Innholdsfortegnelse for April-May 2025 i Tie the Knot Scotland

Giorgio Armani once said that to create something exceptional, your mind must be relentlessly focused on the smallest detail. The little things matter here, in our details issue, and while we’re broadly on board with the fashion designer’s approach, we’d encourage you to avoid tying yourself in knots obsessing over them! While a ‘shot wall’ table plan might be essential to some (p.181), others might prefer a scrumptious statement cake (p.14 and p.175). Prioritise what means the most and in turn, you’ll be rewarded with a big day that reflects your personalities. If you want to have complete creative control, a dry-hire setting allows you to finesse every single element you wish. Avoid overwhelm from the get-go with the guidance of our ‘how to plan a blank-canvas wedding’ feature (p.80).…

Of all the many planning tasks, surely none is as sweet as choosing a cake. But with so many flavours and designs out there, you really need an expert to show you the way. And expertise is exactly what you’ll find at Jappacakes, a bakery known for its stunning handmade wedding and celebration cakes. To see how the consultation and tasting process works first-hand, I headed to the shop in the centre of Lanark – and let’s just say, my sweet tooth was in for a treat. Jappacakes has grown significantly in recent years and now boasts five members of staff and three delivery drivers. It means the business can take on multiple wedding cake orders for the same date. As well as dreaming up fully bespoke creations for those…

I started shopping for my wedding dress around ten months before the big day. Jordan and I had already booked our venue in Mallorca, and while I had some decor ideas, nothing had been finalised yet. I was quite laidback about dress shopping, but friends and family kept telling me to get started, so I did – I devoted an afternoon to booking appointments at four different places all within the space of a week! My first stop was Eleganza Sposa on 15th November 2023. Bridal browsing Every time I passed the Eleganza store in Glasgow’s Bath Street, I always admired the window displays, and my cousin had a fantastic experience finding her own wedding dress there. I also knew Eleganza had the ability to customise dresses, and that really…

The hair “Making small changes to a hairstyle and adding or removing accessories as the wedding progresses can have a big impact, giving brides the chance to refresh their look throughout the celebration,” says hair extension and bridal specialist Chantal Heggie at Sóif De Lox. “This approach allows for multiple looks with minimal effort – perfect for brides craving a little versatility.” The hairstyling on the photoshoot ranged from effortlessly elegant – soft, dressed-out waves swept behind one ear for a modern twist – to a timeless French twist updo with a side parting. “For the final look, I tucked away the side parting completely, showing off model Mel’s gorgeous features and channelling full-on Audrey Hepburn vibes.” The venue: The Exchange With adaptable event spaces, a spectacular ceremony room with…

Finding the outfit you want to wear on your wedding day can be as challenging for grooms as it for brides. Where do you start? A smart suit is the traditional option in many cases; it sounds straightforward – but then you have to think about your shirt and waistcoat, not to mention figure out what colour the fabric should be. Or perhaps you’re going with a kilt – but what shoes will you wear, and how do you pick a sporran? Unless you’re already familiar with the wonderful world of occasionwear, chances are you’ll be feeling uncertain and overwhelmed. Just as well, then, that our groomswear experts are on hand to talk you through all the options – and the difference, it seems, is in the details. Shirt styles…

CAPACITY The venue welcomes a minimum of 50 guests and a maximum of 200 (160 dining; 40 evening). Indoor ceremonies tend to take place in the Stable Room, but there are other versatile options too. The walled garden is exceptional on a sunny day. WHAT’S Your hire covers many practical aspects, such as the sound/AV and lighting. A professional-grade kitchen, bar facilities and luxury loos are also provided. The wedding hire charge (from £6,050) includes a magical fairylight canopy, rustic wooden benches, dining tables and limewashed dining chairs. FOOD The Inchyra team believe high-quality food is super-important, so they ask that couples choose from six approved caterers. These range from the conventional to the imaginative, so you should be able to find the right style of food for you. ACCOMMODATION…

A winter wonder Rebecca and Ian’s winter wedding at Pratis Barns in Fife was nothing short of magical, blending seasonal charm with heartfelt moments. “Held in December, the enchanting backdrop created a cosy atmosphere,” explains Louise Walker, events manager and coordinator at the Leven venue. “Their ceremony was infused with personal touches, including live performances by close friends. From there, the celebration flowed effortlessly into the evening. The newlyweds’ first dance to ‘This Will Be (An Everlasting Love)’ was the perfect soundtrack for their new chapter together.” NOT-SO SECRET GARDEN With magical woodlands, beautiful gardens and spectacular coastline, it’s no wonder that Cambo Estate has been featured in the Scotland’s Gardens Scheme Guide to Scottish Gardens 2025. The country estate in Fife can host weddings up to 120 guests inside…

