Glasgow University Chapel and Oran Mor - Diary of a Bride

I recently asked a few of the couples I photographed this summer if they would write a piece for my blog about their wedding day. I wanted it to be in their own words as if writing a diary entry not just about me their photographer but the build up to the day and the day itself.

This week were are at Glasgow University Chapel and Oran Mor with Lynsey and Andrew who were married in May 2011, over to you...

Andy and I married on 28th May 2011 and, even all these months on, I smile when I think of the wedding. It was the most unbelievable day, with so many highlights, and one I would do time and time again, if only we could.

Andy and I met at Glasgow University and loved the time that we spent living in the City’s West End. So much so that we instantly knew that we wanted to have our wedding in Glasgow, even though we were planning it 8 years after graduating and now living in Newcastle. And so we did, having the ceremony at the Glasgow University Chapel (the obvious choice!), followed by a reception at Òran Mór. Both were fantastic venues, the amazing architecture and stain glass windows in each providing the perfect backdrop and colours to our wedding. It was a fabulous feeling, if not a bit overwhelming, walking into the Chapel on my Dad’s arm, to see Andy at the altar, and all of our family and friends (many of whom we met whilst at University) in the pews. My two and half year old niece (my flower girl) also found it all a bit too much when it was time to surprise me with a lucky horseshoe, opting to sit in the middle of the aisle rather than come to the alter – bless! 

I have to say that the wedding planners at both venues were brilliant to deal with throughout. Carole, the planner at Glasgow Uni, is simply lovely and was a complete lifesaver on the day, making sure that everyone in the wedding party knew what to do and when, as well as calming nerves. Nothing was too much trouble for Louise at Òran Mór and her advice on timings for the reception was invaluable. She and her team also fully coordinated the set up of the Auditorium on the morning of the wedding, taking delivery of the cake from Special Days, table decorations by Grace Flowers, and seat covers from PMG Events. This was fabulous as it meant that we could really enjoy the morning of the wedding, without worrying about table plans etc.

I do laugh though when I think back to the morning and early afternoon of the wedding. The ceremony wasn’t until 4pm and so we had loads and loads of time to take a trip out from One Devonshire Gardens (where we were getting ready and were treated brilliantly by its staff) to a hairdresser in Bothwell and get back in time to get our makeup done. We didn’t, however, expect to get stuck in a huge traffic jam on the M8, caused by an accident, on the way back which delayed us by an hour – needless to say that journey was a wee bit tense! It was definitely a worthwhile trip though – we all had great hair and the hairdresser loved my headpiece so much that he offered to buy it from me after the wedding – a result, as I was already planning to sell it on ebay! My mum, my bridesmaid and I all had our makeup done professionally by Nadine of Eye Candy Scotland. This is something I’d definitely recommend as it felt like a real treat and also meant that we didn’t get stressed out about wonky eyeliner and Pollyanna cheeks.

Following the ceremony, we had a drinks reception in the University Cloisters, with music provided by the Arion Quartet (www.arionquartet.com). The initial plan was to have the reception within the actual Cloisters but this was moved into the building as it was extremely windy and rather ‘fresh’ on the day. Nevertheless, this was a really lovely part of the wedding as it provided us with an opportunity to say hello to our guests and have a glass of champagne (which did wonders for the nerves!) before Nick whisked us off to have the formal shots done. 

Before heading up to Oran Mor, we also had a few shots taken in The Cloisters. Nick and our Ushers had to work hard to keep visitors to The Cloisters from walking into the shot but their work more than definitely paid off as it resulted in some of the best pictures taken on the day. I also have to thank the windy conditions for these, which gave me great ‘flicked out’ hair. Nick timed the photos so perfectly that people who weren’t at the wedding ask if we had used a wind machine!! No, just good old Glasgow weather!

One of my favourite parts of a wedding is the speeches and I’m pleased to say that Andy, my Dad and Gareth, Andy’s Best Man, all did stellar jobs. It wasn’t, however, my Dad’s or the Best Man’s speech that made me – and Andy - blush the most; no it was the Master of Ceremonies speech, provided by our Minister [!], that did it. Nick could obviously sense our horror and got some priceless shots of us (jaws almost on the floor etc) so we’ll definitely never forget ‘that’ moment!

Our wedding band aptly named Cut the Cake were brilliant! They are great musicians and their set on the night was fantastic - which catered to all tastes and included a few Ceilidh numbers – and kept the dance floor packed. They even had friends and family who don’t ‘do’ dancing on the floor! We did our first dance to the band’s own version of Al Green’s Let’s Stay Together, which they did brilliantly; I can’t say the same for our dancing!

I have to say that wearing my wedding dress was a real highlight of the wedding day. I loved swishing around in it, far more than I ever thought I would. It was particularly surreal walking along Great Western Road – a street in which I’d normally be wearing jeans and boots – in such a beautiful dress. I also really loved my bouquet, by Grace Flowers on Byres Road, which was simply beautiful. 

