this was always going to be a party (with bright green heels)
From the second I arrived at Banchory Lodge I knew this wasn’t going to be one of those slow-burn weddings where everyone politely warms up over a few glasses of fizz. This was full-on party mode right from the off.
Upstairs at bridal prep, Lyndsey was in the middle of it all with her pals and family, music turned up, glasses clinking, and kids already dancing about the place. Her green heels were sitting waiting – probably the best pair of wedding shoes I’ve seen in a long time, and a pretty clear sign that this wasn’t going to be a quiet affair. The wee girls had basically started the dancefloor in the middle of the room while hair and make-up were going on around them.
I've heard of a nip and a half but...
I popped down to see Grant who was with his dad and groomsmen. They’d just started toasting the day with a “wee dram”. Worth saying his dad’s version of “wee” was not what you’d call a sensible single measure – more the kind of slosh that could easily see you through until the speeches. Everyone was already in great spirits, plenty of laughs, and that carried right on through the rest of the day.
vows, giggles & happy tears
The ceremony itself was brilliant – full of warmth, proper belly laughs, and just the right amount of emotion. You could tell nobody was trying to keep things overly serious; it was genuine, heartfelt, and fun. Those are always my favourite ceremonies to photograph – when people are themselves, not worried about keeping straight faces or standing just so. There were moments of side-eye, a few smirks, and plenty of smiles, which set the tone perfectly for the rest of the day.
posed? no.
perfect? aye.
Once the vows were done we headed out for group shots and some time by the river for couple photos. Banchory Lodge is perfect for this – that stretch of water, the trees, and a bit of late-summer light coming through. Couldn’t ask for better really. Everyone was brilliant, loads of fun, no fussing, just enjoying the moment.
Roasts and toasts
The speeches were another highlight. Lyndsey’s dad, Grant, and best man Reece all struck that balance of funny and heartfelt. Proper belly laughs one minute, lump in the throat the next. It really came across how close this group of people are, and how much they look out for each other. Weddings like this are brilliant to photograph because the emotion just sits right on the surface – you don’t have to go hunting for it, it’s there all day.
acoustic interlude & lawn boogie
After the meal, the party spilled back outside onto the lawn where two lads with guitars kept everyone entertained. Folk were up dancing on the grass, drinks in hand, sun still out – it had a real festival feel with so many great candid moments.
sax & the city
Then it was into the evening reception where the energy cranked up another level. First dance was beautiful and emotional, then the DJ took over and had the floor bouncing straight away. Just when everyone thought they knew what the night had in store, a sax player burst in and the place went absolutely wild. Easily one of the busiest dancefloors I’ve seen in ages – wall-to-wall people, arms in the air, grins everywhere.
feet sore, hearts full
From start to finish, Lyndsey and Grant’s day was all about joy, colour, and having the best time with the people they love most. I left with a memory card full of laughs, hugs, dodgy dance moves, and the occasional classy pose by the river. A wedding that properly sums up what Banchory Lodge does best – stunning setting, brilliant people, and a dancefloor that doesn’t quit.
Planning a wedding at Banchory Lodge? Looking for a photographer that captures you enjoying your day as it is, not as they dictate it?