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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.
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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.
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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.
Doubletree North Queensferry | Autumn Wedding
Katie and Zara’s autumn wedding at DoubleTree North Queensferry gave me the chance to explore the village I love (and live in) to capture stunning views of the Firth of Forth, plus a special visit to the 18th-century sailor’s graveyard—perfect for their Halloween celebration.
DoubleTree North Queensferry is a brilliant spot for a big hotel wedding by the sea with its cracking views over the Firth of Forth and the Queensferry Crossing – which twinkles at night.
I live in North Queensferry, so I’m a bit biased about this location, but I also know the village inside out – from the iconic spots to the hidden gems that most visitors never find.
(I also love to shine the light on Fife as a wonderful wedding location, click the button below to explore my Fife weddings page)
That’s why I was thrilled when Katie and Zara chose DoubleTree North Queensferry for their wedding.
It gave me the chance to take them beyond the usual photo locations and create something unique and personal. There are so many spots to explore beyond the usual pier pictures.
For Katie & Zara, we went the extra mile and got access to the 18th-century sailor’s graveyard, normally locked to the public. It added a quirky, Halloween vibe to their day, and we had such a laugh exploring.
I first met Katie years ago when I photographed her mum Gaye’s wedding to Richard, so it felt extra special to now be capturing her wedding day. We had a lot of laughs during their pre-wedding shoot with their characterful dog, Lois, who’s also had his own doggy photoshoot, where we captured his cheeky character. Unfortunately, he was perhaps too cheeky to bring along to the wedding.
I love Katie and Zara’s outfits. Katie rocked a tailored burgundy suit, which added an extra autumnal pop of colour and perfectly complemented Zara’s sweetheart dress and red hair, which, in turn, perfectly complemented the red hues of the Forth Rail Bridge. I also love that they had matching hoodies to cosy up in later in the evening – a playful and personal touch that was so very them!
Their wedding, held the day before Halloween, had loads of fun, seasonal details but stayed true to their personalities—laid-back and full of life. I loved the dried flowers, which looked lovely with the blue bridesmaid dresses.
If you’re looking for a big hotel wedding venue, DoubleTree North Queensferry is a fantastic choice. With its amazing view to enjoy, it’s incredibly accessible too—just a 15-minute walk from the train station or a minute’s walk from the bus stop on the bridge. But what makes it even more special is the way the village offers countless opportunities for unique photos, whether you want to stick to the classics or find something a little different.
Katie and Zara’s day was filled with laughter, love, and a lot of fun—a perfect reflection of their relationship. It was such a privilege to be a part of it all and capture these memories for them. If you’re planning a wedding here, I’d love to show you all the best spots and help you create something truly unforgettable!
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.
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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.
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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.
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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
Sweet Summer Wedding | The Den At Culross
Jessica and Dan’s wedding at The Den in Culross was a beautiful celebration of two people from different parts of the world coming together.
Jessica and Dan’s wedding at The Den, Culross was a beautiful celebration of two people from different parts of the world coming together.
Dan is from Canada and travelled over just before the wedding. We met up the night before the wedding in the 17th century town of Culross for a few fun coupley photographs. The town’s cute streets and colourful palace are famous across the world thanks to Outlander.
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On the wedding day, we arrived at The Den which is a delightfully converted barn set amongst fields with views on the hills behind. Audrey, the owner has a brilliant eye for decor and I love how she has furnished the spaces in the Den’s multiple barns.
The sun was shining brightly as we headed in for the ceremony. Jessica and Dan’s friend conducted the ceremony for them which added a beautiful intimacy.
The speeches were proper tear jerkers, especially when Jessica’s proud granddad set everyone’s emotions going as he said how the wedding was bittersweet as the wedding would see her move to Canada and after living so close to her for so long he would miss her terribly.
After their meal, everyone cosied around the firepits with s’mores and then waved goodbye to Jessica and Dan as they walked through a wall of sparklers and then drove off into the sunset.
The Wedding Team
Caterers: Bespoke Caterers
Florist: Scottish Cut Flowers
Cake: Heather's cakes
Hair: Cheryl Doig
Makeup (Cruelty Free): Top Drawer Make up
Ghillie Dhu | A Romantic Candelit Wedding Ceremony
The dramatic candlelit hall in the Ghillie Dhu looked beautifully romantic and the perfect place for Sarina & Liam’s wedding
It’s lovely that two teachers who travel the world teaching and exploring so many place’s chose Edinburgh for their beautiful wedding. Liam is Scottish and Sarina is from Germany and they love the city.
The dramatic candlelit hall in the Ghillie Dhu looked beautifully romantic and the perfect place for their ceremony. The Ghillie Dhu has super thick curtains which they use to close off the ceremony space within the hall, it creates a moody gothic space which is just lit by the Ghillie Dhu’s ornate chandeliers and candlelit mantlepiece. It really focussed everyone’s attention on the aisle for Sarina to make a dramatic entrance.