At Dalhousie Castle in East Lothian, couples are surrounded by scenic countryside and wooded valleys – creating a wedding day straight from a fairytale. Experience a true Scottish wedding at Carlowrie Castle with a piper’s welcome, Highland cows and even a signature Carlowrie whisky. South Queensferry’s Barnbougle Castle is a hidden treasure that has spectacular views over the Firth of Forth. Plus, it has a 60ft-long banqueting hall – perfect for wedding dining.…

Hidden gem The Savings Bank can host up to 225 guests and lays claim to some of the most visually striking interior architectural features in the city. Merchant City venue Citation’s iconic sandstone columns, delicately draped in fairylights, make for the perfect group photo location. From intricate cornices to grand fireplaces, every ornate detail at Kilmardinny House in Bearsden tells a story of romance and creates an idyllic wedding backdrop.…

“A few years ago Michael and I had joked about getting married in Las Vegas because it would save us any hassle,” says Emma. “But once we got engaged, we did actually start looking at venues in Scotland, particularly blank-canvas ones. We found a place we liked enough to book, even though it required a lot of DIY. But once we started contacting various suppliers, we found the price was going up and up. It wasn’t long before we said to each other, ‘Let’s just go for it and book Vegas.’ “We knew we still wanted a Scottish party, though – and when better than New Year’s Eve? We were very lucky to find that Ardoe House was available.” Emma enlisted the help of Siello Weddings & Events to plan…

Favourite ceremony addition? Having a toast to the future, whether that’s from the quaich, a shot glass or a champagne flute. I also love a good reading, such as John Cooper Clarke’s ‘I Wanna Be Yours’. It always makes me smile. Favourite ceremony song? Oh, that’s a difficult one – as an exmusic journalist who is married to a musician, my life is full of music. I’m going to say the one that I walked down the aisle to, which was ‘Time Has Told Me’ by Nick Drake. Dream celebrity wedding to officiate? I would love to be the celebrant when Lady Gaga marries Michael Polansky – maybe on a rooftop in Marrakech at sunset. That would be a stylish affair! SCAN TO SEARCH FOR CELEBRANTS ON TIE THE KNOT…

Prime petals From number of tiers to sponge fillings, decor to type of icing, every detail plays a significant role in crafting the perfect wedding cake. For Moray-based baker Katalin Urquhart of Torta by Katalin, one detail in particular has become something of a signature: flowers – specifically, edible flowers. When it comes to using flowers in and on food, specialist products are required. Living up in the Highlands, the access Katalin has to these locally may be limited (many of her pressed edible blooms are shipped from England) – but her creativity is anything but. All of Katalin’s cakes are one-of-a-kind, made to order designs. “I don’t do ‘set’ cakes,” she shares. “My cakes are all unique and decorated using mainly three types of flowers from three suppliers. I…

For Caroline Smyth Bickerstaff, styling and planning weddings isn’t just a job – it’s a passion. Putting her heart and soul into creating spectacular and bespoke days for couples, the Troon-based businesswoman strives to provide the highest level of service with a truly personable approach. “I’ve always been immersed in the creative world and previously worked as a creative director in the jewellery industry,” she says. “Then, when I began planning and designing my own wedding, I discovered my true calling. Believe it or not, I registered my business while on my honeymoon! I initially ran the Creative Occasion Co alongside my full-time job, but in August 2023, I took the leap to become a full-time wedding planner and stylist, and it was definitely the right move for me.” Now,…

‘Flat lay’ details You’ve gone to a lot of effort with the little extras, so it would be a shame not to have lovely pictures of them. “Flat lays are a really nice way of documenting the couple’s special day,” says Dougi McMillan at Dougi McMillan Photography. “It gives an opportunity to do close-up pictures of the small, special details in a really creative way.” Wedding rings There are many ways to photograph your wedding rings before you put them on officially for the first time. “This is a detail that deserves a nice image, and something for the couple to frame and remember,” says Dougi. “I like to focus on the rings but give them some context. For example, in the best man’s hands, or an isolation shot with…

