Photo of Andrew & Callum after they're married, taken in the grounds of Enterkine House

Real wedding: Love is love…

Love is love in the heart of Ayrshire

As strong supporters of local businesses, it was a no-brainer that Andrew and Callum would choose to get married at a venue local to them. They were both wowed by the recently built oak-framed glass pavilion at Enterkine Country House, with its stunning setting and picturesque views over the River Ayr.

Signage at the entrance to Enterkine Country House

A view of the Ayrshire countryside in the grounds of Enterkine House

When and how did you two meet?

We first met through online dating site ‘Plenty of Fish’ back in 2015 and, ironically, we had an immediate connection over our dislike of online dating! After enjoying frequent chats and Facetimes, we finally agreed to meet up in Glasgow city centre in the August of that year. Our first date was for afternoon tea at the Cup Tea Lounge.

When and how did the proposal happen?

We both love South Queensferry – it is our favourite special place to visit. We often pop into the Orocco Pier Hotel for dinner, and sometimes also have a wee overnight stay. So it was the perfect place for Callum to propose.

On 10th July 2021, after enjoying a lovely meal, we went for a walk down the pier overlooking the Forth bridges. Callum played a video on his phone, which he had created, with photos of all of our adventures and some of our favourite music too. Callum then asked the all-important question and, before my legs gave way, I [Andrew] said yes!

What was your favourite part of the wedding planning?

We often say that the planning was just as much fun as the wedding day itself. We absolutely loved it! All of our suppliers were utterly fabulous and we loved getting to know them and chatting to them (lots!) during the year leading up to the wedding. From the excitement of seeing our wedding suits for the first time to choosing our wedding cake flavours – it was all so special.

Why did you want a humanist ceremony?

Neither of us follow any religion. We strongly believe that everyone should be treated with respect and kindness, so a humanist ceremony was perfect for us.

Which celebrant did you choose and why?

Maureen Kettle came highly recommended by a friend who had worked with her in the past. We didn’t consider anyone else and we were not disappointed! Maureen is such a special person and we felt honoured that she was the one to marry us. She kept us right, calmed us down, made us laugh and made us cry (happy tears). She is simply fabulous and we miss her!

Andrew & Callum pictured either side of celebrant Maureen Kettle

What was your favourite part of the ceremony?

We loved the moment when Maureen announced us as husband and husband because, when we turned and raised our hands to our friends and family, they were all whooping and cheering so loudly! It was such a special moment – one that we will cherish forever.

Andrew & Callum holding up their handfasting materials after tying the knot

What was your favourite part of the whole day?

All of it! How could we possibly pick?!

Your photographs are absolutely fabulous. Who did you choose and why?

We wanted a laid back photographer who wasn’t ‘in your face’; someone who would take natural photographs of us and our guests, rather than your traditional ‘posed for‘ wedding pictures. Archibald Photography came highly recommended and he didn’t disappoint.

Mark got the brief spot on and was wonderful on the day. We really enjoyed the time spent with him and had a good blether. His photography captured our wedding day perfectly – telling the story from start to finish.

With hindsight, is there anything that you would have done differently?

For the day to go slower!

And finally, any advice for other couples?

Enjoy every minute! Plan your wedding for you, not for anyone else. Invite who you want to invite, and do what you want to do. Throw the rule book out the window and break tradition if you fancy it. And have plenty of hankies! We didn’t think we’d be half as emotional as we were. Thank goodness for our mums who were always on hand with a hanky!