Innholdsfortegnelse for February - March 2022 i Tie the Knot Scotland

FASHION BOUTIQUE BUZZ WHAT’S BEEN HAPPENING IN THE WORLD OF BRIDAL FASHION? NICOLE CONNER CATCHES UP WITH SCOTTISH BOUTIQUES AND DESIGNERS TO FIND OUT THE LATEST NEWS SHOWSTOPPER For blushing brides-to-be heading to The Scottish Wedding Show at the SEC in Glasgow on 19th and 20th of February, Ayrshire’s Kathleen Richmond Couture has a treat in store for you – it’ll be going to the event armed with its simply sublime GAIA Bridal gowns. Lovers of eye-catching looks are almost guaranteed to find their dream dress. We’re obsessing over the elegant Lucia gown, £POA [left]. “We will be exhibiting our new-season gowns on the catwalk and look forward to meeting everyone,” enthuses the boutique’s Kitty. You’ll find them at stand 406C, across from The Little Margarita Truck… handy! The start of…

VENUES VISITS TTKS VISITS CAMERON HOUSE With its stunning setting on Loch Lomond, the venue marries old and new to off er weddings for the modern couple, finds Olivia Simpson From the start of my stay at Cameron House, romance was in the air. Sadly, Cupid’s arrow was not flying my way (I brought my dearly beloved but decidedly platonic flatmate with me) but that little guy definitely has an outpost at the Loch Lomond venue: the very first people spoke to had got engaged on the estate the day before. I met the happy couple onboard the venue’s boat, the Celtic Warrior, during a champagne cruise on the loch. The impressive views across the water to a freshly snow-capped Ben Lomond belied the fact that we were just 45 minutes…

GLASGOW & SURROUNDING AREA, LOCH LOMOND & ARGYLL GLASGOW We married at CITATION Tracy Connor and Sean Kelly, 25th September 2021 Words by Olivia Simpson Photography by Ross Alexander Photography I think it’s fair to say that the 2020s, so far at least, have been a bust. Maybe that’s why more and more couples seem to be drawn to the decadence and glamour of the Roaring Twenties: it’s pure, stylish escapism. But the ‘modern-day Gatsby’ vibe is a look that not every couple – and not every venue – can pull off. Do it wrong and it can quickly turn gimmicky. Do it right, though, and the result is a chic, tasteful day that’s still a little playful. One couple who certainly managed to do it in style were Tracy and Sean,…

NORTH: GRAMPIAN AND THE HIGHLANDS & ISLANDS ISLE OF LEWIS We married at LEWS CASTLE Karen Macdonald and Chris Markey, 9th July 2021 Words by Olivia Simpson Photography by Del and Jayjay Wedding Photography There’s no place like home. Those five little words had the power to transport Dorothy back to Kansas – and judging by the sheer number of people who leave their grown-up lives behind and return to their hometown to tie the knot, the draw of the familiar is just as strong in real life. In the case of Karen and Chris, it’s hardly surprising: Karen grew up on the stunning Isle of Lewis and knew she wanted to marry in a castle, so the recently restored Lews Castle ticked all her boxes. “We did check out another venue…

HEN & STAG Hen & STAG Not the type to celebrate with a night on the town? Olivia Simpson lines up four alternative pre-wedding celebrations HOME COMFORTS Let’s face it: we’ve all seen far too much of our own four walls these past two years. If you’re craving a change of scene, why not whisk your mates away for a weekend at Bonnyside House near Falkirk, where there’s room for an impressive 27 people in 12 bedrooms. Inside, you’ll find a sitting room with an open fire and dining area with space for 20, but it’s the outside that sets this place apart. There’s five acres of private woods and gardens, plus a heated swimming pool, sauna, hot tub and new fire pit (marshmallows not included). Email fionabriggs@btinternet.com for more…

PHOTOGRAPHY BEHIND the LENS You’ll spend a lot of time with your photographer on the day, so it makes sense to get to know them. We asked some of Scotland’s sharpest shooters to put down the camera and step into the frame Interviews by Olivia Simpson DOUGI MCMILLAN Dougi McMillan Photography Why should a couple pick you as their photographer? First and foremost, because they love my style (I’m a creative documentary photographer); they relate to my portfolio; and it aligns with their vision for their own wedding day. I would hope we’d have a connection when we speak, and that my services fit their budget. Tell us something a couple should know about you before they book? I talk and laugh a lot! I have a laid-back personality and I’m…

