Bohemian Scottish Vow Renewal in Glen Coe: Michelle + Gabe
I met Gabe and Michelle at a workshop I recently went to in Scotland, while living in Oxford. They just happened to be traveling through Ireland and the UK for their 5 year wedding anniversary and vow renewal, and ended up coming to model for our elopement shoots! Gabe happens to be a super rad wedding photographer in San Diego, and together he and Michelle have two freaking CUTE kids. What better way to celebrate 5 years together than dressing up in a stunning Daughters of Simone wedding dress, and running through the Scottish Highlands with your love?
Eloping in Glen Coe, Scotland
The second day, we drove out to Glen Coe—possibly the most beautiful valley I’ve ever placed my feet in—and geared up for the elopement shoots. It was absolute magic, but insanely cold, windy and rainy. If you’re planning an elopement or vow renewal in Scotland, and weather is important to you, your best months are going to be July through September. Although it’ll likely still be cool, you’re more likely to have sunshine and milder weather. Since we were there in February, it dramatically went from extremely windy and raining one minute, to freezing cold and snowing the next. Because the weather is so temperamental, you’ll also want to make sure that you have layers and rain gear as options!
When it came to choosing a location for the elopement, Glen Coe was amazing because of the close access to easy shooting points from the parking lot. When you arrive at Glen Coe, there is a parking lot to your left that sits high up above the entry trails. (this is nice because you can shoot from each direction and not worry about cars in the background!) You only have to hike for a few minutes to find a multitude of shooting locations, and each point has plenty of room if you’re holding an intimate wedding ceremony with a small number of guests accompanying. If you have older guests with limited mobility, there are easier and less steep trails that they can take.
Styling Details
The details in this shoot just added to the beauty of the surroundings. From Michelle wearing the perfect boho Daughters of Simone gown for a windy day, to the stunning florals by AK Weddings, the organic joy of the day was amplified.
If you’re thinking about adventuring or eloping in Scotland, 100% do it. You won’t regret it. I might even join you ;)
