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A Relaxed Scottish Borders Elopement Filled with Laughter, Cosy Fires & Meaningful Moments
Jodie and Denny travelled from England for a wonderfully relaxed Scottish Borders elopement, sharing their wedding day with just two lifelong friends. From cosy fires and historic rooms to laughter-filled portraits outdoors, their intimate celebration proves that the smallest weddings can often create the biggest memories.
Why Jodie & Denny Chose a Scottish Borders Elopement
Jodie and Denny didn't travel to the Scottish Borders to put on a wedding. They came to quietly celebrate the life they'd already built together.
Instead, they invited just two guests: Jodie's cousin Rachel, who is also her best friend, and her husband, also one of their best friends. Having celebrated their own wedding the previous year, it felt like a lovely way to continue the celebrations together.
Choosing an intimate Scottish Borders elopement meant they could focus entirely on the reason they were there.
No rushing between guests.
No complicated timeline.
Just time together.
Planning a Wedding That Feels Like You
One of the things I loved most about Jodie and Denny was how well they knew themselves. When Jodie first got in touch, she told me exactly what mattered to them.
"We want some close-up shots of me and my husband, and also some casual laughing shots that aren't planned."
That sentence sums up my approach to photography perfectly.
Of course we'll create beautiful portraits, but the photographs people treasure most are often the ones that weren't planned at all. A laugh after a joke. A squeeze of the hand. That look you give each other when you realise... "We actually did it."
Jodie loves photographs and enjoys being in front of the camera. Denny? Not quite so much! He wanted to enjoy his day, feel comfortable but also have photographs even though he isn’t sure about being in them. And that's completely normal, it's never something I worry about. Instead of spending hours posing, we simply wandered around together, chatting as we explored. Before long, Denny completely forgot about the camera, especially once we headed out into nature - his preferred environment.
Those natural moments became some of my favourite photographs of the day.
Thinking about planning your own intimate wedding?
If you're dreaming of a wedding that's relaxed, meaningful and centred around the two of you, I'd love to hear your plans.
"You made us all feel very comfortable and got the shots we wanted. You made it feel effortless and we have such great memories."
A Cosy Ceremony Full of Meaning
March in Scotland can be wonderfully unpredictable, but that's all part of the charm.
Outside, the gardens were just beginning to wake up after winter. Inside, the historic rooms felt warm and welcoming, with the fire making everything feel even cosier.
Their ceremony was beautifully simple.
With only two guests watching on, every smile, every promise and every laugh felt incredibly personal. Rather than disappearing into a busy reception afterwards, everyone gathered together for relaxed drinks by the fire.
No formal schedule.
No pressure.
Just good conversation and quiet celebrations.
Sometimes those slower moments become the memories people treasure most.
The Best Part About Small Weddings? You Can Slow Down
One of the biggest advantages of choosing an elopement is the freedom it gives you.
Instead of squeezing portraits into ten rushed minutes they could simply wander and enjoy the place they had chosen.
The old stone bridges.
The gardens.
The quiet pathways.
The historic rooms.
Every location became another excuse to spend a little more time together, exploring.
Jodie had told me they loved black and white photographs, while Denny relaxed most when he was outdoors. As soon as we stepped outside, they forgot all about being photographed.
They laughed.
They danced.
They cuddled up under an umbrella.
They simply enjoyed being together.
And that's exactly what an elopement should feel like.
Looking for a historic wedding venue?
If you're considering Traquair House for your own wedding, I've put together a detailed guide covering the venue, ceremony spaces and some of my favourite places for photographs.
Why Choosing the Right Photographer Matters
When Jodie and Denny were looking for a photographer, they weren't simply looking for someone whose photographs they liked.
They wanted someone who understood the venue, listened to what they wanted and, perhaps most importantly, someone they felt completely comfortable spending part of their wedding day with.
Having photographed many weddings at Traquair before meant I could suggest relaxed places to wander after the ceremony and help everything flow naturally, leaving them free to simply enjoy being together.
