Did you hear about the time last season when I got to capture a Coal Exchange Hotel wedding? Not just any wedding, a Gatsby themed wedding in Cardiff Bay? Yes, the same wedding where I knew the bride from secondary school? It was a mixture of all kinds of nerves, knowing a bunch of guests, knowing the bride from such a young age and having her trust me with her wedding photographs. And of course the shooting an incredible themed wedding, which has been on my bucket list in forever. No pressure Michelle!

A Wedding at The Coal Exchange Hotel

This was my first time shooting at The Coal Exchange Hotel and what a backdrop it made for a 1920s wedding. It feels so grand from the guests rooms to the grand ballroom. It was so wonderful to see how Louise and Chris decorated it to fit with their wedding decor and not to mention how much their guests rose to the challenge of a themed wedding. Every single guest dressed the part, from feathers in their hair, to beaded dress, to black suits. It was such a joy to capture.

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Cardiff Wedding Photography

This was a dry day and I love to use as much natural light as possible for group and wedding party photos. So straight after the ceremony we headed to the courtyard area at the front so I could make use of the outside area before their wedding meal.

With the venue being in the heart of Cardiff Bay, I really wanted to use as much of the surrounding area as a backdrop for couple shots. My aim is always to get a variety of locations. From inside The Coal Exchange Hotel, outside the main doors and then the streets around the venue. This red telephone box is on the next street over, and the shutters are directly opposite the venue. I just had to use it for some fun and unique wedding photos!

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wedding photography Testimonial

“Michelle is incredible!!

She was our wedding photographer at the The Coal Exchange Hotel. She’s friendly and professional and we could put our complete trust in her as she captured our day perfectly.

Michelle’s work rate is second to none, all of our guests commented on how tirelessly she worked and how amiable she was with all of our guests. Michelle’s advice and guidance on how to get the most out of our day using was great and she had brilliant creative ideas for shots. She is so much more than a photographer and took care of us, making sure that we had time together during the day and her wedding expertise are second to none.”

Are you getting married in Cardiff? Looking for a Cardiff wedding photographer? Then I might just be the girl for you. I’d love to hear all about your wedding ideas. Send me a message with lots of wedding details and let’s start chatting. You can see more about the other weddings I’ve shot over on my blog too. It’s packed full of tips and tricks, couples sessions and real weddings.