Pagan wedding at Balinakill Country House in Scotland with American couple

 

Kristen and AJ contacted me in the spring for their wedding taking place later on that year. I remember reading their initial email like it was yesterday. Due to the time difference, and me working really late, it was past midnight when my phone lit up. Curiosity got the better of me – and my excitement grew. Their enquiry spoke of how my work stood out to them, how they were planning a relaxed laid back wedding with their nearest and dearest. As our discussion over email continued, they went on to describe the details of their wedding which was taking place at a favourite wedding venue of mine, Balinakill Country House up in Scotland. Kristen included a mood board, a photo of her, AJ and their dog. It was like couple + photographer match made in heaven! I was so excited, and couldn’t wait for August to come. Within a couple of emails, I was booked! Their wedding day quickly came around. I made the 12hour drive from my home in the Midlands, and stayed in a lovely little B&B about 40minutes away. After a good nights sleep, and a lot of positive thinking about the weather, I made my way to Balinakill for bridal prep. It had rained non-stop for 3 days. As I arrived at Balinakill, the rain stopped. The sun came out, and it was one of the most gorgeous days of the year. Kristen was relaxed and excited for our plans ahead. I photographed a few details that they had put so much time and love into. Meeting Kristen and AJ for the first time on their wedding day may have seemed daunting, however after all the detailed and friendly email correspondence, it felt like we’d been friends for years previous. We’re now great friends on Facebook and will be hanging out anytime they make a trip back to the UK 🙂 Kristen and AJ wanted a first look, before a few pre-wedding photographs on the beach locally. The thinking behind this was to get some relaxed photographs taken before a 3pm ceremony. After the ceremony it meant they had some time for group photographs without disappearing from their guests for too long. It also gave them the opportunity to relax and unwind, but not lose out on amazing photographs. As the day continued, they had a pagan wedding ceremony, games for the kids, an amazing spread of food and a lot of Whiskey Story telling. The staff at Balinakill were amazing as always, and the wedding day went down without any problems. Everyone had an incredible time! Take a look at their incredible off-beat intimate Scottish wedding photographs below, and do let me know what you think in the comments below