Luss – you are beautiful.

Every minute I was there, I soaked in as much I could. Set on the Banks of Loch Lomond, Luss is picture perfect but it wasn’t until I took a little tour over the three days with the Loch Lomond Arms team and those who were also part of the trip, did I realise the exact ginormous scale of the location, and also the endless possibilities in creating a bespoke wedding by the loch. And I do mean endless!

On day two we took a stroll to the pier to board the vessel which would then take us on a two hour boat ride along the loch. The islands were stunning and despite the morning being a little misty, it was beautifully eerie. I could instantly visualise the most wonderful wedding photos with this backdrop. Whether on boat or on one of the islands. Yes, you can have your wedding reception right here – wouldn’t that just be a dream.

Luss is also a haven for wildlife and is home to birds of prey, including a nesting pair of golden eagles and a nesting pair of ospreys, along with black grouse, otters, pine martin, fallow, roe and red deer.

I certainly wrapped up warm for our morning cruise… but despite the trip taking place at the very end of October, it wasn’t as cold as I had expected for Scotland!

The view towards Slate Quays, where couples could host a marquee or tipi reception. The backdrop is just everything. Your event could be planned to exactly how you wish, and with the possibility of arranging a boat cruise for you and your guests. What a gorgeous event that would be.

One of my favourite activities from the planned trip has to be the Scottish Highland Picnic. We took a short drive up to the highlands and was greeted by a well thought out and perfectly designed open marquee tent. The dining tables laid with beautiful flowers and rustic touches – soon after our arrival, we were served a picnic. Not just any picnic – the food by the Loch Lomond Arms Hotel was delicious, including Luss’ very own smoked salmon – one you must try!

It was eleven o’clock in the morning and the views across Loch Lomond was still misty but during the two hours we were on the highlands, this soon cleared and the scene was incredible!

Whilst what felt like I was perched on top of the world, soaking in the beautiful location and wonderful hospitality, my mind was going crazy with rehearsal dinner or the-day-after brunch ideas!

Following our rather fabulous picnic, we were whisked off to The Carrick Spa – wow, what a way to warm up!

A truly five star experience in relaxation. Perfect. A tremendous spot to completely wind down with fantastic service and facilities.

Friday evening dinner was arranged but first, we were treated to pre-dinner drinks at the beautiful Camstradden House. Today, still a private home to the Colquhoun family, it was an absolute honour and joy to have had the opportunity to meet the family and owners of Luss Estate.

The reception… romantic and beautiful

If there is one thing my clients want the most from their wedding, aside from being with their family and friends, along with good atmosphere, this would be amazing food.

The tasting menu served in the Library at the Loch Lomond Arms Hotel was put simply, mouth-watering and extremely well presented. Every member of the party that very evening commented how amazing it was and I can honestly say, should you dine or arrange for an event with the team, you will be far from disappointed.

Each course carefully thought out and served.

Post dinner drinks were served in one of the gorgeous Red Kite Yurts! So sweet, cosy and a perfect end to a wonderful day!

I look forward to sharing more on my trip very soon but in the meantime, I do hope that if you are still looking for a great location for your wedding, take a good look and perhaps visit Luss; the choice and possibilties can be bespoke to you and your day. This is what I love about Luss and the Loch Lomond Arms team; nothing is too much and their open-mind on what they can create in and around the estate is very refreshing.

xo

To find out more on weddings, events and visiting Luss, do head on over to the Luss Estate website

The very first time I visited Luss was back in two thousand and eleven. I remember the trip like it was only yesterday – Christmas was soon approaching, there was a beautiful chill in the air and I remember the short walk from our cottage into Luss. We ended up in a local cafe, sitting by the warm fire and enjoying a hot chocolate with my husband Paul and our young pup!

At the time, I was venue sourcing for my clients and I remember saying to Paul ‘One day we must come back’.

Fast forward five years, I was back to discover more of what Luss has to offer brides & grooms, and now as Mami to two little ones, what it has to offer families. Our pooch came along again too!

Heading north from Derbyshire, after seven hours on the road {with a good break at Tebay/ Westmoreland in the Lake District for the little people – one of my favourite service stations in the country!!} we finally arrived at our lovely cottage on the Thursday evening. The River Cottage is a cosy two bedroom, two bathroom property, which was absolutely perfect for my family and I. Located next to the river and literally a five minute walk from The Loch Lomond Arms Hotel. It’s surrounded by gorgeous views and is exceptionally private and quiet – away from all the hustle and bustle of our everyday life. This was perfect.

The following morning we headed to the hotel for a much needed breakfast and the rest of the day was spent exploring the village and taking a stroll to Luss Pier. The views are stunning – exactly how I remembered but already I sensed that the area has had some major improvement to when we first visited.

Every corner you turn you are greeted by picturesque views and the prettiest cottages

I am certainly one for browsing in lovely local stores! The General Store is located right in the heart of Luss village. From the most gorgeous home ornaments to local Scottish shortbread, it’s most definitely worth spending a little time here

Although I am sure summer must bring a completely different look and feel but there is something so wonderful about wrapping ourselves up in big thick coats, warm hats and wooly scarves, then listening to every step my daughter made through the fallen autumn leaves.

The Loch Lomond Arms Hotel – an inviting and warm place to put our feet up for the rest of the afternoon. I love the cosiness and stylish interiors it has to offer in their relaxing bar & restaurant. We decided dessert was exactly what we needed. And after the breakfast we had that morning, we knew the standard of meals served would be just as delicious. I wasn’t wrong!

By now, evening was soon approaching so a gentle walk back to our cottage to settle the children and for Paul and I to relax for the rest of our wonderful first day.

If you would like to visit Luss and have any questions at all about our experience staying with little people, feel free to ask away! I am more than happy to share my experience with you.

Soon I’ll be sharing more on my trip to Luss and what some of the amazing bespoke options the team at Loch Lomond Arms Hotel can put together for wedding and events.

Come back very soon for more on this! xo

Lydia & James’ wedding published in VOGUE Brides – Australia 2016 Edition

A stunning six page spread of their Jewish-Scottish celebration, and I couldn’t be more grateful and delighted for the couple, their families and the wedding team whom I had great joy in working alongside.

Born a week early, he sure did surprise Paul and I with both his quick arrival and throughout my pregnancy I thought I was having another girl. It’s been a whirlwind over the last two months – with weddings I had already committed to prior to finding out I was expecting and the many wonderful enquiries I have been receiving.

In between the feeds and nappy changes I am still taking on work for 2017 – my heart just doesn’t allow me to say goodbye to my love for weddings! But while I continue to attempt my very best at balancing work and home, I really feel I am at my most content {as busy as some days may be} – life at home feels complete and I am still creating beautiful days wherever the love takes me.

And while each day passes by so, so fast, I will always be forever grateful to Coral & Stone Photography for capturing so many precious moments of my family during the last few years, like the one of Max above when he was just eight days young.

xoxo