Grampian Wedding Directory Spring/Summer 2019

HEADER

♥

1

SPRING/SUMMER 2019 Issue 41 It’s all your wedding needs Win a spa day worth £900 FREE

Share in the special day of our real life couples Plus lots of ideas, tips & temptations

41

www.grampianweddingdirectory.co.uk

The Sa

andman

2

♥

INTRODUCTION

Welcome to the

Spring/Summer issue of the

Grampian Wedding Directory With a relatively mild winter behind us and this year’s wedding season under way, what lies ahead in 2019? Well, GWD enters its 20th year (more about that in September), YWE moves to a third venue in 24 years in 2020 at TECA, and a summer like 2018 would really help those getting hitched!

For those planning for 2020, there’s lots to consider. Next year looks as busy a year for weddings, starting with the unmissable YWE at TECA from 18 to 19 January. Put simply, it’s the biggest wedding exhibition in the northeast of Scotland, at exactly the right time, with the most diverse range of suppliers, stunning fashion shows twice daily and a brand new venue… What’s not to like?

In this issue of GWD, we have two great competitions – win a spa day at Ardoe House; and fizz, dinner, bed and breakfast at Norwood Hall. Be inspired with Get the Look spreads, four real life wedding stories, and so much GWD help and advice to help you plan in print and online!

Remember the GWD website gives you the digital version of the printed issue – albeit more than 90% of you prefer print according to our latest reader survey – but do pop on to www.grampianweddingdirectory.co.uk to check out the gorgeous images galleries and handy quick links to all our advertisers.

So, to win any competition, get online to enter; share with us what you like; and enjoy what we hope will be a great summer of weddings in the months ahead!

Twenty years! Where did that time go?

Enjoy

REAL LIFE WEDDINGS

04

Scott & Craig

68

Lauren & Ross

148 Dawn & Gary

198 Neema & Scott

Produced & published by: House of Morgan, 479 North Deeside Road, Cults, Aberdeen AB15 9TJ. Production, Sales & Administration: Simon M. Morgan & Loraine Ogilvie. Writers: Judy Marshall & Claire Muir, Design: Jennifer McAdam & Shirley Aiken, 479 Design.

Printing Buxton Press, Derbyshire, UK. Enquiries for advertising & editorial contributions to: Simon or Loraine at Grampian Wedding Directory on 01224 865466; enquiries@grampian-wedding-dir.com or visit www.grampianweddingdirectory.co.uk.

The Grampian Wedding Directory is grateful to the photographers who submitted their images for us to use throughout the directory. Material submitted by advertisers is accepted in good faith. Adverts prepared on behalf of clients remain the copyright of the Publishers. Great care is taken to ensure accuracy of details but the Publisher cannot accept liability for errors or omissions. All rights reserved.

No part of this publications may be reproduced, stored in a retrieval system or transmitted in any form or by any means without the written permission of the Publisher.

www.grampianweddingdirectory.co.uk

CONTENTS

♥

3

CONTENTS 04

Getting Started 4 Cover Story 8 Planning 11 Cut Out Planner 12 Exhibitions 14 Competition 16 Hens & Stags 19 Company Profiles

20

What to Wear 20

Bridal Couture

42 Bridesmaids 46

Mums' Outfits & Occasionwear

52 Groomswear 64

Company Profiles

66

Get The Look

68

Real Life Wedding

72

Complete the Look 72 Jewellery 84 Beauty 94

Flowers

100 Company Profiles 102 Get The Look

104 Venues

104 Castles & Stately Homes 118 Venues & Marquees 122 Hotels 142 Accommodation 146 Company Profiles 148 Real Life Wedding

152

The Event 152 Get The Look 154 Ceremonies 156 Food & Drink 162 Cakes 168 Event Accessories 182 Entertainment 190 Transport 194 Company Profiles 196 Get The Look 198 Real Life Wedding

202

Recording the Day 202 Photography 220 Company Profiles 221 Competition

222

After the Event 222 What to do next 223 Mortgages & Finance 224 YWE at Teca 2020! www.grampianweddingdirectory.co.uk

Real Life

REAL LIFE WEDDING

♥

5

All the Eights All the Eights

e Bride

www.grampianweddingdirectory.co.uk

6

♥

HEADER

We picked our venue and band first as we knew this was the most important thing to have.

Then, we asked our three best men, four groomsmaids, two ushers, flower girl and pageboy if they’d be in our wedding party – and asked both our mums if they’d give us away.

We chose Maryculter House Hotel as the location was perfect. We loved the river in the background and could get married outside. And we picked the date because it was all the eights – 18.08.18.

I wanted the theme to be white and grey and, fittingly, the venue told us that it was to be revamped with a natural colour scheme by the time of our wedding. We were amazed when it was all done up – the room looked beautiful. www.grampianweddingdirectory.co.uk

HEADER

♥

7

It was practically love at first sight for Scott Wyllie and Craig Huggins, who met through a mutual friend and became a couple just two weeks later. Fast forward three years and Scott took Craig by surprise with a proposal in Blackpool, etching ‘Marry Me’ in the sand, no less! From then, they saved hard to bring the wedding of their dreams to life and, on 18 August 2018, it all came together. Scott filled us in on the big day, from the alpaca cameo and singing waiters to fondly remembering those who couldn’t be there…

We made it our own with the help of Alison from North East Events – I told her my wishes and she pulled it out of the bag, giving me the venue of my dreams. It looked outstanding.

We stayed at Maryculter the night before, each sharing a room with our best men, and the morning of the wedding was nerve-racking but went by in a flash.

Our humanist ceremony was conducted by Neil Mellis who was incredible, down to earth and wanted everything to be about us. And that it was, as we took the opportunity to include loved ones who are no longer with us. We got a canvas of my sister, Lisa, and Craig’s gran, Margaret, so they had their own chair during the service. We then lit a candle for them and, at dinner, gave

them a special spot next to the top table.

Also, I couldn’t resist surprising Craig – and all our guests – during the ceremony, so arranged for two alpacas to deliver our rings!

Afterwards, we had drinks and canapés, followed by a sit-down meal, complete with singing waiters. Our band, The Big Show, went above and beyond – they’d never done singing waiters before so we were their first. And, now, it’s something our guests can’t stop speaking about.

The Big Show made our wedding even more unforgettable as the day went on. We hadn’t wanted a band ‘just’ standing and singing, so these guys actually put on a performance and interacted with the guests – plus, they had

lots of glitter cannons going off! They were outstanding and, actually, the highlight of our wedding.

Afterwards, we had two weeks all-inclusive in Mexico, which was the most romantic and special holiday. The hotel was so luxurious, complete with our own private pool and butler! ♥ VENUE: MARYCULTER HOUSE HOTEL GROOM OUTFITS: MCCALLS HIGHLANDWEAR HAIR: SIMONE SAINT MAKE-UP: DEMI DIOR STRACHAN MOTHER-OF-THE-BRIDE OUTFIT: DEBENHAMS PHOTOGRAPHER: ABERDEENPHOTO.COM VIDEO: MADE WITH LOVE FILMS STATIONERY: PRETTY PIXEL CAKE: SIMPLE WISH CAKES FLOWERS: AZALEA FLOWERS DECOR: NORTH EAST EVENTS PIPER: NEWTONHILL PIPE BAND BAND: THE BIG SHOW OTHER ENTERTAINMENT: HIGHLAND ALPACAS, CANDY CORNER, RAINBOW DROPZ RINGS: ROX www.grampianweddingdirectory.co.uk

8

♥

GETTING STARTED

Getting Started Let’s Plan!

At GWD, we’re all about focusing on the positive, fun-filled aspects of wedding planning. But if you’re feeling more stress head than plain sailing, have a read through our responses to some of the top planning woes and let the worries simply melt away!

How long do I need to plan my wedding?

According to a recent survey by hitched.co.uk, the average time from popping the question to popping the wedding ring on is 20 months, 13 of which is spent planning.

But this is just an average and, really, there’s no perfect amount of time. For those who’re after a cost-effective wedding, a last-minute deal could be just the thing, and those looking for something small and intimate could possibly move just as quickly. In fact, the survey showed that 3% of super-organised couples pull their wedding together in just six months!

On the other hand, if you’re going for a massive celebration, marrying somewhere you don’t know so well (a destination wedding or the other half’s home town?) or just fancy basking in your engaged status for a little longer, it’s perfectly fine to set a date two, three or even more years ahead. In fact, some venues, photographers and hairdressers are booked up so far in advance that you may have to wait that long to get your A-list suppliers together on the same day! www.grampianweddingdirectory.co.uk

www.jonathanaddie.com

GETTING STARTED

♥

9

GETTING STARTED 8 PLANNING 11 CUT-OUT PLANNER 12 EXHIBITIONS 16 HENS & STAGS 19 COMPANY PROFILES

www.grampianweddingdirectory.co.uk

10

♥

GETTING STARTED

And where exactly do I start?

Whether you’re planning to become Mr and Mrs, Mr and Mr or Mrs and Mrs, there’s only one thing for it… Research! Leafing through the pages of GWD is a fabulous start, but don’t forget to check out our website, too.

You’ll find everything from pin-worthy snaps of our real brides to competitions where you could win some wedding must-haves!

Exhibitions are great, too.

Although the biggest in the area (Your Wedding Exhibition) has closed its doors for 2019, it’ll be back next year. Meanwhile, there are a host of other local shows where you can meet suppliers, source inspo and have a celebratory tipple!

Is it worth investing in a wedding planner?

It depends on your budget, objectives and, in a way, your personality. If you’re an organisational guru and wouldn’t dream of handing over control to someone else, it’s probably not for you – although bear in mind that you can pick ‘n’ mix their services. They could simply take all supplier liaison off your hands on the week leading up to the big day, for example, so you can concentrate on your own final touches totally stress-free.

Meanwhile, if time is very limited, you’re organising from afar or you want a big wedding but can’t face the to-do list that comes with it, a full wedding planning service could be some of the best money you’ll spend. www.grampianweddingdirectory.co.uk

Not to mention, of course, that these wedding experts come with other benefits. Although they charge a fee, they’re likely to balance that out (and then some!) with the amount they’ll save you by using their little black book to negotiate and book on your behalf.

Gift lists feel like a minefield… Help!

It can be tricky but high-end cutlery company, Viners, tried to make it simpler when they surveyed soon-to-be-weds and newlyweds last year. They revealed that homeware – kitchenware, glasses and textiles, etc. – were the gifts couples received most; however, what they actually wanted was cold, hard cash. Almost a quarter of couples opted for money, whilst large household items, like fridges and cookers, were a close second. There were a few unusual gift requests, too… ranging from goats, dogs and a racehorse to new windows for the marital home!

Evidently, anything is possible so don’t feel you have to stick with the status quo – which, by the way, is the following: A traditional gift list: Usually at a department store but also available through some quirky online retailers, it involves you picking products you like then giving your guests access to the complete list. They’ll make their purchase and it’ll be packed up and delivered to you after you tie the knot. No endless present shopping for your guests and, for you, a whole host of gifts you really want!

A honeymoon contribution: If you have a dream destination in mind but can’t quite get there, let your nearest and dearest help. Go with the Viners survey and ask for money or enlist the help of your travel agent to create an online contribution page. And if you’re organising your honeymoon without an agent or want something a little more personal, there are lots of websites you can tailor to your trip, to the point that your wedding guests could be gifting you a specific activity or cocktail!

www.janiebarclay.com

g n i n n a Pl HEADER

A donation – or nothing at all: Some are couples are fortunate enough to be settled into a full home and have a honeymoon already ticked off the list, so turn their presents into funds for those less fortunate. Most charities are happy to support with this so may offer you marketing materials or even a favour for guests who donate. Failing this, it’s not a problem to simply tell guests that their “presence is present enough” – and mean it!

I have two left feet and the thought of the first dance makes me feel sick…

What can I do?

Don’t panic! You have two options. Firstly, lots of couples shuffle their way through the first few bars of the song then urge onlookers (especially that trusty bridal party!) to join them and take the heat off a bit.

Alternatively, take the opportunity to learn some moves! Friendly, qualified dance teachers in Aberdeen would be only too happy to show you a step or two to ensure you look like naturals. Go the whole hog and rock the room with a routine or just get your head around the basics and your confidence levels up.

Neither option appealing? Well, it’s not unheard of to ditch the first dance altogether. How about starting off with a ceilidh tune that’ll have everyone on their feet and forgetting that the happy couple are traditionally the stars of the show?

I’ve read horror stories where insurance has come into play. Is this something I need to consider?

Yes, if the financial – or emotional – stress of rearranging would be too much. Spend time researching and speaking to the policy providers to find out the best type for you – it’ll largely depend on how much you’re spending on the day. Policies start from under £20 for more costeffective weddings and can climb to a couple of thousand if your nuptials are likely to cost six figures.

A typical policy covers the venue going bust or cancelling, supplier failure, your own cancellation (if people can’t make it due to accident or ill health), plus lost, stolen or damaged goods.

But do check the small print as every policy is different! ♥

♥

11

g n i d d e W checklist 12 months +

3-6 months

 Get your copy of GWD!  Choose a date!  Determine your budget  Decide & book ceremony/ celebrant  Book photographer  Arrange enagagement shoot  Start compiling guest list  Research venues  Start researching dresses  Order save the dates!

 Order stationery & favours  Book wedding night accommodation  Order wedding cake  Meet with florist to decide flowers  Finalise your menu  Buy gifts for bridal party

10-12 Months  Pick your bridal party  Say YES to the dress!  Buy shoes & accessories  Post your save the dates  Book caterers & decide menu  Organise transport  Book DJ/band  Book venues

8-10 Months  Finalise the guest list  Order bridesmaids attire  Register for a gift list  Book florists

6-8 months  Choose groomsmen  Purchase wedding rings  Research your favours  Book hair & make-up  Meet with your celebrant  Book your honeymoon

0-3 months  Send out invitations  Start writing thank-yous  Have dress fittings  Write speechess  Have a hair & make-up trial  Give notice of intent to marry (Religious ceremony)

Final Week  Collect your marriage schedule (Religious ceremony)  Confirm numbers with venue & caterers  Confirm all timings  Pay final balances  Collect groomswear & wedding dress  Get engagement ring cleaned  Rehearsal the night before  Pamper yourself  Get some sleep!

the big day  Eat a big breakfast  Take a deep breath & enjoy!

If you are having a religious/belief ceremony, remember the marriage schedule must be returned to your local registrar within 3 days of your ceremony.

www.grampianweddingdirectory.co.uk

12

♥

HEADER

Inspohunting!

Exhibitions

Whether your big day is quite a few years down the line or in the first half of 2020, it’s never too early – or late – to go looking for some inspiration. And we know one place you’re sure to find what you’re looking for… Your Wedding Exhibition (YWE)!

at TECA January 18th & 19th 2020

HEADER

♥

13

It’s the largest event of its kind in the northeast, by way of exhibitors and visitors. And guess what?

The 2020 dates have already been released!

Get Saturday 18 and Sunday 19 January 2020 in your diary pronto, and don’t forget – YWE will be in its exciting new home: The Event Complex Aberdeen – TECA! Attending a wedding exhibition is the ultimate opportunity for brides- and grooms-to-be (and MOB, MOG and the bridesmaids!) to get familiar with the latest trends and shop around for everything you could possibly need for the big day, from venues to vendors.

This year, Aberdeen’s landmark wedding show, YWE, welcomed almost 200 hand-picked suppliers, from top dress designers showing off their latest creations to beauty and styling tips from experts in aesthetics, plus bespoke jewellers, professional photographers, honeymoon destinations, gift ideas and off-the-beaten-track wedding locations.

Next year, however, promises to be even bigger and better as the iconic show moves from the AECC (its home of 13 years) to TECA, Scotland’s brand new, state-of-the-art exhibition and conference facility.

The exciting new venue offers fantastic potential for both engaged couples (and their nearest and dearest!) and suppliers, with opportunities for even more exhibits, fashion shows and competitions

So, what can you expect? Well, let’s start with the twice daily catwalk shows, the delicious fizz on tap, the exciting prize draws and, of course, more freebies than you can shake a stick at!

Plus, with GWD as the event’s main sponsor, the team will be on hand during the weekend with all the vital wedding-related advice and tips you need ahead of your big day – plus a handy copy of the directory to take home, of course.

YWE is fully catered, too, so if the thought of making your way around everything in just an hour or two is a little daunting, don’t worry – you can spend the whole day there with your bride or groom squad, and get a lovely lunch into the bargain!

Before then, however, there’ll be plenty to whet your appetite. Often wedding venues host exhibitions, bringing together those suppliers who often do weddings there and are familiar with the site – a great way to get to know vendors that come recommended by those in the know!

Keep an eye on our Facebook page for details of events like this – and, of course, important updates about YWE 2020! ♥

Make your Wedding Vision a Reality... ...With 2020 Vision!

www.yourweddingexhibition.com X [

14

♥

HEADER

Competition... Competition... Competition...

Enjoy a Spa day for six guests!

A ‘Spa’rkling Day at Ardoe In the run-up to your big day, why not pamper yourself at the superb Spa at Ardoe House Hotel? Dedicated to putting your well-being at the heart of everything they do, Ardoe’s team has created a space to escape the everyday and find a rare moment of relaxation, helping you to unwind, de-stress and feel totally refreshed.

Infusing everything they do with quality, they boast luxurious beauty treatments and high-end products.

The spa, team and location are centred on helping you feel like the best possible you. They treat each guest as an individual, personalising their service at every point – from tailoring consultations to ensuring that every treatment is unique. Options focus around the pleasingly indulgent mantra, ‘It's all about me’, with massages, facials, full-body scrubs and wraps, as well as waxing, manicures and pedicures on offer.

YWE 2020 VISION

www.grampianweddingdirectory.co.uk

HEADER

♥

15

Competition... Competition... Competition...

The team at Ardoe House Hotel are offering GWD readers the chance to win a Spa day for six. The lucky winners’ package will include a glass of bubbly on arrival, full use of the spa facilities, a light lunch and a 60-minute spa treatment* Spa days also include unlimited use of Ardoe Health Club, complete with a fitness studio, an 18-metre heated swimming pool, a sauna and a steam room. Bath robes, towels and slippers are provided during your visit for your comfort. Use your spa experience to switch off, unwind, relax and repair.

For your chance to win this terrific prize, just register your details online at:

www.grampianweddingdirectory.co.uk Deadline for entries: Friday 20 September 2019

*(valuing approximately £900).

You can also enjoy Ardoe House Health Club, with its newly refurbished gym and fitness studio, and unwind in the jacuzzi after a tough workout. And, if you’re a member or a hotel resident, all fitness classes are complimentary.

Ardoe House Hotel & Spa – a magnificent 19th-century baronial mansion with 30 acres of beautiful countryside – can also be the perfect location for your big day, whether you’re planning a small and intimate wedding, a larger full-day celebration, or an evening reception. With seven spaces to choose from, including the newly refurbished Ogston and Elliot Suites launching in May 2019, they may have the perfect function space for you.

USUAL FREE PRIZE DRAW RULES APPLY. COPY AVAILABLE ON REQUEST. PRIZE CANNOT BE USED IN CONJUNCTION WITH ANY OTHER OFFER FROM ARDOE HOUSE HOTEL & SPA. EDITOR’S DECISION IS FINAL. FOR MORE DETAILS ON ARDOE HOUSE HOTEL & SPA VISIT WWW.ARDOEHOUSEBLAIRS. CO.UK OR CALL A MEMBER OF THE TEAM ON 01224 860 600.

www.grampianweddingdirectory.co.uk

♥

HENS & STAGS

www.byrhea.co.uk

16

Last of freedom Fun night & Games!

Whether it’s hens, stags, hags or stens, kicking your heels up to wave farewell in style to your ‘single’ life pre-nup side is a tradition nearly as old as the hills in Ancient Greece, where hen parties are said to have started.

In those times, Segwaying round the countryside or tottering on impossibly high heels round the best watering holes wasn’t the norm. It was a symbolic rite of passage for girls from childhood to adulthood, leading up to tying the knot, that they celebrated with female friends and relatives.

So, the essential element of getting together with people you love and trust was there.

as well as your own – how much do you know about him/her; decorate a picture of them with sequins, pasta and glitter glue; which of your mates knows your best/worst secrets… All dangerously Instagram-able! Just remember – before your chief bridesmaid and best man start party planning – to lay down some ground rules to keep things within your comfort zone.

Things have evolved since then and modern twists are wide and varied now. From a week in the sun with your best guys and gals to basketweaving workshops followed by cocktail shaking with top mixologists, your back-up team can organise almost anything to help you celebrate.

Grabbing your passports for some fun in the sun is still popular. Combine a holiday with some decent weather (well, the northeast’s can be ‘interesting’!), a chance to get a nice tan to set off your outfits, and party hearty away from any prewedding stress. But don’t forget the charms of passport-free travel round the UK to hotspots like Bath, Brighton and the ever-popular Newcastle.

Naturally, there’ll be a few gags and quizzes at your soon-to-be forever partner’s expense, www.grampianweddingdirectory.co.uk

www.jenniferriddell.co.uk

www.aboynephotographics.com

HENS & STAGS

♥

17

Closer to home, Grampian is teeming with ideas for you. Book into one of our spa hotels to pamper your bodies for the big day (and, yes, fellas, that’s available for you too!). Stay overnight and add a sumptuous dinner with drinkies. If it’s at your wedding venue, you may snag a great deal into the bargain!

To bond your wedding party before the main event, why not organise a friendly competition of some sort?

www.elitephotographics.co.uk

@ CODONAS

HEN & STAG

PARTIES KARAOKE 10-PIN BOWLING COCKTAILS

GREAT FOOD CRAFT BEER AMERICAN POOL

BEER PONG

LASER TAG sales@codonas.com 01224 597 675

SP HE ECIA L N& PA STA PAC RTY G KA GE S

www.grampianweddingdirectory.co.uk

18

♥

HENS & STAGS

Head out of town to indulge in go-karting, archery, zorbing (on water and land), and maybe learn how to clay-pigeon shoot. Put everyone into teams and keep score. And it’s a great way to have boys versus girls if you’re thinking of a combined do.

For something less strenuous, but equally testing of skill and nerve, why not organise a set of escape room challenges? There’s nothing more likely to bring your team together than working out the clues to release them from a locked room in a short space of time! Just check that no one is prone to claustrophobia first.

Your celebration doesn’t have to be anything complex or posh, though. If you fancy a night bowling and a great meal out, there are lots of wonderful restaurants to choose from. Go for a spot of karaoke or have a gaming night – old arcade games or Pacman-athon anyone?