The Ghilie Dhu has access to the private gardens in Rutland Square so the whole wedding party headed along for a drinks reception. The summer rain arrived in good Scottish style but their hardy guests happily stayed out in the gardens rather than returning to the cosy bar in the Ghilie Dhu, until it go very heavy and they conceded that heading inside would be a good idea.
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The Ghillie Dhu’s chef’s create wonderful Scottish cuisine with a modern twist which was the perfect Scottish experience for their many German guests. When the guests returned for their meal the venue felt completely transformed with the curtains pulled back, the light spilled in through the stained glass windows. When the sun got low in the sky and the rain stopped I popped out with Liam & Sarina to get some pictures in Princes’ Street Gardens and then they finished off the night by introducing their friends and family to the lively fun of a ceilidh.
The Wedding Team:
Venue: Ghillie Dhu
Caterer: Ghillie Dhu
Band: The Big Shoogle
Cake: Nice Times Bakery
Florist: Pretty Little Petals
Hair & Make-Up: Julie McGuire
Ceremony Officiant: Neil Johnston
Dress: opus61_brautmode
Stylist for bride and bridal party: Julie McGuire
Bride Preparations Venue: Waldorf Astoria Caledonian Edinburgh
The Pawfect Day | Balmule House Wedding
The heartwarming “tail” of Andrew & Emma’s “pawfect” wedding at Balmule House with their 5 month old retirever pup, Koda.
I’ve got to get this in here, this is a heartwarming tail of the pawfect wedding, sorry, cheesetastic!
Andrew and Emma embarked on a heartfelt journey to tie the knot in the enchanting landscapes of Scotland, and they didn't do it alone—Koda, their beloved 5-month-old retriever puppy, played a significant role in their joyous celebration. Like Gavin and Stacey, they had met on holiday and then had a long distance relationship between Wales and Essex.
Choosing the pretty Balmule House, set in the countryside just outside Dunfermline, as the backdrop for their intimate ceremony, Andrew and Emma opted for an elopement surrounded by their closest family members and their furry companion, Koda.
Dressed in a fetching tartan bow tie, Koda was by Andrew's side, lending a paw in the preparations and eagerly observing the ceremony with genuine canine curiosity.
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But Koda's involvement didn't stop there. Thanks to Andrew's dedication to training, Koda had mastered a charming trick called 'middle,' where he skillfully maneuvered between Andrew's legs. This endearing trick became an unexpected highlight, adding a touch of whimsy and playfulness to their group photographs and is a definite training tip for anyone planning a wedding with their pup!
Koda proudly joined in the group photographs, effortlessly becoming a cherished member of the wedding party.
Puppies get tired and after all the excitement of the group photos, Koda crashed on the sofa during the drinks reception. We left Koda to nap and headed out for some golden wedding portraits around the lovely grounds at Balmule House. After a while, the groomsmen brought Koda out to join Andrew and Emma so they could enjoy some pictures with him. Koda's lively spirit added an extra layer of joy and warmth to moment.
"Dog-friendly" weddings are becoming more common, and for good reason. Our furry friends bring so much joy, love, and happiness into our lives, so why not include them in one of the most important days of our lives? Not only do they add an element of cuteness and fun, but they also serve as a reminder of the love that we have for our pets.
Here's to Andrew and Emma, their beautiful love story, and their pawfect wedding. May their marriage be filled with many more cherished moments with Koda by their side. And to all the pet lovers out there planning their own wedding, consider making it a dog-friendly affair. Trust me, it will be a day you'll never forget.
The PAwfect Team:
Venue: Franc and his wonderful team at Balmule House
Celebrant: John Tonner from Fuze Ceremonies
Modern Pipes: by Dean Saunders
Are you Planning a wedding at Balmule House?
Get in touch today, I’d love to be part of your amazing wedding team.
Joyful Colour | Dovecot Studios Wedding
Lynsey and Mike’s colourful wedding at Dovecot Studios in the heart of Edinburgh
Lynsey & Mike love colour and music, they wanted a vibrant fun venue which was a bit different. They settled on the beautiful Dovecot galleries, a contemporary art hub and tapestry studio, originally built as a grand Victorian swimming bath where Lynsey’s mum used to swim.
Nestled right in the heart of Edinburgh the Dovecot Studios an easy central location for their friends and family to get to and just round the corner they had Edinburgh’s Old College which was the perfect place to explore for some of their photographs.
The Dovecot is a beautifully light place for a wedding and despite their wedding being in July they were conscious of Scotland’s unpredictable weather.
They knew they would have a great space even if it rained, which it did, a lot!
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Despite the weather, Lynsey and Michael ventured out to explore Old College and just as we got back in, we heard the heaven’s open and the loud patter of rain hit the roof of the Dovecot’s grand atrium.