As Jodie later told me:
"From the initial meeting I knew you were our photographer. Such a lovely person with a vast knowledge and really listened to what we wanted."
That means the world to me because, for me, wedding photography has never just been about creating beautiful images. It's about helping you enjoy your wedding day so completely that, years later, your photographs don't just show you what happened – they bring back exactly how it felt to be there.
💛 Little Extras
One of my favourite parts of every wedding day is sending over a few preview photographs while the excitement is still fresh.
Jodie told me afterwards how much they loved being able to share a few images with family and friends at their big party a week later.
It's a small thing, but it's always lovely knowing couples can relive those first moments as newlyweds straight away.
Why I Love Photographing Scottish Borders Elopements
There is something wonderful about a small wedding.
Without a packed timeline or hundreds of guests, there's space to breathe.
Space to notice the little moments.
The quiet smiles.
The hugs.
The laughter between friends.
Those are the moments that tell the real story of a wedding day.
Jodie and Denny's wedding wasn't about putting on a show.
It was about celebrating the life they'd already built together and quietly marking the start of a new chapter.
It couldn't have suited them better.
"From the initial meeting I knew you were our photographer. Such a lovely person with a vast knowledge and really listened to what we wanted."
Planning Your Own Scottish Borders Elopement?
Whether you're travelling from elsewhere in the UK or planning a destination wedding in Scotland, an intimate wedding gives you the freedom to create a day that's completely your own.
If you're dreaming of a relaxed Scottish Borders elopement filled with beautiful scenery, meaningful moments and photographs that feel natural rather than posed, I'd love to hear what you're planning.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is the Scottish Borders a good place to elope?
Absolutely. I actually was married in Selkirk, a neighbouring borders town, so I personally recommend it! The Scottish Borders is close to Edinburgh, Glasgow and off course it borders England, hence the name. It’s full of historic houses, rolling countryside and peaceful locations, making it ideal for couples who want a relaxed, intimate wedding away from the busy world.
How many guests can you have at a Scottish elopement?
There are no rules. Some couples choose just the two of them, while others invite a handful of close family or friends. Jodie and Denny celebrated with just two guests, creating a wonderfully personal atmosphere.
What if it rains during a Scottish elopement?
A little Scottish weather often adds to the story. Some of my favourite photographs from this wedding were taken under an umbrella, proving you don't need sunshine to create beautiful memories.
How long do you need a photographer for an elopement?
Many couples only need a few hours. Jodie and Denny wanted coverage of the ceremony, relaxed portraits afterwards and time to enjoy the venue with their closest friends, which gave us plenty of opportunity to create a natural collection of photographs.
Discover more Scotland guides, wedding venue inspiration and real weddings from Edinburgh wedding photographer Ali Jay.
Holyrood Park | The Highland Vibes of Edinburgh (Perfect for a Photoshoot)
If you're dreaming of a photo session with wild Scottish backdrops—without leaving Edinburgh—Holyrood Park is your spot. With Arthur’s Seat, St Anthony’s Chapel, and lochs surrounded by dramatic cliffs, it’s like the Highlands in miniature.
If you're dreaming of a photo session with wild Scottish backdrops—without driving into the Highlands—Holyrood Park is your spot. With Arthur’s Seat, St Anthony’s Chapel and the Salisbury Crags, it gives you those epic landscapes with castle views, dramatic cliffs, ruins, and peaceful lochs, all just minutes from the city centre.
As a local photographer, I adore this place for portraits, elopements, proposals and family shoots. Whether you’re after sweeping views, hidden ruins or just a romantic walk with your partner, Holyrood Park has a bit of everything—plus the light here can be absolutely magical.
How to Get to Holyrood Park
📍 Location: At the foot of the Royal Mile, next to Holyrood Palace
🚶♀️ Walk from Waverley Station: Around 15 minutes
🚖 Taxi from city centre: About 4 minutes, roughly £8–11
🚊 Buses: Several Lothian buses stop nearby at Holyrood Road
You can’t really miss it—the park rises dramatically behind Holyrood Palace, with Arthur’s Seat towering in the distance.