Want something more adventurous? There’s always white-water rafting and canyoning…

Don’t forget your life jacket, though! ♥

www.grampianweddingdirectory.co.uk

www.deesidephoto.co.uk

TH E D I R E C T O RY

19

COMPANY PROFI L E S - GE T TI NG ST ARTED

GIFTS & GIFT LISTS Brodie Countryfare X Y [

Brodie By Forres Moray, IV36 2TD 01309 641555 www.brodiecountryfare.com sarah@brodiecountryfare.com Contact: Sarah Kinlin

Jamieson And Carry Gifts X Y [

142 Union Street Aberdeen, AB10 1GF 01224 641219 www.jamieson-carry.com enquiries@jamieson-carry.com Contact: Philip Carry & Tracy Hanton

Sinclairs Jewellers X

Lochter Activity Centre X [

Lochter Oldmeldrum Aberdeenshire, AB51 0DZ 01651 872000 www.lochter.co.uk info@lochter.co.uk Contact: Michaela Webster

Village Hotel Club Aberdeen X Y

Prime Four Kingswells Aberdeen, AB15 8PJ 01224 974580 www.village-hotels.co.uk/hotels/aberdeen china.rahul@village-hotels.com Contact: China Rahul & Karen Day

STATIONERY & FAVOURS Love Paper Co X

63 Market Place Inverurie, AB51 3PY 01467 620275 www.sinclairsjewellers.co.uk info@sinclairsjewellers.co.uk Contact: Ian Sinclair

22 Tolquhon Avenue Tarves Aberdeenshire, AB41 7LW 07548 213 655 www.love-paper.co.uk hello@love-paper.co.uk Contact: Stacey Barr

HENS & STAGS

North East Events X

10 Dollar Shake X Y

The Tippling House 4 Belmont Street Aberdeen, AB10 1JE www.10dollarshake.com events@10dollarshake.com Contact: Adrian Gomes

Codonas Pleasure Fairs Ltd X Y Queens Links The Beach Aberdeen, AB24 5ED 01224 597675 www.codonas.com sales@codonas.com

Copthorne Hotel Aberdeen X Y [

122 Huntly Street Aberdeen, AB10 1SU 01224 630404 www.millenniumhotels.co.uk/copthorneaberdeen events.aberdeen@millenniumhotels.co.uk Contact: Adrienne Duncan & Jamie Snowden

15 Coutens Park Old Meldrum, AB51 0PG 07969 536288 www.northeast-events.co.uk alison@northeast-events.co.uk Contact: Alison Blundell

Paperoo X Y [

224 Great Western Road Aberdeen, AB10 6PD 07740 341278 www.paperoo.co.uk hello@paperoo.co.uk Contact: Vicky Forbes

Paperskeleton X Y [

18 Little Belmont Street, Upstairs Left Aberdeen, AB10 1JG 07535 504453 paperskeleton.co.uk karla@paperskeleton.co.uk Contact: Karla Hall

Perfect Moment Design X

Knavenside Maud, Peterhead Aberdeenshire, AB42 5ST 07493 363647 www.perfectmomentdesign.co.uk elaine@perfectmomentdesign.co.uk Contact: Elaine Low

You Are Invited, Wedding & Occasion Stationery X

247 Rosemount Place Aberdeen, AB25 2XX 01224 379339 www.youareinvited.me.uk info@youareinvited.me.uk Contact: Jennifer Forbes

WEDDING PLANNERS North East Events X

15 Coutens Park Old Meldrum, AB51 0PG 07969 536288 www.northeast-events.co.uk alison@northeast-events.co.uk Contact: Alison Blundell

Ruffle & Rose Events X [

Kilncraig, Strawberry Field Road, Westhill, Aberdeenshire, AB32 6TB 07734 648 385 www.ruffleandrose.co.uk hello@ruffleandrose.co.uk Contact: Gemma Williamson

EXHIBITIONS Your Wedding Exhibition X

479 North Deeside Road Cults Aberdeen, AB15 9TJ 01224 865466 www.yweltd.com simon@yweltd.com Contact: Simon Morgan

www.grampianweddingdirectory.co.uk www.jonathanaddie.com

20

♥

BRIDAL COUTURE

WHAT TO WEAR 20 BRIDAL COUTURE 42 BRIDESMAIDS 46 MOTHER OF THE BRIDE 52 GROOMSWEAR 64 COMPANY PROFILES 66 GET THE LOOK www.grampianweddingdirectory.co.uk

BRIDAL COUTURE

♥

21

Gorgeous Bridal Gowns For many women, THE dress of their dreams has been a twinkle in their eye since they were really small. They’ve got every last tiny detail worked out in their imaginations, down to the cut, the skirt, the buttons and the embroidery.

So, shopping for that dream creation – a dress that’ll match up to their childhood ideal – is going to require thought, planning, energy… and a bit of common sense and flexibility.

On the other hand, you might not have an exact picture in your head of the wedding dress you want – or any at all (don’t panic!), but there are lots of places to find inspiration and ideas…

GWD for starters! Grab some other magazines; check online to see what the hot trends are for the coming season (ruffles and feathers, anyone?); indulge in some celebrity spying to find out what the A-list are sporting (Duchess of Sussex simplicity, for example); investigate Pinterest’s hot picks; and ask friends and family. In fact, why not go back over old family wedding photos for ideas? www.joyceyoungcollections.co.uk

www.grampianweddingdirectory.co.uk

22

♥

BRIDAL COUTURE

Vintage looks are in – 1970s disco-style, for starters – so you might find something in the family ‘history’ books that’s just the ticket.

www.grampianweddingdirectory.co.uk

www.perfectbridalrooms.com

angharad bridal 01343 546448

www.angharadbridal.co.uk angharadbridal@gmail.com 28-30 South Street Elgin • IV30 1JX

Bridal, bridesmaids and mother of the bride outfits & accessories available at Angharad Bridal.

www.grampianweddingdirectory.co.uk

24

♥

BRIDAL COUTURE

www.joyceyoungcollections.co.uk

Don’t forget that it might not be a whole dress that tickles your fancy. It could be the fabric, the headdress, a natty cape or swishing veil, the embroidery, a particular style of button… all sorts of tiny details that might make the difference between “Yeah, it’s alright…” and “Wow!” And, if there’s going to be a theme (Versailles, country and western, Disney) or colour palette (blue dresses are very in this year) running through your wedding, you’ll want some ideas for that too.

Gather them all together either in a big scrapbook or online, and then have a hunt through the websites of our wonderful northeast bridal stores to see who might stock what you have your eye on. Get a shortlist organised – you don’t want to overload yourself with visits to begin with. You can always go back later to places you put on your reserve list. And make a list of questions – one for what you want to ask them and another of what they might ask you. www.grampianweddingdirectory.co.uk

HEADER

♥

25

Blush B R I DA L

01346 516851  www.blushbridal.scot  www.grampianweddingdirectory.co.uk info@blushbridal.scot

26

♥

BRIDAL COUTURE

www.grampianweddingdirectory.co.uk www.byrhea.co.uk

BRIDAL COUTURE

♥

27

So, what will they want to know?

Here are a few suggestions from us: How much?: What’s your budget, basically. If there’s

an absolute upper limit, the experienced assistant will be able to find dresses that suit your ideas and frame while not breaking the bank. Remember they might have some end-of-season pieces available, too. Be flexible about this and you could bag yourself an amazing dress at a bargain price.

www.elitephotographics.co.uk

When?:

When are you getting married? Spring?

Winter? This can help your bridal expert to narrow down fabrics that are better for cold, dark winter nights as opposed to warmer summer evenings. A dramatic dark velvet gown would look stunning in the glow from a log fire and candlelight, while chiffon’s lightness can match the soft breeze of Midsummer.

Where?: Again, this can affect the materials that are

best for you – stately homes or a barn may be cooler than a centrally heated hotel, for example. But it can also be about other practicalities. A long train might not be suitable for marrying in a village hall or a veil could get caught up if you’re marrying outdoors. You could consider a two-piece ensemble with a cosy cape to keep out the chill, which can be removed once the dancing warms you up! www.joyceyoungcollections.co.uk

Hairstyle?: This may seem an odd detail for dress shopping, but how you’re going to wear your hair on the day can affect the choice of neckline and veil (if you’re having one). A bodice with intricate embroidery or lace round the shoulders will be lost if you’re wearing your hair loose, for example. Your hair’s also a consideration if you’re going to be wearing a floral crown, a tiara or some other form of headpiece. Give your expert plenty of info to help them guide you to the perfect gown and accompanying accessories.

Have you thought about…?:

www.deesidephoto.co.uk

Shoe height, jewellery, underwear, a handbag or a hidden pocket for essentials, different styles of dresses, or even hats if you’re going for something a little unusual…

The list is quite possibly endless, but the better you’ve done your homework before starting, the easier this will be. And don’t forget comfort! You’ll be in your dress all day, so you need to be able to move easily, sit and stand without complications… and leave room to eat and breathe. The northeast’s bridal gurus can give you tips on all of this.

28

♥

BRIDAL COUTURE

www.ivorygrace.co.uk

The necessities you have to consider once you’ve booked appointments for your hit list of wedding stores? There’s quite a few…

Aside from bringing all your research ideas to show them, you’ll have to think about what you’re wearing for trying on dresses. Decent, but neutrally coloured, lingerie is a must. You won’t get the best idea of the end result without the proper ‘upholstery’ to support it. Also, take a pair of shoes about the height you expect to wear, so you can be certain the skirt won’t trail (you don’t want it spoiled by dust or mud!) or your heels catch in them. This’ll protect your dignity as well as your safety… And absolutely no fake tan or similar – other brides-to-be will be trying these dresses on!

www.grampianweddingdirectory.co.uk

www.perfectbridalrooms.com

www.janiebarclay.com

HEADER

♥

29

www.grampianweddingdirectory.co.uk

30

♥

BRIDAL COUTURE

www.aboynephotographics.com

You might prefer to shop alone, but if you want some moral support through the selection process, take along a couple of people whose judgement you trust. Turn it into a day out if you’ve got a few appointments booked – coffee and cake or lunch in between them gives you all a chance to relax, keep your energy levels up, and discuss the pros and cons of what you’ve seen. A few laughs along the way with your best buds will give you a boost if it’s taking a while to find your ideal gown. www.jonathanaddie.com

www.angharadbridal.co.uk

www.grampianweddingdirectory.co.uk

HEADER

♼

31

Perfect M ments B R I DA L B O U T I Q U E

Perfect Moments is a small Bridal Boutique which delivers a personal service.

We offer a lovely range of Gowns including: Ella Rosa, Callista Bride, The Dessy Group and Richard Designs.

T:

01542 488731 E: perfectmomentsbridal@gmail.com 2 Gordon Street, Buckie, AB56 1JD www.perfectmomentsbridal.co.uk www.grampianweddingdirectory.co.uk

32

♥

BRIDAL COUTURE

www.grampianweddingdirectory.co.uk

www.joyceyoungcollections.co.uk

BRIDAL COUTURE

♥

33

To help the process, you should also take along an open mind. There may be a style you’ve set your heart on, but it may not be the one that makes you look fabulous when you finally put it on. Experiment with different cuts, consider a variety of neck and hemlines, try out a full skirt if a sheath isn’t quite right once on… and listen to the bridal experts. Their trained eyes might alight on an absolute stunner for you.

Don’t limit yourself to dresses either. For some, it could be your idea of torture to spend a whole day in a huge ballgown affair. There are lots of amazing alternatives out there – trouser suits, jumpsuits, mini dresses… And you can steer clear of white by going for a bold coloured dress or a dazzling creation with lots of crystals or large sequins. Then there’s vintage and pre-loved (a great way to nab a designer bargain!) to choose from. The options are as individual as you are.

Before you seal the deal on your perfect frock, check the small print about payment. You need to find out about deposits, final payments, and if there are any discounts available (bride and bridesmaids together, for example) or payment plans on offer. Don’t hand over your hard-earned cash until you have all the details.

www.angharadbridal.co.uk

www.grampianweddingdirectory.co.uk

34

♥

BRIDAL COUTURE

www.byrhea.co.uk

www.perfectbridalrooms.com

www.angharadbridal.co.uk

www.aboynephotographics.com

Also, ask about timings for delivery and final fittings to ensure everything will be ready in time for your big day. Factor in time for alterations, too, if required. Whilst a dress might be practically perfect in almost every way, it may require tweaking to fit your silhouette exactly. Find out if that can be done on site or if it needs to be sent away for this, and how long it could take. You don’t want any anxieties caused by last-minute arrivals – you’ve got enough to organise without adding to your stress levels.

Especially for you…

It may be that, despite your best efforts and those of the bridal experts in Aberdeen and the shire, The One just doesn’t seem to be out there for you. Despair not – there are ways and means of getting your heart’s desire: go bespoke! www.grampianweddingdirectory.co.uk

HEADER

♥

35

www.grampianweddingdirectory.co.uk

36

♥

BRIDAL COUTURE

www.ivorygrace.co.uk

Before you cry that it’s too expensive, stop and think about this – you set the budget. All good bridal designers will work within what you can afford. Tell them the limits (or not) of your cash and they’ll create a frock that matches your dreams with materials that won’t break the bank.

They’ll have a ‘little black book’ of contacts to draw on to get deals and discounts on fabrics, ribbons, buttons, etc. You might even find they can save

www.aboynephotographics.com

www.grampianweddingdirectory.co.uk

you some pennies, making it more cost-effective than buying off the peg. No alterations required, for example, as the dress is being designed to suit your frame, leading to less waste.

An additional bonus is that you may get a beautiful extra keepsake for your wedding in the form of the original drawings they prepare for your design. There might be a fee for this, but check up front so there are no surprises.

Your dream dress is waiting for you at

HEADER

♥

37

01224 574141265 I 267 Holburn Street, Aberdeen AB10 7FL info@perfectbridalrooms.com I www.perfectbridalrooms.com I MP www.grampianweddingdirectory.co.uk

♥

BRIDAL COUTURE

www.jonathanaddie.com

38

The little extras Accessories are the icing on the cake for your wedding outfit, so don’t forget to put thought into those, too.

Some bridal stores are a one-stop shop for everything you need, such as shoes, bags, veils, jewellery (including tiaras), capes and hair ornaments. If you’ve gone for a coloured dress, you can get shoes that complement or match it. And if nothing suits? Ask if it’s possible to get them dyed to match – handbags, included.

For veils and capes, you’ll need to think about material, length, shape and decoration. They’ll need to sync with your dress – an intricately embroidered veil might be overpowering if your frock is very detailed, too.

You also don’t want them ‘fighting’ with one another – they need to flow as if they are one, so you can swish down the aisle in style.

www.grampianweddingdirectory.co.uk

BRIDAL COUTURE

www.deesidephoto.co.uk www.byrhea.co.uk

♥

39

Chiffon, tulle and silk veils will flutter prettily in a gentle summer breeze, but for something more substantial you could try a beaded cape. For a more unusual accessory, try something in bold colours to add some drama – or how about a cape with a lace halter neck and shoulder piece for a twist on the traditional. A capelet’s also a great idea if don’t want your arms restricted by lots of material. Getting married in colder months?

Why not go for a velvet cloak in deep blue or red for an eye-catching alternative?

The other essential is decent lingerie.

Apart from garters and something sexy for the honeymoon, it’s important to help the line of your outfit sit perfectly. Head to a specialist for advice – maybe taking a photo of your dress with you, and ask them what’ll create the best silhouette. Ensure that whatever you pick doesn’t restrict you – movement and breathing – so that you can look gorgeous whilst still enjoying yourself. Comfort is key to almost all your accessories!

www.grampianweddingdirectory.co.uk

40

♥

BRIDAL COUTURE

www.aberdeenphoto.com

www.joyceyoungcollections.co.uk

www.perfectbridalrooms.com

www.grampianweddingdirectory.co.uk

www.aboynephotographics.com www.deesidephoto.co.uk

BRIDAL COUTURE

♥

41

Be yourself!

No matter what type of bridal couture you choose, remember to be true to yourself and don’t let others’ opinions hold too much sway over what you want. It’s your wedding day and you want to be comfortable, yet elegant and beautiful. Give yourself plenty of time to look – start at least a year before your big day – and don’t give yourself a hard time if you don’t find what you want immediately. Walking into a shop and picking the first dress you try on is the exception, not the rule.

The trends at the time? You’re allowed to ignore them and go your own way. If feathers and ruffles aren’t you, you don’t have to have them.

If a simple gown seems dull to you, go for a fishtail or sumptuous fairy-tale princess number.

Attach lots of lace and embroidery, cover your frock in appliqué flowers or beads, or add a dash of hidden colour by putting a fun shade in your underskirt. Dress as a flapper girl, wear a Stetson and cowboy boots, come as Wonder Woman or wear every colour of the rainbow… The final say on however you choose to dress on your magical day is yours.

www.aboynephotographics.com

Whatever you wear, you can be sure of one thing: you’ll

glow from the inside out with happiness! ♥

Fred’s THREADS

Bridal Dressmaker & Hire Specialist Tel:

01343 812329

46 High Street, Lossiemouth Moray, IV31 6AA

Find us on Facebook and Instagram @thebridalboutiqueaberdeen www.thebridalboutiqueaberdeen.com T: 01224 733344 M: 07557783506 267 North Deeside Road, Peterculter, Aberdeen, AB14 0UL

www.grampianweddingdirectory.co.uk

42

♥

BRIDESMAIDS

Bride’s B Buddies

Do you know why, traditionally, bridesmaids always wore the same dresses as each other – and the bride? Nuptials at that time were said to be gatecrashed by evil spirits and exes (eek!), so the matching tribe would confuse the baddies, allowing the happy couple to tie the knot without disruption or evil…

These days, however, such customs seem far less common – both the gatecrashing and, sometimes, the matching dresses!

An increasing number of brides are choosing to put their squad in outfits that complement one another – the same shade in different shapes or a matching style in a varied colour palette – but aren’t identical.

And, for many maids, this works – it means flexibility and a chance to potentially influence the selection process. How much nicer is it to wear a colour that flatters or a shape that enhances your best assets?

Of course, it’s not always this simple and the search for these gorgeous gowns can be a little tricky, so make sure you set out some ground rules in the beginning – decide how much say they’ll get in the dresses and, of course, have a chat about budget. www.grampianweddingdirectory.co.uk

www.byrhea.co.uk

BRIDESMAIDS

♥

43

www.grampianweddingdirectory.co.uk

44

♥

BRIDESMAIDS

Some couples pay for wedding party outfits in full as a thank-you gift, whilst others may pay for the clothing and expect them to accessorise independently. Alternatively, if you’re giving your girls a lot of say in the purchase process and it’s likely they’ll be able to wear it again and again, you could ask them to buy it themselves. That then frees up your pennies to spend on shoes, jewellery or something else for pressies.

Having these open and honest conversations in the beginning should prevent any niggles further down the line and ensure the planning process is stress-free and fun-filled all round.

But, of course, you may not be quite at that stage yet and still to ask your best gals ‘the big question’.

So, here are some of our favourite ways to do it: A proposal box or bag, complete with a custom card: It’s been done to death but it’s such a sweet sentiment. Fill a pretty box or tote bag with their favourite things and make it even more personal with a bespoke bridesmaid card – Aberdeen’s fabulous stationers will be only too happy to help!

www.blushbridal.scot

Ask your bridesmaids to say, “ I do” with a personalised wine label – they’ll be able to celebrate their new role straight away with a cheeky tipple!

A balloon: Either print your question on or have them pop it to discover the message inside.

A wine label:

They’ll be able to celebrate their new role straight away with a cheeky tipple!

A puzzle: Keep them guessing with a puzzle they’ll need to fit together to figure out the message.

A personalised shot glass: An ideal way to get them inspired for hen party planning!

A hanger: Complete with their new title, this’ll be the perfect place to hang their gorgeous gown.

www.jonathanaddie.com

A grown-up friendship necklace:

www.janiebarclay.com

These are so cute, and could function as something special to wear when the big day rolls around.

Their favourite food: From M&Ms to macarons, personalise something yummy… one last treat before the wedding diet! ♥ www.grampianweddingdirectory.co.uk

BRIDESMAIDS

♥

45

www.aboynephotographics.com

www.aberdeenphoto.com

www.elitephotographics.co.uk www.jonathanaddie.com

www.aboynephotographics.com

www.aboynephotographics.com

www.byrhea.co.uk

www.grampianweddingdirectory.co.uk

46

♥

MUMS' OUTFITS & OCCASIONWEAR

Red carpet Mums ready

You could be forgiven for thinking it’ll be the typical or even outdated dress styles, but that’s certainly not the case. From graceful off-the-shoulder necklines to shimmering metallic embellishments, MOB and MOG will have the perfect opportunity to confidently blend this year’s top trends with the style and theme of the big day…

www.grampianweddingdirectory.co.uk

www.perfectbridalrooms.com

Ladies’ formalwear designers are constantly seeking inspiration from catwalk collections and the red carpet to develop beautiful, wearable and timeless pieces for the mothers-of-the-bride and-groom – and for other female guests. So, what’s on the horizon for 2019?

MUMS' OUTFITS & OCCASIONWEAR

♥

47

www.aboynephotographics.com

The cut It’s been big in bridal dresses for a few years and now it’s time for the mothers to enjoy this refined trend – the elegant off-the-shoulder neckline. This sophisticated style will ensure your chest and bust are well covered and, instead, expose a little of your collarbone and accentuate your shoulders in a modest way.

The hemline Maxi style is absolutely an option for the season ahead… but not all dresses have to be floor length.

How about showing a bit of leg (and shoe!) as you make your way down the aisle with the trendy high-low hemline?

The sleeves This year, MOB and MOG fashion is all about statement sleeves. From an elegant, tailored option on a classic mid-length dress to captivating butterfly sleeves, this is a lovely way to ensure you look red carpet-ready in the cooler months.

The detail From crepe and chiffon to sparkle and beading, the 2019 designs are all about texture and embellishment. If the bride is wearing lace, how about opting for lace sleeves to tie in with her?

Alternatively, jazz up your outfit with gold encrusted beadwork or silver sequin detailing – perfect for a mother who wants to look youthful yet age appropriate. www.grampianweddingdirectory.co.uk

♼

MUMS' OUTFITS & OCCASIONWEAR

www.aboynephotographics.com

48

The pattern Bold designs will be in demand in the coming seasons and whilst the humble polka dot is still very much on trend, statement floral prints are in, too. If you go down this route, keep your accessories simple – and to a similar colour theme. www.grampianweddingdirectory.co.uk

www.grampianweddingdirectory.co.uk

50

♥

MUMS' OUTFITS & OCCASIONWEAR

The colour Deep and rich hues are tipped to be big this year so think sapphire blue and merlot purple – handy that they’re rather slimming shades, too! Meanwhile, mothers-of-the-bride and -groom have traditionally avoided white or off-white shades, but more are popping up in irresistible ivory numbers – ideal for summer nuptials.

The cover-up If you’re a lover of vintage and keen to add a bit of drama to your outfit, a stylish cape is the perfect outer layer. From short capelets to long, flowing numbers, this will really give you the wow factor.

The alternative If you’re not keen on getting your pins out, you’re in luck – there are some utterly stunning trouser options out there for the months ahead, including ultra-flattering wide legs, which look great with layered blouses. www.joyceyoungcollections.co.uk

So, once you have an idea of what’s hot and what’s not, it’s time to start shopping. Well… almost!

Perfect Collections is our luxurious occasion wear boutique conveniently situated on our spacious upper floor, within the heart of Perfect Bridal Rooms’ We are delighted to present a stunning collection of elegant and glamorous outfits, carefully selected from fashion designers with international reputation.

You will be thrilled with the amazing fabrics, flattering fit and wealth of colour choice, coupled with our professional and friendly service.

01224 574141 www.perfectbridalrooms.com 265/267 Holburn Street, Aberdeen AB10 7FL

www.grampianweddingdirectory.co.uk

MUMS' OUTFITS & OCCASIONWEAR

It’s handy to do a bit of background work in terms of the wedding itself first. Think about the style of the big day – is it traditional or informal? Is there a specific theme, like vintage or rustic? Will there be drinks or photographs outside that’ll require sensible shoes and a cover-up?

It’s worth considering the transition from a formal daytime outfit to something that functions for a bit of a party in the evening, too. Removing your hat (as dictated by tradition, but not essential) after the meal helps with this, but often materials like silk or brocade are ideal for carrying off both looks.

♥

51

And if you can’t find the right headpiece, it’s not the end of the road – how about commissioning a bespoke creation from Grampian’s talented milliners? These creative individuals can look at the rest of your garments, as well as your face shape and colouring, to suggest the perfect finishing touch. ♥

Talking of which, hats aren’t mandatory, but do make a beautiful finish to an outfit… and can be a bit of a statement piece to set these belles of the ball apart from other wedding guests. They come in all shapes and sizes with as little or as much detail as you like.

It doesn’t have to be the focal point of your attire, though. For something subtler, go for a delicate fascinator or meet in the middle with a funky hatinator.

www.elitephotographics.co.uk

THE WEDDING SHOP AT BRODIE Everything you need to take on the wedding season in style

• Mother of the Bride/Groom • Wedding Guest • Exclusive Gifts • Shoes & Accessories • Favours • Restaurant

01309 641555 www.brodiecountryfare.com Brodie, By Forres, Moray IV36 2TD on the A96 between Forres & Nairn

www.grampianweddingdirectory.co.uk

52

♼

GROOMSWEAR

Here Grooms Comes the Groom With two dashing feature grooms tying the knot in this issue of GWD, it was only fitting to take advantage of them and pick their brains on groomswear, too! So, we asked Scott Wyllie how he and his husband-to-be, Craig Huggins, found the perfect outfits to tie the knot in – and, of course, we requested their top tips for grooms-to-be just starting out!

