Intimate Boho Wedding At Cardney Steading Estate Scotland

Intimate elopements are now more popular than ever and this small but perfectly formed one set at Cardney Steading Estate Scotland is full of beautiful inspiration when it comes to planning your own. We hear from coordinator, florist and stylist Susan Shannon of Wedding Flowers by Susan about what inspired the shoot and how she created it, plus we have some top tips and wedding planning advice from the other wonderful suppliers that were involved in this boho wedding inspiration…

Inspiration

“Scotland is famous for its Highland elopements, with couples travelling from all over the world to get married in the mountains, with just the stunning scenery as a backdrop. I wanted to take this concept, but showcase, how adding a little bit of outdoor decor, can add to and compliment the setting without detracting from the natural beauty.”

“The theme was very simple and based on portable and reusable parts. Everything was designed to be used and reused throughout your typical wedding day. The stunning backdrop could be split up after the ceremony and moved to the reception area or behind a cake. We chose an autumn colour palette to compliment the changing colours of the trees and hillside, but these colours could be altered to tie in with a summer or winter theme. Because of the ease of transporting the different parts, it also allows for a quick change of location should the Scottish weather not cooperate.”

The Venue

“Cardney Steading is a rural wedding venue in Scotland, where you’re invited to enjoy our estate and farm and everything it has to offer. Unlike other countryside venues, our indoor and outdoor areas are all easy to access and close at hand. Each indoor space opens out onto our beautiful covered courtyard, so there’s no need to worry about the weather. If you’re planning a traditional service, a lochside ceremony or a woodland wedding followed by a barn or byre reception, we have just the place to make it happen.”

Styling

“We wanted a gorgeous yet sustainable feel to the backdrop. By using vintage furniture and easily customisable arches, we created a look that was stunning, but could be reused again and again and never look exactly the same. I always recommend to my couples, having a one venue wedding, that they choose items that can be reused throughout the day in different ways. This backdrop is stunning for your ceremony, but can then be broken down and used to highlight other aspects of the day. As a top table backdrop, or to frame the wedding cake, or even as a selfie area for your guests instead of a traditional photo booth.”

“The props for this shoot were supplied by The Cheeky Hound which is a small family-run business based in Fife Scotland. It is aimed at those who want to get creative and style & decorate their own wedding, and they specialise in self-style prop hire. They’re passionate about offering sustainable, vintage and pre-loved items and have an eclectic array of props, decor and furniture to choose from, which means you can have the wedding of your dreams whilst also being kind to the environment too.”

Planning Advice

Photography

“Every photographer has their own style and way of working. Do a bit of research on the type of photography you are looking for and check out any prospective photographers’ websites and socials to see if their style fits your vision. Your wedding photographer is a huge part of your day and will likely be with you, personally, from the early morning preparations through to the dancing at night. It is, therefore. important that you have some interactions with them before your wedding day and make sure that you are a good fit and understand each other. You could book the most amazing photographer, but if you aren’t comfortable around them, it will show in the photos.”

The Dress

“You will need to try on different styles and try and have an open mind. You might have an idea of what you like in your head but be surprised once you try on different styles, by what dresses actually suit you. Dresses also look completely different on the hanger to on the body so have fun trying them on. If you can’t find what you’re looking for why not try a bespoke gown? You can describe all the elements you do like and ask the designer to incorporate these into your design.”

Flowers

“Even for couples working on a tighter budget, I always recommend not compromising on the bridal bouquet. Your bouquet, along with your dress, will be present in most of your photos and should be exactly what you want it to be. Once you have made a decision on the bridal bouquet, your florist can then work with you to create the rest of your flowers around this, and within your budget. For one venue weddings, you can make your flowers go further by reusing them throughout the day. Your table centres can line your aisle or your ceremony backdrop can be used to decorate the top table.”

Cake

“Cakes come in all shapes, sizes, colours and flavours. Do your research and check out the websites and socials of cake makers to see if their style matches yours. Your cake maker can advise you on cake sizes and portions for your guest numbers and will be able to cater to any dietary requirements.”

Hair and Makeup

“Find a stylist that fits your style of hair and makeup. There’s no point in picking someone that specialises in sleek updos when you are more of a boho babe at heart. Same with makeup, if you love a natural makeup look pick someone who reflects that style in their work. Browse their socials and website to get a feel for their personality and their work.”