Cathy & Michael’s Luttrellstown Castle Wedding
There are few venues in Ireland that feel as timeless and grand as Luttrellstown Castle. The tree-lined driveway, ivy-covered stone walls and sweeping lawns make it one of Dublin’s most breathtaking wedding settings. When we arrived for Catherine and Michael’s wedding, the castle looked incredible. The sun filtered through the clouds and the air felt calm and expectant. the kind of day every photographer hopes for.
Prep
The morning began in Donnybrook where Catherine and her bridesmaids were getting ready in her family home on Nutley Avenue. The house was full of lovely laughter and excitement as Michelle Kinsella worked her magic with make-up and Claire Barry styled the girls’ hair. Catherine’s Caroline Castigliano dress hung in the window while her bridesmaids: Charlotte, Sarah, Izzy, Eleanor and Isobel helped with final touches and a quick glass of champagne before leaving for the church.
Meanwhile in Monkstown, Michael and his groomsmen were getting ready at his family home on Longford Terrace. The calm of the morning and the view of the sea gave the perfect backdrop for a relaxed start to the day. Dressed in classic Tom Ford suits, Michael and his groomsmen looked effortlessly stylish as they joked around before heading for the ceremony.
Ceremony
The ceremony took place in the beautiful light-filled church St. Mary’s Church, Haddington Road in Ballsbridge. The moment Catherine walked up the aisle with her mum Teresa was filled with emotion and quiet strength.
The ceremony was led by Father Joe Beere, a close family friend who made every word personal. Guests smiled through tears as Catherine and Michael exchanged vows surrounded by 185 of their closest friends and family. When the newlyweds stepped out into the Dublin sunshine, the applause and laughter outside the church erupted.
Details
From the moment we arrived at Luttrellstown Castle, the details were flawless. The floral design by Fleur Weddings brought soft colour and texture to every space, and the cake by Cupcakes and Counting stood proudly under the chandeliers in the ballroom. Every table was beautifully set, each place card handwritten, every candle lit. It was the perfect mix of elegance and ease.
Formals
Catherine and Michael wanted to keep the formal photographs short and relaxed so we focused on the essentials — immediate families, bridal party, and a few quick portraits in front of the castle. They didn’t want anything posed or stiff, which suited our style perfectly. Within minutes they were laughing again surrounded by their friends with the formalities done and the fun beginning.
Drinks Reception
While guests mingled on the terrace, Niamh the castle’s wedding coordinator, made sure everything ran seamlessly. Glasses of prosecco sparkled in the sunlight and the gardens came alive with conversation and laughter. The castle’s façade looked incredible in the soft afternoon light, an absolute dream for a photographer’s. These are the moments we love most, when everyone is relaxed and completely themselves.
Dinner
Guests were called into the ballroom for dinner at 5.45pm. The room was filled with golden light from the tall windows as the first speeches began. Catherine and Michael had chosen a mix of speeches before and after the meal, which created a beautiful rhythm to the evening. There were heartfelt words, plenty of laughter and a few hilarious stories that had everyone cheering.
First Dance
As the last plates were cleared, the band — the Bentley Boys — took the stage and the atmosphere changed instantly. The first dance was simple and romantic, just the two of them moving quietly together before their guests flooded the dance floor. It was one of those moments that felt timeless.
Dancing
Once the party started it never slowed down. The Bentley Boys kept the energy high, and guests filled the floor from the first song to the last. Every smile and every hug felt genuine. As photographers, we live for that kind of atmosphere — real connection, real laughter and moments that tell the story better than words ever could.
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Supplier Credits
Venue: Luttrellstown Castle
Ceremony: St. Mary’s Church, Haddington Road
Make-up: Michelle Kinsella
Hair: Claire Barry
Florist: Fleur Weddings
Videography: Edithouse
Band: Bentley Boys
Dress: Caroline Castigliano
Cake: Cupcakes and Counting
Groomswear: Tom Ford
FAQS’s
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Yes. Luttrellstown Castle is licensed for civil ceremonies, humanist celebrations and symbolic blessings. Many couples choose to hold their entire day — from morning prep to evening celebrations — within the castle and grounds for a seamless experience.
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The castle offers endless photo opportunities, from the grand staircase and ivy-covered courtyard to the manicured gardens and tree-lined drive. We also love photographing couples during golden hour beside the lake or under the archway at the front of the castle.
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Luttrellstown Castle can comfortably accommodate up to 180 guests for a wedding celebration, while smaller events can use the drawing rooms or library for a more intimate atmosphere.
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Absolutely. The castle is as beautiful in winter as it is in summer. The warm interiors, roaring fires and candlelit reception rooms create a romantic atmosphere that photographs beautifully.
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It’s the mix of luxury, privacy and history. The castle feels grand yet personal, and its location just outside Dublin means couples can enjoy the tranquility of the countryside without being far from the city.