Nick & Lauren’s Elopement Wedding Edinburgh
Take a look at that picture above. That, right there folks, is the faces of two people who have just eloped in Edinburgh. Look at the joy, the elation, the champagne!
I sound like the Edinburgh Tourist Board don’t I?! But I warn you now, I am going to bang on about the ace-ness of elopements throughout this blog. I love my city, I love weddings and when the two combine well, something magical happens.
Cheval The Edinburgh Grand Elopement
Housed in the old National Bank of Scotland building, a historic landmark building in Edinburgh’s city centre, Cheval The Edinburgh Grand was a fitting location for Nick and Lauren’s elopement. They wanted classy, historical and a touch of luxury. They certainly got all that!
Nick and Lauren had flown over from Atlanta to get married here in Edinburgh. They got legally married at their local courthouse (how cool does that sound to us non-Americans?!) but chose to have their ‘official’ ceremony in Scotland. Neither of them are fans of the spotlight and did not want to be the centre of attention so a big old wedding wasn’t on the cards. As we wandered around the city they told me they were super glad they’d opted to elope.
They’d hired out a suite in the Cheval and wanted to hold their ceremony there. I shifted some furniture around (all part of the service!) and we made enough space in front of the rather epic fireplace for them to say their vows.
Elopement Wedding Edinburgh
That morning they got ready in separate bedrooms within the suite (it was an AMAZING suite!) I loved being able to flit back and forth between the two of them and share in all the emotions and the build up. There were a few tears when Lauren opened a gift from Nick’s mum which included a note that started “To my son’s bride…” So thoughtful and such a touching moment.
Lauren looked incredible and Nick looked dapper in his black tie. He was swithering about his shoes, trying to decide between his formal loafers or trainers. Go for the Adidas everytime! Luckily he took my advice because he looked so cool.
They wanted to do a first look so I got Nick to wait in the lounge area, while Lauren walked up behind him and tapped his shoulder. Ahhh man! The tears! It was such a cute moment to capture.
After their vows and ring exchange we headed out for some pictures. We had to stop off in the hotel lobby first for a few photographs. This building is ace, the design is incredible and Lauren and Nick looked like film stars!
Scottish Elopements and Humanist Ceremonies
As we explored the streets of Edinburgh Nick and Lauren were greeted with whoops and hollers from passersby. They loved it! There’s always a great welcome in Scotland, especially if you’re all dressed up in a bridal dress and black tie!
We got some fab portraits, lots of photos in front of the castle (it’s not an Edinburgh elopement without some photos with that big old castle in the background!), some urban adventuring and then had a walk around the gardens. We finished off with cocktails back at the Grand. Amazing!
So, has this convinced you that Edinburgh is the best city in the world to elope in? It’s a beautiful city, packed full of history. You can get married anywhere (that’s the beauty of a Humanist celebration in Scotland) in front of a gorgeous fireplace, on the beach, in your new favourite pub… Even if you have to do the legal paperwork in your home country you can still fly over to Scotland to do the romantic bit and then have a kick-ass photoshoot with me! I can’t think of a better way to celebrate your love!
Sarah x
Creative Team
Venue: Cheval The Grand Edinburgh
Hair & Makeup: The Madeup Team
Wedding Planner: Coorie
Celebrant: Kathryn Ross
Are you having an elopement wedding Edinburgh? Get in touch to book a consultation and find out how we, as an alternative wedding photographer, can capture your wedding day amazingness!