REAL WEDDINGS ALL BACK TO OURS After bride Tanya held an emergency ceremony to allow her ailing grandma to attend, thoughts turned to staging the main event at her family business, Achnagairn Castle – and what a party that turned out to be, as she recounts Photography by Michael Carver Photography Roly and I had been together around 5½ years when he popped the question one evening on Hampstead Heath in May 2020. He had planned to fly us to Italy to a little B&B we had stayed at before, but that was scrapped because of lockdown. The day after we got engaged, I remember calling my grandma to tell her and she was so excited. Sadly, six months later, she was diagnosed with an aggressive brain tumour with only a…

REAL WEDDINGS LOCKED ON YOU Covid played havoc with Al and Anna’s plans, but despite the cut guestlist, their cosy and intimate autumn wedding was everything they hoped for and more, as the bride divulges… Even though Al and I had been together for over six years when he popped the question, it was still completely unexpected. We were on a local beach walk with our beloved French bulldog, Frankie, little boy Ritchie (then one) and my expectant bump when he got down on one knee. Although we initially dreamed of getting married in Italy, we ended up booking Balbirnie House at the end of February 2020. We started planning a large, traditional wedding – then lockdown struck! Al was stuck in Saudi Arabia with work and didn’t get home until…

ENTERTAINMENT BY NUMBERS Picking the right act for your wedding is as easy as one, two, three… Words by Olivia Simpson Photo: jodonaldsonphotography.com…

ENTERTAINMENT 9 ways to wow If ever there was a time to push the boat out, it’s with your wedding entertainment, and with this talented bunch, it’s never been easier to blow your guests away Compiled by Olivia Simpson Photo: abrightsidephotography.co.uk 1. AN ICONIC PIPER Whether its a Glen Coe elopement or a gathering of the clans for the wedding of the season, the skirl of the pipes is guaranteed to add drama. With CWH Piping’s standard package (which includes music at an impressive seven stages of the day, from the guests’ entrance to the happy couple taking their seats for dinner) yourentireweddingcanbe soundtracked. Upgrade to the deluxe package for an additional snare drummer and the opportunity to fight it out with your partner in a drum battle. Our money’s on the…

TRANSPORT ASK THE EXPERTS QUESTION TIME THE BEST IN THE WORLD OF WEDDING VEHICLES ANSWER YOUR QUESTIONS ON BIG DAY TRANSPORTATION. STRAP YOURSELF IN! Q: Is there a certain distance that older models of vehicle can travel? Are there other restrictions pertinent to buses? A: “Although our buses are in excellent condition, they were not built for long drives along motorways or busy A roads. We serve an area of around 30 miles in radius from Edinburgh.” The bus is able to travel wherever it can, and is able to use bus lanes for speed around the city centre. The Routemaster is a nimble vehicle, the only things that stop us are low bridges or narrow roads.” Sam Phipps, The Red Bus www.theredbus.co.uk Q: What happens if your dream car is outwith…

VENUE DECOR PLACE SETTING Make your vows even more special by transforming your ceremony space with imaginative decor. Natasha Radmehr finds out how it’s done Photo: makula.co.uk At my friend’s outdoor wedding last year, murmurings of “Oh wow, so beautiful” rippled through the crowd as we patiently waited for the (also gorgeous) bride to make an appearance. The object of our admiration? The decor. Lush foliage and blowsy roses climbed the archway beneath which the couple would marry, intertwining with dusky-pink drapery. Pillar candles flickered at the top of the aisle. Soft tartan shawls were folded neatly over chairs, ready to cocoon us if the weather took a turn. I started blubbing long before any declarations of love were made because I felt like I was on the impeccably dressed…

MARQUEES INSIDE JOB Your marquee looks the part from afar, but it’s what’s on the inside that really counts. Take inspo from some of these set-ups Compiled by Olivia Simpson Photo: eilidhrobertson.co.uk Photo: wonderfulandstrange.co.uk Photo: wonderfulandstrange.co.uk Photo: guthriescottphotos.co.uk Photo: guthriescottphotos.co.uk…