It can be difficult to get started. How did you get inspired?

We went to Your Wedding Exhibition to have a look at our options and thought the catwalk show was a great help. It gave us a really good idea of what was on trend and what was available at that time.

www.grampianweddingdirectory.co.uk

www.simonclubb.com

GROOMSWEAR

♥

53

54

♥

HEADER

www.grampianweddingdirectory.co.uk

HEADER

♥

55

www.grampianweddingdirectory.co.uk

♥

GROOMSWEAR

www.aboynephotographics.com

56

You and Craig were super-handsome in your kilt outfits. How did you choose them?

We wanted to both be exactly the same – we didn’t want anything different. We quickly found the exact kilt for us and just had to figure out the jacket and accessories we’d team it with. I knew I didn’t want a traditional kilt jacket or anything suit jacket-style. So, we tried on a jacket called the Sheriffmuir (a high-collared evening jacket, fastened at the top button with a curved cutaway front) and both loved it. www.grampianweddingdirectory.co.uk

HEADER

♥

57

www.grampianweddingdirectory.co.uk

58

♥

GROOMSWEAR

We added white shirts as we knew they’d give a great, crisp look, then we picked a white cravat to match our groomsmaids, who were in white.

When it came to the males in our wedding party, we had them in the same kilt as us, and added a different jacket.

It was good to have the option of wearing a tie to match the kilt tartan, too. Craig wasn’t keen on the plaid but I really wanted to wear it – and as soon as he saw me with it on, he decided he was definitely wearing one, too. Both of us having them looked so much better in the pictures, plus the plaid makes you stand out amongst your wedding guests.

And what made you choose that particular tartan?

www.aberdeenphoto.com

www.grampianweddingdirectory.co.uk

We went with Granite Pride because it featured the colours we wanted our wedding to be. I’d always envisioned grey and white, and that tartan had both – the kilt and the accessories just pulled the whole outfit together.

GROOMSWEAR

♥

59

www.byrhea.co.uk

www.grampianweddingdirectory.co.uk

60

♥

GROOMSWEAR

Did you hire or buy?

We hired. We did think about buying the full outfit, or even just the kilt. But, for every wedding we’ve been to over the past few years, we’ve been asked to wear the same tartan as the groom, so we weren’t sure how much use we’d get out of our own kilt outfits.

Finally, what are your top tips for grooms-to-be when it comes to deciding what to wear, then going shopping for it?

Always shop around – but if you have a specific vision of what you want, make sure you try on the exact colours. That’s the only way you’ll get a real idea of what you’ll look like on the big day.

www.deesidephoto.co.uk www.jenniferriddell.co.uk

www.aberdeenphoto.com

Go to a variety of wedding fairs, especially those with fashion shows. Seeing the outfit on someone gives you a different perspective than seeing it on a hanger. So, if you still like it on the model, it’s worth trying on yourself to get a better feel for it.

If you’re hiring your attire, make sure that the supplier can provide enough of everything for the whole wedding party.

I was worried I wouldn’t have enough kilts or jackets but, actually, McCalls were great.

They, unfortunately, ran out of my tartan, but brought some more up from Dundee and elsewhere in Scotland to make sure we had plenty.

Finally, take your time when it comes to picking something – the photos last forever! www.grampianweddingdirectory.co.uk

www.aberdeenphoto.com

www.elitephotographics.co.uk

www.grampianweddingdirectory.co.uk

62

♥

GROOMSWEAR

If traditional Scottish dress isn’t for you, don’t worry. The threepiece suit is a great alternative

and is tipped to be extra trendy in

2019. A smart and sophisticated option, it can be tailored to your taste and the theme of your big

day, too. Bright-coloured and

bold patterned suits are said to be big this year!

www.slaters.co.uk www.grampianweddingdirectory.co.uk

♥

63

P.S. Some final tips from the GWD team!

• Selecting your kilt, jacket and shirt doesn’t mean you’re done quite yet! From socks, shoes and sporrans to belt buckles, kilt pins and flashes, there are lots of opportunities to personalise your outfit further. These add-ons are also a great way to set yourself apart from the best men, the groomsmen and any other kilted fellows at the wedding. You’ll want to think about other accessories, too – a special set of cufflinks and a watch, perhaps. And what about a wedding fragrance? Perfect excuse to splash out on the aftershave you’ve been lusting after.

• Once the outfit is finally complete, make sure you’re wearing it correctly. That means having the kilt sit around the belly button area with the hem finishing between the middle and top of the kneecap. Also, you’ll want the pleats to sit at the back and the fringes to your right-hand side.

• If traditional Scottish dress isn’t for you, don’t worry. The three-piece suit is a great alternative and is tipped to be extra trendy in 2019. A smart and sophisticated option, it can be tailored to your taste and the theme of your big day, too. Bright-coloured and bold patterned suits are said to be big this year so, if you do fancy a little nod to Scotland, what about a striking tartan suit?

• Finally, trend-wise, natural and earthy colours are set to reign supreme this year, whilst already popular tweed is set to take off even more. TV shows like Peaky Blinders have propelled it into the spotlight and it looks great for vintage and rustic-style weddings – especially those in a stately home or countryside setting. And, as it works for suiting (go head-to-toe tweed or incorporate a few tweedy touches, like a tie or pair of shoes) and kilts (a tweed jacket is always a hit), what’s not to love? ♥

www.grampianweddingdirectory.co.uk

www.aboynephotographics.com

GROOMSWEAR

64

♥

COMPANY PROFILES

FABRICS Fred’s Threads

46 High Street Lossiemouth, IV31 6AA 01343 812329 Contact: Lorraine Williams

BRIDAL COUTURE, DRESSMAKING & BRIDESMAIDS Angharad Bridal X [

28-30 South Street, Elgin Morayshire, IV30 1JX 01343 546448 07811 088417 www.angharadbridal.co.uk angharadbridal@gmail.com Contact: Angharad Rogers

Avorio Bridal X Y [

91 High Street Fochabers, IV30 7DH 01343 821444 www.avoriobridal.com info@avoriobridal.com Contact: Leigh-anne Murray & Sonia Pozzi

Blush Bridal X [

42 Frithside Street Fraserburgh Aberdeenshire, AB43 9AR 01346 516851 www.blushbridal.scot info@blushbridal.scot Contact: Diane Stephen

Fred’s Threads

46 High Street Lossiemouth, IV31 6AA 01343 812329 Contact: Lorraine Williams

Ivory Grace Bridal Limited X [ WWW.JOYCEYOUNGCOLLECTIONS.CO.UK

www.grampianweddingdirectory.co.uk

364 Great Western Road Aberdeen, AB10 6PH 07920 400984 www.ivorygrace.co.uk info@ivorygrace.co.uk Contact: Kayleigh Brown

Joyce Young Design Studios X [ \ Design Studio & Showroom Unit 1, 1987 Maryhill Road Glasgow, Scotland, G20 0BT 0141 942 8900 www.joyceyoungcollections.co.uk info@bystorm.co.uk Contact: Joyce Young

T H E D I R E C T O RY

HEADER

♥

65

C O M PA N Y PRO F I L ES - W H A T T O W E A R Nina Edge Designs

32 Beltie Road Torphins Aberdeenshire, AB31 4JT 013398 82315 www.ninaedgedesign.co.uk nina.edge@btinternet.com Contact: Nina Edge

Perfect Bridal Room X Y [ 265-267 Holburn Street Aberdeen, AB10 7FL 01224 574141 www.perfectbridalrooms.com perfectbridalrms@aol.com Contact: Alison Waller

Perfect Moments Bridal Boutique X

Nina Edge Designs 32 Beltie Road Torphins Aberdeenshire, AB31 4JT 013398 82315 www.ninaedgedesign.co.uk nina.edge@btinternet.com Contact: Nina Edge

Pear Tree Hat Hire X [ Inschfield Farm Insch Aberdeenshire , AB52 6LT 07754 714 800 01464 820 908

2 Gordon Street Buckie Aberdeenshire, AB56 1JD 01542 488731 www.perfectmomentsbridal.co.uk perfectmomentsbridal@gmail.com Contact: Ashley Riddell

jayne.davidson1@btinternet.com

The Bridal Boutique X [

01224 211830

Contact: Jayne Davidson

Perfect Collections X Y 268 Holburn Street Aberdeen, AB10 6DD

267 North Deeside Road Peterculter Aberdeen, AB14 0UL 01224 733344 www.thebridalboutiqueaberdeen.com information@thebridalboutiqueaberdeen.com Contact: Claire Coutts

www.perfectbridalrooms.com

MUMS OUTFITS & OCCASIONWEAR

2 Gordon Street Buckie

Angharad Bridal X [

www.perfectmomentsbridal.co.uk

28-30 South Street, Elgin Morayshire, IV30 1JX 01343 546448 07811 088417 www.angharadbridal.co.uk angharadbridal@gmail.com Contact: Angharad Rogers

Brodie Countryfare X Y [

Brodie By Forres Moray, IV36 2TD 01309 641555 www.brodiecountryfare.com sarah@brodiecountryfare.com Contact: Sarah Kinlin

Joyce Young Collections X Y [ \ Design Studio & Showroom Unit 1, 1987 Maryhill Road Glasgow, Scotland, G20 0BT 0141 942 8900 www.joyceyoungcollections.co.uk info@bystorm.co.uk Contact: Joyce Young

perfectbridalrms@aol.com Contact: Alison Waller

Perfect Moments Bridal Boutique X Aberdeenshire, AB56 1JD 01542 488731 perfectmomentsbridal@gmail.com Contact: Ashley Riddell

GROOMSWEAR Georgian Dress Hire X 64 Leadside Road Aberdeen, AB25 1TW 01224 633537 www.georgiandresshire.co.uk georgiandh@gmail.com Contact: David Stephen

Gibbs Inverurie X Y [ 9 Market Place Inverurie, AB51 3PU 01467 624198 www.gibbsmenswear.co.uk barry@gibbsinverurie.co.uk Contact: Barry Gibb & Darren Eggie

McCalls Ltd X Y

15-17 Bridge Street Aberdeen, AB11 6JL 01224 405300 www.mccalls.co.uk sales@mccalls.co.uk Contact: Craig Thom

McCalls Ltd - Elgin X Y 54 South College Street Elgin, IV30 1JX 01343 540590 www.mccalls.co.uk elgin@mccalls.co.uk Contact: Tracy Grant

Phillip King X

256 George Street Aberdeen Aberdeenshire , AB25 1HN 01224 633127 0800 980 1333 www.philip-king.com philipking@writeme.com Contact: Helen Cunningham

Slater Highland Retail X Y [ \

15 Union Street Inverness, IV1 1PP 01463 663350 www.slaters.co.uk contact@slatermenswear.co.uk Contact: Andrew Fraser

Slater Highland Retail X Y [ \

10 Bon Accord Street Aberdeen, AB11 6EL 01224 212334 www.slaters.co.uk contact@slatermenswear.co.uk Contact: William Mckenzie

Slater Menswear X Y [ \

10 Bon Accord Street Aberdeen, AB11 6EL 01224 212334 www.slaters.co.uk contact@slatermenswear.co.uk Contact: William Mackenzie

Slater Menswear X Y [ \

15 Union Street Inverness, IV1 1PP 01463 663350 www.slaters.co.uk contact@slatermenswear.co.uk Contact: Andrew Fraser

Slater Menswear X Y [ \

80 High Street Dundee, DD1 1SD 01382 305141 www.slaters.co.uk contact@slatermenswear.co.uk Contact: David Mooney www.grampianweddingdirectory.co.uk

66

♥

HEADER

Always Classic

You can’t beat classic white for a wedding. Simplicity is back – just look at the elegance of the Duchess of Sussex’s gown and long veil, with its intricate embroidery. Stick to white blooms – roses or lily of the valley set against dark green foliage, and add a lace effect to a multi-layered white wedding cake.

Continue the theme through crisp linen, candlesticks and balloons for the tables. For the flower girls, floral crowns are a classic touch. Then sail off into the sunset in a white Rolls-Royce…

1. www.ivorygrace.co.uk / 2. jamieson-carry.com / 3. www.coutureweddingcakes.co.uk 4. www.brodiecountryfare.com / 5. www.artemisiafloralart.com / 6. www.northeast-events.co.uk 7. & 8. www.highercallingflowersevents.com / 9. www.gingerray.co.uk 10.www.theballoonstudio.co.uk / 11. www.dessy.com / 12. www.florislondon.com / 13. www.ruffleandrose.co.uk

www.grampianweddingdirectory.co.uk

2.

3.

4.

1.

9.

5.

6.

8.

7.

10.

6.

12.

11.

13.

68 68

♥ ♥

BRIDAL HEADER COUTURE

COVER

An online dating success story for sure, Lauren Burnside and Ross Cowling ticked one another’s boxes on Match.com back in 2012.

A four-year relationship followed and Ross popped the question amidst the gorgeous autumnal woodland at The Enchanted Forest in Pitlochry. Their big day took place two years later on 20 October 2018 and we asked Lauren her top tips for brides-to-be… and how her own wedding day went, of course! www.grampianweddingdirectory.co.uk

HEADER

♥

69

STORY

www.grampianweddingdirectory.co.uk

70

♥

HEADER

It’s all about doing it your way and giving yourself time. We took two years between getting engaged and our big day and were lucky enough to get all of our first choices with regards to band, caterer, venue, etc.

Ross, his father and his best man-to-be all worked offshore at the time so our first priority was to pull their rotas together and see how many 2018 weekends were available… I think it was three!

Then we needed a venue for those dates.

We didn’t want a hotel, and it had to be between Aberdeen and Inverness as that’s where the majority of our family are.

I immediately fell in love with the location and views when I visited The Barn at Barra Castle with my bridesmaid, Rachel. The Barn itself wasn’t built yet but Sarah – the owner – was so passionate about what she was creating that you couldn’t help but believe it’d be exactly as she said. Turns out it was even better! The Barn is finished to such a high standard; it’s versatile and just absolutely beautiful.

COVER

Our theme changed a lot throughout the planning process but when I went shopping with my bridesmaids, they fell in love with a navy satin dress. And it suited them both so well that it swung the colour scheme!

So, it was to be navy, white and cream with touches of copper – but we stuck to ‘less is more’ as The Barn was so well-finished that we didn’t want to overdo it.

We wanted only flowers and fairy lights as decoration and tried to do as much as we could ourselves. We sourced the branches for the centrepieces and worked with our florist to create them, whilst my father-inlaw made our postbox, the frame for our Polaroids and our ring box from tree trunks and branches on his building plot.

VENUE: THE BARN AT BARRA CASTLE CATERERS: HUDSONS WEDDING DRESS: AVORIO BRIDAL GROOM’S OUTFIT: MILLSOM & MAIN HAIR: KERRY ANNE HAIRDRESSING MAKE-UP: DONNA MEACHEN MUA BRIDESMAID DRESSES: AVORIO BRIDAL MOTHER-OF-THE-BRIDE OUTFIT: COAST

www.grampianweddingdirectory.co.uk

HEADER

♥

71

When it came to dress shopping, I was nervous… but also excited! I didn’t quite know what I wanted but I knew it wasn’t a simple white gown. It had to make a statement and as soon as I put on my blush dress, we all knew it was the one.

Waking up on the wedding morning to find beautiful weather was such a bonus – especially as it had rained the day before and poured the day after!

The next few hours were surprisingly calm.

I never once felt stressed and ended up being ready early, so Jonathan did some photos with us in the gardens. Anyone who knows me will know I’m not a fan of having my photograph taken, but he put me at ease and managed to take some amazing snaps we’ll always cherish.

We had a humanist ceremony, performed STORY

by Lesley Simpson. We wanted it to be personal with a few laughs, which we got as I was so nervous that I couldn’t get Ross’ name out during my vows. I got there in the end, though!

After drinks, canapés and dinner with our 90 guests, another 50 joined us to enjoy the incredible band that is Bahookie. They performed a ceilidh with a difference, which meant a mash-up of Scottish tunes and modern music, like the The Prodigy and Snoop Dog! They also did a DJ set and everyone loved them.

Later, we had fireworks, which were absolutely amazing – the night was so clear and the display was so impressive!

Overall, the atmosphere was brilliant and we wouldn’t have changed a thing. I’d tell other brides to just enjoy themselves as the day passes so quickly! ♥ PHOTOGRAPHER: JONATHAN ADDIE PHOTOGRAPHY STATIONERY: PAPER SKELETON FAVOURS: LUSH RINGS: ROX CAKE: CAKESBYDESIGN FLOWERS: XOXO FLORIST PIPER: ALBA BAGPIPES BAND: BAHOOKIE FIREWORKS: FIREWORX SCOTLAND LTD

www.grampianweddingdirectory.co.uk

72

♥

JEWELLERY

Diamonds Jewellery & Pearls No wedding is complete without a bit of bling, be it a diamond engagement ring, simple gold wedding bands or a sparkling tiara to hold a veil in place. And you’d be forgiven for thinking that buying engagement and wedding rings is all very simple. Right? Well… it is and it isn’t.

For starters, there’s the question of the engagement ring. First of all, there’s no obligation to have one at all – and some couples are opting not to. Also, it’s not just one for the ladies these days, either – the fellas can have one too. Perhaps not quite so common in the wilds of Scotland, but it’s traditional to exchange engagement rings in Sweden and Chile, whilst in Brazil and Argentina they have plain rings that they swap from the right hand to the left on their wedding day.

www.grampianweddingdirectory.co.uk

JEWELLERY

♥

73

www.grampianweddingdirectory.co.uk

www.aboynephotographics.com

74

♥

JEWELLERY

Men’s rings, though, are becoming more common with the change in the law for same-sex marriages.

If you are going traditional, you have the choice of the groom-to-be shopping solo prior to popping the question – or waiting until the proposal has been accepted (hopefully!) and heading to one of our fine northeast jewellers to sample their stunning wares. And what an amazing range you’ll find on offer…

Considerations will include the metals – rose, white or yellow gold, platinum, titanium, silver or palladium.

Your decision could be based on the sheen, if it’s hypo-allergenic, the hardness, the durability, and the resistance to tarnishing or scratches.

You might also want an unusual design of band, such as beaded contours or a sailor’s knot. Why not go over-the-top romantic and have a heart-shaped ring? And, remember, this is before you get to the gemstones with which to adorn it!

The next factor – dependent on your budget, naturally – will be the number of stones you want.

A single stone is simple and elegant, but you can surround it with a circle of smaller gems, two or more either side of the main one, or embed tiny stones all the way round the band.

www.aboynephotographics.com

www.deesidephoto.co.uk www.deesidephoto.co.uk

HEADER

♥

75

www.grampianweddingdirectory.co.uk

76

♥

JEWELLERY

www.simonclubb.com

Diamonds are, of course, still very popular for engagements rings but, increasingly, coloured sparklers are coming to the fore. Pink stones are in thanks to those sported by Lady Gaga and Princess Eugenie, or you can go for other traditional dazzlers like rubies, sapphires and emeralds. Alternatively, there’s semi-precious – think peridot and tourmaline – or bag yourself a coloured diamond – yellow, perhaps.

But don’t forget, when picking your stone, to consider its clarity as well as its colour, and check the carats as that has an impact on the price. www.grampianweddingdirectory.co.uk

HEADER

♥

77

DESIGN I MANUFACTURE I REPAIR

For more than three decades, Sandy Menzies has been delighting engaged couples and newlyweds in Aberdeen with his passion for creating bespoke and imaginative handmade jewellery.

But now it’s time for something new…

His unique design solution will see him move his workflow from handmade manufacture to Computer Aided Design, marrying the latest digital technology with superb setting and finishing techniques – plus the high-quality service he’s known for.

• Fancy a Celtic knot design? An intricate texture or pattern? Some special words on your jewellery?

Or do you have an unusually-shaped stone? No request is too big or small for this clever tech!

• You’ll get a more accurate price estimate – perfect for satisfying that budget spreadsheet!

• Be prepared to fall in love with your sparkler before it’s even made during your official 3D preview.

From drawing to reality T 07889 503337 E sandy@sandymenziesjewellery.co.uk www.sandymenziesjewellery.co.uk www.grampianweddingdirectory.co.uk

78

♥

JEWELLERY

www.byrhea.co.uk

The final ‘c’ you need to focus on is the cut.

There’s a dizzying array of choices here, but it’ll all boil down to personal taste – no matter what the current trends. Jennifer Lopez is sporting an emerald cut following her recent engagement, but you could go for square or pear, round brilliant, baguette, marquise, heart, princess or oval. There’s even a cushion cut!

While ‘something new’ might be right up your street, for others a little vintage bling is more their thing. Some families may pass on an heirloom to the new bride-to-be, or you can hunt around for an antique band. Art deco styles are both beautiful and unusual designs, or maybe you’d prefer a Victorian setting. Just ensure that the fit is good and, when you come to buy your wedding rings, that they complement one another not only in style, but also in compatible metals. www.grampianweddingdirectory.co.uk

www.sandymenziesjewellery.co.uk/

HEADER

♥

79

www.grampianweddingdirectory.co.uk

80

♥

JEWELLERY

www.jenniferriddell.co.uk

Wedding bands can come in many ornate designs too. Vintage ring styles are on trend at the moment, with pave settings for diamonds or a mill grain edge for the ladies. For the men, the addition of black diamonds can add a unique twist or they can add wood or another natural material to make the design their own. Couples are also putting secret (or not so) messages into their rings, with inscriptions such as the date of the ceremony, their initials or a meaningful phrase or word that is only significant to them.

The options are extensive.

If you find that the ‘off the peg’ bands don’t have the zing to make your hearts sing, however, you can always go bespoke. Working with a

www.aberdeenphoto.com

www.grampianweddingdirectory.co.uk

www.janiebarclay.com

local designer means you can have a true set of originals to mark your special day. They’ll advise on stones and settings, keeping within whatever budget you have, and create rings that incorporate elements that mean the most to you as a couple, using their expertise to guide you smoothly through the whole process.

While rings are at the centre of wedding ceremonies, don’t forget you can add other jewellery to your finery, exchanging them with your beloved as gifts on the day. Brides could delight their partners with some stylish cufflinks, while grooms can add earrings, necklaces and bracelets to match the rings.

www.aboynephotographics.com

HEADER

♥

81

www.grampianweddingdirectory.co.uk

82

♥

JEWELLERY

www.aberdeenphoto.com

www.deesidephoto.co.uk

www.aberdeenphoto.com

This season, while simplicity in dresses is in, the opposite is true for trinkets and charms. Drop earrings add some drama – vintage or hoop, and necklaces can loop around whatever your neckline. Chokers are a possibility and pearl accessories seem to be hot property, too. You might want to consider a bejewelled belt and, tiaras aside, diamond-encrusted headbands – to hold your veil in place or sweep your hair back sleekly – are surging in popularity as well.

Earrings and cufflinks would also make excellent thank-you presents for your support team, but don’t feel limited to jewellery when it comes to fine gifts on your wedding day. The groomsmen www.grampianweddingdirectory.co.uk

www.aberdeenphoto.com

might enjoy a wee dram from a silver hip flask, engraved to commemorate the occasion, for example. Or kit all the fellas out with matching kilt pins if they’re wearing the full Highland rigout. An extra dash of sartorial elegance could include tie pins, as well, with a slight difference in those for the groom to make him stand out from the crowd.

To toast each other, you could invest in your own quaich of silver or pewter – with horn or wood if you wish. They can be engraved with the family crest if you’ve got one, and include beautifully intricate Celtic designs or mottos, or stag’s head handles. And they’ll provide a lasting memento of your big day. ♥

HEADER

♥

83

www.grampianweddingdirectory.co.uk

84

♥

BEAUTY

Primped & Beauty Preened

To match the dazzling couture you’re going to be wearing on your big day, you’ll want to look your best from top to tail. Hair, make-up, nails, teeth, body… polishing every aspect of yourself will ensure you’re pretty as a picture – in all your pictures!

www.grampianweddingdirectory.co.uk

www.aboynephotographics.com

BEAUTY

♥

85

www.jonathanaddie.com

For a top team of preeners and primpers, you’ll need to be off the mark quick. The best sculptors and polishers in the northeast are well sought after and can have their diaries booked many, many months in advance – especially in high season. If a particular hair stylist or make-up artist has caught your eye, get in touch with them pronto to see if they’re free on your wedding date to avoid disappointment.

www.grampianweddingdirectory.co.uk

86

♥

BEAUTY

Obviously, you’ll want to factor in a trial of both your hairdo and make-up ahead of the big day, just to have an idea of timings – especially if there’s anything complicated to do, such as an intricate updo, or a bandeau, tiara or veil to accommodate.

