Welcome...my name's Neil...I'm a Humanist Celebrant
and I provide professional services for...
Weddings & Civil Partnerships
Vow Renewals, Commitment Ceremonies
Welcoming & Naming Ceremonies
Humanist Funerals & Memorials
Elgin - Moray - throughout Scotland
anywhere - everywhere - all over Scotland
Contact me on 07955 386512 / 01343 548709
email : neil.lynch@humanism.scot
http://www.humanism.scot
http://www.facebook.com/celebrantneil
call me for an informative, no obligation chat...
or click the tabs above
Who am I?
I'm a sports-mad, globetrotting chap with a love of the wild, the west coast and islands of Scotland, natural history, big bikes, dogs and all the good things in life...
an optimist, an all-round-believer in no such thing as an ordinary life.
I like to have a laugh, 😅😆😁 - lots of laughs actually.
I've had a full and varied work career; 36 years in Domestic & International Policing, Solicitor's Agent, Sports Project Coordinator, Bus Driver, Nude Modelling, Tennis Tournament Referee & Umpire, Tennis Coach, Transport Manager at London 2012 Olympics, (what an experience that was!) 6 years working in Iraq as a Forensic Programme Consultant, Barman, Course Instructor, Truck Driver...
dog lover, wind-up Dad and irritating Granda too!...visited over 50 countries...lived in London, Edinburgh, Iraq & the Highlands of Scotland...the list goes on and on !
Experience all you can in life!
I am now a romantic, fully trained husband and dad to a girlie Welsh spaniel puppy (Tanni)!
AND a Humanist Celebrant available throughout Scotland.
My Humanist beliefs are coupled with my vast experience of working with people in various roles for over forty years and have added, not only to my caring nature, but strengthened my strong interest in helping people. I've experienced personal tragedy and triumph and always look for the positives.
Please contact me to discuss how I can make your day, your ceremony, extra special.
Designed by you, for you. Your day, your say, your way. 💘
Neil Lynch
Humanist Celebrant
© Nikki @ Fledgling Photography
Tanni
my occasional ceremony escort
isn't she simply gorgeous?
love + love
unforgetable occasions
© David Grant Simpson
memorable days
unforgetable occasions
© Sean Bell Photography
Tanni
if it's white, she'll get underneath it!..tablecloth...wedding dress...
© Derek Christie Photography
mystical days
unforgetable occasions
© Sean Bell Photography
Love, love, love ❤️
© Derek Christie Photography
Love, love, love ❤️
© Danny Birrell
Love, love, love ❤️
© The Caryls
Love, love, love ❤️
© Danny Birrell
What do I do?
I design and deliver loving, sincere & personal ceremonies for you; your say, your way, for your day
ceremonies that are meaningful, memorable and enjoyable for you and your guests
Why have a Humanist ceremony ?
any time, any place, anywhere in Scotland !
My non-religious ceremonies are a really happy occassion. Every ceremony is designed to your choices, to encompass your beliefs and requirements. Imagine a ceremony that marks a major life event in a way that is personal, sincere, and honest…
Perhaps welcoming a much-loved baby to the world with a bespoke naming ceremony.
Or celebrating a couple’s marriage in a way that is sincere, warm, loving and genuine, that’s about the two of them and their relationship, and is full laughter and perhaps a few tears too.
Or a funeral that focuses on the person who had died and the life they led – not on the idea of an afterlife – but recalling the happy times, the loving times - and provides a dignified and sincere way of saying goodbye.https://www.humanism.scot/humanist-ceremonies/why-choose-us/
Vow Renewals & Commitment Ceremonies
make it special, make it memorable, make it all about YOU !
Your Vow Renewal Ceremony will be designed with you, for you, expressing your life, your love and your hopes for the future.
You choose every aspect, every element, so that your ceremony reflects your individuality and uniqueness as a couple.
Your Ceremony can be an intimate occasion with a small number of family and friends or part of a large celebration. It can be as formal or informal as you would like.
You can hold your Ceremony where you wish. It can be an indoor or outdoor location of your choice: at a hotel or a village hall, in your home or garden, or at a special beauty spot. It is up to you!
Humanist Funerals & Memorials
recall the happy times, the loving times, the life to celebrate...
The death of someone we know and love is often shocking and painful, even if it is expected.
Humanist funerals and memorial services offer a personal and fitting way to say goodbye to those who have lived without religion.
Humanist funerals bring people together to express sadness at the loss but also to celebrate the life lived. They focus sincerely and affectionately on the person who has died, paying tribute to the connections they made and left behind and the way they lived their life.
Whilst a funeral director is the professional most likely to deal with the practical arrangements of a funeral, what type of ceremony you choose is entirely up to you. And since funerals themselves have no legal status, humanist funerals – like all others – can be held in a variety of places, although in practice most are held in crematoria, cemeteries or woodland burial sites.https://www.humanism.scot/humanist-ceremonies/funerals/funeral-poems-readings-music/
Oops!...the perils of wearing a lightweight kilt on a windy hill in Scotland!
why have a HSS Celebrant?
why have Celebrant Neil?
I want to introduce you all to Neil👋🏽 He is the best humanist celebrant, I know.
He’s a specialist making it all about the couple and their love for each other - and the way he does it is just incredibly talented and creative✨
Maybe it’s even more special when you’re not Scottish, as he is wearing a kilt and bringing all the traditions with him into the most beautiful surroundings of Scotland🌿
You’re lucky if you get to book him though, he is a very busy man - of course 🙏🏽
I hope to see you again soon Neil Lynch :-D
Getting married in Scotland?...need a unique, bespoke, customised kilt?...YOU DO!...made to measure kilts from the studio of Paula Duncan, Bespoke Kiltmaker. Paula has tailored 3 kilts for me (4th on the way) and I just love her quirky style, the way she incorporates subtle little touches on her fringes, linings, kilt pins, different colours of leather straps & buckles...you name it, Paula can do it. And has for several of my clients. For ladies AND gents. Highly recommended. See her work on Facebook - https://www.facebook.com/kiltmakingclasses/
Just a few snapshot videos of the many weddings I've conducted ❤️
https://www.facebook.com/highlandlovestories
https://www.facebook.com/flat4dmedia/videos/241892990493422/
https://www.facebook.com/watch/?v=366584857654457
https://vimeo.com/228393451
https://youtu.be/6RYllQNcBv0
https://vimeo.com/370568204
https://www.facebook.com/klsweddingfilms/videos/1138200053548066
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=v5JhuvG1ync
https://vimeo.com/374974128
https://www.facebook.com/bodaproductions/videos/733513950541919/
https://www.brawbrides.com/blog/2020/9/3/gorgeous-soulful-wedding-isle-of-lewis?fbclid=IwAR1jAPuS6PEwHHkF4C6XR-BsHNtDpx-lETfA75Q9oBNAmrZ3-E-fqWzzv1I
https://vimeo.com/301204150?fbclid=IwAR1tvZlo_hxcWnnCFSZ7gF14wn2w5e-zOH1ZSrHthlCpkgn8QjmFIVRKP-E
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Tq5r4jJ4dGo
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=630UX6uCyHU
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=jbUxeU34ook
https://fb.watch/9TDynR3uAh/
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=z_2MB9zzKh8
https://vimeo.com/742422584
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=6ZzQSYk7GsQ
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=3N5OZvLz_0I
https://www.facebook.com/jenni.tutty/videos/552926493339199
AND our youtube page with lots of part-ceremony ideas. See link;
https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCUFqKt8c5vRu2_VE2-6Gaew/videos?view=0&sort=dd&shelf_id
Just some of the photographers I have worked with;
Loch Duich plants http://www.flowersbythecastle.co.uk/
Caroles Florist https://www.caroles-skye.com/
Simply Flowershttps://www.simplyflowersskye.co.uk/
https://www.briarroseflowers.co.uk/
https://www.bothyblooms.com/sghr94gpsr8rh6ppaootdidls1c87o
http://www.haysflowers.co.uk/?fbclid=IwAR3QFQ6fkb-
Angela Hunter Flowers (Inverness) http://www.angelahunterflowers.com/
A few examples of wedding vows...they're all here...romantic, funny, cheeky! 💘😲🙈😂
Bride you are the person I want to share my life with. I want to be the one to give you warmth when you are cold, comfort when you are in pain, joy when you are sad. I will care for you as you care for me, sharing equally in the responsibilities we both bring to our marriage. I will support you in all your endeavors. I give you my trust and promise to be worthy of your trust. I will remain by your side now and forever as your husband/wife. I groom accept you bride in marriage as my legally wedded wife.💘
Groom I love you. You are my best friend. Today I commit myself to you. I promise to encourage and inspire you, to laugh with you and comfort you. I promise to be true to you in good times and in bad, when life seems easy and when it seems hard. When our love is simple, and when it is an effort. I promise to cherish you, and to always hold you in highest regard. These things I give to you now and forever as I bride accept you groom in marriage as my lawfully wedded husband.💘
"Daniel - you are the person I want to build my life with.
You are a kind, loyal, passionate person who I love laughing with.
Your friendship and unwavering support is something I know I can rely on through good times and bad.
I promise today and always to share your dreams and help you achieve your goals, working with you and never against you.
I will care for you as you care for me, sharing equally in the responsibilities we both bring to our marriage.
I understand that marriage will not always be easy but promise to celebrate the highs and am committed to working with you through the lows.
I cannot wait to continue life’s adventure with you by my side.
It is with a joyous heart that I take you as my husband and pledge my whole heart to you in front of our friends and families.
I Erin accept you Daniel, in marriage to be my lawfully wedded husband."💘
"Erin - You are my best friend and the person who makes me the best that I can be.
I will always believe in you and be your biggest supporter in all things, to help you achieve everything you want to in life.
I promise to laugh with you, have fun with you, play games with you, dance with you and share all of the good things that we have ahead of us.
And, when you are tired, I even promise to rub your legs when you need.
I will love you whenever we are together, and when we are apart.
I cannot wait for us to start the next chapter of our lives together, building a home and a family together, wherever in the world our journey takes us next.
You are all I could ever want and I love you with all my heart - and I promise to always be by your side as we face life’s challenges together.
I Daniel, accept you Erin, in marriage to be my lawfully wedded wife." 💘
Now isn't that just beautiful! 😍
"We were made for each other - and now we'll make magic together." 💘
"Today, I Kevin promise you, Jessica, that I will laugh with you (my favourite comedian) cherish your smile and kindness.
Comfort your occasional vulnerability and support your determination and passion that runs within you each day. I promise I will try to support our family with you, in a house filled with laughter, patience, understanding, compassion and love. Let us be partners, best friends, and lovers, today and all of the days that follow.
I vow not just to grow old together, but to grow together. I can't wait to live our journey. I will love you faithfully through the difficult and the easy. After all I belong with you, you belong with me, you're my sweetheart
I Kevin accept you Jessica in marriage to be my legally wedded wife."💘
"Today, I Jessica, promise you Kevin that I will love you faithfully and honestly through all of the good times and the bad, forever and always.
You love me on the days when I forget to love myself and you support me in everything I choose to do. I promise to always listen to your advice, occasionally take it and never take you for granted. I will always be here for you when you need me, I will encourage and of course challenge you.
I will do my best to be patient and forgiving and I’ll say sorry more, even though I’m always right. I’ll never stop trying to make you happy and I look forward to a life filled with friendship, love and laughter, with you as my handsome husband.
I Jessica accept you Kevin in marriage to be my legally wedded husband."💘
"I wish we had met each other sooner so we could love each other longer." 💘
Bride, I didn't fall in love with you.// I walked into love with you,// with my eyes wide open,// choosing to take //every step along the way. I do believe in fate and destiny, //but I also believe //we are only fated to do the things// that we'd choose anyway. //And I'd choose you; //in a hundred lifetimes, //in a hundred worlds, // in any version of reality, // I'd find you //and I'd choose you. // I Groom accept you Bride // in marriage //to be my legally wedded wife. (the mandatory legal bit) I give you this ring as a token of my love.💘
I Bride accept you Groom// in marriage //to be my legally wedded husband. (the mandatory legal bit) On this day, //I give you my heart and promise, //I will walk with you, // hand in hand //wherever our journey //through life takes us. // May we have many adventures// & grow old together. I will give you all my love// from this day till my last //& promise to laugh with you in the good times //and cry with you in sad times. I will care for you, // stand beside you //and share with you //all of life’s joys //and all of its hardships //through all the days //and nights of our lives. I give you this ring //as a token of my love; //when you look upon it think of me.💘
Today I, Tristan commit myself to you Amandine. I promise to encourage and inspire you, to laugh with you and comfort you. I promise to be true to you in good times and in bad, when life seems easy and when it seems hard. When our love is simple, and when it is an effort. I promise to cherish you, and to always hold you in highest regard. These things I give to you now and forever. 💘
Today I, Amandine commit myself to you Tristan. I promise to encourage and inspire you, to laugh with you and comfort you. I promise to be there for you, in cold winter mornings, to warm you, on soft springs to watch our love grow, in our summers to play in the light of the sun, and in our autumn to kiss your fingers and say, it has all been worth it - every moment of our love. 💘
25 Adorable Love Song Lyrics to Inspire Your Wedding Vows - https://www.weddingwire.ca/wedding-ideas/25-adorable-love-lyrics-to-inspire-your-wedding-vows--c394 💘
From this day forward, you shall not walk alone, my heart will be your shelter and my arms will be your home. 💘
From one scientist to another...
Daniel, as your scientist, you know words don’t always come naturally to me. Therefore, on this occasion I looked to the periodic table of elements and their properties to aid me with this assignment.
D: Dysprosium like you is a rare earth element, and I am so lucky to have someone as wonderful and as unique as you, to share life’s adventures with
A: Arsenic is an element that doesn’t describe you, but perhaps is one that should be on the forefront of your mind as a suitor who is about to commit to a life with a Forensic Toxicologist 😊
N: Nickel like you is a good conductor of heat, you warm my cold hands and feet on demand, and you warm my heart always
I: Iron like you has incredible strength and I know that you will always be there to support me in life
E: Einsteinium is an element named after Albert Einstein, and reflects your intelligence and thirst for knowledge, which I deeply admire and appreciate
L: Lutetium is another very rare earth element, which can be used to describe you physically, with your handsome silvery-white appearance, when you smile at me it makes my whole world light up
I, Denise, vow to love you, Daniel. I am proud and honoured to have you as my life’s partner and promise I will always be at your side.
Dee, I love you. You’re a catalyst in my life; you make me a better person.
Everything is awesome when you’re part of a team, and we make a great team.
You look out for me and I’ll look out for you.
When the rain is falling I’ll raise an umbrella and we'll stay dry together.
When the sun is shining I’ll hold your hand and we'll enjoy it together.
When the wind is howling I’ll hug you tight and we'll shelter together.
When the night is dark I’ll light a fire and we'll snuggle together.
I’ll share my life with you; adventures and laughter; up skyscrapers and down ski slopes.
I promise you comfort when you’re in pain, encouragement when you’re in doubt, and shoulder rubs when you’re tense.
I vow to listen when I’m wrong, ask for help when I need it, and minimise sock fluff on the carpets.
I wish for us to not just grow old together but also grow together.
The experiment is complete and the null hypothesis is rejected; you’re the one for me.
We’ll tackle all that the world throws at us, in sickness and in health, during the good times and the bad.
Together.
My friend, my fiance, my soulmate, MY LOVE! 💘
Client pics & ceremonies
happy days, days filled with love 💘😍
Flower & fauna - and lots of love for Gemma & George
29 July 2021 - Glen Dye
a fairytale castle for a bride with a princess dress!!