FASHION DRESS IT UP Ring? Check. Venue? Check. Now you just need something to wear! Natasha Radmehr finds out all there is to know about one of life’s most memorable shopping trips Even if you’re not the kind of gal who started a wedding scrapbook while still in nappies, you’ve probably thought about your hypothetical wedding dress before now. It’s hard not to. Whether a fleeting notion while idly scrolling through photos of a celeb’s big day on Insta, or a chat with pals over drinks at a friend’s wedding, we’ve all pondered, however briefly, what we might wear to walk down the aisle. Jumpsuit, ballgown, feather-trimmed cape… who doesn’t enjoy a game of imaginary dress-up? EXPLORE YOUR OPTIONS Already created a Pinterest board dedicated to your wedding style? Nice work…

JEWELLERY JEWELLERY ESSENTIAL OR EXTRA Whether you’re pinching the pennies or splashing the cash, Scottish jewellers have got you covered Selection by Olivia Simpson The pear-shaped diamond ring is having a moment, with stars like Sophie Turner and Bella Thorne sporting the style. Luckily, you don’t have to spend a fortune to get the look at Laings, but if you have a bigger budget, some extra stones around the central gem really amp up the shine. These diamond necklaces from Number Five Goldsmiths warrant a lingering look, with optical illusions and hidden elements that are bound to garner attention. Ian Mundie & Son’s full hoop rings strike just the right balance between classic and unexpected, giving them both longevity and personality. Dower & Hall is making an excellent case for something…

VENUES NEWS | INSPIRATION | CASE STUDIES | AREA GUIDES SUITE DREAMS The Stuart Honeymoon suite at The Torrance Hotel in East Kilbride is already booked out almost every night of the year for weddings or special occasions, but we bargain that demand is going to skyrocket After its luxurious facelift. Due to be unveiled in February 2022, the refreshed suite will feature a large bed, closet area and dressing table, all masterminded by interior-design firm Space ID. The colour palette will undergo a complete transformation, with stunning mirrors and statement lighting added to create a dreamy, chilled-out atmosphere. So far, so lovely… The pièce de résistance though? Your very own spa area. Accessed via a spiral staircase, upstairs will house a steam room, sunken spa bath, day bed, feature…

VENUES VISITS TTKS VISITS CORNHILL CASTLE Who says fairytales don’t come true? Nicole Conner visits a picturesque castle with all the ingredients for a happy-ever-after If you’re a Disney fan, you’ll be familiar with Beauty and the Beast, specifically, the moment Belle and the Prince realise they’ve fallen in love while playing in the snow outside the castle. That was in my mind when I caught my first glimpse of Cornhill Castle. Spotting the French Renaissance-style chateau emerge from the tree-lined driveway dusted in snow, I felt I was stepping into a fairytale. Determined that no midwinter frozen flurries were going to keep me away from an overnight stay at the picturesque Biggar venue, I headed down the M74 with my boyfriend. Cornhill’s tranquil riverside setting deep in the heart of the…

CENTRAL: STIRLINGSHIRE, FIFE, ANGUS & PERTHSHIRE PERTHSHIRE We married at CULDEES CASTLE ESTATE Christine Vesty and Mandy Munro, 5th October 2021 Words by Olivia Simpson Photography by Del and Jay Jay Wedding Photography It’s not always easy choosing a venue, but for some lucky couples, it all just falls into place. “Culdees was where we got engaged,” shares Mandy, who wed Christine at the newly launched Perthshire venue last autumn. It’s a popular glamping spot, but at that point hadn’t started hosting weddings. “Christine had spent months planning a surprise engagement with Tracey [Horton, who owns Culdees with partner Rob Beaton]. It was so magical – the estate’s grounds are beautiful, there are twinkling lights on the paths to the glamping pods and the castle is stunning.” After the couple got engaged,…