If the bridal squad are included in proceedings, you could use this as a chance for a spot of prewedding fun and throw in a dress fitting at the same time. That’ll give you an idea of how things will work out on the day.

And if you’re definitely including all the bridal party in the package, check about deals for a group, and extra personnel to help on the day. Be sure you’ve met everyone involved so you feel comfortable with them, and ask about any associated extra costs, including travel to and from your venue.

www.aberdeenphoto.com

www.byrhea.co.uk

www.elitephotographics.co.uk

www.elitephotographics.co.uk

www.elitephotographics.co.uk

www.grampianweddingdirectory.co.uk

HEADER

♼

87

Beautiful Beaming Big day, big smile At Fergus & Glover, we can help you have the perfect smile on your perfect day. From dental implants and cosmetic dentistry through to a full range of advanced facial treatments, we have the expertise to put more white into your white wedding.

Call us 01224 644876 to discuss your free cosmetic consultation.

We’d love to see you smiling in your wedding photographs.

www.fergusandglover.co.uk

Aberdeen & Glasgow www.grampianweddingdirectory.co.uk

♥

BEAUTY

www.byrhea.co.uk

88

www.grampianweddingdirectory.co.uk

BEAUTY

♥

89

www.elitephotographics.co.uk

It’s also worth finding out about making your hair shine and your skin sparkle. Ask for some advice about products to thicken and/or nourish your hair, so it’s at its glossy best, and what you can use to polish your skin, improving its tone and sheen. You want to bedazzle your guests with your glamour!

To be on trend this season, hair can be in a chic chignon, super sleek and pulled back; half up and half down; with a fringe or tendrils framing the face; or no care with an undone bun.

For a subtle change in look, you could try a centre parting. To accessorise, go regal with bandeaus and towering tiaras. Alternatively, add a statement hat or florals.

Make-up ideas involve luminous skin – use a foundation with a dewy finish for an all-over glow; and rosy hues, such as ruby lips and pink tints.

Follow the copper metallic vibe with bronzed eyelids, and flirt outrageously with winged eyeliner.

www.grampianweddingdirectory.co.uk

90

♥

BEAUTY

For some added de-stressing, you could always organise a spa day just before the main event.

For both the guys and the gals, indulge in some luxuriant pampering, getting all the pre-wedding stresses and strains out of your muscles with a deep tissue massage, whilst manicures and pedicures can add to the polished perfection you’re aiming for. If nothing else, it’s guaranteed down time from the hurly-burly of wedding prep.

Looking for pearly brilliance in those photos?

Pop along to a specialist dentist to ask about whitening, straightening and other procedures to get those enamel gems gleaming in time. www.aberdeenphoto.com

www.grampianweddingdirectory.co.uk

www.aboynephotographics.com

www.byrhea.co.uk

HEADER

♥

91

www.grampianweddingdirectory.co.uk

♥

BEAUTY

www.deesidephoto.co.uk

92

GOSIA WEISS

Experienced, professional and fun, make up artist based in Aberdeenshire, serving Grampian and global destinations.

07922 433753

Using only premium brand products and a unique airbrush application to create a timeless and long lasting look suited to your individual style.

MAKEUP ARTIST

WWW.GOSIAWEISSMAKEUPARTIST.CO.UK www.grampianweddingdirectory.co.uk

BEAUTY

♥

93

www.jenniferriddell.co.uk

For trimming and toning the body, check out what the local gyms have in terms of fitness and weight loss programmes. Aside from losing pounds in the run-up to your big day so that your stylish clothes fit beautifully, it can also help you kick-start a healthier lifestyle and increase your energy reserves in preparation for a day of celebration. It’s also a handy way to blow off steam and focus on something other than your table plan.

www.aboynephotographics.com

One last little nugget for groomed perfection – get your pooch clipped and combed if they’re part of your day. That way they can perform their duties with class! ♥

www.grampianweddingdirectory.co.uk

94

♼

FLOWERS

Blooming Flowers Buds

When you think of wedding flowers, no doubt bouquets and centrepieces spring to mind. However, there’s so much more that you can use blooms for to create a special atmosphere on your big day. From swings to archways, and crowns to spectacular floral installations, you can really add a dash of drama to yourself, your ceremony and your reception!

www.grampianweddingdirectory.co.uk

www.aberdeenphoto.com

FLOWERS

♥

95

The

Flower Shop P E T E R H E A D

Bringing the personal touch to all our customers, whatever the size of your wedding.

www.elitephotographics.co.uk

Of course, the bridal bouquets are a longstanding favourite – as well as buttonholes for the fellas. Traditionally white’s the colour of choice, but as customs are tossed to the wind these days, couples are breaking with the past to pick a different cast of flowers. Pastels are in for summer, with scented stocks, sweet peas and garden roses tipped to be a hit – think ice cream colours! Alternatively, plump for taupe for a ‘naked’ tone to the whole affair, matching the trend for naked cakes.

Peonies are still a popular choice for posies, but they’ve a limited shelf life – from April/May to late June. If you’re following the eco trend of only using seasonal and local flowers, this means you’ll have to consider others for late summer or autumn. Of course, the northeast’s florists can guide you in your selections, but dahlias are good for late summer. Or try ranunculi – that’s buttercups and celandine – in winter or spring.

These delicately multi-layered blooms come in pinks, peaches and deep purples, and can be mixed to stunning effect.

1 Erroll St, Peterhead, AB42 1PU 01779 474318 fpi

www.theflowershop.org.uk

www.grampianweddingdirectory.co.uk

96

♥

FLOWERS

www.aboynephotographics.com

www.grampianweddingdirectory.co.uk

FLOWERS

♥

97

www.byrhea.co.uk

Remember you can always DIY – just pick some flowers from your own garden. Pansies and violas, tea roses, daisies and nasturtiums can provide vibrant colours for decorating your reception tables. If it’s spring, there’s always daffodils and crocuses, too. Or go wild and check the grass verges or woods for red poppies, blue cornflowers, pink and white yarrow, bluebells, harebells and lily of the valley. A great way to bring the outdoors in – a hot trend for 2019.

in popularity as couples become more eco-

To be ever more environmentally friendly, go foam-free for your table displays. Growing

– and maybe a light snack if you get peckish?

conscious, the non-biodegradable foam used to fix and hydrate floral decorations is slowing being phased out of use.

And if you fancy going organic, why not include fruits, seeds and grasses? Imperfectly beautiful with uneven and natural shapes and tones, adding brambles and other hedgerow fruits to buttonholes or a shower bouquet can add depth Just make sure the fruit’s ripe!

Creative Wedding Floristry Artemisia Floral Art, 351 George Street, Aberdeen AB25 1EQ t 01224 637122 e nora@artemisiafloralart.com www.artemisiafloralart.com www.grampianweddingdirectory.co.uk

98

♼

www.deesidephoto.co.uk

FLOWERS

www.jonathanaddie.com

www.jonathanaddie.com

www.aberdeenphoto.com

www.grampianweddingdirectory.co.uk

www.elitephotographics.co.uk

FLOWERS

♥

99

www.janiebarclay.com

www.byrhea.co.uk

Installations are big news after the magnificent impact they made at a certain royal wedding last year. If you’re marrying outdoors, you could add an archway at the entrance to your ceremony, mixing deep green foliage with seasonal blooms.

For extra wow factor, choose a flower chandelier at the reception. And, as an unusual prop or backdrop for photos (especially off-guard shots of the guests sitting on it), how about a swing?

Check with your florist about the essentials – delivery times, what’s in season on your day, costs of setting up, etc. And put some thought to afterwards – do you want to preserve some of your flowers, for example? Alternatively, arrange for them to be taken to a local hospice or care home for the residents to enjoy. ♥

www.grampianweddingdirectory.co.uk

100

♼

HEADER

ACCESSORIES Angharad Bridal X [ 28-30 South Street, Elgin Morayshire, IV30 1JX 01343 546448 / 07811 088417 www.angharadbridal.co.uk angharadbridal@gmail.com Contact: Angharad Rogers

Avorio Bridal X Y [

91 High Street Fochabers, IV30 7DH 01343 821444 www.avoriobridal.com info@avoriobridal.com Contact: Leigh-anne Murray & Sonia Pozzi

Blush Bridal X [

42 Frithside Street Fraserburgh Aberdeenshire, AB43 9AR 01346 516851 www.blushbridal.scot info@blushbridal.scot Contact: Diane Stephen

Brodie Countryfare X Y [

Brodie By Forres Moray, IV36 2TD 01309 641555 www.brodiecountryfare.com sarah@brodiecountryfare.com Contact: Sarah Kinlin

Nina Edge Designs

32 Beltie Road Torphins Aberdeenshire, AB31 4JT 013398 82315 www.ninaedgedesign.co.uk nina.edge@btinternet.com Contact: Nina Edge

Perfect Bridal Room X Y [ 265-267 Holburn Street Aberdeen, AB10 7FL 01224 574141 www.perfectbridalrooms.com perfectbridalrms@aol.com Contact: Alison Waller

Perfect Collections X Y

268 Holburn Street Aberdeen, AB10 6DD 01224 211830 www.perfectbridalrooms.com perfectbridalrms@aol.com Contact: Alison Waller

Perfect Moments Bridal Boutique X 2 Gordon Street Buckie Aberdeenshire, AB56 1JD 01542 488731 www.perfectmomentsbridal.co.uk perfectmomentsbridal@gmail.com Contact: Ashley Riddell

The Bridal Boutique X [

267 North Deeside Road Peterculter Aberdeen, AB14 0UL 01224 733344 www.thebridalboutiqueaberdeen.com information@thebridalboutiqueaberdeen.com Contact: Claire Coutts www.grampianweddingdirectory.co.uk www.aboynephotographics.com

T H E D I R E C T O RY

101

CO M PA N Y PRO F I L ES - C O M PL ET E T HE L O O K

BEAUTY

FLOWERS

Ardoe House Hotel & Spa X Y [

Aberflora X

Cali Beauty X [

Artemisia Floral Art X

South Deeside Road Blairs Aberdeen, AB12 5YP 01224 860600 www.mercure.com/gb/hotel-6626-mercureaberdeen-ardoe-house Contact: Louise Donald

89 Victoria Road Aberdeen, AB11 9LU 01224 876693 / 01224 879866 www.aberflora.com/ aberflora89@gmail.com Contact: Fiona Hamilton

Elevator Business Centre Westhill Aberdeenshire, AB32 6UF 01224 330 566 www.calibeauty.co.uk eilidh_ray30@hotmail.com Contact: Eilidh Ray

351 George Street Aberdeenm AB25 1EQ 01224 637 122 / 07983 341 237 www.artemisiafloralart.com nora@artemisiafloralart.com Contact: Alan Hudson

Elaine Stables Make-up Artist X

South Esk Place Dyce Aberdeen, AB21 7DJ 01224 772424 www.floristaberdeen.net/ audrey@audstar.co.uk Contact: Audrey Ross

49 Fairview Parade Danestone Aberdeen, AB22 8ZX 07921 905991 elainestablesmua@outlook.com Contact: Elaine Stables

Fergus And Glover X [

Leigh House 160 Union Street Aberdeen, AB10 1QT 01224 644876 www.fergusandglover.co.uk mikey@fergusandglover.co.uk Contact: Mikey Bateman

Audstar X

Floral Design X

25-27 High Street Inverurie , AB51 3QA 01467 621254 www.floraldesigninverurie.co.uk elsleyfloraldesign@hotmail.co.uk Contact: Lesley Muir

The Flower Shop X [

1 Erroll Street Peterhead Aberdeenshire, AB42 1PU 01779 474318 www.theflowershop.org.uk enquiries@theflowershop.org.uk Contact: Amy Buchan

JEWELLERY Avorio Bridal X Y [

91 High Street Fochabers, IV30 7DH 01343 821444 www.avoriobridal.com info@avoriobridal.com Contact: Leigh-Anne Murray & Sonia Pozzi

Jamieson And Carry X Y [

142 Union Street Aberdeen, AB10 1GF 01224 641219 www.jamieson-carry.com enquiries@jamieson-carry.com Contact: Philip Carry & Tracy Hanton

Lava Jewellery Design X

19 Burnwood Drive Newmacher, AB21 0NW 01651 862646 www.flowersbyjudith.co.uk judith@flowersbyjudith.co.uk Contact: Judith Macsween

265 North Deeside Road Peterculter Aberdeen, AB140UL 01224 735000 07847 056 661 www.lavajewellery.co.uk info@lavajewellery.co.uk Contact: Jacqui Grant

Flowers By TX X [

McCalls Jewellery X Y

Westhill Aberdeenshire 07927 255411 www.nataliefearnley.com natalie.fearnley@gmail.com Contact: Natalie Fearnley

Millden House East, Ellon Raod, Balmedie, Aberdeenshire, AB23 8YY 01358 743912/07795 244308 www.flowersbytx.com tracyleiper21@talktalk.net Contact: Tracy Leiper

Rebecca Carr Hair Salon X [

Flowers With Flair X

Perfect Bridal Room X Y [

Gosia Weiss Make Up Artist X Y

Mobile, Also Works From Home 07922 433 753 gosiaweissmakeupartist.co.uk i nfo@gosiaweissmakeupartist.co.uk Contact: Gosia Weiss

Natalie Fearnley Make Up Artist X [

Unit 1 Midmill Parade Kintore, Aberdeenshire, AB51 0UY 01467 632865 www.rebeccacarrhairsalon.co.uk info@rebeccacarrhairsalon.co.uk Contact: Rebecca Carr

The Orthodontic Clinic X Y

21 Golden Square Aberdeen, AB10 1RE 01224 611633 www.theorthodonticclinic.co.uk info@theorthodonticclinic.co.uk Contact: Dr Lisa Currie & Ivin Tan

Village Hotel Club, Aberdeen X Y

Prime Four Kingswells Aberdeen, AB15 8PJ 01224 974580 www.village-hotels.co.uk/hotels/aberdeen/ china.rahul@village-hotel.com Contact: China Rahul & Karen Day

Flowers By Judith X [

4 Middleton Crescent Bridge Of Don Aberdeen, AB22 8HY 01224 820603 www.flowers-with-flair.com shelagh@flowerswithflair.eu Contact: Shelagh Melvin

Higher Calling Flowers & Events X Y [ \ Unit 4 Stell Road, Aberdeen, AB11 5QR 07984 737482 www.highercallingflowersevents.com info@highercallingflowersevents.com Contact: Edna Mordi

Rosie’s Florist X

41 High Street Banchory Aberdeenshire, AB31 5TJ 01330 822808 www.rosies-florist.com rosie@rosies-florist.com Contact: Rosie Scully

11 Bridge Street Aberdeen, AB11 6JL 01224 405303 www.mccallsjewellers.co.uk jewellery@mccalls.co.uk Contact: Karen Pirie 265-267 Holburn Street Aberdeen, AB10 7FL 01224 574141 www.perfectbridalrooms.com perfectbridalrms@aol.com Contact: Alison Waller

Sandy Menzies Jewellery X

Aberdeen 07889 503337 www.sandymenziesjewellery.co.uk sandymenzies@btinternet.com Contact: Sandy Menzies

Sinclairs Jewellers X[

63 Market Place Inverurie, AB51 3PY 01467 620275 www.sinclairsjewellers.co.uk info@sinclairsjewellers.co.uk Contact: Ian Sinclair www.grampianweddingdirectory.co.uk

102

♥

HEADER

Coral Me Beautiful To be on trend this year, go for a wedding based on Pantone’s 2019 hot pick – Living Coral! Start with your flowers, adding dramatic dahlias to your bouquet and centrepieces. For the reception, how about some neon signs and a balloon wall in coral tints and tones?

Bridesmaids can wear floaty dresses in a selection of shades, from light peach to deeper oranges, and source pink coral wood for favours or gemstones for handmade jewellery for the bride.

1. jamieson-carry.com / 2. www.blushbridal.scot / 3. www.coutureweddingcakes.co.uk/ 4. www.blushbridal.scot / 5. www.michaelkors.co.uk / 6. www.yslbeauty.co.uk 7. www.youareinvited.me.uk/ / 8. www.entier-services.com/wilde-thyme

www.grampianweddingdirectory.co.uk

HEADER

1.

♥

103

2.

3.

4.

5.

6.

7.

8.

104

♥

CASTLES & STATELY HOMES

Elegant Castles Estates

If trotting up a grand avenue in an open carriage – flanked by a guard of honour on horseback – towards the imposing towers of your own version of Windsor Castle appeals to you, then you’re in luck… For Aberdeenshire is Scotland’s own ‘Castle Country’, according to VisitScotland, with over 300 castles, stately homes and ruins scattered across the countryside – that’s more per acre than anywhere else in the UK, apparently!

www.grampianweddingdirectory.co.uk

www.elitephotographics.co.uk

CASTLES & STATELY HOMES

♥

105

VENUES 104 CASTLES & STATELY HOMES 118 VENUES & MARQUEES 122 HOTELS 142 ACCOMMODATION 146 COMPANY PROFILES

www.grampianweddingdirectory.co.uk

106

♥

CASTLES & STATELY HOMES

www.elitephotographics.co.uk

With a selection of architectural styles dating back as far as the 13th century, you can indulge in historical fantasies from the gothic to the Victorian for your upcoming nuptials. And you’ll have instantly dramatic canvases for your photographer to draw on when creating memorable wedding shots… sweeping staircases, stone fireplaces, portrait galleries, manicured lawns, ornamental gardens, turrets and towers – you’ll be spoilt for choice!

www.elitephotographics.co.uk

www.wardhillcastle.co.uk

www.grampianweddingdirectory.co.uk

Be Distinctive, Be Yourself...

Ballogie House, Aboyne, Royal Deeside AB34 5DT Tel:013398 86497 I Email: weddings@ballogie-estate.co.uk www.ballogie-estate.co.uk

108

♥

CASTLES & STATELY HOMES

Whether under the guardianship of charities, such as the National Trust for Scotland, or privately owned, these venues have planners ready to help you create the day – or even weekend – of your dreams, and a list of trusted suppliers that they work with to save you a bit of research.

www.aboynephotographics.com www.grampianweddingdirectory.co.uk

www.grampianweddingdirectory.co.uk

110

♥

CASTLES & STATELY HOMES

www.deesidephoto.co.uk

www.janiebarclay.com

www.grampianweddingdirectory.co.uk

CASTLES & STATELY HOMES

♥

111

Be mindful, however, when making up your shortlist of preferred locations, to consider if they can accommodate your whole guest list. While some will have the benefit of extensive grounds and, therefore, space for a marquee to deal with a larger wedding party, others may not. If you can’t find the exact information you need from their website, give them a ring. It can help save you from disappointment and allow you to whittle down the possibles.

Another factor is accessibility. Many of these venues are off the beaten track, so you’ll have to figure out how to get everyone there – not just the bridal party, but also your guests and any outside suppliers. Ask if they can provide accommodation on site for you and your backup team at least. A few may have holiday lets available, but get advice from the wedding organisers about places round about that they can recommend.

Turn your wedding day into a weekend celebration!

©James Kelly

Set at the foot of Bennachie on estate lands dating back to 1492, Logie Country House is the perfect wedding venue. We can host small, intimate weddings in the 1680s house, or larger weddings in our new purpose built ballroom, all expertly arranged by Hudsons Catering. The entire house, sleeping up to 40, is exclusively yours for up to three days and nights and includes use of our indoor infinity pool, cinema, courtyards, outdoor hot tubs and private island.

www.LogieCountryHouse.co.uk 08450 942424 I weddings@logiecountryhouse.co.uk f facebook.com/LogieCountryHouse I Logie Country House Pitcaple Inverurie AB51 5EE

www.grampianweddingdirectory.co.uk

112

♼

CASTLES & STATELY HOMES

www.aboynephotographics.com

Remember, if you’re decorating the venue yourselves, that

historic buildings can have

restrictions regarding changes to the fabric of the building.

www.byrhea.co.uk

www.grampianweddingdirectory.co.uk

www.elitephotographics.co.uk

SECTION HEADER

♼

113

Why have a Wedding Day when you can have a Wedding Weekend!

Raemoir taken by Aeroserv

Dating from the 17th century Raemoir is a welcoming and authentic Scottish hideaway, truly magnificent in stature.

This exclusive use Mansion House and Estate combine to make the perfect retreat for your day of days where the full complement of staff provide bespoke experiences, tailormade to your requirements be it a small intimate affair in the grand house itself or for larger events using our clearspan Marquee with views over the gardens.

14 acres of private and secluded grounds, with direct access to the surrounding countryside, ensure you and your photographer are spoiled for choice when looking for that unique backdrop opportunity.

Taken by Deeside Photographics

Yours exclusively any day or days of the week, our 18 ensuite bedrooms provide flexibility to allow at least 34 guests to stay with, more if you wish, and our award winning kitchen makes the best use of locally sourced and foraged products to ensure that our history of 2 Rosette and Michelin recommended cuisine continues as an integral part of your Raemoir experience.

Banchory, Aberdeenshire AB31 4ED 01330 824884 I hotel@raemoir.com www.raemoir.com www.grampianweddingdirectory.co.uk Exclusively yours, at an all inclusive price

114

♥

CASTLES & STATELY HOMES

www.jonathanaddie.com

It’s also a good idea to hire a coach to take everyone to and fro, especially if they’re not local. And see what’s in place for those with mobility issues – a place with lots of stairs but no lift might not suit your particular needs.

Also, if you plan to bring in your own caterers, you’ll need to put them in touch with the venue to find out about on-site facilities for food prep and cooking. And find out what’s provided in terms of tableware and furniture for the reception within any package, in case that needs to be sourced. www.grampianweddingdirectory.co.uk

www.jonathanaddie.com

HEADER

♼

115

Neal Murray Photography

Nicholas Frost Photography

For the Love of Scotland northeastweddings@nts.org.uk

01330 844 813 The National Trust for Scotland is a Scottish charity, SC007410

nts.org.uk www.grampianweddingdirectory.co.uk

116

♥

CASTLES & STATELY HOMES

www.byrhea.co.uk

Remember, if you’re decorating the venue yourselves, that historic buildings can have restrictions regarding changes to the fabric of the building.

For preservation reasons, flash photography indoors might be unacceptable, for example. Then

www.deesidephoto.co.uk www.deesidephoto.co.uk

www.grampianweddingdirectory.co.uk

there may be environmental concerns, such as no fireworks to protect the wildlife. Be guided by the experts so you know what’s allowable.

The outdoor spaces can be a boon, however, providing room

for guests to mingle between the ceremony and reception, and some places also have activities available to occupy the children. Or why not arrange for some lawn games? Croquet and skittles followed by crumpets and tea, anyone? ♥

CASTLES & STATELY HOMES

♥

117

www.drumtochtycastle.com

www.grampianweddingdirectory.co.uk

118

♥

VENUES & MARQUEES

Definitely Venues Different

Thanks to the laws in Scotland allowing you to marry almost anywhere now, couples can entertain some fairly unusual ideas for the location of their wedding. From a sandy beach to the banks of a waterfall, from a lighthouse to the ruins of a medieval cathedral, there’s somewhere out there to capture even the wildest of imaginations…

www.grampianweddingdirectory.co.uk

www.aboynephotographics.com

VENUES & MARQUEES

♥

119

www.deesidephoto.co.uk

For something less open to the elements, however, you do have wonderful options in the northeast to pick from. If you fancy a DIY-style event, you could rent a community hall or a barn and decorate it yourself. Great for keeping costs down, but you’ll need to think about catering…

Some places may have on-site cooking facilities but, if not, talk to your caterers about alternative arrangements for hot food – maybe they can bring equipment in.