Best Photo Spots In Holyrood Park
Here’s where I love to take clients for unforgettable images:-
Arthur’s Seat (for dramatic landscape lovers)
If you’re up for a short hike, this extinct volcano gives panoramic views over Edinburgh and out to the sea. It’s a great spot for couples who want windswept, romantic shots with epic Scottish skies. (Pro tip: golden hour is breathtaking here!)
Note: It’s a steep climb, so wear good footwear, and we’ll take our time if you're in a dress or smart shoes.
St Margaret’s Loch (for peaceful, scenic portraits)
At the base of the hill, this loch is perfect for more relaxed family or couple portraits. There are swans, grassy areas to sit on, and beautiful views of the loch and the chapel. There is a car park at the loch so it's also great for anyone who doesn’t want to walk far!
St Anthony’s Chapel Ruins (for that ancient, moody vibe)
Just a short (but steep!) walk from the loch, these medieval ruins are one of my favourite backdrops in the park. The stone archways, with Arthur’s Seat behind, give serious Outlander vibes.
It’s quiet here, so we can take our time getting natural, unposed moments. And if the weather turns misty? Even better—it just adds to the mood!
Salisbury Crags (for dramatic cliffs & rock textures)
If you love big, bold backdrops, the Crags are ideal. With their layered rock formations and sweeping city views, they’re amazing for wide shots that show off Edinburgh’s landscape. We’ll just need to pick a safe route—it’s not ideal for very young children.
Planning Notes
🚗 Driving/Parking:
There are a few small car parks, but road closures are in place at weekends to make the park more pedestrian-friendly. During the week, access is open Tues–Thurs from 9:30am–3pm via the High Road and Dunsapie Loch Car Park.
🚻 Toilets:
You’ll find public toilets near the Holyrood Park Education Centre.
Want to get plan, get in touch and I’ll help you plan perfect route or if you want to do more research, check other featured areas
Let’s Talk Weather & What to Wear
Scotland’s weather keeps us on our toes—but don’t stress. Overcast skies = soft flattering light, and even a bit of drizzle can look magical on camera. Think moody, romantic, windswept and real.
Bring layers, maybe a bright scarf or a stylish raincoat. A comfy pair of boots will go a long way too. If it’s too wet, we can reschedule or opt for one of the sheltered spots.
Why I Love Shooting Here
Holyrood Park feels like a slice of Scotland in miniature. You’ve got the drama of the Highlands, the serenity of the lochs, the ancient mystery of ruins—all without leaving the city. It’s ideal for:
City breaks: If you're visiting and want epic photos to remember your trip
Local families or couples: Wanting a nature-based shoot without the travel
Elopements & proposals: Want something romantic, a bit wild, and very Scottish
Every shoot here feels like an adventure—and I’d love to help you plan yours.
Ready for an Adventure in Holyrood Park?
If you’re thinking about a shoot here (or just curious), drop me a message and let’s start planning. Whether it's a family walk, an engagement session or just a spontaneous photo adventure—I’ll help you choose the best time, best light and best spots.
Get in touch here
Discover more Scotland guides, wedding venue inspiration and real weddings from Edinburgh wedding photographer Ali Jay.
Eloping With The Family | Sherbrooke Castle Wedding
Eloping from Canada to Scotland for a beautifully emotional micro wedding at Sherbrooke Castle
A Scottish baronial-style castle in Glasgow, Sherbrooke Castle offers a mix of history, grandeur, and cosy charm.
I recently photographed Rebecca & Zac’s beautiful elopement at Sherbrooke Castle, and if you’re considering it for your wedding, here’s some helpful tips for your planning.
Find out more about wedding photography
A Wedding Day at Sherbrooke Castle
Sherbrooke Castle has that classic Glasgow red sandstone, the kind that glows warm in the evening light or brightens up a driech day – which is more typical in Scotland!. Perched up on a hill above pretty gardens, it’s the kind of place that feels grand but not too grand, luxurious but not too stuffy.
