It was my great pleasure to capture Zara and Andy's wedding in the at the stunning St Cuthbert’s Church and Waldorf Astoria Hotel (The Caledonian) in Edinburgh. We'd got to know each other with an engagement photoshoot at the Botanic Gardens, which the couple said really helped them to feel relaxed in front of the camera and look forward to having their pictures taken again on their wedding day. They also used some of the pictures in their order of service and on display in the church, which was lovely for me to see! Zara got ready in a bright and spacious suite at the hotel, with amazing views across the to the castle and the roof of the church where she would later be getting married. When she was ready, Zara invited her Dad in to see his little girl in her wedding dress for the first time. Her bridesmaids couldn't help but shed a tear at this poignant moment too; the candour of real emotion in these pictures is something I'm sure will be treasured for years to come.
I crossed the road to capture the finishing touches of Andy and his groomsmen at St Cuthbert's church, before they began to welcome their guests. The florist had created elegant displays at the font, in the dining room and as bouquets for her and her bridal party. The traditional ceremony was partly conducted by Zara's Mum, which made it all the more personal. Afterwards Zara and Andy caught a few moments alone together to soak in that just-married high, while I invited their guests to get ready for a confetti shower outside the church doors. Colourful dried petals were the perfect biodegradable option and made for some very pretty pictures! The piper then lead the wedding party across to the Waldorf Astoria hotel in ceremonial fashion, for welcome drinks and canapés.
At the Waldorf Astoria we gathered groups on the staircase for some traditional formal pictures (the ones that please the older generations!) as well as some special requests from the couple, such as the bride with all the men in kilts. I recommended Mark from North Hold videography to film their day and it was great to work alongside him as we have very compatible approaches.
As often happens at weddings, the day ran a little behind schedule, so we divided the portrait session in two, getting some quick shots indoors before dinner and planning a trip out during golden hour after dinner. We took advantage of this gorgeous evening light before sunset to cross over the road and get some beautiful portraits beside the church where they got married, with the castle in view (and the area was now completely deserted!). I really recommend that all my couples who marry in summer and autumn factor this golden hour in, as it's often the softest light of the day and lovely to pop out and spend 15 minutes alone together before the evening party begins. Zara and Andy kicked off the dancing in style, then moved onto a ceilidh to get everyone else in on the action.
Andy sent me a message that said "You should change your job title to '...and photography'! Thank you for everything else you did on the day; not just the fantastic photography but keeping the day going! Thank you so much!" I'm on hand to help you have the best day of your lives and then tell that story as it unfolds. I don't treat your wedding day as a photoshoot; I do my utmost to put you at ease, make you laugh, and showcase the most beautiful aspects of yourselves for you to remember forever.
I'm truly honoured to be chosen to be part of so many wonderful celebrations of love! If you're planning a wedding in Edinburgh, I'd love to hear from you.