Edinburgh City Chambers Elopement | Intimate Wedding Reception at Ardfern Restaurant in Leith | Jemma + Saf | Edinburgh Wedding Photographer
Edinburgh City Chambers Elopement | Intimate Wedding Reception at Ardfern Restaurant in Leith | Jemma + Saf | Edinburgh WEdding Photographer
Jemma and Saf, two of the most creative and go-getter individuals I know, had a beautiful Edinburgh City Chambers Elopement and intimate wedding day in Edinburgh, Scotland. This couple is not only dear friends of ours, but Jemma was actually my first friend that I made in edinburgh. I met up with her for coffee when I was visiting Edinburgh, years before I even met my husband Ross, who always says he first saw my profile from Jemma's Instagram. And as I wasn't using my Instagram account to focus on weddings yet at that time, and it was just filled with flat lays of coffee tables at cafes from my travels, naturally I was always connecting to people over coffee whenever I would travel to new places. And now Jemma and Saf own one of the edgiest coffee shops in Edinburgh, called Beatnik. It’s been such a joy watching them along thier journey of their relationship as well as their passion for design, art and coffee to all align for them to create inspiring and creative businesses within the edinburgh community.
So back to their wedding day, we started their wedding day by meeting at the courtyard of Edinburgh City Chambers, so go for a wander around The Royal Mile and The Old Town of Edinburgh. It’s truly an iconic part of the city and has the most historic buildings and gothic architecture to stroll around in. It’s always a beautiful area to take elopement portraits when getting married at The City CHambers, since it’s located in the heart of The Royal Mile. We strolled around the few blocks surrounding Edinburgh City CHambers before making our way inside before the guests arrived.
While there are many rooms that you can choose from to elope in at Edinburgh City Chambers, my favorite room will always be The European Room Suite. It can house up to 70 guests and looks out onto the historic courtyard of the chambers entrance, It is also lined with historic paintings that really make you feel like you’re in a mix between an art gallery and a scottish castle. Needless to say, they chose the European Room Suite to have their intimate ceremony in. There are rooms off to the side of the suite, where the couple can wait together or seperately, depending on if they want to see each other before the ceremony.
Jemma also had one of the loveliest wedding day outfits. Her wedding dress was from Malina, her lovely earrings were from Ellen Catherine and her shoes were from reformation. I could describe how lovely and beautiful they were in detail, but you can view the bridal portraits below to see a better visual description. All in all, it was stunning and very Jemma. Saf wore a Andrew Brookes suit and I was able to take one of my favorite groom portraits of him, in his iolla shades and holding jemma’s handbag while standing in his naturally sassy pose on The Royal Mile.
After their wedding ceremony at City Chambers, everyone headed down to ardfern for their intimate wedding reception. Ardfern is a cafe, bar and bottle shop based down in leith, and is the perfect space for an evening of cocktails and delicious bites from their creative menu.
And of course the entire restaurant was decorated in subtle but organic floral installations, by one of the best wedding florist designers in all of Scotland, Studio Kumari. Studio Kumari also designed Jemma’s stunning wedding bouquet. Another unique part of their wedding day was their extra long rectangle wedding cake. Again, the images below will speak better than my written description, but I was in love. The Pastry Section did such a wonderful job designing their wedding cake, from the frosted squiggle lines on the top to the pieces of fruit decorating the edges.
At the end of the day, Jemma and saf had such a chill and lowkey wedding day that started at the historic Edinburgh City Chambers and ended at one of their local favorite restaurants in Leith, Ardfern. I love that these two planned their day exactly how they wanted it, with their closest friends just laughing and enjoying their wedding day together, which was truly beautiful to witness as a friend and to be a part of the celebration. x
“Edinburgh City Chambers was the perfect place to get married in the heart of Edinburgh, Scotland, And Ardfern, based down in leith, was the best venue for their casual cocktail hour and intimate wedding reception.”