I knew before the wedding that the wedding photography would be a vital part of the wedding, but going through the experience of the day really confirms it. Getting married is completely fabulous, but so much is going on and there are so many people to speak to that it’s difficult to remember the finer details. Nick’s story book photos were brilliant, jogging my memory of things I had forgotten and also providing a story of parts of the wedding I wasn’t there to experience - such as Andy greeting our guests and waiting for me to arrive at the Chapel. Andy and I were blown away when we first saw the wedding photos (three days after the wedding!) and still are. 

 Thank you Nick!

Diary of a Bride - Glasgow University Chapel and House For An Art Lover

I recently asked a few of the couples I photographed this summer if they would write a piece for my blog about their wedding day. I wanted it to be in their own words as if writing a diary entry not just about me their photographer but the build up to the day and the day itself.

This week were are at Glasgow University Chapel and House For An Art Lover with Roddy & Niove who were married in September 2011, over to you...

“For me, the wedding ‘day’ really started the night before! We had arranged a get together of friends and family the night before at Cottiers on Hyndland Street and this is where the excitement really started building for me. There were a number of people there who I hadn’t see for many years and having all of these friends in one place gave Niove and I a great feeling for the celebration lying ahead.

After a moderately early night and waving goodbye to my future wife for a few hours, the wedding day thankfully dawned bright and sunny. The best man and I were up early and diverted our thoughts via breakfast and an hour at the gym. I hear that preparations weren’t so relaxed across at the Indigo Hotel but the hotel was apparently very good and a good base for a number of family guests from Greece.

We had decided to get married at Glasgow University Chapel, partly for family reasons and also because we are both graduates of the University and felt that the atmosphere and feel of the Chapel would give our day the special feel that we wanted. It is a beautiful building both inside and out and I have to say that it was a very special feeling waiting for Niove at the head of the aisle. Now, I’m not a football supporter but it turns out that the University chaplain, Rev. Stuart Macquarrie is, so the best man and I were receiving regular, excited reports on Rangers’ progress in the first Old Firm fixture of the season. Rev Macquarrie was fun to deal with throughout the wedding preparations and on the day itself he made sure that we were as relaxed as possible with some well timed jokes and stories.

Neither Niove or I are particularly keen on being the centre of attention but walking down the aisle together was one of the most memorable moments of the day – I think we both felt very proud just at that moment, and also a little bit of relief that the service passed without any hitches. The only potential hitch then arose immediately afterwards when Nearly fell down the steps of the Chapel after catching a heel on her wedding dress. Thankfully she held on to me and most people were still in the Chapel so any damage was limited to the absence of a perfect “walking down the steps” photo!

After Nick took some great group photos in the University cloisters we made our way to House for An Art Lover for the reception. We’d arranged cars and a coach for our guests via Doigs and I’d highly recommend them – new cars and the surprise of a trip home after the reception in a beautiful Bentley Continental. House For An Art Lover, in our view, is a great venue for a wedding of the size we had – circa 90 guests in total including 15 / 20 evening guests. We’d heard good reports of the venue and the food and neither disappointed. The reception was well managed, the rooms looked perfect and the food was excellent.

We’d agreed with Nick that he would mingle during the reception and then take some more formal shots at sunset following dinner. The shots that he took of us in front of the House are some of our favourites of the day and really reflect the beauty of the location very well.

For me, dinner was very special. I had recently lost both my Mother and Father so I knew that my speech would be a hard moment but I think everyone was particularly taken with Niove’s Father’s speech. He is not a fluent English speaker but gave a speech of great clarity, passion and emotion directed at his daughter and at me. Everyone was very moved by his speech, but particularly the best man and I because we then had the near-impossible task of following on from him...

Rather than being formal, the evening reception was pure fun – catching up with friends, speaking to others who we hadn’t had the chance to chat with during the day. We had hired a band, “Hitched”, who could perform both pop and ceilidh numbers and they kept the evening very flexible adjusting the tone of each tune as needed to keep the dancefloor busy and everyone involved. This was key to the type of evening Niove and I had wanted and I have to say that we were particularly impressed with the way in which they dealt with our impromptu requests and kept everyone dancing.

The one piece of advice I have regarding the whole day is do not underestimate how quickly it passes. It is one of the most special days of your life and you must make sure that you take time to soak in the atmosphere and the fact that all of these friends and family members have gathered to celebrate your big day – it is a bit of a cliché but make the most of it and enjoy every second.

Thanks to everyone who helped us out and especially to Nick for the great photos which will help us to remember the wonderful day we had.”

Diary of a Bride - Lunga House

I recently asked a few of the couples I photographed this summer if they would write a piece for my blog about their wedding day. I wanted it to be in their own words as if writing a diary entry not just about me their photographer but the build up to the day and the day itself.

This week were are at Lunga House in Argyll with Maggie & Ollie who were married in October 2011, over to you...

"The man who says that his wife can't take a joke, forgets that she married him." Oscar Wilde

After the long drive up to the house, and up the bumpy track we arrived. The lights were on, and the door open, but the house empty. It is hard to describe the excitement and simultaneous nervousness opening the door. The nervousness disappeared within seconds; the excitement continued as we went in and started exploring. Lunga House was incredible.

