Jodie and Stuart got engaged in Italy and considered marrying there, before falling for a Scottish venue. They filled their big day with touching tributes of departed loved ones
Jodie Chandler & Stuart MacLeod
18th August 2018
Venue | Raemoir House, Aberdeenshire
Photography | Firefly & Embers Photography
“We got engaged by a lake in Villa Borghese and pondered the idea of heading back to Italy to get married, but we didn’t toy with the idea for long when we realised how many stunning wedding venues were available on our doorstep in Scotland.
Our whole day was at Raemoir House in the Royal Deeside. We really liked the idea of an exclusive-use venue so we could really enjoy quality time with close family and friends over a couple of days.
We were in the marquee for the ceremony and reception and it was great to have such a bright blank canvas to play with. We had flower centrepieces, a flower wall, floral bunting, a big floral ampersand between our light-up initials, floral cake table, the bridesmaids’ dresses were floral… it was a flowery affair! It gave the marquee an elegant but inviting feel – nice, but relaxed.
We had a few details for absent relatives which we felt were really special to include. There was a picture of my grandad, a brooch which belonged to my grandma and a ring which belonged to Stuart’s granny all wired into my bouquet.
We also lit a candle for absent relatives which burned all day. At the very end of the evening, the two of us went back to the marquee once everyone had left and blew the candle out and took a minute to think about how missed our grandparents were.
We really struggle to pick highlights as we both absolutely loved the entire day! Stuart’s parents surprised us with a fireworks display which was amazing.”
Top tip: “Things do book up quite early in advance so, by all means, start planning early but don’t sweat the small stuff. Spread things out a bit so you are not overwhelmed last minute and always remember the day is about the two of you tying the knot, not anything else.”
Venue Raemoir House, Aberdeenshire
Photography Firefly & Embers Photography
Brides’ dress Badgley Mischka at Perfect Bridal Rooms
Bridesmaids’ dresses ASOS
Shoes Christian Louboutin
Celebrant Mervyn Barr at Humanist Society Scotland
Flowers Hay’s Flowers
Favours Tequila Rose and Jameson miniatures from Just Miniatures
Venue decor Harthill Hospitality, Aberdeen Wedding Shop, The Bespoke Backdrop Company, Illumin8 and EventsFX Scotland
Fireworks EventsFX Scotland
Entertainment Sam Geddes and Bahookie
Filmmaker Strawberry Wedding Films
Gift list Trailfinders
Transport Peace Coaches
Hair Sarah Jane Ironside at Salon 70
Makeup Joanne McGinley of Be You Hair & Make-up