Alternatively, you could go for a posh restaurant, solving the food puzzle at a stroke. With kitchen facilities already sorted, plus great chefs and produce to draw on, not only you can discuss a sumptuous menu, but you might also manage to throw in stunning views if you pick one in the shire.

If the elements don’t bother you or you’ve bribed the weather gods to ensure a gloriously sunshiny day, why not marry in your back garden? Should you only have a tiny square of patio, though, perhaps a chum has a bit more space…? Pitch a marquee if you want some cover, and have fun turning it into whatever you want – 1920s speakeasy, the Batcave, a spaceship… anything, basically!

Ask the local experts for the best marquees, which are amazingly varied – and complete the effect with a dance floor, decorating the garden with fairy lights, Chinese lanterns or balloons as your theme dictates. Then enjoy a relaxing day knowing you can get ready at home, with everything and everyone you need to hand. Also saves on transport!

www.grampianweddingdirectory.co.uk

120

♥

VENUES & MARQUEES

www.aboynephotographics.com

Other outdoor options could include the banks of the Dee or the Don, or the shore of Loch Muick. If you love the Scottish hills, why not take your vows on Bennachie or Cairn Gorm? For something more medieval, there’s the ruins of Elgin Cathedral – just one example of a historic site available locally for an unusual and romantic location for your wedding. A plan B in case of a change in the weather is a good idea, though!

Got a transport enthusiast in the mix? A word of caution, then… You can get married on a train – or a historic ship, a car, a plane or the number 8 bus!

– but, in order for it to be legal, they must be at a standstill when you make your vows.

www.byrhea.co.uk

As we always say at GWD, do your homework before plunging ahead with your plans. Unusual wedding venues are fabulous and we’re lucky to have great flexibility in Scotland when it comes to choosing where to marry. Just make sure all bases are covered – celebrant, caterers, photographers, contingency plans – so all goes smoothly. If anything, you need to be more prepared for these locations – you can’t nip back for your shoes if you’re halfway up a hill.

Whether you choose your favourite distillery or the pitch at your team’s stadium, preparation is the key to a magnificent day! ♥

Stunning Wedding Venue Amazing Food Beautiful Countryside

www.cowshedrestaurant.co.uk Raemoir Road I Banchory I AB31 5QB t 01330 820813

www.grampianweddingdirectory.co.uk

www.meldrumhouse.com

www.grampianweddingdirectory.co.uk

122

♥

HOTELS

HighHotels flying Hotels With two of this issue’s fabulous feature couples tying the knot at Aberdeen’s luxurious Norwood Hall, it felt only fitting to give a shout out to all of our fantastic local hotels and remind our readers that these varied venues can offer truly wonderful weddings…

We have an extensive choice to satisfy even the pickiest of Bridezillas We’re so lucky in the northeast to boast an incredible variety of hotels that cater flexibly to big and small weddings, whether you plan to make use of them for the whole day, as a reception venue only or even for a post-wedding celebration if you’ve tied the knot abroad.

www.grampianweddingdirectory.co.uk

HOTELS

♥

123

www.grampianweddingdirectory.co.uk www.jonathanaddie.com

124

♥

HOTELS

For example, if you’re looking for a large, ultra-stylish get-together in the heart of the West End, then head to The Chester Hotel on Aberdeen’s prestigious Queen’s Road. Or, if you’ve a host of guests flying in and somewhere near where they land would be of great benefit to them, then give Aberdeen Marriott Hotel or Jury’s Inn Aberdeen Airport a call.

Alternatively, if you’re planning a traditional affair and a high-end hotel with scenic views is your preference, take your pick from the likes of Banchory Lodge Hotel, Meldrum House Country Hotel and the Mercure Aberdeen Ardoe House Hotel & Spa. Of course, these are just a small handful of what Grampian has to offer… but it certainly whets the appetite!

Top tip: Struggling to choose the best hotel for you?

www.elitephotographics.co.uk

How about writing a list of priorities, categorised into crucial, important and nice-to-have? Ask whether each venue can fulfil these elements and, if you need to give up some ‘nice-to-haves’, it won’t be the end of the world, but you can ensure your crucial wishes will be met.

You’ll have access to a highly experienced right-hand man – or woman

www.meldrumhouse.com www.banchorylodge.com

Most hotels, as standard, provide some sort of wedding planning service and will introduce you to their in-house wedding coordinators – if you’re lucky, there may even be a team of them, ready to attend to your every need! This means you can breathe a sigh of relief as they take as much of the organisation off your hands as you like, from producing the running order to liaising with suppliers on your behalf. But, of course, you have every right to still get involved if you’re going to be more control freak than chilled out when it comes to the arrangements.

It’ll be a comfort to have them around on the big day, too, because you’ll have been working with them for months by then and they’ll be fully behind your vision, focused on delivering the day of your dreams.

This means, also, that they’ll be on hand to avert any last-minute disasters (the florist running late or the sound system being iffy, for example), leaving you stress-free for the most important moments.

www.grampianweddingdirectory.co.uk

HEADER

♥

125

PALM COURT

happily The start of your

ever after

palmcourthotel.co.uk T:01224 310351 81 seafield R oad, Aberdeen AB15 7YX www.grampianweddingdirectory.co.uk

126

♥

HOTELS

www.aberdeenphoto.com

Top tip:

Your wedding coordinator will be a godsend but do remember to check what happens if they’re on holiday or sick at a crucial time – especially on the big day!

You’ll have so many bits and bobs supplied as standard Most hotels offer fantastic packages for newly engaged couples, which means you don’t have to think about hiring too much in. In booking a blank canvas venue, for instance, you’d potentially need to source tables, chairs, crockery, glassware and www.grampianweddingdirectory.co.uk

table linen; but with a handy hotel, that’s usually all taken care of.

This also means that budgeting can be a bit simpler. You can quickly calculate your costs based on the price per head multiplied by the number of guests you plan to host. Plus, you can often wangle a wee glass of bubbly with your deal!

The packages are usually flexible with mix and match options. Perhaps you just want the basics or maybe you’d like to take them up on supplying décor that complements the surroundings as well?

HEADER

♥

127

www.grampianweddingdirectory.co.uk

128

♥

HOTELS

Top tip: When it’s time to sign on the dotted

line, take time to read the terms and conditions.

Take note of details like cancellation fees and damage costs and, if there’s anything you’re still not sure about, don’t be afraid to ask for an additional sit-down before sealing the deal. Do query hidden costs too – is there a surcharge for keeping the bar open for an extra hour, for example?

Your suppliers could already be experts on their surroundings Hotel weddings have been and always will be popular, so it’s likely some of your suppliers may have worked at your chosen venue before. This can be a big bonus for the likes of photographers and videographers, who’ll already be well versed on the best spots to capture the newlyweds and their entourage.

Likewise, florists, hairdressers and make-up artists will be able to march straight to the bridal prep suite in the morning if they’ve been there many times before, so no there’ll be no getting lost or turning up late.

www.aboynephotographics.com

Our air-conditioned Ballroom is tastefully decorated so you can host your wedding reception in comfort and style. With a large dance floor and a bar inside the room, you will also have the perfect surroundings for your evening celebrations, accommodating up to 250 guests.

A WONDERFUL START TO YOUR JOURNEY TOGETHER In addition, our Premier suite is perfect for a small intimate dinner or even your wedding ceremony.

We promise that our dedicated staff will take care of your every need. We will provide you with your own wedding co-ordinator to make sure that nothing is overlooked and we will only ever have one wedding per day, ensuring that you are in the best possible hands.

+44 (0) 122 472 5252

www.jurysinns.com Argyll Road, Aberdeen AB21 0AF

Aberdeen Airport

www.grampianweddingdirectory.co.uk

www.skene-house.co.uk

ft

HEADER

♥

129

www.grampianweddingdirectory.co.uk

130

♥

HOTELS

www.elitephotographics.co.uk

Top tip:

As you source suppliers, it’s good to put them directly in touch with the venue so they don’t have to liaise through you – another tick off the list!

You have the option to totally skip the DIY décor element and walk into a wedding-ready venue – or not Hotels weddings are often organised in such a way that the bride and groom don’t have to lift a finger – you can look at images of past celebrations there and decide on everything, from the colour of your napkins to the type of dance floor that may be installed. This means you can spend the days leading up to your nuptials relaxing and avoid the midnight madness the night before, hanging bunting and fairy lights until the early hours of the morning.

However, if DIY details appeal to some extent, there’s no reason you can’t go full steam ahead with them! Most hotels will be delighted to accommodate additional enhancements that’ll really make the space – and the day – personal to you as a couple. www.grampianweddingdirectory.co.uk

www.janiebarclay.com

HEADER

♼

131

Macdonald Pittodrie House is set amongst 2,400 acres of private grounds, featuring magnificent views of the surrounding Scottish landscape a magical setting for your wedding celebrations.

Contact our wedding co-ordinator on 01467 622437 or email events.pittodrie@macdonald-hotels.co.uk to book your showround now!

www.macdonaldhotels.co.uk/pittodrie www.grampianweddingdirectory.co.uk

132

♥

HOTELS

www.byrhea.co.uk

Top tip: If you’re bringing in lots of extra bits and

bobs, be sure to ask important questions about the limits of what you can do. What time can suppliers gain access to set up and when does the space have to be clear post-wedding? Are there noise restrictions and curfews? Or regulations on fireworks? And exactly what can you use (and not use) to hang your beautiful bunting? Some hotels will have stipulations that are rarely negotiable – but can be worked around. Standard confetti, for example, may be prohibited but biodegradable is perfectly fine, whilst trusty heel protectors mean your girls can still sport their stilettos if the hotel doesn’t permit them in their ballroom.

www.meldrumhouse.com

www.grampianweddingdirectory.co.uk

HEADER

♼

133

Society Weddings Opulent new ballroom suite opening in May 2019 Intimate 20 guest weddings to lavish celebrations for 250

The Chester Hotel 59-63 Queens Road Aberdeen . AB15 4YP 01224 327 777 events@chester-hotel.com www.chester-hotel.com

Stylish west end weddings

www.grampianweddingdirectory.co.uk

134

♥

HOTELS

You don’t have to travel, which has many benefits Having beautiful on-site accommodation can be very convenient. Firstly, if you’re looking to cut costs, you have the option to remove bridal party transport from your plans as it’s customary to spend the night before in the comfort of your hotel. And if you’re having the ceremony and reception in the same venue, it’s likely that guest transport won’t be required either.

www.jonathanaddie.com

In addition, you won’t have far to saunter on your wedding night, which is ideal if you’ve had a G&T too many! And likewise for your guests… If they’re coming from afar, it saves them Googling B&Bs and taxi firms to ensure they’ve got somewhere to go at the end of the night.

Top tip:

It’s absolutely worth enquiring about any discounts for group bookings or, indeed, any extras they can add in for you… a cheeky bottle of fizz in the bridal suite, for example? If you don’t ask, you don’t get – and they’ll be used to it!

www.banchorylodge.com

rried a m t e g ' s t Le e. . . e D r e v i R by the

Telephone: 01330 822 625 www.banchorylodge.com Dee Street, Banchory, Royal Deeside, AB31 5HS

www.grampianweddingdirectory.co.uk

Image courtesy of Rubislaw Studio

Macdonald Norwood Hall Hotel.

One Bride.

One Wedding.

One day. at our Award Winning Hotel

magnificent victorian mansion stunning sweeping staircase & roaring log fires Luxurious pitfodels suite accommodating 220 guests licensed to host civil ceremonies 73 luxurious bedrooms including Bridal Suite a dedicated award winning team

Garthdee Road Aberdeen AB15 9FX T 01224 868951 weddings@norwood-hall.co.uk www.macdonaldhotels.co.uk/norwoodhall

136

♼

HOTELS

Struggling to choose the best hotel for you? How about writing a list of priorities, categorised into crucial, important and nice-to-have?

www.grampianweddingdirectory.co.uk

www.simonclubb.com

HEADER

♥

137

Malcolm Glennie Photography

Big enough to cope, small enough to care...

Oldmeldrum, Aberdeenshire, Scotland AB51 0AE t: +44 (0)1651 872294 e: weddings@meldrumhouse.com www.meldrumhouse.com LUXURY LIFESTYLE M A G A Z I N E

READERS’

TRAVEL AWARDS

BEST

AA HotelBOUTIQUE of theHOTEL Year 2018 Scotland 2014/2015 WINNER

AN IDYLLIC LOCATION, A UNIQUE EXPERIENCE.

138

♥

HOTELS

You can take advantage of other hotel benefits www.elitephotographics.co.uk

There’s more to most hotels than just bedrooms and function suites. Is there a super-serene spa that the bride and her maids could be pampered in? A round of golf to keep the groom and his buddies busy? Or an atmospheric private dining room where you could host dinner for your nearest and dearest the night before the wedding?

There’ll likely be plenty of parking too, so lots of space for designated driver guests – and for coaches to park and turn, if you’re using them. And, of course, you’ll have access to all the amenities within the hotel, from concierge and room service to laundry and shoe shine!

www.grampianweddingdirectory.co.uk

HEADER

♥

139

www.grampianweddingdirectory.co.uk

140

♥

HOTELS

www.jonathanaddie.com

www.grampianweddingdirectory.co.uk

HOTELS

♥

141

www.portra.it

Top tip: The hotel staff will naturally want you

to have the best day possible, so listen to their ideas and advice about these extras – they might suggest something you haven’t thought of yet.

They’re always open and, hopefully, available Because hotels generally run 24/7, 365 days a year, their doors are always open. Whether you need to pop in and take some quick measurements for a supplier or want to run through the menu options one more time, there should always be someone available to assist. Hurrah!

Top tip: This isn’t just a practical advantage – if

you’re planning a bridal party day out (post-dress purchase celebration, perhaps?), booking a hotel wedding means you can have your get-together at your venue! Get a lavish lunch organised or relaxing afternoon tea ordered and soak up the atmosphere and excitement!

In addition, it could prove handy on the big day – after the majority of guests have departed, you’re often more than welcome to use the residents’ bar in the hotel until the early hours to keep the party going… or to wind down! ♥

www.norwood-hall.co.uk

www.grampianweddingdirectory.co.uk

142

♥

ACCOMMODATION

Rest Your Head Accommodation Though your wedding may be all about celebrating, keeping your energy reserves topped up to get you through the whole event is important, too. So, you’ll need somewhere to rest your tired, but happy, heads once the guests have gone – if you’re not hotfooting it to your honeymoon destination straight away.

www.grampianweddingdirectory.co.uk www.skene-house.co.uk

HEADER

♥

143

www.grampianweddingdirectory.co.uk

144

♥

ACCOMMODATION

The accommodation available depends on your venue and its location, of course, but marrying in a hotel can make things simple for the bridal party. Packages often include a room for the happy couple before and after the event, but remember to ask about booking rooms – at a special rate – for the rest of the team. That way you can be together to enjoy the build-up, getting beautified in a relaxed way. It’s also great for ensuring you’ve got somewhere to stay in high season – but check the small print about who’s liable for any unused rooms. You don’t want an additional, unexpected bill for those!

Don’t forget your guests, though! They’ll need places to stay, too – essential if they’re coming from far away. As part of your wedding prep, why not rustle up a list of what’s close by the reception venue – so they don’t have extra transport costs – and enclose it with your invitations? Give a range of price options to cover everyone’s budget, and phone around a few places to ask if they’d have space around your date. You can also put guests in touch with one another so they can combine forces and keep each other company.

If you’ve got guests coming with family, a great cost-effective option is a serviced apartment or aparthotel. It literally accommodates separate meal and bed times, letting the adults stay up while the children are safely tucked up. They can eat in or out, catch up with other guests, and even extend their stay for a few days.

Aparthotels also have the advantage of 24/7 concierge services in case you need help or top tips about entertainment in the area, and often have partnerships with local firms such as eateries and gyms at a discount.

For the bridal party, these partnerships can mean everyone can come to you – hair and make-up, for example – letting you prepare in comfort and style. Ask if they can help organise coach travel to and from your venue, too. ♥ www.skene-house.co.uk

This is doubly important if your wedding’s out of town, in a stately home or castle, for instance.

They might have some rooms for the main bridal party, but accommodation’s likely to be limited, so pointing folk in the direction of somewhere nearby that’s cosy to stay in shows excellent hosting etiquette and thoughtfulness. www.skene-house.co.uk

www.millenniumhotels.com/en/aberdeen/copthorne-hotel-aberdeen/

www.millenniumhotels.com/en/aberdeen/copthorne-hotel-aberdeen/

www.grampianweddingdirectory.co.uk

HEADER

♥

145

The best favour you could do for your wedding guests: Bigger accommodation.

Face it, if you’re getting married, you want your guests to have the best time ever. A grand venue. A delicious wedding breakfast. A well stocked bar.

A band that will entertain people on the dancefloor until their feet can dance no more. Beautiful favours. The list goes on.

But when it comes to accommodation, that’s where you can really go to town. With Skene, guests get their very own apartment, with their own front door, their own kitchen, living room, bedrooms and bathroom.

It’s more than a getaway.

Skene guests can literally live away. Bliss.

01224 659392 skene-house.co.uk www.grampianweddingdirectory.co.uk

TH E D IR ECTO RY

146

C O M PA N Y PR O F I L E S - VE N U E S

ACCOMMODATION Skene House Holburn X Y [

6 Union Grove Aberdeen, AB10 6SY 01224 659392 www.skene-house.co.uk reservations@skene-house.co.uk Contact: Reservations .

Skene House Rosemount X Y [

96 Rosemount Viaduct Aberdeen, AB25 1NX 01224 659392 www.skene-house.co.uk reservations@skene-house.co.uk Contact: Reservations .

Skene House Whitehall X Y [

2 Whitehall Place Aberdeen, AB25 2NX 01224 659392 www.skene-house.co.uk reservations@skene-house.co.uk Contact: Reservations .

CASTLES & STATELY HOMES Ballogie House X Y

Ballogie Estate, Ballogie Aberdeenshire, AB34 5DS 013398 86497 www.ballogie-estate.co.uk i nfo@ballogie-estate.co.uk Contact: Helen Knowles & Lewis Gray

Brodie Castle X

Brodie Forres, IV36 2TE 01309 641371 www.nts.org.uk/weddings brodiecastle@nts.org.uk Contact: Functions Co-ordinator .

Castle Fraser X

Sauchen, Inverurie, Aberdeenshire , AB51 7LD 01330 833 463 www.nts.org.uk/weddings castlefraserweddings@nts.org.uk Contact: Harry Saunders

Cluny Castle X

Sauchen Inverurie Aberdeenshire, AB51 7RT 01330 833302 www.clunycastle.com info@clunycastle.com Contact: Fiona Jones

Craigievar Castle X

Alford Aberdeenshire, AB33 8JF 01339 883635 www.nts.org.uk/weddings craigievarcastle@nts.org.uk Contact: John Lemon

Crathes Castle X

Crathes By Banchory Aberdeenshire, AB31 5QJ 01330 844525 www.nts.org.uk/weddings crathes@nts.org.uk Contact: Functions Co-ordinator .

Drum Castle X

Drumoak By Banchory Aberdeenshire, AB31 5EY 01330 700334 www.nts.org.uk/weddings drumcastle@nts.org.uk Contact: Aiden Mcaleese www.grampianweddingdirectory.co.uk

www.aboynephotographics.com

Drumtochty Castle X

Auchenblae Aberdeenshire, AB30 1TP 01561 320169 www.drumtochtycastle.com nikki@drumtochtycastle.com Contact: Nikki Curran General Manager

Fyvie Castle X

Fyvie Castle By Turriff Aberdeenshire, AB53 8JS 01651 891 266 www.nts.org.uk/weddings fyvieweddings@nts.org.uk Contact: Celine Mutch

Haddo House X

Methlick Ellon Aberdeenshire, AB41 7EQ 01651 851 440 www.nts.org.uk/weddings haddoweddings@nts.org.uk Contact: Fiona Milne

House Of Dun X

Montrose Angus, DD10 9LQ 01674 810264 www.nts.org.uk/weddings houseofdun@nts.org.uk Contact: Shona Smith

Leith Hall X

Leith Hall Huntly, Aberdeenshire, AB54 4NQ 01464 831 216 www.nts.org.uk/wedding leithhall@nts.org.uk Contact: Gillian Pettigrew

Logie Country House X [ \

Pitcaple Inverurie Aberdeenshire, AB51 5EE 08450 942424 www.logiecountryhouse.co.uk events@logiecountryhouse.co.uk Contact: Gillian Black

Mar Lodge X

Estate Office Mar Lodge Braemar, AB35 5YJ 01339 741433 www.nts.org.uk/weddings marlodgeestate@nts.org.uk Contact: Rebecca Rowe

Raemoir House X Y [

Raemoir House Banchory Aberdeenshire, AB31 4ED 01330 824884 www.raemoir.com events@raemoir.com Contact: Neil Rae

The National Trust For Scotland X

Head Office, Hermiston Quay, Edinburgh, EH11 4DF 0131 458 0438 www.nts.org.uk/weddings functions@nts.org.uk Contact: Derrick Lothian & David Wright

Wardhill Castle X [

Meikle Wartle, Near Inverurie, Aberdeenshire AB51 5BH 01651 821145 / 07734 425282 www.wardhillcastle.co.uk weddings@wardhillcastle.co.uk Contact: Sarah Leslie

T H E D I R E C T O RY

147

C O M PAN Y PRO F I L ES - V EN U E S

HOTELS .............................................................

Key:  = Number of Bedrooms

 = Ballroom Capacity  = Star Rating

.............................................................

