Ian & Tim’s Relaxed Wedding Among the Redwoods at the Royal Botanic Garden Edinburgh
Getting married among actual redwoods? There are worse ways to spend a Saturday. Ian and Tim pulled off the perfect blend of relaxed, intimate and wildly photogenic at the Royal Botanic Garden Edinburgh and I’m still thinking about it.
Getting Ready at Malmaison Leith (Together… and I’m Obsessed)
The day started in the gorgeous suites at Malmaison in Leith, where they got ready together. I will go to my grave saying this is one of my favourite things a couple can do. There’s something so grounding and intimate about sharing those calm, quiet moments before the day kicks off. No rushing between rooms, no nerves separately bubbling away - just two people helping each other get ready for their wedding. Perfection.
We nipped out around The Shore before travelling to the ceremony for some portraits. Starting early meant we could soak up that pre-ceremony excitement without the time pressure, and it gave them the freedom later to actually enjoy their drinks reception instead of spending it taking photos. (Always a win.)
A Ceremony Under the Redwoods
Then it was off to the Royal Botanic Garden Edinburgh, straight to the redwoods - the dreamiest, most atmospheric setting for a ceremony. Their close pals delivered some lovely readings, and the whole thing felt incredibly personal and heartfelt.
Afterwards, everyone spilled out into the sunshine for drinks. It was a beautiful, warm day, people instantly relax, chatter starts buzzing, and you can feel the joy ripple around the space.
Dinner, Golden Hour & A Proper Party
Dinner was in Caledonia Hall, which always has such a lovely atmosphere once everyone settles in. After the meal, we snuck back out into the Gardens for a few extra portraits. By that point all the tourists had disappeared and the light was absolutely chef’s kiss. It was the perfect little breather before the dancefloor chaos kicked off.
And kick off it did. Their band - The Black Ties - knew exactly how to get a party started. It was such a joyful, energetic night with the loveliest people. I genuinely felt so looked after by Ian and Tim (and the venue team) all day. They’re the kind of couple you instantly warm to, and their guests were just the same… I had some cracking chats.
Why I Loved This Wedding
Getting ready together. ALWAYS a yes from me.
Ceremony beneath towering redwoods - iconic.
Pre-ceremony portraits in Leith meant maximum chill during the reception.
Sneaky evening wander through an empty Botanic Garden with perfect light.
A truly kind couple and a properly good party.
Royal Botanic Garden Edinburgh Wedding Suppliers
Photography: @lourobphoto
Preparations: @malmaisonhotels
Venue: @rbgedinburgh & @rbgeevents
Celebrant: @acelebrantcalledali
Music: @theblackties
