This couple’s low-key registry office ceremony segued into a high-voltage party at a cool city venue, proving that you really can have the best of both worlds
Caral and Keith’s Edinburgh registry office wedding at Edinburgh City Chambers proved that a simple ceremony can still lead to an unforgettable celebration.
The couple made things official at the city’s iconic registry office before heading to Virgin Hotels Edinburgh for a big party reception bursting with energy, style and love.
Wedding highlights at a glance
Ceremony venue | Edinburgh City Chambers
Reception venue | Virgin Hotels Edinburgh
Date | 4th May 2025
Photography | Steph Nicol Photography
Theme and decor | Contemporary chic with bride in a puff-sleeve white jacket dress and groom in a double-breasted grey suit
Guests | 46 for the ceremony with 100 more joining for the reception
Ceremony | Civil registry office ceremony
Entertainment | Wedding DJ Miss Mixtape
Read on for the full story...
A swipe worth waiting for
Their story began long before the apps. “Keith used to pop into a pub I occasionally worked in,” recalls Caral. “I actually asked other staff to serve him because I was too embarrassed. So I couldn’t believe my luck when we matched on Tinder!”
Seven years, a home and a dog later, the pair jetted off to Rhodes in 2024, where Keith popped the question. “I accidentally spotted the ring in his rucksack before the flight,” admits Caral. “Every day I waited, dressed up and ready – and finally, on the second-last night, he proposed at the marina in Rhodes Old Town. It was the perfect moment.”
The couple didn’t hang around once engaged. “We’d always said we didn’t fancy a long engagement, and I felt seven years was enough time to wait!” smiles Caral.
An Edinburgh City Chambers wedding ceremony
The first decision was easy: a ceremony at Edinburgh City Chambers, one of Scotland’s most popular registry offices.
“Both our families have always lived in the city centre, so we loved the traditional idea of making our marriage official there.”
Discover other registry offices and halls where you can get married at in Scotland
They kept it simple with 46 guests. “We hate a fuss and were both nervous about all eyes being on us, so we kept it modest,” says Caral. “Two of our best friends were witnesses, but we didn’t have groomsmen or bridesmaids.”
From intimate ceremony to electric celebration
For their reception, where 100 more guests joined, Caral and Keith fell for Greyfriars Hall at Virgin Hotels Edinburgh. “It’s a beautifully restored old church, and as soon as we walked through those double doors, we knew it was the one,” says Caral. “We even had private access to the roof terrace with Edinburgh Castle in the background – unreal!”
The hotel’s wedding planner, Jo, helped bring it all together. “Even now, our guests rave about the food,” adds Caral. “The atmosphere at night was incredible – everyone was on the dancefloor. You can’t plan that kind of love and energy; it just happens.”
TTKS Venue Visit: find out more about Virgin Hotels Edinburgh
Relaxed bridal style
Caral found her outfit far from the typical bridal experience. “I hated the thought of a bridal shop – the pressure, the big dresses. My friends organised a personal shopping appointment at Harvey Nichols instead. We had fizz, nibbles and a private suite – it was perfect.”
She wore a puff-sleeve Warehouse dress for the ceremony, switching into a sleek Meshki gown later. Maroon Manolo Blahniks, white Birkenstocks and Chanel earrings picked up in Paris completed her look.
The couple’s photography and wedding content creator captured it all. “We met Steph Nicol years ago and loved her candid style – I’d have moved our date if she wasn’t available!” laughs Caral. “Stem and Fern Content filmed everything so beautifully – from walking down the aisle to our confetti shower and the cheers on Victoria Street.”
What is a wedding content creator and should I book one for my wedding?
“What surprised us most was the feeling the next day,” says Caral. “Waking up as newlyweds after such an incredible day is such a rush – we felt on top of the world.”
Bride's top wedding planning tip
“Double your budget!” laughs Caral. “But seriously, stay true to yourselves. Only do what feels right for you, and you’ll have the best time.”
Wedding suppliers
Ceremony venue and officiant Edinburgh City Chambers
Reception venue and planning Virgin Hotels Edinburgh
Photography Steph Nicol Photography
Content creator Stem and Fern Content (see above)
Bride’s ceremony dress Warehouse
Bride’s evening dress Meshki
Alterations Stitch & Repair Edinburgh
Bride’s shoes Manolo Blahnik and Birkenstock
Bride’s earrings Chanel
Hair Alice Snedden Hair
Makeup Daniella Chiappa Bridal Makeup Artist
Nails Nails By Elisabeth
Brows and lashes Cosmetics by Caral (aka the bride!)
Pre-wedding beauty Combined Edinburgh
Groomswear Moss Bros
Rings Ian Gallacher Stirling
Cake Krema Bakehouse
Flowers Hidden Botanics and The Fresh Flower Man
Reception DJ Miss Mixtape