The truth is we live in Singapore, and whilst we used to live in Edinburgh, and Maggie is Scottish, and we had sea kayaked in the area, we had actually never clapped eyes on the place until three days before the wedding. Madness? Maybe. Foolhardy? Most brides would argue yes. A leap of faith? Most certainly. You see, we had never made it back in time to see the place, for a variety of reasons, some better than others. We were however quietly confident that we had picked just the right place for us. We were right.

Living in Singapore and organising a wedding 6,000 miles away is do-able, you just need to adjust your outlook, and approach. Our wedding planning was one in which the age of technology came into it's own, a heady world of time differences, skype, emails, expensive phone bills and internet research. We set up a website on which we could keep people updated, and let them request songs for later on after the ceilidh. We were able to co-ordinate most, but not all, from Singapore. However, regardless of how much time and effort you plan ahead there will always be an almost unseemly scramble at the end, as many different parts gets drawn together, all funneling together for the Big Day. Although even more so when some of things you want to see or get can only be done a few days before the wedding. Thankfully were relatively relaxed about the whole thing. By the time the Big Day came, we were happy, exhausted but buoyed up by arriving friends and family. We were also in need of a drink. A large one.

Lunga House was frankly the best venue we could have had, without a doubt. We didn't want new and polished, we wanted character, uniqueness and somewhere to welcome friends and family for more than one day. We had the run of the house, cottages on the estate, and rooms at the pub for people to stay. There were some hardy campers, and some who had found nearby B&Bs. At Lunga the staff were incredible, the attention to detail superb, and the setting spectacular – Meg, Les and the team, thank you again. After all this was more than a wedding, this was a chance to catch up with family and old cronies. We stayed five nights with most people being around for two nights, and we were lucky enough to welcome people from Australia, Africa, Europe, and the Caribbean to Lunga.

The day itself was clear destiny. It hadn’t escaped our attention that the morning of the wedding was England vs. Scotland in the Rugby World Cup, with passionate supporters on both sides attending. Screening of course at the house and at 0830hrs drew a lively crowd. Given that the Future Mrs. Warner was Scottish, and Mr. Warner is English, there was clearly always going to be a lot riding on this. Would it set the future tone for the marriage? Given the score, Mr. Warner hoped so, but quietly knows Mrs. Warner won’t concede to that.

Then it was full speed ahead for ceremony preparation. Maggie retired with champagne and her ladies. Mr Warner and the Best Man Harry dilly dallied a bit, and then got on with the serious business of ironing and a couple of snifters. Before long the piper was out on the lawn, playing, and it was time.

Given the time of year we were left wondering whether the weather would be kind enough to let us get married outside, our first preference. Frankly though even if it hadn't have been we would have probably made everyone lean into the wind to watch us saying our vows. We walked onto the lawn, past family and friends, the piper leading the way, to under the Yew tree where a table had been set out, along with his and hers Lunga tweed covered chairs. An old chaplain colleague of Maggie's married us, with some wonderful readings, and a harp player under the tree. The ceremony was very personal, funny and touching – Ewan you did a cracking job. After the vows a minor drama arose as everyone looked attach other asking where the register was. Alas, still in the house. The Best Man was dispatched to high tail it back up on foot, locate, and bring back like a whippet. Bride and Groom smiling, posing for shots with most people none the wiser. Then the piper led us back up to the house for champagne and mojitos.

We of course wanted some unusual wedding touches. We had custom designed tea towels made to give as wedding favors, playing on the Royal Wedding earlier in the year. We wanted a minimal numbers of flowers to go to waste, so all the flower arrangements on tables were in terra-cotta pots, for people to take-away. The bouquets were to look “just plucked”. The meal was vegetarian (we heard later this was a cause of some consternation in the village, allied with that we were from Singapore - we still giggle at that). The wine was all Scottish fruit wine. The meal was absolutely sublime (Carol thanks again).

With the sun setting Nick discreetly pulled us out of the fray to head down to the pier to get some sunset shots, overlooking nearby islands. These are some of our favourite shots. It was a tense few minutes trip down with poor Nick’s car taking a hammering down the bumpy track to the pier to make it in time before the sun disappeared.

Neither of us are wildly fond of fruitcake or wading through icing, so our wedding cake was tiers of west country cheeses. We managed to find in Portugal some vintage port, from the year we were born, and get that ready to serve with the “cake”. Cutting was with a polished cutlass from a wall. 

There was a little bit more in terms of background drama in the run-up. It is no secret that we both dearly love our travel. However, it came as something of a surprise that our rings did too. We had them made in London (by an ethical jeweler), and then had them shipped to Singapore. The drama came, when the tracking system wasn't updating their location, they hadn’t arrived in Singapore, and were shortly to be headed back to Blighty. To cut a longer story short, they arrived in Singapore after we had left. They were then sent back to the UK, and we watched with bemusement as we charted their progress back. From Singapore, to China, to Kazakhstan, to France, to London and then to Scotland. Arriving less than 24hrs before the wedding. Phew.