CEREMONIES VOW & FOREVER Weddings come in all shapes and sizes these days, but they’re all united by one essential ingredient: the vows. No clue how to write them? Natasha Radmehr finds out how to say ‘I do’ in a way that suits you Photo: photographybyemilie.co.uk Love. Honour. Obey. Most of us are cool with the first part – but the rest sounds a bit ’50s housewife, doesn’t it? These days, thankfully, you’re far more likely to hear a bride promising to tolerate her partner’s questionable choice in Netflix shows rather than making any pledges about obedience. That’s the beauty of getting married on the right side of the 21st century; there’s scope for our vows to reflect who we are and what matters to us. If you’re planning a…

PLANNING ANIMAL MAGIC From puppy love to walkies with alpacas, Beth Forsyth discovers how couples can furrily enjoy the company of four-legged friends on their wedding day Photo: caseystewartphotography.com According to a 2021 PDSA report, 24% of adults own a cat, while 26% have a dog; we are a nation of animal lovers. Once upon a time, the average fur baby would’ve been bundled off to a sitter while its humans were away getting married; now, though, having pets at weddings is positively encouraged. We’ve sniff ed out Scottish businesses to hear how they can make the animal magic happen on your big day… WAGGY TAILS ALL ROUND Many Scottish wedding venues are dog-friendly, so it’s only natural that couples are increasingly tempted to include their furry family member in…

WEDDINGS ABROAD PAID CONTENT Love ISLANDS  DREAMING OF MARRYING ABROAD? THE BEACHES AND ROMANCE OF THE SEYCHELLES ARE HARD TO BEAT Photos: Tourism Seychelles Sensual Seychelles has long been dubbed ‘the islands of love’. Home to the unique Vallée de Mai, purported by many to be the site of the original Garden of Eden, it is little wonder that lovers are inspired to take their vows and wed in this gentle and romantic atmosphere. Wedding and/or honeymoon packages are offered by several leading travel agencies and hotels to ensure that your wedding day or honeymoon will be as blissfully romantic and unique as you, in your wildest dreams, can conjure, allowing the memories of those special days to become forever emblazoned in your hearts. Whether in Seychelles for a wedding or honeymoon,…

REAL WEDDINGS ALWAYS IN MY HEART As a humanist celebrant, Joan had no shortage of real-life inspiration when it came to organising her and James’s wedding. However, the pandemic and a dodgy car boot made sure that it wasn’t plain sailing on the way to the altar, as Joan recalls… Photography by Francis J. Smith Photography James and I knew from early on in our relationship that we wanted to spend the rest of our lives together. We actually set a wedding date when on holiday in Italy and originally planned to return there to get married. The pandemic changed all that, so we decided to have our wedding in my hometown of Glasgow instead. James asked me to marry him with a Haribo ring over lockdown. When restrictions lifted,…

FILMMAKERS DOS & DON’TS Is your wedding film to be your first starring role? If so, you’re probably wondering how it all works. Just follow the script below for Oscar-worthy results you’ll want to watch again and again Words by Olivia Simpson Thinking about hiring a videographer for your wedding, but unsure where to start? No wonder: with different styles, price points and delivery times, it can be confusing. So we’ve compiled a list of essential dos and don’ts courtesy of the experts to get you on the right track. DO: SEEK OUT VIDEOS OF YOUR VENUE Once the venue is booked, you’ll be itching to work out how things might appear on your day and on film. Jamie Brown from Heritage Wedding Films recommends searching out videos of previous weddings at…

FAVOURS PLANNING FAVOURITE THINGS From cosy candles to tasty treats, there are plenty of ways to thank your guests on the big day Selection by Nicole Conner Charity Stockists on page 338 Foodie Natural Scented Keepsake LET THE FUN BE-GIN Photo: gailphotography.co.uk Gin-makers Colin and Jessica McLean [left] created Something Blue gin to celebrate their wedding in June 2018. They initially intended for it to be a limited-edition release of just 150 bottles, but the beverage, which marries the couples’ two favourite botanicals (tonka beans from Panama and buchu leaves from South Africa), has since become the craft spirit producer’s flagship tipple. Watch in wonder as its striking blue hue turns to a beautiful blush pink with the addition of tonic. Slainte!…

