If there is one corner of Northern Ireland that screams "cinematic romance," it is the Cathedral Quarter. For a wedding photographer, the short walk between the grandeur of St Anne’s Cathedral and the Art Deco opulence of The Merchant Hotel offers a backdrop that rivals any European capital.

Jessica and David’s wedding was the perfect example of this. It was a day that blended high-fashion editorial aesthetics with the raw, unscripted emotion of a family celebration—exactly the kind of story I love to tell.

The Ceremony: St Anne’s Cathedral

The day began at the iconic St Anne’s Cathedral. The scale of this venue is breathtaking, but my goal is always to find the intimacy within the grandeur.

As Jessica walked down that incredible aisle, the light filtering through the stained glass was unparalleled. Instead of interfering, I took a documentary approach here, capturing the quiet glances between David and his best man, and the tearful smiles from the front row. The cathedral offers a dramatic sense of scale that allows for truly cinematic imagery without needing to stage a thing.

My Favourite Merchant Hotel Wedding Photographs

One of the best reasons to plan a Merchant Hotel Belfast wedding is the location. We didn't need to travel for hours for photos; we simply stepped outside.

We usually take a short detour through the cobbled streets of the Cathedral Quarter. This is where my "editorial" style comes into play. I usually guide the couple into pockets of light against the grit of the red brick and street art, creating portraits that feel less like a wedding photoshoot and more like a spread in Vogue. The contrast between the historic architecture and their sharp, modern styling was perfection. That said, Jessica had a clear vision of what she wanted. She wished for photos only at the Cathedral and The Merchant, ensuring every image maintained that same sense of grandeur.

The Reception: The Merchant Hotel

Arriving at The Merchant Hotel always feels like stepping into a different era. For a photographer, the Art Deco wing and the main Great Room are playgrounds of shadow and light.

Jessica and David hosted their reception in the Great Room, under that legendary chandelier. The atmosphere was sophisticated yet electric. I focused on capturing the "refined details"—the texture of the florals, the table settings, and the clinking of champagne glasses—before shifting focus to the party.

The lighting in The Merchant is moody and dramatic, which suits my signature style perfectly. It allows for rich, emotive black and white images that preserve the soul of the party long after the music stops.

Why I Love Photographing Weddings at The Merchant

As a Belfast wedding photographer, I see a lot of venues, but The Merchant stands out for a few reasons:

The Light: Whether it’s the roof garden in summer or the moody interiors in winter, the light here is always interesting.

The Convenience: Having the Cathedral and the city center on your doorstep means we spend less time travelling and more time capturing genuine moments.

The Aesthetic: It matches the "fashion-forward" vibe many of my couples are looking for.

Jessica and David’s day was a reminder of why I do this. It wasn’t just about the stunning venues; it was about the connection between two people, framed by the most beautiful architecture Belfast has to offer.

Planning a Wedding at The Merchant Hotel?

If you are looking for a photographer who values candour, composition, and cinematic storytelling, I would love to hear from you. My approach is to let your day unfold naturally while I capture the legacy of your celebration.

[Check Availability for Your Date Here]

Everything You Need to Know About Weddings at The Merchant

Guest Capacity: The Great Room can host up to 200 guests, while the Rita Duffy Room is perfect for intimate weddings of 60.

Best Time for Photos: As a photographer, I recommend scheduling couple portraits straight away after the ceremony along with families for 45 minutes or so. Then before sunset to catch the golden light on the rooftop garden we can do a few extra photos.

Parking/Logistics: The hotel offers valet parking, but for guests, the nearby St Anne's Square multi-story is the best option.

The Dream Team:

Venue: The Merchant Hotel - Rita Duffy Suite

Dress: Vintage Rose at The Wedding Centre

Hair: Rose at Blanc bridal studio

FAQ's

Q: Can you get married on the roof of The Merchant?

A: Yes, the rooftop garden is available for drinks receptions and photos, offering some of the best views in Belfast.

Q: Where are the best photo spots near The Merchant?

A: You are spoiled for choice. The Cathedral Quarter's cobbled streets are 30 seconds away, and St Anne's Cathedral provides a dramatic architectural backdrop. Inside the merchant is amazing for couple shots.

Planning Your Own Merchant Hotel Wedding? Here is My Honest Guide

Having photographed countless weddings here, I’ve learned a few things that might help you plan your day.

Which Room Should I Choose?

The Great Room: Best for grand statements. The chandelier is iconic, but you need a photographer who understands how to handle complex lighting situations (like me!).

The Roof Garden: Perfect for summer drinks receptions. It’s one of the few places in Belfast where you can get a private outdoor vibe in the city centre.

My Top Tip for Photos The Merchant is dark and moody inside, that's part of its charm. Don't fight it! Embrace the shadows. However, I always recommend we sneak out for 15 minutes during dinner to catch the city lights in the Cathedral Quarter. The streetlights on the cobbles create a magical atmosphere that you just can't get during the day.

—Steven