Lisa & Stu
Couples' Names:
Lisa & Stu
Wedding date:
05/25/2024
Wedding Location
Your love story: Tell us a bit about how you met and how this led to your engagement. Feel free to share your engagement story with us, too!
We met in Edinburgh on Tinder in November 2020. Stu had just moved back to Scotland after living in Bristol for six years. For our first date, we went for a walk around a lagoon with coffee, and Stu surprised me by bringing along my favourite pastry, a pastel de nata, which he had spotted in one of my photos. The rest is history.
Engagement story
We got engaged in November 2022 while away for the weekend celebrating our anniversary. I’ve always loved visiting the Scottish islands, and Stu had planned to propose on the Isle of Gigha, which we had booked to visit. But he couldn’t wait.
On the way there, we stopped in Lochgoilhead. As it was getting dark, we walked up a small hill because Stu was determined to find a view. I turned around and he was on one knee, holding a beautiful sapphire ring that my family had given him the month before. It was completely unexpected and so special.
Which Catherine Deane gown/bridal separates, and accessories did you choose?
I wore the Belle Gown.
Did you find your Catherine Deane outfit online, at our London Boutique, or at one of our stockists?
I purchased my gown from a Catherine Deane stockist in Glasgow, Anne Priscilla Bridal. I tried on a few Catherine Deane dresses, but the moment I put on the Belle Gown, I knew it was the one. The pearls, the thigh slit and the backless detail made it my perfect dress.
What does it mean to you to be a Catherine Deane Bride / Why did you fall in love with the brand?
I loved how the designs felt modern yet still timeless. Each piece felt thoughtful and unique, and the Belle Gown just felt completely aligned with my style from the moment I tried it on.
Did you have a specific theme/color palette for your wedding day - if so, what drew you to this mood?
The setting really guided everything. Being by the sea, I wanted the day to feel natural, relaxed and light, with soft, romantic tones that complemented the coastal surroundings.
How did you decide that your wedding venue was the one?
I grew up on the north east coast of Scotland, always close to the sea, and still spend most of my time at the beach in Edinburgh. Stu was also brought up in a seaside town, so we always knew we wanted to get married by the water.
Findhorn Beach felt perfect. We were incredibly lucky with the weather and had the most beautiful sunshine. It’s a small town, so we hired out local pubs for our guests to stay in for the weekend. The night before, we had pizza on the beach, swam in the sea and relaxed in a sauna we’d hired. Our reception was held in the nearby village hall, which made everything feel personal and relaxed.
After going through the wedding planning and gown shopping journey, what advice do you have for future brides?
Lean into what feels meaningful to you. Whether it’s the location, the people or the small details, those are the things you’ll remember most. Don’t feel pressured to follow a set formula. Creating a day that reflects your life and your story will always feel more special.
What is the most memorable moment from your wedding day?
Standing on the beach, surrounded by everyone we love, with the sun shining and the sea beside us. It felt so calm, so joyful and completely us.
Vendor Lover:
Photographer: Darren Skinner Photography
Florist: @meadowcottageflowers
Venue: Findhorn Beach & Local Village Hall
Catering: @qismatstreetfood
Wedding Decor: A mix of Ghost Fashion and other stores
Wedding Planner: @mccalls
Jewellery: Beaverbrooks