And when Rebecca and Zac decided to elope to Scotland, bringing just their closest family, Sherbrooke Castle became the perfect spot for their intimate, love-filled day.
The ceremony was held in Sherbrooke’s conservatory, which, if you’re familiar with Scottish weather, is an absolute blessing. Loads of natural light, completely sheltered from the elements, and a really lovely, intimate space. The couple worked with the incredible Linda Keys from Agnostic Scotland, setting up their guests in a horseshoe arrangement, so that everyone felt included rather than just watching from the sidelines.It was one of those ceremonies where you could just feel the love in the room—the kind that made the guests well up before anyone had even said "I do”
Once we’d wrapped up photos, it was time for the real fun—steak, wine, and some seriously emotional speeches. I’ve been photographing weddings for over ten years, and I’ve heard a lot of speeches. But something about Rebecca’s sister’s emotional words hit me — so much so that I might have accidentally wiped a tear away behind my camera.
5 Best Things About Weddings at Sherbrooke Castle
It’s Convenient Yet Secluded
Tucked away in Pollokshields it’s close enough for guests to get to easily from Glasgow City Centre, but still has that "away from it all" feel.It Works for Both Big & Small Weddings
Whether you’re planning a 100-person celebration or something tiny and personal, the castle has spaces to suit both.The Conservatory is a Solid Backup Plan for Scottish Weather
If you’re worried about rain (which, let’s be honest, in Scotland, you always should be), Sherbrooke Castle’s conservatory is a stunning indoor option.It Has On-Site AccommodationIt Has Rooms for Guests to Stay Over
With 18 boutique bedrooms, your nearest and dearest won’t need to worry about taxis home at the end of the night.
Great Photo Spots
It doesn’t have vast grounds but it has some great little photo spots, mainly the wide steps in the garden and the grand stairwell in the castle.
Want to know more about Scottish Castle Wedding Venues?
FAQs – Everything You Need to Know About Sherbrooke Castle Weddings
How many people can stay at Sherbrooke Castle?
There are 18 rooms, sleeping 35 ppl, so perfect for keeping family and friends close.What are the wedding spaces like at Sherbrooke Castle?
You can choose from the conservatory for bright, airy vibes, or the main function room.What is the history of Sherbrooke Castle?
Built in the 19th century, it started as a before becoming a luxury hotel and wedding venue.Is there a bridal suite at Sherbrooke Castle?
Yes, the bridal suite is spacious and bright—ideal for getting-ready photos.
Final Thoughts – Planning a Sherbrooke Castle Wedding?
If you’re looking at Sherbrooke Castle for your wedding, I hope this has given you a bit more insight into what a real wedding here looks like—from the ceremony setup to the best photo spots.
And if you’re still on the hunt for a wedding photographer who knows this venue inside out (and won’t run away when the speeches get emotional)? Let’s chat!
I’d love to hear about your plans and capture all the beautiful, fun, and unexpected moments of your big day.
Discover more Scotland guides, wedding venue inspiration and real weddings from Edinburgh wedding photographer Ali Jay.
Gothic Wedding Magic in Edinburgh | Sarah and Lee’s Non-Traditional Day
A gothic wedding celebration at Edinburgh’s Prestonfield House filled with dark elegance and unique personal touches. From handfasting ceremony and mead-drinking ritual to an axe-wielding cake-cutting, Sarah & Lee’s wedding defied tradition in the most memorable way. Prestonfield black cat even appear to compliment Prestonfield’s moody décor and add the final bit of Gothic flair.
Sarah and Lee's Gothic Wedding at Prestonfield House in Edinburgh was a celebration steeped in Halloween inspiration and personal touches. First meeting working in the food industry, they bonded over their shared love of food, music, tattoos, and a creative, alternative lifestyle. After nearly a decade together, Sarah decided to take the lead and proposed to Lee on a holiday in New York—an unexpected yet perfect reflection of their unique connection.
