Max and Whittney travelled from America to marry at Drumtochty Castle in Aberdeenshire, with 40 of their closest friends and family. All the guests were able to stay in the castle and enjoy exploring the estate, with its rich heritage and stunning architecture. I was joined by videographer team Alex and Kinga of 'We Are One wedding films' who were great to work alongside and shared my vision and approach.
Whittney and her family got ready in the bridal suite, while the groom and his friends enjoyed a morning of country sports such as clay pigeon shooting on the estate. I captured some beautiful sentimental moments such as Whittney’s dad giving her a family heirloom ring, and her siblings’ reactions to seeing her all dressed up and ready to walk down the aisle.
Max and Whittney married outside in the courtyard, where the adage of Scotland’s weather giving 4 seasons in one day really did ring true! They exchanged handwritten personal vows and did a handfasting as part of their meaningful humanist service and a little drizzle certainly didn’t dampen their spirits. Their smiles were radiant and they really brought the energy as they cheered their way down the aisle as a newly married couple!
After the ceremony, everyone enjoyed the drinks reception in the many regal reception rooms while I took group photographs outside! I love taking natural, candid pictures that really capture character and emotion, so I always make sure that the first twenty minutes after the ceremony are just spent mingling with guests and sharing the wonderful ‘we just got married’ feeling.
Later on the couple went for a contemplative moment of prayer and blessing in the historic chapel (St Palladius church) just down the lane. We then wandered through the woodland, down to the lake and took pictures on the stunning pier and bridge as well as at the little lodge and of course inside the castle itself. I adored the grand staircase and huge stained glass windows!
Max and Whittney made joyful entrances into the majestic castle ballroom for their dinner, with an ornate ceiling with chandeliers and and huge windows letting in plenty of natural daylight. Emotional speeches preceded a delicious meal, then the couple kept their guests entertained with a giant themed wordsearch (the clue answers were a test of how well they knew the couple!) and a joint toast as newlyweds.
After cutting their cake and a great first dance, they wowed their guests with a really fun surprise choreographed father-and-daughter dance. Whittney was a very enthusiastic dancer and when her dress strap gave way, I was there with safety pins to save the day and make sure she didn’t have to miss a thing!
Whether it be your dream to reconnect with family heritage and retrace your roots, or simply to escape to the land of fairytales, Scotland is a destination renowned worldwide for being one of the most romantic places to get married. I adored working in this magical setting and would love to return to Drumtochty Castle. If you’re planning a wedding here, please do get in touch!
The couple said: “We absolutely adore your work and are so thrilled that you captured all these precious moments for us. Your work was phenomenal and we couldn't have been more pleased with the pictures you provided. Thank you so much for everything!”
Other suppliers involved:
Videographers: One Shot Films
Makeup: Julia Stronach
Humanist: Neil Mellis
Cake: Simple Wish Cakes
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