Life doesn’t always work out quite as you intended. Just ask the new Mr and Mrs Shum. “We met on Tinder and, after two years of dating, moved in together in 2020. Ryan proposed in 2021, and we immediately booked a wedding venue,” says Rosie. “However, we had to postpone our plans twice as I got pregnant with our first two daughters. We had a low-key legal ceremony in August 2022, but we rescheduled our wedding blessing and reception to 7th September 2024 – then I found out I was pregnant again with our third daughter! I was 17 weeks pregnant when the date rolled around, so I still feel like she was a part of our special day,” says the bride. “My favourite part of the whole day, in…

When it comes to opinions, I have plenty of them. Christmas decorations? Put them up as early as possible; life is too short to be a Scrooge. Glitter eyeshadow? Always. Any occasion. Someone didn’t wish you happy birthday? Block and delete. Okay, maybe that last one is a little harsh, but you get the gist. When it comes to the debate over whether you should give all your wedding guests a plus-one, however – well, I find myself sitting firmly on the fence. There is a general rule that the spouse, fiancé(e) or live-in partner of each guest gets a daytime invitation. But what if these are people you’ve never met before? This is one of the most important days of your life and you’re basically asking a stranger to…

OLD Old doesn’t have to mean antique or heirloom; it can be a revival of a previous trend. Case in point: 1950s-style headwear could be making a reappearance in the year ahead, suggests Stephanie Gallen from Glasgow-based Stephanie Gallen Millinery. “Bridal birdcages [like this one Stephanie created, above] are always a winner as they are glamorous and aren’t ‘hair ruiners’. If you decide to take it off, your hairstyle is usually still in place – which is not always the case with combs or hair bands from heavier veils. “This style is also very versatile and works well with many looks. It can be romantic, edgy or ‘old Hollywood’ glamorous. “They’re also appropriate for guests (not in white!) as part of a hat.” BLUE Your ‘something blue’ is thought to…

GLASGOW GODDESSES Eleganza Sposa’s latest drop of its in-house Iconica bridal collection, ‘Divina’, takes inspiration from the grace of Roman goddesses. Each gown is a “tribute to divine femininity, with silhouettes that flow like Venus’ robes and delicate floral appliqués evoking the gardens of Flora,” introduces Erin Kerr at the Glasgow Bath Street boutique – and Flora just so happens to be the name of the gorgeous gown on the left. “Luxurious pearl embellishments glisten like Juno’s celestial blessings, while soft bows add playful romance. Featuring expert corsetry to flatter every figure, the collection blends mythological elegance with modern sophistication.” LONDON LEAGUE As the label’s exclusive Scottish stockist, luxury Edinburgh boutique Rachel Scott Couture is delighted to showcase the much-anticipated Vivienne Westwood 2025 bridal collection. Already have your wedding dress…

Q. Hi Megan! Tell us about Kudos Bridal Dunfermline A. Kudos Bridal was launched in the Bruntsfield area of Edinburgh back in 2007 as a couture bridal and eveningwear business. Jackie Kelso and Michelle Scott, the owners, were inspired to set up shop after Jackie designed and made the bridal gowns and bridesmaid dresses for her own wedding and for Michelle’s, as well as for other brides too. Jackie continued designing and making for a few years before the boutique made the transition from couture to designer made-to-order gowns to better match the service our brides were looking for. As the business grew and evolved, we moved to a larger space in Edinburgh’s Morningside before expanding to Dunfermline in 2011, building a consistent reputation for quality and customer service in…

“I give you this ring as a symbol of our marriage, for today and tomorrow, and for all the days to come.” When you put it like that, it’s surprising that wedding bands often get less attention than engagement rings. Yes, your engagement ring will be flashier, no doubt with a sparkler or two, but isn’t it the wedding band that really means something? Shouldn’t we devote a little more love to it? Read on and discover how good jewellers can help you do just that. How can I make my ring personal to me? Even a classic band has thousands of variations, using different metals, widths, profiles, weights and finishes. “Small details such as tramlines, bevelled edges and textured finishes can really add interest,” says Hayley Logan, co-owner of…

The wedding planning process was my first time getting fitted for a kilt – actually, it was my first time getting fitted for anything. But there was no way I was going Photo Steph Nicol Photo to wear a suit on my wedding day. I’ve never liked suits – so much so that when my sister got married, I wore shorts! I’ve always loved the idea of wearing a kilt, and I even had one when I was a kid visiting Edinburgh. So, when my wife Morv, who’s from Aberdeen, suggested I wear a kilt, I was all in. It just felt right. Setting the Scottish scene Before visiting our venue, the Ashes Barns, we’d been very set on a summer wedding. But it was winter when we went to…

