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Sherbrooke Castle | A Photographer’s Perspective
The classic Glasgow red sandstone and pretty gardens of Sherbrooke Castle were the perfect backdrop for Rebecca and Zac's elopement.
A Scottish baronial-style castle in Glasgow, Sherbrooke Castle offers a mix of history, grandeur, and cosy charm.
I recently photographed Rebecca & Zac’s beautiful elopement at Sherbrooke Castle, and if you’re considering it for your wedding, here’s some helpful tips for your planning.
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A Wedding Day at Sherbrooke Castle
Sherbrooke Castle has that classic Glasgow red sandstone, the kind that glows warm in the evening light or brightens up a driech day – which is more typical in Scotland!. Perched up on a hill above pretty gardens, it’s the kind of place that feels grand but not too grand, luxurious but not too stuffy.
And when Rebecca and Zac decided to elope to Scotland, bringing just their closest family, Sherbrooke Castle became the perfect spot for their intimate, love-filled day.
The ceremony was held in Sherbrooke’s conservatory, which, if you’re familiar with Scottish weather, is an absolute blessing. Loads of natural light, completely sheltered from the elements, and a really lovely, intimate space. The couple worked with the incredible Linda Keys from Agnostic Scotland, setting up their guests in a horseshoe arrangement, so that everyone felt included rather than just watching from the sidelines.It was one of those ceremonies where you could just feel the love in the room—the kind that made the guests well up before anyone had even said "I do”
Once we’d wrapped up photos, it was time for the real fun—steak, wine, and some seriously emotional speeches. I’ve been photographing weddings for over ten years, and I’ve heard a lot of speeches. But something about Rebecca’s sister’s emotional words hit me — so much so that I might have accidentally wiped a tear away behind my camera.
5 Best Things About Weddings at Sherbrooke Castle
It’s Convenient Yet Secluded
Tucked away in Pollokshields it’s close enough for guests to get to easily from Glasgow City Centre, but still has that "away from it all" feel.It Works for Both Big & Small Weddings
Whether you’re planning a 100-person celebration or something tiny and personal, the castle has spaces to suit both.The Conservatory is a Solid Backup Plan for Scottish Weather
If you’re worried about rain (which, let’s be honest, in Scotland, you always should be), Sherbrooke Castle’s conservatory is a stunning indoor option.It Has On-Site AccommodationIt Has Rooms for Guests to Stay Over
With 18 boutique bedrooms, your nearest and dearest won’t need to worry about taxis home at the end of the night.
Great Photo Spots
It doesn’t have vast grounds but it has some great little photo spots, mainly the wide steps in the garden and the grand stairwell in the castle.
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FAQs – Everything You Need to Know About Sherbrooke Castle Weddings
How many people can stay at Sherbrooke Castle?
There are 18 rooms, sleeping 35 ppl, so perfect for keeping family and friends close.What are the wedding spaces like at Sherbrooke Castle?
You can choose from the conservatory for bright, airy vibes, or the main function room.What is the history of Sherbrooke Castle?
Built in the 19th century, it started as a before becoming a luxury hotel and wedding venue.Is there a bridal suite at Sherbrooke Castle?
Yes, the bridal suite is spacious and bright—ideal for getting-ready photos.
Final Thoughts – Planning a Sherbrooke Castle Wedding?
If you’re looking at Sherbrooke Castle for your wedding, I hope this has given you a bit more insight into what a real wedding here looks like—from the ceremony setup to the best photo spots.
And if you’re still on the hunt for a wedding photographer who knows this venue inside out (and won’t run away when the speeches get emotional)? Let’s chat!
I’d love to hear about your plans and capture all the beautiful, fun, and unexpected moments of your big day.
Traquair House | An Enchantingly Romantic Venue
I’ve loved visiting Traquair House over the years to photograph small weddings and elopements. As a nature-loving wedding photographer, I’m always searching for enchanting backdrops that don’t just look romantic but feel romantic. Traquair House is one of those rare places with genuinely magical spaces that are perfect for saying “I do” and exploring for photographs.
Here’s my guide to why Traquair House is such a wonderful choice for a Scottish micro wedding or elopement.
7 Reasons I Love Traquair
Traquair House is nestled in the heart of the Tweed Valley, just 15 minutes from the bustling market town of Peebles, one of the liveliest spots in the Scottish Borders. If your guests need extra accommodation, Peebles has plenty of options. But Traquair itself offers so much charm and comfort that you might not want to leave!