The first dance was strip the willow, all involving. The band played brilliantly, and then with a break for stovies (adorned with left-over “cake”) we carried on. After the band had finished DJ iPod had flown in all the way from Singapore, and stepped into the breach, with our favorite songs, and requests (filtered) from guests on a pre-sorted playlist. This was a crowd-pleaser to keep things going. The party went on well into the small hours.

We think we proved that you can have an immensely special day, with some spontaneity, after all the friends and family there are gathered with the expressed purpose of wishing you well, and want the whole thing to be a success. A key thing that did make life easier was having it all at one location – Lunga – and guests enjoyed this as well. In short, it was an immense gathering of friends and family. Moving and hilarious in all the right parts. 

Nick was the ultimate in invisibility, seamlessly gliding around. We are mystified as to how he managed to move so quickly to get the different shots, and enormously pleased with what he delivered.

 Thank you Nick.

Diary of a Bride - Mar Hall Hotel and Resort

I recently asked a few of the couples I photographed this summer if they would write a piece for my blog about their wedding day. I wanted it to be in their own words as if writing a diary entry not just about me their photographer but the build up to the day and the day itself.

This week were are at Mar Hall Hotel and Resort near Glasgow with Lucy & Martin.... over to you.

Lucy & Martin Summer 2011

Martin and I got married at Mar Hall, near Glasgow on 4rd June 2011. We live in Lancashire, England, but thanks to a last minute deal on late.rooms.com, found ourselves at Mar Hall on New Years Day 2010. After some gentle encouragement, a few single malts and a collection of romantic piano tunes from Alex Graham, Martin proposed. We knew straight away that Mar Hall would make a perfect place for our wedding, but it took a little longer to persuade our families that it was a good idea to arrange a wedding two hundred miles from home.

The next 18 months flew by. We found our wedding contacts on the internet, and were hooked as soon as we saw Nick’s website and photographs. We combined camping trips in the Highlands with stop overs in Glasgow to meet with people and plan the day. Only the invitations were from an English supplier, a very talented woman called Katharine Swift at Papermonkeys, who painted miniature watercolours of things we love, including a picture of Mar Hall so that our guests would have a flavour of the day.

Friday the 3rd of June was a beautiful sunny day. Martin and I were awake early, partly with the realisation that we had left the honeymoon money at home! However an early morning stroll along the river, hearty Scottish breakfast, and phone call to a lock smith soon restored harmony, and we spent the day welcoming our 150 guests from various parts of the country, most of whom were staying at Mar Hall. 

The cake arrived in the afternoon, from Top Tier on Hyndland Road. The characters on the top were a little more tanned than expected, but we had to see the funny side when my Mum phoned the shop to explain that we were from Manchester and “really quite pasty” in appearance. We decided against last minute spray tans, and said our final goodbyes before joining our respective families for dinner.

Finally, the wedding day... Martin was up early, this time writing his speech, before joining the boys for a game of football, and swim in Loch Lomond. The girls had a far more sedate morning with champagne and cup cakes, whilst Adam and Jon from Toni and Guy in Manchester worked hair miracles, and Ann Aitkin, a make-up artist from Glasgow, made us all look beautiful. Nick arrived around lunchtime, unassuming as ever, telling us to ignore him, whilst he started snapping.

It felt like a long walk down the great hall of Mar Hall, but the friendly faces of the staff, and Gerry Douglas-Scott, our Humanist Celebrant, calmed any last minute nerves. As the first bars of ‘Lucy in the Sky with Diamonds’, played by Alex, our engagement night pianist, drifted out of the ceremony room, I took a deep breath and squeezed my dad’s hand. The room was packed with smiling family and friends. Martin was standing at the front with Gerry, between two spectacular flower arrangements provided by Mood Flowers, and looking relieved that I wasn’t wearing a red meringue. 

After the ceremony we enjoyed champagne and canopies in the gardens whilst getting together for a few group shots. The wedding breakfast was held in a marquee in the gardens, decorated by Sheila Samuels’s Team at 88 Events, and Mood Flowers. We opted to have the speeches before the meal, so that we could enjoy the wonderful food, chat to guests and enjoy Alex’s tunes. Postprandially, whilst our guests relaxed, Nick took Martin and I, less camera shy after a few drinks, for walk around the grounds, to capture some couple shots. My brother, Alex, helped out by holding the large flash, and one of our favourite pictures, is of us laughing at him singing Wham’s ‘Jitter Bug’. 

We partied at the disco provided by 88 Events, chilled out with our guests in the bar, and finally made it to the honeymoon suite in the early hours. We couldn’t have asked for a better day. The following morning we enjoyed breakfast with our guests who had stayed at Mar Hall, before leaving for our honeymoon in Nambia. It was a nice surprise to see Nick and Alex back for another wedding the next day, and Alex brought a tear to my eye as he played ‘Lucy in the Sky with Diamonds’ as we left.

