This is a slightly delayed post as Carys and Greg have been on an epic honeymoon since the day after their wedding. They asked me to save this until they got back, of course I agreed… But I’ve been like a kid at Christmas waiting to get this up and on the blog! Anyway, they’re finally back so here it is…
As a wedding photographer, I often share an incredibly intimate and personal day with people I’ve only met once or twice. Yet somehow I always walk away feeling like part of the family. It’s a real privilege. Carys & Greg’s wedding was a little different though – I was already part of the family. Carys is Tina’s (my wife’s) cousin and I’ve known her and her family for years.
Balbirnie House is a gorgeous wedding venue, it’s won “Scottish Wedding Hotel of The Year” 9 times in the last 11 years. I think that says everything that needs to be said about Balbirnie House!
Carys and her bridesmaids got ready in a stunning bedroom at the front of the house, with windows over looking the driveway and the gardens to the side. It was spacious, light & airy – exactly what hair, make-up and photographers want on the morning of a wedding. Carys was relaxed and calm all morning, even when she realised she was missing her 1 year old son’s kilt socks. Luckily, Dad was to the rescue and a minor crisis was averted. I managed to pop down and see the Mum’s having their make-up done, check in on Greg getting his hair done and having “burgers & beers” with the lads too. That’s one of the best things when everyone is getting ready in the same location, I get to document more of the day and show it from both sides.
I arrived at 9am and it wasn’t long before the first cork had been popped. Champagne with Rhubarb & Ginger Gin and fresh strawberries sounds like a great way to start your wedding day to me!
Sophie, Rachel & Steph all looked absolutely stunning in their Two Birds twisted bridesmaid dresses and their hair and make-up were beautiful.
I’d slipped out to get a few shots of Greg, his best man and his pals getting ready, when there was another small crisis. Billy, an Usher, had forgotten his kilt socks. You may have noticed a pattern emerging here… I don’t normally give people advice about their wedding, other than do it your way. You only get married once, so make sure you have fun! But… If I’m lucky enough to photograph another Scottish wedding, I may add “pack your kilt socks” to the list! A quick phone call and he was on his way to pick up some new socks – another crisis averted.
I get back to the Bridal prep room and everything is still running smoothly. The sun was breaking through the clouds, the piper just below our window belts out a wee tune every time a new guest arrives… The excitement was definitely building!
A few final tweaks to hair and make-up, the rollers out of Carys’ hair and it was time to head downstairs and get married… Here’s Part Two.
// IMAGES ARCHIVED //
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