Destination wedding at Borthwick Castle & Skye, Scotland || From Castles to Cliffs
A Regal Celebration & Highland Adventure
When Katie and Chris set their sights on Scotland for their wedding, they weren’t just looking for a venue—they were searching for a story. Having never been to Scotland before, they felt an immediate connection to its history, rugged beauty, and romance. Their journey led them to the majestic Borthwick Castle, an awe-inspiring fortress that became the backdrop for their emotional humanist ceremony and unforgettable celebration. But their adventure didn't end at the castle gates. Just days later, we ventured with them to the rugged landscapes of Skye, where they embraced the elements and their love in an extraordinary clifftop session at Quiraing.
A Castle Steeped in Romance
From the moment Katie and Chris arrived at Borthwick Castle, the atmosphere was electric. They exchanged heartfelt personal vows in the privacy of the Gatehouse, setting the tone for a day that was both intimate and grand. The Garrison provided an atmospheric setting for their ceremony, enhanced by the presence of a barn owl delivering the rings—a moment that left guests in awe.
Post-ceremony, the festivities moved to the Stateroom for a relaxed drinks reception, followed by a spectacular banquet in the Great Hall, where laughter, speeches, and Scottish traditions filled the air. The evening unfolded into an exhilarating party, with Clanadonia’s rhythmic beats energizing the room and a sword-cutting cake moment paying homage to Scotland’s rich history.
"We always wanted to go to Scotland for our wedding, and Borthwick Castle stood out because of its authenticity—it still feels like a real castle, not a hotel. Plus, fun fact: getting married in a Scottish castle is actually cheaper than an American vineyard." – Katie & Chris
A Wild and Whimsical Love Story
While the castle provided a regal setting, Katie and Chris longed for something wilder to complement their love story. A few days later, we met them on the Isle of Skye, where the weather was nothing short of dramatic—gusting winds, misty rain, and moody skies. Instead of shying away, they leaned into the adventure, embracing the raw beauty of the Quiraing cliffs.
Given the remote location and the absence of a photographer for this part of their journey, we captured both video and stills—an approach we now offer for adventurous couples. The result? A collection of unforgettable visuals that truly reflect the wild, untamed spirit of their love.
"We knew the adventure session would make our wedding even more memorable and unique. Cinemate's ability to create an epic, cinematic feel was exactly what we wanted."
A Proposal Beneath the Waves
Katie and Chris’s story began with an unforgettable underwater proposal in the Bahamas. Chris planned a scuba diving trip, leading Katie to believe they’d be exploring a shipwreck. However, as they checked in, the dive shop handed them a shark dive waiver—and Katie quickly realised they’d be swimming in shark-infested waters.
Amidst the swirling marine life, Chris got down on one knee on a sunken shipwreck, ring in hand—a daring and breathtaking proposal that perfectly set the tone for their adventurous love story.
Capturing the Magic: A Cinematic Dream
Katie and Chris epitomise the couples we love to work with—bold, deeply connected, and eager to create something timeless. They weren’t just after a wedding film; they wanted a visual experience that encapsulated every emotion—from the grandeur of their castle celebration to the untamed romance of the Highlands.
This fusion of luxury and adventure is what makes Scottish weddings so unique, and it’s exactly what we live to capture.
Behind the Scenes: The Dream Team
A wedding of this scale comes together with the expertise of incredible suppliers:
Venue: Borthwick Castle
Celebrant: Graham Duff
Florist: Roseparks
Hair & Makeup: AMM Team
Photographer: James Frost
Cake: 3D Cakes
Band: Clanadonia
DJ: Lee Live
Bagpiper: Bagpipers Online
Ring Bearer: A majestic barn owl
Dress: Martina Liana via Elegance by Roya
Suit: Calvin Klein
What story will your dress tell?
For Couples Seeking Both Luxury & Adventure
If you’re drawn to the idea of a historic Scottish castle wedding, an intimate humanist ceremony, and an untamed adventure session, then we’d love to hear your story. At Cinemate, we craft films that are more than just memories—they’re emotional time capsules, rich with the essence of your love and the landscapes that frame it.
Ready to turn your vision into a cinematic masterpiece?
Get in touch to start planning your unforgettable wedding film experience.