We were very grateful to everybody who participated in our wedding, but six months later the thing we most treasure is our photo album. Martin and I are quite shy and didn’t think we would be able to relax with a videographer. People told us we would miss out, but Nick’s photographs and album are a completely perfect record of our day, and our friends and family agree.

Thank you Nick, you’re a genius! 

Diary of a Bride - Oran Mor, Glasgow

I recently asked a few of the couples I photographed this summer if they would write a piece for my blog about their wedding day. I wanted it to be in their own words as if writing a diary entry not just about me their photographer but the build up to the day and the day itself.

This week were are at Oran Mor in Glasgow with Emma and Andrew.... over to you.

We were married on the 29th of July in 2011, and the sun was shining (thank goodness!). The day was amazing in every way and we can honestly say we enjoyed every single second of it. This was very much thanks to the careful planning done in the run up to the big day, and I am very glad that we spent so much time pouring over all the details – it is worth it in the end! We are looking forward to reflecting on our wedding and all the moments that made it so special. 

Preparation 

Andy: 

Waking up to the smell of bacon rolls was an excellent start to the day. After breakfast with my ushers and best men we all got into our kilts which had been set out with individual labels and tags by my parents. The sun was splitting the sky as we posed for pictures in the garden, we could not have asked for better weather. We all jumped into my usher Gordon’s very glamorous boy racer car and headed to the church. Our ceremony was held in Emma’s hometown at Lenzie Union Parish Church. It was very important to us to have a traditional wedding ceremony and this church was perfect. On arrival, however it was still locked up and no one was around! After about 15 minutes of sweating and worrying the care taker arrived, all was well, we were pleased to discover that the flowers had arrived earlier that morning as had the band to set things up. All we needed now was guests and a Bride.

Emma: 

After a very long night of restless sleep I was so glad to be sitting down in the hairdressers at 9am finally beginning the long ‘getting ready’ process! With me were my Mum, sister Lisa and my cousin Jennifer who were my gorgeous bridesmaids, along with Jennifer’s Mum, my Auntie Joyce. We took over the whole salon and spent a good two hours getting glammed up. I have to mention everyone at the salon Stephen John in Kirkintilloch who did an incredible job on the hair, I have to admit, I was nervous that a bridal hairstyle wouldn’t suit me, but I was so happy with the natural curls that were created! 

Eventually we arrived back at the house and were welcomed by my Dad (who had prepared an entire buffet lunch – he had clearly been trying to keep himself busy!) my Auntie Anne who was sipping champagne, and Nick who was very discreetly taking photos as all the girls and I took residence at every mirror in the house. Here, I saw a glimpse of the flowers for the first time, Ruby Flowers in Hyndland provided them and I loved what they had created. The arrangements were very natural and simple with white, green and pale pink. 

After doing our own make-up bought from Urban Decay and Benefit (I would highly recommend this!) it was time to get into dresses! My sister’s friend Rachel from Sarah Louise Bridal in Glasgow where we selected the amethyst coloured bridesmaids dresses kindly came to help us all get tied into our gowns – something that when done by a novice can literally take hours! My dress was made by Essence Australia and it was only the second dress I tried on. I knew that it was the dress for me then and it didn’t disappoint on the day! I wore it with a cathedral length veil and simple pearl and diamante headband. The accessory that meant the most to me, though, was my Granny’s wedding band, which I wore on my right hand. I can genuinely say that I was completely relaxed through the whole experience of getting ready to leave for the church, the cars from St Clair Wedding Cars in Hamilton were fabulous and I kept my cool for the whole (five minute journey) with my Dad. It wasn’t until we pulled up outside the church where there was a small crowd gathered to watch that the nerves finally began to kick in! 

The Ceremony 

Andy:

After checking that all the preparations at the church were completed my best men David and Graeme and my Ushers Robbie and Gordon and I waited outside the church enjoying the weather and mingling with the guests as they started to arrive. It was nice to greet family and friends some whom I had not seen for a while. The time seemed to fly past and before we I knew it the bridesmaids had arrived. My Best men and I made a quick dash towards the vestry of the church. 

A knock at the vestry door told David, Graeme, William (who conducted the service) and myself that the Bride had arrived. We made our way to the front of the Church to await the arrival of Emma and her dad. Nerves at this point had left me. At my brothers wedding a year before as best man I was a nervous wreak but today I was calm and composed. The piper started up and I saw Emma for the first time. Words cannot describe the moment I saw her. She looked stunning. I had no idea what to expect from the dress but it was spectacular. Emma made her way to the front of the church and her father lifted her veil and kissed her on the cheek. I took Emma’s hand and we made our way up the steps towards the alter. William began the ceremony.

