Stephanie & Stuart

Stephanie and Stuart chose the stunning Forter Castle in Glenisla for their intimate wedding, eloping from Jacksonville, Florida they chose to marry in Scotland to connect with Stuarts Scottish ancestral roots!

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I had been keeping a close eye on the weather forecast in the lead up to their mid May wedding. I was delighted to see that the 30% chance of rain had been pushed back to 7pm and was confident we would get away with all the photos outside, in a location with stunning views such as these then you absolutely have to take advantage! Louise and I arrived at Forter at 1.30pm to spend some time photographing the bridal prep. Stephanie was in the capable hands of the grooms Aunt Shawn for her hair and make-up. Also present to help calm her nerves were her mom (Donna), mom in law (Leslie), friends Amanda, Kristen and Leah.

Stephanies dress was a stunning strapless mermaid style by Allure Bridal, which she’d brought from the States, to protect her from the harsh highland wind she chose a gorgeously soft faux fur shrug and “sensible” wedges to avoid sinking into the grass! Her artificial bouquet was put together by her friends – they did a beautiful job.

Whilst Shawn finished off Stephanies make-up we nipped outside to photograph the rings and caught up with Stuart and the guys. Stuart and Sam were attempting to get dressed whilst enjoying a dram or two! We ushered them along and they joined Stephanies Dad, Chris, Stuarts Dad, Ed, and his Uncle Tom in the sitting room for a couple of pre-wedding boys shots.

Following our catch up with the guys we returned to the ladies to find Stephanie in her gown and just the finishing touches to be done.

Stephanie and Stuart wanted to incorporate a traditional American custom into their Scottish wedding with a 1st look. This was something completely new to me so I was delighted to hear they wanted to do this. We blindfolded Stuart with a tartan scarf and left him waiting on his bride – lots of fun and giggles was had!!

With such breathtaking scenery the couple really wanted their ceremony to be held outside. The grey clouds were getting heavier and rain was definitely looming… cue umbrellas at the ready, and it wouldn’t be a proper Scottish wedding without a downpour!

Stephanie and Stuart had chosen to have a religious ceremony and were delighted when James (a friend of a friend and Pastor from Glasgow) agreed to perform their marriage blessing. Also present to pipe Stephanie down the “aisle” was local piper Stuart Wilkie, he belted out “Highland Cathedral”, it was very atmospheric if not a tad emotional!

Saying their “I do’s in the rain”, they may have been wet and cold but that didn’t stop them smiling!

At this point Louise took up the role of “top caterer” and went and put the kettle on so everyone could have a warm drink by the fire to heat them up. I used this opportunity to take some natural post-ceremony shots.

I’d like to say the sun came out to play after the rain but unfortunately that wasn’t the case, however it was dry enough to head out and do the couple shots.

Stephanie & Stuart had decided to have their wedding breakfast at the beautiful Lands of Loyal . So they got their car packed up and we all headed towards Alyth, stopping en-route to capture a few more must have shots.

We decided to make the most of the wonderful settings and all the group photos were taken in the stunning grounds at Lands of Loyal. Everyone was relaxed by this point so the group photos were a giggle. Although I must say I do think Stuart and his bud, Sam, got carried away when I told them just to act natural!

I finished things up with Stuart giving Stephanie a wee twirl on the lawn, since they weren’t having a 1st dance I thought this would be something special to capture.

As always I’d like to give a huge thank you to my fabby assistant Louise – you’re a star! Also a shoutout to other suppliers:-

I’d like to say a final thank you to the special couple, Stuart and Stephanie, for allowing me to be a part of their wonderful Scottish Wedding. I wish you a lifetime of love and laughter – and if you’re ever back in Scotland do give me a shout! xx