Fast forward five years, and the couple were enjoying their very first Christmas in their new flat. Justine was bustling about preparing for guests, apron on, in full hostess mode, when she spotted James on the floor. Her first thought was that he’d dropped something. In reality, he was waiting on one knee with a ring in hand, a record playing softly in the background, and a steaming mug of tea on the table. Sweet, intimate and beautifully ordinary - it was the kind of moment that felt absolutely “them”.

With 18 months until their chosen June date, Justine admits she wasted no time. “The day after the proposal, I was already making lists,” she laughs. But their planning wasn’t just about logistics - it was about priorities.

“We had three non-negotiables,” James adds. “Great food, a venue with character and the chance to dance until the early hours. Everything else we were happy to compromise on.”

Mar Lodge captured their hearts instantly. Nestled in the Cairngorms, it offered history, beauty, accommodation for half their guests, and the freedom to bring in caterers of their choice. Add the promise of a full weekend together with family and friends, and the decision was made.

They then set about carefully hand-picking suppliers who resonated with them personally. From Coo Hill Studio’s seasonal wildflowers to J Dyer Photography’s creative eye, every booking felt intentional. “So many of our suppliers were passionate, independent professionals - many of them women,” Justine notes. “It felt important to us to work with people who cared deeply about what they do.”

The Bride: Dress shopping meant 25+ gowns across a whirlwind weekend, but Justine found her dream look at Grace Loves Lace. The mermaid silhouette was a nod to modern elegance, while the bodice design echoed her mum’s original gown - a subtle tribute that felt deeply meaningful. She paired it with an embroidered veil, pearl jewellery from Lily & Roo and practical block heels. With alterations by Alterations Boutique Chelsea, the dress became a perfect fit for her petite frame.

The Groom: James knew a kilt was the way forward, but he also wanted something unique. Together with Kinloch Anderson, he designed a brand-new Lahaise tartan, inspired by Black Watch but adapted to honour his Belgian and English heritage while also honouring his Scottish roots. It was both traditional and completely personal.

The Squad: Justine had three bridesmaids, her closest friends, who chose dresses in different shades of green. Each wore a different cut, creating a harmonious but not-too-matchy look that complemented the natural Scottish setting.

The weekend began with a Friday night dinner for on-site guests, creating a relaxed, convivial atmosphere before the main event.

Saturday morning brought two very different starts: Justine, surrounded by her mum, sisters and bridesmaids, sipping champagne while having her hair and makeup done; and James, braving a freezing river dip with his groomsmen before raising a dram in the billiards room.

The ceremony took place in Mar Lodge’s grand foyer, with its sweeping staircase and rich wooden panelling. Justine’s entrance down the staircase with her dad was nothing short of cinematic. The Aberdeenshire registrar guided them through their vows, while speeches from siblings and close friends added both humour and emotion. A Celtic knot ritual tied together their Scottish setting with a personal touch.

Afterwards, guests enjoyed champagne, canapés and photos, before dinner was served in the stag ballroom. The couple chose to skip starters in favour of hearty mains: locally sourced venison and trout from Barbarella Beets. “We wanted to showcase Scottish produce,” says Justine.

Speeches followed, with both family and friends contributing. Each was heartfelt, funny and tear-inducing in equal measure. “We were running an hour behind after chatting to every table,” Justine admits, “but it was worth it - our guests really appreciated that personal time.”

As evening fell, the first dance to A Hidden Life’s theme music set the tone for the party. Their DJ, proudly billed as “the anti-wedding wedding DJ”, had the dancefloor full from the first track to the last. “James has never danced like that before,” laughs Justine. “Everyone said it was the best party they’d
been to.”

Looking back, the couple struggle to choose one highlight. “The ceremony, the speeches, the dancing - honestly, every part could have been the highlight,” says James.

We asked Justine and James what they’d tell other couples planning their own big day.
"We’d say don’t sweat the small stuff, it’s the moments with your favourite people that matter most. Trust your suppliers; we chose local names we already loved and they made everything so easy. Take five minutes away from the crowd just the two of you – we slipped out onto the steps at Mar Lodge to watch the sun go down, and it’s a memory we’ll always treasure. And finally, make the day about you as a couple, those personal touches are what everyone remembers.'

After a minimoon on Loch Fyne - spa sessions, seafood feasts and peaceful walks - they’re now planning a New Zealand honeymoon for winter 2026/27.

As Justine sums up: “It truly felt like the best day of our lives, full of love, laughter and everything we hoped for.”

Justine's Little White Book

Dress & Veil: Grace Loves Lace

Alterations: Alterations Boutique Chelsea

Accessories: Lily & Roo

Cake: Lana Lou Cake Studio

Flowers: Coo Hill Studio

Food: Barbarella Beets

Next-Day Feast: Spitting Pig Company

Drinks: Majestic, Schiehallion

Groom’s Outfit: Kinloch Anderson

Photographer: J Dyer Photography

Piper: Friend Sean

Rings: The Third Aye

Stationery: Elise Ogier (design) Print.Work (print)

Favours: Adelphi whisky, Friars sugared almonds

Venue: Mar Lodge Estate