Fantasy romance novels inspired the new chapter of Jacqueline and Gregor’s own love story, in a Scottish wedding at Dundas Castle planned from 4,000 miles away
Jacqueline and Gregor’s Dundas Castle wedding in South Queensferry combined Scottish tradition with fantasy-novel romance.
Planned from their home in Chicago with expert help from Tartan Weddings, the transatlantic couple brought their Sarah J. Maas-inspired “romantasy” ACOTAR wedding vision to life amid dramatic florals, candlelight and castle grandeur.
Their destination celebration captured everything guests love about a Scottish castle wedding – heritage, emotion and a hint of otherworldly magic.
Wedding highlights at a glance
Wedding venue | Dundas Castle, South Queensferry
Date | 5 July 2025
Photography | The Ferros – international destination wedding photographers based in Italy
Guests | 165 for the ceremony and reception
Decor | Sarah J. Maas-inspired “romantasy” theme by Jordana Events & Weddings, blending ethereal Spring Court florals with moody Night Court tones for a dramatic castle setting
Ceremony | Non-legal outdoor ceremony officiated by a close family friend, featuring a handfasting and a whisky quaich ritual
Entertainment | String quartet playing modern classics; evening reception with choreographed first dance
Read on for the full story...
A Chicago proposal, a Scottish castle wedding
Fantasy romance novels inspired the new chapter of Jacqueline and Gregor’s love story – a Scottish wedding planned from 4,000 miles away.
“I’m American, Gregor is Scottish, and we live in Chicago, where he proposed in autumn 2023 after four incredible years together,” says Jacqueline. “As soon as we got engaged, my family were already dreaming of kilts and castles. There was never really any doubt that we’d marry in Scotland.”
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Planning a destination wedding from the USA
Organising a transatlantic celebration came with its challenges. “A quick search led us to Lisa Bauer of Tartan Weddings,” explains Jacqueline. Based in New York but originally from Glasgow, Lisa became, in the bride’s words, “so much more” than a planner.
“Lisa coordinated every detail, from sourcing vendors to managing the weekend. She was also an emotional support — always available for calls and texts.”
Their first booking was The Oysterman Events. “We hired them right away; they were such a huge hit with everyone,” smiles Jacqueline.
A fairytale setting at Dundas Castle
With Lisa’s help, the couple found the perfect venue. “We wanted that magnificent castle feel for guests travelling from the States,” says Jacqueline. “Dundas Castle had it all — gorgeous grounds, elegant interiors and enough accommodation for our close family and bridal party to stay together.”
Romantasy ACOTAR wedding: from Spring Court to Night Court
Alongside her secret Pinterest board, Jacqueline drew unexpected inspiration from Sarah J. Maas’s A Court of Thorns and Roses series. “Our ceremony was Spring Court-inspired, while the reception channelled the moodier Night Court atmosphere,” she laughs.
Jordana Events & Weddings brought the vision to life. “They took it to the next level – the flowers and décor exceeded my wildest expectations,” says Jacqueline.
A personalised non-legal ceremony
In front of 165 guests, the couple held a non-legal ceremony in the Courtyard, officiated by close friend John Yundt. “US immigration laws were changing, so we handled the paperwork back home,” explains Jacqueline. “John had married us quietly in his garden weeks earlier.”
Personal vows, a handfasting using Gregor’s tartan and fabric from Jacqueline’s mother’s dress, and a whisky-filled quaich made the moment uniquely theirs.
“There was way more whisky than expected! We were laughing so much we forgot the ring vows — it became one of the highlights.”
Choreographed first dance idea
A string quartet played ABBA’s Dancing Queen for the wedding party, while Gregor walked to Bitter Sweet Symphony. Jacqueline entered with her father to a string version of Radiohead’s Let Down.
“There’s a line that says, ‘One day I am gonna grow wings,’ and I’ve always told Gregor he is my wings,” she says. “We even plan to get matching tattoos inspired by it.”
Their first dance to Neil Young’s Harvest Moon followed weeks of lessons.
“It became our weekly date night — such a lovely memory before the wedding,” smiles Jacqueline.
Heartfelt moments and new beginnings
From exchanging letters that morning to emotional speeches later, the day overflowed with love. “Our dads’ words were so moving, and the best man’s speech still gets talked about,” she recalls.
Looking back, Jacqueline says marriage feels different in the best way. “We didn’t expect it, but being married has deepened our bond even more. We’re so excited for what’s next.”
Wedding suppliers
Wedding planner Lisa Bauer, Tartan Weddings
Venue Dundas Castle, South Queensferry
Photography The Ferros
Wedding film TLC Wedding Films
Wedding dress Lihi Hod at Bella Bianca, Chicago
Bridesmaid dresses Dessy Group
Groomswear McCalls Highlandwear
Wedding rings Daniel Henderson Jewellers
Hair and makeup AMMazing Team
Flowers, styling and decor Jordana Events and Weddings
Cake Liggy’s Cake Co.
Stationery 2Flux Stationery Studio
Bespoke bar Glasshouse Events
Catering Heritage Portfolio
Oyster shucking The Oysterman Events
DJ Dan Dewar
Reception band Gatsby Band
Ceremony and drinks reception The Quartet string quartet
Piper Roddy the Piper via Reel Time Events
Transport The Red Bus and John Mowbray Scottish Travel
Audio guest book The Original Audio Guest Book Company
Decor content creator Content by Claire