Emma:

Although so much time is spent planning the entire wedding day from the transport, to the meal, to the party at the end, the most important part has to be the moment when the vows are said and you finally become husband and wife. I was completely calm until I reached the church, and I can’t explain how nervous I was when I heard our good friend Willie Hutchinson who was leading the ceremony, announce my arrival and ask the congregation to stand – it was somewhere between crying, laughing, and panicking. This was also the only time in my 23 years on earth that I have ever seen my Dad look nervous! When our great piper, Donald MacKenzie started playing Highland Cathedral and we began walking down the aisle it was the most wonderful thing. It was such a lovely feeling to see the smiling faces of all of our friends and family looking at us, and I would have been crying with all the emotion had it not been for the giant grin I couldn’t seem to wipe off my face! It was so exciting seeing Andy standing at the Altar with his best men Graeme and David – he looked as happy as I felt and I just knew it was going to be a perfect day. 

The hymns ‘Amazing Grace’, ‘How Great Thou Art’ and ‘The Lord’s my Shepherd’ were performed on acoustic guitars by my school band mates Callum and Stephen which added such a special vibe to the songs, and my Auntie Anne read from Colossians 3:12-15. Willie led prayers and performed the sermon, and it fitted us wonderfully. It was very important to Andy and I to have a Christian wedding, which represented our faith and the service really put this across. The ceremony flew in and we were suddenly heading through to sign the register. I was relieved to sit down as having broken my pinky toe a few weeks earlier, standing in 4 inch heels was proving quite difficult! 

We walked back up the aisle as husband and wife to the live bagpipes once again and it was so special to see all of our favourite people in the same place as everyone came out the stand in the glorious sunshine with us. The time spent here chatting to people and seeing old friends was one of the highlights of the day for me, and was where some of my favourite photographs were captured. Soon enough we were whisked into the wedding cars (where my absolute favourite wedding picture was taken of Andy and I!) and headed off in convoy to the West End of Glasgow – the bus full of guests provided by Parks of Hamilton not far behind! 

The Reception 

Emma:

Next stop was the botanic gardens in Glasgow, just across the road from our venue Oran Mor for our group photographs. Once again I can’t profess enough how thankful we were that the sun was shining and the weather was warm. Many of our guests came across to watch and I loved the atmosphere of being in this surreal wedding situation in amongst the hustle and bustle of the busy Glasgow West End on a summer’s day! Being so close to our venue across the road also meant we could hear the bagpipe music greeting our guests in the distance, which really added to the whole experience! Nick had asked us to organize a small number of group shots in preparation for the photographs and this really helped us get all finished in record time, with a fabulous end result. Everyone seemed so relaxed and it wasn’t a stressful time as I have heard other brides admit; the only irritating aspect was that the breeze kept blowing my massive veil into my face; as soon as the photos were taken I had my Mum take it out – what a relief!

After the photographs, we all sauntered across to Oran Mor to be greeted by the very friendly and helpful staff who made sure we had everything we needed before we entered. I hadn’t actually seen the reception space since we’d viewed it back in September 2010 and it took my breath away. If you have never been to the Oran Mor I’d recommend a visit – it is a beautiful hall with the most fabulous décor and high ceiling with a stunning mural. It was colourful and unusual with loads of character – as an art school graduate it was ideal for me! Andy works for his own DJing company: Shine Discos, with his best man Graeme, and having DJ’d at hundreds of weddings he’s seen it all, this meant it was really important for him to have a stand out venue, and as my art college buddy Nairn commented to us afterwards, it’s impossible to imagine a more stunningly different venue, in addition to this the staff are excellent and the day was so well organised – big thanks to wedding planner Louise and her colleagues! 

On arrival, the main hall looked even fabulous than usual decked out in all of the things we had chosen for the tables. Tall, blue, cream, pink and green flower arrangements again provided by Ruby Flowers, words actually can’t describe how much I adored the flowers. Table settings and menus were designed by Lovat Press (they created our entire wedding stationary, as a Graphic Designer by trade I was super impressed by the simple, elegant yet modern designs. I would have loved to make the stationary myself but I was bound by time constraints because I was also completing my postgraduate degree in secondary teaching the year of the wedding!) The table plan was designed and illustrated by myself, which added a personal touch and satisfied my inner designer! I also illustrated our song themed table names with the lyrics and framed them for each table. Our favours were a donation to Cancer Research in memory of my Granny and each guest received a badge and a small card telling them about this. Also on the tables were gifts for the bridesmaids (tiara charms from Links of London), best men, Ushers and Callum and Stephen who played in the church (personally engraved glasses). 

We split the speeches up with the groom and best men before dinner and the Dads afterward, during tea and coffee. This really worked as it saved us time but also meant that the guests weren’t sitting through four speeches whilst desperate for their dinner! The speeches were great, and not too embarrassing (Andy might disagree with this…) 

Although I couldn’t eat much of it due to dress constraints the food was truly delicious. My sister still talks about the duck starter to this day and everyone I’ve spoken to says it was a great meal. Andy and I were lucky enough to have time between courses to work our way around the tables for a chat with everyone, something I’d really recommend as the day goes so quickly and time spent with individual guests is limited. I loved the moment when I got round to the table where all of my friends from Dundee Uni were sitting and was presented with a bright yellow T-Shirt stating ‘Dundee saved my life!’ 