Interested in Wedding Photography?
From the beginning, they envisioned a wedding with gothic charm, delicious food, and a relaxed yet deeply meaningful atmosphere. They found their ideal setting at Prestonfield House, with its delicious food, rich history, dramatic interiors, and gothic style. For their intimate gathering, Prestonfield provided them with small beautiful spaces which perfectly blended elegance and moody autumnal vibes.
Looking for Inspiration?
Sarah walked down the aisle in a dress that beautifully balanced traditional elegance with personal flair. Though she initially planned to wear black, she fell in love with the first gown she tried on, a glittering tulle-layered design with a flattering deep v-neckline and the perfect back to showcase her “Corpse Bride” tattoo—a subtle but fitting tribute to their shared love of the gothic. Completing her look was a custom headdress by Hysteria Machine, and her hand-painted leather jacket added a distinct edge.
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Lee’s wore a custom waistcoat sourced from Whitby Goth Festival, adding a unique gothic touch that tied in with the day’s theme. In a break from tradition, Lee chose his daughter as his best woman, a meaningful choice that reflected their close bond and added a personal touch to the ceremony.
Planning a Unique Wedding?
The ceremony itself was really tailored to them by the fabulous Tim Maguire, it blended pagan traditions such as a handfasting, drinking mead, and jumping over a broom. They walked down the aisle together as equals, they chose a soundtrack of music from Cradle of Filth, Ghost, and Type O Negative, reflecting their love of alternative styles. And Sarah and her mum’s beloved dog, Olly the Springer Spaniel, carried the rings up the aisle to them which brought a sense of warmth and playfulness to their gothic ceremony.
The ceremony itself was really tailored to them by the fabulous Tim Maguire, it blended pagan traditions such as a handfasting, drinking mead, and jumping over a broom. They walked down the aisle together as equals, they chose a soundtrack of music from Cradle of Filth, Ghost, and Type O Negative, reflecting their love of alternative styles. And Sarah and her mum’s beloved dog, Olly the Springer Spaniel, carried the rings up the aisle to them which brought a sense of warmth and playfulness to their gothic ceremony.
What is a Gothic Wedding?
Sarah and Lee’s wedding at Prestonfield House was a beautiful example of a Gothic wedding. So, what exactly makes a wedding “Gothic”? For Sarah and Lee, it meant embracing the moody elegance of autumn and the dark interiors of Prestonfield House along with personalised elements like a dramatic black wedding cake, and a custom handfasting ceremony. With deep colours, gothic decor, pumpkins and even a black cat, the day felt like something from a dark fairy tale.
What to Wear for a Gothic Wedding
Sarah’s wedding look showcased Gothic style with her custom crown, Corpse Bride tattoo, and a unique, traditional dress with a modern twist. She originally planned to wear black but fell in love with a dress that allowed her to express her love for Gothic elements, without giving up the classic feel of a wedding gown.
For guests attending a Gothic wedding, choosing attire in deep, jewel tones or even black can harmonize with the theme without overshadowing the couple’s look.
Finding a Gothic Wedding Venue in Edinburgh
When searching for a Gothic wedding venue, it’s all about finding a space with rich history and atmosphere. Sarah and Lee chose Prestonfield House in Edinburgh because it offered exactly that. The historic venue provided the perfect backdrop, with its dark, elegant rooms, dark jewel fabrics, gold features, chandeliers and antique charm.
For other couples considering a Gothic venue, Edinburgh has several options—from castles to grand estates—that capture the essence of Gothic romance.
Final Touches: Personal Details & Unique Traditions
With a ceremony complete with drinking mead, a handfasting, and even their dog delivering the rings, Sarah and Lee’s wedding went beyond convention. Lee’s daughter stood as his best person, adding a modern family twist to the traditional roles. These details made their Gothic wedding feel as unique and authentic as the couple themselves.