Edinburgh Wedding Ceremony venue - Edinburgh City Chambers, in the European Room Suite // Florist Company Name - Studio Kumari // Make-up + Hair Artist - MHM Styling // Wedding Dress - Malina // Shoes - Reformation // Earrings - Ellen Catherine // Suit - Andrew Brookes // Bride + Groom Rings - KATKIM // intimate wedding reception venue - Ardfern Restaurant // Wedding Cake - The Pastry Section
Edinburgh City Chambers Wedding Photographer | Gleneagles Townhouse Intimate Wedding Reception | Edinburgh Wedding Photographer
Edinburgh City Chambers Wedding Photographer | Gleneagles Townhouse Intimate Wedding Reception | Edinburgh Wedding Photographer
An Intimate Edinburgh City Chambers Wedding | Sophie & Sam
I photographed Sophie and Sam’s Edinburgh City Chambers wedding, and it was one of those days that perfectly captures why I love documenting city weddings in the heart of Edinburgh. Thoughtful, intimate, and effortlessly elegant, their celebration made the most of the Old Town setting while staying deeply personal from start to finish. As an Edinburgh City Chambers wedding photographer, days like this are always a joy — full of meaningful moments, beautiful light, and timeless surroundings.
Getting Married at Edinburgh City Chambers, Old Town
Sophie and Sam chose Edinburgh City Chambers Events for their ceremony, and it was the perfect backdrop for their vows. Located in the heart of the Old Town, City Chambers offers that unmistakable Edinburgh character, with all of it’s historic stonework, grand interiors, stunning architecture and an atmosphere that feels both iconic and intimate.
As Sophie arrived for the ceremony, the room felt calm and expectant, filled with soft light and quiet emotion. Edinburgh City Chambers is such a wonderful venue to photograph; every angle tells a story, and the setting adds depth and character without ever overpowering the couple.
For anyone searching for an Edinburgh City Chambers wedding photographer, this venue offers endless opportunities for timeless, elegant imagery both inside and just outside on the surrounding streets all along The Royal Mile up to Edinburgh Castle and down to the Palace of Holyroodhouse.
Natural, Editorial Wedding Photography in Edinburgh
I photographed Sophie and Sam’s day under Melody Joy Co., as a wedding photographer based in Edinburgh, Scotland, with a focus on natural, emotive storytelling. Their wedding wasn’t about rigid timelines or staged moments. it was truly all about connection, presence, and letting the day unfold organically. the moments in between throughout the wedding day, are just as important for me to capture as the main event of the wedding ceremony.
Edinburgh City Chambers is always a dream to photograph. The contrast between the historic interiors and the energy of the Old Town streets creates a beautiful balance of classic and modern. For couples planning a city wedding, working with an experienced Edinburgh City Chambers wedding photographer means every fleeting moment is captured without interrupting the flow of the day.
Bridal Hair & Makeup by Lyn McKenzie
Sophie’s effortlessly elegant hair and makeup were created by Lyn Mckenzie Hair And Makeup. Her look was timeless and natural, perfectly suited to the classic surroundings of Edinburgh City Chambers. The styling photographed beautifully throughout the day, as she was polished enough for the ceremony, yet relaxed and modern, which complemented Sophie’s dress and the overall tone of the wedding perfectly.
Botanical Wedding Flowers by Celandine
The florals for Sophie and Sam’s wedding were designed by Claire Sylvester of Celandine, who is a member of the Ochre Botanical Studios collective. Inspired by nature and seasonality, the arrangements added warmth, texture, and softness to the day. Against the historic stone backdrop of the Old Town, the florals felt organic, romantic and never overdone, but thoughtfully composed. Claire’s work brought everything together in a way that felt both artistic and effortless.
If you’re still searching for the best florist in Edinburgh for your wedding day, truly working with anyone from the Ochre Botanical Studios Collective is the best place to look. I only get more impressed with them, after each wedding day that I photograph their floral installations and wedding bouquets.
An Intimate Edinburgh Wedding Dinner at Gleneagles Townhouse
After their ceremony, Sophie and Sam continued their celebration with an intimate dinner at The Courtyard in The Spence at Gleneagles Townhouse. This Edinburgh reception venue is ideal for couples who want a refined yet relaxed setting for a smaller guest list. The atmosphere was warm and inviting, with stunning natural light pouring in from the ceiling above, allowing everyone to slow down, connect, and truly enjoy the evening. Soft lighting, beautiful interiors, and incredible food made it the perfect place to celebrate after their Edinburgh City Chambers wedding.