Between the meal and the evening reception there was the opportunity to mingle and chat with guests as well as those arriving for the party. During this time our guests were also able to head up to the balcony to record a video diary for us! Before this, Nick whisked Andy and I along with the best men back to the Botanics for some relaxed, romantic photographs, this was such a great idea and gave us a welcome chance to catch our breath before the madness continued! 

Back in the Oran Mor, we cut the cake (I felt like a celebrity with all of the cameras going off!) Our cake was from Special Days in Bothwell and was called ‘Glitter Thistle’. It was a beautiful cake and although I didn’t actually get a chance to sample it (it was scoffed in a matter of minutes at the buffet so it must have been good!) it was apparently delicious! 

The band we chose for the party at night are called Bahookie, and they are a ceilidh band with a rocky twist! My school drum teacher Scott Arnott was on the drums and the entire band are exceptionally talented. Scott introduced Andy and I to the floor and we danced to ‘Ten Storey Love Song’ by the Stone Roses as all of our guests looked on from around us. After this the party got into full swing and the dance floor was always packed – a true sign of a great band! There was a break for the buffet: bacon and egg rolls with wedding cake – exactly what everyone was in the mood for, and then the band provided us with a disco. For months after the wedding I thought they had miraculously known and played all of my favourite songs (Girls Aloud included) but then I found out just the other week that in actual fact my friends had been requesting them! I loved all the dancing and I really enjoyed the whole party and doubt that I left the floor all night (a member of the band told me this was unusual for a bride!) The second half of the ceilidh was as successful as the first and the night ended with the whole wedding singing and dancing to Loch Lomond – perfect. 

Andy:

We arrived at the Botanic Gardens with the sun still shining. It was great to catch a few moments of alone time with Emma in the car. The ceremony had gone so well, it was a strange but great feeling to now have a wife. The Botanic Gardens were packed with people enjoying the sunshine. After the pictures were taken we made our way across to the Oran Mor. This was a memorable moment as Emma and I stopped the traffic and walked across the junction of Byers road and Dumbarton road. Some guests had assembled outside the Oran Mor and cheered as we arrived. The Oran Mor is a spectacular venue. The character and atmosphere created was just what Emma and I wanted, getting away from the classic function hall style of venue. 

My Best men and I did our speeches before the meal so we could relax more with the fathers doing theirs after. After a short introduction by Colin (Emma’s dad) I gave my speech. Public speaking is a part of my job so I was looking forward to this part of the day. I opened with “on behalf of my wife and I”, after the expected cheering died down I gave my speech and sat down wondering what level of embarrassment I would feel after the next speech. David and Graeme did a joint speech, it was an interesting take on some memorable moments, the less said the better! The meal was outstanding and the feedback from guests mirrors this with only excellent comments about the high standard of service from the staff at Oran Mor. The father’s speeches were funny with my both fathers recalling their first impressions of meeting myself and Emma. Both Emma and myself feel very blessed to have such supportive and loving parents.

With the band sound checked Emma and I stepped onto the dance floor for our first dance to the sound of ‘10 storey love song’ by the Stone Roses, a song we had grown to love over time together. My attention was completely focused on beautiful girl in front of me who had become my wife only a few hours earlier. As we danced that first dance I remember thinking how thankful I was that such an amazing girl had agreed to spend the rest of her life with me. 

The wedding was truly was an incredible day. Every aspect was perfectly suited to the style and taste we wanted.

Emma:

After the final dance Andy and I were whisked off in the patiently waiting car back to Blythswood Square where we spent the night. We had breakfast with the family in the morning and then headed off to a relaxing honeymoon in Iceland for ten days. My parents called halfway through the holiday to let us know the pictures were online, and I’ll never forget Andy and I peering at the tiny screen on our phones in the hotel lounge trying to take them all in, and what a marvellous selection for us to see! They really captured the day in the exact style I was hoping for. Thank you to Nick and all the others who helped make our wedding perfect in every way. (Especially Mum and Dad who took the roles of head wedding planners – I’ll be forever in your dept!)

Winter Wedding Possibilities

I asked Louise the (award winning) wedding co-ordinator at Oran Mor in Glasgow's West End (one of favourite venues) to write a guest blog for me. Any subject she wanted to talk about I said, I guess she must be a fan of Christmas as she sent me a piece on winter weddings and the possibilities it brings to make your day even more special. I have to agree with her, winter is a great time to get married, shorter days and changing light can create much more emotional and cool photographs...

Anyway, over to Louise...

Walking in a Winter Wonderland….

What a lovely time of year for a wedding! Summer weddings remain popular with couples hoping for a warm sunny day but increasing numbers are opting for a sparkling winter wedding. Mulled wine and warm mince pies, the cosy glow of candles and atmospheric photography can seem very tempting but there are lots of factors to consider when looking for a Christmas venue.

