Elopement – A perfect day in Skye
A few weeks ago we hosted our first elopement ”on the croft” – a magical occasion- a perfect day on Skye in fact! You could argue that the couple were old enough to know better, but they represent a growing band that are opting for a simple, intimate event to make their vows to each other with a bit of a party a few weeks later.
The ceremony was carried out by our good friend, Davina McCluskie – an independent celebrant (www.scottishhighlandweddings.com ) who helps couples to devise their own ceremony.
A local clarsach player created a peaceful moment as Davina helped Roslyn and Peter through a traditional handfasting ceremony (an ancient binding ritual using strips of tartan fabric or woven grasses with each knot representing a vow). Looking out over the sea loch to the hills and sky beyond; standing in a woven willow circle decorated with ivy under an arch created from green barked willow and red barked dogwood, Roslyn and Peter shared mead from a quaich (a Scottish drinking bowl signifying friendship) and made their vows.
As the ceremony finished, a skylark burst into song. (The skylark isn’t guaranteed but magic is)
Local photographer Lynne Kennedy ( http://www.lynnekennedyblog.co.uk/) caught the special moments: Peter throwing his hat through the door of Tigh Dubh by way of “asking the question”; Roslyn’s emergence from the cottage to return the hat signifying acceptance; the ceremony; the wedding breakfast, (a local seafood platter of lobsters and crabs, canapés, champagne and cranachan ( a blend of raspberries, cream, oatmeal and whisky); and of course the send off – wouldn’t you love to head off into the future in a quad bike trailer?
Followed by a photo-shoot which, on this occasion ended with a double rainbow right on cue. As with the skylark we can’t guarantee a rainbow but are confident that there will always be memorable moments!
If you like the idea of your own dream elopement or having a small intimate ceremony “on the croft” either by yourselves, with just a few close friends or family to make your vows, please give us a call; we would love to hear from you. We can guide you through the legalities, introduce you to a celebrant, arrange a musician and suggest photographers. Helen could even give you a relaxing shiatsu massage before the great day. (Alistair is happy to share a dram the night before!)
