Kate + Alex's outdoor island wedding on Arran

Having holidayed on Arran for many years with her parents owning a holiday cottage there, getting married on the island was an obvious choice for Kate. Bravely they made the decision to do the ceremony outside and whilst England was enjoying the jubilee in torrential rain and wind, Arran awoke to calm seas (thankfully as I was on the first morning ferry - the ferry takes 30 minutes from Ardrossan) and sunshine breaking through.  I was blown away when I saw the location for the ceremony - the walled garden sits at the foot of Brodick Castle which is perched on the hillside overlooking the sea.  steeply sloped a pathway ran from the castle down through the garden to the foot of the hill where a stone circle with rambling roses surrounded a sundial.

Kate arrived and was led by her father for the long walk through the gardens watched all the way by Alex (secretly praying she wouldn't trip on the steep path!)  It was a stunning site and by far the most dramatic entrance I've seen at a wedding.  The ceremony took place within the circle with the guests standing in a tight circle which made the whole ceremony feel incredibly intimate.

After the ceremony they had afternoon tea and champagne on the lawn then headed back to Auchrannie House Hotel for the reception.

Kate and her bridesmaids got ready at Orwin Cottage and Alex got ready at Rowanbank Cottage.  I stayed at The Glenartney guesthouse on Arran and Burnfoot House in Ardrossan the night before.

You can view the whole gallery here.  Password is Guinan.