A Isle of Skye Winter Wedding on a Beach

A beach wedding, held on the edge of the loch at the foot of the mountains. This Isle of Skye wedding blew all of my expectations, although the weather was typical of November in Scotland, very wet. You would never have known it, everyone was so happy to be there.

The Details


Road leading to the beach ceremony at Isle of Skye Wedding

Dornie Village Hall

 Dornie & District Community Hall, on the edge of Loch Long looking over to Eilean Donan Castle.

A Beautiful winter wedding with a traditional hand tying ceremony set on the beach

Getting Ready in Balmacara

I spent the morning in Balmacara with Mark and the lads, he got ready at his family home then we all went down to the derelict Balmacara Campsite for a couple of photos. Mark and his pals spent lots of time here growing up so it was important to get a couple of photos, afterwards we all jumped in the Transit and went down to the beach.

A Wild Winter Beach Wedding in the Rain

Just down the single track road from the home they share together is a remote wild beach, rain poured relentlessly as guests arrived, fully prepared for the downpour. Dogs in jackets, waterproof suits zipped to the chin, wellies splashing through puddles, and umbrellas bobbing in the wind. Nothing, not even the wild weather, was going to stop this celebration. The rain wasn’t just endured, it was embraced! Without a doubt, this was the wettest wedding I’ve ever witnessed.

A Rain Soaked Handfasting Ceremony by the Sea.

Rhianon arrived in a pair of cool wellies and a stunning white cape, she was piped down onto the beach arm in arm with her dad. She then stood face to face with Mark as their hands were bound together, they shared vows and a few tears surrounded by their loved ones. Symbolically tying the knot during this beautiful and emotional handfasting ceremony.

Bagpiper Guiding the Wedding Procession.

They were led back down the road by the piper with the wedding party behind them, it was so lovely to hear the pipes and a joy to document. The giant old trees lining the path to the beach had shed their leaves, creating a golden carpet beneath the rain-soaked sky. Despite the weather, the scene was incredible. What a way to begin your wedding celebration.

Wedding Reception at Dornie Village Hall.

The reception was held at the Dornie Village Hall overlooking Loch Duich and the famous Eilean Donan Castle. The celebrations were incredible, cutting the cake with a sword, sparklers and ceilidh dancing into the night.

RHIANNON, MARK, ALL YOUR FRIENDS AND FAMILY THANKS FOR SHARING YOUR DAY AND TRUSTING ME TO CAPTURE THESE MOMENTS.

I ABSOLUTELY LOVED IT X

faqS

for planning aN OUTDOOR WINTER wedding IN SCOTLAND

01

What’s the weather really like in winter?

Always have a bad weather plan. Even if the weathers great make sure you’ve got a plan to cover all the seasons that the highlands might throw at you. Your plan might be embracing the rain, so wellies, ponchos and warm weatherproof clothes.

02

How to Keep Everyone Warm Outdoors?

Preparing all your guests so they can dress accordingly to the weather but you could also provide blankets, handwarmers and hot drinks. Is it possible to have fitpits at your ceremony spot?

03

How do we manage the “Scottish midge”?

Good news – there are no midges in winter, the frustration from the midges is one thing you won’t have to deal with.

04

Do we need a “Plan B”?

Searching for venues that have a “Plan B” indoor space that is just as aesthetically pleasing as the outdoor spot in case of torrential rain or storms.

05

Can we get married anywhere in Scotland?

Yes, you can marry almost anywhere with an approved celebrant, but there is some paperwork to complete in advance. As long as the celebrant agrees and you have the landowner’s permission if it is private land.

06

What paperwork is required?

You must submit an M10 Marriage Notice form to the registrar in the district where the ceremony spot is located no earlier than three months and no later than 29 days before the date.

“She really captured our day in the most wonderful way. I loved seeing all the pictures of all the boys getting into their kilts. All the laughs and joy of friends together!

She captured so many memories for us, we found so many lovely things and reactions that we otherwise might have missed!”

– RHIANNON + MARK

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