Louise and Ross's snowy winter wedding at Dunglass Estate, East Lothian

Louise and Ross got married at Dunglass Estate on the East Lothian coast, in late November, in a snowstorm. An outdoor ceremony in the estate’s ruined kirk, their dog Jaffa on ring duty, an espresso martini bar, fireworks, and a dance floor that was packed from the first song. If you’re planning a Dunglass Estate wedding, or just love the idea of a Scottish winter wedding, this one is packed with ideas.

A snowy start and a treacherous drive

The day started with a full-blown snowstorm. What should have been an easy one-hour drive to Dunglass Estate took me two and a half hours through snow-covered roads, passing cars that had slid off into ditches. When I arrived, the venue had only a light dusting of snow, but it was enough for a proper winter backdrop.

Inside, the morning was relaxed. Louise got ready in the main house, slipping into an embroidered wedding dress and a floral veil that matched her maroon velvet shoes and red hair. Ross and his groomsmen shared a whisky in the treehouse while reading letters from Louise. Jaffa was already stealing the show, running around and getting ready for her big moment as ring bearer.

An outdoor ceremony in the ruined kirk at Dunglass Estate

Louise and Ross had their ceremony in Dunglass Estate’s ruined kirk, an ancient stone structure that is open to the elements. Even in freezing temperatures, they wanted to say their vows outside. Their guests wrapped up in blankets while their humanist celebrant, rocking a bold yellow velvet jacket, had everyone crying with laughter.

Jaffa delivered the rings in a little leather pouch around her neck. Later on she proudly planted muddy paws on Louise’s dress. It was one of those moments that could have been a disaster, but when your dog is your world, a paw print on your wedding dress is just part of the story.

Confetti outside the kirk

After the ceremony, their guests gathered outside the kirk for a massive confetti moment. Louise and Ross kissed as their friends and family threw confetti into the air. One of my favourite photos of the day.

Owls, a neon sign and an espresso martini bar

Inside the reception, every detail was Louise and Ross. A custom wedding newspaper, travel-themed luggage tag favours, a neon “Till Death Do Us Party” sign, and even an owl experience where guests could hold and take photos with owls.

They had an espresso martini bar and a dance floor that was packed from the moment the music started.

Fireworks in the cold and a last portrait under the fairy lights

I stayed late into the night, because that is when the wild stuff happens. Just when I thought the night couldn’t get better, they announced fireworks. Everyone headed outside into the cold to watch the display before Louise and Ross had a final portrait under the estate’s fairy lights.

Why Dunglass Estate works so well for a winter wedding

If you’re looking for a wedding venue that is both historic and modern, Dunglass Estate is incredible. The ruined kirk is made for an outdoor ceremony with character. The reception space is open and well laid out, so guests feel connected throughout the day. The staff are amazing, the food is always top quality, and I never run out of places to shoot.

If you’re planning a Dunglass Estate wedding and want a photographer who’ll drive through a snowstorm to get there, get in touch.