23rd May 2015
Venues | Canongate Kirk, Edinburgh and Winton House, East Lothian
Photography | Crofts & Kowalczyk
“We visited 17 venues around the Lothians before we came across Winton House. It fitted our criteria perfectly: beautiful imposing architecture, but with a cosy feeling and priceless artwork in every room. In particular, its stunning walled garden suited our vision of a garden party reception.
I’d always wanted to get married in a church. We chose Canongate Kirk on Edinburgh’s Royal Mile because the minister was so welcoming and engaging. What we didn’t bargain for was the number of tourists who lined up outside the Kirk to see all the men in kilts and uniform (David is an officer in the RAF)! By the time I arrived, there was a huge crowd of spectators on the street waiting to see the bride – I felt like royalty!
I tried on a lot of wedding dresses. I started to worry that I would never find ‘the one’ until I visited Kavelle Couture. Kavelle Kaur was so patient and understanding and has a great eye for helping you find the perfect dress. I had a ‘wow’ feeling as soon as I tried on the first one.
We held our very own summer garden party for the drinks reception: flower-clad enclaves hosted a gorgeous spread of antipasti; we had hay bales covered in tartan blankets to relax on; wheelbarrows filled with iced beers and rose-lined paths for guests to explore. The open lawns allowed guests to play croquet, hula hoops and football to the sound of a jazz band.
We transformed the castle dungeon into a whisky tasting room. Several single malts from varying parts of Scotland were laid out with tasting glasses so everyone could indulge. This turned out to be a huge draw among our guests.
Top tip: Create a look book to share with suppliers. We had a clear vision and having a look book made it easier for our suppliers, friends and families to help.”
Dress Kavelle Couture
Groomswear Houston Kiltmakers
Catering Appetite Direct
Film maker Jeff Wood Visuals
Stationery Platinum Graphics
Entertainment The Ritz Trio and Callanish
Transport Majestic Wedding Cars
Makeup Lauren Gollan
Hair Cheynes
