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Doubletree North Queensferry | Autumn Wedding
Katie and Zaraās autumn wedding at DoubleTree North Queensferry gave me the chance to explore the village I love (and live in) to capture stunning views of the Firth of Forth, plus a special visit to the 18th-century sailorās graveyardāperfect for their Halloween celebration.
DoubleTree North Queensferry is a brilliant spot for a big hotel wedding by the sea with its cracking views over the Firth of Forth and the Queensferry Crossing ā which twinkles at night.
I live in North Queensferry, so Iām a bit biased about this location, but I also know the village inside out ā from the iconic spots to the hidden gems that most visitors never find.
I first met Katie years ago when I photographed her mum Gayeās wedding to Richard, so it felt extra special to now be capturing her wedding day. We had a lot of laughs during their pre-wedding shoot with their characterful dog, Lois, whoās also had his own doggy photoshoot, where we captured his cheeky character. Unfortunately, he was perhaps too cheeky to bring along to the wedding.
I love Katie and Zaraās outfits. Katie rocked a tailored burgundy suit, which added an extra autumnal pop of colour and perfectly complemented Zaraās sweetheart dress and red hair, which, in turn, perfectly complemented the red hues of the Forth Rail Bridge. I also love that they had matching hoodies to cosy up in later in the evening ā a playful and personal touch that was so very them!
Their wedding, held the day before Halloween, had loads of fun, seasonal details but stayed true to their personalitiesālaid-back and full of life. I loved the dried flowers, which looked lovely with the blue bridesmaid dresses.
If youāre looking for a big hotel wedding venue, DoubleTree North Queensferry is a fantastic choice. With its amazing view to enjoy, itās incredibly accessible tooājust a 15-minute walk from the train station or a minuteās walk from the bus stop on the bridge. But what makes it even more special is the way the village offers countless opportunities for unique photos, whether you want to stick to the classics or find something a little different.
Katie and Zaraās day was filled with laughter, love, and a lot of funāa perfect reflection of their relationship. It was such a privilege to be a part of it all and capture these memories for them. If youāre planning a wedding here, Iād love to show you all the best spots and help you create something truly unforgettable!
The Pawfect Wedding At Balmule House
The heartwarming ātailā of Andrew & Emmaās āpawfectā wedding at Balmule House with their 5 month old retirever pup, Koda.
Iāve got to get this in here, this is a heartwarming tail of the pawfect wedding, sorry, cheesetastic!
Andrew and Emma embarked on a heartfelt journey to tie the knot in the enchanting landscapes of Scotland, and they didn't do it aloneāKoda, their beloved 5-month-old retriever puppy, played a significant role in their joyous celebration. Like Gavin and Stacey, they had met on holiday and then had a long distance relationship between Wales and Essex.
Choosing the pretty Balmule House, set in the countryside just outside Dunfermline, as the backdrop for their intimate ceremony, Andrew and Emma opted for an elopement surrounded by their closest family members and their furry companion, Koda.
Dressed in a fetching tartan bow tie, Koda was by Andrew's side, lending a paw in the preparations and eagerly observing the ceremony with genuine canine curiosity.
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But Koda's involvement didn't stop there. Thanks to Andrew's dedication to training, Koda had mastered a charming trick called 'middle,' where he skillfully maneuvered between Andrew's legs. This endearing trick became an unexpected highlight, adding a touch of whimsy and playfulness to their group photographs and is a definite training tip for anyone planning a wedding with their pup!
Koda proudly joined in the group photographs, effortlessly becoming a cherished member of the wedding party.
Puppies get tired and after all the excitement of the group photos, Koda crashed on the sofa during the drinks reception. We left Koda to nap and headed out for some golden wedding portraits around the lovely grounds at Balmule House. After a while, the groomsmen brought Koda out to join Andrew and Emma so they could enjoy some pictures with him. Koda's lively spirit added an extra layer of joy and warmth to moment.
"Dog-friendly" weddings are becoming more common, and for good reason. Our furry friends bring so much joy, love, and happiness into our lives, so why not include them in one of the most important days of our lives? Not only do they add an element of cuteness and fun, but they also serve as a reminder of the love that we have for our pets.
Here's to Andrew and Emma, their beautiful love story, and their pawfect wedding. May their marriage be filled with many more cherished moments with Koda by their side. And to all the pet lovers out there planning their own wedding, consider making it a dog-friendly affair. Trust me, it will be a day you'll never forget.
The PAwfect Team:
Venue: Franc and his wonderful team at Balmule House
Celebrant: John Tonner from Fuze Ceremonies
Modern Pipes: by Dean Saunders
Are you Planning a wedding at Balmule House?
Get in touch today, Iād love to be part of your amazing wedding team.
Pratis Barns the Alternative Barn Wedding Venue
My 2024 wedding venue guide to Pratis Barns, near Cupar, Fife. What's it like? Where can you all stay? What might it look like on your wedding day?? Check out what past couples have done to make their wedding day magical at this amazing Fife wedding venue, guide by Ali Jay Photography.
Get In Touch
Pratis Barns: Nicola, Patrick & Louise are fantastic, contact them at https://pratisbarns.com/weddings/
Balmule House - Country House Wedding Venue Fife
A wedding venue guide to Balmule House, the beautiful exclusive use country house boutique hotel wedding venue just outside Dunfermline.
Old Course Hotel Wedding | A Photographers Guide
A little guided tour of weddings at The Old Course Hotel. Wedding photography highlights from one of the most stunningly situated wedding venues in Fife, The Old Course Hotel in the heart St. Andrews.
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St Salvator's Chapel
St Salvator's Chapel is part of St. Andrewās University. The chapel was founded in 1450 and sitās in the Universityās quad and the entrance is from North Street.
Itās a 3 minute drive from the hotel. As University alumni it was the perfect place for Georgia & Julianās ceremony before their reception at the hotel .
Get In Touch?
Are you looking at the Old Course hotel or another great venue? Please get in touch if you have any questions of would like to check your wedding date?
Dunfermline Photography
I grew up exploring Dunfermline and Edinburgh and I took them for granted. Dunfermline is so undervalaued, nowadays Pittencrieff Park is one of my top places for photo shoots so click here to see why.