Holden + Olivia
This has to be one of the most whimsical and stunning elopements I've ever experienced and it truly highlights what's possible when you're willing to take risks to make a day feel like your own. Holden and Olivia were dreaming of a romantic, earnest day surrounded by their closest friends. They travelled from London up to Scotland to get married by Grey Mare's Tail in a very memorable ceremony led by celebrant Gerrie Douglas-Scott; with only three people there to witness. Gerrie did a beautiful job guiding the couple through their own story, a hand-fasting and a ring warming. The pair then each read vows to each other which, frankly, had everyone crying (not helped by the fact that Holden is a writer, and an incredible one at that). After the ceremony, their friend sang them a song as the couple took in the scenery around them.
Post-ceremony Holden, Olivia and I went for a small hike to get a better view of the waterfall before heading off to find some castle ruins a drive away. Spending this extra time with them really helped me understand the purity of their love, as they shared stories with me about meeting each other's family, living together, and travelling together.
The best part was after all that exploring the couple returned to their airbnb where all their friends were waiting to celebrate with them. They were greeted by a confetti throw and a round of applause as they walked in and then everyone helped themselves to a buffet-style lunch provided by a chef.
Once everyone had eaten the friends sat around and each one of them read out a speech to the couple. It was the most special afternoon and I am so glad Holden and Olivia decided to follow their guts and create a day that felt wholly their own.
