Carlowrie Castle is a truly spectacular venue, a fairytale caste nestled in the leafy countryside near Edinburgh in Scotland. It was the perfect backdrop to Rebecca & James’ blissful July wedding.
Tell us about your day; what were your expectations, how did you feel, how did it all go?
The day was better than I ever imagined it would be. From start to finish it was just perfect. I felt beautiful, the weather was stunning, everyone was there and the excitement of marrying James was overwhelming. I loved being a bride. Everywhere you looked people were having a great time. I know its a cliche but it was the best day of our lives (I double checked with him before I wrote that). I didn’t want the day to end. I had been a typical girl who always dreamed of getting married but the reality was far better. When we looked at the photos of the ceremony, James and I are laughing in every single one. It was such a happy feeling. We had a few hiccups on the day but they were so minor it didn’t worry me. We were there to get married and that was the most important thing. I love being a wife.
How did you meet and become engaged?
We met through Plenty of Fish and I’m still not sure how we ended up dating as on paper we are not compatible. I love the arts and hate the outdoors. James loves sports and can’t stand ‘arty’ people. However, we clicked right away and have embraced each other’s interests. James surprised me a couple of weeks before Valentine’s Day (and my birthday) saying he has booked a viewing at Carlowrie Castle for valentines and had provisionally booked a date for the wedding. This was my dream wedding venue. I was shocked. I had no idea he was planning this.
Where did you find inspiration for your wedding?
I’d always known what style and colours I wanted but I loved looking at Pinterest for ideas. I had lots of magazines and made various mood boards as I loved being engrossed in anything to do with weddings. Bridebook and Rock my Wedding were also helpful.
Why did you choose Carlowrie Castle?
Soon as we saw Carlowrie Castle we loved it. Outside it was a traditional fairy tale castle but inside it’s really modern and quirky. It fitted us perfectly and was an ideal size as not too big so it would look empty and not too big so people would feel cramped. We looked at couple of others but nothing came close to Carlowrie. I like dramatic and it is certainly that.
Why did to choose to have a video of your day?
Memories fade and I wanted something that would capture the day. You miss certain things as you are so busy so it was lovely to watch everyone smiling and having fun on the video and see James and I being engrossed in the moment. It’s something we can watch back and remember. The day was so special and we have it now captured for us.
What was your favourite part in your film?
Seeing everyone and everything again. Watching both the serious and funny parts of the day. I love how Rob integrated the speeches and readings to match what was happening. It takes my breath away every time I watch it.
Any tips for future Brides and Grooms?
Enjoy every moment. The engagement, the planning, the build up. Be organised. On the day I didn’t have to do anything but enjoy myself as it was all done. I could just take in the moments. But if things do go wrong don’t worry about it.
Any unexpected moments?
My dad organised a les miserables flash mob to sing One Day More. It was amazing. I’ve never been so surprised. Apart from marrying James it was my favourite part of the day.
Suppliers
Venue – Carlowrie Castle
Celebrant – Evelyn Robertson through Fuse Ceremonies
Photographer – Andrew Weild Photography
Hair & Make up – Natalie Mackenzie
DJ – Bill Garriock- Dance Away
Piper –Kenneth McBride- My Bagpiper
Flowers – Supernova Wedding Design
Bride’s Dress – Morilee from Madeline Gardner (but I had all the lace from the back and front taken off)
Bridesmaids’ Dresses – Goddiva UK
Cake – Too Good to Eat
Stationery- Cardlab Letterpress and The Whole Caboodle
Grooms/men outfits – Blackstairs Highlandwear
Any other shoutouts? – Lit Up Events for the Dance Floor and of course, Captivate Theatre for the superb Flash Mob