Smugly and snugly inside, we got to explore the colourful weavers floor, which is where the old swimming pool was.
The weavers floor is a working space full of looms where you can see the tapestries taking shape.
The floor is only cleared for a very limited number of larger weddings each year and we had to be conscious of the artist’s work as we explored with Caitlin from Dovecot as our guide.
Lynsey & Michael aren’t a serious couple who want to gaze into each others eyes all the time and be all serious so we just had some fun exploring to get some photos of them together.
We enjoyed the beautiful architecture of Old College and the Dovecot, I wanted to capture lots of fun and laughter and the colour of the yarns and looms.
They finished the day with a ceilidh and band and a full dancefloor of their favourite people.
The Artistic Team
Venue: Dovecot Studios, coordinated by Caitlin
Dress: Gwenne's, Edinburgh
Kilt: Groom’s Own
Officiant: Kathleen Hood
Floristy: Save The Date Collective
Hair & Make Up: The Beauty Works
Band: Hot Date
Are you Planning a wedding at Dovecot Studios?
Get in touch today, I’d love to be part of your amazing wedding team.
University Alumni Wedding | St. Andrews
Check out Georgia & Julian's beautiful and relaxed St. Andrews wedding. It was such a privilege to capture their special day.
St. Andrews University’s most famous couple may be William and Kate but Georgia and Julian also met at the university and not being royals they could have a super fun wedding with all their mates. They had their ceremony at the exclusive St Salvator’s Chapel followed by a fun filled reception at the Old Course Hotel.
To get married at St. Salvators you have to be affiliated to the university so as alumni Georgia and Julian got to use the chapel and the adjacent quad area for their photos.
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It’s a short distance to the Old Course Hotel which is one of my favourite venues with a brilliantly attentive team, stunning views, multiple beaches and a famous mini bridge to explore for photographs.
They loved their time in St. Andrews so when it came to choosing where to get married, they wanted to bring everyone back to the town to celebrate. For many of their friends, who they’d met at University it was also a chance to have a bit of a reunion and The Old Course Hotel was the perfect setting for a very good party and bouncing ceilidh.
St. Andrews has many famous landmarks but the little cute stone Swilcan Bridge is possibly the most famous so Georgia and Julian wanted to head there for photographs, especially as they could also get their university halls and the hotel in the background. The hotel organised a car to take us along but you can easily walk there if you fancy a wander. Georgia and Julian got a lift along to the bridge and they chose the pretty hotel garden and the university quad for pictures but I would also highly recommend a trip along to the beach if you have the time!
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The Fantastic Team
Venue: The Old Course Hotel
Chapel: St. Salvator’s, St. Andrews University
Floristy: Stucio and Waow
Dress: La Novia
Hair: Sophie Butler
Make Up: Vintage Beauty Box
Ceilidh Band: Skyrie
Are you Planning a wedding at the Old Course Hotel?
Barnbougle Castle | A Unique Castle Wedding By The Sea
Barnbougle Castle is a beautiful picturesque exclusive use wedding venue near Edinburgh with panoramic views over the River Forth and an exclusive beach. Check out Louisa & Jonny’s wedding at the castle.
Louisa & Jonny chose the uniqueness of Barnbougle Castle for their wedding.
It is a relatively new venue which takes on a limited number of weddings each year.
You get exclusive use of the castle and it’s grounds which are tucked away within the beautiful Dalmeny Estate which sits on the Forth Estuary, just outside Edinburgh.
What is the history of Barnbougle Castle?
There has been something on the Barnbougle site since the 13th century. The current castle was reconstructed in the 19th century for the 5th Earl of Roseberry - who served as Prime Minister from 1894 to 1895 - to work and entertain and then it was refurbished in 2019 to become a new venue for Roseberry Venues. The castle is owned by the Earls of Roseberry. Like most castle’s is has evolved over the years from the 13th century tower house to it’s present form.
It sits on a rocky terrace projecting it out slightly into the estuary. Louisa and Jonny had a beautiful day for their wedding so chose to get married on the terrace. The terrace wraps around the castle and has panoramic views over the river and the islands in the Forth.
Hi from Ali
Thanks for visiting. For over 10 years I’ve explored and photographed amazing castles and wedding venues and Barnbougle Castle has to be one of the most beautiful castles in Scotland and I’m very excited you are considering it.
I’d love to help you, so please drop me a wee email with your plans and I’ll send you a personal email with information personalised to you and your plans.
Scottish Castle Venue Guide
I love Barnbougle but if you like to know more about castle weddings, check out my Scottish castle guide for other castles around Edinburgh?
Layout
The castle has such beautiful features including the grand stone spiral staircase which links the Scottish Library to the Banquetting Hall on the second floor and up to the third floor where there is a bedroom and access to the minstrel’s gallery above the hall.