Sophie and Sam truly had such a joy filled wedding day, and I’m so grateful to have been able to be there to witness such a memorable day in the heart of this city that I love so much, in Edinburgh, Scotland. x
FAQs About Edinburgh City Chambers Weddings
Where is Edinburgh City Chambers located?
Edinburgh City Chambers is located in the Old Town, just off the Royal Mile. It’s a popular ceremony venue for couples planning an intimate Edinburgh city wedding.
Can you have wedding photos outside Edinburgh City Chambers?
Yes. One of the best parts of getting married at Edinburgh City Chambers is stepping straight into the Old Town for wedding photos. The surrounding streets, architecture, and hidden corners are perfect for timeless portraits.
Why choose an Edinburgh City Chambers wedding photographer?
An experienced Edinburgh City Chambers wedding photographer understands the lighting, layout, and timing of ceremonies at City Chambers, ensuring relaxed, natural photos without interrupting the flow of your day.
How many guests can attend a wedding at Edinburgh City Chambers?
Guest numbers vary depending on the ceremony room you choose, making City Chambers ideal for smaller, intimate weddings as well as slightly larger gatherings. The Council Chamber can host up to 110 guests and The European Room (which is a personal favorite space of mine) can host up to 70 guests.
Where can you host a reception after an Edinburgh City Chambers wedding?
Many couples choose nearby restaurants or private dining spaces. Sophie and Sam celebrated with an intimate dinner at The Courtyard in The Spence at Gleneagles Townhouse, a popular choice for elegant Edinburgh receptions.
Why I Love Photographing Weddings at Edinburgh City Chambers
Sophie and Sam’s day is a perfect example of why I love being an Edinburgh City Chambers wedding photographer:
A central Old Town location with iconic Edinburgh surroundings
Beautiful Historic interiors that photograph effortlessly
Ideal for intimate, meaningful ceremonies
Close to some of Edinburgh’s best reception venues
When couples choose City Chambers and pair it with a thoughtful and local supplier team, the result is always a wedding that feels timeless, relaxed, and full of heart.
Planning Your Own Edinburgh City Chambers Wedding?
If you’re planning an intimate city wedding and looking for an Edinburgh City Chambers wedding photographer, Sophie and Sam’s wedding is proof that you don’t need a huge guest list or elaborate plans, just meaningful moments, beautiful surroundings, and a team that you really trust. Edinburgh offers endless inspiration for couples who want a wedding that feels personal, elegant, and unforgettable and I’m so honored to photograph each beautiful couple, inside and out, in this stunning city of Edinburgh. x
The Lovely Edinburgh Wedding Suppliers
Edinburgh Ceremony Venue - Edinburgh City Chambers Events in Old Town
Wedding Photographer Based in Edinburgh, Scotland - Melody Joy Co.
Edinburgh Reception Intimate Dinner Venue - The Courtyard in The Spence at Gleneagles Townhouse
Edinburgh Hair and MUA - lyn mckenzie Hair And Makeup
Edinburgh Wedding Florist - Claire Sylvester of Celandine,
Who is a member of the Ochre Botanical Studios collective
Edinburgh, Scotland Wedding Photographer | Edinburgh City Chambers Ceremony | Gleneagles Townhouse Wedding Lunch | Lady Libertine Bar & Restaurant Wedding Reception
Edinburgh, Scotland Wedding Photographer | Edinburgh City Chambers Ceremony | Gleneagles Townhouse Wedding Lunch | Lady Libertine Bar & Restaurant Wedding Reception
Katy and Harry’s wedding day in Edinburgh, Scotland was the perfect blend of timeless elegance, meaningful tradition, and modern celebration. Set against the historic beauty of the city, their day truly included so many of Edinburgh’s most iconic and stylish venues, creating a dream narrative for any couples planning a refined edinburgh city wedding. As an Edinburgh Scotland wedding photographer, capturing a day like this is an absolute joy, not only because I was able to walk to all of these beautiful edinburgh venues from my house, but thisa day was filled with so much emotion, beauty, and unmistakable Scottish charm.
The day began in the heart of the Old Town, right on the Royal Mile, with their intimate and elegant wedding ceremony held in The European Room at Edinburgh City Chambers. This iconic space, known for its grand windows and classic architectural details, offered a romantic and light-filled setting for Katy and Harry to exchange rings and vows. Surrounded by their closest family members and friends, the atmosphere felt deeply personal and full of warmth. I always say that smaller ceremonies can still feel incredibly luxurious and have just as many memories in day to capture, as a larger wedding day does.
