Sam and Liza travelled from Philadelphia, USA, to be married at Thirlestane Castle as a connection to their Scottish heritage. Their parents played a large part in creating their dream wedding, including coming to Scotland to scout out venues. Along with their 120 guests, they stayed in the Castle’s luxury suites, woodland lodges and local accommodation for the two day celebration.
Pre-Wedding Day
Upon their arrival at Thirlestane, the wedding party made themselves at home with a guided tour of the Castle before making their way to the church for a ceremony rehearsal. They were welcomed back to Thirlestane with a delicious spread of local charcuterie delights and served in the Victorian Kitchen.
Later that evening, all other guests who were staying in local accommodation arrived by coach for a relaxed soiree of live music and wood fired pizzas in the courtyard as well as lawn games in front of the Castle. Sam donned a kilt as a nod to his Scottish heritage and much to his father’s delight, the perfect attire to begin the celebrations.
Wedding Day
Liza began her day by getting ready in the Earl & Countess with her bridal party while Sam and his groomsmen enjoying a special bottle of his grandmother’s whisky in the Panelled Room. Sam and Liza chose to be married at the beautiful Trinity Church, located in the nearby town of Melrose. Liza and her family made their way to the ceremony in a vintage Rolls Royce.
Following the ceremony, a bagpiper welcomed guests back to Thirlestane for a drinks reception on the Castle terrace. The wedding party enjoyed canapés and fizz while speeches took place and then a special Scottish country dance was performed by Sam’s cousin.
Dinner & Evening Reception
Dinner was served in the Castle’s State Rooms, dressed with elegant candles and delicate pastel flowers. Sam and Liza chose to have their guests seated at long tables to create an relaxed atmosphere.
The celebrations continued in the Rose Garden marquee, creating garden party vibes. Liza and Sam cut their wedding cake, decorated with beautiful wildflowers, before performing their first dance. The DJ kept guests on the dance floor all night, and fire pits burned bright on this balmy summer evening.
The newlyweds closed the evening with a sparkler exit, a truly magical way to end an unforgettable celebration.
“We could not be happier with our choice of venue in Thirlestane Castle. From the moment we visited, we were in awe of the beauty of the architecture and interiors, the surrounding grounds, and the amazing history of the Castle. Monica and the entire Thirlestane Castle team were amazing partners to work with both during the planning process and on the day of. They were incredibly organized, welcoming, and experienced. We love the bespoke nature of the wedding planning process and were able to create a unique set of experiences for our guests, utilizing multiple spaces across the property. One of the highlights of our weekend was the fact that both families as well as the bridal party could stay on site. Overall, for any couples looking for an unforgettable, stunningly beautiful, unique, and historic wedding venue close to Edinburgh, we could not recommend Thirlestane Castle highly enough!”
Suppliers
Photographer – Harper Scott
Marquee – Greenfields
Caterer & Florist – Platter & Pop
Hair & Make Up – Lyn McKenzie
Bagpiper – Roddy at Reel Time
Band – Miss Mobile Disco
Food Truck – Mangiamos
Pre-wedding entertainment – Rusty’s Piano Bar
Transport – Lauderdale Coaches & Lothian Wedding Cars