FOOD & DRINK DREAM MENUS Olivia Simpson asks Scottish suppliers what they’d be sipping and scoffing if they were to wed. Warning: do not read on an empty stomach… KATE’S BESPOKE CATERING’S DESERT-ISLAND WEDDING MENU “For canapés, I think I’d opt for an oyster bar set up with different garnishes, alongside some more traditional options (such as our confit-duck sausage rolls and cheese beignets), followed by a seasonal soup to counter the rich courses that follow. “I adore Scottish seafood, so my ideal main course would be a sharing platter featuring langoustines, lobster, mussels, smokies, fresh crusty bread and accompaniments. “Dessert would have to be freshly torched crème brûlée, wrapped up with a cheese course for good measure! Late-night food calls for simple fare so I would likely line up a…

FOOD & DRINK PLANNING TRENDY TASTES & TIPPLES Tuck in to these dishes and drinks that are going to be big news for the year ahead Selection by Olivia Simpson Snap. Suppliers listed on page 338…

MUMS’ STYLE Loving LABELS New to the whole occasionwear game? You’ll like our handy overview of some of the most popular brands. Read on to find out where you can get your hands on their latest creations Words by Nicole Conner FELY CAMPO THE LABEL A breath of fresh air in the world of MOB and MOG fashion, Spanish favourite Fely Campo has thrilled us once again with its latest collection, Bambu. “The strength and beauty of bamboo is the inspiration behind the designs,” explains Fely herself. “But this is more than a fashion collection – it is a statement about my view of being a woman: strong, elegant and self-assured.” BOUTIQUE VIEW With its quirky and striking designs, simple clean lines and luxurious fabrics, the Fely Campo label provides…

JEWELLERY RINGING IN THE NEW Still not actually got your engagement ring? Yet to find the right wedding band? Natasha Radmehr goes searching for gems of wisdom in the glittering world of jewellery Show of hands, please. How many of you chose (or plan to choose) your own engagement ring? And how many of you aren’t engaged yet, but have picked up this mag for hint-spiration? Judging by my friendship group, I imagine a fair few of you have had (or would like to have) a say in the design of your rock. A subtle ‘buy me this ring xoxo’ Pinterest board here, a lingering gaze in the jeweller’s window there; we all know the importance of getting the ring just right, given that we’ll be wearing it every day for…

JEWELLERY JEWELLERY NEWS Scotland’s sparkliest suppliers share their latest Compiled by Olivia Simpson IT’S A WRAP Some pandemic projects have fared better than others (when was the last time you fed that sourdough starter?), but one that’s stood the test of time is the collaboration between jeweller Sheila Fleet and artist and fellow Orcadian Kirsteen Stewart. The result is a collection of muslin scarves (£79) inspired by the natural world, shown here with the jeweller’s new Honeybee collection, prices from £51. HIDE & SEEK Number Five Goldsmiths in Perth is full of surprises. Pieces in the Mystery range feature mechanisms that allow them to move or open, revealing another stone or even a whole new look. Emotion Mystery 18ct rose gold ring with centre diamond that rotates to reveal a…

GROOMS SHARP dressed man Every girl’s crazy about them – now here’s how to actually be one Words by Natasha Radmehr There are two types of men in this world: those who make a beeline for a tailor whenever they treat themselves to fancy garms, and those who’d say the only Taylor they’ve heard of is Swift. Which one are you? If you’re the former, you’ll already know the sartorial secret I’m about to reveal. If you’re the latter, listen up. The key difference between a groom who looks incredible on his wedding day and one who looks, well, not so sharp, oft en lies not in what he’s wearing but in how he’s wearing it. The most dapper guys you know wouldn’t set foot outside the house with trousers puddled…

VENUES NEWS VENUE NEWS THE LATEST FROM ALL OUR FAVOURITE SPOTS Inspired by luxurious Scandinavian spa locations, the Bowfield Hotel & Country Club in Renfrewshire has unveiled its new indoor 16-metre swimming pool in its leisure club following a three-month refurbishment. The space features plenty of greenery and exposed brickwork to enhance the natural aesthetic, but the real star of the show is a mirrored LED ceiling which boosts the tranquil atmosphere. Lighting and colours can be adjusted to create different moods helping those taking a dip to unwind, perhaps After some busy wedding planning! www.bowfieldhotel.co.uk LOOK AROUND Pop by Edinburgh’s Riddle’s Court for a glass of bubbles at one of its upcoming venue viewings, when the A-listed merchant’s tenement on the Royal Mile will be dressed up to help…

