Stephanie and Ross first locked eyes in 2013 at a cookout hosted by a mutual friend. Stephanie was in town visiting her parents in between moving from Chicago to Austin - little did she know, she would never make it to Austin! She had fallen in love with the long-haired scotsman she had met that day. A few weeks after meeting Ross received news that his job was moving him to Indianapolis. Only knowing each other for about six months, the two took a chance on love and moved across the country together and haven't looked back a day since.
With family all the way from Scotland, Stephanie and Ross celebrated their big day blending elements of a traditional Scottish wedding, along with Stephanie's southern roots and design.
Day of styling and set up was done by Stephanie and her “amazing tribe of girlfriends.” She told us; “The day absolutely could not have happened without them!” This crafty couple made their day one to remember by adding a personal touch to their decor.
Stephanie designed all the signage herself and used thrifted frames, along with beautiful thrifted candlesticks to set the mood. Ross built the bar used at the reception and the “Giant Jenga” yard game by hand. Another special touch was the ceremony pieces made by Stephanie's mother. She stitched together her daughters “something blue” handkerchief, the tartan flowers in the bouquets, and the ring bearer's, as well as Sammy the dog's, bowties.
To honor Ross’ Scottish heritage, the groom and his men wore the traditional Kilt down the aisle while Stephanie stunned in her romantic custom altered dress
The ceremony was held at our tree lined arbor. On that gorgeous September day everything was still lush and green, creating the perfect atmosphere for the intimate ceremony.
The bride was led down the aisle by Paul Robeson, a professional bagpiper.
The couple engaged in a handfasting ceremony before saying their vows. This was a very special handfasting blessing because the three bands that were used were representative of the bride and groom - a piece from the bride’s mother's wedding veil, signifying her past, a strip of the groom’s tartan, signifying his past, and a ribbon cut from their wedding décor, signifying their future.
The ceremony was officiated by one of Stephanie's childhood best friends.
Stephanie says; “Saying those vows surrounded by friends and family was unforgettable. No matter what happens on your day, remember that that moment is all that matters.”
After saying "I Do," the party moved to the barn for dinner and dancing. Music was provided by All Out DJ. Drinks were provided by Ross' own brewery, The Angry Scotsman. These tasty brews, along with sips from the scotch and whiskey bar, were served from personalized glassware that doubled as place setting tags and party favors.
Stephanie gives some vendor love by saying:
“We LOVED working with our photographer, Katie Hadley! She was so responsive and easy-going, and the photos turned out more beautiful than we could have imagined. Our bagpiper, Paul, and our DJ were also spectacular!”
And lastly, Stephanie's piece of advice to future bride’s is:
“Everything doesn't have to look like what you see online. Get a few ideas from online and then stop looking. Keep it simple, make the day yours—not someone else's—ask for help when you need it, and then just roll with it. Literally the only thing that matters is that you finish the day married. Comparison is truly the thief of joy.”
We wish the two of you the happiest ever after!
VENDORS
photography | Katie Hadley Photography
entertainment | All Out DJ
bar | The Angry Scotsman
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