27 July 2021 - Achnagairn Castle
Achnagairn Castle is a truly unique, five-star venue set on a beautiful Highland estate of thirty acres. Just the place for Emma & Andrew to marry. In a delightful wee break from tradition, mother-of-the-bride was the ring bearer! How did ther proposal go I asked?...With lockdown lifting, up to Harris they went, and after a wonderful week touring the Islands came a moment of clarity. Not a cloud in the sky, standing on the waters edge, watching seals basking in the sun and a curious sheep as witness, where else could it be? It was now or never - Andy popped the question…she said yes...it was the best day.And now they are Mr & Mrs Yates !!
Samantha & Finlay in spectacular scenery
24 July 2021 - Glencoe
paradise for Emily & Greg
24 July 2021 - Novar Estate, Evanton
Iona & Rory in a woodland paradise
22 July 2021 - Samire Wood, Broadley
Morven & Scott in one castle!
21 July 2021 - Brodie Castle
Hannah & Calum in another castle!
14 July 2021 - Eilean Donan Castle
Cheryl & Gary in the sunshine
14 July 2021 - Logie Country House, Pitcaple
Clare & Martin did it overlooking the golf course!
11 July 2021 - Forester Park, Dunfermline
trees, trees & more trees for Meg & Henry
10 July 2021 - Glen Dye, Banchory
a dawn wedding for Jenn & Ross
5 July 2021 - Fairy Glen, Isle of Skye
a beautiful riverside setting for Karen & Martin
2 July 2021 - Banchory Lodge Hotel
Jenny & James - a perfect match
30 June 2021 - Inchberry Hall, Elgin
They met on a cold and wet May weekend at Tralee Bay near Oban, where they’d gone for a Ski Club weekend. Over Fish & Chips at the caravan park chip van, - how romantic. She’s a good, solid, down to earth lass, not much worries or phases her, not a handbags & shoes kind of girl, but has expensive tastes in Goretex jackets. He's a genuinely nice person and looks after her, (she can be a nightmare sometimes he said!), a Jack-of-all trades and good at DIY / building things, her ski-tech and bike maintenance boy, Head of Security in the household, cuts the grass & puts the bins out. A perfect match! Congratulations Lyndsey & Paul, you are now married!
A Canadian and an American tie the knot in the Scottish wilderness
27 June 2021 - Sligachan
Joanie from Canada & Tom from the US. They met out of sheer luck in 2013, and reconnected by coincidence years later, while they lived 4,000 miles apart. Quickly it was clear it was definitely a relationship. They both felt the same. For a year Joanie flew to California and Tom flew to Quebec as often as they could, while planning to move to Scotland together. And they did move - to Edinburgh. Tom designed and commissioned a ring and since they were now in Edinburgh, he proposed at Rosslyn Chapel in February and presented the most beautiful ring you’ve ever seen. Joanie would have said yes with a ring from Primark (even if he had proposed at Primark!), but this just made her fall in love with him even more. And today they jumped the broom and married in the wilds of Skye, overlooked by the Cuillins. Congratulations!
Lesley & Calum - they just couldn't stop smiling!
24 June 2021 - The Waterside Hotel, West Kilbride
Bride Lesley walked down aisle to her very own pipe tune, written by her Grandpa Fleming, as her groom Calum waited with a beaming smile when he saw her for the first time. More smiles, laughs and giggles followed - even a few happy tears - as they and their guests revelled in the joy of their wedding day - at last, finally, at the 3rd attempt. Congratulations Mr & Mrs Mackintosh.
My husband and I chose Neil for our big day as we thought he would bring a great balance of humour and love to our ceremony and we were not disappointed! Neil is amazing and we were so happy to have him as part of our day he couldnt have made it any easier and we both thoroughly enjoyed every second of the ceremony Tanni was just beautiful and so well behaved we were so happy she joined us also thanks again
and baby came too!
9 June 2021 - Loch Garten
love is love...
4 June 2021 at Balquhidder
The first time they saw each other there was a connection. Rugby shorts, chocolate cereal, nurses uniform, all had an impact.They spent many hours together until the ‘‘what is this’’ moment. They realised it was love and two people who ‘fit’ and made each other better. Love made it work for Jacqueline & Megan.
young love...
2 June 2021 at Seafield Arms, Cullen
new love...
29 May 2021 at Morton Castle
a magical, mystical place to marry for Katie & Adam
23 May 2021 at Torren Lochan
a fairytale wedding in a fairytale castle
15 May 2021 at Logie Country House
the weather fairies were kind to us, just long enough for Emily & Andrew to be married!
5 May 2021 at Glen Etive
I love woodland weddings...so too do Aysha & Paul!
27 April 2021 at Loch An Eilean
in the wild, where this pair of lovers decided to tie the knot!
27 April 2021 at Glencoe
Georgia & Zac get married in paradise
22 April 2021 at Loch Coruisk
Glencoe in the spring for two soulmates
20 April 2021 at Glencoe
lovely woodland wedding for Ailsa & Sam
13 April 2021 at Banchory
lovely garden wedding for Ellen & Marco
10 April 2021 at Muir of Ord
Francisca & Tom FINALLY married!
9 April 2021 at Aswanley
Amanda & Andrew - quick quick quick...they want to get married SOON!
2 January 2021 at Glen Dye
This one was VERY special - Lauren & Ben
23 December 2020 at The Rabbit, Templepatrick near Belfast
Ruth & Colm...both as mad as a box of frogs!
19 December 2020 at Drumtochty Castle
Julie & Liam eloped too!
2 December 2020 at Culbin, Forres
a late autumn elopement, in the woods, with glorious sunshine streaming through the copper leaves and a nip in the air, a dapper groom and a beautiful bride in a stunning dress, a couple of dogs romping about, (theirs and ours), birds singing...love is in the air for Julie & Liam. What more could you ask for? And now they're Mr & Mrs Turner!
We originally booked Neil to do our big wedding (which wasn’t meant to be until sept 2021). However we changed our minds as 2020 just grew to be so uncertain, which meant 2021 would be much the same. We decided to have a tiny wedding. Neil was so helpful throughout the whole process and guided us a lot along the way. We can’t thank you and your wife enough! We could have had a guest list of 1000 with the ceremony Neil prepared. It was just perfect. Thank you Julie and Liam
Hannah & Tadas share the love
7 November 2020 at Nairn
a new venue for Tanni & I today...Invernairne, a lovely house you can rent in it's entirety and one of the best boutique hotels in The Highlands. And that's just what local couple Hannah & Tadas did, with close family & friends, joined in a Zoom transmission to Lithuania, to celebrate their life, their love and their future together in marriage. And now they're Mr & Mrs! Love wins! 😍
Originally built in the 1800s by the famous Dr Grigor and later owned by The Lord Chief Justice, this wonderful place is now owned and ably managed by Camilla & Ryan. Camilla is a force of nature herself, organising, encouraging, cajolling and reassuring the wedding party & guests. The perfect hostess.
Panoramic sea views, extensive gardens, a beach walk directly from the garden and a baronial lounge bar with a roaring fire and extensive wine and whisky list. What more do you need for your mini-wedding? ❤️ The place is perfect.
"We had Neil as our celebrant for our wedding on 7th November and we couldn’t have asked for a better person to conduct our ceremony for our micro wedding. Everyone was commenting on how good a humanist ceremony was and that Neil had a certain charisma about him. Neil is lovely to speak to and eased any concerns right from the start up until I walked down the aisle and we had full confidence that the ceremony was going to be perfect.. and it ended up being what Tadas and I envisioned, but even better! Tanni was also popular around the guests. So thank you neil for creating our special day! Best wishes from Mr & Mrs Martynaitis"
https://www.facebook.com/poppycockweddings/videos/219960306253323
Lauren & Murray just go for it!
1 November 2020 - Bridge of Dye
a wild & windy hill at Bridge of Dye today...🌧💨the rain was lashing just a few minutes before we began, the tail end of the storm blowing through. We trudged up the hill through heather & mud to a wee clearing between trees with a stunning view before us. The rain had stopped, the guests formed a circle of love, groom Murray waited nervously for the arrival of his bride Lauren, escorted by her dad Rob. Hugs & kisses, the Prince had found his Princess and now they are married! 😍They'll have their celebration party sometime in the future, Lauren will be able to wear her dress and yellow wellies again! 💘
What can we say about Neil. He’s one of the most warm and welcoming people that I’ve ever come across. So flexible and willing to adapt to any plan our crackpot scheme you desire. Take us for example. We got married on Halloween, in gale force winds and potentially driving rain (though the sun and a rainbow actually came out in the end) His zest and passion is refreshing.
Neil has officiated at hundreds of weddings and by goodness does it show. He has a mastery of balancing words and emotion. Succeeding in transforming Murray and my journey into a story for all to enjoy.
Neil, I cried when I thought you wouldn’t be able to be our officiant. That’s how awesome we believed you to be, before even meeting you.
One ceremony later and I know that our instinct was spot on. We look forward to our next instalment in 2021.
Keep doing what your doing, you’re in the business of selling happy endings, and the wrapping you provide is a million dollars.
Lauren and Murray 💘
Picture © Jonathan Addie
one of the best castles in Scotland for a wedding!
Eilean Donan Castle - 25 October 2020
Kelly bought Shaun on the internet, or that's what she tells people. She says she searched for a bearded, tattooed nice guy and found Shaun. Really, they met on an internet dating site and chatted for few weeks before arranging to meet up for coffee and a cinema date. They hit it off straight away on their first date and never looked back. Destiny eh?
And today, finally, they had their wedding ceremony in a place they've fallen in love with. Love wins again. ❤️
Neil was our celebrant for our wedding yesterday and I cannot recommend him highly enough. All our guests were talking about him after the ceremony. He is the absolute perfect mix of professionalism, humour, warmth and fun. He sent lots of helpful information at the time of booking, gentle reminders when stuff was due and just made the whole thing the least amount of stress possible. Also he brought along his beautiful dog Tanni and having a dog at our wedding made my day. Thank you so much Neil for making our day so special.
another stunning venue
The Hermitage, Dunkeld - 24 October 2020
Walk through towering Douglas firs to the folly of Ossian’s Hall, and gaze over the falls. Look up! The giant Douglas firs here are among the tallest trees in Britain.🌲Come face to face with the thunderous Black Linn Falls – best viewed from Ossian’s Hall. 😮Breathe in the earthy woodland and tang of pine needles as you wander along the banks of the River Braan. Look out for the totem pole hidden in the woods – and red squirrels darting about in the tree tops.
See salmon leaping up the falls in autumn as they head to spawning grounds further along the river. 😮This stretch of magical Perthshire forest was originally designed as a pleasure ground in the 18th century for the Dukes of Atholl. And it was here, inside Ossians Hall, that Sarah & Matt decided to have their wedding. 🥰And why not? Could you get a more dramatic, intimate venue? ❤️
Neil was fantastic through every step of the way - from the first FaceTime to the ceremony and all the emails and Covid changes. His communication was great throughout and he made us feel relaxed on the big day. I couldn’t recommend Neil enough - he was great!
let's just do it!
02 October Kingsmills Hotel, Inverness - Iona & Mark
the sun was shining, the birds were singing, a cool groom and a nervous bride...and the perfect setting for Iona & Mark to finally have their wedding. No more worries, no more delay, let's just do it they said. They can have their party another time, maybe next year. And Iona will get to wear her gorgeous dress again! In marriage, they want to be as mad as their grandparents are, as their mums and dads are, being married together for so many years. I think they will. ❤️
Cannot recommend Neil enough! From start to finish he was a pleasure to deal with and kept us right every step of the way in planning our wedding. Like so many others our original wedding plans changed due to Covid and Neil was so helpful, kind and accommodating during a stressful time. We were delighted with our ceremony- warm, funny and personal - and Neil captured everything we wanted to say. Thank you!
They did it - at last!
Sarah & Chris - 24 September 2020 - Ruthven Barracks
They did it! At last, Sara & Chris, they did it! 😍 And in the place so special to them both, for this is where the proposal took place. Actually, two proposals - because after he proposed to her, he said that she should propose to him - and she did! That was a few years ago but 3 years ago from today they declared their commitment to each other in a lovely ceremony after a somewhat arduous day...they'd just run a marathon! No such exertions today though as they toddled up a wee hill to the Barracks again, to declare their love and devotion to each other - for life. And stepped over the broom into a new chapter of their love story. As husband and wife. Officially Mr & Mrs Cull. Once in a lifetime, you find someone who loves you for who you are and not who you could be. ❤️
beautiful couple, beautiful location
Olivia & Adam - 21 September 2020 - Loch Garten
A passionate love is good doubtless, but a beautiful love is better. Olivia & Adam came all the way from South Africa to a Scottish loch & woodland to declare their love to each other in a wedding ceremony...just the two of them. And it was beautiful. ❤️ Once in a lifetime, if you’re lucky, you find someone as you have found each other. Beautiful photographs on the photographers blog - click on the link.
https://thecaryls.co.uk/cairngorms-elopement-loch-garten-scotland/
a quiet little loch in Glencoe
Kelly & Tom, - 5 September 2020 - Torren Lochan, Glencoe
re-visited the beautiful Torren Lochan at Glencoe today, where, joined by Katy Homan & Jim Caryl, Photographers, I had the pleasure of joining in matrimony a lovely couple, Kelly and Tom from Colchester. A time to pause, look back, and smile at all the moments that brought them here. And a time to look ahead at all the wonderful moments that are still to come.
Marry in a nature reserve with rare wildlife - why not?!
Roxanne & James - 29 August 2020 - Glen Affric
beautiful location, beautiful dress, beautiful words of love said to each other by Roxanne & James during their wedding ceremony today on the woodland hills overlooking Loch Affric & Loch Bein 'a Mheadhoin. Was it destiny that brought them together? Destiny is a mysterious thing. No, it wasn’t destiny, it was coffee! They first met when Roxy was working in a Starbucks at the side of the A12 and James stopped in to get a coffee on his way to somewhere. James ordered his coffee and thought how attractive Roxy was. She asked If he’d had a good day, and when his card was declined, she gave him a freebie coffee. While he’s sure she was just being polite he took that as a green light and would stop into Starbucks whenever he could in the hope that she was there. Not for free coffee again but to spend some time with this woman he was besotted with, intrigued by. Awww.❤️ Eventually he plucked up the courage to ask her on a date and was head over heels straight away. After a few very special dates, they knew they had something very special. And all that brought them here, to this special place and proclaim their love for each other. And it too was beautiful. ❤️👏 Loch Affric is one of two large lochs within Glen Affric. Further up the glen is Loch Beinn a' Mheadhoin and much of the area around the lochs is mountainous. Rare wildlife live in the nature reserve including pine marten, Scottish wildcat, otter, red squirrel and golden eagle.
Cannot recommend Neil enough! From start to finish he was a pleasure to deal with and kept us right every step of the way in planning our wedding. Like so many others our original wedding plans changed due to Covid and Neil was so helpful, kind and accommodating during a stressful time. We were delighted with our ceremony- warm, funny and personal - and Neil captured everything we wanted to say. Thank you!
a north coast beach wedding...white sand & turquoise sea - and loadsa love!
