Dina and Calum

Dina and Calum travelled from New Zealand to be married at Thirlestane Castle in September 2023. Calum, British, and Dina, American, were joined by over 70 friends and family for a truly stunning wedding.

The festivities kicked off a day before the main event, as the immediate family gathered to start the celebrations early, easing nerves and creating memories with some drinks in our Panelled Room and Front Hall. The rehearsal dinner in the State Dining Room set the tone for the weekend and got excitement building. The night concluded with a nightcap in the Vaulted Cellar before the wedding party retired to their castle suites for the night.

Wedding Ceremony

Wedding day preparations unfolded in the Castle suites, with the bridal party utilising The Earl and Countess for hair and makeup, while the groomsmen suited up in the spacious Lauderdale.

Dina and Calum had their first look in our Rose Garden which was absolutely picture-perfect. The bagpipes then began, marking the start of the ceremony, and everybody took their places. Dina followed her bridesmaids through the grand front door of the castle, making the most exquisite entrance. The couple were blessed with glorious weather, creating the perfect setting for a ceremony on the Castle’s forecourt overlooking the lush parkland.

Drinks Reception

Following the heartfelt ceremony, the newlyweds strolled back through castle and emerged into the Rose Garden for drinks reception. Everyone relaxed and enjoyed the balmy autumn afternoon with a tasty tipple and some lawn games. Once they got some photos with their families, Dina and Calum took some time to journey through the various spaces within the Castle and parkland to capture the first few hours as newlyweds.

Wedding Breakfast and Evening Reception

The wedding breakfast was a celebratory feast that took place in the State Drawing Room. Dina and Calum opted for an elegant circular table scape with crisp white linen and pastel flower centrepieces.

With the meal savoured, the wedding party embraced a moment to relax, enjoying the Castle and partaking in refreshments on the forecourt. The seven-tier macaroon cake, topped with a Highland Cow, was a quirky element of the day and took centre stage as it was cut in front of the castle.

As day turned to night, a clearspan marquee in the Courtyard was the perfect place for the evening reception. The lively atmosphere, fuelled by the band ‘Foot Stompin’, drew everyone to the dance floor. Outdoor firepits and seating provided a cosy spot for guests to enjoy a drink with the beautiful Castle backdrop. Late-night snacks arrived just in time to aid dancing feet, ensuring the festivities continued until midnight.