Incredible Photo Opportunities
My photography style is all about the experience, and Traquair’s spaces are perfect for relaxed, genuine moments. Whether you’re wandering through the yew tree circle, enjoying a quiet moment by the river, or even sipping a pint in the Traquair Brewery, the photo opportunities are endless.Timeless Romance
With over 900 years of history, Traquair is packed with stories. Imagine walking in the footsteps of the Stuart family or picturing Mary Queen of Scots using the ancient crib that’s still kept within the house.Enchanting Grounds
If you love nature and a touch of whimsy, Traquair’s grounds are a dream come true. Wander through the Walled Garden, discover the moss-covered Victorian tea house, take a riverside stroll, or lose yourself in Scotland’s largest hedged maze.The Private 17th-Century Wing
Staying at Traquair is like stepping back in time. You’ll have your own private wing of the house, complete with two beautifully adorned bedrooms and a living room filled with period details that feel straight out of a romance novel.Variety of Ceremony Spaces
Traquair offers an array of stunning locations to tie the knot. You can exchange vows in the cosy drawing room, the historic library (a book lover’s haven!), or outdoors in Cupid’s Garden or beneath the ancient yew trees by the river. Every space is brimming with character and charm.Plenty of Accommodation
Between the house’s three bedrooms and additional space at nearby Howford House, Traquair can accommodate up to 24 people. Six of you can stay right in the house, soaking up its magical atmosphere.Unique Experiences
There’s nowhere quite like Traquair. From its historic brewery to the one-of-a-kind ceremony spaces, it’s a venue that feels truly special and unlike any other.
Want to capture the magic of Traquair with me?
What makes my packages perfect for a Traquair wedding?
From tiny elopements to intimate micro weddings, my photography packages are designed to fit around you. Whether you need just a couple of hours or a full day of coverage, I’ll help you make the most of your time at Traquair—rain or shine.
Flexible Coverage
Choose from 2-10 hours of photography with the option to extend if you’re having so much fun that you want more time to explore!Personal Planning Support
I’ll work closely with you and the Traquair team to ensure your day runs seamlessly, allowing you to enjoy every moment without stress.Next-Day Previews
I know how excited you’ll be to share your memories, so I’ll send you a selection of photos asap.Head over to my weddings info page for all the details!
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Traquair House Accommodation
Traquair can host up to 24 people between its three on-site bedrooms and nearby Howford House, which is just a three-minute drive (or a scenic half-hour walk) away. The private wing of the house is especially lovely, with views of the courtyard that make it feel like your own little world.
For guests needing additional options, Innerleithen and Peebles are nearby and offer fantastic accommodation like the Traquair Arms Hotel and Peebles Hydro.
And if you’re staying a while, why not explore the local area? Traquair is perfectly situated for adventures, whether that’s mountain biking at Glentress, horse riding at Kailzie Equestrian, or indulging in a chocolate-making experience at Cocoa Black. For something more relaxing, take a peaceful walk at Dawyck Botanical Gardens or along the abandoned railway tunnel—or, for the bold, enjoy a refreshing swim in the river near Neidpath Castle.
Let’s Chat About Your Wedding
If you’re planning your wedding at Traquair House, I’d love to hear all about your ideas. This is one of my favourite venues to work at, and I’d be thrilled to help you create stunning memories of your day.
Get in touch today, or visit my weddings info page to learn more about how I can help make your Traquair wedding unforgettable.
Traquair House Team
Gillian, Caroline and the rest of the team are fantastic, contact them at:-
Traquair House, Innerleithen, Peeblesshire, EH44 6PW
Gothic Wedding Magic in Edinburgh | Sarah and Lee’s Non-Traditional Day
A gothic wedding celebration at Edinburgh’s Prestonfield House filled with dark elegance and unique personal touches. From handfasting ceremony and mead-drinking ritual to an axe-wielding cake-cutting, Sarah & Lee’s wedding defied tradition in the most memorable way. Prestonfield black cat even appear to compliment Prestonfield’s moody décor and add the final bit of Gothic flair.
Sarah and Lee's Gothic Wedding at Prestonfield House in Edinburgh was a celebration steeped in Halloween inspiration and personal touches. First meeting working in the food industry, they bonded over their shared love of food, music, tattoos, and a creative, alternative lifestyle. After nearly a decade together, Sarah decided to take the lead and proposed to Lee on a holiday in New York—an unexpected yet perfect reflection of their unique connection.
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From the beginning, they envisioned a wedding with gothic charm, delicious food, and a relaxed yet deeply meaningful atmosphere. They found their ideal setting at Prestonfield House, with its delicious food, rich history, dramatic interiors, and gothic style. For their intimate gathering, Prestonfield provided them with small beautiful spaces which perfectly blended elegance and moody autumnal vibes.
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Sarah walked down the aisle in a dress that beautifully balanced traditional elegance with personal flair. Though she initially planned to wear black, she fell in love with the first gown she tried on, a glittering tulle-layered design with a flattering deep v-neckline and the perfect back to showcase her “Corpse Bride” tattoo—a subtle but fitting tribute to their shared love of the gothic. Completing her look was a custom headdress by Hysteria Machine, and her hand-painted leather jacket added a distinct edge.
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Lee’s wore a custom waistcoat sourced from Whitby Goth Festival, adding a unique gothic touch that tied in with the day’s theme. In a break from tradition, Lee chose his daughter as his best woman, a meaningful choice that reflected their close bond and added a personal touch to the ceremony.
Planning a Unique Wedding?
