A magical, fantasy-inspired elopement at Roslin Glen
Inspired by chidlhood dreams of ruined castles and a deep love of Scotland, Jess and Alfie tied the knot in Roslin Glen, near Edinburgh. Their elopement is full of atmospheric fantasy vibes and wonderful thrift finds, and features the most delicious vegan cake.
Where did your love story begin?
Alfie and I met at university almost 10 years ago. We were in the same university social club and it turned out were also in some of the same classes together.
What inspired your wedding plans?
We wanted to have something intimate and special, that was about us and our love and not a huge party that needed to please everyone else.
Scotland and specifically Edinburgh has always been a place where good things happen for us. We found out we could go teach in Japan there, we made amazing friends there and we have had some of our most fun dates there. We wanted to get married in a place that held good memories for us and somewhere where we can make more!
The location was suggested to us by our photographer, Raini. I had told her my childhood dream of getting married in the ruins of a castle and she came back with Roslin Glen which had amazing atmosphere and ruins!
We love your outfits! Tell us more…
I thrifted my wedding from Oswald’s, a local charity shop. I then got the dress fitted, had some embellishments added and the long sleeve custom made.
I was always under the impression I would wear a floaty ethereal gown, but when I tried on this vintage style A line dress, I felt like a princess. I tried on almost every dress in the store. I was supposed to only be looking, but when I saw myself in the mirror I bought it straight away.
Your photos are incredible!
Raini and her husband were super friendly and supportive. We interviewed a few photographers, but we just clicked really well with Raini, and her photos were amazing.
We really liked the fantasy misty moors type vibes. When speaking with her she really took our initial ideas and ran with them, taking them to the next level.
What was your first dance song?
Our first dance happened on the streets of Edinburgh Old Town to “Only you” by The Platters. Alfie played this song early on in our relationship because he said it reminded him of me.
Were there any challenges along the way?
Picking up the schedule was a bit of an adventure. Due to Covid, the regular council office in Midlothian was closed.
I think we went to every council building in the town before we got to the right place. When we got there all the doors were shut. We had to shout up to the people in the offices above to come down and talk to us! Did I mention it was over an hour bus journey there and back from the city centre?
Did you manage to stick to your budget?
Not really! But as we eloped we saved a lot more than if we had gone the more traditional route! I wouldn’t change anything about the day.
Any advice?
Do what makes the both of you happy. There are no rules to getting married and having a wedding. Don’t let what you think you are ‘supposed’ to do, get in the way of what you want.
What’s the one moment you will always remember?
Our first dance. I was so nervous, I’m not a dancer and we had walked a long way through the day and it was getting dark. But when the music started to fill the streets and my husband’s arms were around me, I felt so safe and happy. I will always remember that moment.
Which of your suppliers completely rocked your day?
Raini and her husband were awesome. They ferried us around, kept us fed and in good spirits. Onie, our celebrant was also amazing, very patient when we rocked up over 30 mins late!
Finally, our cake was amazing! We picked Missy’s as it had the same name as our cat. They were super helpful and responsive on social media, took allergies seriously and made us a vegan cake so good that we finished it all before we went home!