October in Scotland is one of the dreamiest times to elope here – and let me share with you one of our favourite elopements we’ve ever photographed. This one was extra special, not just because it was October and the leaves were turning and we were on the beautiful bank of Loch Tay, but also because this was my good friend Caitlin’s special day. We were so excited / nervous to capture Caitlin & Ste’s elopement as Caitlin is also a super talented elopement photographer herself. We had the most fun day celebrating Caitlin & Ste with their daughter and intimate group of friends.

Elopement Morning on Loch Tay

Caitlin & Ste eloped at an airbnb on the banks of loch tay with it’s own private access to the loch, ensuring tranquility & epic views. The day began so relaxed with tea, toast and reading some lovely cards for loved ones. Everyone was still in their Pjs. As time ticked on everyone went into their rooms to get dressed with lots of excitement in the air.

A Family First Look

One very important guest at this Loch Tay Elopement was Caitlin & Ste’s daughter. She is absolutely adored by her parents and was included in every step of the day, including the first look where she got to see her mum as a bride for the very first time.

Loch Tay Elopement Ceremony

Just steps away from their Airbnb, Caitlin & Ste’s friends set up their. pumpkin themed ceremony space overlooking Loch Tay. Their ceremony was held by Ronit Quayle, a humanist celebrant who led a romantic and emotional ceremony celebrating the life Caitlin & Ste have shared so far from their first texts to what their daughter has brought to their lives. Caitlin read a poem and they both shared vows. All sealed with a handfasting and a kiss.

Breaking Tradition with Your Elopement

One of our favourite parts of Caitlin & Ste’s ceremony was their decision to put their own rings on. They broke with tradition to emphasise that this decision to marry and to wear rings was their own choice. A choice that they will continue to make each and every day.

Celebrations

The ceremony was followed by some lighthearted fun, cake and confetti. Turns out, C&S have very handy friends with excellent bartending skills to shake everyone up some margaritas.

Caitlin and Ste also took a moment to enjoy some time playing with their daughter, reconnecting as a family after their commitment and of course throwing rocks into the loch.

Finlarig Castle

Looking forward to some time alone to let everything sink in, Caitlin & Ste visited Finlarig Castle. These ruins are a gorgeous spot to include in your Loch Tay Elopement. After you park up, you need to make your way through some trees before you emerge at this epic castle ruin. Surrounded by trees, moss and ivy it makes for a really romantic spot. Even more so in autumn with the beautiful golden colours.

Chasing the Sunset

A common theme with elopements is ending up in places you never expected. After we hopped in the car to leave Finlarig Castle we passed the most incredibly still Loch with a really beautiful sunset. Caitlin & Ste being an adventurous and serendipitous couple we’re more than keen to stop and explore and admire the view.

As photographers, nothing gets us more excited than a still Loch in sunset. This only happens when the wind is less strong which as you can imagine in Scotland, isn’t super often!

The Falls of Falloch

And finally we reach the last adventure of Caitlin & Ste’s elopement – they crammed so much into just one day. They made time for their friends, their daughter, but most importantly, for themselves and doing the things they enjoy like spending time alone in Scotland’s stunning scenery.

Our time at the falls was lit by moonlight and lanterns the sun set on Caitlin and Ste’s Loch Tay elopement. They spent the last of the evening listening to the waterfall and looking back on not just their elopement, but their life together and getting excited about all their plans for the future.

If you’re dreaming of your own Scottish Elopement, read our guide to eloping in 2024 guide.