Andrea and Callum’s Wedding at Dingle Skellig Hotel
Andrea and Callum were married at the Dingle Skellig Hotel in Dingle, County Kerry. Whenever I get an enquiry for Dingle, my ears pick up. It’s a place I love. There’s something about the Dingle Peninsula that is a strong draw for me. So when they got in touch, I was eager to get something going.
I travelled up from Waterford that morning. Three and a half hour drive, not too bad. The 3pm wedding ceremony meant that as long as I was there for 11.30pm everything would be fine.
The forecast was changing all week long. It was meant to be raining, then it was meant to be sunny, then it was meant to be windy. I didn’t know what it was going to be like. The plan was to have the ceremony outside. The couple really wanted this to happen.
At 2.30pm the final call was made to do it on The Sun Terrace overlooking Dingle Bay. More about that in a second.
Andrea got ready in the bridal suite, surrounded by friends and family. Outside the weather was changing and causing apprehension about whether or not we’d actually get away with going out. The hotel asked her to be ready at 3pm, which she duly was. And she got downstairs with her bridesmaids. Everybody was outside ready to go. Billy the humanist celebrant was on hand. Even though it was a little bit breezy, it all went down perfectly.
They’d already made it official and got married in advance, so this was just a party wedding. They flew in guests from all over the world. Andrea was from Canada, and she had cousins from Trinidad and Tobago. Guests from all over the world. Australia included.
After the ceremony, we went straight into the drinks reception, which was full of fun as guests were making their way around.
It was one of those weddings where I felt like more of a guest than a photographer. I made some friends, and just a terrific drinks reception. I had a great time.
After an impromptu family photo session, I grabbed the bride and groom, we hopped in my car, and headed five minutes to the Beenbawn Beach. I didn’t really want to go onto a beach, but I just liked the area, and it was easy to get to. And as it turns out, the couple absolutely loved it, and the time together. We were supposed to go for ten minutes, and we ended up taking about twenty, but that was absolutely fine and time that was well spent for the couple. We got some terrific shots.
When we got back, all the guests were on their way in for dinner. Followed by the bride and groom, who decided to leave their speeches until after dinner.
The speeches were fantastic. It was the first time I’ve ever seen four parents involve themselves and say in their own bits, with Callum’s mother finishing off with a Seamus Heaney poem. The bride and groom didn’t say anything, which was also lovely. They just stayed put at their sweetheart table at the top of the room, looking out over their friends and guests.
That evening, as the wind died down, and a gorgeous sunset appeared, everyone made their way out onto the lawn, and it was just a terrific hour of mixing and mingling, and I got some terrific shots.
The band were set up, ready to go. Callum, who himself, is a fairly prolific musician, picked the band The Beat Club and they’re amazing. Party people having a great time.
As I left Dingle, at half past ten, the lights still hanging in the air, and all I was thinking to myself was, I can’t wait to get back.
Special Mentions
You know what makes a wedding truly spectacular? It’s the amazing team behind the scenes making everything happen seamlessly. I have to give a huge shoutout to the incredible vendors who made Andrea and Callum’s day absolutely perfect.
The talented crew at FMN Bridal had everyone’s hair looking magazine-worthy – seriously, those styles held up beautifully even with that coastal breeze! And Ruthanna Crowley? Pure magic with the makeup brushes. Everyone looked naturally gorgeous and camera-ready all day long.
I’m still in awe of the floral arrangements from Maura’s Cottage Flowers. The way they complemented the coastal setting while adding that perfect pop of color to every frame… just stunning! And speaking of stunning, that cake by Sinead Sheehy at Milis and Mill was a work of art that tasted as good as it looked (yes, I might have sneaked a bite!).
Let’s talk about Beat Club – what a perfect choice for this international crowd! When your groom is a musician, you know the band has to be top-notch, and these guys definitely delivered. They had everyone from Canadian cousins to Australian mates mixing it up on the dance floor!
**Common Questions About Dingle Skellig Hotel Wedding Photography:**
1. What happens if it rains during an outdoor ceremony?
I always work closely with the hotel’s backup plans. Plus, those moody Dingle skies make for incredible photos!
2. How long do we need for photos?
I typically need 20 minutes for couple shots, but I’m flexible – just like with Andrea and Callum’s beach session.
3. Are there good indoor photo locations?
Absolutely! The hotel has gorgeous interior spots, perfect for those wild Kerry weather days.*
4. What’s the best time for outdoor photos?
That golden hour before sunset is magical at the Dingle Skellig. Just look at Andrea and Callum’s evening shots!
5. Can you handle large group photos?
The hotel has perfect spots for groups of any size. I make it quick and painless!
6. Do you know good nearby photo locations?
The beach is just five minutes away, and I know all the hidden gems around Dingle.
7. How do you handle mixed lighting conditions?
Dingle’s natural light is gorgeous, and I know exactly how to work with it, inside and out.
8. Can we do photos before the ceremony?
Absolutely! The hotel has plenty of spots where we can work while keeping you hidden from guests. There are some amazing beaches nearby.
9. How long will you stay at the reception?
I typically stay through the first dances and catch that gorgeous Dingle sunset in summertime.
10. What if we’re camera shy?
My natural, candid style means you’ll hardly notice me – the best photos happen when you’re just being yourselves!