About Wedding Photography At Barnbougle Castle
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The Scottish Library
If the weather is not so desirable you can hold your ceremony in the stunning Scottish Library on the bottom floor of the castle.
The library connects to the terraces and some smaller rooms which can be good if you need a quiet space.
Louisa and Jonny used this area for guests to enjoy drinks and to cut their cake.
Just along the corridor from the library there are some bookcases which hide the toilets and are a very fun feature.
Private Beach
There is a private beach a very short distance from the castle. We went down at sunset.
It was a beautiful private place for Louisa and Jonny to explore together and a great place to get some beautiful photos with the castle and the estuary behind.
The Banqueting Hall
On the second floor the banqueting hall with it’s stunning barrel vaulted ceiling has to be one of the most fantastic reception space’s I have seen.
I noticed guests enjoying the view from the windows which looked out over the Forth River.
The Minstrels gallery
During the reception I was able to creep up into the Minstrels gallery on the third floor which gave me a brilliant view of the whole hall and all the guests enjoying the speeches.
You could even do a speech from the gallery if you wanted something a little different.
Getting Ready
On the top floor of the castle they have a beautiful room where you can get ready if you wish to.
Unfortunately you can’t stay there over night but it would be a lovely fun place to get ready and watch your guests below enjoying the terrace and views.
There are plenty hotels nearby such as Orocco Pier or Dakota. Louisa chose to get ready at her home.
Dakota is a beautiful hotel nearby with an excellent restaurant and cocktail bar but when I have photographed wedding prep there the bride has asked to use a lovely bar area near the entrance of the hotel for their hair and make up as the rooms are very very dark. This is always something worth thinking about as your hair and make up team will struggle in a dark environment.
Orocco Pier is located within the old village of South Queensferry and is a beautiful place to stay with fantastic staff, delicious food and great cocktails.
How do I get to Barnbougle Castle?
Barnbougle sits just to the north of Edinburgh between Cramond and South Queensferry within the Dalmeny Estate which is a popular place for a nice walk. There are beautiful walks in the Dalmeny Estate and you can view Dalmeny House and visit some beaches in the estate but you will need to request permission to drive in to walk in fenced off part of the estate where Barnbougle Castle is. The Dalmeny Estate entrance is just off the B924 road to South Queensferry. One of the best ways to view the castle and it’s situation on hound point, is from the river, on one of the Inchcolm Island boat trips.
Planning Your Own Barnbougle Castle Wedding?
Get in touch today, I’d love to be part of your amazing wedding team.
Peacocks And Tennis | Wedderlie House Wedding
Eloping from Australia for their Wedderlie House Wedding, Ellie and Dom's day mixed mischievous peacocks and tennis
Living in the land of Oz, but with Ellie's family residing near the vibrant city of Edinburgh, Ellie and Dom were on a quest to find the perfect location that could bring their entire family together. Enter Wedderlie House, a place that not only offered ample on-site accommodation but also a plethora of exciting activities. And the cherry on top? It was just a stone's throw away from the lively streets of Edinburgh!
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With a squad of sport-loving friends that could rival a whole hockey team, Ellie and Dom's guests were in for a treat. From the thrilling tennis court battles to the laughter-filled games room adventures, there was no shortage of amusement. And to kick off the wedding festivities, the guys even embarked on an exhilarating clay pigeon shooting adventure.
I first crossed paths with Ellie and Dom at Ellie's twin sister's wedding back in 2019. It was an absolute delight to reunite with her wonderful family and collaborate with familiar faces once again. Trust me when I say, this dream team is one you'd definitely want by your side on your special day.
Wedderlie, being a new venue, introduced me to the dynamic team of Jamie, Kamile & Chantel. The highlight for me was the quirky and charming 'Un-Stable' bar, nestled within the old stable block. And let's not forget the mischievous peacocks, strutting around, competing to be the best-dressed guests with their majestic feathery ensembles. Talk about a true spectacle!
Blessed with sunny weather, the wedding day was simply stunning. As the evening approached, I sneaked Ellie and Dom away to explore the enchanting woodland, where they could bask in each other's company. The melodies of Luke Combs filled the air as they took a moment to contemplate their first dance. And to end the night on a high note, we all got caught up in the infectious energy of an epic ceilidh dance. I must admit, I couldn't resist joining in on the fun!
So, if you're looking to create unforgettable memories on your big day, Wedderlie House and its incredible team are ready to make your wedding dreams come true. Trust me, you won't be disappointed!
Riddles Court Wedding | Duncan & Bex's Micro Wedding
Bex & Duncan's micro wedding at Riddles Court, a hidden gem of a wedding venue, right beside the castle. A wedding full of family moments.
Duncan & Bex had the sweetest micro wedding at Riddles Court surrounded by family. When I arrived, their house was full, with cats, dogs, kids & relatives. It was magically bustling and full of smiles :-)
When everyone was ready we all jumped in taxi’s and headed to Riddles Court.
