It was definitely one of the more dramatic ceremony locations I've had the pleasure to photograph - cut into the rocks on a promontory into Loch Torridon, and everyone having to walk along through the gorse, fields and coastline to reach it.
The pair decided on an intimate wedding of 16 of their closest family and friends and, most importantly, their toddler Daisy. As their guests arrived, they were serenaded by duo, Stravair and then Cloe’s dad walked her down the aisle to Malibu by Mumford and Sons. Their celebrant, Halde Pottinger, had Gareth & Cloe bent over laughing during the ceremony, which was excellent for me, as Cloe is one of these fantastically expressive people who laugh with their whole being. Probably comes from being a professional dancer... but it was a joy to photograph!
After a wee confetti aisle, their planner - Sarah from Wild Scottish Weddings - suggested we go explore and take some couples photos whilst they prepared canapes (made by the groom's talented Chef sister!).
I don't need to be told twice to escape with an 'up-for it' couple, so we wandered up a path over this little hill on the island, not really knowing where we were going, but happy and chatting away. Suddenly, it opened up into this really special little cove - somehow dramatic and peaceful all at once - with dark fingers of rock protruding out into the water. Even better, it was my favourite kind of weather for the photos – dark storm clouds brooding across the sky, with sun bringing out the couple. The whole thing was just 'chefs kiss!' <3
The talented Eilidh from 'Eilidh Matheson makeup' had just started her content creation work, so came down to join us. After some umming and aahing about getting the couple in the water, Eilidh swapped her black Hunter wellies for Gareth’s shiny black shoes (usually it’s me giving the bride my zebra wellies!) and we got some great photos of C&G by (and in!) the Loch. Probably one of my favourite spots for couples’ photos of the whole year!
After delicious canapes, a few group photos and an aggressive attack by the local midgies, we jumped back in our cars and - with a brief stop at the viewpoint over Loch Torridon - headed back to their gorgeous, rented house, 'New Lodge' in Strathcarron. Guests had helped decorate it with bunting, a flower arch and lots of personal touches like retro photo prints of Cloe and Gareth.
The rest of the evening was perfectly intimate – one long dining table with amazing food and lovely speeches followed by their first dance in the property’s converted shed. No formal entertainment was scheduled, but this happy crowd were happy dancing along to the couples' playlists and, handily, one of their bridesmaids is a professional singer... for a bit of added panache for their favourites!
Cloe and Gareth’s day was super chill, absolutely gorgeous and filled with so much warmth – exactly how they wanted it ❤️
Testimonial
Suppliers:
Photography: Alison White Photography
Planner: Wild Scottish Weddings
Celebrant: Halde Pottinger
Ceremony Venue: Am Ploc Open Air Historical Church, Torridon
Reception Venue: New Lodge, Strathcarron
Cloe's Dress: Allure Bridals, Willow and Sage Bridal
Cloe's shoes: Evercreatures
Gareth's Suit: Moss
Hair: Jenna at Your Day Styling
Make-Up (& Content Creator): Eilidh Matheson
Flowers: Loch Duich Plants
Ceremony music: Stravair
The Gallery