VENUES ADVICE DREAM MAKERS We chat to the names behind events at two great wedding venues: Biggar’s Shieldhill Castle and the Royal College of Physicians of Edinburgh Photo: makula.co.uk TANI SMITH Event co-ordinator, Royal College of Physicians of Edinburgh Tell us about your job I’ve been at the Royal College of Physicians for six months, but I’d been organising weddings all over Scotland for the three years before that. My main focus is on ensuring that each couple’s requirements are not just met, but exceeded, so they have the most magical, stress-free wedding day. What do you think makes the College such a great place to get married? We are an adaptable venue on Queen Street right in the heart of Edinburgh, catering both for small (yes, elopements too!) and…

VENUES PAID CONTENT THE BALMORAL AN ICONIC VENUE HOST THE WEDDING OF YOUR DREAMS AT EDINBURGH’S MOST PRESTIGIOUS FIVE-STAR ADDRESS Period features. Timeless grandeur. Views out over the stunning, historic vista of the Scott Monument, the Old Town and Edinburgh Castle. Celebrate the happiest day of your life at The Balmoral, Edinburgh’s most prestigious wedding venue. Whether you want to hold your marriage or civil ceremony at The Balmoral, or simply celebrate with friends and family, the Balmoral team – with the help of a dedicated wedding planner, an address book of the city’s best suppliers, and a wealth of experience – can help you craft the bespoke wedding of your dreams. Choose the Sir Walter Scott Suite for a grand celebration with a red-carpet arrival, a gala-style sit-down dinner…

SOUTHWEST: LANARKSHIRE, AYRSHIRE AND DUMFRIES & GALLOWAY ISLE OF ARRAN We married at THE BOATHOUSE AT DOUGARIE Rebecca Coulthard and Graham Farrar, 4th September 2021 Words by Olivia Simpson Photography by Susie Olzen Photography It’s no surprise that Rebecca wanted to get married on her native Arran: the island has everything from mountains to sandy shores – as well a number of gorgeous wedding venues. That being said, just one beachside property caught the eye of the bride and groom: “The Boathouse at Dougarie is the only venue we visited,” says Rebecca. “I had admired the building for years, and I knew when the renovations started that it would be the perfect place for Graham and I.” The couple made a provisional booking in December 2020, confirming in March of the following…

PLANNING PLANNING NEWS We’ve got the latest from some of Scotland’s top wedding vendors and events Words by Natasha Radmehr Photo: catrionaparmenter.com SKY HIGH Got your sights set on tying the knot amid the rugged romance of the Highlands? We know just the person to help you do it. Lindsay Coleman of Wide Sky Weddings is a newly established independent wedding planner specialising in destination weddings in the Cairngorms National Park, Inverness and Moray. Having previously worked in media and marketing in London and as a venue co-ordinator, Lindsay’s got style, vision and serious organisational skills. She offers two services: full planning assistance for couples starting out and three-month co-ordination for those who need a hand with the nitty-gritty in the run-up to the big day. She’s also keen to…

PLANNING GO GREEN …and start married life with a clear conscience Words by Claire Muir Photo: catrionaparmenter.com Did you know the average wedding produces almost 15 tonnes of CO2? It’s a frightening amount (for comparison’s sake, you as an individual, produce 12 tonnes over the course of A WHOLE YEAR). With stats like this, added to the fact that lots of us are making small changes in our lives so we do less damage to the environment, it’s no surprise that many couples marrying in Scotland are carrying their values and carbon-footprint commitments through to their big day. Some are considering pre-loved gowns. Others are seeking out vegan-only menus. And plenty are doing all they can to cut out waste. So we decided it was time to check in with…