It was my first time at Riddles Court but I’ve admired it for a while. I love the stunning 16th Century architecture and the colourful orange facade.
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History & Location
The Scottish Historic Buildings Trust Scottish (SHBT) finished renovating Riddles Court in 2017 and have preserved it’s heritage which dates back to King James VI. The building was used by important people close to the king. It even held a royal banquet in 1598. It’s has a pentice stair which leads from the first floor to the second, I love this quirky, beautiful feature. Duncan & Bex enjoyed exploring it for some photographs.
Riddles Court is just off the Lawnmarket, very close Edinburgh Castle. It’s a hidden hidden gem which you only discover when you walk up Riddles Close.
The Kids
Duncan & Bex love reportage photography and asked me to just capture the fun of the day. The kids were unknowingly entertaining everyone throughout the day so it was fun watching what they were going to do next and capturing all the little interactions between them and the other guests. From Bex’s son making face’s during the vows or asking his baby cousin for some shreddies or the girls dancing in the grand Geddes room. There was so much joy in watching them.
The Spaces
Duncan and Bex chose the smaller Seton room for their ceremony. With its ornate 17th century plasterwork and cosy window booths it is the perfect place to sign the register and then have a little snuggle whilst enjoying the magical views over Diagon Alley (or you could call it Victoria Street). Riddles Court has many spaces for events. The amazing painted ceiling & panelled walls of the grand Geddes Room got the flower girls in a spin, they danced around having a little ceilidh with each other. We didn’t explore the light airy library, but both the library and the Geddes room can seat 60 guests for your ceremony and 40 for a meal.
The Kings Chamber
Duncan and Bex weren’t staying overnight but you can hire the Kings Chamber if you’re feeling regal. The chamber is a special intimate space, once used for the king to hold a dinner party, it is now a beautiful apartment.
The Royal Mile
Riddles Court is so close to the registry office at the Edinburgh City Chambers that Bex popped in to drop off their wedding certificate on her way to their wedding lunch.
I walked with Duncan and his family down the Royal Mile and loved capturing his nieces enjoying a shoulder carry. It was a beautiful moment to finish the day.
If you love Old Town Edinburgh, hit the button below and have a look at Shra & Neil’s gorgeous wedding at the City Chambers, just down from Riddles Court.
The Wedding Team
Photography: Ali Jay Photography
Ceremony Officiant: Evelyn May Cowie
Dress: Nancy Mac
Suit: Grooms Own
Wedding Coordinator: Erin, Riddles Court
Venue: Riddles Court Weddings
Duntarvie Castle Wedding - Crazy Fun Wedding
If you want a wedding full of fun, check out Laura and John’s crazy fun wedding at Duntarvie Castle, a venue with acres of space for bouncy assault courses, pinata’s in the trees, casinos and your dog :-)
Laura and John are fun & full of mischief. John is always cheekily winding Laura up and they are full of fun so their wedding had to reflect them and it had to allow them to bring along their cute pup, Wilson the spaniel.
Duntarvie Castle is a ruined castle and wedding venue near Winchburgh in West Lothian, a short distance from South Queensferry and few more miles from Edinburgh. Duntarvie was the perfect location to bring everyone together, with space for crazy bouncy castle antics, a casino extravaganza, firepits and of course Wilson.
Geoffrey Nicholsby, the current owner of Duntarvie has a famous kiltmaking business making alternative kilts which is a favourite with celebrities. They bought the castle over thirty years ago and have been working hard to restore it since. It’s been a slow job with a lot of conditions to meet and the event’s they hold at Duntarvie help fund the rebuild project.
The Castle Ruins
Going into a ruined castle on your wedding day added a little adventure to the day. Laura loved getting her photos taken, she whirled around singing ‘Gravity’ and channelling her inner Elphaba (from the musical Wicked).
Duntarvie Castle’s Event Space
It was a beautiful day but they chose to have their ceremony inside, just in case Wilson got excited by any passing pheasants. Duntarvie’s event space has some great touches which add a special feel to the space and make it so much nicer than a marquee. I love the wood flooring, the fabric canopy and the fairy lights. They all come together to add a cosy feel to the space.
DIY Wedding
A giant Loch Ness Monster bouncy assault course isn’t the normal activity in wedding attire but nearly everyone seemed to have a go. The DIY aspect of Duntarvie really appealed to Laura & John as they could make their wedding unique and bring in their own caterers so they could choose someone who would create a fantastic Coeliac friendly gluten free menu for Laura.
Pinata
I love it when couples break traditions! Opting for a cake table rather than a traditional single wedding cake meant they didn’t have a traditional cake cutting, instead they whacked a wedding cake pinata and released loads of sweets for their guests.