Katy was effortlessly stunning in her bespoke gown by Jessica Bennett Bridal, sourced from The Fall Bride. The dress combined modern structure with soft, romantic details, perfectly reflecting Katy’s style. A midi dress is always a good idea if you’re a bride that wants to have bridal portraits taken on the cobblestoned streets on the Royal Mile or anywhere in the old town of Edinburgh, Scotland. Her bridal look was completed by one of the most talented makeup artists in Scotland, Rae Mathieson Bridal, whose make-up enhanced Katy’s natural glow, and Alex from Meka Hair Design, who created an elegant yet relaxed hairstyle that held beautifully throughout the day. Every detail felt intentional and timeless.
Katy and Harry had the perfect wedding day in Edinburgh, Scotland.
Harry fully embraced Scottish tradition in a kilt by Gordon Nicolson Kiltmakers, a look that felt both meaningful and impeccably tailored. His ring, crafted by Beverley Hutton Moore Silversmith, was a striking and personal piece, while Katy’s rings by Dinny Hall Jewellery added a refined, contemporary touch to her bridal styling.
Floral design played a huge role in shaping the aesthetic of the day. Scotland Wedding FLorists, Sue Gordon from It Just Keeps Growing, alongside Kirsty from Flower Vogue Aberdeen, created arrangements that felt organic, textural, and seasonally inspired. Soft blooms and natural greenery added warmth to the ceremony space and flowed beautifully through the rest of the day, enhancing each location without overpowering it. They really created such a colorful spread of florals for the wedding lunch in The Courtyard at GLeneagles Townhouse.
Following the ceremony, all of the wedding guests walked from the old town of Edinburgh, to the New Town of Edinburgh, to make their way to Gleneagles Townhouse for a relaxed yet refined wedding lunch. This iconic Edinburgh venue offered the perfect backdrop for long conversations, laughter, and beautifully curated plates. The intimate setting allowed everyone to truly slow down and savour the experience, which was one of the most memorable parts of this wedding day. There is just something about being able to sit down at one long table with all of the closest family and friends to really commemorate such a special day in your lives in a more intimate way.
They picked not only the best wedding venues for their day, from Edinburgh City Chambers to Gleneagles TOwnhouse to Lady Libertine,
but they also found some of the best Scottish wedding suppliers to
create the wedding of their dreams in the center of Edinburgh.
As the sun dipped lower over the city, this Scottish Wedding celebration transitioned into an evening at Lady Libertine, where the mood shifted into full celebration mode. Known for its dramatic interiors and lively atmosphere, Lady Libertine was the ideal choice for Katy and Harry’s evening wedding reception party. Guests enjoyed dancing, cocktails, A DJ, and sweet treats from Kilted Donut, whose desserts added a playful and delicious finish to the night. When anyone gets married in Edinburgh who isn’t from there, I always recommend finding a local bakery, and just making a spread of everything delicious. Edinburgh, Scotland has some of the best bakeries, and all of them would be perfect for piling up on dessert tables.
Throughout the day, i just kept thinking about how much of an honour it was to document every moment of this day for katy and harry, not just as an Edinburgh Scotland wedding photographer, but being able to walk to all of these wedding days from our home in the heart of EDINBURGH. From quiet, emotional exchanges to vibrant party scenes, Katy and Harry’s wedding DAY TRULY showcased everything that makes Edinburgh such an incredible place to get married. FROM THE historic EDINBURGH venues, TO THE world-class SCOTTISH WEDDING suppliers, THERE WAS JUST ENDLESS LOVE AND CARE PUT INTO THIS INTIMATE WEDDING DAY.
Katy and Harry’s wedding DAY is a beautiful reminder that Edinburgh weddings can be both elegant and relaxed, traditional yet STILL modern. For couples searching for inspiration, or an experienced Edinburgh Scotland wedding photographer, this day was truly one to remember. X
If you’re still looking for a wedding photographer based in
Edinburgh, Scotland, I would absolutely love to photograph
you both in this city that I now call home. x
Edinburgh, Scotland Wedding Suppliers
Edinburgh Ceremony Venue - The European Room at Edinburgh City Chambers
Wedding Lunch - Gleneagles Townhouse @gleneaglestownhouse
Evening Wedding Reception Party - Lady Libertine @lady_libertine_
Edinburgh, Scotland Wedding Photographer - Melody Joy Co.