HONEYMOONS DARE TO DREAM With holidays back on the agenda, we’ve rounded up some of the most luxe destinations… Selection by Nicole Conner BAHAMAS Think ‘honeymoon destination’ and it won’t be long until the Bahamas springs to mind. The Caribbean country offers idyllic beaches and countless places to revel in newlywed bliss, from laid-back retreats like The Other Side, a stylish glamping resort where there’s little else to do but switch off and soak up tropical views, to the swanky beach-front villas of The Caerula Mar Club on the unspoiled island of South Andros. You could even go the whole hog and marry there too. www.bahamas.com HUNGARY A city break for your honeymoon doesn’t have to be strictly open-top bus tours and bum bags (although the latter are tres chic…

REAL WEDDINGS DON’T FOLLOW THE FLOCK From having two unique ceremonies in the same day to dress-shopping over Zoom, this couple got hitched on their own terms. Bride Rachael spills the tea on their wedding planning Photography by Alison White Photography Tash and I got engaged on the Millennium Bridge in London on our seven-year anniversary. Tash had commissioned a chewing-gum street-artist called Ben Wilson to create a proposal mini-painting on an old piece of chewing gum! From the bridge, we could see the parts of the city where we had lived previously, so the proposal spot had significance for us. The first wedding planning decision we made was to have the wedding close to Tash’s family home in Newtonmore. The views are amazing, with mountains and fields all around. We kept…

REAL WEDDINGS LOCAL HEROES Lara and Craig wanted their wedding to be fun, relaxed, homegrown and hopefully outdoors. They didn’t bargain on sunshine, but, for once, the Scottish weather played ball, as the bride recalls… Craig and I met over ten years ago at art school. We were in Brazil visiting friends for Hogmanay 2019 when Craig proposed in a quiet spot with a ring he handmade. The first decision we made was to get married in our native Scotland. We are both Scottish but don’t live there anymore, so we wanted to go back to our roots. The driving force behind our wedding was simple: we wanted a day with all our loved ones in one place for a drink and a dance. As long as everyone was well fed…

ENTERTAINMENT PAID CONTENT FINDING YOUR MUSICAL STYLE Distinguished harpist Meredith McCrindle reveals how to create an unforgettable and personal ceremony soundtrack Photo: tomcairnsphotography.com Msic is core to all of our celebrations, especially the most important – your wedding. Take this opportunity to use your choice of music to reflect your ‘couple style’, be it traditional, modern, unique or classical. Not sure where to begin? Then trust the input of your musician and ask for recommendations. Remember: professional musicians have played hundreds of weddings; we know what works, so let us be your guide. What I love about playing weddings is the uniqueness of each couple and helping them to develop the soundtrack for their big day. Many of my couples enjoy booking in for a private wedding consultation to allow us…

TRANSPORT TRANSPORT MATCHER Want to marry the right vehicles to your venue? This lot go together like horse and carriage. Hop in! Compiled by Nicole Conner Photo: halflightphotography.co.uk ECOSSE CLASSIC CARS AT KILMARDINNY HOUSE Choosing emissions-friendly transportation doesn’t have to mean turning down the charm, as Ecosse Classic Cars’ dinky VW Beetle shows. The fuel-efficient car is ideal for taking a bride and her father to the ceremony, or for getting the happy couple to the reception, perhaps at a city venue like Kilmardinny House in Bearsden, Glasgow. www.ecosseclassiccars.co.uk MCDADES COACHES AT LYNNHURST HOTEL So, you’re getting married at a church and heading to a venue like Johnson’s Lynnhurst Hotel afterwards for a shindig – but how do you get your guests there for a boogie? McDades’ has an impressive…

FLOWERS BLOOM TIME Wedding flowers are no mere decoration; a great deal of logistics and planning goes into them. It’s all a question of timing, finds Olivia Simpson Photo: rachelandtonie.com My dream wedding bouquet changes every week. Right now, it features sprays of gypsophila, trailing orchids and dahlias to add a punch of colour. But that’s forgetting how much I love ranunculus and peonies – and could I really have a wedding bouquet without a rose or two? The challenge of choosing your blooms is just the beginning. What happens on the morning of? How can florals be restyled throughout the day? And what can you do to help your florals last post-wed? Never fear: the experts are here to offer advice for all stages. BEFORE THE DAY As with all things…