Aberdeen Marriott Hotel X Y

:155 :250 :4 Overton Circle Dyce Aberdeen, AB21 7AZ 01224 770011 www.aberdeenmarriott.co.uk aberdeen.events@marriotthotels.co.uk Contact: Sharlene Rennie

Ardoe House Hotel & Spa X Y [

:120 :400 :4 South Deeside Road Blairs Aberdeen, AB12 5YP 01224 860600 www.mercure.com/gb/hotel-6626-mercureaberdeen-ardoe-house h6626-sb3@accor.com Contact: Louise Donald

Ban Car Hotel X

:21 :200 :3 Lonmay Fraserburgh, AB43 8RL 01346 532578 www.ban-carhotel.co.uk info@ban-carhotel.co.uk Contact: Tina Gibbins

Banchory Lodge Hotel X Y [ \

Macdonald Pittodrie House Hotel X Y

:27 :100 :4 Chapel Of Garioch Inverurie, AB51 5HS 01467 622 437 www.macdonaldhotels.co.uk/pittodrie events.pittodrie@macdonald-hotels.co.uk Contact: Nicola Daniels

Maryculter House X Y [

:40 :160 :4 South Deeside Road Maryculter Aberdeen, AB12 5GB 01224 732124 www.maryculterhousehotel.com weddings@maryculterhousehotel.com Contact: Kelly Bruce

Meldrum House X Y

:56 :200 :4 Oldmeldrum, AB51 0AE 01651 872294 www.meldrumhouse.com weddings@meldrumhouse.com Contact: Natalie Stephenson

Norwood Hall Hotel X Y [ \

:73 :200 :4 Garthdee Road Cults Aberdeen, AB15 9FX 01224 868951 www.norwood-hall.co.uk weddings@norwood-hall.co.uk Contact: Vicky Arthur & Julie Love

:28 :130 :4 Dee Street Banchory Royal Deeside, AB31 5HS 01330 822625 www.banchorylodge.com weddings@banchorylodge.com Contact: Isla Elliot & Susan Blair

Palm Court Hotel X Y [

Burnett Arms Hotel X Y [

Sandman Signature Aberdeen Hotel X [

:18 :100 :0 25 High Street Banchory Kincardineshire , AB31 5TD 01330 824 944 www.burnettarms.co.uk theburnett@btconnect.com Contact: Anita Stevenson

Copthorne Hotel Aberdeen X Y [

:87 :150 :4 122 Huntly Street Aberdeen, AB10 1SU 01224 630404 www.millenniumhotels.co.uk/copthorneaberdeen events.aberdeen@millenniumhotels.co.uk Contact: Adrienne Duncan & Jamie Snowden

Holiday Inn Aberdeen West X

:23 :120 :4 81 Seafield Road Aberdeen, AB15 7YX 01224 310351 www.thepalmcourthotel.com events@palmcourthotel.co.uk Contact: Siobhan Jaffray

:148 :130 s:4 Prime Four Kingswells Aberdeen, AB15 8PJ 01224 974580 www.village-hotels.co.uk/hotels/aberdeen china.rahul@village-hotels.com Contact: China Rahul & Karen Day

VENUES & MARQUEES Craigievar Marquee And Toilet Hire X Kirkton House Craigievar

By Alford, Aberdeenshire, AB33 8JR 019755 81553 07794 901542 www.craigievarmarqueehire.co.uk info@kirktonhouse.com Contact: Mike Findlay

Esslemont Marquees X \

The Rock Westfield, Contlaw Rd Milltimber, Aberdeen, AB13 0EX 01224 739188 07729 875441 www.esslemontmarquees.co.uk dan@esslemontmarquees.co.uk Contact: Dan Whiteford

Glen Tanar Ballroom X Y [

Glen Tanar Estate Aboyne Aberdeenshire, AB34 5EU 01339 886451 www.glentanar.co.uk info@glentanar.co.uk Contact: Shona Tracy

Harthill Hospitality Llp X

:218 :300 :4 Chop Bar & Grill St Andrews Street Aberdeen, AB25 1AD 01224 945555 www.sandmansignature.co.uk Contact: Patrick Mercer

Harthill Castle, Oyne, Insch, Aberdeenshire, AB52 6QX 01464 851103 07595 203 271 www.harthillhospitality.com mary@harthillhospitality.com Contact: Mary Campbell & Mark Fleming

The Aberdeen Altens Hotel X Y

Lochter Activity Centre X [

:216 :220 :4 Southerhead Road Altens Aberdeen, AB12 3LF 01224 877 000 www.aberdeenaltenshotel.co.uk events@aberdeenaltenshotel.co.uk Contact: Julia Leitch

Lochter Oldmeldrum Aberdeenshire, AB51 0DZ 01651 872000 www.lochter.co.uk info@lochter.co.uk Contact: Michaela Webster

The Chester Hotel Ltd X Y [

The Barn @ Barra Castle X Y [

:86 :250 :4 Westhill Drive Westhill Aberdeen, AB32 6TT 01224 270300 www.hiaberdeenwest.co.uk karin.moir@hiaberdeenwest.co.uk Contact: Karin Mackay

:50 :230 :5 59-63 Queens Road Aberdeen Aberdeenshire, AB15 4YP 01224 327777 www.chester-hotel.com events@chester-hotel.com Contact: Events Team

Jurys Inn X Y

Tornacoille Hotel X Y

:147 :250 s:4 Argyll Road Dyce Aberdeen, AB21 0AF 01224 725252 www.jurysinns.com lesley.mitchell@jurysinns.com Contact: Lesley Mitchell

Village Hotel Club Aberdeen X Y

:25 :80 :4 Inchmarlo Road Banchory, AB31 4AB 01330 822242 www.tornacoille.com info@tornacoille.com Contact: David Littlewood

Barra Castle Oldmeldrum Inverurie, AB51 0BB 01651 872 369 07866 491 508 www.barracastle.co.uk info@yahoo.co.uk Contact: Sarah Stephen & Sarah Stephen

The Cow Shed X Y [

Raemoir Road Banchory, AB31 5QB 01330 820813 www.cowshedrestaurantbanchory.co.uk joy@cowshedrestaurant.co.uk Contact: Joy Buchan www.grampianweddingdirectory.co.uk

148

♥

HEADER

Blushing Bride

www.grampianweddingdirectory.co.uk

HEADER

♥

149

Dawn Stephen and Gary Sinclair got engaged in March 2017 but, just as the bride-to-be was getting all Bridezilla, she got another– surprise a bun in the oven! Thankfully, her mumr– owner of Fraserburgh’s Blush Bridalr– was on hand to take care of all the wedding details. We found out from Dawn how everyone, including her five-month-old son, Jock, came together for her and Gary’s Norwood Hall Hotel nuptials on 1 December 2018...…

www.grampianweddingdirectory.co.uk

150

♥

HEADER

My highlights were a surprise poem by my maid of honour, the ‘'fatherof-the-bride’ speech by my Uncle James a true testament to my dad who passed away years earlier - – and, of course, leaving the aisle as a family that finally all had the same last name.

My priorities changed with becoming pregnant so soon after getting engaged and the wedding was, quite honestly, the last thing on my mind! So, luckily for me, my mum basically organised the whole day – she sourced the suppliers and I got to pick between them. And, because I live in Edinburgh and she’s in Fraserburgh, most of the decisions were actually made via Facebook Messenger!

Gary and I decided to marry in December as our first date had been in December, then wanted Christmas colours to reflect the time of year. But contacting my cake supplier, The Cake Taylor, had actually been my first priority – I’d had cake from Dawn before and the flavours were amazing.

Unsurprisingly, Blush had a hand in helping me pick my dress. I was sixmonths pregnant at the time and, as the team were down at London Bridal Fashion Week, I thought I’d go along for a holiday.

At the show, I saw a white Morilee dress on a model, then in rose gold on a hanger and I had to go over to see it. I’m like a magpie – I love sparkle and this dress was sparkle overload!

I basically held it up against me and decided, there and then, that it was my dress. My mum was having a heart attack as she’d never let her brides in the shop do that! I was totally winging it that it’d suit me – and luckily, it did.

When it came to accessorising, I have to give all the credit to mum and Melissa at Blush. After the birth of my son, it was hard to find time to do anything wedding-related so they picked a headpiece, a veil and jewellery to team with the Jimmy Choos I had in waiting.

www.grampianweddingdirectory.co.uk

HEADER

♥

151

On the morning of the wedding I was excited – but probably seemed laid-back as I was just so chuffed to get my hair and make-up done. Since having Jock, getting dolled up was a rare occasion!

We had a humanist ceremony then a drinks’ reception, complete with cheesecake and a sweetie bar. And, by the time Gary and I went to the ballroom for the meal, there were no treats left!

Our 180 guests had a menu picked by my mum and Gary, including prawns, roast beef and a trio of desserts – sticky toffee pudding, berry pavlova and white chocolate cheesecake.

Twenty more joined for the evening and Glitz played all types of music, including ceilidh. We had a fun ‘rag bag’ game too, and the band picked the winner. The sweetie table was re-stocked as well, in preparation for midnight munchies!

It was the quickest day of my life, and it all went so well. My highlights were a surprise poem by my maid of honour, the ‘father-of-the-bride’ speech by my Uncle James – a true testament to my dad who passed away years earlier – and, of course, leaving the aisle as a family that finally all had the same last name. ❤

VENUE: NORWOOD HALL HOTEL WEDDING DRESS: BLUSH BRIDAL GROOM’S OUTFIT: DEBENHAMS HAIR: BEAUTÉ MAKE-UP: KISS & MAKEUP BRIDESMAID DRESSES: BLUSH BRIDAL MOTHER-OF-THE-BRIDE OUTFIT: DRESSAGE PHOTOGRAPHER: MALCOLM GLENNIE PHOTOGRAPHY STATIONERY: PAPETERIE CRAFTS CAKE: THE CAKE TAYLOR FLOWERS: THE FLOWER SHOP FAVOURS: HANDCRAFTED BY MUM’S FRIEND DÉCOR: ABERDEEN WEDDING SHOP BAND/DJ: GLITZ PHOTOBOOTH: SILLYSNAPZ

www.grampianweddingdirectory.co.uk

152

♼

HEADER

Naturally Beautiful Eco-conscious weddings are the way forward in 2019, following the example set by Prince Harry and Meghan last year. Source dresses made using ethical practices, create a naked cake using local ingredients, stick to in-season food and flowers, and swap any single-use plastic for biodegradables. Handmake your favours and invitations with recycled paper, upcycle old jars for the tables, and arrive in a horse and carriage for fossil fuel-free transport!

1. www.ivorygrace.co.uk / 2. aboynephotographic.com / 3. www.theflowershop.org.uk 4. www.facebook.com/Gorgeouslysweet / 5. www.jonathanaddie.com / 6. www.gingerray.co.uk 7. www.burtsbees.co.uk / 8. www.lorealprofessionnel.co.uk / 9. wildflower-favours.co.uk 10. www.blushbridal.scot / 11. www.gemmakenwardshoes.com / 12. wildflower-favours.co.uk

www.grampianweddingdirectory.co.uk

GT

6.

HEADER

♥

153

7.

9.

8.

1.

TL 2.

3.

11.

10.

4.

12.

5.

♥

CEREMONIES

www.byrhea.co.uk

154

Vow Factor Ceremonies

From a simple, pared-down event to a full-blown, spare-noexpense extravaganza, there’s one ingredient in every wedding that’s a (legal!) must-have: the ceremony.

Without taking

witnesses your

vows

and –

whether you’re following a traditional service or writing your own, it’s just a big party with friends and family. And, as the National Registry states formal

of that

Scotland there’s

wording

no laid

down in law for ‘marriage vows’*, there’s scope to personalise

proceedings

to reflect who you, as a couple, are.

To make sure you don’t miss any important steps, here’s a rundown of what needs organising:

First of all, what type of ceremony do you both want?

This is different and personal for every couple as so many factors come into play – spiritual or religious beliefs, culture, family traditions, etc. For some, this’ll be a simple choice; for others, it may require a balancing act.

Once you’re agreed, the next stop on your journey to the altar is to book a celebrant.

For religious services, this’ll be the minister, rabbi or imam, depending on your faith. For civil ceremonies, the registrar is your point of call. For humanist, pagan or interfaith observances, contact the relevant society or organisation for advice. Before engaging them though, check that they’re legally entitled to marry you and ask about any fees to be paid.

Then you have to give notice of your intention to wed.

For this, allow a minimum 29 days’ notice, but preferably ten to twelve weeks. The registry office at your wedding location (not necessarily where you live – beware!) is the place for this. You’ll each need to fill in a Marriage Notice form and provide certain accompanying documents to the registrar, plus pay a fee. The registrar can guide you and there are fuller details online – check out the sections about getting married on www.mygov.scot or www.nrscotland.gov.uk

www.grampianweddingdirectory.co.uk

CEREMONIES

The final essentials are the words to legally marry you.

Your celebrant can keep you right on this. And don’t forget to source two witnesses, aged 16+, to observe.

With these important factors in place, you can consider the other elements of your wedding…

For religious ceremonies – although there’ll be a traditional script to follow, you’ll need hymns and music for the beginning, middle and end of proceedings. Also, consider any readings you want and who’ll do those. And, don’t forget, there may be special lessons in the run-up to your marriage, too.

♥

155

Wedding ceremonies are changing, though – don’t forget the Duchess of Sussex walked herself down the aisle last year. If you want groomsgirls and bridesmen, a best woman or a flower granny beside you, it’s possible. Man’s best friend is often included now as the ring bearer, so your beloved scruffy mutt isn’t left out. Or, as one of our featured couples did, hire a couple of alpacas to do the job – venue and celebrant permitting! * www.nrscotland.gov.uk/registration/getting-married-in scotland/marriage-ceremonies-in-scotland

If you’ve opted for a civil wedding officiated by a registrar, there’s a choice of services to which you can add extras, such as poetry readings, a sand or candle ceremony, and your own vows.

A wider range of personalisation can be offered through a humanist, pagan or interfaith ceremony, including a traditional handfasting, should you fancy, so your marriage service can be as unique and different as you are.

www.grampianweddingdirectory.co.uk

156

♥

FOOD & DRINK

Gastronomer’s Food & Drink Guide

Food and drink are becoming an increasingly central part of tying the knot, but every couple wants to do something a little bit different. So, we searched for some of the top wedding gastronomy trends for 2019, sure to whet your appetite…

www.byrhea.co.uk

Put a spin on traditional dishes: If you like chicken but could pass on

the usual creamy sauce, what about a yummy Southern-fried crumb? While you’re at it, swap haggis, neeps and tatties for a spring roll filled with the Scottish delicacy, accompanied by mouthwatering chilli jam.

Have a taste of everything: Why not incorporate all your favourite meals

and swap the traditional three-course wedding breakfast for a creative and luxurious tasting menu of five to seven smaller dishes?

www.grampianweddingdirectory.co.uk

FOOD & DRINK

♥

157

www.entier-services.com/wilde-thyme www.grampianweddingdirectory.co.uk

158

♥

FOOD & DRINK

www.entier-services.com/wilde-thyme

Why not incorporate all

your favourite meals and

swap the traditional threecourse wedding breakfast

for a creative and luxurious

tasting menu of five to seven smaller dishes?

www.janiebarclay.com

www.grampianweddingdirectory.co.uk

Give guests with dietary restrictions something extra: How about investing in some trendy vegan wedding food?

Serve up family style:

The trend for relaxed sharing menus isn’t going anywhere! How about spicing it up by summoning a guest per table to the kitchen, arming them with a chef’s hat and having them serve their table or carve the meat?

Choices, choices, choices: Why don’t you go for a ‘design your own sundae’ station for a delicious and bespoke summer desert? Perfect for a venue with lots of space! Or put a spin on the modern buffet classic that is mac ‘n’ cheese and bring in a mac bar with pick ‘n’ mix options.

www.jonathanaddie.com

HEADER

♥

159

www.grampianweddingdirectory.co.uk

160

♥

FOOD & DRINK

www.deesidephoto.co.uk

Get your favourite food truck to park up:

From

tying the knot with a pretzel bar to serving up classic fish and chips, there’s something for everyone.

Offer a surprise snack: Forget the evening buffet – make it a midnight feast to ensure the party keeps going all night long!

Say cheers:

More than a quarter of couples now

offer an open bar but even a complimentary drink or two goes a long way. In fact, a bespoke booze token could be perfect if you’re struggling for favour inspo! ♥ www.deesidephoto.co.uk

www.grampianweddingdirectory.co.uk

www.aberdeenphoto.com www.entier-services.com/wilde-thyme

HEADER

♥

161

Country Flavours of Alford is regarded as one of the North East’s finest wedding, event and outside catering providers.

We pride ourselves on providing quality food and drink, made using locally sourced ingredients and the freshest seasonal produce, creating stunning menus that will be sure to leave a lasting impression for your big day.

At Country Flavours, it is more than “just the food”, we can provide coordination for your entire day, allowing you to relax and enjoy the most exciting and magical time of your life.

Preferred caterer venues:

Coo Cathedral • Aswanley House • Balmoral Castle Cluny Castle • Ballogie House • The Barn @ Barra

01975 564047 / 07736 090425 enquiries@countryflavoursofalford.co.uk www.countryflavoursofalford.co.uk

Fine food made with care in the country www.grampianweddingdirectory.co.uk

162

♥

CAKES

Cakes

Cut the Cake Even if they’re next in line at the bar, knee-deep in wine-fuelled chats or simply desperate for the loo, there’s one photo opportunity that all wedding guests will pass up everything else for – the cake-cutting shot, of course! So, whilst your wedding cake certainly shouldn’t outshine you on your big day, you’ll need to make sure it’s a truly unique Insta-worthy creation…

www.grampianweddingdirectory.co.uk

www.aboynephotographics.com

CAKES

♥

163

www.aboynephotographics.com

www.facebook.com/Gorgeouslysweet/ www.facebook.com/Gorgeouslysweet/

A cake is often responsible for a large chunk of the wedding budget, so make sure you’re prepared early and can enjoy working with your chosen supplier to pull your masterpiece together.

Whether you’ve got the ultimate sweet tooth or you’re more the savoury type (cake made of cheese, anyone?), they’ll work to your budget and shower you with inspiration, from mouthwatering images of their past work to creative suggestions that suit your venue and theme.

On that note, you’ll quickly learn there are a lot of differentiators when it comes to building that dream cake, so check out our handy heads-up whilst you’re doing your homework…

07904 470721 M P www.grampianweddingdirectory.co.uk

164

♥

CAKES

Colour:

For something a bit different, look into metallic frosting or a chic marble look and consider breaking up the effect – and adding style – by slotting the eye-catching tiers between the plain iced ones. Alternatively, if you’re going for ombre nails on the big day, make your cake match! And if you’re sticking to one colour, you can still be creative; just think of all the different ways you can incorporate it within one cake – ribbon, lace, glitter and a matching cake topper, perhaps?

Use edible sparkle to get

in on the hottest new trend – the glamorous geode cake.

Texture:

For a little crunch and subtle sparkle, edible sugar crystals in your wedding colour would definitely make a stylish statement.

And if you’re looking for something even more impressive, use the edible sparkle to get in on the hottest new trend – the glamorous geode cake.

You could be mistaken for thinking it’s ‘just’ a smooth fondant cake, but it comes into its own by mimicking geodes (those hollow rocks filled with sparkling crystals and minerals) with a dramatic, confection-filled cut-out. Wow factor, for sure!

www.coutureweddingcakes.co.uk

Shape: If you’re going for the geometric look for

your stationery, keep the theme going with your cake. Grampian’s cake baking experts will be able to help you source the perfect dummy shape for that quirky geometric layer and suggest the best way to make it stand out – metallic spray paint, perhaps? www.jonathanaddie.com

www.aberdeenweddingcakes.co.uk

www.grampianweddingdirectory.co.uk

HEADER

♥

165

www.grampianweddingdirectory.co.uk

CAKES

Size: You can go as big as you like but remember that, as

the number of tiers increase, your budget will too; how about ‘fake tiers’ to cost-effectively add some height? Or perhaps macarons (stunning in the ombre style mentioned above!) could give you the tower you’re after? The other side of the coin, of course, is something small, relaxed and elegant – a minimal two-tier beauty with classic white frosting, for example.

Decoration: If you’re going vintage, you’ll be thinking about

intricate add-ons, like flowers, butterflies and bird cages in soft, chalky colour palettes; but if the luxe vibe is more you, how about metallic leaf embellishments? And for those bringing the outside in on their big day, think about real flowers to adorn a simple but delicious buttercream cake.

Taste: You’ll spend a long time thinking about how the cake

looks, but don’t forget the other critical factor… how it tastes!

Again, your expert will have endless ideas and is likely to be able to adapt to anything you wish, from vegan-friendly to the classic sponge cake. You could add a dash of booze to spice it up and have a different flavour for each tier, but don’t forget about individual dietary requirements – might be worth providing a mini alternative for anyone who can’t enjoy the real thing! ♥

www.grampianweddingdirectory.co.uk

www.aberdeenphoto.com

♥

www.coutureweddingcakes.co.uk

166

HEADER

No one ever forgets a pretty cake Award winning bespoke wedding cakes 07590 604 339 www.coutureweddingcakes.co.uk E sweetcheeks@coutureweddingcakes.co.uk T

♼

167

168

♥

EVENT ACCESSORIES

Make it Accessories Yours The hyper-personal wedding has arrived! Personalisation and sustainability are becoming increasingly important to brides- and grooms-to-be with many spending time and money on ensuring their big day helps save the planet whilst reflecting themselves as a couple.

Almost 40% of people now consider sustainability when planning their wedding, according to a survey by wedding planning app, Bridebook. Apparently, more than a fifth choose to serve organic food and 17% reuse their flowers and accessories in some way.

Meanwhile, personalisation is peaking. The influence of inspirational social media means suppliers are having to be more creative than ever to attract clients – which is good news for newly engaged couples hunting for something different décor-wise!

Whether you want multicoloured alpacas roaming with your guests or an animatronic velociraptor to join you on the dance floor, it seems like no request is too great.

The incredible diversity of Grampian’s event décor and accessory suppliers will ensure that, however wild your wedding dreams are, they can become reality.

www.grampianweddingdirectory.co.uk

EVENT ACCESSORIES

♥

169

www.grampianweddingdirectory.co.uk

www.jonathanaddie.com

♥

EVENT ACCESSORIES

www.aboynephotographics.com

170

So, where do you start?

Find out what’s trending and get inspired You’ll want to begin by thinking about the overall vibe you want to create, but also any smaller musthaves. And you’re starting at the right place with a copy of GWD in your hands!

Do consult other mags and websites, too, though – including Pinterest, of course, which is bursting with #weddinginspo! Whether you’re a firm follower of fashion or very much play to the beat of your own drum, it’s a vital resource to see what’s hot.

www.grampianweddingdirectory.co.uk

HEADER

♥

171

www.grampianweddingdirectory.co.uk

172

♥

EVENT ACCESSORIES

Talking of which, here are some predictions for 2019 trends: Keep it simple: The minimalist approach reigns supreme yet again this year with stylish, refined décor pics popping up all over Pinterest. Pair this look with light, airy colours for utter elegance.

Combine classic and contemporary: Using traditional and modern accessories with varying textures is said to be a great way to make a table feel design-rich during 2019.

Pastels are preferred – but black is back: Mint green is hot right now, especially when accompanied by lavender, beige or pale pink shades. Meanwhile, black accents are set to be popular when it comes to table décor. Team it with your pretty pastels for an ultra-chic look.

Add va-va-voom with velvet: The new

www.aboynephotographics.com

texture in town – velvet – offers something for every season. Try it out in different tones to find the right one for your big day.

Create some depth: Tall candlesticks set at different heights will add dimension and drama. How about doing the same with your floral arrangements?

Play with patterned vases:

Talking of flowers, enhancing your displays with some funky vases is bang on trend. Consider filling them with something simple, like eucalyptus, and displaying them down the centre of a wooden trestle table.

Say hello to rattan: Perfect for boho-style celebrations, rattan and wicker accents are set to be everywhere this year – not just on chairs! Think lanterns suspended from the ceiling or baskets full of flowers for a vintage-inspired statement.

www.grampianweddingdirectory.co.uk

www.byrhea.co.uk www.janiebarclay.com

HEADER

♥

173

www.grampianweddingdirectory.co.uk

♥

EVENT ACCESSORIES

www.deesidephoto.co.uk

174

Consider all the factors

And look at your venue – blank canvas venues lend themselves to rustic, vintage themes (think bunting, hay bales and tandem bicycles) with lots of DIY detail, whilst brides tying the knot in a top hotel might want to explore something more glamorous, complete with crystals, candelabras and even a couple of thrones for the happy couple!

www.aberdeenphoto.com

Think about the time of year – could you incorporate autumnal colours for a wedding later in the year or go for a pretty Easter theme for spring nuptials?

Higher Calling Flowers & Events Limited is a bespoke wedding and events design company with extensive experience of creating unique and exquisite décors.

Arches, bouquets & floral decors, Chiavari chair hire, chair covers, bespoke backdrops & drapery, event lighting, assorted events accessories.

www.grampianweddingdirectory.co.uk

www.highercallingflowersevents.com E: info@highercallingflowersevents.com T: 01224 703416 / 07984737482

EVENT ACCESSORIES

♼

175

www.elitephotographics.co.uk

www.byrhea.co.uk

www.elitephotographics.co.uk

L: 01224 289730 M: 07747 633532 f www.weddingswingsandprettythings.co.uk

North East Events

Event & Wedding Planners

The Home of Special Events At North East Events, attention to detail is second nature, enabling us to create your dream wedding.

Wedding Planning I Table Centrepieces I Chair Covers I Flowers I Venue Dressing I Candy Buffet I Table Linen Hire I Hire Service

Making your dream a reality.

www.northeast-events.co.uk E alison@northeast-events.co.uk T 01651 873496 M 07969 536288 www.grampianweddingdirectory.co.uk

176

♥

EVENT ACCESSORIES

Whilst it’s lovely to include lots of little props and

personal details, they can

get lost in a large venue full of guests. Aberdeen’s event

décor specialists will be able

to advise you on the best way to execute your chosen theme and make a real statement – without overpowering the

bride or the venue, of course!

Contact us directly to see our full range of equipment and discover how we can help with your special day.

With an extensive stock of Dance Floors, Banquet Chairs, Lighting and Decorations. Look no further than Alan Ritchie Exhibition & Design. We combine years of experience within our creative team to produce outstanding results and the ability to transform any space.

