Isle of Skye Elopement in Scotland
Scotland has a way of making every wedding feel like a storybook adventure. With its dramatic landscapes, ever-changing weather, and deep-rooted folklore, it's the perfect place for couples who want a wedding experience that feels both intimate and extraordinary. Jo & Mark’s wedding on the Isle of Skye was exactly that—an adventure filled with laughter, a touch of rain, and a whole lot of love. From cozy moments getting ready with friends to an impromptu water fight in the Fairy Pools, their day was a perfect reflection of who they are: fun, spontaneous, and completely in love. See the full story through their photos below...
A Slow Morning at the Bracken Hide Hotel
Their wedding day began at the Bracken Hide Hotel, a charming retreat near the town of Portree, where modern cabins are nestled into the hillside with breathtaking views of the harbor. Sheep roamed freely outside, adding to the peaceful, remote atmosphere.
After a long travel day—and a late-night hangout with the hotel chef and his wife—Jo & Mark got to sleep in before easing into the morning with their closest friends. Jo did her makeup while watching her favorite YouTube artist, and one of her bridesmaids braided her hair as she sat on the floor. The scene felt reminiscent of childhood sleepovers and getting ready for school dances, making for such a sweet and nostalgic moment.
A Rainy Ceremony at the Fairy Pools
For their ceremony, Jo & Mark chose the Fairy Pools, a short drive from Portree, set against the striking backdrop of the Black Cuillin mountains. As is often the case in Scotland, a bit of rain joined us for the occasion, but we were well-prepared with umbrellas and rain jackets. If you're planning a wedding in this country, embracing the elements is part of the experience!
A Note on Flexibility for Elopements
Originally, the plan was to hike into the Fairy Pools for the ceremony, but some of their family members had mobility challenges that made the trek difficult. Instead of leaving them behind, Jo & Mark made the last-minute decision to hold the ceremony near the parking area, ensuring that everyone could be present. It was a small shift that made a big difference—proving that sometimes, the best moments come from being flexible and prioritizing the people who matter most.
Exploring the Fairy Pools
After exchanging vows, many of the guests joined the couple for a short hike to the pools, where we were greeted by the kind of misty, moody skies that make Scotland feel like pure magic.
But just when we thought the gloomy clouds would define the day, the sun broke through in a stunning moment of golden light—just in time for Jo & Mark to take a dip in the water!
A Playful Water Fight to Start Their Marriage
We had passed several travelers soaking in the pools, drawn by the mystical lore of the place, and it felt only right that the newlyweds embrace the moment too. Their version? A playful water fight—because what better way to start a marriage than with pure, unfiltered joy?
A Festival to End the Night
As the day wound down, those who still had energy to spare headed back to their accommodations, changed, and made their way into Portree for a festival to celebrate late into the night.
And as if their wedding adventure wasn’t epic enough, Jo & Mark spent the following days exploring Scotland before jetting off to Iceland to continue their once-in-a-lifetime journey together.
An Elopement Full of Love, Laughter, and Adventure
Their Isle of Skye Elopement wasn’t just about saying “I do”—it was about embracing adventure, rolling with whatever came their way, and celebrating love in a way that felt completely true to them. And really, what could be more memorable than that?
To celebrate afterward, everyone went to the Seumas's Bar in Sligachan for dinner and drinks. However, we did pop outside after dinner for a few pictures on the famous Sliigachan Bridge at sunset. It was a quick moment though because the midges (kind of like mosquitoes with teeth) were devouring us, so if you come to Scotland don't forget to find midge spray when you arrive there!
Ready to begin planning your dream wedding in Scotland?
I'm Carly, a destination wedding and elopement photographer + planning guide who's documented weddings from Hawaii to Scotland. My top priority on elopement days is to help you create an experience, not just deliver great photos. I want to tell your wedding story, share the emotions you felt that day and the fun you shared together, and provide you with memories that you'll love forever. And in addition to photography, I'll also provide:
✓ Location Scouting & Research
✓ Vendor Recommendations
✓ Customized Timeline Building
✓ Activity Recommendations
✓ Assistance with Permits
✓ An exclusive elopement planning guide
If you're ready to take the first step towards your best day ever, fill out the contact form on my site! We'll talk about all of the possibilities, ease your mind of any hesitations you may still have about eloping, and get planning!