Florist - Sue Gordon from @itjustkeepsgrowing
and Kirsty from Flower Vogue Aberdeen @flower_vogueaberdeen
Make-Up Artist - Rae Mathieson Bridal @raemathiesonbridal
Hair Stylist - Alex from Meka Hair Design
Bride's Wedding Dress - Jessica Bennett Bridal @jessicabennettbridal from The Fall Bride @thefallbride
Groom's Kilt - Gordon Nicolson Kiltmakers @gordonnicolsonkiltmakers
Bride Rings - Dinny Hall @dinnyhalljewellery
Harry Ring - Beverley Hutton Moore @beverleyhuttonmooresilversmith
Dessert - Donut Towers by Kilted Donut
Gleneagles Townhouse Hotel Wedding | Edinburgh City Chambers | The Spence | Edinburgh Wedding Photographer
An Intimate Wedding Reception at the Gleneagles Townhouse in edinburgh, Scotland | Laura & Francis | Edinburgh City Chambers Ceremony | Edinburgh Wedding Photographer
Laura and Francis were married in the beautiful and romantic city of Edinburgh, Scotland. They started their wedding day with a lovely wedding ceremony at Edinburgh City Chambers and ended it with an intimate wedding reception at The Spence in The Gleneagles Townhouse.
They were married in one of my favorite rooms, The European Room, which is located a few floors up in the City Chambers building. It is only available for ceremonies on the weekends, as it is a room used for Edinburgh City Chambers meetings during the week.
Francis arrived early to stand at the front and see Laura for the first time as she walked down the aisle in her stunning wedding dress. The ceremony was a beautiful one and afterwards we took a few portraits by the large windows that naturally lit them both before we headed downstairs to the Edinburgh City Chambers front courtyard entrance, where all of their family members and closest friends were waiting to greet and celebrate them!
After Laura and Francis hugged their loved ones we strolled around Edinburgh together while I captured their wedding portraits. I really enjoy capturing candids from a distance, so that they can chat to each other for a bit with some privacy and just hold hands and stroll together as husband and wife. We strolled from The Royal Mile all of the way to The Gleneagles Townhouse Hotel, where the last half of their wedding day took place.
Once we arrived at The Gleneagles Townhouse, we went straight upstairs to the members only lamplighters rooftop bar and then to the downstairs bar at The Spence for Laura and Francis to have their first drinks together as husband and wife. Slowly guests started making their way to The Spence bar to enjoy a few drinks before being seated in the private garden room for speeches, a cake cutting and a lovely multiple course dinner from The Spence Restaurant. Honestly, if you're still looking for a place to host your intimate wedding, reaching out to local restaurants is always a good place to start. In this case, The Gleneagles Townhouse was the perfect venue for Laura and Francis' intimate wedding reception with their loved ones in the heart of Edinburgh.
“The Spence at The Gleneagles Townhouse is one of the loveliest settings for an intimate private dinner reception with your loved ones.”
Edinburgh City Chambers Wedding | Edinburgh, Scotland Elopement Photographer | Virgin Hotels Edinburgh Cocktail Hour | Bonham Hotel Wedding Reception | Duygu + Chris
Edinburgh City Chambers Wedding | Edinburgh, Scotland ELOPEMENT PHOTOGRAPHER | Virgin Hotels Edinburgh Cocktail Hour | Bonham Hotel Wedding Reception
Edinburgh City Chambers weddings are some of my favorite weddings to photograph in Edinburgh, Scotland. Nestled in the heart of historic Edinburgh lies a gem of elegance and heritage: the Edinburgh City Chambers. This enchanting venue provided the perfect backdrop for duygu and chris’ intimate wedding ceremony that seamlessly blended tradition with modern flair. The couple exchanged vows amidst the grandeur of this historic building, surrounded by close family and friends. The picturesque setting lent itself beautifully to capturing timeless portraits. After taking all of the family wedding photos in the courtyard of Edinburgh city chambers, we headed over to Calton Hill and the iconic Royal Mile serving as stunning historic backdrops for couple portraits to create memories frozen in time.