Walk into Òran Mór and you instantly feel the magic. Maybe it’s the grandeur of the stained-glass windows, or the fact that this place has hosted incredible gigs (as well as its iconic ‘A Play, A Pie and A Pint’ theatre programme). But for those in the know, it’s also one of Glasgow’s most spectacular wedding venues – a place where historic charm meets contemporary elegance. And at the heart of it all is Barry Shaw, the dedicated coordinator who helps bring every couple’s vision to life. Having previously worked in hotels, Barry was immediately drawn to Òran Mór’s uniqueness. “It’s an arts venue, not a hotel, not just a theatre or a club, and it has this amazing atmosphere,” he explains. “A lot of people don’t even realise we…

For a lot of couples, planning a wedding can feel like a daunting thought. Where do you even begin? Often, it’s not until you find the ‘key’ (which can be different for each couple) that everything else falls into place. Jaber and Robyn’s key was their venue. “We had a clear idea of what we wanted – a place with charm and character, away from the hustle of city life,” says bride Robyn. And that’s exactly what they found at Pitlochry’s beautiful Atholl Palace Hotel. In the weeks after getting engaged in April 2023, the Dundee-based couple viewed four venues, with a view to tying the knot close to home so Robyn’s grandparents could attend. Atholl Palace was just 34 miles away, and they fell in love with it immediately.…

Nestled in the lowlands of Scotland, Annandale Distillery is a truly remarkable site, a timeless venue with historic features, a romantic setting providing you with the perfect backdrop and atmosphere for your day. Here, your dream of a small, intimate wedding becomes a reality. We’ve carefully balanced our role as a working whisky distillery with our commitment to providing an adaptable venue for unforgettable experiences with your nearest and dearest. Imagine exchanging vows in the distillery’s original Kiln, raising a toast with loved ones on our cobblestone courtyard, and entering the Maltings Coffee Shop for a reception filled with laughter and special memories. Annandale Distillery has been sympathetically restored with a modern take on its historic style and finished with bespoke handcrafted décor. Our distillery team work to make your…

PHOTOGRAPHER, STEPH NICOL “I’d seen the trend online and had fallen in love with it – I was determined to shoot one. Coincidentally, I’d also been obsessed with Hannah’s (of What Hannah Does) sketches, so when she arrived to provide some cool evening entertainment for the Wortons’ wedding we were at, I was excited. The bride’s shoes were kicked off, an empty bottle of fizz and a little cake were gathered alongside Hannah’s finished sketch to represent the close of the party for the fab couple.” WEDDING ARTIST, WHAT HANNAH DOES “I absolutely love this photo concept!” Hannah Benson says. “I jokingly nicknamed it the ‘drunk flat lay’ as I thought it sounded fun and reflected the ‘carnage’ style of the photos. The whole layout beautifully captures the contrast between…

A must-have wedding detail for 2025 A personalised monogram on all your stationery – it’s the ultimate luxurious detail. Go-to colour palette for a timeless wedding look Whites, neutrals and a touch of gold. Favourite wedding tradition The bride’s first look with her loved ones is always such an emotional and intimate moment. It gets me every time – there’s never a dry eye! Preferred season for wedding styling That’s a tricky one – I love them all for different reasons. But if I had to choose, it would be spring. I adore that season’s florals. Big wedding or intimate elopement Intimate weddings offer the perfect opportunity to go all out with decor, without stretching your budget too thin. The element of a wedding you’d splurge on Flowers! There aren’t…

Putting your heart on the line in the world of dating is daunting – but it all paid off for Alex, who took a romantic leap of faith in 2018. “I saw Matt on one of my friend’s Instagram stories and just decided to message him! What followed was months of chatting before we actually met, and then even more months of travelling back and forth between Glasgow and Edinburgh for dates – always with a freshly baked sweet treat in hand. I joked my brownies would make him fall in love with me.” And Alex’s plan worked as, two and a half years after that first Instagram message, Scotland and Glasgow Warriors rugby player Matt got down on one knee. “Our proposal story is quite funny,” says the bride…

One of a kind: that’s how Rikki and Rea envisaged their wedding day. And, with custom-made kilts, a surprise pipe band and a six-tier wedding cake made entirely of cheese, there’s no doubt the couple’s celebrations at Neidpath Castle in the Borders truly matched that description. “We first visited the castle when we were still dating and instantly felt a connection to it,” Rea tells us. “Later, when we got engaged and started thinking about venues, Neidpath was top of our list. We love its medieval and rustic feel, and it is just such a charming and unique place.” Choosing a venue might have been a straightforward part of their journey towards marriage, but actually meeting one another had been a little bit more of an adventure. So just how…

