Simon O'Neill

Ah, wedding days. A mix of love, nerves, and the occasional rogue groomsman trying to escape photos. But when Michelle & Shane tied the knot on the 6th of May, 2023, it was nothing short of a masterclass in how to do a wedding right—chilled, seamless, and full of heart.

Michelle and Shane’s love story is one of those classic “of course, they were going to meet” tales. With the rolling hills of County Down as their playground, it was only a matter of time before fate (and a well-timed blanking incident in Belfast) brought them together.

And when it came time for the big question, Shane kept it simple and perfect—just the two of them, a Sunday morning at home. No grand gestures, no big productions, just a moment between two people who knew they were forever.

Now, wedding planning can be a battleground of indecision, spreadsheets, and Pinterest boards. Not for Michelle. With her background in marketing and event management, she ran the wedding prep like a well-oiled campaign. Venue booked, suppliers locked in, and a dress that was custom-designed to perfection from Castle Couture Ballymena—this was a woman who had her wedding sorted before most brides have even started a Pinterest board.

Shane? He just turned up. (His words, not mine!) Though he did suddenly take an interest in the details after attending a wedding two weeks before their own, firing off last-minute questions like, “Do we have this? Do we need that?” The man had his priorities straight.

Some weddings start with panic and misplaced cufflinks. Not this one. The morning was a breeze—bubbles were flowing, the playlist was spot-on, and there was an air of excitement rather than stress. Even Michelle, who was the last to get her makeup done, took it all in her stride. No mad rush, just pure wedding morning bliss.

Then came the ceremony at St. Colman’s Shinn Chapel, where Michelle and Shane sealed the deal in front of family, friends, and (most importantly) a photographer who knew exactly how to handle a camera-shy bridal party.

Now, I’ve photographed my fair share of weddings, and let’s be real—groomsmen are rarely queuing up to pose. Shane and the lads were no exception. Luckily, I work fast. Short and snappy was the name of the game, meaning they could enjoy the drinks reception instead of spending hours posing in uncomfortable shoes.

And let’s talk about that Carlingford backdrop—blue skies, stunning views of the lough, and an atmosphere of pure celebration. Michelle and Shane nearly skipped a shot down at the waterfront, but thank goodness they didn’t. That photo? Absolute magic.

The party kicked off at the Four Seasons Carlingford, where Michelle and Shane took their first dance to “Starlight” by Westlife (because obviously, Westlife was always going to feature).

Any disasters? Nope. This was a wedding planned with military precision. Michelle swears by staying organised, making decisions when you’re sure, and trusting top suppliers to do what they do best. Oh, and a good “To-Do” list in your phone notes.

After the big day, they jetted off to Italy for two weeks, soaking up the romance of Florence, Rome, and Sorrento—because if you’re going to honeymoon, you might as well do it in style.

Michelle and Shane’s wedding was proof that you don’t have to overcomplicate things. It was fun, relaxed, and focused on what actually matters—celebrating love with the people who mean the most. And if I had to sum it up? A dream to photograph, a joy to witness, and an absolute masterclass in how to throw a wedding with style.

Here’s to a lifetime of love, laughter, and Shane never questioning wedding budgets again. 💍📸✨