16th October 2016
Venue | Carlowrie Castle, West Lothian
Photography | Neil Thomas Douglas Photography
“We planned our big day in 12 months. The first decision we made was our venue, Carlowrie Castle. It was exclusive use with room for all of the bridal party to stay, plus it had the grandeur of a castle but with modern decor. There was no need to decorate further, it was already elegant and simple.
I wanted our wedding to be about us and everyone enjoying themselves. The emphasis was on food and drink rather than a ‘look’. I didn’t want it to look like I’d poured a Pinterest board over the day! In the end, the only colour I chose was Pantone Serenity Blue, which was one of the Colours of the Year for 2016.
I did most of the planning as James was busy with a new job, but I did give him three jobs: kilts, rings and first dance song. I asked him to keep them a surprise because I thought it’d be nice if I could get some surprises too. Our first dance is my standout moment because it all finally hit me and it was the only time I cried on the day. Luckily, our photographer Neil captured it beautifully.
Our celebrant Norrie Flower was lovely. He met us at home and talked us through the process and what was needed. He gave us the bare bones of a ceremony to help get us started, which gave us so much freedom to write the ceremony ourselves. He was warm and funny, and took the time to speak to guests after the ceremony – I can’t recommend him highly enough.
There was a lot of music at our wedding: a piper as the guests arrived, harpists for the ceremony, a pianist for the drinks reception and dinner, followed by a band for our reception. My uncle made fruit-infused vodka for our favours and I made personalised Cards Against Humanity for each table. All the questions related to me and James and the guests loved it.”
Top tip: “Go with your gut. The more opinions you get, the harder it becomes to make decisions. Be ruthless – it’s your day!”
Dress Opus Atelier
Bridesmaids’ dresses ASOS Bridal
Groomswear Ceejays Kilt Hire
Celebrant Norrie Flowers at Independent Humanist Ceremonies
Venue décor and flowers Ginger & Lime Events
Catering Wilde Thyme
Entertainment Family friends played bagpipes and harp, Alex Graham on piano and Waterfront at night
Filmmaker Piece of Time Media
Hair Stylista Motherwell
Makeup Blush Beauty
Bridal gown cleaning Wedding Dress Cleaning Scotland
