Claire & Graham - 9th April 2011

My first wedding of the year and what a lovely way to kick off. Two of the best venues in Edinburgh, a beautiful sunny day, friendly happy guests and the most relaxed couple ever!

Here are a few of my favourites after a quick flick through the photographs from the day.

More will follow on my main website in a couple of weeks.

A fine Spring day greeted us at Prestonfield House just south of the city centre. Full of history, this is a remarkable venue and the service was of the very highest standard. At the last minute the ceremony was switched to the gardens as it was such a good day.

Graham and Craig looked pretty chilled out. I love the chance to photograph a Scottish wedding; to be surrounded by kilts is a return home for me.

The outside venue; shaded by trees but with a lovely view of the surrounding gardens and Arthur's Seat.

Claire and Graham had chosen a humanist celebrant (legally binding in Scotland but not England) and it was a very simple, friendly ceremony.

The wedding was sealed by 'fasting the hands'. This is an ancient tradition (but a first for me) where the bride and grooms' hands were tied with material from the kilt and wedding dress and the materials ended up tied together - hence the phrase "to tie the knot"

Ailsa, Lois, George and Robbie kept us entertained throughout the day. Great fun!

Off to Edinburgh's George Hotel for the ceilidh. The King's Room at The George is surely the finest big room in the city.

Claire and Graham's first dance was an Orcadian Strip the Willow. It meant everyone could join in and it was a lovely original idea.

Thanks to Claire and Graham for having me at your wedding. Thanks to all the guests for making it such a fun, friendly day.

Best wishes

Andy

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Marie & Gareth

My last wedding of the year and I'm so glad it was such a great day. The Apex International on Edinburgh's Grassmarket was the venue and it was a lovely combination of the modern hotel overlooking the ancient heart of Edinburgh's Old Town.

When the bride is getting ready there are loads of photo opportunities and it's a part of the day I enjoy photographing. Fiona and Julie were on hand to help Marie.

The girls were ready way too early but there are always last minute adjustments.

Gareth and his Best Man David waited patiently but Marie didn't keep them waiting.

The ceremony was very personal as Marie had been Christened by the same Minister (some years ago)

We were very fortunate to have access to the terrace overlooking the Castle for a few photos but we didn't stay out long and the Happy Couple were able to rejoin their guests for some fizzy and congratulations all round.

Marie and Gareth prepare to receive their standing ovation as they went into the wedding breakfast. Their guests fair raised the roof!

Great speeches all round. David's Best Man speech was a classic and very well delivered.

The first dance was followed by some fine Ceilidh dancing. For a Scot living in England this was particularly enjoyable.

Congratulations and Best Wishes to Marie and Gareth. Thanks for having me there to share your day and I hope these few pictures bring back some memories while you're waiting for the full set which will follow soon...

Andy