We meet Jamie Neil, a planner whose refined yet heartfelt approach is redefining what luxury looks like for modern Scottish couples
Jamie collaborated with Gloam on this decadent dining display in the ballroom of Birkhill Castle: “Every place setting, every candle, every flourish of fruit and flowers created a dining experience that felt abundant, intimate and timeless” (Photo: Luke Bell Photography)
For Jamie Neil, the founder and lead planner at NOVU Weddings & Events, seeing everything come to life on a couple’s special day – especially watching their delight in those first few moments – is a “feeling that never gets old”.
With over a decade of experience at the top end of the wedding world, he has come to believe that true luxury isn’t about excess, but about creating something thoughtful, personal and beautifully executed.
He draws inspiration from all over – including his travels around the world, the Scottish landscape, striking architecture and intricate interiors. Most of all, Jamie is a passionate believer that no two weddings should feel the same, and starts each design with the couple’s energy and story as the foundation.
Looking to host your own luxury wedding in Scotland? Jamie shares how NOVU Weddings & Events can help you plan the perfect day.
Jamie makes the final touches for Whitney and Matt’s celebration at Barnbougle Castle (Photo: We Are The James's)
Tell us about your background and how NOVU Weddings & Events was founded
After working in the wedding industry for nearly 10 years, I knew I wanted to build something that truly reflected my love for authentic, meaningful celebrations – weddings that feel like an extension of each couple’s story.
NOVU was born from that vision: to create weddings that are not only beautiful, but deeply personal and memorable for all the right reasons.
What is your wedding planning and styling approach?
I like to get to know my couples on a deeper level, discovering how they live and what inspires them, so it starts with conversation, and lots of it.
I listen closely to how they describe their vision, what emotions they want their guests to feel, and the experiences that mean the most to them.
From there, I curate and plan a celebration that feels completely aligned with who they are.
I’m equally passionate about aesthetics and organisation, so it’s always about marrying beauty with practicality.
Fraser and Ali’s celebrations were a three-day affair. The stunning Blair Castle hosted their reception, with this floral arch (by Gloam) dropping jaws before the guests had even set foot inside (Photo: Colin Ian Ross)
How do you balance wedding trends with timeless design?
I keep an eye on trends but I never let them lead the process. I prefer to interpret them subtly, in a way that feels timeless rather than fleeting.
The aim is to create something that feels fresh and modern now, but which will still be beautiful when you look back on it in years to come.
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What wedding planning services do you offer?
I offer two planning levels, Full Service and Intimate & Elopement.
The former covers everything from initial concept through to on-the-day management, while the latter is tailored for smaller, more intimate gatherings.
Full Service is the most popular option – it’s ideal for busy couples who want expert guidance and peace of mind from start to finish.
During our initial consultation, I will help you decide which level of support feels right for you, your timeline, guest count and budget.
Any standout weddings or projects that have felt quintessentially NOVU?
Yes! Hayley and Kyle’s celebration at Borthwick Castle in September 2025 was the perfect reflection of what NOVU represents: refined yet deeply personal, where every detail felt intentional and true to them.
The atmosphere was elegant but never formal, filled with warmth, laughter and heartfelt moments. Seeing everything come together so seamlessly in such a historic and romantic setting was incredibly special.
“Whitney and Matt’s wedding brief was an absolute dream! Paired-back elegance with a touch of divine luxury – it was all about understated beauty done exceptionally well,” Jamie says (Photo: We Are The James's)
Why should couples hire a wedding planner?
A planner protects your time, energy and enjoyment. Beyond the logistics, it’s about having someone who understands your vision, manages all the moving parts and ensures you actually get to enjoy your engagement and wedding day, not just manage it.
Discover more wedding planners on our dedicated supplier directory
What’s next for NOVU Weddings & Events?
I’d love to see us be recognised among the top tier of Scottish wedding planners – and perhaps even gain some global recognition along the way.
Who knows where this journey might lead! I’m passionate about continuing to evolve, refine the client experience and attract couples from all over the world who are drawn to Scotland’s beauty and authenticity.
Jamie's approach to wedding planning means working with each of his couples to design "celebrations that feel both effortless and unforgettable" (Photo: We Are The James's)
NOVU Weddings & Events' wedding favourites for 2026
Statement floral installations – they instantly transform a space and feel deeply personal.
Earthy tones inspired by the Scottish landscape – warm browns, soft neutrals and forest greens that feel natural, grounding and effortlessly elegant.
The first look – intimate, emotional and always unforgettable.
Adele – could you imagine the laugh you’d have? Plus, the entertainment would be off the scale!
Intimate elopement – there’s something so pure and intentional about it.
Photography – it’s the lasting legacy of the day that you’ll reflect on for years to come, so worth every penny. It’s a definitive splurge in my book!
Borthwick Castle, just south of Edinburgh – rich in history, beautifully restored and incredibly atmospheric.
