The sun shone down on Blair and Ewan Duncan as they tied the knot at this beautiful beachside location
Isle of Arran wedding venue The Dougarie Boathouse hosted this happy couple for a September wedding. Blair and Euan lucked out with the weather and were able to have an outdoor ceremony overlooking the beach.
Photographer Euan Robertson was on hand to capture all the details from their weekend celebrations, including beautiful flowers and incredible sunsets.
Keep reading to see the pictures and to hear more about how they made their wedding reflect them.
Blair and Ewan, now Mr & Mrs Duncan
21st September 2024
Venue | The Dougarie Boathouse, Isle of Arran
Photography | Euan Robertson Photography
Exclusive-use wedding venue with beach views
With its panoramic views and secluded beachside location, it’s easy to fall in love with The Dougarie Boathouse – and that’s exactly what happened to Blair and Ewan the minute they laid eyes on it.
“We knew we wanted to get married near the sea, preferably on a beach or at least close to one, so as soon as we saw Dougarie’s setting, we knew we had to get married there,” smiles the bride.
They were drawn to this scenic spot on Arran’s west coast for another reason too: “Blair’s grandparents lived on the island for 20 years, and it’s where we went on our first holiday together,” says Ewan.
“We were so excited for our 100 guests to share the experience with us – many even made a mini-holiday out of the weekend.”
Dougarie Boathouse wedding decor
The Boathouse’s style was a good match for their wedding theme too.
“Our chosen colour was blue, which tied in beautifully with the venue. We loved the natural wood throughout, from the floors and ceiling to the furniture and bar,” says Blair.
“The staff supplied an easel for a welcome sign, plus whisky barrels for display purposes. As this is a dry-hire venue, we had free rein to decorate as we wanted, and personalisation was a massive part of our day.”
The couple were keen to use as many local suppliers as possible, and the Boathouse team were happy to provide recommendations, including who to call on for spectacular flowers and catering.
The night before they tied the knot, Blair and Ewan stayed on different sides of the island, and both admit they calmed any pre- wedding nerves with a few drinks.
Thankfully, there were no sore heads the morning after. Ewan even managed to get up early for a sunrise swim in the sea!
Outdoor wedding ceremony on Isle of Arran
Their special day then began at 2pm at Dougarie Boathouse’s dedicated outdoor ceremony area overlooking the beach.
“We had always dreamed of getting married outside and were extremely lucky with the weather,” recalls Ewan.
“The sun came out as Blair walked down the aisle, but this made her eyes water which ran into her contact lenses and made them blurry!
"She mentioned this to Malin, the event coordinator, as we were waiting for our confetti shot after the ceremony – and Malin very quickly drove to her house to collect her own contact lens solution," says the groom.
That’s what you call going above and beyond!
“We found all of the staff to be so friendly and accommodating,” continues Ewan. “They really made our guests feel welcome.”
Wedding reception at The Dougarie Boathouse
After the drinks reception, dinner was served – a traditional three-course meal with guests sitting at long tables of 14.
“Ewan and I sat at the top table with all of our immediate family. We also had his brother piping us in to dinner, which was really special,” says Blair.
“We both loved the speeches – they were hilarious and one of the best parts of the day.”
After a delicious meal, the party got started with a ceilidh. Guests were able to take a break and soak up the unrivalled views while enjoying drinks outside.
“If you’re considering booking The Dougarie Boathouse, all we can say is go for it!” smile the couple.
“Our wedding was without a doubt the best day of our lives, and a huge part of that was down to it being held in such a spectacular venue.”
Wedding suppliers
Venue and furniture The Dougarie Boathouse, Isle of Arran
Photography Euan Robertson Photography
Celebrant Victoria Dixon, Fuze Ceremonies
Catering David Brand
Bar Joel Pomfret from Number 16
Wedding dress Bijoux Bridal
Shoes Carvela
Hair Jack Baxter
Makeup LA Makeup & Hair Design
Nails Bonnito Nails & Beauty
Groomswear MacGregor and MacDuff
Flowers Eleanor’s Flowers, Arran
Cake Made by Ewan’s aunt
Stationery Designed by Blair’s dad
Favours Tablet, made by Ewan’s mum
Table linen 88 Events
Wedding rings Mr Harold & Son
Entertainment Skara Ceilidh Band
