Beverley Forbes and Colin Milne
1st September 2017
Venue | Leod Castle, Strathpeffer
Photography | Karen Thorburn Photography
“It was only around two months from engagement to big day, but as we had already talked about what we might do for our wedding beforehand, we had a good idea of how it would pan out. We chose the seat of Clan Mackenzie, Leod Castle in Strathpeffer, to host our ceremony. It’s such a bewitching and atmospheric place. Even better, it was within our budget.
Our desire was to have a quiet, private wedding, so only three others were with us for the day: our children and my Mum. Unfortunately, Colin’s mum and her husband could not join us due to ill health.
Davina McCluskie, an independent celebrant and interfaith minister based on the Isle of Skye, conducted the service for us in the grounds of the castle surrounded by nature. She gave us a lovely spiritual ceremony that matched our wishes. Exchanging vows was definitely the highlight of our day. Colin was quite emotional and that made it all the more special.
I knew I wanted a renaissance/medieval-style dress, so looked online until I found a dressmaker who could create what I had in mind. Frock Follies did a fantastic job and also supplied a dress for my daughter to wear. Colin wore a Great Kilt which suited the castle setting brilliantly.
We did not have a reception. Instead we went to Jocktober, a beer festival at the Black Isle Brewery. Seeing as we were a small party, it seemed churlish to go to the expense of hiring another venue. It was a great thing to do and still allowed us to party the night away!
The first dance was unexpected and unplanned. A person who works at the brewery heard about our wedding, so unbeknown to us, had a word with one of the bands performing. Later in the evening, the singer called for us to make our way towards the stage and played a song especially for our first dance. I can’t even remember what it was!”
Top tip: “It’s very important to talk together about what you both want for the day and its also important to remember what the day is about: making the vows to each other and celebrating that.”
Dress Frock Follies
Rings The Jewellery Workshop
Cake Made by the bride
Celebrant Davina McCluskie