17 August 2020 - Oldshoremore beach - Andrea & Graham
way up north yesterday, through the beautiful county of Sutherland to the tiny hamlet of Oldshoremore beach to meet and marry a lovely couple, Andrea Ďuricová & Graham Bradshaw, two people so right for each other and so much in love. Days like these are so special. Congratulations Mr & Mrs Bradshaw. ❤️
Just had an amazing wedding on a secluded beach in the north of Scotland with Neil. It really couldn’t have gone any better. After rescheduling due to Covid, we had great weather in an absolutely fantastic location. Neil made the ceremony entertaining, engaged many of the guests, brought along humour and some education too. Now, after tying the knot, I know where tying the knot comes from.
Nothings too much trouble for Neil and he accommodated everything we hoped for and more. I’ll definitely be contacting him for my next wedding 😬.
Highly recommended!
At last!!!
Laura & Scott - 15 August 2020 - Elgin
It's marvellous to be doing a wedding on a day like this...the sun is shining, ☀️ love is in the air .❤️ Laura and Scott are nuts about each other and REALLY wanted to have their wedding today. It was on, then off, then on again - and today - WE DID IT! 👏 As wee Blake said "Scott came to the right door that night - and he chose the right family to join" Awww
Neil conducted our wedding on Saturday. He was fantastic. Was a pleasure to have.
All of our friends and family commented on how good he was. He also added some humour to the service. Would highly recommend him. From the minute we met to talk about having a wedding to the minute he married us he was fantastic. Great at communicating and nothing we asked was ever to much hassle. Even tho Covid -19 stopped our original date he was happy to move and sort out a new one, to make sure we got there in the end.
Thanks Neil for everything xx
Paradise!
Linsey & Patrick - Scarista Beach, Isle of Harris 12 August 2020
what a simply beautiful place to be married. It's quiet, peaceful, romantic and awe-inspiring. Lynsey & Patrick decided it was the perfect place to pledge their love, devotion and commitment to each as life-long soul mates - and husband and wife. ❤️ And it was perfect as their wee Bella came along too. My Harris tweed woven by Shawbost Weavers of Lewis and kilt tailored by Braw Kilts of Edinburgh.
Neil married us on Scarista beach on the isle of Harris on 12th August. He was amazing with us throughout the whole process including our original date being postponed. Neil's communication is brilliant!! Also a special mention to Neil's wife Ann who assisted me down to the beach and of course the beautiful Tanni who was oh so patient with our daughter Bella. I wish we could do it all again! It was an emotional day (in the best way!) and with plenty of belly laughs. Thank you again Neil!! Best wishes from The Bonthrones xx
A deserted, heart-shaped island!
Claudia & Jim - Eynhallow island, Orkney 9 August 2020
well what a day of firsts...my first wedding in the Orkney isles, the first wedding in over 150 years on the island of Eynhallow, the first time I've married a member of the House of Lords. We sailed across in a beautiful charter boat, spotted a huge variety of birdlife on the way over and a couple of seals too. Eynhallow, a magical, mystical heart shaped island just a few hundred yards off the main island. And we stood in the ruins of a 12th century monastery for the ceremony. Eynhallow was believed to be the summer residence of the shape-shifting mer-people. There are wild tales of humans being stolen away here into marital servitude. And yet, willingly today, Claudia and Jim stood before us to exchange their marital vows and declare their love for eternity. This was the first Orkney island that they visited together and today we gathered to witness their marriage with just a few family and friends. Followed by a sumptious picnic. And it was all beautiful. ❤️ Orkney - what a fantastic place to have your wedding. There was even a petrel chick on a nest on the walls above us - (not noticed until we finished but undisturbed). Congratulations Lord & Lady Knight!
back in the mountains
Jenna & Stuart - Glencoe 6 August 2020
back to that historic place that is Glencoe today, for a wedding in the sunshine of Jenna & Stuart. An American and a Kiwi, meeting in London- quite the epic trek to find each other! ☺ They found a kindred spirit and charmed each other on a hot London summers’ night - and since then have slowly written their own love story. They even endured the challenges of the last months during the COVID lockdown….24 hours a day ☺ A true test for any relationship! Congratulations! You are now married!❤️ (Tanni stealing the limelight yet again.🙄)
Neil conducted our ceremony in Glencoe last week and we are so grateful we chose him! It was the day we dreamed of and his words and the way he conducted the ceremony was perfection. We contacted him during COVID when we decided to elope, and he was so personable, helpful, and genuinely interested in crafting the perfect day for us. He was well respected and recommended by all who worked with him for his professionalism, and after working with him, we couldn't agree more! He helped us with so many details like picking the right location (and re-routing when we ran into unexpected traffic the day of!), helping my husband find a kilt maker, and even had a spare quaich cup when we forgot ours at the hotel. He also really helped us think through our ceremony, what was important to us, and helped us connect to the soul and purpose of the day amongst the swirling logistics of coordinating a wedding. I am so grateful we chose him, and it was an honor to have him (and his dog Tanni! ) with us on our wedding day. No hesitations, recommend booking him and working with him wholeheartedly. Thank you Neil Lynch and @tannitheweddingdogdiva""
L'amour Love L'amour
7 March 2020 Signal Rock, Glencoe
VERY wet, VERY windy for a wedding at Signal Rock lochan this morning. No options...weather forecast was wet, wetter and wet wet wet ALL day. But nothing could dampen the love ❤️and spirit of Claire & Harry who travelled from near Nantes in France looking for the young good looking humanist celebrant they'd seen in wedding pictures from a couple of years ago to conduct their ceremony. 😉 Happy in love, drenched to the skin but fortified with a marriage of French and Welsh (?!?!) wines in their quaich ceremony, it was indeed a memorable day! Even Tanni had to wear a raincoat today! 🐶💨💦
We chose Neil to be our celebrant over 3 years prior to being married by him, And we felt truly honoured to have him!Our plans were constantly changing and Neil took it all with patience, good humour and warmth. Really I feel like we’ve come on a journey with a trusty guide and his faithful sidekick, the ever adorable Tanni. Anytime we had any doubts or queries he was there to re-assure us, his replies were very quick and positive. He was able to give us very helpful advice with his lifetime of experiences all over Scotland. Claire my loving partner and now loving wife is partially deaf, Neil always made a great effort to make sure he spoke clearly and whilst facing Claire so she could lip read. He's very considerate and you could see he wanted to make our day meaningful for us. He has a wealth of information on the history of marriage and customs around the world which helped give perspective on our choices. When our wedding day turned out to be the wettest and windiest in recent Scottish history, he took it all in his stride with a smile.I’m looking forward to seeing the future couples lucky enough to have him as their celebrant!
Love wins!
29 February 2020 at The 8 Acrs Hotel, Elgin
Life has been difficult for them both at times, but now they are together, life is good. And for Christopher, having Katie by his side is the best feeling ever - and now he’s getting to marry her! Love wins. ❤️
From 1st Meeting Neil we knew straight away we wanted him to Marry us! He was a bit of us as they say! He made us feel at ease with every stage, kept us updated on what we needed to do.
When it came to our day I was mega nervous but Neil managed to calm me down and reassure me. Our Ceremony was so special with the added humour that all our guests loved! He made us feel amazing and I could never thank him enough!
Neil your an amazing man and I wish you all the best!
The new Mr and Mrs Snedden-Murdoch x
Mum made the Groom's kilt - the Bride's dress was stunning too!
23 February 2020 at Stotfield Hotel, Lossiemouth
Claire & Blair...both slightly nervous, a few anxious tears but loadsa love at their wedding today...their Unity Sand Vase was particularly special with all the kids participating. Laughs, smiles, giggles, joy and lots more love. These are the days I love more and more. Congratulations Mr & Mrs Leslie! ❤️
Would highly recommend Neil for a Humanist wedding. He helped us every step of the way and helped make our wedding special with his unique ceremony, full of laughter, memories and the involvement of our families and the children. His ceremony was perfect and we couldn't of asked for more 🙂
I would recommend any bride & groom looking for a humanist celebrant to book their day with Neil. He helped make my son & daughter-in-law s wedding day yesterday extra special with a very beautiful & unique ceremony very personal to them their family & friends who were in attendance. The professional but relaxed atmosphere was filled with love & happiness & the speech Neil gave was moving, funny & all about the two most important people, the Bride & Groom. Including all the children at the wedding by taking part in the coloured sand ceremony added a very special element.
At last!
3 February 2020 at The Vu, Bathgate
Nikki and Drew FINALLY tied the knot yesterday...after 20 years!...a fun couple but crazy as frogs, 🐸they laughed and laughed and laughed. But their deep love was so evident and I was honoured to play a small part in their big day. And we finished off by singing Abba's Dancing Queen...their song. ❤️ Congratulations Mr & Mrs Russell. 🥰 — at The Vu.
Couldn’t ask for more! My introduction to Neil was met with a firm handshake and an immediate sense of ease. He was an absolute superstar and totally professional and in control.
I would highly recommend not reading the final draft of what Neil composes for you on your special day. Trust me. Both my wife and I were hanging on every word he said and our guests were totally captivated. Very funny, proper laugh out loud moments, poignant, thoughtful and the whole service summed up the two of us perfectly.
We cannot recommend Neil highly enough. So many guests complimented the ceremony and we are so thankful to him for making our perfect day even more memorable.
Best wishes always Neil
Mr & Mrs Russell
the morning after...
13 October 2019 - Dundee
the morning after...😂 I think you can say that Becky & Steven's wedding was a blast!
Becky & Steven & baby Luna too!
12 October 2019 - Dundee
A double celebration here today....a wedding for local couple Becky & Steven... followed by a naming ceremony for their gorgeous wee girl Luna! How much love can you pack in to one day?! There was some pre-wedding anxiety and nervous excitement from a certain lady in white but all disappeared in a flash once we began the ceremony. A few minutes in and little Luna stole the show, by innocently strolling up the aisle, completely lost in a world of her own. She was SO cute! ♥️ Once the newly-weds had completed their nuptials, it was Luna's turn to star as we immediately followed on with her naming ceremony. Becky and Steven chose the name Luna as it represents the moon and she shines the brightest in their lives. It’s simply a beautiful name for a beautiful baby. And Luna’s middle name Anne is in honour of Becky's gran who sadly isn't here anymore.
May the raindrops fall gently on your brow
May the soft winds freshen your spring
May the sunshine brighten your heart
May the burdens of the day rest lightly on you
And may you always be enfolded in a mantle of love
Welcome to the world and to our lives Luna. ♥️.
This was THE moment from yesterday's wedding...baby Luna walking up the aisle to mummy & daddy Becky & Steven. SO wish I had the presence of mind to take her picture from the top of the aisle.
Lauren & Doug exchange their vows at Sligachan,
9 October 2019 - Isle of Skye
Hi Neil, I hope that you are well. I just wanted to reach out to you and thank you again for performing our wedding ceremony. It was a truly magical day for us and so many of our friends and family complimented you for how personal and touching the ceremony was. It would not have been the same without you and Tanni. We recently received our photos from Dylan and looking at them brought back all of the amazing memories from the ceremony. We wanted to share them with you and thank you again for being our celebrant! Lauren & Doug
http://www.laurenanddoug.com © Dylan Kitchener
Jessie & Mark marry at Sligachan
7 October 2019 - Isle of Skye
Neil: The ceremony was perfect. Absolutely perfect. We enjoyed you so much and are so happy to have had the opportunity to work with you. Tanny was a doll and added her special touch to the photos. She is such a beautiful pup. Neil you gave us more than a perfect ceremony. You have have also introduced us Humanism and inspired us to learn more about the society here in North Carolina.
© Otago Street Collective
Chelsea & Matt, a beautiful wedding in the woods of a Scottish glen
25 September 2019 - Glen Etive, Glencoe
Glen Etive, a place of wonder and majesty, just the place for Chelsea & Matt from Austin in Texas to pledge their love and devotion to each other in their intimate wedding ceremony. And then, a wee picnic in the woodland too. As you do. You can do whatever you want in a Humanist wedding. ♥️🇺🇸
Congratulations to Jean@the littlewhitecow for the picnic styling and props, to Melanie at Briar Rose Design for the floral artwork and to byPlatter for the scrumptious food. To Kaco films for the video and Dylan@The Kitcheners for the photography. © Kaco films, © The Kitcheners
A magical place - and a fairytale too
28 August 2019 - The Quiraing, Isle of Skye
Alanna & Brianna...all the way from Janesville, Wisconsin, to Skye, to search for their perfect location, the Quiraing, to declare their love and devotion to each other...for eternity. Two individuals with but a single thought, two hearts that beat as one. LOVE wins.
A DOUBLE elopement wedding!! -
TWO SISTERS!
13 August 2019 - Kilberry, Argylleshire
off to Argyllshire for a double wedding elopement - TWO SISTERS! 😯...Nicola and Daryll followed by Angela and Brian, there in the sunshine 🌤they said their I DO's on the beach overlooking the isles of Islay and Jura...giggles, love and a few tears...😍
Thank you SO much for yesterday. It truly was a perfect day for us. Your script was exactly what we wanted and more. Nicola & Daryll
Two Mac's get together - a SuperMac!
10 August 2019 - Drumossie Hotel, Inverness
Adele MacPherson and Mark Mackenzie got married! They're both a bit weird at times, but they love it - and they make each other laugh all the time! A solid foundation for a lifelong love affair! Best wishes to you both! 💗
I just wanted to say a massive thank you from Mark and I. You made the whole process so easy for us, made us feel like we could get through it all - especially through the ceremony haha. Also for taking extra time to help my niece that meant a lot. We have had nothing but compliments about the ceremony -some people had never been to a humanist wedding before and loved it & some said it was the best they’ve ever been too! They said that you were fab and the way you delivered it made it so special. We totally agree. Thanks again for making our day so special. We definitely chose the best.
Adele & Mark
stunning venue for a stunning couple
7 August 2019 - Sligachan, Isle of Skye
The situations I get myself into for crazy photographers!!
😯🐶 But it was all good fun and such a pleasure to marry Jen & Mike from Boston US 🇺🇸, at this place, in the natural world, inspired by the rugged landscape and awe inspiring beauty, evoking wonder. We all have our own love stories. Some are short, others long. Some are yet unwritten, while others are just getting to the good part. There are chapters in all of our stories that are sad or disappointing — and others that are exciting and full of adventure. But today was quite simply all about their own love story. Smiles, laughs, happy tears of emotion...Congratulations Mr & Mrs Fanning. ♥️
All pictures & dodgy situations © Penny Hardie & Rosie Woodhouse
a little bit of oo-la-la...& amour!
4 August 2019 - Glencoe & Glen Etive
They say no-one does love & romance like the French...and no-one does weddings like HSS Celebrants...so bring them both together, Claire & Benoit from Sauchay near Dieppe and "moi"...and we have a typical Scottish wedding in the Glencoe/Glen Etive hills, with rain, midges, sunshine & rainbows, loads of l'amour & laughs, happy tears, readings in French...och!...we had it all! ♥️🇫🇷🏴 Vive la France! Vieille Alliance! Picture © Pernille Olgod
sunshine, a beach and LOADS of LOVE
22 June 2019 - East Beach, Lossiemouth
Louise & Andy on the east beach at Lossiemouth (they and the kids had the sand ceremony.) surrounded by family & friends and SO MUCH LOVE. Congratulations Lovers!💑♥️ Mrs & Mrs McBride
Myself and Louise had the absolute pleasure of having Neil marry us in the most beautiful of settings , Lossiemouth east beach . The settings were good but what actually made the day was this man's personal touch. I don’t think I have ever laughed so much with his constant interjections of comedy gold throughout the whole service .