Following the heartfelt ceremony at Edinburgh City Chambers, the celebration continued at the stylish and modern commons club at the Virgin Hotel in Edinburgh, where a delightful cocktail hour awaited the guests. The lively atmosphere and chic ambiance set the stage for laughter and heartfelt conversations, creating unforgettable memories. But the excitement didn't stop there—the couple surprised their guests with a whimsical twist by arranging a double-decker bus ride to the Bonham Hotel. As they traveled through the streets of Edinburgh, an acoustic guitarist serenaded the group, setting the mood for an evening of enchantment.
Arriving at the Bonham Hotel, all of duygu and chris’ wedding guests were greeted with the melodic tunes of the guitarist continuing over drinks. The intimate gathering exuded an aura of warmth and closeness as guests mingled and shared stories. The night crescendoed into a formal dinner reception, where the couple, alongside their loved ones, had a beautiful multi course dinner around one large table with their loved ones. The ambiance was elevated by the elegant setting and the heartfelt speeches that echoed through the halls, celebrating the union of two souls amidst the beauty of Edinburgh's rich cultural tapestry.
This unforgettable celebration wove together the timeless charm of Edinburgh's landmarks with the couple's unique vision, creating an intimate wedding experience that will forever linger in the hearts of all who attended. From the historic City Chambers to the scenic Calton Hill and the lively streets of the Royal Mile, every moment was a testament to love, heritage, and the magic of creating cherished memories in a city steeped in history and romance.
Wedding Ceremony - Edinburgh City Chambers European room // Wedding Cocktail Hour - Virgin Hotels Edinburgh // Wedding Reception - Bonham Hotel // Wedding Portraits - The Royal Mile and Calton Hill
the Edinburgh City Chambers European Room on The Royal Mile is a dreamy spot for couples to tie the knot. It's like stepping into a fairy tale—beautiful ceilings, fancy lights, and old-style buildings make it feel like you’re a part of history.
Getting married here isn't just about the ceremony. It's about being part of something bigger. The room has seen so much history, and now it gets to be a part of a new love story. The Royal Mile's streets add to the magic. They're charming and make the whole day feel special. Saying "I do" here means connecting your love story to Edinburgh's past—it's pretty SWEET.
After the vows, the newlyweds are surrounded by a place that's seen a ton of stories. It's a reminder that their love is now a part of something really timeless and awesome. Basically, getting married in a historic wedding venue like the European Room in city Chambers isn't just romantic—it's like adding your love story to an endless list of other amazing stories from the past.
After a beautiful ceremony at the Edinburgh City Chambers, this wedding couple went for a super cool move. They chose the Virgin Hotels in the old town on Victoria Street for their guests' hangout—the Commons Club bar—for a post-ceremony cocktail hour. Now, this place isn't just any bar. It's like stepping into a trendy spot with a vibe that screams fun and chic. The couple decided to treat their guests to something special, turning the usual after-ceremony gathering into an unforgettable experience.
The Commons Club is like a hidden gem in the heart of Edinburgh's old town. It's not just a bar; it's a place filled with Solid drinks, clinking glasses, and good times. The atmosphere is electric, with its cool décor and cozy corners—it's the perfect spot for guests to unwind and celebrate the newlyweds' big moment. The choice of this spot wasn't just about a fancy venue—it was about creating an extension of the joy from the ceremony. By picking a spot like the Commons Club, the couple gave their guests a chance to keep the celebration going in a place that's all about good vibes and making memories. Imagine the happiness in the air as friends and family toast to the newlyweds, surrounded by the historic charm of Victoria Street. It's not just a bar; it's an extension of the love and joy that started at the City Chambers.