Chilled Day
With a pinata, a bouncy assault course, a casino and firepits everyone had a ball and loved just chilling out eating, drinking and even climbing trees. Tricia, from Duntarvie co-ordinated the day perfectly and Bespoke Catering did a fabulous job making sure everyone was well fed with amazing food.
Casino
The surprise casino was a really nice touch. They put out ‘Wilson Money’ on the wedding tables which lead to lots of conversions about why they had money with Wilson the dogs picture on. The casino was hugely popular. I love a good full wedding dancefloor but very often it’s empty as guests want to chat and socialise and this was the perfect option to add some great entertainment for the guests. They had a dancefloor as-well but a casino could be an alternative if you think your guests would prefer it. At the end of the night person with the most ‘Wilson Cash’ won a bottle of champagne.
Good Food And Fun Games | Guardswell Farm Wedding
A Guardswell farm wedding day full of good food and fun games. Guardswell Farm near Perth, with views of the River Tay was the perfect barn venue for Rory and Hannah's day.
Hannah & Rory chose Guardswell Farm for their wedding as they loved the country views and versatility of the space. It was the perfect place for them to get all their friends and family together for a massive wedding feast extravaganza.
Guardswell Farm Weddings
Guardswell Farm is set in the Angus hills, near the village of Kinnaird between Perth and Dundee and includes 150 acres of stunning countryside, four Nordic eco-cabins, a farmhouse, a farm cottage, and the main byre building. This award winning agritecture development retains the character of the old byre but has created a stunning modern event space.
The building comprises of a tall church like room called the Granary, which connects into the large open Cattle Court party space. Set away from the main party area, there is a cosy snug with sofas and a log burner. Massive doors perfectly link the Cattle Court onto the large lawn area via a covered outdoor area where there are firepits and a festoon lit woodland walk.
The accommodation at Guardswell was fantastic for Hannah and Rory who had a big bridal party team to accommodate and who wanted to just have an amazing time with all their friends eating amazing food.
Hannah’s team took over the farmhouse and the Rory’s the cottage. Their humanist ceremony, held in the Granary Room was full of personal touches with their friend’s beautiful singing filling vaulted church like room with beautiful sound.
Fun And Games
When I met Rory and Hannah they told me about all the games they had planned and their wedding didn’t disappoint. They had Hammerschlagen, giant jenga and Kubb. The Hammerschlagen was definitely the favourite and the block of wood was constantly surrounded with people laughing and whacking a hammer trying to hit a nail. I had a little try but I was not a natural Hammerschlagen player. If you fancy trying it yourself, read on for instructions on how to play.
how to play Hammerschlagen
Get a big log of wood, a hammer, nails, a good drink and a load of friends.
The object of Hammerschlagen is to be the first person to get you nail flush with the wood surface.
Assign a nail to each player.
The player must rest the end of the hammer on the log next to their nail and then they take turns to have a single swing at their nail.
The player can only use one hand and the hammer must be swung in one continuous motion.
If the player bends their nail and can’t hit it any further into the wood then they can use their turn to try to hit it from the side to attempt to straighten the nail.
The Food
Food was very important to Hannah and Rory’s plans, they chose mezze style platters for their guests to enjoy during the speeches and later they had an foodies dream grazing table with fruit, cheeses and delicious dessert options.
Bahookie
To add to the fun they had a bouncy castle and the fantastic Bahookie who got everyone on the dance floor having an amazing time as they mixed ceilidh music with chart classics like ‘Sweet Dreams Are Made Of This’
The Wedding Team
Photography: Ali Jay Photography
Band: Bahookie
Caterers: Bespoke Catering
Flowers: Wild Rose Flowers, Kilmacolm
Dress: Grace Loves Lace
Accessories: Britten Weddings
Wedding Venue: Guardswell Farm
Are you Planning a wedding at guardswell Farm?
Get in touch today, I’d love to be part of your amazing wedding team.
Stunning Indian Wedding - In Edinburgh's City Centre
Shra and Neil’s Scottish Indian wedding was an epic celebration. They had a board game cake, took the whole wedding party out for a curry, they created a new clan and had an epic ceilidh to finish the day.
Like two Carcassonne meeples, Shra & Neil’s Scottish Indian Wedding brought them together in a magical medieval city where they built something new, a new clan, the clan Senpatrick!
They mixed their Scottish and Indian cultures together with their love of gaming and ceilidh dancing to create a truly unique day. Shra merged her name ‘Sen’, Neil’s, ‘Fitzpatrick’ to create a new clan name they could share.
Wearing their gamer colours (Shra always plays red, Neil always plays green) they married in the City Chambers and then took their entire wedding party out for a curry and then back to the City Chambers for an epic ceilidh. For their first dance they did a Gay Gordons with everyone.
As super fun gamer geeks they had a cake fit for the King…of Tokyo. The cake made by the phenomenal Sweet Unique Cake Boutique is the most impressive cake I’ve ever seen, you had to look very closely to see that it wasn’t actually a stack of games.