The Super Team
Photography: Ali Jay Photography
Celebrant: Tim Maguire of Celebrate People
Bride’s dress: Sophia Tolli at Hoops a Daisy
Bride’s headdress: Hysteria Machine
Bride’s shoes: Kurt Geiger, Michael Kors
Bridesmaid dress: JJ’s House
Cake: Liggy’s Cakes
Florist: Liberty Blooms
Groom’s trousers: Moss Bros
Discover more Scotland guides, wedding venue inspiration and real weddings from Edinburgh wedding photographer Ali Jay.
Micro Wedding Edinburgh - A Beautifully Small Wedding
Drew & Diana had planned a big wedding in June but with that on hold they decided to have a micro wedding in Edinburgh as soon as the lockdown lifted.
The beautiful thing about micro weddings is they are simple and you can enjoy the day with your absolute closest people.
June 2020
Remember when weddings were stopped and we had to hide away at home! It’s such a distant memory now.
When Drew & Diana originally got in touch they were planning a big wedding party but two days after the strict restrictions of spring 2020 were lifted for weddings, they wed in the tiniest ceremony, in a strangely silent Edinburgh with just 6 guests.
It was the weirdest wedding but so beautiful. The city chambers moved it’s registrar’s to a garden on the Royal Mile. I had to shoot from the garden next door but to be out and see a wedding was such a joy!
I remember how the chairs were meticulously spaced out for the ceremony and one of the guest’s left the garden so I could take a couple of pictures of them. Edinburgh was closed so we explored the silent streets and then they headed off and had a little picnic to celebrate.
Over the next year I watched the restrictions change, there were different rules at every wedding. Gradually people were allowed to get closer again and eventually they were allowed to dance and then I watched as people just started to forget about the virus and just get on with life as normal. Fingers crossed we don’t see anything like it again.
“Ali photographed our wedding beautifully. We were one of this few people to get married just after the Covid restrictions were lifted.
She took a tiny group of 8 people and directed us into the most perfect places and positions for the most fun, sweet, touching photos.
She was an absolute joy to have around and work with. She was particularly good with our 8 year old twins (who can be a bit of a handful).
I would recommend Ali without hesitation, an excellent photographer and a fantastic, fun person to have around.
Look no further. You've found the right person.”
- Drew & Diana Long
Discover more Scotland guides, wedding venue inspiration and real weddings from Edinburgh wedding photographer Ali Jay.
Weddings by The Sea - A Secret Wedding in South Queensferry
Nikki and Ian met at school when they were 5 years old and decades later they secretly eloped to South Queensferry for their wedding.
Nikki and Ian met at school when they were 5 years old and decades later they secretly eloped to South Queensferry for their wedding. From our initial conversation I could hear how passionate Nikki was to marry Ian and to have their wedding in South Queensferry, a place which she just loves.
South Queensferry Registrars Office
Nikki and Ian eloped from South Shields to have their secret ceremony at the Registry Office in the beautiful coastal town which is dwarfed by the magnificent Forth Bridge. Nikki’s only photo request was to make sure I got the bridge in the background of the pictures as she loves how it dominates the views.
The ceremony was so short and sweet and with no guests the second registrar and I stepped in to witness the marriage. Nikki says she’s loved Ian since she was 5 years old and they’ve been together for the last 14 years so they decided they just wanted to get married without much fuss. They kept their plans secret, even from their children and decided to just surprise them by sending a picture.
After the ceremony we explored some of their favourite areas of the town to capture some photographs. I’ve spent a lot of time in South Queensferry and I’d never been down Harbour Lane before, this cute little lane was introduced to me by Nikki and I can see why she loves it.
The Boathouse
After a lovely walk around South Queensferry we went to the Boathouse for a little mini wedding reception. I joined them for a wee celebratory drink before leaving them to enjoy the rest of their trip to Scotland and some fun in the Edinburgh Festival.
Discover more Scotland guides, wedding venue inspiration and real weddings from Edinburgh wedding photographer Ali Jay.
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