After living apart for months, this happy couple returned to the bride's childhood region to tie the knot – Aberdeenshire – and had an unforgettable day with 80 of their nearest and dearest
Sherolyn and Thomas planned their wedding at Drumtochty Castle in Aberdeenshire while they were living in England and New York, respectively.
Their special day – which was captured by Ricky Baillie Photograpy – included incredible photo opportunities, a delicious meal and an unforgettable ceremony (where the bride walked down the aisle to a song from The Lord of the Rings).
Read on to discover how Sherolyn and Thomas planned their dream wedding...
Sherolyn and Thomas
3rd August 2024
Venue | Drumtochty Castle, Auchenblae
Photography | Ricky Baillie Photography
Two years on from an unbelievable engagement (at Tunnel View at Yosemite National Park during an American road trip, no less!), Sherolyn and Thomas were determined to secure a one-of-a-kind venue.
What to expect at weddings at Drumtochty Castle
The couple, who previously lived in England and now reside in New York, decided to pay homage to Sherolyn’s childhood in Aberdeenshire and fell in love with Drumtochty Castle instantly.
In fact, it was actually groom Thomas who suggested tying the knot in a castle nearby to the bride's parent’s home.
“I thought it was a really touching idea to get married in Scotland and when we viewed Drumtochty Castle, we knew right away it was the one. My parents were naturally delighted with our location choice too.
“Tamsin, the venue's assistant manager, was so welcoming and helpful. From the initial process of booking a viewing to the wedding day itself, everything at Drumtochty was seamless.
“Thomas and I also adored the surroundings and the feel of the venue. It was a dream knowing it was exclusive-use and we could have everyone and everything on-site for an entire weekend.
“Our colour scheme was white and yellow and then touches of gold throughout with the tableware and candelabras.
"We were also able to personalise the flags at the front of the castle, so we had one Scottish and one English flag to represent us.”
Planning a wedding in Scotland
With their dream venue secured, it was time to plan their special day – with the help of Tie the Knot Scotland, of course!
“Tie the Knot Scotland really helped me understand the wedding process – I always looked at their Friday Faves on Instagram (and still do!).”
Naturally, wedding planning isn’t always easy and Sherolyn and Thomas were met with a few (but rather exciting) obstacles during the planning process.
“Thomas relocated to New York for six months for an amazing work opportunity but, in all honestly, it was perfect timing because all of our suppliers were booked in (we were advised to secure them early on!).
"It was a big change being long-distance but we made sure to make every wedding decision together.
“Then, on the week of the wedding, as we were at the airport to fly to Aberdeen our videographer emailed saying he had to pull out due to a family emergency. We understood it couldn't be helped, and we were grateful he found replacement cover but it's not something you necessarily think about beforehand.”
Picking a Scottish wedding photographer
The happy couple had their heart set on one particular wedding photographer from the beginning – Ricky Baillie.
“He was actually the first supplier we booked after we had a date in place. We wanted someone who was at the top of their game and would capture the day as it unfolded.
“Looking back on our photos, it's great to see so many stunning backdrops – from the castle rooms and grounds to on top of Cairn o'Mount.”
Search some of Scotland's most talented wedding photographers
With everything firmly underway, Sherolyn and Thomas invited 80 of their nearest and dearest (including three bridesmaids and four groomsmen) to celebrate with them.
The day before, the couple had a rehearsal, followed by afternoon tea with their families in the castle.
Next, it was onto the wedding day itself, and the soon-to-be newlyweds took advantage of St Palladius Church for their ceremony – conveniently located on the grounds of the castle.
Check out this Drumtochty Castle wedding where the groom forgot the schedule!
The Lord of the Rings wedding ceremony
"My favourite moment was walking down the aisle. Thomas and I both love The Lord of the Rings, so we had a string quartet play 'Concerning Hobbits' as my dad walked me down the aisle. We also wrote our own vows.”
Before everyone hit the dancefloor, a three-course dinner (including salmon, venison and sticky toffee pudding) was served up.
“We had round tables for our guests and a sweetheart table for the two of us. One of our friends recommended it and said it was the best decision they'd made.”
Everything you need to know to plan your wedding ceremony in Scotland
Advice for newly-engaged couples
Now, nine months on from saying ‘I do’, Sherolyn and Thomas are happy to pass on some words of wisdom – stay organised.
“A joint email address and a shared drive for any documents, spreadsheets and supplier notes was super helpful.”
Supplier list
Venue, decor and catering Drumtochty Castle
Ceremony venue St Palladius Church (located on the castle grounds)
Photographer Ricky Baillie
Filmmaker KLS Wedding Films
Officiant Rev Shuna Dicks from Cults Parish Church
Wedding dress Stella York dress from Minster Bridal
Evening dress Charlotte Mills
Shoes Loeffler Randall
Jewellery Swarovski
Accessories The Bobby Pin
Bridesmaids dresses Rewritten
Mother of the bride outfit John Charles
Groomswear Reiss
Cake Jo Scrumptious Cake Design
Flowers The Flower Pavilion
Ceremony music Rosewood String Quartet
Piper Thistle Piping
Reception music Atmosphere, Lighting & Sound
Other entertainment Party Putt
Hair Sherolyn's sister-in-law, Emma
Makeup Tiffany Dawson
Spray tan Brown Sugar by Sam Milne
Frozen cocktails Rainbow Dropz