The manner of his ceremony presentation was the talk of the hall in the after party .When I spoke of him at my speech and asked folk to join me in congratulating his performance, it was by far the loudest cheer of the night . Folk standing to clap .What a man , with his little four legged companion . I can say with my hand on my heart that this man made our big day so much more special than we could have even dreamed of . The personal touch from the ceremony right down to the sharing our love in a sand bottle . Everything was perfection locked in a bottle to keep .
If you’re thinking of getting hitched ? Hey, this man will make your day .
We can’t recommend him any more highly. Amazing man. Amazing day. Amazing memories to cherish. Andy
A massive thank you to Neil who conducted our service, it was just mind blowing and outstanding , just so so personal, I have never experienced such a service...you did amazingly, everyone was overwhelmed by it and it will never be forgotten. Louise.
Nafez & David...just two guys in love
The Highland Club, Fort Augustus 21 June 2019
Nafez and David came all the way from Australia with daughter Zara to declare their love of one another in one of the most spectacular settings I have had the pleasure to visit, The Highland Club, formerly a Benedictine monastery at Fort Augustus. A beautifully devoted couple, so much in love. Two people in love is all that matters. ♥️ Husbands, soulmates and together forever.
Thank you so much for an amazing ceremony and sharing this special day with us Neil. When we finally met in person we all felt so comfortable, it was like catching up with an old friend. Neil is an amazing Humanist Celebrent. We come all the way from Melbourne Australia to get married on the shores of Loch Ness in Fort Augustus and so the contact with him leading up to the wedding was a couple of FaceTime calls and a lot of emails. But he made us feel so comfortable with everything he did. His professionalism, his sense of humour and the way he cared about our day made it an amazing experience and one we will never forget.
Thank you so much for being our celebrant.
Fort Augustus Abbey, properly St. Benedict's Abbey, at Fort Augustus, was a monastery, from late in the nineteenth century to 1998. It owed its inception to the desire of John Crichton-Stuart, 3rd Marquess of Bute, for the restoration of monasticism in Scotland. The marquess brought the matter before the superiors of the Anglo-Benedictine Congregation in 1874, promising substantial pecuniary help in the establishment of a house in Scotland, with the understanding that when two other monasteries should have been founded they should all form a separate Scottish congregation. The suggestion was approved of, and the Anglo-Benedictine authorities resolved to incorporate with the Scottish monastery Lamspringe Abbey, in Hanover, which was manned by English monks from 1645 to 1803. Inadequacy of funds had prevented any lasting restoration of this house, but with the help promised by Lord Bute, it seemed possible to revive it in Scotland. Dom Jerome Vaughan, a brother of Cardinal Vaughan, was appointed to superintend the work, and succeeded in collecting from rich and poor in England, Scotland, and Ireland, sufficient means for the erection of a fine monastery a cost of some £70,000. The site at Fort Augustus was given by Simon Fraser, 13th Lord Lovat. It comprised the buildings of a dismantled fort, built in 1729 and originally erected for the suppression of Highland Jacobites. It had been purchased from the Government by the Lovat family, in 1867. The monastic buildings begun in 1876 were completed in 1880, occupying the four sides of a quadrangle about one hundred feet square. In one wing a school for boys of the upper classes was conducted by the monks, with lay masters, for about sixteen years. © WikipediA
All the way from Australia to the Scottish glens
19 June 2019 - Glencoe
Tanni 🐶meets Tahnee 👰🏼in the Hidden Valley for an elopement wedding. (Tomi 🎩came too!) They came all the way from Queensland, Australia. Daughter Mishka tied the handfasting and the couple read lovely, intimate vows of commitment to each other. Spectacular place for Tahnee & Tomi to have their nuptials, congratulations Mr & Mrs Rooney!
Thanks again for everything Neil, yesterday was the most incredible, beautiful day and we couldn't be happier to have been wedded by you 😁https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=630UX6uCyHU
a Scottish castle wedding for Sarah & Kris
4 June 2019 at Logie Country House
first visit to Logie Country House for me today, a Scottish Castle and Estate dating back to 1492. Here to meet Cupid and conduct the wedding of Sarah, a local Aberdeen quine and her beau, Kristopher, from Glasgow. The weather fairies 🧚♀️were kind as the rain 🌦stopped 10 minutes before the start time. Sarah was ready to go, cool and relaxed, as Kristopher stood nervously at the alloted spot in the inner courtyard. Just 20 minutes later, before the rain came on again, after big laughs and a few happy tears during the vows, they were Mr & Mrs Wesencraft. Evereybody say Aawww! 😍 F-A-B-U-L-O-U-S...Best dress of the year for Sarah!
The House, built in 1680, is set at the foot of Bennachie, overlooking the river Urie, which runs across the front lawn. It is surrounded by fields and woodland which are frequented by Deer, Otters, Red squirrels and Owls. The house and new purpose built ballroom are available as an exclusive use wedding venue. The house has an indoor infinity pool, two kitchens, thirteen bedrooms (sleeping 30) and five entertaining rooms. Outside there is an inner and outer courtyard, two hot tubs and a private island. Not a bad place for a wedding eh? Big thanks to Gillian & her team for making things go like clockwork.
Now that the dust has settled from the best few days of our lives we wanted to get in touch to pass on our heartfelt thanks and gratitude for making our wedding day so special. From the minute you arrived on Wednesday you were a very calming and reassuring presence (essential when it looked like the rain might ruin our plans!) The service itself was an absolute joy, I never expected to laugh so much at my own wedding but it was everything Sarah and I hoped that it would be - and some.
The feedback from our guests was outstanding - you clearly made a huge impression. Some of our older guests who had never been to a humanist wedding before were telling us it was by far the nicest and most touching wedding ceremony they had ever attended.
I still can’t believe how the weather turned out exactly at 2pm and from that moment on it was literally the perfect day for us. So thank you for all your time and efforts both in the run-up to the wedding and at the wedding itself.
We would like to wish you continued health, happiness and success in the future and we hope that we might have the opportunity to cross paths again in future, ideally at one of our friends’ weddings! Sarah & Kris
love, laughter and the biggest smiles!.
25 May 2019 Bachilton Barn, Perth
First time here...A nice rural setting for the wedding of Lisa & Phil...and they did their I DO’s with much laughter, fun and happy tears!💗
Neil was absolutely fantastic with my husband and I from the moment we had an initial call with him right up until our wedding day.
He helped guide us towards creating a service that was truly unique to us and every single one of our guests commented how lovely the service was. Neil managed to find the perfect balance of humour and compassion on our wedding day - something I imagine he balances on the advice of the couple! - and he (and Tanni!) were fantastic.
He kept us right, kept us calm on the day, and was a genuinely lovely person to work with. Thank you Neil , LISA & PHIL
a fairytale wedding with style & panache'
23 May 2019 - Achnagairn, Inverness
back again at the beautiful wedding venue of Achnagairn to marry a cool, calm and collected couple, Sandie & Ross from Longside in Aberdeenshire. The whole shebang was organised by the groom and he did well with his spreadsheets! And Sandie blew everyone away with her stunning dress! Lots of love & congratulations Mr & Mrs MacDonald! 😍
Neil was the celebrant for our wedding. He was an absolute delight to deal with from the very start. Totally took on board everything we asked for and delivered a ceremony that was both personal and humourous. Every guest commented on how good it was and that they're definitely going Humanist for any future event. 10/10 would recommend Neil again.
SANDIE & ROSS
Natalie & Scott say their "I DO's"
18 May 2019 - The Lodge on Loch Lomond
Natalie & Scott got married today...hooray!....in a lovely venue with family & friends in a relaxed and loving ceremony. Congratulations Mr & Mrs Allan! ❤️
Hi Neil, just a message to say thank you so much for Saturday. The ceremony was perfect, everyone was complementing us on how lovely it was and how great you were! 😊 Thank you for all your help and guidance over the past few months!
From the moment we booked our ceremony with Neil he was always on hand to guide us and answer any questions we had. Our ceremony was absolutely perfect and so personal to us. Our guests absolutely loved it, we got lots of compliments! Natalie & Scott
and I promise to love, honour and save you from spiders!
15 May, 2019 - Fairy Glen, Isle of Skye
all the way from Australia to the remnants of Castle Ewen at Fairy Glen, Uig, Isle of Skye for Jackie & Josh today...to pledge their love and commitment to each other in marriage...and for Josh to promise to protect Jackie from spiders!...as well as love her forever too of course!❤️
Josh and I just wanted to say a very big thank you for everything you did on our wedding day! It was an amazing experience having you marry us, and a very Scottish one at that! Everyone commented that you were absolutely perfect, just that nice balance between funny and emotional, which suited us just right. We really appreciate everything you’ve helped us with in the preparation, and for your amazing communication throughout the whole process. I know Josh particularly appreciated the chat you had with him before the ceremony, as it helped calm him down a little. We couldn’t have asked for a better person to marry us!
a romantic castle in the highlands
4 May 2019 - Eilean Donan castle
And a wee toddle up the road, for wedding #2, to this incredible place, so romantic, just perfect for the wedding 👰🏼 🎩 of Claire and Marton Botos, in the presence of close family and with a secret and surprise ceremony script...and they loved it!💕 a few laughs and a few happy tears too as they delivered their very special vows to each other.💗 And in a change of custom, Marton is taking Claire's surname in marriage! Good man!
Neil was articulate, funny and warm. No question was to silly to ask and he helped us with little things like finding a local piper. He is a complete encyclopaedia of who can do what and where in Scottish weddings.
We are a really laid back couple. We did the homework which Neil set (few questions about us) and left rest up to a complete professional. We asked for the service to be kept a surprise for us too and we were not disappointed. Neil created a complete bespoke service will laughter & tears joy along the way. We can not recommend Neil enough.
Neil it was the most special and amazing ceremony. Your warmth & wit shone through. Many thanks for sharing our most beautiful moment Claire & Marton
Jen & Andrew - they did it their way, with unique & imaginative inclusions
26 April 2019 - Airth Castle
so Jen & Andrew had their nuptials today, at Airth Castle. One of their bridesmaids today, Claire, was married by me last year - and Jen was one of Claire's bridesmaids then. And having seen Tanni's presence, Jen and Andrew wanted her on the guest list today too. The Diva 🐶duly obliged and sat quietly through the secret & surprise ceremony script. A couple of imaginative inclusions at the beginning and end of the ceremony, lots of laughs and a few happy tears too for this lovely couple. Two people so delightfully suited to one another, they have a connection. Congratulations Mr & Mrs Jude. Live long & love lots. ❤️
Thank you so much for delivering what we can only describe as the most perfect ceremony for us. You got to know me and Andrew and every word you said was perfect. We got so many compliments about the ceremony and how it was personal and also funny. We are so happy we found you and also that Tanni got to be there. Thank you again for being part of our special day. Love Jen & Andrew x
happiest bride ever!
19 April 2019 - Loch Coruisk, Isle of Skye
The sun shone, the dolphins played ahead of the boat on our way across, Rebecca & Craig laughed, smiled and showed that THIS day was all about THEM. They were eloping to be married in a loving, personal ceremony, just the two of them. They were both so happy to do things their way with a surprise script which kept them laughing all the way through the ceremony. And they showed just how much love they shared with hugs, kisses & lots of cuddles. 💞 Congratulations Mr & Mrs Lees - live long & love lots. ❤️
We were so lucky to have Neil as our Humanist Celebrant at our elopement wedding on Friday. From the first time we contacted him he was so helpful and friendly. We met up with him a few months before and we felt so comfortable around him and knew instantly that we had made the perfect choice for our wedding. On the day we chose to keep our script a surprise and we honestly laughed the whole way through, it was so personal and you would have thought Neil had known us for years which was so lovely. We would highly recommend Neil to anyone and can not thank him enough for everything! Tanni was also the perfect guest. THANK YOU X.
a wild and windy place, but Fairy Glen has magic too...and love for Kat & Al
15 April 2019 - Fairy Glen, Isle of Skye
Katrina and Alistair from Chicago had their nuptials at the top of a hill in the glen today, this magical, almost mystical place. Chilly it was, breezy it was, lovely 💕 it was too! Now husband and wife and soulmates for life! ❤️ Neil hasn’t married us yet, but he’s been an absolute rock during the process. It’s so helpful having someone guide you through. He’s incredibly responsive and will explain all your questions as best he can. Amazing service so far.
Neil was great! He walked us through everything before and it was smooth and lovely.
Nurses and Doctors - but they're in love, not playing games - Victoria & Avi
10 April 2019 - Fenwick
a particularly unique wedding on Wednesday, at the Fenwick Hotel, Fenwick, Kilmarnock, where sweethearts Victoria and Avichal pledged their love in a ceremony with just close family members. Intimate, personal and meaningful, it had the lot. They met on the hospital ward where nurse Victoria showed Dr Avi from day 1 how helpful nurses could be! ❤️
We would both like to give a huge thank you again for your help with our wedding. From the first contact you really put our minds at ease. It was also great to meet you in person before hand. Your flexibility with things was much appreciated and we felt it really helped us all have a lovely day.
love, laughter and happy tears from both of them!
23 March 2019 - Kingsmills Hotel, Inverness
Chevonne & James pledged their love and commitment to each other surrounded by friends and family. Chevonne wore a beautiful dress, James cool as cucumber but both had stars in their eyes as they celebrated their love on the happiest day of their life.
"May the love and happiness you feel today shine through the years."
Neil conducted our wedding ceremony last weekend and we have had so many compliments for him from friends and family who were there. He set the tone for a lovely relaxed ceremony and put everyone at ease. I would definetly choose him for my next wedding 😜. 10/10 Neil Thankyou for everything.
x Chevonne
a special day in a special place for a special couple
Dominique & Lee seal their love & commitment at Arnisdale, Glenelg 19 January 2019
idyllic, isolated and tranquil...what a place to declare your love and commitment to each other, on the shores of a loch with surrounding majestic hills as a backdrop. That's what Dominique & Lee from Manchester did today...just the two of them. They read their self composed and intimate vows to each other, shed an emotional tear or two and held each other close. Love. ❤️
Hi Neil
Steph and Chris marry in beautiful Argyleshire
01 January 2019 - Crear beach, Kilberry
a wondferful wedding today, on the first day of the new year, in glorious sunshine on Crear beach, as we looked out over the sea towards the islands of Islay and Jura. It was here that a couple, so much in love and so right for each other said their passionate and romantic self composed vows to each other in marriage. But it's the proposal that was extra special, almost 2 years ago.
Steph & Chris, snuggled around little Esme, reading one of her favourites, ‘You Choose’. A book they’ve read countless times and know off by heart. However, that night, on the final page, there was something different. As they scanned a series of illustrations of various beds, all had to ‘choose’ the one each would like best.
Rather disappointedly, Esme declared, “Where’s the lady gone?” as she pointed at her favourite blue four-poster. “That’s weird,” Steph added, “I don’t remember a family in that bed….” Then she read what the rather handsome chap in the bed was saying, “Will you marry me? You choose!”
It must have felt like a lifetime for Chris, waiting for Steph to catch on. In her defense, how could she have guessed that Chris would have contacted the illustrator of the book to personally draw the little family of three snuggled up in that bed. After much disbelief, Chris produced the most perfect ring. One he had designed himself, taking inspiration from Steph's little quirks – bumblebees and love hearts included. Of course Steph agreed - and all that brought them both to this special time and place today. Romantic? 10/10!