For further information, visit our site:

www.exh-design.co.uk

or call Paul on: 07974223329 www.grampianweddingdirectory.co.uk

www.aboynephotographics.com

EVENT ACCESSORIES

♥

177

www.jenniferriddell.co.uk

www.deesidephoto.co.uk

www.grampianweddingdirectory.co.uk

178

♥

EVENT ACCESSORIES

Make it stand out but not take over Whilst it’s lovely to include lots of little props and personal details, they can get lost in a large venue full of guests. Aberdeen’s event décor specialists will be able to advise you on the best way to execute your chosen theme and make a real statement – without overpowering the bride or the venue, of course!

It’s all about balance… You may also want to think about how loud, quirky or time-sensitive you want your theme to be. Whilst decking your venue out Harry Potter-style may look amazing this year, will it stand the test of time? For a safer option, look at more traditional options with classic details – pearls, candles and soft fabrics – that’ll create a beautiful and timeless effect.

www.aberdeenphoto.com

Sweeter Making your day a little

we put the sweet into heart...

07400 198 777 info@candy-corner.com

For your wedding decor, entertainment and extras.

We can help make your big day everything you can imagine and more.

www.candy-corner.com fCandyCornerEvents www.grampianweddingdirectory.co.uk

EVENT ACCESSORIES

♥

179

Love the planet Some brides choose a dress they’ll wear again, supporting the backlash against ‘wear it once’ fashion but, if that’s not right for you, take an environmentally friendly attitude with your décor instead.

www.deesidephoto.co.uk www.byrhea.co.uk

Go plastic-free by ditching single-use cups, containers and cutlery. And, if you do need to use disposables, look into compostable versions. In addition, support the Circular Economy (keeping products and materials in use for as long as possible to get their maximum value) by hiring props rather than buying. Our local décor hire companies are full of ideas, too, so you’ll definitely benefit from using them!

www.grampianweddingdirectory.co.uk

♥

EVENT ACCESSORIES

www.aberdeenphoto.com

180

Pick your supplier On that note, renting on-trend items from the northeast’s top prop experts will help the purse strings too – instead of allocating a chunk of your budget for a charity shop accessory haul, you can spend elsewhere.

You’re also guaranteed an excellent service, from ideas and advice to delivery and collection, to styling the entire venue for you so you can simply walk into your dream wedding theme. ♥

www.grampianweddingdirectory.co.uk

EVENT ACCESSORIES

♥

181

www.aberdeenphoto.com

www.aboynephotographics.com

www.jonathanaddie.com

www.grampianweddingdirectory.co.uk

182

♥

ENTERTAINMENT

Entertaining Entertainemnt Elements From the beginning of your wedding ceremony to the very end of your evening reception, your choice of entertainment can be a transformational part of your celebrations…

Live music can be truly captivating before, during and after your nuptials, whether you’re kicking off with some Scottish sounds on the bagpipes, bringing in a string quartet for some classical pieces or inviting an acoustic singer to softly deliver your favourite pop song. Regardless, ensure the choice matches your theme for the day – and the vibe of the venue.

Following this, post-ceremony music during the drinks’ reception is increasingly popular. From a colourful collective on the bongos to a set of super-talented singers, you can use their flair to set the tone for the rest of the day – and give your guests something to watch whilst you sneak off for snaps!

www.grampianweddingdirectory.co.uk

ENTERTAINMENT

♥

183

www.grampianweddingdirectory.co.uk www.aberdeenphoto.com

184

♥

ENTERTAINMENT

www.aboynephotographics.com

Bands aren’t the only way to keep your guests entertained, though… what about a silent disco, where everyone on the dance floor wears a music-

playing headset? Choose something that suits all ages (or a few different channels) and let your guests get lost in the tunes.

www.jenniferriddell.co.uk

www.elitephotographics.co.uk

On to dinner time, and it’s not just about chatter and a playlist in the background. How about North East Scotland’s Finest Wedding DJ Specialists

introducing some live music here to enhance the impromptu moments, like toasts, speeches and newlywed kisses? Bringing in a piano player, for example, who can subtly end a song in time for a

Providing Professional Entertainment Since 1981

special moment creates a much more seamless

DJs - Lighting Hire - Effects - Karaoke 01224 895895 - touchofclass.co.uk

effect than cutting a melody midway or asking

www.grampianweddingdirectory.co.uk

someone to turn down the volume.

HEADER

♥

185

NJE

FIREWORK DISPLAYS

Add more colour to your wedding with spectacular fireworks from Award Winning specialists.

At NJE Firework Displays, we can provide you with stunning wedding fireworks to make your day one to remember!

We can also supply:

3D INFINITY DANCE FLOOR I SNOW MACHINE I DRY ICE CLOUD EFFECT I INDOOR FOUNTAINS FLAMBEAUX UNITS I BUBBLE MACHINE I UP LIGHTERS I CONFETTI CANNONS

Speak to our experts today.

T 01358 800114 M 07745 251664 E norman_donald33@hotmail.com www.njefireworksdisplays.co.ukwww.grampianweddingdirectory.co.uk

186

♥

ENTERTAINMENT

www.jonathanaddie.com

www.byrhea.co.uk

Of course, music is central to the next portion of the wedding – the evening reception. From your much-anticipated first dance and the funky ceilidh songs that’ll get everyone on their feet to laugh-out-loud classics like the conga, an experienced wedding band will be able to advise you on the best choice and order of music to create an atmosphere that suits your day and venue. www.grampianweddingdirectory.co.uk

IRON BROO CEILIDH BAND One-man ceilidh band

I Iron

Broo Duo

- Optional Disco to any line up - Accordion and fiddle duo - Tune writing service - Afternoon or evening

I Trio, 4, 5, 6 or

more pieces

Iron Broo, a band based in Aberdeen, have been raised steeped in the ceilidh tradition, with over 25 years experience of playing ceilidhs at weddings and events all over Scotland and worldwide.

We provide a bespoke, personal service for your special event, with our reliable and professional musicians who have an excellent reputation. All our line ups come with dance calling and event insurance.

Get your guests talking and laughing together and ensure that everybody has an outrageously good time!

- Background music

WEDDINGS, PARTIES OR ANY EXCUSE! For bookings or queries please contact: E

charlieabel@ironbroo.scot I T 07802 861390 www.ironbroo.scotwww.grampianweddingdirectory.co.uk

188

♥

ENTERTAINMENT

Using musicians all day, however, can get expensive – so think cleverly! Instead of hiring in someone new for the drinks’ reception or dinner, how about bringing back the cello player from the string quartet that played during the ceremony, or asking a couple of members of your evening band to start early?

Watch the size when it comes to bands too – a five- or seven-piece band is ample for an audience of around 100, but if your guest list is double or triple that, you may need something larger.

Bands aren’t the only way to keep your guests entertained, though…

The sound of silence:

If you’ve not experienced a silent disco before, it’s when everyone on the dance floor wears a musicplaying headset. Choose something that suits all ages (or a few different channels) and let your guests get lost in the tunes.

www.grampianweddingdirectory.co.uk

www.aboynephotographics.com

ENTERTAINMENT

♥

189

Double up your entertainment and favours: Bringing in a caricaturist whilst you’re off having your photos taken not only keeps your nearest and dearest occupied, but gives them a quirky memento from the day, too.

Surprise them: www.aberdeenphoto.com

Spice up your meal by hiring some singing waiters who’ll suddenly start belting out some operatic tunes.

Get a bespoke bar: From ice cream carts to www.deesidephoto.co.uk

prosecco vans, keep rumbly tummies at bay with some gastronomic delights.

Got wee ones in the midst? Consider bringing in childcare or child-friendly entertainment, from simple activity packs to toys, food and everything needed for their normal bedtime routine.

And pets?

If your furry friend has been part of the ceremony, ensure they’re groomed for the occasion and cared for after their cameo, courtesy of local specialists. ♥

www.thebigshow.co.uk ☎ 01224 691533/07803 060313 ✉ info@thebigshow.co.uk f/thebigshowscotland www.grampianweddingdirectory.co.uk

190

♥

TRANSPORT

Getting Transport There

www.grampianweddingdirectory.co.uk

www.aboynephotographics.com

TRANSPORT

♥

191

www.jonathanaddie.com

You could be forgiven for thinking that if you’re hosting your ceremony and reception under one roof, you have no need for wedding transport. But that’s not the case…

Regardless of the number of venues you’ll be at on the big day, potential wedding transport – for both the bridal party and your guests – is something you’ll need to think about around six months to a year beforehand.

to make sure there’s transport for everyone, too (it’s customary to cater for the happy couple, the bride’s parents, the bridesmaids, the best man and any groomsmen or ushers) so that no one is left flagging down a taxi!

However, if you know exactly what you want or you’re tying the knot in peak wedding season, it’s a good idea to get in touch with your preferred suppliers sooner to avoid disappointment.

If travel’s not essential, though, you can still capture some of the fun and atmospheric photographs you’d otherwise miss by hosting at one address. How about turning up to the ceremony in style with your best girls – horse and carriage, anyone? Or having the man of the moment zoom in on a Segway? Alternatively, hire a vehicle that you can escape in after the ceremony while sipping champagne and enjoying the first moments of married life.

So, for those moving between ceremony and reception sites, you’ll want to do so in a vehicle that perfectly complements your theme or colours for the day – a vintage car for a glam 1920s-style celebration or a sleek Rolls-Royce for an urban wedding, for example. You’ll want

“Arrive at your wedding in style in our multi-award winning VW Campers! www.deesideclassiccampers.com 01330 850555 or 07790 356660 office@deesideclassiccampers.com

fl www.grampianweddingdirectory.co.uk

192

♥

TRANSPORT

Guest transport is important, too. If flitting between venues, you may want to bus your friends and family from the ceremony to the reception; if not, check there’s plenty parking at both locations.

www.byrhea.co.uk

www.elitephotographics.co.uk

www.grampianweddingdirectory.co.uk

And if you’re based at one venue for the entire day, you may want to organise coaches to ferry your guests there and back, whether in the evening only or for full-day attendees, too. This can be a big help if your nuptials are happening somewhere remote as it removes the need for any designated drivers or extortionate taxi fees!

Finally, make sure you do ample research. Take time to look at prices and policies and consider popping along to potential suppliers for a visit.

This means you’ll be able to ensure the vehicles are well looked after and that images you’ve seen online are consistent with the real thing. They may even treat you to a wee test drive! ♥

HEADER

♥

193

www.grampianweddingdirectory.co.uk

194

T H E D I R E C T O RY

C O M PAN Y PRO F I L ES - T H E EV E N T

EVENT DECOR & ACCESSORIES 10 Dollar Shake X Y

The Tippling House 4 Belmont Street Aberdeen, AB10 1JE www.10dollarshake.com events@10dollarshake.com Contact: Adrian Gomes

Alan Ritchie Exhibition & Design X Y

26 Hilton Drive, Aberdeen, AB24 4NP 07974 223329 Paul / 07801 900311 Alan www.exh-design.co.uk info@exh-design.co.uk Contact: Alan Ritchie & Paul Ritchie

Art Deco Prosecco X

Unit 7 Blackhall Industrial Estate Inverurie, Aberdeenshire, AB51 4FS 01467 624872 www.artdecoprosecco.co.uk info@artdecoprosecco.co.uk Contact: Mark Copland

Candy Corner X Y [

95 Dee Village Millburn Street Aberdeen, AB11 6SZ 07400 198 777 www.candy-corner.com info@candy-corner.com Contact: Sarah Nyembo

Country Flavours Of Alford X [

Unit 2,Mark Industrial Estate Alford, AB33 8BZ 01975 564047 / 07736 090425 www.countryflavoursofalford.co.uk enquiries@countryflavoursofalford.co.uk Contact: Elizabeth Greig

Craigievar Marquee And Toilet Hire X Kirkton House Craigievar

By Alford, Aberdeenshire, AB33 8JR 019755 81553 / 07794 901542 www.craigievarmarqueehire.co.uk info@kirktonhouse.com Contact: Mike Findlay

Deeside Vintage Hire X \

12 St Duthac Crescent Banchory Aberdeenshire, AB31 5YW 07881 738 702 / 01330 823 986 www.deesidevintagehire.com deesidevintagehire@hotmail.com Contact: Linda Mcintyre

Esslemont Marquees X \

The Rock, Westfield, Contlaw Rd Milltimber, Aberdeen, AB13 0EX 01224 739188 / 07729 875441 www.esslemontmarquees.co.uk dan@esslemontmarquees.co.uk Contact: Dan Whiteford www.grampianweddingdirectory.co.uk

Event Fx Scotland X Y [

Unit 7 Blackhall Industrial Estate Inverurie, Aberdeenshire, AB51 4FS 01467 624872 / 07894 354350 eventfxscotland.co.uk info@eventforscotland.co.uk Contact: Mark Copland

Harthill Hospitality LLP X

Harthill Castle, Oyne, Insch, Aberdeenshire , AB52 6QX 01464 851103 / 07595 203 271 www.harthillhospitality.com mary@harthillhospitality.com Contact: Mary Campbell & Mark Fleming

Higher Calling Flowers & Events X Y [ \ Unit 4 Stell Road Aberdeen, AB11 5QR 07984 737482 www.highercallingflowersevents.com info@highercallingflowersevents.com Contact: Edna Mordi

Limelight Event Services X Unit 7b, 3 Carsegate Road, Inverness, IV3 8DU 01463 714019 www.limelights.co.uk weddings@limelights.co.uk Contact: Craig Duncan

N J E Firework Displays X

683 George Street Aberdeen, AB25 3XP 07745 251 664 njefireworksdisplays.co.uk norman_donald33@hotmail.com Contact: Norman Donald

North East Events X

15 Coutens Park, Old Meldrum, AB51 0PG 07969 536288 www.northeast-events.co.uk alison@northeast-events.co.uk Contact: Alison Blundell

Portsoy Ice Cream X Y

24 Seafield Street Portsoy, AB45 2QT 01261 842279 www.portsoyicecream.co.uk functions@portsoyicecream.co.uk Contact: Alex Murray

Rizza’s Of Huntly X Y

31 Steven Road Huntly Aberdeenshire , AB54 8SX 01466 792847 www.rizza.co.uk info@rizza.co.uk Contact: Katherine Brewer

Ruffle & Rose Events X [

Kilncraig, Strawberry Field Road, Westhill, Aberdeenshire, AB32 6TB 07734 648 385 www.ruffleandrose.co.uk hello@ruffleandrose.co.uk Contact: Gemma Williamson

Spotlessly Chic X (Wedding Pet Chaperone) Westwind Muir Of Fowlis, Alford, AB33 8JA 07801 283452 julie.hunter1@gmail.com Contact: Julie Hunter

The Balloon Studio X

294 George Street Aberdeen, AB25 1HL 01224 636 706 www.theballoonstudio.co.uk shop@theballoonstudio.co.uk Contact: Jeanette Carden

Vip Your Event X [

1 Learig Road Peterhead Aberdeenshire, AB42 3NP 07948 476059 / 07948 476060 vipyourevent@outlook.com Contact: Helen Duthie & Sean Will

Wedding Swings & Pretty Things Ltd X

The Steading Easter Terryvale Westhill, Dunecht, Aberdeenshire, AB32 7BS 01224 289730 / 07747 633532 www.weddingswingsandprettythings.co.uk andrew@weddingswingsandprettythings.co.uk Contact: Andrew Steinbach & Deborah McCombie

Your Day Wedding Services X Y [

Unit 4, Mains Of Tertowie Aberdeenshire, AB21 0TS 01224 649367 www.your-day.co.uk info@your-day.co.uk Contact: Andrew Dunn & Richard Trilk

TRANSPORT Deeside Classic Campers Ltd X Y [ Crann Dearg Drumhead, Finzean Aberdeenshire, AB31 6PB 01330 850555 / 0779 035 6660. www.deesideclassiccampers.com office@deesideclassiccampers.com Contact: Claire Page & Claire Page

Executive Chauffeur Services X

Adensmere Ury Dale Inverurie, AB51 3XW 07926 001044 www.chauffeursaberdeen.co.uk chauffeursaberdeen@btinternet.com Contact: Bill Knowles

Granite City Car Hire X [

Based In Aberdeen Aberdeenshire 07775 676666 www.granitecitycarhire.co.uk enquiries@granitecitycarhire.co.uk Contact: Gordon Sutherland

North East Events X

15 Coutens Park Old Meldrum, AB51 0PG 07969 536288 www.northeast-events.co.uk alison@northeast-events.co.uk Contact: Alison Blundell

Rainbow Prestige X

Rainbow Prestige Braehead Cove Road, Cove, Aberdeen, AB12 3NX 01224 898980 / 07872 813888 www.rainbowprestige.co.uk enquiries@rainbowprestige.co.uk Contact: Gary Leiper & Julie Leiper

TH E D I R E C T O RY

195

C O M PAN Y PRO F I L ES - T H E E VE N T Silver City Wedding Cars X [

18 Caledonian Place Aberdeen, AB11 6TT 07801 742 076 / 01224 590 117 www.silvercitycars.co.uk m.flaherty@btinternet.com Contact: Mike Flaherty

CAKES Cake That And Party Weddings X

Ardshiel, South Road, Oldmeldrum, Aberdeenshire AB51 0AB 07512 228812 enquiries@cakethatandpartyabdn.co.uk Contact: Emma Mcpherson

Cakes By Alli Baba X [

Unit A Laurencekirk Business Park Laurencekirk, AB30 1EY 07921 124605 www.cakesbyalli-baba.co.uk alli@cakesbyalli-baba.co.uk Contact: Alli Stewart

Cakes By Design At Cakes, Coffee & Mohr X 123 Holburn Street Aberdeen, AB10 6BP 07957 599155 www.aberdeenweddingcakes.co.uk bev@cakesbydesignuk.co.uk Contact: Bev Boakes

Celebration Cake Shop X

137 Crown Street Aberdeen, AB11 6HP 01224 595566 www.celebrationcakeshop.com info@celebrationcakeshop.com Contact: Linda Cowe

Harthill Hospitality LLP X

Iron Broo Ceilidh Band X

Wilde Thyme X Y [

Last Resort Band X

Harthill Castle, Oyne, Insch, Aberdeenshire. , AB52 6QX 01464 851103 / 07595 203 271 www.harthillhospitality.com mary@harthillhospitality.com Contact: Mary Campbell & Mark Fleming Olive House Endeavour Drive Endeavour Drive, Westhill, AB32 6UF 07934 297243 www.entier-services.com/wilde-thyme wildethyme@entier-services.com Contact: Shawn Oconnor

CHILDCARE Thank Evans Childcare Agency Ltd X

23 Rubislaw Den North Aberdeen, AB15 4AL 01224 329120 www.thank-evans.co.uk gillian@thank-evans.co.uk Contact: Susan Evans Or Gillian Thom

ENTERTAINMENT Event FX Scotland X Y [

Unit 7 Blackhall Industrial Estate Inverurie, Aberdeenshire, AB51 4FS 01467 624872 / 07894 354350 eventfxscotland.co.uk info@eventforscotland.co.uk Contact: Mark Copland

Couture Wedding Cakes By Sweetcheeks Ltd X

Fifth Dimension Magic X Y

Reimshill Fyvie, Turriff Aberdeenshire, AB53 8JX 07590 604339 www.coutureweddingcakes.co.uk sweetcheeks@coutureweddingcakes.co.uk Contact: Amy Archibald

16 Seafield Gardens Aberdeen, AB15 7YB 01224 706755 / 07763 464947 www.fifthdimension.biz ivor@fifthdimension.biz Contact: Ivor Smith

Gorgeously Sweet Cake Emporium X

Fireworx Scotland X Y [

38 Fern Drive, Portlethen, Aberdeen, AB12 4TB 07904 470721 gorgeouslysweetcakeemporium@outlook.com Contact: Kate Archer

FOOD & DRINK 10 Dollar Shake X Y

The Tippling House 4 Belmont Street Aberdeen, AB10 1JE www.10dollarshake.com events@10dollarshake.com Contact: Adrian Gomes

Art Deco Prosecco X

Unit 7, Blackhall Industrial Estate Inverurie, Aberdeenshire, AB51 4FS 01467 624872 www.artdecoprosecco.co.uk info@artdecoprosecco.co.uk Contact: Mark Copland

Country Flavours Of Alford X [

Unit 2, Mark Industrial Estate Alford, AB33 8BZ 01975 564047 / 07736 090425 www.countryflavoursofalford.co.uk enquiries@countryflavoursofalford.co.uk Contact: Elizabeth Greig

Unit 7 Balckhall Industrial Estate Inverurie, Aberdeenshire, AB51 4FS 01467 624872 / 07894 354350 fireworxscotland.co.uk info@fireworxscotland.co.uk Contact: Mark Copland

Gibby The Piper X

Aberdeenshire Will Travel To Suit Client 07540 539689 www.gibbythepiper.co.uk pipey@me.com Contact: Gibby Macnaught

Graham Geddes Band X

33 Corse Wynd Kingswells Aberdeen, AB15 8TP 07816 906385 / 07816 906385 www.grahamg.com gizasong@aol.com Contact: Graham Geddes

Hazel Mair - Wedding Music

17 Belvidere Crescent Aberdeen, AB25 2NH 07779 237107 musicalmairs@aol.com Contact: Hazel Mair

Sunnyhill,29 Redmoss Road, Aberdeen, AB12 3JD 07802 861390 / 01224 874570 www.ironbroo.scot charlieabel@ironbroo.scot Contact: Charlie Abel Aberdeenshire will travel to accomodate Client 01358 743182 / 07828 913881 www.lastresortband.co.uk info@lastresortband.co.uk Contact: Dave & Diane Morrice

Luke Radford Saxophonist XBased In Aberdeen City And Shire Can Travel To Venue’s When Required 07903 655 898 lukeradford.music@hotmail.com Contact: Luke Radford

Miles Hendricks X [

Aberdeen 0797 693 9831 www.mileshendricks.com info@mileshendricks.com Contact: Miles Hendricks

Music By Marie

12 Gordon Place Inverurie Aberdeenshire, AB51 4GP 01467 621846 / 07903 824267 www.musicbymarie.co.uk info@musicbymarie.co.uk Contact: Marie Main

N J E Firework Displays X

683 George Street Aberdeen, AB25 3XP 07745 251 664 njefireworksdisplays.co.uk norman_donald33@hotmail.com Contact: Norman Donald

The Big Show X

Unit 6, Spires Business Centre Muggiemoss Road, Aberdeen, AB21 9NY 01224 691533 / 07803 060313 www.thebigshow.co.uk info@thebigshow.co.uk Contact: Rob Or Alex Flett

The Limit X Y

46 Lee Crescent North, Bridge Of Don, Aberdeen, AB22 8FP 01224 703191 / 07979 468861 www.thelimitband.co.uk enquiries@thelimitband.co.uk Contact: John Duncan

Thistle Piping X

8 Widgeon Way Ellon Aberdeenshire, AB41 9ET 07941 210041 www.thistlepiping.com julie@thistlepiping.com Contact: Julie Brinklow

Touch Of Class X

Unit 10, Logman Centre Greenbank Crescent Aberdeen, AB12 3BG 01224 895895 / 07703 479992 www.touchofclass.co.uk info@touchofclass.co.uk Contact: Michael Kilbride www.grampianweddingdirectory.co.uk

196

♼

HEADER

Copper-tastic Shimmer!

The metal for 2019 is definitely copper. Use it to add a warming shimmer to your table settings with candlesticks, lanterns and cutlery, and use edible copper strands for an on-trend and geometrically dazzling cake trim over deep blue icing. For the bride, embellish your shoes with intricate floral designs on the heels, matching with a metallic wedding dress.

Copper tones can be added to your make-up, and you could dress your entourage in deep velvets with dramatic copper jewellery for effect!

1. www.gingerray.co.uk / 2. www.hugoboss.com/uk / 3. angharadbridal.co.uk 4. www.brodiecountryfare.com / 5. jamieson-carry.com / 6. www.gingerray.co.uk 7. charlottemills.com / 8. www.avoriobridal.com / 9. countryflavoursofalford.co.uk 10. www.entier-services.com/wilde-thyme / 11. www.coutureweddingcakes.co.uk

www.grampianweddingdirectory.co.uk

1.

2.

3.

5.

4.

7.

6.

9.

8.

10.

11.

198

♥

HEADER

Love and Lego ❤

www.grampianweddingdirectory.co.uk

HEADER

♥

199

www.grampianweddingdirectory.co.uk

200

♥

HEADER

Scott Robertson took Neema Soni totally by surprise when he proposed whilst she was chilling out, watching cartoons.

