We hear about their big day (and Chloe’s big birthday at Finzean Hall) from the father of
the bride himself, Logan Sangster of Deeside Photographics…

Chloe has been a bridesmaid six times in the last few years and always said she didn't want any fuss over her own wedding. She wanted it to be relaxed with only candid photographs – nothing formal. Meanwhile, she’d booked Finzean Hall for her 30th birthday on 17 June with around 90 people on the guest list.

A few weeks later, Steve, who’s very laid back and doesn't like any fuss either, appeared at my office and asked a certain question. My first response was: ‘Steve, have you seen the film Meet The Fockers? I’m worse than
that dad!’

It became apparent there would be a marriage on the horizon and, after a couple of family meetings, they decided on a surprise wedding on the bride’s birthday weekend. They planned to tie the knot surrounded only by their immediate families (which ended up simply beautiful, relaxed and fun for us all) before arriving at Finzean to meet up with the party guests.

I looked for a big house in Deeside that would work for the occasion and came across Glen Dye Cabins and Cottages. It was just a little different – rustic and quirky with a modern twist. There were books and artwork galore, a private bar tucked in an old cottage in the grounds, wood saunas and outdoor baths (where logs underneath keep
them cosy).

The families booked in for three nights and chose the spot for saying ‘I do’ – a nice woodland corner in the foothills of Clachnaben. My wife, Julie, asked on the morning of the wedding what I’d done for the ceremony area… And my answer was: ‘Nothing’! So, we scoured around the place and pulled together wooden benches, mismatched chairs and lanterns to make a simple yet stunning ceremony location. Plus, the weather was warm and sunny, which was superb.

They had a humanist ceremony and Chloe and Steve’s son Logan (Jnr) featured big time – in the Power Rangers suit he insisted on wearing despite the heat! Afterwards, we had drinks in the garden beside the retro caravan hired for the couple’s first night as newlyweds and enjoyed chilled tunes from Coynach Music who played during the ceremony too.

At 4pm they were transported to Finzean (where the hall was closed off with no sign of the rustic wedding reception set-up waiting behind the shutters) and jumped out of the Land Rover, shocking all the guests waiting on the lawn as they caught their first glimpse of Chloe in her gown. It was an amazing moment.

After drinks, nibbles and chat, the shutters opened to reveal a marvellous country celebration created with old-style furniture and florals from our friend Jill. After a rather sumptuous barbecue, a choice of puddings in delicate mason jars and an extensive cheese board, everyone was surprised by the Secret Opera Singers, arranged by Julie and I. The couple and their guests were up on their feet dancing and it really got the party started – along with the fact that Chloe's brothers had gifted the couple a free bar, which meant no expense whatsoever for the guests!

There have been so many comments about how different this wedding was and what a fabulous idea it was. The close family all played a part in creating the perfect day and we loved it – especially as there was not one bit of fuss, just as the
couple requested.

Chloe's Little White Book

Band: The 5th Avenue Band

Bridal outfit: Perfect Bridal Rooms

Cake: GumBlossom

Catering: Country Flavours of Alford

Celebrant: Lesley Yule

Décor: 3 Tiers, Rustic Look Aberdeen

Father-of-the-bride outfit: Georgian Dress Hire

Favours: Love Laura Lane

Flowers: Hays Flowers

Hair: Sheer Perfection (Gemma Taylor, Cheryl McWilliam)

Make-up: Chaotically Beautiful

Musicians: Coynach Music Services, Singing Waiters by SOS, Land & Sea

Photographer: Deeside Photographics

Second shooters: Stuart Johnston, Eni Groner

Stationery: Papeterie Stationery

Tan: Brown Sugar by Sam Milne

Venue: Glen Dye Cabins and Cottages, Finzean Hall

Videographer: Glen Cairn Video Productions