Want to know more about my photography?
It was important to Shra and Neil that the wedding was low waste so they didn’t have flowers and table arrangements and their favours were a cute meeple photo holder created by their fabulously talented friend Renae from the Yellow Door Studio.
Shra switched from her traditional red wedding sari in the evening and chose a floaty vintage white dress perfect for whirling around on the dance floor with her amazing group of friends who were all fantastic ceilidh dancers.
The Wedding Team
Venue – Edinburgh City Chambers
Officiant – Carol Swan
Photographer – Ali Jay Photography
Hair stylist – Natasha Dalziel
Make-up artist – Renu Singh
Shra’s outfit – Vintage wedding dress from Those Were The Days
Neil’s outfit – Kilt outfit from Kinloch Anderson
Cake – Sweet Unique Cake Boutique
Musicians – Mark Neal, Fruin Ceilidh Band (previously Heeliegoleerie ceilidh band)
Meeple Photo Holders: Yellow Door Studio
Are You Planning Your Own Amazing Wedding?
Get in touch today, I’d love to be part of your amazing wedding team.
Balmule House - Country House Wedding Venue Fife
A wedding venue guide to Balmule House, the beautiful exclusive use country house boutique hotel wedding venue just outside Dunfermline.
Balmule House
Balmule House is a 500yr old mansion house which is now a country boutique hotel. It is tucked away in the beautiful countryside just 3 miles north of Dunfermline. It’s small size makes it perfect to book out for an exclusive wedding.
They offer an option to put a marquee in the garden for larger weddings (up to 500 guests) but having an intimate wedding in the house makes the most of the beautiful characterful spaces.
Country House Wedding
The house sits up on a hill surrounded by 30 acres of woodland and looks down over the countryside.
It has pretty spaces outside including a lawn, a long tree lined driveway, a walled garden and woodshed.
These spaces were brilliant to explore for photos but the inside spaces are equally as beautiful which would make it a brilliant venue for an autumn or winter wedding.
Relaxed Venue
Matt & Hannah hired the entire house for their wedding and everyone seemed so relaxed and really enjoyed just having fun all day.
It’s beautifully renovated with lots of period features which make the space feel homely.
I imagine in the winter it is super cosy as each room has a nice fireplace.
Beautiful Light Rooms
Matt & Hannah used 3 spaces within the house for their wedding.
The main reception room can accommodate up to 40 people for a wedding ceremony.
The dining room also accommodates 40 guests for a meal and the space hosts larger number for the evening reception.
For larger weddings there is the marquee option which can take up to 500 guests.
Dining Room
The south facing dining room overlooks the walled garden to the west and the fields to the south.
The bay window is a beautiful feature and brings in lots lovely light which is great for your photographs.
Normally this space is furnished with lovely sofas but it is very versatile and the management just seamlessly change the spaces to suit the required function.
I used this space for a family shoot a few years back so if you’d like to see it as a cosy seated area, click the button below.
Boutique Hotel
The house has 8 bedrooms which all have their own unique character which was a really fun feature of the hotel.
Hannah had this massive bridal suite to get ready in which was a fabulous space and had a vast impressive bathroom to match.
Pretty Spaces
I love the staircase in the house, it was a great place to capture some pictures of Hannah on her way to the ceremony.
Well Looked After!
What makes a brilliant wedding venue? It’s not just the location, space and the pretty features of the venue but the management.
Franc, the owner, seems to sincerely want the couples who choose Balmule to have an amazing time which is my main aim to.
The exclusive use means the management are just looking after you on the day and bride and grooms love this.
I’ve heard great things about how well they are treated and how lovely an experience it was.
I have seen plenty couples stressed on their wedding day because they are not so well looked after and I truly believe being able to trust your suppliers is essential. I always want my couples to feel completely comfortable and trust that I know exactly what they want and Balmule seem to be the same.
Main Hall
When you first enter the house you enter via an arched entrance porch which is a lovely place to have a welcome sign for the wedding party.
You then enter an entrance hallway which leads into the main hall. The comfy seating in the hall was a great waiting area for guests who arrived early for the ceremony, it then became a good place for mingling during the drinks reception and then Matt & Hannah used the area for their cake cutting and then dancing.
I really loved how versatile the spaces all were.
Walled Garden
The walled garden is full of cute pathways lined by box hedging. It’s a lovely place to go for a walk and enjoy a bit of time together and get some photos taken.
It’s also a nice space for your guests to enjoy or for some family photos.
The main car park sits behind the walled garden so guests can walk through the garden when they arrive which is a nice welcoming approach.
Golden Light
Matt & Hannah were married in May when the evenings are long and we went out during the golden hour to explore the grounds and get some photos as the sun was going down.
Whatever the time of year it is nice to get out the hour before sunset to catch some of the golden light.
