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The Haven Dunmore East Wedding - Coastal Weddings in Waterford

Updated: 14 hours ago

wedding couple on cliffs in Dunmore East with dress blowing

Why The Haven Hotel is a Stunning Wedding Venue

There are certain places that just feel like home, and for me, The Haven Hotel in Dunmore East is one of them. I’ve been photographing weddings here for over fifteen years, and every time I arrive, it feels like returning to somewhere familiar — to faces I know, views I grew up around, and that unbeatable seaside atmosphere that defines Dunmore East.


As a kid, I spent most of my summers cycling from Waterford City out to Dunmore East, camera always strapped to me. I’d stop at every cove — Portally Cove, Rathmoylan Cove, Ballymacaw — capturing the light on the cliffs, the waves, and the long golden evenings. Those early summers shaped my love for photography. Now, years later, I get to return to those same coves and cliffs — only this time, to capture the most important days of people’s lives.

A Wedding Day at The Haven Hotel

The Haven is one of those rare venues where you never have to leave the grounds for photographs. The gardens overlook the sea, the light shifts beautifully throughout the day, and the views across the harbour make every shot timeless. Whether you’re standing beneath the tall trees, out on the terrace, or on the lawns with the ocean behind you, the backdrops are endless.

The Kelly family — Paul, Karen, and their daughter Ciara — run The Haven with genuine warmth and care. Over the years I’ve built a great working relationship with them, and I see how much effort goes into every single wedding. It’s that personal touch that couples always mention — and it shows in the relaxed, joyful energy of every celebration.


wedding couple outside the haven hotel with vintage VW

Ceremonies at The Haven

Ceremonies here are just as memorable. The indoor ceremony room, with its classic décor, vintage mirrors, and chandeliers, has that perfect blend of charm and intimacy. The large bay windows fill the space with natural light, which makes for stunning, soft photographs no matter the season.


Outdoor ceremonies on the lawn have their own magic — sea views, fresh coastal air, and that feeling that you’re standing right at the edge of Ireland. Whether it’s an outdoor summer wedding or a cosy indoor winter celebration, The Haven’s versatility means it shines all year round.



Portraits and Signature Photo Locations

When it comes to portraits, the possibilities around Dunmore East are endless. Just a few minutes’ drive (or walk for the adventurous), you’ll find some of my favourite photography locations in the country.


The walkway that connects Dunmore East village to Portally Cove, on through Rathmoylan and Ballymacaw, is a stretch of pure coastal beauty. The cliffs, sea stacks, and woodland trails give incredible variety to couple portraits — and each spot has its own character depending on the season and light.


In the village itself, the thatched cottages, the harbour, and the colourful seaside buildings make for charming, storybook backdrops. Every wedding I shoot here tells its own version of Dunmore East — some windswept and wild, others calm and glowing at sunset.



Evening Celebrations and the New Extension

After the ceremony, the celebrations flow easily into the evening. The Haven’s newly extended reception space has replaced the old marquee — it’s now a bright, lively room filled with music, laughter, and the sound of the sea just beyond the terrace.


The indoor bar and dancefloor keep that classic Haven atmosphere alive — informal, friendly, and full of energy. It’s a space made for storytelling — and for a photographer, that’s gold.



Why I Love Photographing at The Haven Hotel

Every time I photograph a wedding here, it feels like a full-circle moment. I know the light, the weather shifts, the hidden photo spots in the woods, the cliffs, and along the harbour walls. There’s something about the mix of sea air, laughter, and history that makes weddings at The Haven truly special.


The staff, the views, the village charm — it all comes together naturally, and that ease translates directly into the photographs. It’s no wonder couples travel from all over Ireland to celebrate here.



Frequently Asked Questions

1. Can we have both our ceremony and reception at The Haven Hotel?

Yes! The Haven offers both indoor and outdoor ceremony options. The indoor room with chandeliers and large bay windows is perfect for elegant setups, while the lawn overlooking the sea is ideal for outdoor ceremonies.

2. Do we need to travel elsewhere for portraits?

Not at all. Many couples stay entirely on-site for portraits — the gardens, terrace, and sea views provide stunning backdrops. But for those who want variety, nearby Portally Cove, Rathmoylan, Ballymacaw, and the Dunmore East cliffs are only minutes away.

3. Is The Haven suitable for winter weddings?

Absolutely. The classic interior, cosy atmosphere, and sea views make winter weddings at The Haven feel intimate and warm. The light indoors is beautiful for photography even on cloudy days.

4. Who manages weddings at The Haven?

The Kelly family — Paul, Karen, and their daughter Ciara — personally oversee weddings, ensuring every detail runs smoothly. Their personal touch is one of the reasons couples love this venue.

5. What makes The Haven Hotel unique for wedding photography?

It’s the blend of sea, sky, and history — a venue that feels alive in every season. As a photographer who knows the area deeply, I can guide couples to the best light and locations, from the gardens to the cliffs and coves.



Planning Your Haven Dunmore East Wedding - Coastal Weddings in Waterford

If you’re ready to secure a photographer who knows the estate intimately, here are some useful links:



I would love to help you plan your Haven Dunmore East wedding photography.

— Waterford Wedding Photographer Keith Sullivan, INFOKUS Wedding Photography



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