When Declan swiped right on a dating app almost 11 years ago, he never expected his life to change forever – especially when that decision cost just 79 pence. “I was using the free version of the app, which only allowed me to match with people who were within a ten-mile radius,” he recalls. “I was about to delete it when a notification popped up asking if I’d like to upgrade. I did, and moments later I spotted Jonathan who was 11 miles away. It was fate.” To Jonathan’s complete surprise, Declan popped the question during a holiday to Las Vegas and Los Angeles in 2019 and, five years later, their love for Hollywood went on to influence the style of their Glasgow wedding. “Initially, we fell in love with…

A FLAIR FOR FLORALS For her daughter Shannon’s Kinkell Byre wedding last summer, mother-of-the-bride Arlene [above] opted for a pink floral chiffon Couture-Club collection dress from occasionwear boutique Frox of Falkirk. The bride’s choice of delicate floral lace was beautifully echoed by her mum’s soft chiffon blooms. STYLISHLY STRAPLESS If the bride-to-be opts for a strapless style, her mum might consider an off-the-shoulder design with a clever fold-over feature at the neckline, like this lovely John Charles dress (available at Falkirk occasionwear boutique Catwalk). It’ll mimic the chic, clean lines of the bride’s straight-across style, with the added bonus of a little upper arm coverage – a highly requested feature for mums’ formalwear. COLOUR CODED Tartan traditionally combines quite a handful of hues, so why not take advantage of the…

GLOVES Whether you’re channelling Old Hollywood with opera gloves or adding sheer statement sleeves for a touch of romance, this trend lets you switch up your look in an instant. STATEMENT EARRINGS If you’re keeping your dress sleek and minimal, bold earrings are the perfect way to add personality and drama. CROWNS + TIARAS For brides who want regal elegance, a crown is the ultimate finishing touch. Whether it’s a delicate vine of pearls or a full-on tiara moment, this accessory brings a sense of grandeur and instant polish. HAIR PINS Understated but impactful, hair pins can add a hint of sparkle or a floral flourish. TYING THE KNOT BOWS Romantic and playful, bows are having a major bridal moment. A sleek satin bow draped down your back adds whimsical…

Improving your haircare Every detail matters on your wedding day, especially your hair. “To achieve your dream look, start your haircare routine at least six months ahead of time,” says bridal styling and extensions specialist Chantal Heggie at Sóif De Lox in Coatbridge. “This gives you enough time to address any issues, such as damage or dryness, and allows your hair to grow healthier and stronger.” But just how do you create a haircare routine? Chantal talks us through the process: • Regular trims: Even if you’re growing your hair out, schedule a trim every eight to ten weeks to remove split ends and prevent further breakage. Healthy hair will hold a style better.• Invest in salon-quality haircare products: High-quality products are formulated with ingredients that nourish and protect your…

CAPACITY Part of the Scotsman Group, the venue has the flexibility to suit any style and size of wedding from 15 guests all the way up to 300. The Auditorium can seat 160 for a larger ceremony, while the Gallery seats 46 for a smaller ceremonies. A Fonn Mór reception can cater for 60 guests. PRICING Oran Mór offers packages for all sizes and styles of wedding. Larger weddings in the Auditorium start at £114pp, with upgrades for extra drinks and canapés. Smaller, intimate options in the Gallery start at £80pp. Special packages include ‘Dancing in the Mór Light’ (£59pp), Midweek (£104pp), and Twilight (£98pp). The new all-inclusive Clyde package (£179pp) offers premium drinks, a four-course meal, and evening buffet. Separate ceremony fees apply. FOOD AND DRINK Whether you fancy…

Mouth-watering menus House for an Art Lover has some seriously exciting news to share – and if you’re a foodie, you’re going to love it. The Charles Rennie Mackintoshdesigned venue (which can accommodate a maximum of 120 guests) has partnered up with Wild Thyme, a luxury caterer based in Perthshire. e. For new wedding bookings, there’s now two options: choose from the delicious dishes available from the in-house menu selector, or allow Wilde Thyme to cook up a storm on your big day. This approach gives couples marrying at the Glasgow venue further flexibility with varying price points, including bespoke and premium options. Total indulgence If you’re looking for the ultimate R&R treat on the lead up to your wedding (or perhaps some downtime afterwards) Gleddoch Golf & Spa Resort’s…