Extreme weddings: two couples that bring new meaning to ‘taking the plunge’

These lovebirds have taken their love to dizzy new heights by choosing aerial assault course Go Ape and a bungee jump to mark their big days.

creditJuliaMolinercake
The delicious doughnut tower at Kimberley and Neil’s big day. Photo by Julia Molner

The adventurous couples themed their big days around their shared love of nature and outdoor pursuits, with unique rustic touches popping up throughout the ceremonies and receptions.

Jump (for my love)

Outdoorsy twosome Kimberley Paris and Neil Sharp took part in an adrenaline-filled bungee jump the day before their gorgeous wedding at Atholl Palace, Pitlochry.

Kimberley said: “It was very important to us to find a venue that reflected our interests and could host an intimate wedding but still had a feeling of grandeur – Atholl Palace Hotel was absolutely perfect.

“The ceremony was very personal – all about Neil and I, and our relationship. Instead of using two pieces of tartan during the hand-fasting, we used two pieces of climbing rope.”

The couple’s love of all things active could be seen in all the tiny details at the reception, from the green and cream colour palette and rustic table decorations, to the table of snaps from the couple’s outdoor escapades.

Bungee 1
Groom Neil Sharp takes on a bungee jump on the eve of his wedding

Soulmates become primates for the day

Fellow nature enthusiasts Martyn Milner and Colette Gregory headed to the tree tops of Go Ape Aberfoyle to exchange their vows, and became husband and wife 40 feet from the ground.

Martyn and Colette were the first couple ever to get hitched at Go Ape, so it was only fitting that the bride wore a custom-made dress that was specifically designed with a sensible safety harness in mind.

Go Ape Bride Zips to Wedding Ceremony
Fearless bride Colette Gregory swings into action

Martyn, his groomsman and the registrar kicked off proceedings, making their way around the Go Ape course to await the bride at the Tibetan Bridge where the ceremony took place. Their 30 guests – including the couple’s 19 month old daughter and bridesmaid, Alice – watched the proceedings from below, against the lush backdrop of Queen Elizabeth Forest Park in Loch Lomond.

The guests were good sports and joined the wedding party on the course, tackling crossings and speeding down zipwires before heading back down to earth for some bubbles and the presentation of their customised Go Ape wedding certificates.

Go Ape Bride and Groom Complete Tree Top Adventure Course after Ceremony
Just married! Martyn and Collette come back down to earth

Groom Martyn commented: “We’ve been to lots of weddings, and have always said that when it came to our own big day we wanted to do something totally different. Colette and I love the outdoors and both have a great sense of adventure, so when we thought about Go Ape, we instantly knew it would be the perfect place, especially as it has Aberfoyle’s dramatic backdrop. We weren’t sure if we’d able to make it happen so we’re so glad we could as it’s been the most amazing day.”

Colette said: “We will never forget it and I’m pretty sure our family and friends won’t either!”