In a nutshell, this couple didn't just plan a wedding; they orchestrated a whole experience. Choosing a spot like the Commons Club wasn't just about drinks—it was about giving their guests a piece of their happiness in a place that's stylish, lively, and oh-so-memorable.
aS newlyweds, duygu and chris stood on top of Calton Hill in Edinburgh, the rain adding a touch of charm as they pose with umbrellas overlooking the majestic Edinburgh Castle. Despite the rain, the scene feels straight out of a romantic movie. The couple's love shines through the mist, embraced by the beauty of Edinburgh’s city skyline. The rain becomes part of the story, adding a poetic allure to their portraits against the backdrop of the ancient castle. It's not just about taking pictures—it's about turning challenges into beautiful, unforgettable memories. Calton Hill never disappoints on a wedding day, even in the rain it’s worth the drive or walk up.
Finally, Duygu and Chris had their wedding bus drop off all of their guests after a tour of edinburgh’s new town, to an intimate wedding reception tucked away in the charming Bonham Hotel, nestled in Edinburgh's picturesque West End. The setting exudes an elegant and cozy atmosphere, creating the perfect ambiance for a heartfelt celebration.
The Bonham Hotel is like a hidden gem, offering a blend of sophistication and warmth. The intimate reception feels like a private gathering among dear friends and family. The soft glow of lights, the tasteful décor, and the welcoming ambiance made for a beautiful evening. The couple, surrounded by their closest loved ones, shares laughter, heartfelt toasts, and cherished moments. The beauty of an intimate reception lies in the ability to truly connect, to have conversations that linger and memories that feel deeply personal.
As the evening unfolds, the culinary delights crafted by the bonham hotel's chefs add to the magic. Each dish is not just a meal but a work of art, served with care and attention to detail. The flavors dance on the palate, enhancing the joy of the occasion. The Bonham Hotel's West End location adds a touch of sophistication to the celebration. The quiet elegance of the surroundings becomes a backdrop to the love and happiness shared within. It's a perfect blend of intimacy and casual dinner party, creating an evening that feels both lavish yet personal.
And amidst it all, the newlyweds steal glances, their eyes reflecting the sheer joy of starting this new chapter together. The Bonham Hotel, with its intimate charm, becomes a starting place where their love and celebration intertwine, creating memories that will be cherished for a lifetime with all of their closest family members. x
City Chambers Edinburgh Elopement | Emily + Laurence | Scotland Wedding Photographer | Harriette Gordon
City Chambers Edinburgh Elopement | Scotland Wedding Photographer | Harriette Gordon Bridal Dress | Snapdragon Edinburgh Florist | The Fall Bride | Edinburgh wedding photographer
Emily and Laurence started their wedding day by meeting two of their best friends, who were their witnesses, on the royal mile in the Edinburgh City Chambers courtyard. I knew Emily and Laurence were having a formal wedding celebration with their friends and family at the weekend, so when she walked up wearing the most chic and fashionable outfit with full hair and makeup and beautiful florals, I was the most pleasantly surprised! I get so excited when couples, even for their intimate Edinburgh City Chambers ceremony, decide to wear something memorable for that day as well as their larger wedding party with their friends and family! Her dress was from purchased from The Fall Bride, which has some of the most unique dress designers around, like Harriette Gordon, which is the designer who made her short, fun bridal gown! And her florals were from an Edinburgh florist, Snapdragon, located in Bruntsfield, where they are also regulars!
After the intimate ceremony at Edinburgh City Chambers, where one of her friends delivered the sweetest poem about their lives, we headed out to take portraits around the old town of Edinburgh. Both Emily and Laurence met in Edinburgh as students putting on a show during the Fringe, so not only is the city a special place for them, but that part of town is as well.
After we strolled around the royal mile for a bit taking their bridal portraits, they mentioned wanting to grab a bite to eat before meeting up with their friends later. I, of course, only try to take on one shoot a day, so was happy to walk over with them afterwards to wherever they were headed to. So we made the journey through The Meadows over to Elliott’s Edinburgh for them to grab food and drinks. Elliott’s is one of their favorite places to eat and the staff knew who they were, which was the best! They ended the day with endless congratulations on their strolls and then I said goodbye so they could enjoy the rest of their intimate ceremony wedding day with just each other. It was a really relaxed and sweet way to have your legal ceremony and I loved how true to themselves they were. These type of days really fuel my creativity and give me so much joy to see couples doing things in their own unique and unconventional ways, and making their wedding day all about each other and what they want, as it should be.
I love living in Edinburgh and being an edinburgh wedding photographer and edinburgh city chambers is one of my favorite wedding venues in edinburgh. x