Neil’s attentive approach to crafting a personalised and memorable ceremony for our wedding made our day a uniquely special occasion. My new wife and I can’t thank him enough for helping to ensure we never forget just how amazing our wedding day was. Steph & Chris
Nikki & Tam declare their love for each other in a wonderfully personal vow recitation.
21 December 2018 - The Vu, Bathgate
here we are again, back at this special place for the wedding of two special people....Nikki & Tam from Glasgow. Lots of beautiful bridesmaids, lots of laughs, lots of kids, their wee girl Robyn was a star, and sister of the bride Debbie delivered a wonderful poem for the couple. Despite the adverse weather outside, the joy inside the venue was palpable, especially when the couple read their own, self composed vows to each other. ❤️🥰 Love, love love. Congratulations Mr & Mrs McCulloch.
We chose Neil as our Celebrant for our wedding, we were so glad that we did! To say Neil was brilliant is an understatement. He brought our ceremony to life in a way that we had never imagined. We chose to let Neil write the script based on our ‘homework’ that he gave us, that was to tell our story and to give some information about us. We wanted to keep it a surprise and hear it for the first time on the day, we are so pleased we did it this way. Everyone was beaming, we laughed, we shed a tear or two and there was a tangible warmth in the room. Our ceremony was easily our favourite part of the whole day and this was unexpected. We thought it would be nice, we didn’t know we’d feel the way we did about it afterwards and not just us, our family and friends commented that it was the best ceremony they’d ever been a part of, that it was so personal, lovely and that they felt they really got to know our story from the beginning, all credit for that goes to Neil. Our wedding day memories will last a lifetime and we feel very lucky to have found Neil to be our Celebrant. A completely different level from the norm and an absolutely lovely, warm person. Nikki & Thomas McCulloch
Fairy Glen...a mysterious almost magical place for Jamie & Kent to tie the knot
27 November 2018 - Isle of Skye
a breezy and decidely chilly location today for the wedding ceremony of Jaime & Kent from Walnut Creek, California. The weather did not deter them though as the hugged each other in the wind, looked adoringly at each other and exchanged knowing glances throughout the ceremony. The Eskimo has fifty-two names for snow because it is important to them; there ought to be as many for love. ❤️
Neil, we were so glad for you to be part of our special day and honoured to be wed in your beautiful country. We will cherish our memories of you and your country for years to come...until we return!!!
Jaime & Kent
Holly & Lee, love, laughter and a couple of Doodles.
20 November 2018 - Thainstone House
and to Inverurie, to the Thainstome House Hotel, for the wedding of local couple from Elgin, Holly & Lee. They tied the handfasting knot using family tartans and sprinkled water from Findhorn (where Lee proposed) and the river Lossie in Elgin over the knot. Lots of love and laughter during the ceremony from their guests. They even brought their two doodles with them, appropriately dressed in floral collars. Nice. 😊🐕
Live long and love lots Mr & Mrs Stephen! Congratulations.
Thank you very much Neil, you were excellent. You made it a lot easier for me also, kept me calm and very accommodating. All the best and I will see you again some day, cheers.
Lee Stephen
Rafaela & Angus...Brazil & Scotland...two great footballing nations get together...;-)
17 November 2018 - Pittodrie House, Pitcaple
bem vindo a Escócia to Rafaela & Angus, to Pittodrie House Hotel at Pitcaple, where we gathered to witness and celebrate the marriage of Rafa and Gus following their wedding in Brazil. Much love, 😍 much joy, much happiness for this lovely couple. They just fit together, like pieces of a jigsaw. And they had an unconventional quaich toast to each other - with yoghurt! 😯 They do things differently in Brazil! viver muito e amar muito (live long & love lots).🇧🇷️❤️🏴
Neil, We thought choosing a Humanist wouild be a difficult, time consuming task but as soon as we saw your photos and read your website - we were taken. You always had a smile on your face and kind words to offer. We wanted nothing more. Our ceremony was something straight out of our dreams, so full of love! You tailored every little bit around us and made us feel exactly the way we wanted to; free from pressure and comfortable. The moment was about nothing but what we felt for each other. Words will never be enough to thank you for everything, so please be assured that the ceremony which you conducted will live forever in our memories, always accompanied by a smile. We couldn’t have chosen a better celebrant! What a beautiful ceremony it was. Thank you and obrigada a million times for everything. Rafaela & Angus
Brig o Doon House
12 October 2018 - Lynsey & Ian
Lovely place for a wedding...👰🏼🎩❤️...the wedding of a lovely couple, Lynsey & Ian.. He was a bit nervous, she giggled throughout the ceremony...plenty laughs together, but the deep love they have for each other was evident. Congratulations Mr & Mrs Stewart. Enjoy the honeymoon in Mauritius! Set along the banks of the River Doon and across from the Burns Memorial Gardens, this tranquil hotel in an ivy-covered house is a 6-minute walk from the Robert Burns Birthplace Museum. Situated within an area of outstanding natural beauty, Brig o’ Doon House Hotel offers a sumptuous and relaxing retreat in the midst of historical Ayrshire, the very birthplace of Scotland’s National Bard, Robert Burns. The bridge is located near Alloway and crosses the River Doon. It is a single Arched Bridge, with a steeply humped span of 72 feet (22 m) and a rise of 26 ft (7.9 m). It has been repaired many times, most recently in 1978, and many parts of the stonework do not match. The Brig o' Doon, sometimes called the Auld Brig or Old Bridge of Doon, is a late medieval bridge in Ayrshire, Scotland, and a Category A structure. The B7024 public road is carried over the River Doon New Bridge of Doon, a single-arch stone bridge built downstream of the old one in 1816 to cope with increasing traffic.The old bridge was sold to the builders of the new bridge as a quarry for material, but money was raised to purchase the old bridge back, and the trustees of the new bridge decided to quarry somewhere else.The bridge is thought to have been built in the early fifteenth century. According to John R. Hume, the bridge was built by James Kennedy, who died in 1465, but the first recorded mention was in 1512. The bridge was described as "ruinous" in 1593. The bridge features on the 2007 series of £5 notes issued by the Bank of Scotland, alongside the statue to Robert Burns, that is located in Dumfries.
"Thank you so much for Friday, the ceremony was perfect from start to finish and lots of people asked me where I found you! It was fabulous and couldn’t thank you enough! " Lynsey Stewart
GG's Yard, Gatehouse of Fleet
6 October 2018 Kath & Jason tie the knot
back down south, to Dumfriesshire and GG's Yard again at Laggan Gatehouse of Fleet. Love this place, great place for a wedding, Vicki, her mum Jackie and the staff so helpful and welcoming. And today it was Kath and Jason who tied the knot there and are now the new Mr & Mrs Jootun. Congratulations!
"From the first Skype conversation with Neil we knew we had chosen a great celebrant for our wedding. Neil is funny, warm and made us feel really relaxed about the whole process of writing our own ceremony which could have been daunting. Neil created a beautiful ceremony for us that was so personal. All our guests commented on how lovely it was and how great it was that Neil had clearly taken the time to get to know us as a couple. The whole ceremony captured exactly what was important and we enjoyed every second, every word meant something to us. Thank you so much Neil."
The Principal, Edinburgh
5 October 2018 Claire & James
so today, I'm back in my home town, Scotland's capital city, Edinburgh, at the Principal Hotel on George Street (formerly the George Hotel) for the wedding of local couple Claire & James. 💘But before we begin...do you have the Schedule James?...🤔erm, no, Claire has it. Ok. Do you have the schedule Claire...erm, 🤔no, James has it. No he has not!...Oops, they say, it's back home! 40 minute taxi ride each way for the groom! Just so many things to remember, so many things. But we got it together, got the show on the road. They were both a wee bit emotional during the ceremony but both loved it! And were happy as ever afterwards. 🤗Problems?...no, no problem, we're flexible, we're adaptable. But...DON"T FORGET THE MARRIAGE SCHEDULE! 😳 Congratulations Mr & Mrs Mackenzie. 👩❤️👨
The Principal Edinburgh George Street is a historic hotel, known for over 100 years as The George Hotel, located at 19–21 George Street in Edinburgh. The five townhouses on George Street that make up the hotel's historic core, Nos. 15-25, were constructed around 1780 as part of Edinburgh's New Town, to designs by John Young. They are now a category A listed building. In 1840, No. 19 George Street was remodeled by architect David Bryce, as the headquarters of the Caledonian Insurance Company. It is today the hotel's main entrance. For the past 200 years the property has been a prestigious address. In Georgian times the poet Robert Burns paid many visits to No. 25, as did the author Sir Walter Scott. In more modern times celebrities such as Elizabeth Taylor, Omar Sharif, Jack Lemmon and Kylie Minogue have visited. And today, Tanni and I were made to feel very welcome by the staff - big shout out to Derek Christie Photography, great to work with, I'm looking forward to his official photographs.
"Thank you so much to Neil Lynch for being part of our big day. You are one in a million, the service was stunning and the script you put together was beautiful we couldn’t have asked for more. Loved having Tanni there also such a lovely dog we are chuffed to bits she was part of our special day also. I literally can’t wait to watch it back when we get our wedding videos in. Highly recommended Neil to anyone getting married...I’ve already had people asking me for your details because of how amazing you were. We had a slight hiccup at the start when we left our marriage schedule at home so groom had to make a mad dash home for it- however Neil and Tanni kept everyone calm so many compliments about them! Thank you again🙌🏼❤️ lots of love Claire and Jamie xxx"
The Quiraing, Skye
4 October 2018 Kath & Brad
Kathryn McConnachie and Bradley from Johannesburg, South Africa swapped an African summer for a Scottish autumn/winter to marry at the Quiraing with family and friends. And the weather fairy was kind...the hailstones didn’t arrive until after they finished reading their beautiful, self composed, loving and at times humorous vows to each other. We had a few laughs, the diva Tanni was in her element. Thanks to Danny Birrell Photography and Alan MacKenzie, Skye piper. And congratulations to Mr & Mrs Stephenson.
If you're considering booking Neil as your celebrant - DO IT! We planned our elopement style wedding all the way from South Africa, and from my very first contact with Neil, he was incredibly friendly and helpful. He guided us through the process of getting married in Scotland and helped us immensely by putting us in touch with various suppliers. When we met him on the day, it felt like we already knew him. He was so calm and accommodating. His warmth and sense of humour were infused throughout the beautiful ceremony and set the tone for an incredible day. He helped us create something that was a genuine reflection of ourselves and our relationship. Our guests absolutely loved the whole experience. Neil, we can't thank you (and Tanni!) enough. You formed an integral part of what will be a most treasured memory for us and our families forever. Kath & Brad xx
Mansfield House, Elgin
28 September 2018 - Eilidh & Ross
For the wedding of local couple Eilidh & Ross .💗Their beautiful wee girl Bella almost stole the show but helped relax them both - she was a star! ⭐️ And the look on Eilidh’s face with the big quaich tease! Marvellous. 😆Congratulations Mr & Mrs Smith! Great to work with Nikki Morgan from Fledgling Photography again.
"We can not recommend Neil enough as a celebrant. He made both of us feel so relaxed and our ceremony was beautiful, funny and made to feel so personal. He is extremely professional and a genuinely lovely witty person. Thank you very much from Mr and Mrs Smith. X"
Innes House, Elgin
22 September 2018 - Victoria & Aaron
And yet more 💕 love at Innes House, for the wedding of Forres lovers Victoria & Aaron and where two hearts intertwine to become one. Stunning dress worn by Vicky who was a little nervous, both she and Aaron a wee bit emotional. To love and be loved is to feel the sun from both sides. Congratulations Mr & Mrs Mclellan !💘
"On behalf of my husband & I, we honestly can not recommend Neil enough, he was amazing from start to finish! It was an answer pleasure having Neil as our celebrant. We both turned up to the ceremony a nervous wreck & as soon as the ceremony started, he put us both at ease. Neil was an absolute dream to work with. The amount of praise I have had from everyone about the ceremony is unreal, that’s all down to you Neil! Thank you so much for everything, you really a star ⭐️"
Elgol in Skye...family love
17 September 2018 - Krista & Stephen - and baby Lucy too!
a little thatched cottage on the south west corner of Skye near Kilbride today, that's where I am...for the elopement wedding of Krista & Stephen, all the way from Alberta in Canada with beautiful baby Lucy. It may have been lashing rain and strong winds outside but the warmth of their love kept us all cosy today. It was going to be at Loch Coruisk...good decision to change the venue. Congratulations Mr & Mrs Kendell. 😍
"Neil was professional yet easy going and friendly. We felt like we’ve known him forever which made our day even more personal. It was a wonderful afternoon. Thank you Neil!"
Bogbain Farm, Inverness
9 September 2018 - keep it simple
for the wedding of Iona and Liam...a young couple so much in love, so devoted to each other and so looking forward to spending the rest of their life together. They asked Tanni 🐶to bring the rings forward, which she did perfectly...then checked out Liam in a rather personal way! "I'm a married man!" exclaimed Liam...😂Lots of laughs, loads of love, they're like two pieces of a jigsaw, they fit together perfectly. Congratulations Mr & Mrs Kay. A lovely couple. 😍
"Myself and my new hubby cannot recommend Neil enough, he was amazing from start to finish in planning our wedding vows. Neil is a wonderful man and so smart and in tune with others. We really felt he managed to draw out of us what was needed for our ceremony and he is a joy to work with. I wish Neil the best of luck in his job as a celebrant, he truly is amazing at what he does and feel honoured to have had him (and the adorable Tanni!) as part of our wedding. X"
The Barn at Barra Castle for the wedding of Amy & Jonny
18 August 2018 - Old Meldrum
Aberdeenshire today for the wedding of Amy & Jonny...to Barra Castle, an unusual L-plan tower house dating from the early 16th century, about two miles south of Oldmeldrum, above the Lochter Burn. It occupies the site of the Battle of Inverurie (1308), in which Robert Bruce defeated John Comyn, Earl of Buchan.
Husband and wife team David and Sarah Stephen (aka Sarah Mack, tv broadcaster & presenter) are behind the magic that happens at Barra Castle. It’s not all that unusual to have a bit of a gap between getting the keys to a new property and actually settling in, especially when there are a lot of outstanding repairs to be made. But it took fully seven years before Sarah and David could even think about moving into their new home in Aberdeenshire.Together they renovated their much-loved family home, the 16th century tower house Barra Castle, and now they are on a mission to share this unique setting with visitors and guests. And a perfect place for a wedding. Congratulations Mr & Mrs Hay!
"Hello Neil, Amy's mum here. Just want to say how fantastic the wedding ceremony was. Thank you so much! The day was wonderful from start to finish and the venue/location stunning. More importantly Amy and Jonny just radiated happiness. Many thanks. PS I remember you organising tennis tournaments at Elgin. Ros Wright."
Eloped all the way from Australia to Skye...
08 August 2018 - Flodigarry Hotel, Skye
For the wedding of Melissa and Allen, who have eloped from Australia, just the two of them. Allen had proposed at Edinburgh Castle in the most romantic way ever. Fortunately the rain stayed away long enough today, the midges too!...the sun shone and their love 💗 blossomed, illustrated by their deeply personal and self composed vows. Congratulations Mr & Mrs Mentiplay. 💕
The Flodigarry has been a hotel since 1928 and the famous sea view is almost endless towards the majestic Torridon mountains and is equally impressive towards the iconic Quiraing. Flodigarry is a scattered settlement on the north east side of the Trotternish peninsula on the island of Skye. The small island of Eilean Flodigarry lies less than 1 kilometre off the coast with Sgier na Éireann just beyond to the north east. In 1750 the Jacobite Flora MacDonald and her fiancé Allan MacDonald were married and lived in a cottage in Floddigarry. In 2008 the singer KT Tunstall was married at the Flodigarry Hotel which abuts the cottage.