In the winter the daylight hours are so short but when it is sunny you get low light much of the day and it is beautiful for photos.
Planning a wedding in Dunfermline?
I live in North Queensferry which is perfectly located for weddings in Fife & Edinburgh and it’s only 10 minutes from Dunfermline (I also cover weddings further afield).
If you’d like to know more, check out my weddings page and get in touch, I’m happy to answer any questions and help you with your wedding.
Find out more:-
- Wedding Information (to find out more)
- Pricing Brochure (if you’d like to get an idea of cost)
- Edinburgh Wedding Blog (for more wedding inspiration)
Read More?
I have some other guides for venues nearby, click the name if you’d like to read more:-
- The Old Course Hotel, St. Andrews
- Dunfermline Weddings & Photo Shoots
- South Queesferry Weddings
Forbes of Kingennie Wedding - A Vintage Style Wedding
The highlights from Kate and Sean’s vintage themed Forbes of Kingennie Wedding.
Vintage Vibes
What can I say about this stunning vintage themed, Forbes of Kingennie Wedding.
Well, it was super hot, fun and beautiful!
This was my first visit to Forbes of Kingennie which is set within a country resort with beautiful lakes and woodland and it was one to remember as the bride was an old friend.
Old Friends
I went to school with Kate so I had a lot of fun planning the photography with her and Sean.
6 weeks before the wedding we had a fun evening in St. Andrews, where we did an engagement shoot and had a fun time talking about life, weddings and our old school days.
On their wedding day I stayed up way too late so I could catch up with people I hadn’t seen for years.
Forbes of Kingennie
Kate and Sean looked at lots of venues before settling for the lakes and woodland backdrop of Kingennie just outside Dundee.
As soon as I looked at it, I could see why they chose it; the fishing lakes, woodland and boathouse created the most beautiful backdrop and they could also accommodate lots of people on site in the beautiful woodland lodges.
Rescue The Speech
When I arrived in the morning, Kate was getting her makeup done and her mum and bridesmaid Hayley were drying out her dad’s speech which had accidentally been soaked.
Hayley was walking around holding pieces of paper like wings while her mum used the hair dryer to try to dry them out.
Kate’s Stella York Dress
You’ve got to love a pretty dress and this Stella York wedding dress is one of the prettiest I’ve seen. The detail and cut suited Kate perfectly. We had some laughs messing around with her veil, wrapping it around Sean and trying to get it to catch in the wind.
The Guys
Sean and the groomsmen were in a lodge 5 mins from Kate’s so when they were almost ready I popped along to get some pics of them.
Ribena or Whisky?
Once they were all ready Sean gave each groomsmen a hip flask but with Sean’s teenage nephew as one of the groomsmen they had some chuckles trying to distinguish which contained the Ribena.
Looking Across The Water
The girls were in the Glen Isla lodge which had a great view across the water.
They could watch the boys walking to the venue to meet the guests and the kids loved watching the fish jumping in the water.
Favourite Photo
My favourite photo from the wedding is Kate’s bridesmaid Hayley doing up the buttons on her dress.
At school they were always laughing together and Hayley’s attempts at doing up the tiny buttons on Kate’s dress caused a lot of entertainment.
This photos reminds me of the silly things we laughed at when we were at school. In the end she managed none of the buttons and the other bridesmaids stepped in.
Buddon Burn Ceremony Room
The ceremony room has a majestic vaulted ceiling and wide doors which back onto one of the fishing lakes.
It was a super hot, sunny day so the doors were swung open and the room was decorated with beautifully simple decorations giving the perfect summer wedding vibes.
Personal Moments
Sean’s dad had sadly passed away the year before so they had a traditional quaich ceremony to celebrate his 40 years working in the whisky industry.
One of their friends also read a poem they had written as surprise for Kate and Sean.
Talented Friends & Partying
The reception was held in the Inglesmaldie events suite and was full of unusual and vintage style details.
They had a sweet geometric cake created by her bridesmaid (also called Kate) who runs Gorgeously Sweet Cake Emporium.
There were lace decorations created by our lovely mutual school friend and a previous Ali Jay bride Angela Clarke and whole load of other cute details.
Suppliers List
Photography: Ali Jay Photography
Bespoke lace decorations: Angela Clarke (check out her amazing decorations and interior design @the_upside_down_house on Instagram)
Cake: Gorgeously Sweet Cake Emporium
Dress: Stella York Dress
Venue: Forbes of Kingennie
Decor: Celebre Weddings and Events
Flowers: Forget Me Not, Dundee
Find Out More
Are you having a wedding at Forbes of Kingennie? please get in touch if you’d like more information about my wedding photography.
Read More:-
Read more about Kate and Sean’s Forbes of Kingennie wedding in ‘Tie The Knot Scotland’ magazine or check out couples photo shoots
ENGAGEMENT PHOTO SHOOTS
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
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.