Accessibility is key. Recent winters have thrown up some pretty inclement weather and city centre venues have been favoured by couples who want to ensure that the maximum number of guests will be able to battle their way through blizzards to the ceremony. Good transport links and a bit of research into the effects of public holidays on buses, trains, taxis and hotel availability are a must. Many couples have cited the fact that their family will be in town for the Christmas period as a deciding factor in their choice of date, which makes perfect sense.

Have you thought about your suppliers? Bands and DJs tend to be busy with Christmas party bookings throughout the first few weeks of December and may decide to take a break before Hogmanay, so get in early if you decide on a date between Christmas and New Year, or something at the beginning of January. Decorating companies, florists, cake suppliers and car companies are generally happy to work over the Christmas period but again, it’s worth making enquiries early if you’re very keen on a particular company.

Creating a festive atmosphere. The decorating opportunities are endless at Christmas time! Enquire with your venue about the Christmas decorations which are already included in the function room and find out what the predominant colour theme is – do they favour silver or gold, or bright reds and greens? We’re lucky at Òran Mór to have a brightly decorated room with a beautiful big real Christmas tree, which our brides just love, but you may find that some function rooms are not decked out for Christmas as standard.

Eat, drink and be merry! Most venues will be more than happy to arrange a special Christmas menu for your wedding meal. How about mulled wine on arrival with mini mince pies, breast of chicken stuffed with cranberry and chestnut and maybe even a big serving of Christmas pudding with brandy butter for dessert? Indulge your fondest memories of family Christmas dinners and you’ll be guaranteed smiling faces! There can never be too many roast potatoes…

I’ve worked with some lovely clients over the years who genuinely love Christmas and wanted to make their wedding day a true homage to all things festive. A little snobbery undoubtedly prevails when it comes to making marriage celebrations as individual as possible but it would surely be impossible not to feel a warm glow when you pull a luxury Christmas cracker with the guest sitting next to you. Send your guests home with personalised Christmas baubles to hang on their trees and they’ll bring them out year after year. If you can overcome the logistical difficulties, I say bring on the Christmas nuptials!

Merry Christmas!

Louise Turner

Wedding Coordinator
Òran Mór
731-735 Great Western Road
Glasgow
G12 8QX
0141 357 6219
louise@oran-mor.co.uk

Diary of a Bride - Lochside House Hotel

I recently asked a few of the couples I photographed this summer if they would write a piece for my blog about their wedding day. I wanted it to be in their own words as if writing a diary entry not just about me their photographer but the build up to the day and the day itself.

This week were are at Lochside House Hotel with Bethany & James.... over to Bethany.

We were married at Lochside House Hotel in New Cumnock on the 9th July 2011 and were thrilled to have Nick join us to photograph our day. 

The best thing about our wedding and the planning for it was that it was all in the one place. Lochside House Hotel is set in beautiful grounds in the ayrshire countryside and was the perfect backdrop for our day. It is very private yet accessible and in easy reach of motorways and airports. The hotel also has plenty of accommodation for family and friends so this made it a great option for us with both our families traveling from all corners of the country. 

Lochside offers a beautiful room for the ceremony with a floor to ceiling window that looks out onto the afton hills and loch providing a stunning backdrop. The reception room was the perfect size with the bar in the room which kept everyone mingling together and ensuring a great atmosphere. It also has French doors that opened up onto the hotels grounds enabling kids to run around and others to enjoy the beautiful views. Perfect for our summer wedding!

We can't praise the staff at Lochside enough. It was so relaxed and the day was totally seamless. From getting ready in the morning right through to the next day. Lynsey and the staff at Lochside did a fantastic job of ensuring that it flowed without any hitches and that everything was on time. 

We're lucky to have many friends who are excellent musicians who helped to provide all the entertainment for the day. Our fabulous string quartet played for the ceremony and drinks reception and were led by violinist claire mctaggart. Chris Waite was our piper would did a fantastic job of welcoming our guests and playing the wedding party in for the evening reception meal. 

We wanted to make sure the evening entertainment catered for all ages and abilities and got everyone involved so we opted for a ceilidh and disco, finishing the night of with everyone on the floor for an orcadian strip the willow, unforgettable! It was also a great way to get everyone together at the end of the night. The ceilidh band were fantastic and were led by Stuart Cameron. So good in fact they have since been booked by friends for their wedding! 

Local company Cover the Big Day provided beautiful chair covers and table centre pieces and our beautiful flowers were provided by Ann at Hollowpark florists in Ayr. 

We wanted to have place names and favours that were a little different, something you'd want to treasure and without spending a lot money. For the place names we collected and washed pebbles which provided excellent place names that were pretty too! For the ladies favours we spent a few months before the wedding collecting teacups from charity shops, decorated them with a pretty napkin and filled them with fair trade toffee. These were fun to make prior to the wedding and got family involved in wedding preparations of an afternoon! 

We were delighted Nick was able to photograph our wedding. The reason we chose nick was that we felt that as well as the staged shots, we wanted our photographs to capture the feel and ambience of the day. His photographs are really special and unique and offer something a little different.

Thanks a million Nick!