"Neil was both professional and also personable , made myself and my now wife very relaxed during our ceremony but this was due to his commitment of keeping in touch for months prior to our secret elopement to the isle of Skye , the time he took and the little touches and advice he offered was second to none, Neil was simply amazing and made our special day the best day ever, thank you Neil from both myself and Melissa"
my good friends are now married!
04 August 2018 - Eight Acres Hotel, Elgin
A short trip for today’s wedding of Jessica & Kevin. And what a wedding it was!... with so many loving family & friends. Jessica and Kevin really illustrated their love for one another in a deeply personal and meaningful ceremony, a few laughs - and some tears too - and particularly intimate vows which they composed themselves and said to each other (oops! ...sorry Jess 😉). It was a joy to see their happiness combined with their love for each other and to contribute in a small way to their big day. Congratulations Mr & Mrs Stuart Btw - what a dress !...stunning!
Neil, Thank you again for an amazing ceremony, and for hosting the day - you were brilliant. Every single person there said what a beautiful service it was and we couldn’t agree more. Jessica & Kevin
With the kind permission of the couple I have reproduced their self-composed vows here, to illustrate how original and personal they can be;
"Today, I Kevin promise you, Jessica, that I will laugh with you (my favourite comedian) cherish your smile and kindness.
Comfort your occasional vulnerability and support your determination and passion that runs within you each day. I promise I will try to support our family with you, in a house filled with laughter, patience, understanding, compassion and love. Let us be partners, best friends, and lovers, today and all of the days that follow.
I vow not just to grow old together, but to grow together. I can't wait to live our journey. I will love you faithfully through the difficult and the easy. After all
I belong with you,
you belong with me,
you're my sweetheart
I Kevin accept you Jessica in marriage to be my legally wedded wife."
"Today, I Jessica, promise you Kevin that I will love you faithfully and honestly through all of the good times and the bad, forever and always.
You love me on the days when I forget to love myself and you support me in everything I choose to do. I promise to always listen to your advice, occasionally take it and never take you for granted. I will always be here for you when you need me, I will encourage and of course challenge you.
I will do my best to be patient and forgiving and I’ll say sorry more, even though I’m always right. I’ll never stop trying to make you happy and I look forward to a life filled with friendship, love and laughter, with you as my handsome husband.
I Jessica accept you Kevin in marriage to be my legally wedded husband."
the place where Royalty have been frequent visitors....
28 July 2018 - Innes House, Elgin
For the wedding of Anna & Fraser...second wedding of the day. Fraser asked her out on their first date with a chocolate love heart from Thornton’s. She couldn’t resist! (I’m not sure if it was Fraser or the chocolate heart she couldn’t resist!) All in all a wonderfully loving and family day in the spectacular setting of Innes House...the rain eased, Anna was stunning in her Vera Wang dress, Fraser was cool as a cucumber. The extensive walled garden and the house are magnificent settings and provide a romantic background for any wedding. And Mark Tennant, of the occupying family, even piped the couple back up the aisle after the ceremony. Big thanks to Jane, their wedding coordinator - she's just great to work with. Congratulations Mr & Mrs Strachan!
Innes House was built by Sir Robert Innes between 1640 - 1651 and was the home of the Innes family until 1767 when Sir James Innes went bankrupt and sold the estate to the 2nd Earl of Fife - who spent a great deal of money on the house and estate and planted many of the superb trees which are in the parkland today. At the beginning of the last century the house was bought by Francis and Annie Tennant who considerably enlarged and modernised the house. Francis was the second son of the first Lord Glenconner whose grandfather invented bleaching powder. Lord Glenconner was one of the great Scottish industrialists of the 19th century who amongst other achievements had his last child when he was 85 - she became Baroness Elliott of Harwood and when she died in 1997 aged 98, her father had been born the year before the Battle of Waterloo! The House was completely refurbished by Mark & Hermione Tennant in 1997, who also created the ‘Garden Room’, or as they say: “Some houses have a Marquee in their garden, but Innes has a Garden in their Marquee!” The present owners of the house are Edward & Zoë Tennant - Edward represents the 5th generation of the Tennant Family to own Innes, making him the great-great-grandson of Francis Tennant.
Photograph ©Tony Marsh.
https://vimeo.com/301204150?fbclid=IwAR1tvZlo_hxcWnnCFSZ7gF14wn2w5e-zOH1ZSrHthlCpkgn8QjmFIVRKP-E
Cara & Iain marry on a grand country estate
21 July 2018 - Glen Tanar estate, Aboyne
The sun was blazing, glorious surroundings in the estate lower garden and family and friends gathered to celebrate the marriage of this lovely couple from Cheshire. There were lots of smashing kids, I did the wee quaich/big quaich joke, marvellous confetti parade and a ceremony full of love, laughter & tears. Marvellous. Congratulations, live long and love lots Mr & Mrs MIller!
Stretching across 25,000 acres of Caledonian pine forests, heather-clad hills and fertile farmland, the estate was formed in 1865 when a merchant banker and MP from Manchester, Sir William Cunliffe Brooks, bought the land from the Marquis of Huntly. Brooks made many changes to the glen: he built houses and bridges, the Tower of Ess, the Victorian Ballroom and the landscaped gardens, all of which still stand proud to this day. In 1905, Glen Tanar was bought by George Coats, who later became Lord Glentanar. The present owners, Michael and Claire Bruce, are the fourth generation of the family to own and look after the estate. Today they manage a thriving and award-winning working estate, which comprises forestry, farming and conservation, as well as holiday cottages, outdoor pursuits and a nationally recognised Victorian Ballroom wedding venue.
The magnificent Victorian Ballroom at Glen Tanar is simply amazing. Built by Glen Tanar's original founder in 1869, and originally the music room of Glen Tanar House, the unique Ballroom provides a spectacular space. From its vaulted ceiling adorned with over 700 antlers, to its original oak floors, the Ballroom is airy, atmospheric and spacious.
Neil, can I just say a heartfelt thank you. Everyone commented on how beautiful the ceremony was. So many shared that you struck the right balance between humour and sensitivity. Even our 87 year old great uncle said that it's something he's never experienced before, literally. So different but beautiful.
The ceremony was warm, jovial, sensitive, poignant. Neil had gotten to know us, he had a feel for us and this showed in the ceremony. We knew the outline of the ceremony as we had agreed it before hand but it truly came to life on the day. Neil owned it. The jokes were apt and the verses sincere. The Celtic traditions which we had chosen timed well. Neil knew how to conduct a wedding and it went smoothly. All commented on how wonderful the ceremony was, including many who were only experienced in more traditional weddings.
So, thank you Neil for helping our day be as splendid and magical as it was. I will always remember your key role. We do hope our paths cross again.Thanks again, Mr & Mrs Miller
Jennifer & Gordon tie the knot
20 July 2018 - Aultbea
a smashing wee wedding today in the community hall at Aulbea, Wester Ross for Jennifer & Gordon. The bride's sister Fiona did a fantastic job of decorating the hall - the place was festooned with wild flowers and beautiful it was too- and then walked Jennifer down the aisle to her beau Gordon, waiting nervously. It all went well though, their kids Aiden and Connie enjoyed participating in the sand unity vase ceremony. Almost the entire community turned out for the wedding...this place will be rocking tonight!
"Thank you so much Neil, for an amazing ceremony. We loved it. So many people have commented on how lovely it was; the words and your delivery. It was everything we hoped for and more. Thank you so so much. Jennifer Coatsworth"
Courtney & Doug from DC...
16 July 2018 - Eilean Donan Castle
The wonderful wedding of Courtney & Doug from Washington DC. Eilean Donan is a magical, mystical place for a wedding for sure, so much history here. And romantic too. Some people say Eilean Donan is the most beautiful castle in Scotland and it is recognised as one of the most iconic images of Scotland all over the world.
Photograph © Sean Bell
"Dear Neil, I cannot thank you enough for celebrating with us on our wedding day and for doing such an incredible job placing us in the moment and making it extra special. We have watched the video of the Tie the Knot ceremony over and over again. I have attached a few pictures and we hope you like them. Remember you always have a place in the US! Sincerely, Douglas and Courtney Troyer"
A McGowan marries a MacNeill at Eilean Donan Castle
03 July 2018 - Eilean Donan Castle
All the way from Ontario in Canada with just close family & friends...to this mystical, mysterious and almost magical place, Carissa & Rory found the perfect place to declare their love.
Neil, Thank you so, so much for putting together the perfect ceremony. We truly could not be happier with how it went - and your sense of humour really pulled the whole thing together. We travelled from Canada to be married at Eilean Donan Castle on July 3rd of this year. We could not have asked for a better person to marry us. Thank you Neil for putting together a ceremony that was so personalized and true to us. We so appreciate all of your guidance and humour during the entire process, straight through the ceremony. Thank you!! Carissa & Rory.
fast boat to a secluded coral beach...and a lovely wedding for Lynne & Stevie
10 June 2018 - Coral Beach, Dunvegan
Well, today's wedding transport for the couple, guests and me was different...exhilarating even, as we sped across Loch Erghalan on an inflatable rib to the Coral Beach at Dunvegan. The breeze in our hair, the spray thrown up...And there, with just close family, Lynne and Stevie were married. The vows they exchanged were different from the each other, very personal and unique.
These outdoor weddings in special places are just wonderful. So too was the love evident with this smashing couple. Congratulations Mr & Mrs Binnie! And the midges stayed away! Hooray!
"Love does not consist of gazing at each other, but in looking outward together in the same direction."
Although some of the very best beaches in the world are located in the Outer Hebrides and on the mainland of north-west Scotland, great expanses of white sand are not to be found on Skye. But there are beaches of various kinds around the island, and some of them are very fine in their own way. One such place is Coral Beach, Dunvegan; even though it’s called Coral Beach, it’s not really coral. It is crushed bleached skeletons of Red Coralline seaweed (also known as Maërl).
Out on the reef by the Island of Lampay Coralline grows very slowly at 1mm per year. There are also many different and colourful shells on the beach.
"We cannot thank you enough for the kind and beautiful words you shared today with us. We have had the most perfect day and so glad that you agreed to marry us, you were fantastic as was Tanni. Thank you again x Lynne"
a secret garden in Perthshire...and a DOUBLE celebration!
The Byre at Inchyra - 9 June 2018
The sun is shining, I’m in the beautiful walled garden, all is quiet except the birds singing...all will change shortly with the wedding of Sara and Matthew. What a fantastic place to have your wedding ceremony! All weddings 👰🏼 🎩 are special but this one was even more so..,for Sara and Matthew invited Sara’s mum an dad Carol and Ian to share in their magical day by inviting them to renew their vows after 30 years of married bliss! So we had two ceremonies much to the surprise and delight of all the guests. Lots of laughs, a few happy tears and a bucketful of 💕 love 💕. What a day! Congratulations to BOTH couples.
The Byre At Inchyra is a converted cowshed on the Inchyra Estate, Glencarse, Perth. And whilst that may not sound particularly glamorous, it has become a very popular place to get married. This estate and country house dates back to 1795 with the original cattle byre built in 1877. Lord and Lady Inchyra performed a complete transformation of the building in 2014.
"What a day! What a day! What a day!
Neil, Matthew and I want to thank you so much- your cheeky charm and professionalism won us over, you made us feel completely at ease and you made our ceremony so personal and just so wonderful, we were so blessed to share our day with my mum and dad who renewed their vows after 31 years of marriage which meant the world to both matthew and I but also to my mum and dad especially after my dads MND diagnosis a few years ago, which has been incredibly hard for the whole family so there was tears, but happy tears!! What a special moment I’ll never forget, Neil you made our wedding day something we shall never forget, so we thank you for that,
Sara & Matthew, x
Thank you so much to the wonderful Neil for doing such a fantastic job at our wedding on saturday, you made the day super special and really captured matthew and I's relationship perfectly, it was light hearted, very personal and just amazing!!! So thank you so very much...Sara
Thank you so much Neil for a wonderful ceremony for my beautiful daughter and Matthew, a wedding to remember.
Ian and are are also truly honoured to have had the opportunity to share our renewal vows with the happy couple. Happy day with many wonderful memories. Thank you 😊 Carol.x
a beautiful day, a beautiful venue and a beautiful wedding for Sally & Colin
2 June 2018 at Tullibole Castle
They want to be able to look back in 50 years and say “I wouldn’t have changed a thing”. Lots of love and laughter during their ceremony - and they finished it all off as they sang with their guests, that beautiful song - Stand by Me by Ben E King. And walked back up the aisle to All You Need Is Love by The Beatles. Magic!
love, family, sun, sea & beautiful scenery, the Irish....what more could you ask for?
31 May 2018 Neist Point, Isle of Skye
A couple of Irish peeps from London got hitched today, Neist Point on Skye providing a lovely backdrop. The haar had lifted by the time I got there and the sun was shining. Anne-Marie and Pat were on form, plenty laughs, (including at my expense when I slipped up during the vows.) (Oh, and Pat was troubled with a fly in his eye )All in all a lovely family day. Congratulations Mr & Mrs McLafferty! 💖 ☘️ ☀️ Fa’ilte
Two souls with but a single thought,Two hearts that beat as one.
"Dealing with Neil was a pleasure from the initial contact to the end of our wedding ceremony. He was helpful and informative. He conducted the ceremony with warmth and professionalism and an amazing personal touch. We couldn't have had anyone else do such a stellar job. Neil, thank you for an amazing wedding - everyone was blown away. It was perfect. Anne-Marie & Pat"
Let's get married on the beach...but what a beach!
28 May 2018 - Scarista, Isle of Harris in the Outer Hebrideas
I'm here at Scarista on Harris for the wedding on the beach of Danielle & Ashley from Edinburgh with just 4 guests and two dogs (theirs and mine). A simple ceremony with only their siblings and respective partners. They wrote their own vows which along with a couple of readings were handwritten into a lovely journal to keep for posterity. A lovely keepsake.
The Isles of Lewis and Harris are incredible islands on the edge. They have beautiful, unspoilt beaches, rugged hills and mountains, a fascinating array of fauna and flora, a rich history, exciting recreation and wonderful culture, not forgetting art, music and crafts including the world famous Harris Tweed. And today I'm at Scarista the lovely golden sandy hebridean beach on the west coast of Harris in The Outer Hebrides. The place looks out towards the uninhabited island of Taransay (used in the famous TV series " The Castaways). The views looking out from Scarista beach are stunning - a pretty sparkling sea, the Harris hills, golden sands stretching for three miles. Along the way in to the beach in the summer is the beautiful machair carpet of wildflowers.
This place is simply magical. "To love and be loved is to feel the sun from both sides.”
"Thank you so much for being our celebrant Neil - we loved our ceremony, it was absolutely perfect. We're so happy! Hope you and Tanni enjoyed your couple of days in Lewis and Harris, it's so beautiful here! Danielle."
warm sun, lochside, woodland...bliss
Saturday 26 May at Loch Lomond Waterfront, Balmaha
There is nothing more magical than holding your marriage ceremony on the banks of Loch Lomond amidst the grounds of an exclusive private beach. Tie the knot within feet of the water and the soft hues of Ben Lomond in the background. Whether you use a star shade marquee or opt for a full open air ceremony, you’ll start your married life in front of an unforgettable backdrop.