The ceremony itself was really tailored to them by the fabulous Tim Maguire, it blended pagan traditions such as a handfasting, drinking mead, and jumping over a broom. They walked down the aisle together as equals, they chose a soundtrack of music from Cradle of Filth, Ghost, and Type O Negative, reflecting their love of alternative styles. And Sarah and her mum’s beloved dog, Olly the Springer Spaniel, carried the rings up the aisle to them which brought a sense of warmth and playfulness to their gothic ceremony.
The ceremony itself was really tailored to them by the fabulous Tim Maguire, it blended pagan traditions such as a handfasting, drinking mead, and jumping over a broom. They walked down the aisle together as equals, they chose a soundtrack of music from Cradle of Filth, Ghost, and Type O Negative, reflecting their love of alternative styles. And Sarah and her mum’s beloved dog, Olly the Springer Spaniel, carried the rings up the aisle to them which brought a sense of warmth and playfulness to their gothic ceremony.
What is a Gothic Wedding?
Sarah and Lee’s wedding at Prestonfield House was a beautiful example of a Gothic wedding. So, what exactly makes a wedding “Gothic”? For Sarah and Lee, it meant embracing the moody elegance of autumn and the dark interiors of Prestonfield House along with personalised elements like a dramatic black wedding cake, and a custom handfasting ceremony. With deep colours, gothic decor, pumpkins and even a black cat, the day felt like something from a dark fairy tale.
What to Wear for a Gothic Wedding
Sarah’s wedding look showcased Gothic style with her custom crown, Corpse Bride tattoo, and a unique, traditional dress with a modern twist. She originally planned to wear black but fell in love with a dress that allowed her to express her love for Gothic elements, without giving up the classic feel of a wedding gown.
For guests attending a Gothic wedding, choosing attire in deep, jewel tones or even black can harmonize with the theme without overshadowing the couple’s look.
Finding a Gothic Wedding Venue in Edinburgh
When searching for a Gothic wedding venue, it’s all about finding a space with rich history and atmosphere. Sarah and Lee chose Prestonfield House in Edinburgh because it offered exactly that. The historic venue provided the perfect backdrop, with its dark, elegant rooms, dark jewel fabrics, gold features, chandeliers and antique charm.
For other couples considering a Gothic venue, Edinburgh has several options—from castles to grand estates—that capture the essence of Gothic romance.
Final Touches: Personal Details & Unique Traditions
With a ceremony complete with drinking mead, a handfasting, and even their dog delivering the rings, Sarah and Lee’s wedding went beyond convention. Lee’s daughter stood as his best person, adding a modern family twist to the traditional roles. These details made their Gothic wedding feel as unique and authentic as the couple themselves.
The Super Team
Photography: Ali Jay Photography
Celebrant: Tim Maguire of Celebrate People
Bride’s dress: Sophia Tolli at Hoops a Daisy
Bride’s headdress: Hysteria Machine
Bride’s shoes: Kurt Geiger, Michael Kors
Bridesmaid dress: JJ’s House
Cake: Liggy’s Cakes
Florist: Liberty Blooms
Groom’s trousers: Moss Bros
Ghillie Dhu | A Romantic Candelit Wedding Ceremony
The dramatic candlelit hall in the Ghillie Dhu looked beautifully romantic and the perfect place for Sarina & Liam’s wedding
It’s lovely that two teachers who travel the world teaching and exploring so many place’s chose Edinburgh for their beautiful wedding. Liam is Scottish and Sarina is from Germany and they love the city.
The dramatic candlelit hall in the Ghillie Dhu looked beautifully romantic and the perfect place for their ceremony. The Ghillie Dhu has super thick curtains which they use to close off the ceremony space within the hall, it creates a moody gothic space which is just lit by the Ghillie Dhu’s ornate chandeliers and candlelit mantlepiece. It really focussed everyone’s attention on the aisle for Sarina to make a dramatic entrance.
The Ghilie Dhu has access to the private gardens in Rutland Square so the whole wedding party headed along for a drinks reception. The summer rain arrived in good Scottish style but their hardy guests happily stayed out in the gardens rather than returning to the cosy bar in the Ghilie Dhu, until it go very heavy and they conceded that heading inside would be a good idea.
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The Ghillie Dhu’s chef’s create wonderful Scottish cuisine with a modern twist which was the perfect Scottish experience for their many German guests. When the guests returned for their meal the venue felt completely transformed with the curtains pulled back, the light spilled in through the stained glass windows. When the sun got low in the sky and the rain stopped I popped out with Liam & Sarina to get some pictures in Princes’ Street Gardens and then they finished off the night by introducing their friends and family to the lively fun of a ceilidh.
The Wedding Team:
Venue: Ghillie Dhu
Caterer: Ghillie Dhu
Band: The Big Shoogle
Cake: Nice Times Bakery
Florist: Pretty Little Petals
Hair & Make-Up: Julie McGuire
Ceremony Officiant: Neil Johnston
Dress: opus61_brautmode
Stylist for bride and bridal party: Julie McGuire
Bride Preparations Venue: Waldorf Astoria Caledonian Edinburgh