However, she quickly switched to wedding mode and they pulled together a fun-filled Scottish-Indian fusion wedding for 200 guests on 15 July 2018.

Neema told us all about it..

I was always the kid that loved Star Trek and comics (before it was cool) and it seemed that Scott was too – our mutual love for Lego and sci-fi was one of the reasons we clicked. So, we knew immediately that our wedding theme would be ‘full-blown geek’.

Our first priority was buying lots of Lego to use to as centrepieces. We decided to mix our guests up on the table plan so they wouldn’t be sitting with lots of people they knew, and thought offering Lego to play with would break the ice. It worked – people got competitive at times and we ended up with some pretty impressive creations!

www.grampianweddingdirectory.co.uk

Anyway, the theme continued from there – our invitations were based on The Hitchhiker’s Guide to the Galaxy and the tables were named after vehicles of science fiction.

When it came to dress shopping, it wasn’t really my thing… but I had to do it twice – once in Scotland for my Western dress and once in India for my traditional outfit. In Scotland, I knew what I wanted and picked my white dress for its simplicity. In India, it took me six hours to convince them I didn’t want the traditional gold!

Instead, I went for a red and silver number, which my grandmother had a soft spot for.

HEADER My accessories were mix and match – jewellery that’s been in my family for a long time, paired with geek chic Converse trainers. We had a henna party the day before the wedding to get the female guests appropriately accessorised, too!

I followed Indian tradition and didn’t have any bridesmaids – but I did have a say in what our guests wore. I wanted to reflect the fusion of cultures (my family know Scott as Scottish Scott from Scotland!) so asked all the guests to come in Indian dress for the ceremony. I supplied outfits for my Western friends and Scott’s family went all out, with saris for the ladies and traditional outfits for the gents. Then, in the evening, we asked everyone to wear Western clothes. So, the ladies came in nice dresses and the men in kilts. It was so nice to see everyone get so involved.

Scott followed suit with an Indian outfit during the day and a lovely kilt later on. And, of course, I did too – having two bridal preps was exhausting but so worth it.

Our main ceremony was Indian, conducted by a priest, but we had a Scottish registrar there, too.

They explained what they were doing to make sure the guests were involved and understood both sides.

When we were pronounced husband and wife, it was with a double-barrelled surname. I didn’t want to lose my heritage when I got married so had joked to Scott about taking my name… and he agreed! I

♥

201

didn’t want him to lose his identity either though, so we honoured both cultures by double-barrelling.

Afterwards we had a lunch – it was supposed to be just snacks but my parents did what all Indians do and ensured everyone was well fed – and, later, an Asian food tasting for dinner. There were so many dishes that I can’t remember them all!

We started the evening by bumbling along (even though we’d had dance lessons beforehand!) to Always with Me by Joe Satriani. We then had a bit of ceilidh and a DJ, who took our requests and filled the dance floor. There was also a magician and lots of sweet treats – popcorn, a slushie machine and a totally indulgent chocolate fountain!

For me, a geek at heart, the highlight had to be seeing all the guests – young and old, and from different backgrounds – playing with the Lego on their tables!

Overall, though, our suppliers were all brilliant and did their best for us. I’d say to other readers not to panic and, above all, ignore expectation – do what makes you happy. ♥ VENUE: NORWOOD HALL HOTEL CATERERS: ASIAN WEDDING SERVICES WEDDING DRESS: PERFECT BRIDAL ROOMS HAIR: HOUSE OF HAIR MAKE-UP: FRANCINE RAY MOTHER-OF-THE-BRIDE OUTFIT: PERFECT BRIDAL ROOMS PHOTOGRAPHER: BY RHEA VIDEO: FLAT 4D MEDIA INVITATIONS: YOU ARE INVITED

TABLE PLAN: DESIGNS BY KIRSTEN FAVOURS: ICEBERG GLASS CAKE: CAKESBYDESIGN DECOR: ASIAN WEDDING SERVICES PIPER: THISTLE PIPING CEILIDH: TED CHRISTOPHER AND BANNOCKBURN DJ: ELITE PROMOTIONS OTHER ENTERTAINMENT: PHOENIX MAGIC ABERDEEN, SILLYSNAPZ DANCE LESSONS: ALL STEPS FIRST DANCE

www.grampianweddingdirectory.co.uk

202

♥

PHOTOGRAPHY

Perfect Photo Shots Of all the many facets of your wedding day that you need to organise, the one that’ll have the most lasting impact for you is who you hire to take the photos of your happy day. The specialist you pick to record the highlights and emotions for you, your family and friends will shoulder the big responsibility of capturing memories that’ll last you a lifetime – ones that you’ll hopefully share with your children, grandchildren and generations to come.

www.grampianweddingdirectory.co.uk

RECORDING THE DAY 202 PHOTOGRAPHY 216 COMPANY PROFILES 218 REAL LIFE WEDDING

www.byrhea.co.uk

PHOTOGRAPHY

♥

203

www.grampianweddingdirectory.co.uk

Essentially, you’re creating a future family heirloom.

You’ve probably poured over pics of weddings from the past yourselves – your parents’ and grandparents’, for instance. Think of all the stories you’ve listened to in the process – who’s hat blocked your uncle’s view of the bride or the funny tale of Great Auntie Babs trying to do the Macarena in the opposite direction to everybody else. Each photo not only catches the action on the day; it provokes memories of laughter, tears and love that last long after the confetti has been swept away and the final champagne cork popped.

www.simonclubb.com

HEADER

♥

205

www.grampianweddingdirectory.co.uk

206

♥

PHOTOGRAPHY

www.deesidephoto.co.uk

For such an important task, you’ll want to ensure you get the best northeast expert that your money can buy. Luckily, we’re blessed with some amazingly creative artists who can turn your dream shots into reality, whatever your budget.

Looking for ideas and inspiration? Check the pages of GWD first to see who might have the style and panache you’re looking for. Then widen

www.simonclubb.com

www.grampianweddingdirectory.co.uk

your research to their websites, other magazines and ask around for some recommendations.

Check with your wedding venue to see if they can suggest anyone that they’ve worked with, too. It’s handy if your photographer already knows where the best backdrops around your wedding location are, saving a bit of time for scouting spots and planning where to shoot your post-ceremony pics.

HEADER

♥

207

www.grampianweddingdirectory.co.uk

208

♥

PHOTOGRAPHY

www.aboynephotographics.com www.elitephotographics.co.uk

www.aboynephotographics.com

Whatever you do, though, don’t base your choice on this alone – get appointments with potential suppliers to find out more about them. You need to know if you’re comfortable with them, for starters, and see a complete wedding album to find out the range of shots they can provide.

Websites, by their nature as ‘come and buy me’ marketing tools, will naturally be populated with specially selected photos to showcase the photographer’s best work. Find out what they can achieve over a whole day before signing on any dotted lines. www.deesidephoto.co.uk

www.grampianweddingdirectory.co.uk

www.janiebarclay.com

HEADER

♥

209

www.grampianweddingdirectory.co.uk

210

♥

PHOTOGRAPHY

www.jonathanaddie.com www.grampianweddingdirectory.co.uk

PHOTOGRAPHY

♥

211

And don’t be put off by any package deals they might advertise online, thinking they’re financially out of reach for you. Budgets can be worked around and a personalised deal created to suit what you can afford is always possible. Include money restrictions (if you have any) up front in your discussions and your potential snapper can make suggestions accordingly. They can do amazing things, even in just a few hours, to cover ‘musthaves’ like the ceremony and speeches.

The other essentials on the money front are insurance – professionals should have this to cover all potential pitfalls, giving you peace of mind – and payment terms. Find out about deposits, deadlines for final payments, any instalments plans they might have and everything that’s included in the final cost. For example, is an album part of the deal or is that an additional charge? What about DVDs, special effects, etc? You’ll also need to check if you’re liable for any travel expenses, especially if your venue’s out of town. Think about all the tiny details and get all the fees listed at the start of the process, so you don’t encounter any extra costs further down the line.

www.simonclubb.com

www.grampianweddingdirectory.co.uk

212

♥

PHOTOGRAPHY

www.aboynephotographics.com

www.aboynephotographics.com

www.aberdeenphoto.com

www.deesidephoto.co.uk

www.simonclubb.com

www.jonathanaddie.com www.elitephotographics.co.uk

www.elitephotographics.co.uk

www.grampianweddingdirectory.co.uk

www.deesidephoto.co.uk

PHOTOGRAPHY

www.deesidephoto.co.uk www.jenniferriddell.co.uk

♥

213

Remember to make sure that you meet all the team once you’ve decided who’s the person for you, too. Ask if the main photographer will be doing the whole shoot alone or if someone else will be involved. Having a second shooter’s becoming more popular now, so that both halves of the wedding party can have their prep from dawn till dusk captured, just like the bride’s… It’s everyone’s big day, after all!

Make sure you’re introduced to whoever else is coming along so you know them and feel equally comfortable working with them. A relaxed couple equals better photos – if you’re on edge in someone’s company, it will show.

www.grampianweddingdirectory.co.uk

214

♥

PHOTOGRAPHY

Unless… Some optimistic proposers may do a spot of forward planning before popping the question and manage to sneakily capture that on camera, too! Catching your (hopefully!) soonto-be fiancée’s reaction to you getting down on one knee is becoming increasingly popular. Use it to get the word out on social media, sharing that magical moment with all your mates, or incorporate it into the speeches at the reception for an ‘Aww’ moment. Plus, it’s a priceless addition to your ‘journey to the altar’ collection.

www.grampianweddingdirectory.co.uk

www.jenniferriddell.co.uk

Why not kill two birds with one stone and organise a pre-wedding planning trip to help everyone get to know each other better? You could head out to your venue to introduce your photographer(s) to the team on site, so they can liaise in the runup to the main event, and do a few engagement shots while you’re there. A great opportunity to break the ice and a lovely way of documenting the whole timeline of your nuptials from postproposal.

PHOTOGRAPHY

♥

215

www.deesidephoto.co.uk

On the actual day, it’s a good idea to have a list of the shots you want, especially if you’re going traditional with the family and friends pics. Your photographer can guide you so the list doesn’t become unmanageable in length, and recruit the groomsmen, bridesmaid and ushers (if you have them) to gather the various groups and line them up ready for their moment in the spotlight.

If you’re having the pre-ceremony prep photographed, discuss ground rules for what you want shot and for whose eyes they are. For example, more intimate pics in that sexy lingerie you’ve bought for your hubby-to-be might be on your wish list, but make sure they don’t end up online for all the guests to see. Mishaps can and do happen.

The other ‘on the day’ pics you might want – prior to the service – are ‘first look’ photos, which are very in now. You can have the choice of the father of the bride seeing you in your dress for the first time; the mother of the bride and her bridesmaids if they haven’t been allowed a sneak peek beforehand; or the groom catching his first glimpse of his sweetheart as she makes her way up the aisle.

www.grampianweddingdirectory.co.uk

216

♥

PHOTOGRAPHY

www.simonclubb.com

Not ones for tradition? Not a problem. As couples turn their backs on the ‘old’ customs regarding weddings for a more relaxed and personal affair, the accompanying photo trends are following them – with class. Posed shots are out in favour of reportage or documentary style shoots.

Capturing off-guard moments, guests milling around chatting, funky angles… it’s more of a ‘fly on the wall’ approach to wedding photography, which can produce some beautifully candid pics of the happy couple and everyone enjoying themselves.

When it comes to your ‘happily wedded couple’ photo shoot, you can dispense with tradition

www.grampianweddingdirectory.co.uk

there, too. The trend is towards avoiding the chaos of the day itself and disappearing the day after the main event to get your own pics done. It does mean putting on all your finery for a second time, but it also allows you more time to finalise that perfect photo without the anxiety of time pressures to keep to the timetable for the reception and so on. And if you want to be even more unconventional, why not do this before the ceremony? Take some leisurely time in the morning once you’re suited and booted to snap romantic photos… then you’re free to relax and enjoy your big day without needing to miss time with family and friends.

PHOTOGRAPHY

♥

217

www.jonathanaddie.com

www.grampianweddingdirectory.co.uk

218

♥

PHOTOGRAPHY As part of a more relaxed set-up, you might want to go the whole hog with Instagramming your nuptials, creating your own hashtags for folk to share their pics of the day. (Check that they are individual and unique to you so you don’t end up with someone else picking up your pics!) It’s a great way to see parts of the ceremony and reception that are otherwise out of reach. To be fair, your photographer can’t be everywhere! If you still want hard copies to add to your memorabilia for the day, you can be reassured that there’s an app for that, too!

www.byrhea.co.uk

This’ll add to the entertainment for your guests, as well, but you can increase the fun by having selfie stations. Throw in some silly hats or costumes for everyone to dress up in – follow your theme if you have one! – and watch them enjoy acting like kids. Hard copies could be added to an album of memories for the happy couple, along with personal notes from family and friends for you to read together later.

Fancy going completely against the social media tide? Then have an unplugged ceremony. Remind your guests that you have a professional to take the pics, and that you’d prefer them to ditch the cameras and smartphones so that they’re really with you as you take your vows… rather than viewing the whole thing through a lens as they snap informal shots or video it. You could also follow the trend that says ‘No!’ to hashtags by politely asking your nearest and dearest not to post all day on social media, sharing every detail of your special day before you’ve had a chance to revel in it yourselves!

www.jonathanaddie.com

www.janiebarclay.com

Logan Sangster – LMPA/LBIPP Deeside Photographics

Graeme Buchan – LMPA, LBIPP, LSWPP Elite Photographics Ltd

www.thempa.com www.grampianweddingdirectory.co.uk

For some special effects to make your pics stand out from the crowd, there’s a lot of choice… On the day, you could have a drone do aerial shots to see your ceremony from unimaginable angles (check they’re licensed for this). Or why not set off a smoke bomb for some colourful atmosphere and a dreamy backdrop for your couple pics? After the event, your photographer can work magic by creating shots in sepia or black and white for a classic effect, if you so desire.

When it comes to getting your pics, ask how long it’ll take. They could be online fairly quickly (make sure you send your guests the link!), but hard copies may require more time depending on the option you’ve gone for.

PHOTOGRAPHY

♥

219

www.byrhea.co.uk

DVDs and USBs are still an option, but albums are back on trend and provide a wonderful way to share your special day for many years to come.

Great for getting everyone together for tea and cake for a post-wedding catch-up.

www.aboynephotographics.com

One last, extremely important piece of advice from the team at GWD… Feed your photographer!

Especially if they’re with you all day, it’s only fair – and you’ll benefit from an energised and happy snapper, as opposed to a tired, grumpy and hungry one! ♥

www.grampianweddingdirectory.co.uk

220

T H E D I R E C T O RY COMPANY PROFI L E S - GE T TI NG ST ARTED

PHOTOGRAPHERS Aberdeenphoto.com X \

Wellington Road Studio 256 Wellington Road Aberdeen, AB12 3DJ 01224 877499 www.aberdeenphoto.com neil@aberdeenphoto.com Contact: Neil Gordon

Aboyne Photographics X Y [

4 Netherley Place, Ballater, Aberdeenshire , AB35 5QE 01339 755304 / 07787 259120 www.aboynephotographics.com info@aboynephotographics.com Contact: Russell & Laura Hogg

Aeroserv Drone Operations X Y [ Aberdeen 0779 699 8423 www.aeroserv.co.uk info@aeroserv.co.uk Contact: Ross Jolly

By Rhea X [

The Whins, Ellon, Aberdeenshire , AB41 8PT 01358 761210 www.hayleyfraserphotography.co.uk hello@hayleyfraserphotography.co.uk Contact: Hayley Fraser & Craig Hadden

Janie Barclay Photography X [

Wedding And Portrait Photography Aberdeen City And Shire, AB25 1GT 07807 776016 www.janiebarclay.com iska@janiebarclay.com Contact: Iska Birnie

Hawthorn House 16 Bridge Street Banchory, AB31 5SX 01330 824300 www.deesidephoto.co.uk deesidephoto@aol.com Contact: J Logan

Elite Photographics Ltd X

27 Finlayson Street Fraserburgh, AB43 9JQ 01346 511622 www.elitephotographics.co.uk graeme@elitephotographics.co.uk Contact: Graeme Buchan, LBIPP, LMPA

www.grampianweddingdirectory.co.uk

Aberdeenphoto.com X \

Wellington Road Studio 256 Wellington Road Aberdeen, AB12 3DJ 01224 877499 www.aberdeenphoto.com neil@aberdeenphoto.com Contact: Neil Gordon

Hayley Fraser Photography - Weddings By Hayley & Craig X [

KAD Photography X

Deeside Photographics X [

PHOTO BOOTHS

Jonathan Addie Photography X Y [

Calum Riddell Photography X Y

93 Ash-hill Drive, Aberdeen, AB165YR 07824 555746 www.clarkejossphotography.co.uk clarkejossphotography@yahoo.com Contact: Clarke Joss

6 Charlestown Walk, Cove Bay, Aberdeen AB12 3EZ 07885 309763 www.simonclubb.co.uk simon@simonclubb.co.uk Contact: Simon Clubb

Fabby Fotos Photobooth & Magic Mirror Hire X

18 Macdonald Road Stonehaven Aberdeenshire, AB39 2LY 07985 273041 www.jenniferriddell.co.uk jennifer@jenniferriddell.co.uk Contact: Jennifer Riddell

Craigmancie Croft, Bridge Of Marnoch, Huntly, Aberdeenshire, AB54 7UX 07903 856816 www.jonathanaddie.com info@jonathanaddie.com Contact: Jonathan Addie

Clarke Joss Photography X [

Simon Clubb Photography X

Jennifer Riddell Photography X

The Studio, Chelsea Road Inverurie, Aberdeenshire, AB51 3PL 07789 771786 www.byrhea.co.uk rhea@byrhea.co.uk Contact: Rhea Mckenzie Wedding and Portrait Specialist Aberdeen Aberdeenshire 07528 145314 www.calumriddell.com calum@calumriddell.com Contact: Calum Riddell

www.deesidephoto.co.uk

Hayley Fraser Photography - Weddings By Hayley & Craig X [

Home Based Studio In Bucksburn/ Kingswells Area Aberdeen 01224 714266 07837 381937 www.kad-photography.com kellyduncan@kad-photography.com Contact: Kelly Duncan

Aberdeen/Aberdeenshire 07974 791102 / 01651 872945 www.fabbyfotos.co.uk info@rm-leisure.co.uk Contact: Bob Foy

The Whins, Ellon, Aberdeenshire , AB41 8PT 01358 761210 www.hayleyfraserphotography.co.uk hello@hayleyfraserphotography.co.uk Contact: Hayley Fraser & Craig Hadden

KAD Photography X

Home Based Studio In Bucksburn/ Kingswells Area Aberdeen 01224 714266 / 07837 381937 www.kad-photography.com kellyduncan@kad-photography.com Contact: Kelly Duncan

WEDDING FILMS AC Wedding Films X

45 Raemoir Road Banchory, AB31 5UL 07491 323 415 mikemeller.co.uk mikemellerphotography@gmail.com Contact: Mike Meller

38 Eigie Crescent Balmedie Aberdeenshire, AB23 8WH 01358 742035 / 07759 333475 www.acweddingfilms.co.uk info@acweddingfilms.co.uk Contact: Ian Clubb

Neal Murray Photography

Bob Thomson (est 1969)

Mike Meller Photography X Y

6 Seafield Avenue Aberdeen, AB15 7XB 01224 318988 www.nealmurray.com neal@nealmurray.com Contact: Neal Murray

Braemar, AB35 5YW 013397 41214 www.bobsweddingvideos.co.uk bobthomsonvideos@gmail.com Contact: Bob Thomson

Portraiture X

15 Springfield Road Aberdeen, AB15 7RU 01224 314999 / 07720 891784 www.ms-films.co.uk info@ms-films.co.uk Contact: Mark Stuart

5 Westfield Terrace Aberdeen, AB25 2RU 01224 64699507730 436656 www.portra.it malc@portra.it Contact: Malcolm Duckworth

Mark Stuart Wedding Films X

★ gwd competition ★ gwd competition ★ gwd competition HEADER 221 ★ ♥

Win a scrumptious dinner and a luxury overnight stay for two, complete with an indulgent champagne breakfast, at the 19th-century Macdonald Norwood Hall Hotel.

★ win! ★ win! ★ win! ★ win! ★ win! ★ win! ★ win! ★ win! ★ win! ★ Eagle-eyed readers might have spotted a famous face among the pics this issue – that internationally celebrated crooner, Rod Stewart, has snuck into a few wedding shots! With a career spanning nearly six decades, this musical knight’s biggest hits include Maggie May, Baby Jane and Da Ya Think I’m Sexy? – to name but a few of his well-known chart toppers. So, to win this prize, we have a simple question for you to answer. Just tell us:

How many times does Rod Stewart appear in this issue of GWD? Log on at www.grampianweddingdirectory.co.uk and click on ‘Norwood Competition’ to submit your entry.

Closing date: Friday 20 September 2019. All usual competition rules apply and the editor’s decision is final.

www.grampianweddingdirectory.co.uk

222

♥

AFTER THE EVENT

Finishing After the Event Touches Who knew the to-do lists continued after: “I do?” Thankfully, we’ve pulled together everything you need to take care of, so you can concentrate on drinking all the champagne you were gifted!

AFTER THE EVENT

♥

223

and providers of insurance, utilities, mortgage and mobile phone. And think about memberships, subscriptions and store cards.

The presents:

The legalities: If you’ve opted for a traditional route to marriage,

you will be about to move in together so there’ll be lots of financial admin – think about engaging a reputable mortgage advisor and consider organising wills, too.

The dress: Packing away your much-adored wedding gown may

bring a tear to the eye, but it really is best to do this as soon as possible. Have it professionally dry cleaned and boxed to ensure it’s packaged perfectly and won’t deteriorate over time.

The name change: It’s still most common for brides to take

on their partner’s surname but, these days, a small percentage of grooms turn the tradition on its head and decide to match their missus. A new trend, too, is blending the surnames. Regardless of your choice, there’ll be some associated admin – look at your driver’s licence, passport, bank, workplace records, medical records

If you organised a gift list, why not get it delivered whilst you’re on honeymoon? Would MOB or MOG wait in for the arrival as one last wedding task?

Your pressies will be a lovely welcome on your return. Don’t forget to thank your generous friends and family, too!

The big day, all over again:

Ease back-to-work blues with the first glance at your wedding photographs and/or video! How about setting up a special bridal party viewing evening with lots of fizz and tasty treats? The perfect way to wave goodbye to the wedding diet! Remember to give your guests a note of the gallery address, too. ♥

Planning a wedding is an exciting time. However, there are other areas to be considered as well...  

Are you thinking of buying a new home?

Do you want to review your existing mortgage rate?

Then speak to Nathan from Danestone Mortgage & Financial Services for a free, no obligation quote. Nathan has access to the whole of the mortgage market to make sure you get the most competitive deal. Appointments available during the day, evenings and weekends.

t: 07548 169495 e: nathan@danestonemortgage.com w: www.danestonemortgage.com

THE D I R E CTO R Y C O M P A N Y PRO F ILES - A F TE R TH E E VE NT

Exclusive Offer!

No Broker Fees when you quote

‘GWD19’

FINANCIAL & ESTATE AGENTS Danestone Mortgage Financial Services X Y

Mortgage Advisor 20 Newburgh Drive, Bridge Of Don, Aberdeen, AB22 8SR 07548 169495 www.danestonemortgage.com nathan@danestonemortgage.com Contact: Nathan Lamb www.grampianweddingdirectory.co.uk

224

♥

HEADER

Make your Wedding Vision a Reality... ...with 2020 vision at TECA January 18 & 19 2020 www.grampianweddingdirectory.co.uk

YW

WE

HEADER

♼

225

- The biggest and best wedding exhibition in the northeast of Scotland - Nearly 200 exhibitors, many of whom only exhibit at YWE

www.yourweddingexhibition.com X [

www.grampianweddingdirectory.co.uk

226

♥

HEADER

www.grampianweddingdirectory.co.uk