...Sarah and Dominic are now Mr & Mrs Fitzgerald. Congratulations! “Love is like a friendship caught on fire.”
Neil, Thanks so much for conducting our ceremony on the banks of Loch Lomond. It was everything we could hope for and all just so perfect. We can’t thank you enough. Sarah & Dom xx
See the link for a lovely wedding video from Candlelight Pictures
Kirsty & Richard...it all started witn a crazy foam party!
21 April 2018 at North Berwick
Castleton Farm, North Berwick - a wonderful venue complete with spectacular views to Tantallon Castle, the Bass Rock and North Berwick Law, 3 of the most iconic images of East Lothian, you really cannot get any closer. And I’m here today for the wedding of Kirsty & Richard.
They were just friends for a couple of years - then one night there was a crazy foam party at the University. They got to know each other a lot better, there was suddenly a mutual attraction and they found they had a lot of common interests, particularly sport. From there-on they became a lot closer. The friendship developed into a relationship, then a romance. To use a phrase from one of their favourite TV programmes, Game of Thrones, it was at this stage that Richard realised that Kirsty was the only woman he would bend the knee for. Aaawww.
Congratulations Mr & Mrs Milne. Live long and love lots!
"Hi Neil, We wanted to drop you a personal note to express our thanks and gratitude for making our wedding ceremony so special on Saturday.
The service was perfect and we have had lots of positive feedback from our guests who both praised your delivery of the personalised service, and loved the little touches of hand fasting and rose presentation you suggested.We had the most perfect day and wouldn’t hesitate to recommend you to other couples getting married in the future.
Thank you for all your help. Best wishes, Mr & Mrs Milne x
Neil conducted our marriage ceremony on 21st April and we couldn’t be more delighted. We wanted a warm, relaxed ceremony that incorporated our family and friends and Neil completely met our brief. Neil was friendly and professional from the first time we met him and made the planning process very enjoyable! We would highly recommend Neil to anyone looking for a Humanist celebration."
A grand countryside venue with Royal connections for the wedding of Becky & Phil
31 March 2018 at Carberry Tower near Edinburgh
Tanni & I on the road again...for the wedding of Becky & Phil at Carberry Tower, this romantic place with Royal connections. A couple so well-matched, so right for each other and SO in love.. a little nervousness, a few laughs and tears too...and so much love. 💖 Congratulations Mr & Mrs Ellis! "When the one whose hand you're holding Is the one who holds your heart"
"Just wanted to Thank you for officiating Rebecca and Phil’s Wedding. You pitched everything perfectly and made the whole service so beautiful, personnel and special. Everyone commented on how wonderful it was , and how brilliantly you made everything flow. They all loved the explanations of the traditions and how interesting you made everything. Sorry about the Bride making the Groom wait 20 mins, but you helped to keep him calm and everyone relaxed. Once again, Thank you for everything Neil, You ( and your dog!) were amazing, Julie, Mother of the Bride, x x "
"Thank you for making the service so special. I was very dubious when Rebecca said what sort of service they were having but it could not have been better. You put everyone at ease and made it so personal to them it was amazing. X Ethel Barker"
One of the great Castle Mansion House of Scotland, Carberry Tower is situated just outside Edinburgh in beautiful East Lothian countryside.
Standing regally in 35 acres of stunning, private Estate parkland and widely recognised as Edinburgh's 'Castle in the country,' Carberry Tower is a place of intimate grandeur and to arrive here, is to weave your own story into a history that goes back to 1480 when the first foundation stone was laid.
Since then, it's been a gathering place for Kings and Queens, Princes and Princesses and over the centuries, the great and the good have all come to warm themselves by the fires and feast from the banqueting tables. a long and proud Royal connection with Her Majesty the Queen, who often visited Carberry Tower with her sister Princess Margaret. The Queen Mother’s sister, Lady Margaret Elphinstone, used to live here and consequently King George VI, the Queen’s father, often visited with his wife, the late Queen Mother. During that period, the two young Princesses, Elizabeth and Margaret, enjoyed playing in the extensive grounds with their cousin Margaret, often accompanied by family and loved ones who joined in the fun and games.
a romantic loch-side wedding with a mountain backdrop for Hannah & John
17 February 2018 - Loch Maree , Wester Ross
Mid-February Scotland is not renowned for warm weather...and it was freezing! Despite that, you could feel the warmth of the love between this couple who had been in a relationship for 15 years before deciding to tie the knot on the shores of Loch Maree in Wester Ross, in the northwest highlands of Scotland - and with just close family in attendance. Hannah wore a beautiful lacy wedding dress and braved the biting wind, John got the giggles during the ceremony - and everybody loved the simple, meaningful ceremony. 💘
The waters of the loch were also thought to have curative effects, with being submerged in the water thought to be a cure for lunacy. All of the loch's islands are conservation areas. The largest is the only island in Britain to contain a loch that itself contains an island. Like Loch Ness, Loch Maree has its own monster in the form of the muc-sheilch. The loch is often referred to as the most beautiful loch in the Highlands. The loch is bounded to the east by Slioch, a mountain over 3000 feet high, and which dominates its surroundings. The area hosts golden eagles.
"Good evening Neil,That’s us back safely in Glasgow after a truly wonderful weekend. We just wanted to thank you so much for delivering such a beautiful ceremony for us. We are genuinely so happy we found you and that you were able to be part of our special day!
Wild, wet, windy & wonderful Isle Of Skye Elopement
for Jordan & Travis from Austin, Texas - 17 November 2017
They say everything is bigger in Texas...well, this lovely couple from Austin were blown away (almost literally) by the dramatic big sky, the stunningly huge backdrop of the Quiraing and the full blast of a Scottish November afternoon. But it was all a marvellous accompaniment to the love they have for each other, the words they shared and the experience of standing there in this other-wordly place...just the two of them, lost in their thoughts and dreams. 💘💘💘It was certainly a day for the brave with an arctic blast to contend with...but a day to remember for sure. And Tanni made a welcome come-back too. Photo courtesy of
Rock & pop lyrics in the ceremony for Mikaela & Richard
20 October 2017 at Norwood Hall
Norwood Hall, Aberdeen...built in 1881 on the site of the 15th Century Pitfodels Castle, offering guests the best in breathtaking Scottish scenery and fine facilities. The atmospheric, wood panelled ceremony room was positively illuminated when bride Mikaela entered, such was her beauty and her stunning dress...gasps from the guests, she and groom Richard very relaxed, lots of laughs. They selected the lyrics from a number of their favourite pop songs to illustrate their love; John Legend - All of Me, I Wanna be Yours, Arctic Monkeys, How Would You Feel, Ed Sheeran, You & Me - The Wannadies; a lovely original inclusion. Friends, lovers, soulmates and now married!
"The greatest thing you'll ever learn Is to love and be loved in return."😍
"Hi Neil, Richard and I would just like to thank you so much for your help over the past months and the ceremony yesterday. We had the most amazing day and the ceremony was just perfect. Our friends and family commented on how personal the ceremony was and you delivered it with the perfect amount of humour and seriousness so thank you so much.
Let's run the Loch Ness Marathon first they said...
25 September 2017 at Glenmoriston Town House, Inverness
To celebrate the love ❤️ of Sarah Louise Grigor & Chris Cull. They're both as mad as a box of frogs, 🐸 they spread their wings and fly together. They share a passion for ultra distance running, they, and daughter Bethany, all completed the Loch Ness Marathon before the ceremony today (Sarah's 100th marathon!, Bethany's first marathon and Chris's first Loch Ness marathon). They are deeply in love, so right for each other. Their friends and family gathered to celebrate their love, their commitment and their future together - it was a joy to be part of their special day. So many wonderfully personal and decorative touches at the venue - an amazing cake! - and so much happiness for this lovely couple. Nothing can compare to the joy of being loved by the one who owns your heart, and loves you exactly the way you love them.
"Neil - I would have had nobody else but you to unite us. You helped make it so perfect - and fun! So many people commented on it being the most touching and personal ceremony they have ever seen. We cannot thank you enough for being such a perfect part of it 💜"
Magical, mystical, historical Eilean Donan Castle, a spectacular wedding venue
for the wedding of Rachel & Lincoln 08 September 2017
and today we're at Eilean Donan Castle, Dornie, Kyle of Lochalsh for the wedding of Rachel & Lincoln from Ohio, US 👰🤵😍🇺🇸️🤗
They met online, fell in love and decided on this spectacular venue for their wedding as it connected Rachel to her roots, the McPherson clan. A relaxed and loving ceremony with just close family and friends.
"And after today you shall say to the world..."this is my husband"..."this is my wife."😍
Eilean Donan is a small tidal island where three sea lochs meet, Loch Duich, Loch Long and Loch Alsh, in the western Highlands of Scotland. A picturesque castle that frequently appears in photographs, film and television dominates the island, which lies about 1 kilometre from the village of Dornie. Since the castle's restoration in the early 20th century, a footbridge has connected the island to the mainland. Eilean Donan, which means simply "island of Donnán", is named after Donnán of Eigg, a Celtic saint martyred in 617. Donnán is said to have established a church on the island, though no trace of this remains.
The castle was founded in the thirteenth century, and became a stronghold of the Clan Mackenzie and their allies the Clan Macrae. In the early eighteenth century, the Mackenzies' involvement in the Jacobite rebellions led in 1719 to the castle's destruction by government ships.
"Dear Neil, we both wanted to thank you from the bottom of our hearts for all that you've done for us. You've patiently walked us through a process that is foreign to us (both literally and figuratively!), you've taken the time to get to know us and make the beautiful ceremony you've written us personal - and you were always that kind, reassuring voice when we needed it. We are deeply grateful for all that you've done to kickstart our new married lives together on the right foot. With love, Rachel & Lincoln"
this wedding meant SO much to the brige & groom - and me too!
01 August 2017 at Fairy Glen
Fiona and Martin marry on the farm
22 July 2017...an Ayrshire country wedding for Fiona & Martin
Good afternoon and welcome, välkommen och, god aftermiddag...
15 July 2017 - Cullen Bay - for the wedding of Sabina & Pete...
a Scots Baronial mansion for the wedding of these lovers-since their teenage schooldays
8 July 2017 - Laura & Craig at Carlowrie Castle 2017
The sun shone, the wedding principals and guests were all smiling, super collection of kilts, the brides dress? - simply stunning. Laura and Craig paid great attention to every detail of their wedding, composed beautiful commitments and vows themselves. Even the pesky fly which kept alighting on Laura's face seemed to enjoy the occassion! And it was just simply, a lovely day full of love. They fell in love while still teenagers at school you know. 💞
"In the garden of thy heart, plant nought but the rose of love"
Historic Carlowrie Castle on Edinburgh’s doorstep is the unexpected home to an international collection of ‘Urban’ and ‘Pop’ art. The 19th-century mansion house set amidst a 32-acre estate just eight miles west of Edinburgh. The Castle’s owner, property developer and former resident Andrew Marshall, has sympathetically restored the house and its grounds to create a remarkably lavish retreat that blends rich heritage with modern elegance and luxurious comfort. The contemporary interiors, scale and proportion of the rooms provide a dramatic showcase for part of Andrew’s evolving private art collection.
Bought by his father in 1982, the castle was Andrew’s childhood family home. In its entire history, Carlowrie Castle has only ever been residence to two families; Thomas Hutchison who commissioned its build, a successful wine merchant and one-time Lord Provost of Edinburgh who bought the estate from the Sinclair family in 1850, and the Marshall family. Designed and constructed in 1852 by eminent Victorian architect David Rhind, Carlowrie Castle is a striking example of a Scots Baronial mansion with grand stone façade, pitched dormers and high parapets.
See link to a wonderful video by Adam Troup at Inspire Video; https://vimeo.com/228393451
the wedding of Lynsey & Scott at Nigg
17 June 2017 - History is made in a historical setting
Nigg Old Parish Church was my interesting destination today - Nigg (from the Scottish Gaelic: An Neag meaning "the notch", referring to a feature of the hills above the parish church) is a village and parish in Easter Ross. It lies on the north shore of the entrance to the Cromarty Firth and I was there to conduct the wedding of Lynsey & Scott, a lovely couple who now live in Edinburgh. Simple ceremony with lots of family & friends participation, mums lit candles, some beautiful poetry read by a bridesmaid and more from a friend of the couple. Quaich ceremony with a quaich presented by an uncle, packed venue, lots of kids, loads of laughs and bundles of love.
There is never a time or place for true love. It happens accidentally, in a heartbeat, in a single flashing, throbbing moment. 😍
The present parish church is an 18th-century building on an early Christian site dating back to at least the 8th century. The Nigg Stone, one of the most elaborate stone monuments of early medieval western Europe, is preserved in a room at the west end of the church. This late 8th century Pictish cross-slab formerly stood in the churchyard, but was moved indoors for preservation in recent years. The nearby manse is one of the oldest to survive in Scotland, dating back to the first half of the 17th century. It is now privately owned and no longer used as the parish minister's residence.
Nigg Old has its odd and curious features. In the churchyard is the Cholera Stone, dating from the cholera epidemic of 1832. One of the elders, on coming out of the church, saw a cloud of vapour hovering above the ground. He believed it to be a cloud of cholera, threw a blanket or cloth over it and placed this large stone on top to keep it from escaping. And inside the church, according to one tradition, the beadle (church officer) allowed an illicit still to be kept in the space under the pulpit. I resisted the temptation to deliver the ceremony from the two-tier pulpit.
"Neil, we both wanted to thank you for conducting such a lovely ceremony, the response that we had from our guests was very touching and many said that it was one of the nicest/hilarious ceremonies that they had been to."
a beautiful summer's day...a super venue...a couple in love since they were teenagers get married...and they involve their lovely kids too!
27 May 2017 - Debbie & Michael get married in Elgin
"First off what a great guy Neil is...
From the moment we met Neil for our first meeting we knew he was the right person to do our wedding ceremony. He made myself, now husband and our 2 children feel so at ease. He interacted with the children to let them know what a big part of the day they were going to play and be included which is very important to us.
He took in all off what we were saying and scripted out something so beautiful but with some humour in there for good measure.
Everyone commented on how great Neil was and to be honest he made the ceremony even more special, it was like having a friend there not just a somebody.
Some of the touches that Neil added were amazing he gave us so many ideas/options in which we are so greatful.
We would highly recommend Neil and again thank you so much for making our day extra special. Debbie"
Kim & Bernie...bitten by more than the Love-bug
23 May 2017 - Fairie Glen, Uig, Isle of Skye
a giggling wedding throughout...😂😍
29 April 2017 - a fun-filled wedding with laughs throughout for Laura & Ross at Lossiemouth
it was a laugh-a-minute kinda day...bride Laura looked absolutely stunning, groom Ross was so relaxed, a lovely romantic ceremony with just a small group of family & friends...then the night time guests arrived in droves. I doubled as Master of Cermonies, everyone had a blast and the lovely couple loved every minute of it.
"Just wanted to say thank you for all you did in making our day so much fun Neil...it was wonderful, everbody loved the ceremony. Laura"
Wedding of Louise & Mark
22 April 2017 - at Aswanley House, Huntly
a beautiful wedding for a beautiful couple in a beautiful setting - a great pair to work with, kept their ceremony loving and simple, intimate venue, family & friends loved it.
