I photographed the first wedding after the refurbishment and building of the stunning new glass pavilion at Boturich Castle this summer and was blown away by what this exciting venue has to offer. With beautiful neutral interior, the pavilion is light and bright inside with huge windows showcasing incredible panoramic views of Loch Lomond. The original castle building is equally beautiful, with luxurious period décor and a beautiful staircase and four-poster beds.
Like all couples marrying here, Francesca and Fraser had exclusive use of the buildings and their secluded grounds. Francesca and her bridesmaids got ready in the tower of the historic castle, with hairdresser Megan Lindsay and MUA Victoria Fleeting pampering the girls to their exact specifications. I captured all the getting-ready moments as well as lots of carefully-chosen and curated details. I especially loved photographing Francesca’s reaction to a letter her fiancé had written for her to open in the morning – exchanging little notes and gifts is a lovely way of staying in touch with your partner even if you get ready apart, and it’s so special to look back and see their expressions and happy tears! Fraser and his groomsmen got ready at another site and then travelled over in a vintage campervan – a surprise organised by the bride for her groom!
While a string trio played and Fraser greeted his guests, Francesca made the final touches to her outfit. I’m always on hand to assist with doing up fiddly buttons, shoe straps and fitting veils when needed and end up doing this at the majority of weddings – I’ve seen it all so there’s no need to panic (and seriously brides: you can leave that crochet hook at home!!). The bridal party then strolled across to the Pavillion building for the very personal Humanist ceremony, which was conducted by celebrant Andy McSorley and included a beautiful acoustic guitar performance from a friend who sang in both English and Gaelic.
Afterwards the newlyweds made their entrance to their guests with a fun confetti shower on the pathway outside, then everyone mingled in the contemporary bar and enjoyed some tasty drinks and canapes. I took group photographs outside on the patio in the sunshine with incredible views of Loch Lomond and we hopped back in the campervan for some cool pictures as well.
The weather was clearly on our side, so we divided the couple’s portrait session in two, with pictures in full daylight as well as more serene moments during the evening golden hour just before the sunset.
The guests enjoyed some very funny and touching speeches before dinner. All the cuisine for the day was vegan and utterly delicious – the catering team served up a full banquet for dinner too and it was really refreshing to sample such a unique menu!
Francesca and Fraser chose The Sleekit Beasties as their band, so they could have a mix of modern songs as well as a ceilidh set, and they definitely wowed us with their lively energy! The beautiful dancefloor was full of character, with wooden beams, high ceilings and crystal chandeliers, and plenty of space for ceilidh dancing which I really enjoy photographing. I’m never afraid to get in on the action for the best shots!
