — who had flown in from Ibiza — got ready in the Shelbourne’s spa and salon, surrounded by calm laughter, soft music, and the glow of natural light pouring through the tall Georgian windows. It was one of those mornings that just felt right — relaxed, full of excitement, and perfectly Dublin.

Downstairs, Joey was surrounded by his childhood friends and his groomswoman, Shona. They shared coffees, laughter, and a few quiet moments before the day truly began.(Shona later booked me to photograph her own wedding — always such a great compliment when someone who’s part of a wedding day asks me to capture theirs.)

Pre-Ceremony Pints in the City

Before the ceremony, Joey and the wedding party made their way into Dublin City Centre, stopping at the much-loved John Hughes Pub for a pint and a bit of craic. It’s one of those Dublin traditions I love capturing — the calm before the storm, full of laughter, nerves, and good stories.

The streets were alive with that unmistakable Dublin pulse, and it was a brilliant way to start what would become an unforgettable day.

The Ceremony at Trinity College Chapel

The ceremony took place inside the breathtaking Trinity College Chapel, one of Dublin’s most historic and beautiful wedding settings.With both a Catholic and a Protestant priest officiating, the service felt deeply personal — a true reflection of two people and two families coming together.

Molly’s parents had flown in from New York, joined by friends from across Ireland and beyond. The emotion in that chapel was incredible to witness, and to photograph.

Bride and groom kiss in a dip as guests cheer in trinity church with stained glass windows and ornate wooden panels. Festive and joyful atmosphere.

Bride in white dress pulls groom jumping in air at trinity collage church surrounded by cheering guests. Stone arches in background, creating a joyful wedding scene.

Dublin City Portraits

After the ceremony, we took a short walk through the streets of Dublin for a relaxed city centre portrait session.

We paused for a few photographs around the cobblestone streets, the Georgian facades, and, of course, stopped back into John Hughes Pub, this time with Molly in her wedding dress.

It was easy, fun, and filled with moments of laughter and passing congratulations from strangers — Dublin at its best.

The Vintage Car Story

Their getaway car wasn’t just any vintage — it was a classic green Morris Minor, lovingly kept by one of Joey’s oldest friends.That same friend was driven to the hospital in that very car on the day he was born, and now, years later, he was behind the wheel again — this time driving Molly and Joey toward their new chapter together.

We stopped briefly at the Guinness Gate for portraits — a nod to Dublin’s heritage — before heading south to Bellingham Castle. The Morris Minor, with its Irish plate 418 CZE, glimmered under the soft Dublin light as we waved farewell to the city.

Bride and groom kiss in front of a vintage car with "Guinness" sign. She sits on the hood, in a white dress. Joyful wedding mood.

Arriving at Bellingham Castle

As they arrived, the warmth of Bellingham Castle was immediate. Staff lined the steps to welcome them, friends cheered, and Joey — ever the character — slid down the bannister rail while still holding Molly’s hand.Laughter filled the grand hall, and it perfectly set the tone for what was to come.

We moved seamlessly into a lively drinks reception. The castle’s resident dogs roamed freely, joining in on the celebrations and posing for the occasional photograph. Guests mingled in the gardens and enjoyed live music as we took a few relaxed family portraits and bridal party shots.

An Evening to Remember

The reception was everything a castle wedding should be — elegant, vibrant, and full of joy.

A close friend sang beautifully during the drinks reception, filling the room with atmosphere.

Later, as the evening light dimmed, the dancefloor came alive, and Molly and Joey led the way into a night of laughter, music, and pure celebration.

It was a day that truly captured everything special about Irish weddings — warmth, story, and heart.

From Dublin city’s bustle to the timeless charm of Bellingham Castle, this was a wedding I’ll never forget.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Is Trinity College Chapel a good wedding ceremony venue?

Yes. Trinity College Chapel is one of Dublin’s most historic and atmospheric wedding ceremony venues. Its architecture, natural light and sense of heritage create a deeply meaningful setting for couples.

2. Can you take wedding portraits around Dublin city after the ceremony?

Absolutely. Dublin city centre offers beautiful portrait locations including cobblestone streets, Georgian architecture and iconic pubs such as John Hughes Pub. Many couples enjoy relaxed city portraits between ceremony and reception.

3. Is Bellingham Castle suitable for large wedding receptions?

Yes. Bellingham Castle is ideal for large receptions, offering elegant indoor spaces, a grand hall, stunning gardens and impeccable hospitality. The venue accommodates groups comfortably while maintaining an intimate atmosphere.

4. Can we include a vintage or classic car in our wedding photography?

Yes. Vintage and classic cars photograph beautifully, especially in Dublin city and at Bellingham Castle. Many couples use a vintage car for portraits at locations such as the Guinness Gate and the castle entrance.

5. Do you photograph Trinity College and Bellingham Castle weddings?

Yes. INFOKUS Wedding Photography has experience photographing weddings at Trinity College Chapel, around Dublin city and at Bellingham Castle. The approach is natural, relaxed and focused on storytelling to capture authentic moments.