"Thank you so much for last Saturday- independently, we both had so many compliments on the ceremony, people really loved that it was relaxed but both personal to me and Mark. I was so delighted with the whole day- it just passed far too quick." Louise
Click on the link for the beautiful wedding video by Orchard Wedding Films, Peterhead; https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=v5JhuvG1ync
Cas & Mike's wedding
16 April 2017 - Gruinard Bay beach, Wester Ross
THIS is what's so great about doing Humanist weddings; a marvellous day out to Gruinard Beach, the rain stopped, the gale force wind abated and the sun came out...for the lovely Cas & Mike's wedding on the beach with stunning views and a wonderful backdrop. And Tanni's first wedding too! She was a good girl...had her special wedding collar on. Lovely couple, wonderful families & friends, gorgeous dress worn by the bride, rare single malt for the quaich toast...what more could you ask for?
"We have to say, of all the fun and festivities over the last couple of weeks, our time on the beach is the best. That might sound obvious, but so many people have said their ceremony was over so fast, or they didn't remember it. But we remember the whole thing, perfectly. It was marvellous Neil, thank you." Mike
13 April 2018 - Cortes House, Fraserburgh
I recently married this lovely couple who composed their own vows in their entirety; they read them to each other, holding hands and looking lovingly into each other's eyes...we had Shakespearian quotations, poetry from a Bridesmaid, 3 things the couple love about the other, symbolic gestures and this... (almost brought a lump to my throat)...(reproduced with their kind permission)
"Daniel - you are the person I want to build my life with.
You are a kind, loyal, passionate person who I love laughing with.
Your friendship and unwavering support is something I know I can rely on through good times and bad.
I promise today and always to share your dreams and help you achieve your goals, working with you and never against you.
I will care for you as you care for me, sharing equally in the responsibilities we both bring to our marriage.
I understand that marriage will not always be easy but promise to celebrate the highs and am committed to working with you through the lows.
I cannot wait to continue life’s adventure with you by my side.
It is with a joyous heart that I take you as my husband and pledge my whole heart to you in front of our friends and families.
I Erin accept you Daniel, in marriage to be my lawfully wedded husband."
"Erin - You are my best friend and the person who makes me the best that I can be.
I will always believe in you and be your biggest supporter in all things, to help you achieve everything you want to in life.
I promise to laugh with you, have fun with you, play games with you, dance with you and share all of the good things that we have ahead of us.
And, when you are tired, I even promise to rub your legs when you need.
I will love you whenever we are together, and when we are apart.
I cannot wait for us to start the next chapter of our lives together, building a home and a family together, wherever in the world our journey takes us next.
You are all I could ever want and I love you with all my heart - and I promise to always be by your side as we face life’s challenges together.
I Daniel, accept you Erin, in marriage to be my lawfully wedded wife."
Now isn't that just beautiful! 😍
Thank you to David Grant Simpson for the pictures. Click on the link to view the beautiful wedding slideshow.
https://david-grant-simpson-photography.smartslides.com/erin-daniel
http://www.davidgrantsimpson.com/
Kristi & Robbie's wedding
18 March 2017 - Drumossie Hotel, Inverness
A lovely couple (they are just SO in love 😍)who put so much work into designing their own ceremony, with guests from Canada, Australia, the US and Cyprus. I believe there was even a few from deepest darkest Evanton! And Kristi was escorted up the aisle by her Mum Michelle to the strains of Ed Sheerin's Tenerife Sea. And a nice moment of reflection too.https://vimeo.com/209472118
"Hi Neil, we can't thank you enough for such an amazing ceremony and a perfect day! It's a blur to me now it went so quick and I would do it all over again so would Kristi (I mean the wife)
All the guests were telling us how great the ceremony was and we will all be recommending you! Will need to pop in and see you and this new puppy sometime!! Robbie "
"Thank you so much Neil for marrying us, the ceremony was just what we wanted! Couldn't post this picture on your humanist page; just sums up our ceremony - lots of laughs! Everyone commented on how good it was. Thanks again, so much! Kristi"
Howdy! & how ye' doin?😁
14 February - Valentines Day - 2017 at Achagairn, Inverness
Ashley and Kieran, Valentines Day wedding at Achnagairn. Super day, 🌞lovely weather, fabulous couple and a lovely ceremony with some unique and innovative symbolic gestures, lots of Scots & Americans, single malts, tartan = a perfect day for a lovely couple.
"You performed a beautiful, heartfelt ceremony...thank-you for adding so much to this very special day! Nancy, (Mother of the bride) Oh and the scotch tasting was fabulous!" https://www.harperscottphoto.com/blog/2017/3/20/achnagairn-castle-wedding-photography
Wedding of Dawn & David
29 October 2016 - Tulloch Castle, Dingwall
Atmospheric, spooky but a warm loving day at Tulloch Castle for the wedding of Dawn & David. The castlle is located in the town of Dingwall ad probably dates to the mid 16th century. Over the years, it has served as a family home for members of the Bain family and Clan Davidson, and Vickers family, as a hospital after the evacuation of Dunkirk and as a hostel for the local education authority.
There have been several claims that Tulloch Castle is haunted. Visitors and hotel staff have reported witnessing apparitions in the form of a young girl and a middle aged lady. So it was perhaps appropriate that Dawn & David married on Halloween!
"Neil recently conducted the wedding of my sister and the service was perfect. It was very personal and gave a great account of the happy couple. The whole service felt relaxed and was thoroughly enjoyed by all in attendance. Highly recommend Neil to anyone looking for a Humanist Celebrant to deliver any kind of service." Claire Smith
Funeral for simply a nice bloke...
2017...
"Thank you from the bottom of my heart for the lovely service you gave my dad yesterday, you spoke so eloquently about him, I think if you had met my dad the two of you would have got on, listening to all his stories and local historical knowledge. Love fee xx"
it's always a honour to deliver a funeral tribute
a lovely casket reflecting the lady she was; fun and cheerful.
"A tall, elegant and quite beautiful woman, she had this quiet dignity about her…but was more often than not in wellies and smelling of the byre! As her son often said, she was never far from her farming roots."
Funerals...
It may sound odd but I actually enjoy working with families to deliver a meaningful ceremony to give tribute to their loved one, especially when it helps to ease the pain, just a little.
2018;
2017;
Dear Neil
"I would like to thank you on behalf of my family and I for the lovley service you gave my dad John. It made a tough time more easier that we could laugh and joke and every one we spoke to afterwards said it was briliant and very fitting - so thank you very much. Pamela & family."
Dear Neil, On behalf of the entire family I just wanted to let you know how much we appreciated all your work on behalf of mum. Your kindness, diligence and attention to detail made our loss a little easier and the Service of Remembrance very special. Having attended a Humanist Family wedding we knew the personal nature of the Service was what we wanted from the start but without exception all comments and remarks from those attending have been positive and declaring what a lovely Service it was. Whilst I appreciate it is what you do and the skill comes with your experience I am just wanting you to know how very special it was for us. Thank you, Evelyn and family"
2016;
“I can’t thank you adequately for yesterday Neil. The ceremony was absolutely perfect – celebrated the happy times, the good times of my wife’s life and was commented on by everyone. And thank you especially for your warmth and understanding.”
“Dear Neil, Just a short note to say that we very much appreciated the service for Mum this afternoon. We felt it hit exactly the right note. A lot of people came up to me at the reception to say that they thought it was a brilliant service and just right for her. So thank you very much indeed for that.”
"Hi Neil,
I just wanted to send on the family’s thanks for putting together and running such a lovely service on Friday for Grandma’s funeral. You really did make what is a very sad time that little bit better.Thanks again,
Sonia (and family)"
From one of the funerals I had today...
M... who could shop for Scotland – loved visiting charity shops with her friend, all over Moray and as far as Inverness too. And while clothes shopping some years ago with one of her grandchildren, she said hello to someone as they passed in the shop; when asked who she was talking to, she said she couldn’t remember the lady’s name but she looked familiar. M... was speaking to herself in a mirror!
No black at this funeral...
17 October 2016 April 2016 -
Mohan may have gone but the memories of this man are everlasting.
A cultured, dignified, highly educated and ambitious man.
An honourable man, a romantic.
A loving husband, father, brother and son.
A dedicated professional man who worked tirelessly to bring relief and a better life to others, respected amongst his peers.
A man who reached the very top of his profession.
And a flamboyant dresser...I wish I had known him.
So I dressed accordingly, bow tie, colourful waistcoat, chinos...in his memory and in tribute to Mohan.
"Your tribute was perfect - thank you Neil"
Listen, there is this silence now...this stillness...
03 July 2017 - two funerals. two special men.
Baby Rayne - a chilled out, laid back, smiley and giggly little girl.
Aged 9 months
24 February 2018 at Forres
Baby Rayne’s naming ceremony today. A very special ceremony. This gorgeous wee girl has not had an easy time of it recently but she was all smiles today as usual. Friends & family did readings, candles were lit and there was a lovely unity vase sand ceremony with pastel colours. All of the selected readings were simply beautiful...and we look to the future, give Rayne our best wishes, hopes and dreams for her...with a short extract from mum Karen's reading; " Now you're here to brighten up each day, And fill our life with happiness in so many ways. Every night I will stand your door, And tell you, Rayne, that I love you more. "Thank you for giving me the honour Karen Dawson
Omg what a brilliant day Rayne's Naming ceremony was perfect, thank you so much Neil, everyone really enjoyed the ceremony. Glad she finally got her day. You were fab. Xxx Karen
It was a perfect day and a beautiful ceremony Thank you Neil. Munchkin would not give in to sleep stayed up partying all day. She’s a wee 🌟 xxxxx Granny Beatrice Jamieson
Marie & Brian, a devoted couple
4 August 2021 - Luskentyre beach
My goodness the weather fairies were kind to us today. Swedish Marie loves Scotland and so was determined to wed her Scottish beau Brian in the outdoors, somewhere romantic, somewhere dramatic, somewhere beautiful. And after a night and morning of persistent rain, we did it! White sand, turqouise sea, dramatic hills. What more could you ask for? Perfect. Marie even managed to wear heels! Impressive!
Heather & Wesley - bliss
7 August 2021 - Eilean Donan Castle
A wonderful picture from the wedding at Eilean Donan Castle this evening, © Penny Hardie Photography. Best castle in the world to have your wedding. Romantic, mystical, magical, historical. At the meeting of 3 lochs. On a moody Scottish summer evening. What more could you ask for. Just the perfect place for Heather & Wesley to tie the knot with a tiny group of friends & family and follow that with a toast to each other and their marriage...with a combination of Scotch & Irish whiskies - that's called a marriage of whiskies!
Sue & Ray...love knows no boundaries
8 August 2021 - Eilean Donan Castle
Over the last 15-20 years or so, online dating has gone from the slightly weird to the new norm. And that’s how Sue & Ray met, online, at Match.com. Their birthdates had a very high compatibility match so he got the green card to proceed. They talked for several weeks by email and after another month, they met up and hit it off straight away. A friendship developed into a relationship - and they fell in love. And this evening, after 9 years together, they married in the fairytale ceremony - in a fairytale castle. Sometimes, dreams do come true.
Becca & Calvin...soul mates
8 August 2021 - Elgin
Molly & Matthew...like two pieces of a jigsaw...they just fit with each other.
14 August 2021 - Achnagairn
lots and lots of LOVE - lots of green too!
15 August 2021 - Clydebank
lots and lots of LOVE - with a view!
17 August 2021 - Inverness
Paradise!
23 August 2021 - Torridon
local couple - posh venue - cupid calls
25 August 2021 - Craigellachie Hotel
not-so-local couple - posh venue - cupid calls again
28 August 2021 - Seafield Arms Hotel, Cullen
Hollie & Doug, lots of love and a little bit of hisory
2 September 2021 - Eilean Donan Castle
young love
3 September 2021 - Gordon Castle
an Edinburgh skyline icon for this wedding
4 September 2021 - Balmoral Hotel, Edinburgh
a country inn
5 September 2021 - Mill House, Buckie
10 September 2021 - Western House Hotel, Ayr
2 local farmers wed in style
11 September 2021 - Sprinkell, Lockerbie
then they made a wish and dropped flower petals into the river...
12 September 2021 - Glencoe
dreams do come true for Louise & Grant
26 July 2021 - River Dee at Braemar
Like a place straight out of Lord of the Rings!
21 August 2021 - Branholm Park, Hawick
Paradise for Vera & Jason
23 August 2021 - Torridon, Wester Ross
a secret place
16 September 2021 - Loch Coruisk
a very special place
26 September 2021 - Achnagairn
love wins
28 September 2021 - Glenmore Forest
baby love - Amanda & Sean
9 October 2021 - Chester Hotel, Aberdeen
history, grandeur & love
23 October 2021 - Pollock House
we got it done!
28 October 2021 - Achnagairn
Laurie & Ryan
27 November 2021 - Nairn
Tammy & Philip
22 November 2021 - Loch Morlich
Mhairi & Stuart
20 November 2021 - Loch Lomond
Tammy & Philip
13 November 2021 - Comrie Croft
Jodie & Stephen
1 Deember 2021 - Glen Tanar
Jade & Mark
2 Deember 2021 - Douneside House
Faye & Joel
19 February 2022 - Logie Country House
Jay & Donald
29 January 2022 - Forbes of Kingennie Country Park
Robyn & Lawrence
28 December 2021 - Borthwick Castle
Lena & David
21 December 2021 - Glencoe House
Poppy & Chris
11 December 2021 - Aswanley
Angelika & Alexander
12 October 2021 - Eilean Donan Castle
Emily & Paul
16 August 2021 - Foyers, Inverness
Bryony & Phil
16 September 2021 - Loch Coruisk
Amy & Patrick
16 October 2021 - Roseisle
Karla & Euan
26 February 2022 - Drumtochty Castle
Emma & Adam
12 March 2022 - Achnagairn Castle
Fiona & Ceara
18 March 2022 - Loch Lomond
Catherine & Alan
19 March 2022 - Loch Maree
Alice & Lewis
2 April 2022 - Wedderburn Castle
Louise & James
1 April 2022 - The Royal Botanic Gardens, Edinburgh
Jenni & Sion
4 April 2022 - Carlowrie Castle
Ellen & Marco
9 April 2022 - Muir of Ord
Kirsty & Andrew
12 April 2022 - Fairy Glen Falls, Rosemarkie
Zimera & Tobias
14 April 2022 - Loch Garten
Rachel & Stephen
16 April 2022 - Netherdale House, Turriff
Eilidh & David
22 April 2022 - Balnakeilly House
Eilidh & David hoped to have their wedding at a lovely hotel near their home but unfortunately it closed. So they chose Balnakeilly House, Pitlochry instead. Good choice! And in this intimate setting they delivered their self-composed vows to each other in front of a small group of family & friends. And David delivered his quite spontaneously from memory. Impressive! A lovely day with a lovely couple.
Megan & Shaun
28 April 2022 - Drummuir Station
Sarah & Chris
26 April 2022 - Achnagairn, Inverness
Claire & Thomas
25 April 2022 - Scarista, Isle of Harris
Sarah & Chris
23 April 2022 - Mansefield Hotel, Elgin
Sarah & Charles
30 April 2022 - Dundas Castle, Edinburgh
Denise & Daniel
2 May 2022 - Isle of Harris
Photos & Videos
Some of my favourites...take a look and enjoy!
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© Sean Bell Photography
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© Sean Bell Photography
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© Otago Street Collective Photography
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© The Caryls Photography
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© Danny Birrell Photography
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© Derek Christie Photography
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© Pernille Ølgod - wedding photographer
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© David Grant Simpson Photography
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© Dylan Kitchener
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© Dylan Kitchener
© 2016